UK converter Craig & Parsons installs fourth Edale Beta

UK-based converter Craig & Parsons has installed its fourth Edale Beta flexo press.

The company, based in Folkestone, Kent, was established in 1945 by Cyril and Win Craig, initially as a wholesale chemist. Their son Nigel set up the labeling division in 1970 to produce labels for the chemist’s bottles. Today, the company continues to be run as a family business and counts on three generations of experience.

Stephen Craig, production manager of Craig & Parsons, said: ‘We purchased our first Edale in 1999 and this new press will be our fourth Edale Beta 330. This is the first press that we have opted for water-based and UV drying because we are producing more long run printed labels. We have already seen a dramatic increase in our productivity due to the decrease in down time in wash ups and cleaning of plates on the run. We find the Beta a great press because of its ability to be adapted and modified to suit any new enquiries that come in. All of our presses have had quite major upgrades over the years by Edale and these have all been done in house with very little downtime and disruption to the production.’

The company specializes in the production of printed labels for a wide range of sectors – and opted for another Edale Beta 330mm wide press to allow it to cope with an enhanced workload which new business has brought in.

With over 80 installations worldwide, the Edale Beta is a modular flexo printing press with the capacity to incorporate 14 print stations and three converting stations. 

Nigel Craig, MD of Craig & Parsons, commented: ‘When the need for a new machine arose, we did visit Labelexpo Europe and had a look at machines from other manufacturers – but nothing jumped out at us. As we have always had a good relationship with Edale there was really no contest or sway to go elsewhere. We find the price of the Beta is also a lot more competitive than other manufacturers.’

Jeremy Westcott, Edale sales and marketing director, said: ‘Craig and Parsons are a very valued Edale customer, and a true Edale house, having just installed their fourth Beta flexo press. They are a very impressive company, who we have great pleasure in working with.’

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