Benson completes first print run on new Heidelberg XL 106

The project for retailer Marks & Spencer (M&S) involved producing specially developed cartons for Posh Profiteroles, part of the M&S Valentine’s Day dine-in meal deal.

The carton features four process colors and two M&S specialist low migration inks supplied by Stelhin Hostag. All over matte varnish, highlighted with spot gloss varnish, achieves a high-end, tactile effect. 

The printing was completed on the 8-color press, which was purchased last year and represents Benson Group’s biggest ever investment in a single press.

Bobst machinery was used for cutting and gluing, with a Kohhman machine used to patch the poly window.

Andrew Pybus, general manager of Benson Group’s sites in the North East, said: ‘Printed packaging continues to grow in its complexity and our customers seek to gain the maximum marketing potential from their cartons.

‘The arrival of this press as part of our portfolio of equipment in the North East has not only helped us produce more printed sheets than ever before but also to develop new and innovative print effects.’

Josephine Morgan, Benson Group retail director, who was onsite with a representative from M&S as the sheets rolled off the press, said ‘We are delighted to have our newest Heidelberg up and running. We’re particularly pleased that we’ve been able to demonstrate the impressive capabilities to one of our key retail partners during a visit to our Gateshead site.

‘This investment is proof of our ongoing commitment to supplying cutting-edge packaging to our existing customer base and we look forward to the opportunities it will bring in new food, beverage and personal care market areas.’