The First UK Installation of the Escher-Grad Cobalt-4 CTP System is to be in The Isle of Man

Montreal, Canada -- April 10th, 2002 --Full service media operation, Mannin Media Group Limited, have purchased a B2 Cobalt-4 unit yesterday at IPEX. The purchase was made to service their corporate business and magazine printing requirements, and the installation follows the recent purchase of a RIP and wide format plotter.

Colin Brown is enthusiastic over the purchase of the Cobalt-4 computer to plate system. "We have been looking at developments in this area for some time. We originally felt it prudent to wait for the technology to 'settle down' following the introduction of CTP. Now, with the introduction of Cobalt-4, coupled with our move into larger and more suitable premises, we decided that the time was right. The new system provides us with all the technology we need to improve both turnaround times and quality."

The new Cobalt-4?, B2 violet-laser diode platesetter was announced for European distribution at IPEX. At the extraordinary price of ?35,000, the Cobalt-4? is capable of imaging from A4 through to B2 size plates, making it the most flexible CTP system in its class. Depending on the plate speed, a full size B2 plate is imaged in 2.2 minutes at 2400 dpi. The Cobalt-4 benefits from the same proven imaging platform as the Cobalt-8, guaranteeing the best image quality in its class.

Mannin Media Group was founded in 1990 and is an amalgam of a number of old-established printing and publishing companies in the Isle of Man. The original aim of the enterprise was to develop the group so as to provide a service to the island which encompasses most of those required in the media field. In addition, expansion was to be attained through the development of the publishing operation of the division with magazines which circulated both within the Isle of Man and throughout the UK. During the intervening years, growth of the Group has been steady and the staff now numbers 42. The Group is divided into five operating divisions: Mannin Printing, Executive Publications, Mannin Repro, Mannin Design, Mannin Exhibitions and a division which looks after the magazine Sea Breezes which serves the marine enthusiasts worldwide. The Group now turns over ?2.5M and has a number of high profile clients who take advantage of all the various divisions.

Robin Mackenzie and Chief Executive Colin Brown are determined to continue the development policy. "The recent formation of our Exhibitions division is evidence of our commitment to future growth," says Mackenzie, "and our impending move to a new purpose-built headquarters building will ensure that the Group's divisional structure provides an even better service for our clients."

"We have worked very closely with Fastek Graphics of Leeds for a number of years now. They have provided us with technological advice and service for our pre-press equipment and we are delighted to have supported them with this purchase." Fastek Graphics is one of Escher-Grad's UK dealers and responsible for the contract.

Established in 1986, Montreal-based Escher-Grad designs, manufactures and markets advanced, high-resolution laser imaging systems solutions that markedly increase productivity for the graphic arts and printed circuit board industries. All products are backed by a worldwide sales and support network with systems installed in more than 35 countries around the world.

Live demonstrations of the Cobalt-4 CTP System will be performed throughout the exhibition on the Escher-Grad Stand in Hall 4, Stand 519. Full details concerning product specifications are available on the Escher-Grad website at www.escher-grad.com.

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