Redditch-based POS specialist, SP, part of St Ives Group, has officially launched its KBA Rapida 205 superlarge-format sheetfed press. Designed to complement SPs existing screen, litho and digital production capabilities, the new KBA ultra-violet press will allow the leading retail specialist to further enhance its total fulfilment offering to the retail market. The KBA Rapida 205 litho press will allow SP to provide alternative production methods to its customers for a range of POS, delivering increased print quality, improved efficiencies and reduced lead times for a better customer experience. The overall project investment is calculated at £4.5 million ($8.5m), which also includes the installation of a state-of-the-art Screen PlateRite Ultima 36000S VLF CTP system, all in a temperature- and humidity-controlled environment. The 9,000sph size 9 (80in) Rapida 205 for SP can print cartonboard and microflute up to 1.2mm (48pt) thick and features a foil and plastic-printing package. It can run both conventional and UV-curing inks and coatings. The advanced level of automation includes plate changing, height-adjustable nonstop sheet delivery, video register control, LogoTronic Basic with online link and CIPLink workstation, and KBA DensiTronic S close-loop colour control. "The new press will allow us to further broaden our service offering to the retail marketplace," said Mark Lockley, joint CEO, SP Group. "In a constantly evolving industry, SP has always maintained its position at the forefront of technological change." He continued: 'This installation is a reflection of the markets changing expectations, especially for POS applications where high-quality large-format graphics are increasingly becoming the accepted standard. As well as opening up initial employment opportunities on the press floor, the ramp-up of production will positively impact other areas of our business and significantly streamline our workflow.' The UK has become one of KBAs biggest markets for the Rapida 205. In addition to the St Ives installation there are presses at Augustus Martin, Odessa Offset, Capital Print & Display and Norscreen. A sixth press line will come on stream in spring next year.