West Yorkshire-based carton manufacturer, Falconer Print & Packaging, has announced the successful commissioning of a new Heidelberg Speedmaster XL 75-6+L press. The strategic move is designed to future-proof the business and meet growing customer demand with innovative print solutions.
Following a 2.5-week installation, the Heidelberg press was fully commissioned and signed off on 17 February 2025. The press immediately commenced production with an inaugural project - a complex whisky carton - highlighting the press's precision and versatility. To ensure seamless operation, Falconer implemented a comprehensive four-week training program for its four printing teams. The press is planned to be fully operational by mid-March 2025.
With nearly four decades of carton manufacturing expertise, Falconer saw the need to expand its capacity to better serve its customers. The addition of the Heidelberg press represents a pivotal move to future-proof the business for the next decade, aligning with the company's growth aspirations. This investment not only increases production capacity but also introduces advanced finishing options, enabling Falconer to offer enhanced value to customers' cartons.
The decision to invest in the Heidelberg Speedmaster XL 75-6+L followed an extensive evaluation process. Falconer considered various manufacturers before finalising their choice, but Heidelberg emerged as the preferred partner, owing to the company's familiarity with their machines and the superior service support provided. This decision reflects Falconer's confidence in Heidelberg's ability to meet its stringent quality and performance standards.
The new press introduces several advancements previously unavailable at Falconer. Importantly, it facilitates the use of vegetable-based inks and water-based coatings, aligning with eco-friendly initiatives. Enhanced colour management and operational efficiencies translate to more options and added value for customers, including specialised coatings and environmentally conscious packaging solutions. Improved colour consistency ensures brand integrity, with detailed reporting available upon request. The capabilities of the Heidelberg press open avenues into new markets, particularly the food sector. The ability to produce direct food contact packaging using vegetable-based inks positions Falconer to meet the stringent requirements of the food industry, paving the way for significant growth opportunities.
Richard Martin, managing director of Falconer, said: “This investment in the Heidelberg press is a significant milestone for us. It’s not just about increasing capacity; it’s about delivering higher-quality, more sustainable packaging solutions that align with our customers' needs. With this press, we are well-positioned for growth and can offer more specialised finishes, improved colour management and increased efficiency. It ensures that we continue to provide premium packaging while working smarter and more sustainably.”
Falconer Print & Packaging specialises in manufacturing decorative printed folding cartons for several industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, beverages, spirits, giftware, healthcare, veterinary, pet care, and luxury confectionery. The company is known for incorporating high-quality added-value finishes and state-of-the-art equipment, enabling it to deliver innovative packaging solutions and exceptional customer service.
For more information about Falconer and its comprehensive packaging solutions, please visit their website at www.falconerprint.co.uk.