Sigler Printing Achieves Faster Set-ups, Builds Profit Potential With Muller Martini Presto Stitcher

AMES, IA—2/19/07—As every printing operation recognizes, an important component in business strategy is cost-effectiveness, particularly when considering today’s trend toward shorter run lengths. Ames-based Sigler Printing is increasing its cost-effectiveness in the short- to mid-range market with a Muller Martini Presto saddle stitcher.

“We installed the Presto as an add-on piece of equipment,” said Jill Whitaker, Vice President of Operations for Sigler, “and we have been impressed with its quick set-up for smaller runs.” The Presto saddle stitcher features automated menu-guided PLC controls and easy touchscreen operation. “With Presto, make-readies and changeovers can be completed quickly,” continued Whitaker. As a result, Whitaker said, Sigler has seen faster turnarounds on each project, plus the ability to schedule projects in tighter timeframes.

Besides the rapid set-up capabilities of the Presto stitcher, Sigler Printing chose Muller Martini because Muller shares Sigler’s commitment to meeting its customers’ needs. “We like to partner with companies who share our ‘customer-first’ philosophy,” said Whitaker. “We selected Muller Martini for their reputation, support and training, and we have had nothing but good experiences so far,” continued Jill Whitaker.

The 9,000 cycle per hour Presto saddle stitcher is a sturdy and dependable investment for small to medium size run lengths. The versatile Presto stitcher handles an extensive assortment of different size books encompassing standard products ranging in size from 12” x 14 3/8” to 4 1/8” x 4/18” (3 1/8” x 3 1/8” with accessories). Furthermore, Presto operates in 1:1 or 1:2 modes, providing the capability to run difficult signatures or to maintain high speed productivity when loading bulky projects.

To meet the requirements of growing operations, Presto offers expansion up to a maximum of 6 twin feeders. Other benefits of the Presto saddle stitcher include Muller Martini flying stitching heads to assure precise stitching and to reduce wear, as well as a Semko side caliper and missing stitch detector technology to further ensure optimum quality. The Presto saddle stitcher also features an in-line three-knife trimmer along with an efficient Apollo compensating stacker...and it offers the advantages of a high/low folio, gripper and suction opening, and flat loading feeders.

About Muller Martini
Muller Martini is the world’s largest producer of print finishing solutions for commercial and book printers, trade binderies and newspapers as well as short-run and digital book manufacturers. Muller Martini is also the world market-leading manufacturer of variable size web offset presses. The company is the foremost provider of innovative workflow solutions that can empower printers and binding specialists to enhance processing efficiencies, increase profitability and build new revenue streams. Muller Martini Corp., with U.S. headquarters in Hauppauge (Long Island), New York, serves as the leading source for bindery and printing expertise in the United States, providing nationwide sales and service support and customer-specific training and responsive service to printers and binderies coast-to-coast. The company operates a state-of-the-art manufacturing center in Newport News, Virginia along with Muller Martini Mailroom Systems, Inc., a comprehensive sales and manufacturing facility in Allentown, Pennsylvania.

About Sigler Companies
Sigler Companies is the parent company of Innova Ideas & Services – a creative services agency with offices in Des Moines and Ames; Sigler Printing – offering premier printing, finishing, mailing and fulfillment; and Signify Promotions – an apparel and promotions business. Sigler Companies was founded in Ames, Iowa, in 1958 as Sigler Printing. Over its nearly 50-year history, the company has continually expanded its capabilities and currently offers clients in 48 states across the United States a comprehensive end-to-end solution of creative services, printing and promotions. Sigler Companies is privately held. Additional information is available at www.siglercompanies.com.