Wimbledon-based printer Aquatint has significantly enhanced its production capabilities by upgrading its ageing DBM-500 with the new DBM-700 Booklet System with Square Spine module, along with a new DC-618 multi-finisher and DF-1300L desktop folder. As a leader in short-run brochure and events work for agencies and brands, this investment marks a key step in the company's ongoing commitment to efficiency and high-quality service.
“Replacing the old DBM-500 and an inefficient competitor's booklet-making machine, the new Duplo equipment has brought a transformative upgrade. The DBM-500 was very tired and due to its age, parts were getting harder to purchase, and the competitor's machine just never worked properly, although its square backer was good," said Roger Severn, CEO of Aquatint. “The new booklet system has opened our eyes to how far the new machine has come, compared to the old, the automation, the quality of the booklets produced – the faster set-up and make-ready times – it’s all so much better.”
The addition of the DC-618 has relieved pressure on the guillotines, while all three machines have reduced delivery times due to their quick setup and ease of operation. "The speed of make-ready and simplicity of running these machines have improved our production process," Severn explained. "We don’t know why we didn’t invest in a DC-618 years ago to handle the increasing number of smaller-run cutting jobs. It was ridiculous trying to cut a handful of business cards or a few leaflet sheets on a B1 guillotine. The DF-1300L folder also allows us to bring some work back in-house, improving efficiency and turnaround times," Severn added.
Operators have quickly adapted to the new booklet maker and find it easy to use. The DC-618 is also set to be integrated into the Fiery system. "With the barcode reader automatically setting the machine, integration has been seamless," said Severn.
Installation and training proceeded exactly as planned. "We may seek additional training in a few weeks to ensure we utilise all the features these machines offer. We want to avoid the old trap of buying new technology just to use it the same old way," Severn noted “Duplo’s service has been outstanding, and Adam has been very patient and supportive throughout the entire buying and installation process”
With the addition of all three machines, Aquatint has future-proofed the business for years to come. The DC-618 will really help get the more traditional jobs out the door faster and with less hassle. Consistency is key and it’s one of Duplo’s unique selling points.” Says Adam Drummond, Regional Sales Manager for Duplo UK.
Aquatint currently operates an all-digital site with machines including Xerox iGen, Canon Varioprint 6190, and Ricoh 5200. Their finishing equipment includes James Burn Alpha Doc wiro punch and bind, Horizon BQ470 Perfect Binder, Horizon Crease and Fold, Peleman 750 Case maker and binder, 2 x Wohlenberg guillotines, and a Foliant laminator. Additional B2 print presses are located at their Shoreham site.
Founded in 1980, Aquatint has grown to a 5000 sq. ft. facility with 14 dedicated staff members. The company continues to focus on providing high-quality, efficient printing solutions to meet the evolving needs of its clients. “The choice of the DBM-700 was driven by the need to facilitate the transition from litho printing,” Severn emphasised. "We started life in the pre-digital age and have always been about marketing communications initially with print technologies. Now we’re embracing the many different channels available. Design and creativity have always been at the forefront of what we do. That’s never been truer than today when we have more choice of channels to route your marketing message than ever".
Photo Credit: Roger Severn, CEO of Aquatint.
