Ady Potter with his new Cron 36H CTP system.

New CTP supplier for Ruddocks

Ruddocks, a creative production agency in Lincoln, has switched to Cron CTP having just installed a 36H B2 format processless system supplied by SOS. The catalyst for the change came when the company’s previous CTP supplier announced they were ending support for their machine, leading Production Director Ady Potter and his team on a search for a replacement.

“It’s crucial we have a supported plate processor to use with our Heidelberg XL75,” he says. “When looking for a replacement CTP system, our first thought was to maintain quality standards, so at first we wrongly assumed that meant the more expensive ‘big name’ brands.”

He continues; “SOS were persistent in making the case for Cron, so we thought we would give them a chance to prove it. We visited other Cron users who spoke highly of the equipment, and we realised that the Cron machine gave us exactly what we needed.”

Compatibility with the company’s existing Prinergy workflow was a factor. “We didn’t want to disrupt our prepress setup, but the Cron plugged right in. SOS supply and service Prinergy so they know their way around it,” says Ady. “Another potential area of concern was switching to a different processless plate, but the SOS team had the whole setup calibrated to the press very quickly and the results have been great – I honestly think there’s an extra vibrancy to our litho output.”

“Another important consideration was space. The Cron is a sturdy piece of kit, but unlike the alternatives, it’s compact with a small footprint. We have also been impressed with the service SOS has provided, and we’re confident of their support long-term.”

Ruddocks has moved with the times and adopted digital production to meet many market niches – with Konica, Canon and Mimaki equipment at its disposal – but it is still experiencing a healthy demand for litho print. “Around 35% of our turnover is litho,” says Ady. “Generally, it’s for the longer runs, but we do have customers who prefer it even for short runs.”

Adaptability has been a key element in the longevity of Ruddocks, which has survived as one of Lincolnshire’s best-known print companies since 1884. The company has developed a highly successful design studio over the last 20 years, and more recently has repositioned as a creative production agency. It is now working with clients on video and photography, web development, animation, merchandise, events staging, copywriting and all aspects of marketing and communications. Its clients range in size and location and include charities, education, hospitality, the NHS and public sector organisations. The company employs 40 staff and is on course to meet a £3.5m turnover target in the current year.