The fast makeready times and simple set up of the BQ470 will double our capacity which will enable us to complete even shorter runs more competitively

Y Lolfa Doubles Capacity With Horizon BQ470

Welsh publisher and commercial printer Y Lolfa, Talybont, expects to double book production with a BQ470 Horizon four-clamp perfect binder.

The £1m turnover specialist in Welsh language publications picked the UK’s fastest-selling multi-clamp automated perfect binder, which runs at 1,350bph and offers user-friendly operation via touch screen set-up, to replace a decade old Sulby 1250, three clamp machine.

“There is increased demand for short run books and as a publisher of up to 100 titles a year of our own we were also looking to produce shorter runs digitally,” states Paul Williams, Production Manager. “The fast makeready times and simple set up of the BQ470 will double our capacity which will enable us to complete even shorter runs more competitively.”

Ease of use for multi-operator competence was key says Mr Williams: “It is so easy to set up anyone can operate it and that was a big consideration.”

A thorough review of the market was completed before the final choice was made comments Mr Williams: “We looked at what was available and as well as the level of automation on the BQ470 we liked its compactness because space is an issue. The BQ470 is solidly built as well.”

On the investment he added: “It was a no brainer. With the demand for short run books we should have done this a long time ago. Not having it was a barrier to our expansion.”

Y Lolfa runs two B2 Komori presses a five-colour and a two-colour and a Xerox DocuColor and the business is split between publishing and commercial printing for local and national businesses. 

BQ-470 EVA / PUR

– Runs at 1,350cph

– Fully automated set-up through 10.4 inch colour touchscreen with intuitive icons

– Book-binding up to 65mm thickness

– Simplified and accurate changeover to produce professionally finished books

– Easily replaceable glue tank unit for both EVA hotmelt and PUR hotmelt adhesives

Y Lolfa

Founded:1973

Sector: Publishing and commercial printing

Employees: 20

Turnover: £1m