Universal Press Expands Capacity

NILES, IL—Construction has begun on a 36,000-square-foot expansion that will nearly double the size of the existing facility at Universal Press. Groundbreaking took place last November and the addition is expected to be completed in July.

With the new space comes enhancements such as automatic waste removal, room for a more efficient workflow and two new docks. The expansion is also being ushered in with a bevy of new machinery—a more than $4 million initiative that has taken place over the past 18 months.

Among the equipment is a six-color Komori 640 perfecting press with tower coater and closed-loop color control system, as well as a two-color Komori 240 perfecting press. A Muller Martini RB-5 perfect binder, a 41˝ Sanwa diecutter, three MBO folders and a 10-station inserter have also been installed recently.

"More than ever, we find ourselves in the position where we are asked to provide services beyond the printing," notes Jory Siegel, president and CEO of Universal Press. "Our new space will enable us to expand capacity, offer new services and streamline our current operations for greater efficiency."

The expansion will also provide 45 new job opportunities at the company, ranging from customer service to traffic positions.