Simon Printing Selects Heidelberg SM 52 Anicolor to Support Short Runs

KENNESAW, GA—Jan. 3, 2013—Answering customer demand for shorter runs, Houston-based Simon Printing has taken the path toward greater efficiency and higher profits by choosing to install a four-color Speedmaster SM52 Anicolor press.

“We were running shorter-run jobs on our 40" presses and pricing them accordingly,” said Brad Simon, owner. “However, in light of the growing influx of short-run work, we also were becoming less efficient and less profitable. Since we installed the Anicolor press and began to realize the benefits of 10-sheet makereadies, our costs have come way down and our waste has been greatly reduced—advantages that give us a competitive edge in the markets we serve.”

The company evaluated some cut-sheet digital presses before settling on the Anicolor.

“We’re not into ultra-short runs, and we didn’t need the variable-data capability of a digital color press,” Simon said. “Plus, with the Anicolor, we’re still printing with ink instead of toner, and we are very comfortable with that.”

The SM 52’s Anicolor short, zoneless inking technology dramatically lowers the costs for short runs and ensures top offset quality at competitive prices. Advantages include up to 90 percent less waste, up to 50 percent shorter makereadies, and up to 50 percent higher productivity—proving that runs of 350 and up clearly lie in offset territory.

A glance at the printer’s equipment list reveals an enduring level of comfort with Heidelberg equipment in every category. It also operates a five-color Speedmaster SM 102 and Printmaster QM46-2 press, as well as assorted postpress equipment, including three Stahlfolder TF66 folders and a Heidelberg SBB diecutter.

A Suprasetter 105 CTP device anchors the company’s prepress workflow. Simon also relies on Heidelberg Saphira consumable products, including Chemfree plates, inks and coatings from Heidelberg’s Saphira Bio line, and assorted pressroom supplies.

Established in 1935, Simon Printing is a commercial printer serving a variety of corporate and agency clients in the Houston area. The company employs a staff of 50.