The UK Market for Tablet Presses
If you're in the pharmaceutical or supplement industry in the UK, finding the right tablet press manufacturer is a crucial step for your production line. Whether you need a high-speed automatic machine or a simple single punch press, the UK has several trusted suppliers. In this article, we’ll explore the top tablet press manufacturers in the UK and why companies like LTPM CHINA are also gaining popularity as reliable overseas alternatives.
Top 5 Tablet Press Manufacturers in the UK
Here’s a closer look at the top companies supplying tablet press machines in the UK market, including their history, product offerings, and what makes them stand out:
1. IMA UK
Headquarters: Italy (UK subsidiary)
Overview: IMA Group is a globally recognized leader in the pharmaceutical machinery sector, with its UK division serving as a vital hub for clients across the country. The company specializes in high-end equipment for solid dose production, including rotary tablet presses, capsule fillers, and blister packaging lines.
Popular Product:
🔹 IMA Comprima Series – A high-speed rotary tablet press known for its precision, modular design, and integrated control system. It's designed for continuous production and easy cleaning, meeting strict GMP standards.
Ideal For: Large pharmaceutical manufacturers requiring fully automated, high-output solutions with integrated data systems.
2. Elizabeth Europe
Headquarters: USA (UK/Europe division)
Overview: Elizabeth Europe is the European arm of the well-known Elizabeth Companies. They provide a complete range of tablet tooling, rotary presses, and spare parts. With over 65 years of experience, the company is known for its precision tooling and robust machine construction.
Popular Product:
🔹 Elizabeth HATA RC Series – A mid-to-high speed rotary press, widely used in both pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. It features robust frame design, intuitive touchscreen controls, and multi-layer tablet capabilities.
Ideal For: Mid-to-large batch manufacturers needing durable machines with advanced tooling compatibility.
3. Fette Compacting UK
Headquarters: Germany (UK distribution)
Overview: Fette Compacting is one of the most innovative companies in the global tablet press market. Their UK distribution network offers sales, technical service, and training for British pharmaceutical clients. Fette presses are known for speed, reliability, and automation features.
Popular Product:
🔹 FE Series (e.g. FE55, FE75) – These presses are designed for continuous production, featuring a fast turret change system, integrated data tracking, and energy-efficient operation. The FE55 can produce up to 90,000 tablets/hour with full automation.
Ideal For: High-capacity operations focused on precision, digital control, and long-term production reliability.
4. LFA Machines
Headquarters: UK
Overview: LFA Machines is a UK-based manufacturer and distributor of affordable tablet presses, tooling, and support services. They cater especially to small-to-medium-sized businesses and have earned a reputation for transparency, fast delivery, and customer education.
Popular Product:
🔹 TDP 5 – A compact single punch tablet press ideal for small-scale production, R&D, and supplements. It can produce up to 5,000 tablets/hour and works with a wide variety of materials.
🔹 RTP 41 – A high-capacity rotary tablet press designed for commercial use. It features 41 tooling stations and can produce more than 110,000 tablets per hour.
Ideal For: Startups, supplement brands, and laboratories looking for cost-effective, reliable machines with excellent customer support.
5. Korsch UK
Headquarters: Germany (UK representation)
Overview: With a 100+ year history, Korsch is a premium German tablet press manufacturer, represented in the UK through a network of partners. Korsch specializes in cutting-edge press technology for high-end pharmaceutical production, including multilayer, core-in-core, and other complex tablets.
Popular Product:
🔹 XL 400^4 – A flexible rotary press that supports single-layer, bi-layer, and even tri-layer tablet production. Designed for easy tool changeover and continuous 24/7 operation, it’s ideal for demanding GMP environments.
Ideal For: Advanced pharmaceutical firms needing high-speed, multi-format machines for complex formulations.
Why Consider Overseas Alternatives Like LTPM CHINA
While UK-based manufacturers are trusted, many companies are now turning to LTPM CHINA (Zhejiang Leadtop Pharmaceutical Machinery Co., Ltd) for competitive, high-quality solutions.
Here’s why:
✅ Lower cost – Get more value for your investment without sacrificing quality
✅ Customizable machines – Machines are tailored to meet your production needs
✅ Five-year warranty – LTPM offers one of the longest warranties in the industry
✅ Global support – Serves clients in Europe and the Americas with strong export capabilities
✅ Turnkey solutions – From mixing to packaging, LTPM can supply the entire production line
LTPM CHINA provides a wide range of tablet presses – from single punch to fully automatic rotary machines – that meet GMP standards and can be customized to fit your factory layout and production targets.
Comparison Table: UK vs. LTPM CHINA
Choosing the Right Manufacturer: Key Considerations
When selecting a tablet press manufacturer, consider the following:
- Your production volume – Are you making a few thousand tablets or millions?
- Budget – Are you looking for premium features or cost-effective functionality?
- Regulatory compliance – Ensure the machine meets GMP, CE, or FDA standards.
- Support and parts availability – Check for reliable post-sale service and spare parts.
- Customization needs – Will you need a unique layout, special tooling, or integration with other equipment?
If you’re on a tight budget or looking for a flexible solution, LTPM CHINA could be a great fit without compromising on performance or compliance.
Summary
UK-based tablet press manufacturers are known for their quality and service. However, international suppliers like LTPM CHINA offer competitive pricing, customization, and long-term support, making them an attractive option for many pharmaceutical and supplement manufacturers.
Looking for a cost-effective, customizable tablet press with expert support?
Contact LTPM CHINA today for a free consultation and machine proposal tailored to your factory.