Sydney-based printer Major Graphics, has become the first in Australia to install a Hans Gronhi offset press. The 52cm, four-colour press supplied by local agent, Pressnet, employs the same grippers as KBA presses, an Italian ink key system, vacuum feedboard and pumps from Japan, and a control system manufactured by Mitsubishi – and is designed and built in China.
Major Graphics is a family business employing over 20 staff, with 75 per cent of its output for the packaging segment. Owned by Ian and Wanda Major, the company had its origins in 1989, expanding substantially with the acquisition of Drawing Office Printers three years ago.
The business prides itself in high quality, short- to medium-run package printing, die cutting, gluing and special finishes for the demanding and often complicated packaging market.
When asked why he chose to be the first Australian printer to invest in the Chinese-made press, Ian Major says, “The four-colour Hans Gronhi 52cm machine sells for about the same price as a two-colour 52cm press from one of its competitors. I’m always fascinated with modern press engineering, and have been impressed by the attention to important detail paid by the Gronhi engineers, such as the importance of effective lubrication of the press.”
The Hans Gronhi press replaces a two-colour 52cm press at Major Graphics, and was producing sellable print within four days of its arrival at the 1000sq m Major Graphics plant in September. “The high level of automation on the press means it is quick to set up, and also results in minimum waste,” says Major.
According to Pressnet director, Charlie Scandrett, Hans Gronhi claims a market share of around 70 per cent in the 52cm format in China, and the company continues to develop a sophisticated 300,000sq m manufacturing plant along western lines in the north eastern province of Liaoning.
