SUFFOLK-based Ancient House Press has secured a coveted print industry award for a record achievement in its bindery department.

SUFFOLK-based Ancient House Press has secured a coveted print industry award for a record achievement in its bindery department.

AHP managed to stitch a total of 300,000 copies on one of its new PrimaPlus lines during a 24-hour period, resulting in the machine's manufacturer, Swiss-based Muller Martini, presenting the Ipswich company with its “Cowbell Award”.

Over the last two years, AHP has invested in three new PrimaPlus stitching lines as part of a major investment programme, with the technology increasing efficiency and versatility as well as improving make-ready times.

The installation has also enabled all finishing work to be carried out on-site at the company's Hadleigh Road headquarters, rather than being outsourced.

Paul Sadler, AHP operations director, said: “Winning the coveted Cowbell Award from Muller Martini is a great achievement for us. The new lines have enabled us to make significant improvements in terms of productivity and this accolade sets the seal on this success.”

Andreas Schillinger, the managing director of Muller Martini UK, added: “I am delighted to present this award to Ancient House and offer my congratulations to the bindery team. This splendid achievement shows that they have made the best possible use of their investment in both machinery and training.”

The Ancient House Printing Group employs 128 people and has a prestigious customer portfolio ranging from Government departments to large household names such as Argos and the BBC. It also recently announced investment in a new £2million Mitsubishi Diamond 3000 Tandem Perfector 12 colour press.