With demand continuing to grow and expectations around quality and turnaround times increasing, we’re constantly reviewing and improving our production capabilities. To support that, we’re continuing to invest in both equipment and factory space.
That investment includes the installation of a new Ricoh VC80000 continuous feed inkjet press alongside a new Hunkeler and Horizon finishing line, helping speed up production of stapled brochures with automated cutting, cover inserting and stitching as part of a £2m upgrade.
We’re also preparing to break ground on a brand new production site that will create space for additional manufacturing capacity.
In this new behind-the-scenes video, Solopress CEO Simon Cooper discusses the latest investment in production technology, the thinking behind Site Five and what the changes mean for customers.
Expanding production capability
The latest addition to the Solopress production floor is the Ricoh VC80000, a high-speed inkjet press selected for its combination of print quality, productivity and efficiency.
This follows Solopress’ earlier move into inkjet technology in 2020, which significantly increased output while maintaining consistently high print standards.
The VC80000 adds further capacity while helping jobs move through production faster and with fewer bottlenecks.
The installation also includes new Hunkeler finishing equipment capable of converting printed rolls into stitched brochures in a single process. By reducing handling stages, the system helps improve turnaround times and production efficiency on brochure work.
What this means for customers
Investment in production technology is not simply about adding machinery. It directly affects turnaround times, reliability and the ability to keep pace with growing demand.
As Simon explains in the video, “The more productive we are, the faster we can produce work, maintain quality and keep costs competitive for customers.”
Greater efficiency allows more work to move through production without compromising quality, while additional capacity helps maintain service levels during busy periods and creates more flexibility for future growth.
Looking ahead to Site Five
Alongside new production equipment, Solopress has secured planning permission for a fifth production facility. The expansion will create additional space for future machinery, increased production and continued growth across the business. Work on the new site is expected to begin soon, with completion planned for late 2026 or early 2027.
English