UK – Truck and trailer curtain manufacturer, Sapphire Curtains Ltd*, a subsidiary of Don-Bur Bodies & Trailers Ltd, based in Stoke-on Trent, has invested GBP 750,000 in a new curtain livery printer (EFI VUTEk Q3r UV LED), which, says the company, offers improved efficiency and vastly increased throughput. The company, which previously would print and sign-write approximately 2,000 sets of curtains per annum, now has capacity, in principle, to increase output to 6,900 curtain sets.

The new printer can print all requirements at a rate of 14 curtain sets per day with no extra drying time. Consequently, the company is now able to process printed trailer curtain orders in one day in comparison with three to four days previously. Other new equipment includes new welders, an industrial sewing machine, a fitting bench, and a floor welding area, all of which is due to be fully operational before the end of January this year. Ultimately this investment will increase output, decrease labour costs and allow the business to meet additional demand.