South African commercial printer Novus Holdings has made a big step into digital print installing a Kodak Prosper 6000C and seven S-Series imprinting systems.

The company - formerly known as Paarl Media Group - plans to "change the face of publishing in South Africa". It prints short, medium and long-run magazines, retail inserts, catalogues, books, newspapers and commercial work - as well as labels and tissue - at its sites in the country.

General manager David Clayton says market trends show increased demand for shorter runs, personalized content and quicker turnarounds: "By staying ahead of our competitors with the latest technology, Novus is now perfectly positioned to offer advanced print production and data design solutions while remaining focused on its core offerings."

He says Novus has exclusive deals with major international and local publishers, and will start production immediately.

Group executive for heatset Christoff Botha says investment in world-class technologies enables a wider scope of products catering for the expanding needs of publishers: "We are excited to bring change to the African print landscape with our continued support of book production and in ensuring greater access to quality print titles."

Pictured: Christoff Botha (centre) with Eric Owen, vice president for worldwide sales and marketing at Kodak's enterprise inkjet system division and UAE/Africa inkjet sales director Phil Walsh