AMS are the exclusive UK supplier of the Challenger inserting system. Designed and manufactured in Germany by leading specialist Grutzmacher, the Challenger is a leader in the field of mail insertion. Although the machine simply folds and stuffs letters and brochures in to envelopes, the accompanying bespoke software application, designed by AMS enables it to perform complex personalisation and variable data printing tasks.

The user-friendly Challenger system comes with an extensive range of feeder types and can reach speeds of up to 15,000 items per hour and envelope sizes from C6 to C4. The innovative data capture software works by storing variable data from barcodes and optical recognition marks printed on to envelopes, providing reassurance that mail pieces match every time. It can also create an audit trail database, match against pre-existing databases, check for duplications while tracking mailing pieces and above all, minimise fault.

Kevin McPheat, Managing Director of AMS commented ‘An increasing number of printers come to us looking for solutions of how best approach some of their clients personalisation requirements.  As well as resolving many mail processing issues and enabling companies to comply with increasingly tough data protection requirements, the Challenger system gives users cost-effective ways to create large quantities of bespoke, personalised mail. With new Windows 10 compatibility, the 64 bit app has ensured the Challenger stays relevant in today’s mailing market.’

Used in conjunction with an AMS envelope printer, the mailing solutions are endless and can be developed to users specific requirements.

The Challenger application was recently used for a leading insurance company’s direct mail campaign. The campaign included a personal message printed in colour onto the outer envelope of each of their customer’s mailings relating to the vehicle they drive. This gave the mailing campaign an impact and generated high response rates. The Challenger application read data from the enclosed letter so information personal to the customer could be printed onto the outer envelope.

The Challenger system will be demonstrated at The Print Show at Birmingham’s NEC on 13^th-15^th October 2015. The show has been designed to serve as celebration for all things print.