The Journey of a Printing Machine: From First Use to Second Life

Printing machines are built to last. Unlike many modern products that quickly become outdated, printing presses can operate for decades with proper care. But what happens to a machine over its lifetime? Where does it go after the first owner no longer needs it?

At Roberts Graphics, we specialise in giving printing machinery a second life. In this blog, we’ll explore the full journey of a printing machine—from manufacturing to resale—and why buying used can be a smart investment.

Stage 1: Manufacturing and First Use

Every printing machine starts its life in a factory, built by industry leaders like Heidelberg, Komori, Bobst, or Muller Martini. These machines are designed for high performance, durability, and precision.

When a company buys a brand-new printing press, they often use it for 5 to 20 years. During this time, it prints millions of sheets, labels, or packages. Regular maintenance keeps it running smoothly, but technology advances, and businesses may decide to upgrade. Check all of our machines!

Stage 2: The Decision to Sell

There are many reasons why a company might sell its printing machine:
✔️ Upgrading to a newer model
✔️ Business restructuring or downsizing
✔️ Switching to a different type of printing
✔️ Reducing costs

This is where used machinery specialists like Roberts Graphics come in. We help companies sell their equipment and connect them with new buyers looking for high-quality used machines.

Stage 3: Resale and Refurbishment

Buying used printing machinery is a cost-effective and sustainable choice. Instead of scrapping a machine, it can be:
🔹 Cleaned and serviced to ensure smooth operation
🔹 Upgraded with new parts for better performance
🔹 Reinstalled in a new facility, often in another country

At Roberts Graphics, we inspect, transport, and install used machines worldwide. Many of the presses we sell find new homes in Europe, Asia, or South America, where they continue producing high-quality prints.

Stage 4: A Second Life in Production

A well-maintained used printing machine can run for decades. Some presses built in the 1990s are still in operation today!

By buying used, companies benefit from:
💰 Lower costs compared to new machines
⚡ Shorter lead times – no waiting months for production and delivery
🌱 Sustainability – reducing waste and extending the life of valuable equipment

Roberts Graphics plays a key role in making this happen. We ensure that every machine we sell is fully functional and ready for production, so businesses can start printing immediately.

Final Thoughts: Why Used Printing Machinery is the Future

The printing industry is evolving, but the demand for reliable, affordable machinery remains strong. Buying used is no longer just a budget-friendly option—it’s a smart business decision.

Whether you’re looking to sell a machine or find a quality used press, Roberts Graphics is here to help. Get in touch with us to explore our latest offers or to discuss selling your equipment.

📩 Contact us today to give your printing machine a second life!