DS Graphics, Lowell, MA, has signed an order for not one, but two, Heidelberg Speedmaster XL 106 perfecting presses at drupa 2012. The 8- and 10-color models, each with aqueous coater, are capable of running at 18,000 sph in perfecting mode on all substrates, and are the first two perfectors of this speed sold worldwide. Both are equipped with AutoPlate XL for simultaneous plate changing, and with Prinect Inpress Control for measuring and controlling color and register on the fly. The deal includes a multi-year commitment to use Saphira consumables, as well as a third press from Heidelberg. 

Said Jay Pallis, CFO, "With these new presses, we'll be running 20 percent faster with shorter makereadies, giving us a significant productivity advantage against our competitors." In this regard, added Jim Bagley, pressroom manager, "Prinect Inpress Control is an absolute game-changer. We estimate the shorter makereadies will save us more than $500,000 a year in paper alone."

Established in 1974, privately held DS Graphics provides a multi-tiered platform of tools and solutions to help clients overcome increasingly complex "go to market" obstacles to business growth within an increasingly complex environment. The conservatively managed company has remained consistently fiscally healthy and has grown from revenues of $1.7 million in 1990 to near $40 million today.