The
Super-320 printing machine, which includes a flexo varnish unit, was the first
to be sold in Australia
and within the first three months of commission, Shire says it has doubled its
production capacity, as well as producing a better quality print.

As well as
the Super-320, Shire Labels also purchased two die cutters, a label slitting
and rewinding machine and prepress equipment from the Chinese manufacturer.

While
admitting that being the first in the country to buy the Chinese machines was

a
calculated risk, Shire Labels owner, Ivan McMillan, says it has so far enabled
his factory to run more smoothly. He says, "While I can't tell you the longevity
of the machine because I have only had it three months, it has made life easier
so far and it's easy to use, which has shortened training times.

"We had to
drag this company kicking and screaming into the twenty-first century, but when
I saw the machines and the opportunity was there to upgrade at a reasonable cost
I just had to take it."

The
company's supplier, MB Graphics, claims the Super-320 machine is around half
the price of an equivalent European machine. Max Buchler from MB Graphics says
the machine also boasts reliable and well known components including Mitsubishi
electronics, French made mechanical parts and a BST computer.

Buchler
says, "When people think of Chinese products they think of a two dollar shop,
but this company knows what international customers want", adding, "All the spare
parts for the machine can be bought here in Australia."

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