We're thrilled to announce a major order for Timsons — now part of Magnum Digital Solutions portfolio. Clays, one of the most respected names in book manufacturing, is installing two Timsons ZMR (Zero Make Ready) book presses at its Bungay facility, the largest single-site book printing operation in the UK.
For us, this is exactly the kind of partnership that validates our decision to bring Timsons presses back into production here in Britain. It's a powerful early signal of confidence in the machines, the brand, and the direction we're heading.
A serious commitment to capacity and efficiency
The two ZMR presses now on order are zero-make-ready text machines built for high-volume, high-efficiency production — the qualities that have long made the Timsons name trusted across the publishing world. And Clays isn't stopping there. A Royal-sized press is expected to arrive at the start of next year, followed by a second B-format machine at the end of 2027.
Ian Smith, Clays' deputy managing director, framed the investment as part of a long-term strategy. "Our continued investment in partnership with Timsons reflects our long-term commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and supporting the evolving needs of the publishing industry," he said. "Following the successful introduction of our latest technology, we are pleased to have two further zero-make-ready text presses from Timsons already on order. A Royal-sized press is expected at the start of next year, followed by another B-format machine at the end of 2027."
He continued: "These investments will be truly transformative, significantly increasing our production capacity and efficiency while reinforcing Clays' position as a leading manufacturing partner for publishers. We value our strong relationship with Timsons and look forward to the opportunities these new capabilities will create for our customers and our business in the years ahead."
Why it matters to Magnum
When Magnum acquired Timsons, our goal was simple: to reignite a legendary name and manufacture these machines in the UK once again. Orders like this one prove the market is ready for it. The Kettering business behind these presses runs its own foundry and machine shop — offering casting, contract engineering and CNC services, and employing around 60 people — and we're investing in that foundation for the long term, including reopening the apprentice scheme to develop the next generation of engineers.
Seeing two Timsons ZMR presses head to a landmark operation like Clays' Bungay site is precisely the future we set out to build. We're proud to be part of it, and we look forward to supporting Clays and our wider customer base for years to come.
