The investment by Hong Bo is part of a strategic business plan to maintain present rates of growth by building its portfolio of advanced technology. The two M-600 presses will extend the company’s capabilities in high-quality consumer magazine and brochure production, according to Mr. Zhang Lin Gui, managing director. “We’re investing in advanced equipment with reliable automation to achieve higher production efficiency and ensure first-class customer services,” he confirms

The two 16-page Goss M-600 presses to be installed later this year will operate at speeds of up to 61,000 impressions per hour. They have been specified with latest-generation automation including enhanced Goss Omnicon controls with Omni Presetting and Omni Makeready software. The Omni Makeready function will further enhance efficiency for Hong Bo by using presets and software algorithms to get from one job to the next faster, with minimal waste copies and minimal operator effort.

Specializing in the production of high-quality magazines and publications for large commercial publishing houses, book publishers and the government, Hong Bo is subject to market dynamics that are in evidence worldwide, according to Mr. Zhang Lin Gui. “As the market is evolving and reading habits change, the print runs for some publications are getting shorter, but the number of specialized magazines and titles is increasing. At the same time, we are experiencing demand for higher quality printing, shorter lead times and better overall service,” he explains. “The M-600 technology will provide much higher levels of automation, making us more efficient and better able to maintain our competitive edge.”

Hong Bo Hao Tian Technology Company has a subsidiary in Beijing with approximately 500 employees where it operates three commercial web presses, ten sheetfed presses, three perfect binder machines, and three stitchers with annual turnover of RMB 300 million (approximately USD 48 million).

Tim Mercy, vice president of Goss commercial web press sales in Asia, comments, “The growth Hong Bo has seen in the past two years is testament to its commitment to customers. By offering the very best service and highest-quality products, they have been able to attract some of the biggest names in the magazine and book publishing industry. The new M-600 presses address their determination to continually develop their capabilities in anticipation of the emerging requirements of the current and future client base.”