UK supplier of tamper-evident packaging Viscose Closures says it has doubled production speeds and cut waste by over 85% with the installation of a Mark Andy Evolution Series E5 at its headquarters in Swansea.
The company believes its latest investment in a Mark Andy flexo press represents a strategic step in enhanced print quality, production efficiency, and overall capacity to fulfil the increasing demand for its products.
Managing director Emma Blackmore, explained: “This investment marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to quality and growth. The new Mark Andy flexo press allows us to deliver even higher-quality printed heat-shrink sleeves with greater speed and precision – something our customers increasingly rely on as product security and shelf appeal remain top priority.”
The Mark Andy Evolution E5 is a six-colour 17in (430mm) press, fitted with full LED/UV curing, chilled impression rolls, and an overhead rail to allow for converting options to be added if needed. The press includes a rewind system designed for straight roll-to-roll production, enabling speeds of up to 228 m/min. According to Viscose Closure, compared to previous setups, the E5 more than doubles production speeds and reduces waste by over 85% on six-colour jobs, which will also have a positive impact on turnaround times in the market.
Stephen Armstrong, Viscose Closure’s head of operations, said the company’s hunt for a new press began back in 2024 and it was Mark Andy’s attention to detail which drew them towards its press. He added that Mark Andy’s UK base and strong service commitment was another key factor.
The new Evolution E5 will support the company’s heat-shrink operations, producing cut bands, open-top capsules, and reel-fed tubing using recyclable PET, 30% recycled-content RPET, or industrially compostable PLA – reflecting the company’s sustainability focus. Running LED inks rather than solvents, the press is more energy-efficient, cleaner, and easier to operate and maintain.
“It’s a win-win for us,” said Mr Armstrong, noting that the E5 aligns with both internal sustainability goals and customers’ demands for eco-conscious packaging.
Serving food and drink, health and vitamins, beauty and cosmetics, and pharmaceutical sectors, Viscose requires high-resolution, highly accurate print. The new Mark Andy press expands printed sleeve options for existing customers and opens opportunities in new markets such as nutritional drinks. Within weeks of installation, the company has already secured a new contract that was previously unviable.
Antony Cotton, Mark Andy sales manager, explained: “This investment marks the beginning of a new era for Viscose Closures in terms of six-colour production capability at high speed with much reduced operating costs, and highlights what the latest technology has to offer in terms of efficiency and sustainability.”
