News

Fred Marshall, secure services manager at Mailcom, has increased capacity by 450% with this print system that offers high-volume colour capability

What does the machine do?
It is a high-performance continuous-feed twin printing system for all our transactional and direct mail needs.

Why did you choose this particular machine?
We chose the Océ VarioStream 8650 Twin not only because of the quality of output, speed, design and build, but also as it opens the door to colour.

Did you look at any other similar machines?
We looked at the Xerox X650 and the InfoPrint 4100 but, in all truth, the VarioStream was clearly the printing system to lead us into high-volume colour, as well as having other attributes, including all-round competitive pricing.

Why did you make the purchase?
Our turnover has been doubling every year since 2003, so we needed to have a printing system that could meet the spiralling demand.

What features do you particularly like?
The speed of the printer is an obvious plus, which has enabled us to increase our printing capacity by 450%. That, combined with the improved quality, has given us reliability and cutting-edge technology at an affordable price. I also
like the 19.5in print width, which enables us to get even better print quality near to the point of the edge of the drum. The interface with the operator is also extremely user friendly.

Is there anything that you dislike?
No.

How fast is it?
It prints at 176m per minute.

How reliable is it?
Very reliable. The Océ service engineers were on a steep learning curve to start with, but it didn’t take long to get any niggling bugs out of the way, which were the same as with any new system.

What’s the quality like?
Fantastic.

How easy is it to use?
We previously had Océ PageStream 440s and these machines are based on the same engines. As a result, the new printers were very easy to use, only requiring minimal training from Océ.

How much time or money has it saved?
The new machines have only been in for four months, so we can’t make estimates at the moment.

Has it won you any new work?
Yes, we have recently won major contract work in financial services and telecommunications markets.

Would you say that it offers value for money?
Yes, it was the best decision commercially.

What about the pre- and after-sale service?
We have had a working relationship with Océ for 15 years now, so we have learned to expect their full attention before and after the installation, which they always deliver.

Who do you think the machine is right for?
It would be a good fit for any company that regularly receives large orders.

Under what circumstances would you buy another?
If business continues to grow at its projected rate, we will definitely have to think about purchasing some more.

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CONCLUSION
User’s verdict    
Speed 4/5
Quality 5/5
Reliability 5/5
Value for money 5/5

Supplier’s Response     
Craig Nethercott, Océ UK's graphic arts director for the production printing division, says: "Mailcom is a very happy customer. The feedback we've received is that this printing system is producing extremely high-quality output at a cost-effective price, and the reliability is first class. We worked extremely closely with Mailcom to make sure that any minor teething situations – as you might expect with one of the first installations worldwide – were quickly resolved. We look forward to taking them down the colour route."
Price     
From £200,000    
Contact
Océ UK
0870 6005544