Idaho Falls Alphagraphics Opts for Heidelberg Speedmaster SM52 Anicolor

KENNESAW, GA—Sept. 7, 2012—Sometimes the solution to a problem stares you in the face, daring you to act. Until recently, such was the case with an Alphagraphics franchise in Idaho Falls, ID, which has since mapped out a clear path to growth with the installation of a fast, flexible Speedmaster SM 52 Anicolor press.

As a relative newcomer to offset printing two-and-a-half years ago, Alphagraphics ran a two-color, small-format Printmaster QM 46 press, but subbed out its four-color work to an out-of-state printer and “hated it,” according to owner Lynn Nelson.

To rectify the situation, the six-year-old company brought in a used, non-Heidelberg, four-color press, and promptly began having what Nelson refers to as “vendor issues.”

“We couldn’t grow with it because we didn’t have adequate service and support,” he explained. That press was on its way out when a lightbulb flashed and Nelson recalled his company’s experience with its existing QM 46-2.

“We first were introduced to Heidelberg service when we acquired the two-color Printmaster QM 46,” he said. “I remembered being very impressed with the way Heidelberg service techs stayed with a job until it was finished, and by the fact that they followed up on service calls to make sure everything was operating properly. That really sold me on Heidelberg.”

In addition to the certainty of staunch support, what subsequently “sold” Nelson on a four-color Speedmaster SM 52 with Anicolor inking unit was the fast turnaround, low makeready waste, and the option to produce longer runs as the business grew.

“We’re already up to color in less than 50 sheets with this press, and its potential use goes way beyond the short-run sector. It gives us room to grow,” he said.

Alphagraphics’ new SM 52 Anicolor comes equipped with AutoPlate plate-changing system and extended stock range capabilities for a wider range of applications. The company recently processed its first packaging order—a pill bottle carton—and plans to grow its footprint in the short-run, boutique packaging market. Thanks to the even, consistent application of ink made possible by Anicolor technology, in combination with Prinect color management from Heidelberg,