An application unit includes an application mechanism with an impression cylinder, a forme cylinder, a supply roller, and a positioning device. The positioning device has a linear guide and a main supporting member, which is arranged to be movable in a positioning direction, guided by the linear guide, and is arranged rotatably on the main supporting member by a rolling bearing. The positioning device has a transfer supporting member, which is arranged to be movable in the positioning direction relative to the main supporting member, guided by the linear guide. On the transfer supporting member, a component of a bearing seat is provided, and which is configured to receive a rolling bearing arranged on the supply roller. The positioning device has a reservoir supporting member, which is arranged to be movable in the positioning direction, both relative to the main supporting member and relative to the transfer supporting member, guided by the at least one linear guide. An intermediate reservoir for application fluid is arranged on the reservoir supporting member. The reservoir supporting member is arranged, at least partially, between the main supporting member and the transfer supporting member as viewed in the positioning direction.