A new state-of-the-art machine secured using a five-figure grant has been ‘critical’ in allowing a Midlands-based document automation company to increase its output and create more jobs.
Datagraphic works with organisations to automate their document processes and is a leading provider for secure outbound and inbound communications in the United Kingdom.
The company’s production centre in Rugby has taken delivery of a new machine from Germany capable of inserting 24,000 letters per hour into envelopes.
The machine, a Bowe Systec Fusion Cross inserter, was purchased after Datagraphic successfully secured a £50,000 grant. Coventry City Council’s Investment Fund supplied the grant, part of the Coventry and Warwickshire Business Support Programme, funded through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).
Datagraphic’s commercial manager Peter Wells, said: “We’ve seen significant growth in recent years, especially for hybrid mail services. We already operate one Fusion Cross inserter, so a second machine was needed to expand our outbound mail capacity and to provide the resources to meet expanding client needs.
“The total cost of the new machine ran into six figures. This was a significant capital outlay, so we were delighted to be successful with our application for a grant from the Investment Fund. I really appreciate Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub putting me in touch with this grant funding. It is already making an impact and allowing us to expand our outbound mail capacity.”
Since the new machine was installed at Datagraphic’s site in Butlers Leap, the company has taken on new clients and has increased the volume from existing clients. This has led to forecasts that volumes will increase by 23 per cent compared to 2022.
The investment has also created two new positions in its production department. One position was filled in December, and the company is currently looking for a second person to join its team.
Datagraphic’s general manager Sarah Butler, said: “When we installed our first Fusion Cross inserter, it was absolutely brilliant for our business. It processes jobs with the speed and integrity vital in our fast-paced same-day production environment.
“The new Bowe Systec Fusion Cross allows us to take on more new clients and supports the increasing mail volumes of existing clients. This machine is critical in increasing our capacity and continuing to meet our clients’ Service Level Agreement (SLA).”
Datagraphic, which also has an office in Chesterfield, has over 30 years of industry experience. Sainsbury’s, Sky, Network Rail, ITV and Specsavers among its lengthy list of clients.
Adam Plumb, account manager at the Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub, said: “Datagraphic is a well-established business in the Midlands, and it is always looking for ways to grow and expand.
“The grant they were successfully awarded has already made a huge impact on the business, allowing it to take on new clients, increase volume and create new jobs, which is a boost to the region.”
Cllr Jim O’Boyle, Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change at Coventry City Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see how Datagraphic has gone from strength to strength since successfully applying for a grant from the Investment Fund.
“The new machinery was a significant investment for the company. Since securing it, with the support of the grant money, Datagraphic has been able to take on more work, which has led to them employing more people as the business continues to grow.”
The Growth Hub is supported by funders including Coventry City Council, Warwickshire County Council and Warwickshire’s District and Borough Councils.
