A BRIXHAM printing firm has unveiled its blueprint for post-recession success by investing £250,000 in a new press.

AC Print Ltd, of Higher Furzeham Road, said the purchase of the five-colour press had already enabled the company to double its output.

Director Mark Wheatley said the investment also meant the firm was taking on work which had not been possible with older machinery.

"We were getting more and more full-colour work and our old machine just wasn't coping, so we thought it was time for an update," said Mark.

"There aren't many people in the area capable of producing the quality of work that this can do.

"The same problems that we used to have — such as huge full colour blocks — most other printers can't handle, so they are coming to us."

Mark also said the new press would cut costs and environmental impact.

He added: "The recession forced us to look at ways of reducing costs.

"We achieved this by sourcing alternative suppliers and taking a leaner, greener approach to manufacturing.

"We have recently converted our processor from the traditional method which uses chemicals to a new method, using more environmentally friendly elements.

"By streamlining our processes and investing in the very best technology we are now able to double our output compared to 12 months ago."

The large investment was a calculated risk which would pay off 'in the long run' according to the director.

Mark added: "We believe we need to move forward by investing in the future so that when we finally emerge from the recession we will be a more flexible, responsive supplier and overall better company than when we entered the recession."