John Watson to install UK’s first Gallus RCS 330 offset combination press

Glasgow, Scotland-based label printer John Watson and Co has purchased the UK’s first Gallus RCS 330 offset combination press. The ten-unit press, which will also be the longest of its kind in the UK, will enable John Watson to produce self-adhesive labels for its customers in the spirits industry. The machine will be delivered in early December 2010. 

‘We predominantly print for the Scottish whisky industry, which traditionally has meant wet labels,’ said Robert McLachlan, joint managing director at John Watson. ‘However, pressure sensitive labels are becoming easier to apply and can have much more intricate designs. A few of our clients’ major brands are being redeveloped and want to move over to this process for these reasons. By investing in the Gallus RCS 330 press we will be able to support them and can also offer PSL capability to new customers.’

The Gallus offset combination press will join the company’s B2 15-unit sheetfed Heidelberg press,  said to be the longest of its kind in the world, allowing John Watson to supply both wet glue and self-adhesive processes. 

‘In today’s market it is important to be able to offer customers as many options as possible, so we need to be capable of both processes in order to be in business for tomorrow,’ continued McLachlan. ‘We believe Gallus to have the best technology but beyond that we wanted a solid partnership. We are going from a standing start so training, technical support and back-up is critical.’ 

Pictured: the John Watson team mainly serves the Scottish whisky market

Click here for more stories about Gallus on L&L.com.