The Pioneer Group in Big Rapids, Mich., will add a four-high tower, a JF-35 folder and extensive drive modifications to increase the capacity of a Heidelberg Mercury press installed in 2001. The installation is expected to be completed in spring 2003

The addition will give the Mercury press two four-high towers, two two-high towers and two single units for printing on up to eight webs.

The press will be equipped with two Heidelberg JF-35 combination folders designed for broadsheet, tabloid and magazine product formats. The new controls will allow single- or dual-press operating configurations.

The Pioneer Group owns and prints daily papers in Big Rapids and Manistee, Mich., as well as four weekly papers, six shoppers and several other niche products. The Pioneer Group is also printing an expanding volume of commercial work with the Mercury press.