Woodmansterne’s Next Chapter: A Press Installation That Brought a Business Together

The arrival of the press was met with cranes, careful measurements, and even a bit of suspense. “It was surprisingly smooth,” says Adam. Thanks in large part to the site preparation we did, and to Komori coming in and getting the job done. You always brace yourself for something to go wrong, but the machine fitted, it turned on, and the lights stayed on across the building.”

This was no ordinary installation. It was Woodmansterne’s first new press purchase in three decades - a generational leap forward, made possible by their choice of technology and the people behind it.

The installation process was, by all accounts, seamless, and that was no accident. “There weren’t dramatic surprises,” says Rhiannon. “Which is exactly what you want during an installation.” One key to that success was Komori’s approach: structured, transparent, and solution-driven. A late-stage change to the drying unit was flagged early and managed smoothly. 

Komori’s technical team worked long hours, including weekends, to ensure every connection, every calibration, and every run-up to first sheets was handled with care. “They weren’t ready to leave until the job was done,” Adam adds. “And they made sure it was done right.”

The arrival of The Croxley Press touched every part of the business. From warehousing to customer service, every team adapted to keep operations running smoothly. “Even when we had cranes outside and walls going up, the day-to-day had to continue,” says Adam.

Sales stayed in close communication, thankfully not having to manage customer expectations as the production planning teams ensured consistent stock flow until press switchover. The warehouse teams ensured there wasn’t any impact to our customers through fulfilment rates and order turnaround. The production floor reoriented itself around the new technology. “It was an all-hands effort and everyone delivered,” says Rhiannon.

From that point forward, the press quickly became the heartbeat of the floor. Operators who had spent decades on different platforms began adapting - some cautiously, but all with enthusiasm. “It took time,” Michal admits, “but now they’re proud of the press. They’re wiping it down with rags like it’s a supercar.”

That partnership was key to the success of the project and is expected to remain so going forward. “Every challenge we threw at them, they had an answer,” adds Rhiannon. “They were responsive, thoughtful, and present. Without that mindset, I don’t think the installation would have gone as smoothly.”

In an industry where long-term partnerships matter, this project reinforced the value of choosing a technology partner who understands print not only as a craft, but as a business driver.