Packaging Solutions
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 futureproof the business and meet growing customer demand with innovative print solutions.
Following a installation, the Heidelberg press was fully commissioned and signed off on 17 February 2025 and 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 programme for its four printing teams.
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 futureproof 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. The company considered various manufacturers before finalising the choice, but Heidelberg emerged as the preferred partner, owing to the company's familiarity with its machines and the superior service support provided.
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, said: ‘This investment in the Heidelberg press is a significant milestone for us. It’s not just about increasing capacity; it is 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.’
