The outstanding reputation that KBA's Rapida sheetfed offset presses enjoy in the growth markets of Southeast Asia is not confined to the latest generation. KBA Asia Pacific is also doing a brisk trade in second-hand kit, particularly in and around Kuala Lumpur.

Among commercial and packaging printers the most popular models are the B2 (29in) Rapida 72 and 74 and B1 (40in) Rapida 104 and 105 universal, the two previous generations of the Rapida 75 and 106. Alongside standard four- and five-colour configurations more and more users are opting for five- and six-colour coater versions. Inline finishing is evidently rapidly gaining ground in Asia, primarily for packaging, displays and upmarket commercials.
 
Faith in quality, performance and service
The surge in interest is driven by a widespread conviction in the market that the Rapidas are more rugged, last longer and deliver a better performance than some other makes of press. So when times are hard and budgets are tight printers often opt for a good second-hand KBA press in preference to a costly new one from another manufacturer. Not just in Malaysia but throughout the region, KBA Asia Pacific has steadily expanded its service network over the past few years in order to enhance both customer proximity and quality. German-trained technicians provide a complete range of after-sales services ranging from maintenance and repairs to spare parts and customer training. This has engendered confidence among the many new KBA users who previously worked with other brands. KBA Asia Pacific managing director Stefan Segger says: "The money and effort we have put into building up a customer-focussed organisation have really paid off. Southeast Asia is a high-growth region. We are addressing customers needs and they trust us implicitly, which is a solid basis for the future."
 
Rapida 72: compact all-rounder in top form
Central Printing in Kuala Lumpur recently installed a five-colour Rapida 72. Established in 2000, the fifteen-employee company prints packaging, books and promos. Managing director Loh Chee Boon says: "The Rapida 72 was delivered in excellent condition and will boost productivity substantially. We used to work with presses from another German manufacturer, but do not regret switching to KBA. The Rapida made a fine start and in the first year will deliver a 50 per cent increase in turnover. We are equally satisfied with the project support and service provided by KBA Asia Pacific."
 
Rapida 105 cuts the mustard at Easy Print Studio
Another Kuala Lumpur enterprise, Easy Print Studio founded in the 1990s, opted for a second-hand KBA Rapida 105 four-colour coater press. Directors Fok Boon Leong and Vincent Wong Chung Mun are pursuing ambitious growth objectives: "Here in Malaysia our MOOF and AEIOU brands are market leaders in gift packaging, bags, wrapping paper and other creative print products. We are confident that with the KBA press we can materially enhance our quality and portfolio, and anticipate a rise in annual sales from 2.5 to 4 million ringgit."
 
Eastsun: second-hand Rapida 104 joins fleet of Variants
A six-colour coater version of the 105's predecessor, the Rapida 104, was the press of choice for Eastsun Superior Print, which is also based in Kuala Lumpur. Since being launched by Tang Yen Fe in 1987 the company has built up a reputation throughout Malaysia and beyond for upmarket displays, labels and packaging. Its customer base includes the food, hygiene and pharmaceutical industries and manufacturers of automotive parts, household goods, electronic devices and furniture. Eastsun management has relied on the quality of presses from KBA Radebeul for many years. The six-colour Rapida 104 is the company's fifth KBA press to date, joining a medium-format Planeta Variant and three more in large format.