However, the hardware is only part of the investment programme.  Hawthornes’ business strategy centres on being able to “add value” for its customers and when evaluating marketplace for the new press Managing Director, Gary Kenning explained that “We were looking for a supplier-partner who could do the same for our business.  This isn’t just about buying a press, it’s ensuring that our staff are fully trained and empowered to take advantage of all the new technological developments – and then use this knowledge to give us a competitive advantage – in a very crowded marketplace. We chose Heidelberg as our partner as we believe they are uniquely placed to meet these demands.”

 

This new innovative partnership involves the calibration and management of Hawthornes colour processes – with Image control being the hub. Production Director, Kevin Thompson, is working with Heidelberg technicians and explains “We are working with Heidelberg to ensure that we are operating to the very highest industry standards and they will be coming in at regular intervals to help us maintain best practice throughout all colour management processes”. 

 

Hawthornes has already enjoyed considerable success in winning new business at the high end of the quality colour market by using special processes to give customers better image detail and clarity than conventionally printed jobs.  Sales Director, Paul Hackett explained the potential of this partnership with Heidelberg. “We specialise in colour critical markets where the clients’ images help sell the product – whether this is a niche holiday, jewellery or a home interiors product.  With an integrated approach to managing our colour and regular access to Heidelberg’s technicians we are well positioned to offer our customers something really special in terms of colour vibrancy and consistency. We now have both the market position and the production capacity to continue our growth from £7m to £10m.”

 

The additional equipment enhances Hawthornes’ existing equipment profile which includes full in house digital repro, two B1 8 colour printing presses both linked to Image Control and cutstar - a paper saving attachment to the presses, as well as full finishing facilities. Added value services such as design, Digital Asset Management along with storage, pick and pack and distribution are operated alongside the core print business. The operation works 24 hours a day and holds both the ISO Quality and ISO Environmental accreditations.