According to a number of leading used kit dealers, secondhand press prices have fallen by up to 35% year-on-year, with non-automated machines bearing the brunt of the slump.

Steve McDonough, sales director at BBR Graphics, said: “It all started with manufacturers lowering their prices and competition between them has since become very fierce.”

However, while the falls in value are detrimental to those looking to raise funds through selling off old kit in the UK, the export market is going some way to mitigating the decline.

Over the past year, the pound has fallen by 28% against the dollar and 14% against the euro, making UK presses significantly cheaper for foreign buyers.

Brian Chambers, managing director at Autex Graphic, said that the overseas market was buoyant and the company had recently sold a press to an Iranian buyer.

The falling prices are also of benefit to those looking for a bargain in the secondhand market, and those with cash to spend are choosing to buy higher specification models than previously to capitalise on the lower prices.

Albion Machinery sales manager Adam Higgins said he has seen a drop in pricing since the financial downturn with demand in the UK reaching an all-time low.

He said: “While these are challenging times for the home market, the recent movement in currency has allowed us to maintain a healthy export business.”

“[That being said] There is an abundance of machines on the market and prices remain very attractive. Those in a positive [cash] position will find it an ideal time to make changes to their plant list,” he said.

This was echoed by Dean Beckett, sales director at DPM: “There are still printers out there that have the capital to buy these machines and we are still selling kit.”

Read the original article at www.printweek.com.

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