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RAPID’s Successful Debut at FESPA
The Rapid X2 Label Printer
The incredible Rapid Label Printing System made its debut at this year’s FESPA and it certainly made an impression. These amazing machines, shown by Impression Technology Europe, have revolutionised the label printing industry by offering high speed production of high quality 4 colour labels at a price that won’t break the bank.
www.josero.com
Josero New Premises
Josero has made a significant investment in its new premises in Cambridge to accommodate a range of new printers, carry additional stock of Triangle inks and expand its demonstration and training facilities. Triangle professional ink sales in the UK and Ireland have grown so rapidly in the past two years that this move has been essential. The new premises are easily accessible and boast 2500 sq/ft of space for storage, technical training, a demonstration suite, staff offices and to house some of Josero’s new printers.
Antalis McNaughton makes 3D printing simple
iPrint Pure 3D, a 500 micron polypropylene film that when printed displays a full 3D image and can be printed using UV inkjet, UV screen printing, waterless UV offset, digital offset and hot foil blocking.
Josero and Triangle success at Sign and Digital UK 2011
Josero Stand at Sign & Digital 2011
The Sign and Digital UK show at the NEC proved hugely successful for Josero with their range of Triangle inks, spare parts and new Josero Redjet printer.
Brand New Model from World Leaders DTG
DTG M Series
Over the past few years DTG Digital has been one of the most prolific developers in the direct to garment printing arena having introduced a host of technology to improve the overall experience.
New ColorPainter Printer Series Designed for Signage and Digital Printing Applications From Seiko I Infotech Inc
The ColorPainter W series
Seiko I Infotech Inc. (SIIT), a wholly owned subsidiary of Seiko Instruments Inc., announced today that it will add the new ColorPainter W series wide-format mild-solvent inkjet printers specially designed for the signage and digital printing market to its ColorPainter product line.
The announcement of the Team GB 2012 Ambassadors was accompanied by a large-scale floor graphic printed on an EFI VUTEk
Team GB
A floor graphic measuring 7 x 20m has been among the Olympian sights at an event naming 27 legends of British sport as Ambassadors for the 2012 Olympic Games.
Strong brand becomes trading name
The company behind Intec Printing Solutions is now trading under the same name as its successful brand. This is the result of the international success enjoyed by the Intec Printing Solutions brand, which is based in Hamworthy, near Poole, Dorset.
Madico Graphic Films Undergoes Name Change to Lintec Graphic Films
Madico Graphic Films, a leading UK supplier of specialist pressure-sensitive coated film products for durable label applications and screen/digital solutions, has announced a major re-brand, which will see the company formalise its association with Lintec Corporation, one of Japan’s foremost materials manufacturers and a primary supplier to the company.
New Face For Ultra Board
New White Face Ultra Board
Recycled paper honeycomb manufacturer, Dufaylite, has launched a new and improved white face for its pioneering product Ultra Board – a lightweight, robust, highly versatile and 100% recyclable substrate.
Josero’s team expands as the company continues to grow
Lianne Mardell
As Josero continues its expansion in the digital inkjet market it has invested in a new member of staff.
GPT Appointed Exclusive UK Reseller (Sign & Graphics) of Zapkut Vertical / horizontal Panel Saw range
Graphic Printing Technologies (GPT), leading provider of large format printing solutions, today announced its appointment as the exclusive UK reseller of the Zapkut range of vertical / horizontal panel saw range to the sign & graphics industry.
Quest to find the Oldest Wide Format Printer in Town
Top UK wide format reseller www.hpdesignjet.net has just announced a very ambitious and dynamic marketing campaign to find the oldest working wide format printer in the UK. The idea “if it aint broke, it don’t need fixin” holds fast here in the UK and so the people at hpdesignjet.net now want designers, architects, engineers and signmakers who love their old printers to register their printers for the promotion, with a chance to win one of three Apple iPAD’s that are up for grabs.
I-Sub Group of Companies Set To Expand
The i-Sub Group of companies is pleased to announce the launch of a third company in its group called i-Sub Digital Solutions.
New 2.6m wide JV34 printer from Mimaki brings even greater productivity
New Mimaki JV34-260
Mimaki adds a high production 2.6m wide printer to its range with the launch of the JV34-260. Capable of printing to uncoated vinyl and banner with outdoor durable inks or to polyester with dye sublimation inks, it is capable of print speeds up to around 30m2 per hour and will be available from April 2011.
A familiar name and face joins YES
A familiar name and face in the embroidery industry will now be flying the flag for Your Embroidery Services Ltd. Dean Allard joined 'YES Ltd.' at the beginning of 2011 adding his expertise and experience to an already strong team.
Colourgen Launches New Print & Cut Solution
By combining products from leading manufacturers Epson and Mutoh, Colourgen has created a very competitive 55” print and cut bundle. The solution, which costs approx £18,995 SRP comprises Epson’s 64” Stylus Pro GS6000 eco solvent printer and Mutoh’s 55” Kona 1400 cutter
TheMagicTouch – Digital Image Transfer Award
TheMagicTouch last month at the UK’s premier exhibition for the awards and recognition market “Trophex” hosted at the NEC, were awarded the accolade of “Best in New Technology” for their latest digital image transfer innovation.
ScreenPro’s new premises boost the business
Coating Machine
For the past twenty years ScreenPro has been providing services to the print industry, pre-dominantly across the Midlands. It has been a key supplier of consumable products such as printing inks and chemicals as well as offering a specialist screen and stencil service.
Shuttleworth acquisition secures its position in the corrugated market
Shuttleworth Business Systems is delighted to announce that their subsidiary company CDM Solutions, has acquired Abraqsys Business Systems based in Northampton.
Printable Electronics
CPI opens its doors to local university students for a unique insight into the printable electronics market
T-PRINT REDUCE CARBON FOOTPRINT WITH COMPLETE DRYER REPLACEMENT
The TPrint facility
One of the UK’s largest and longest standing Garment decorators, T-Print, based in the North West, have long considered their impact on the environment and ways to reduce this impact and their Carbon Footprint.
Hybrid to unveil the new Mimaki JFX-1615plus at Sign and Digital UK 2011
Mimaki JFX-1615plus to be launched at Sign & Digital UK
The JFX-1615plus features a post-cure unit as standard
Mimaki’s exclusive distributor for the UK & Ireland; Hybrid Services Ltd, will be unveiling the new mid size LED UV flatbed printer at the Sign & Digital UK show in April.
Roland’s VersaCAMM VS-640 is the instant choice for QuickPrint SW
When Danny and Richard Frayne of Exeter-based QuickPrint SW accepted an invitation from Avon Graphic Technologies to an open day at Roland DG’s new Creative Centre in Clevedon, they were so impressed they made the instant decision to invest in a new wide-format printer.
Eurostand Display raises the bar with STart3 roll up
With the release of its latest roll up, graphic systems supplier Eurostand Display is continuing with its new-year campaign to introduce new lines while substantially upgrading its existing range.
XAAR appoints new marketing communications manager
Cambridge, 13th January 2011 - Xaar, the world's leading independent supplier of industrial inkjet printheads, is pleased to announce the appointment of Charlotte Baile as Marketing Communications Manager.
Roland DG and Sabur Ink Systems combine technologies in new fluorescent dye sublimation system
Working in conjunction with Roland DG (UK), Sabur Ink Systems has introduced what is believed to be the world’s first fluorescent wide-format ink-jet printer which incorporates dye sublimation inks. Designated the Roland 4+2 Flo, this solution is based on the innovative technology of the established 1.37m SolJet Pro III XC-540MT printer’s dual pump and recirculation system and incorporates Manoukian’s standard CMYK ink range plus a fluorescent yellow and red.
Sign & Digital UK Awards – call for Entries!
Sign & Digital UK has today called for signmakers and graphic display companies, manufacturers and suppliers to enter the 2011 Sign & Digital UK Awards. There are 10 categories in all and the focus is on rewarding both the creative and business aspects of the industry.
RokuPrint add two machines to their range
The RP2
The RPZ500
RokuPrint a well established Screen Printing machine manufacturer has added two special machines to their range.
The Printing Charity benefits from calendar fund-raiser
A number of sponsoring companies from the print industry have joined forces to produce a 2011 calendar to raise money for The Printing Charity. The calendar received its official launch at the Konica Minolta ihub in London to a gathering of guests from industry bodies including the British Printing Industries Federation, the British Association for Print and Communications and the Independent Print Industries Association.
printMAX revealed as Roland’s most successful Premium Partner in 2010
printMAX, a major supplier of large format print solutions across the UK and Europe, has today announced it was Roland DG’s most successful Premium Partner for 2010 in the UK, based on the number of Roland wide format digital printers, cutters and inks sold during the last 12 months.
Josero offer Superwide printers
If so, have you considered buying a second hand machine at a fraction of the cost? Josero is now sourcing used superwide machines from all over Europe. These machines are either next to new, or refurbished to a very high standard.
EFI Launches XF 4.5
packaging printers, sign and display companies, commercial printers, agencies and publishers can benefit from new features in these industry-leading software products to increase workflow productivity and achieve higher quality and accurate colour materials printed on a variety of inkjet printers across many production facilities.
Custom configurations for high productivity
One of the great strengths of the AXYZ Series machines is their ability to have custom head configurations to suit almost any specific manufacturing requirement.
AVS AXYZ Vision System
AXYZ is pleased to announce the availability of its all new, high performance, low cost AXYZ Vision System (AVS).
AXYZ celebrates as 4,000th machine leaves Burlington factory
One of the world’s leading suppliers of high-performance CNC routing and engraving machines, AXYZ International has notched up the manufacture of its 4000th AXYZ machine to coincide with 20 years of continuous global operations.
EskoArtwork strengthens its business during first half of 2010
EskoArtwork, a leading integrator for packaging, printing and sign and display solutions, reports a strong first half performance during 2010. In the first six months, consolidated revenues totalled 84.9 million euro, an increase of 25% over the first half of 2009 and an increase of 7% over the same period in 2008.
Training has it all wrapped up
William Smith is now offering one and two day vehicle wrapping courses at its head office in Barnard Castle. These hands-on training courses, provided by 3M approved fitter, Andrew Gamble of AG Graphic Applications, help participants perfect the art of vehicle wrapping.
Certification ensures sustainable paper products
Smurfit Kappa UK has achieved chain of custody (CoC) certification for its entire UK corrugated and paper manufacturing capacity.
Printer expands the possibilities
The Acuity HD 2504 can produce fine detail, high resolution images on rigid or flexible substrates
Following installation of an Acuity HD 2504 from Fujifilm, Cameo Photography in Cambridgeshire, is planning to expand its wide-format digital imaging service. The new flatbed, UV printer is designed for print applications that require fine detail, high resolution images on rigid or flexible substrates. Cameo purchased its new printer with a roll-to-roll option and a ColorGate RIP.
Director John Moffett, explained: “We’ve used the Fujifilm machine to print on to a range of materials including PVC, card, paper and vinyl, and we’ve been carrying out trials on different substrates such as stainless steel. The results have all been superb.”
www.fujifilmholdings.com
Practical tips for profit
RIP software specialist, ColorGate, offers a number of solutions dedicated to helping customers generate large format profit. Managing director, Thomas Kirschner, said: “With Productionserver 6 universal production RIP solution, we offer printing service providers ideal ways in which to sustainably improve their business productivity and profitability.”
Digital Plus behind npower's new branding
Leeds-based large format display company, Digital Plus have been appointed to print and fit internal graphics and signage for npower’s new office in the North East.
Sihl Paper launch new ‘eco-friendlier’ media
Refined papers and films manufacturer Sihl have developed new media for HP latex inks – which both companies claim reduces the adverse health and environmental impact of printing with solvent inks. The new wet-strength poster papers can be used with eco-friendlier latex inks and the HP Design-Jet Latex printer series ( L65500, L25500, LX 600 and LX800).
Colortrac announces exceptional financial results and 24% growth in large format scanner sales
Colortrac, an important innovator in the field of wide format scanning technology, has achieved record unit sales, revenue and profit in their financial year ending April 30, 2010. Not including new business from OEM agreements, worldwide unit sales of Colortrac brand SmartLF large format scanners increased by 24% over the previous year. Colortrac's consolidated result (unaudited) shows that group revenues increased by 42% to GBP £7.3 million, with a corresponding increase in pre-tax profits of 66%. In comparison, during 2009, revenue from sales of large format scanners at a major competitor is known to have reduced by 33%, resulting in their pre-tax profits being reduced to a break-even level.
Recent independent market research has indicated that Colortrac SmartLF is now the leading brand of stand-alone large format scanner in Western Europe with a 31% share of the market in 2009. This survey indicates a shift in market focus to Colortrac SmartLF large format scanners and software applications as the products of choice in a value conscious world, and has been achieved with the assistance of Colortrac's ever-growing sales channels.
Expanding on the implications of these extraordinary results, Colortrac Managing Director Graham Tinn noted that: "Clearly the worldwide economic downturn has had an impact on the performance of many markets over the past two years. However, our long term investments, both in competitive manufacturing at our factory at Suzhou, China and in our technology developments, are now providing us with greater capacity to react to our customers' requirements in product quality, performance, functionality and value. These financial results and the growth in market share are a strong validation of our strategic product and business direction. It is providing a profitable base from which to continue our market expansion."
Furthermore, Graham said: "I am also delighted that our customers have seen the long term benefits of the quality, innovation and creative thinking we put into the SmartLF wide format scanners that we produce. Customers understand how these technical initiatives produce features that can increase their business productivity and performance. We have a rapidly increasing order book which, combined with planned new product introductions, should provide us with continuing profitable growth in our business when others are clearly losing market share."
For more information visit www.colortrac.com
Print Futures Awards 2010 winners announced
The British Printing Industries Federation, Unite the Union and The Printing Charity have announced the five young winners of this year’s Print Futures Awards. The winners impressed the judging panel with their enthusiasm and commitment to train for a career in the UK printing and graphic arts industries. The Print Futures Awards, which are now in their seventh year, offer awards of up to £2,500 each.
Grapo Printer opens up affordable signage and advertising opportunities
Grapo Technologies, a manufacturer of wide format printers based in the Czech Republic has installed the Manta, its large format UV flatbed printer at Georgiadis Colorsign, a leading Greek signage company.
Eye-catching environmental options
Elements Atom 24 and Atom 44 printers facilitate in-house display production
Granthams is the first UK company to sign up as a reseller for IGS UK’s Elements green series of wide-format printing systems. The Atom 24 and Atom 44, which incorporate Epson MicroPiezo TFP print-heads, ticked all the boxes for durability, safe operation and cost-effective ease of use.
Combination laser die cutting and rotary die cutting system introduced
Printers seeking the speed and capabilities of rotary die cutters without the lifetime costs for dies (and also seeking ways to quickly and painlessly switch to short run jobs with the limitless cut configurations now in greater demand), can now use the Spartanics Finecut-Plus-Rotary combination laser die cutting and rotary die cutting system.
New HP printers offer faster production with high quality print
HP Scitex LX600
William Smith is now offering two new latex printer models from HP – the HP Scitex LX600 and HP Scitex LX800. In addition, the new super-output HP Scitex FB500 UV ink printer has also been added to William Smith’s hardware portfolio.
City & West End Solutions win a Vespa at Fespa!
City & West End Solutions have scooped yet another HP Award, this time at FESPA 2010. The award took the novel form of a Vespa scooter, which was part of the theme on the HP exhibition stand and CWE Solutions were awarded the title of Top Sales of Designjet Products across the EMEA region for April – May 2010.
Barbieri Electronic signs up for distribution with IGS UK
Barbieri Electronic has appointed IGS UK as distributor for its automatic spectrophotometers. Concentrating on the Series 3 and Swing systems for digital imaging, the addition of these essential peripherals simplifies profiling, saves time and costs, and enables wide-format printer users to achieve consistently accurate results.
The Barbieri Electronic Spectro LFP Series 3 and Spectro Swing make it easy and efficient to linearise and profile different types of display materials, including options for reflectives and clear films. In addition, savings are made by enabling users to optimise colour management and reduce ink consumption whilst maintaining accurate, strong colours across all media.
The Barbieri Spectro LFP Series 3 is designed for today’s wide-format arena and enables users to create ICC profiles on most roll-fed and rigid media, including textiles and traditionally difficult surfaces, from ultra-thin materials up to a maximum substrate thickness of 20 mm. The unit can also be used as a densitometer to determine the relevant values for films and papers.
The cost-effective Barbieri Spectro Swing has been developed as a measuring device for flexible materials and is suitable for papers, banner materials, canvases, back-lits and other products commonly used on roll-fed printers using any ink technology. It is available in three versions, either for transparent or reflective media or for both.
Barbieri is also instrumental in bringing users greater efficiencies with colour management options that save on ink costs, and full details are available by downloading the explanatory white paper from www.igsuk.net
A major advance in UVA spot-curing
The new BlueWave LED adhesive cure system from Intertronics is seen as a major advance toward the “holy grail” of an invariable and long-life process in UV curing.
Technical support gets personal
Digital Print Innovations (DPI) is a new provider of printers, inks, consumables, software and service to wide-format producers in the UK and Ireland. The company will take over existing supply contracts as it becomes the exclusive distributor for MTL and WP Digital UV-curable printing solutions.
Fund your future
Young people looking to fund their training for a career in the UK printing and graphic arts industries are invited to apply for a Print Futures Award. Funds of £2,500 each are available to people aged 16 to30 years who are resident in the UK.
Now in their seventh year, the awards are sponsored by the British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF), Unite the Union and the Printers’ Charitable Corporation, which is soon to be known as The Printing Charity.
It pays to be loyal
Existing Epson Stylus Pro owners could be eligible for a discount of up to £900 when purchasing selected models from the Stylus Pro range of large format inkjet printers. This offer is valid until the end of March.
Innovate your way out of the recession
Fespa’s second economy survey shows that the wide format printing community is replacing the defensive survival tactics of 2009 with innovative and proactive sales and operational strategies to improve business in 2010. Over 70 per cent had used new products or processes to help them through the downturn, with 61 per cent adding products to their portfolio and 60 per cent entering new markets.
Pick the best
Océ has received two 2009 BERTL’s Best awards: the Arizona 350 XT UV flatbed printer was named best innovative technology for wide format and the PlotWave 300 was named best eco-friendly wide format printer.
BERTL’s Best covers the entire digital imaging and document management arena, with analysts looking at how well products perform in various real-world settings, as well as highlighting specific aspects of the device.
See the perfect package
Developed to offer new prototyping capabilities to the packaging market, Roland DG's 30in UV-curable VersaUV LEC-330 will be showcased at Packaging Innovations 2010.
With its ability to print onto almost any substrate and a white ink facility, this integrated inkjet printer/cutter is said to offer cost-effective proofing for specialist packaging mock-ups. Not only is it able to print CMYK, cut and crease onto a variety of materials, but it also uses both gloss and matte spot UV varnish to produce doming and embossing for use in effects like faux animal skin and Braille.
Apprenticeships are rewarding
Vocational training offers a great framework to undertake new or changed roles and provides a means of continual professional development, so as part of its commitment to Apprenticeship Week, Proskills announces its 2010 apprenticeship and training awards.
Films get European focus
A new website covering Clear Focus One Way Vision perforated window graphics films and overlaminates has been launched into the European marketplace.
Manager of Clear Focus Europe, Stéphane Moreau, said: “As Clear Focus continues to expand its operations in the EU, we felt the time was right to launch a website tailored to the needs of our distributors and their customers in Europe.”
Register your interest for VIP treatment
As well as the usual feast of exhibitors and networking opportunities, visitors to the Sign and Digital UK 2010 exhibition could also win a pair of VIP tickets to a match at Old Trafford.
Readers who register to attend the free event are eligible to enter the competition, which is sponsored by Hybrid Services. The winner will receive overnight accommodation, food and refreshments, entertainment, the chance to meet a famous face and utilise on-site parking.
Cut to the chase
Graphic arts companies seeking information on the pros and cons of laser die cutting technology can now obtain the expanded 2010 edition of the Spartanics technical guide: How to match today’s laser cutting technology to application requirements. It includes reports on laser die cutting improvements since the guide was first released in 2008 and enables readers to make a more informed assessment of how laser die cutters can be used to replace or augment rotary die cutters and other tool-based cutting technology.
Get a beta idea of MCFT technology
Vista System International has launched a Beta version of its technical site, created to help clients and end users better understand its modular curved frame technology (MCFT). It is designed to provide the tools needed to quote, order and install Vista-based products.
Get a beta idea of MCFT technology
Vista System International has launched a Beta version of its technical site, created to help clients and end users better understand its modular curved frame technology (MCFT). It is designed to provide the tools needed to quote, order and install Vista-based products.
Bright ideas on sports labelling
Self-adhesive label numbering systems from Sportstiks will now be available from Bright Promotions in Ireland, following the company's appointment as Sportstiks' main distributor in the region.
Durability as standard
Imaging solutions specialist, Canon UK, reveals that its print permanence was rated highly when tested against Wilhelm Imaging Research (WIR) standards. Permanence analysis for the Canon imagePrograf iPF6100 large format printer (LFP), Lucia pigment inks and Canon media demonstrated Canon’s durability.
Guide reveals all on see-through graphics
Contra Vision has produced a free guide for anyone keen to design, produce or sell see-through graphics.
With sections on each of the above topics, the guide offers tips on choosing appropriate materials and explains how to produce see-through graphics that can be applied to the inside of a window, or backlit at night. It also explains about levels of transparency and how to produce see-through graphics using non-perforated, non-PVC materials.
Big branding built to order
Event production specialist, GTMS, and large-scale prop maker, Model-Tec Studio, are combining expertise to offer a new concept and build service accessed via a one-stop-shop website.
Here clients can source everything from one-off bespoke props and themed displays to large European experiential touring kits. Both GTMS and Model-Tec Studio boast experience across a range of industries from fine art and interior, technology and international motorsport to experiential and architectural.
New site promises more to see
A larger demonstration area and improved facilities for the company's Print Academy courses will be available at Epson's new Westside premises in Apsley, which will be home to over 250 Epson UK and Epson Europe staff.
Calls for EU support on eco printing
Conservative MEP, Marina Yannakoudakis, called for EU support to help fund economically viable and more environmentally friendly alternatives to inkjet printing following a visit to MBA Group Printers in London, where she learned that inkjet printed media cannot be properly recycled.
Take another look at window films
Madico Graphic Films has re-launched the dedicated on-line portal for its environmentally-friendly, UV and eco-solvent inkjet and thermal transfer printable window films.
Digital dating: find the perfect partner on-line
HP has launched a new on-line service - the PSP Network - designed to help print buyers find local print service providers (PSPs). The directory, which lists 15 different digital applications, is intended to help those who have either not used digital print, or those who have only used it for one type of application.
Become a wrap star
Dates for Victory Design's 2010 vehicle wrap course have been announced as 3 February and 7 April, to be held at the company's Derbyshire premises.
After instruction on the basics of applying digital media, delegates can get stuck in themselves. They will receive instructions on the latest wrapping techniques and tips to tackle tricky indents and rivets. Victory Design provides all digital media and equipment with instructors available to give one-to-one advice and demonstrations throughout the day.
Wide format to make a big impact at Ipex 2010
Ipex 2010 promises an impressive line up of new wide format products with a number of wide format suppliers already committed to launching new technology at the show, running 18 to 25 May at the NEC. Confirmed suppliers include Agfa, Canon, Durst, EFI, Epson, Fotoba, Fujifilm, HP, Kodak, Mimaki Engineering, Océ, Roland, Screen, Vivid Laminating and Xerox.
Digital print turns to textiles
The market for digital print for textiles is forecast to grow from €114.6m in 2009 to just under €1bn by 2014, according to a new study by Pira International published in association with Fespa.
Acquisition promises inkjet innovation
Agfa Graphics is to grow its large format offering with the acquisition of Gandi Innovations' assets. Gandi's portfolio of mid-range large format printers is complementary to Agfa's entry-level and high-end inkjet offering and the proposed transaction will therefore allow Agfa to serve a large installed base.
Instant colour impressions on-line
A helpful new tool has been added to Avery Dennison's Graphics and Reflective Products website. The on-line colour selector shows what is available in each of the self-coloured ranges of Avery Graphics self-adhesive films.
Let the experts scan the market
Wide format scanner manufacturer, Colortrac, has received, Business Equipment Research and Test Laboratories (BERTL) four and a half star 'outstanding' ratings for both its CCD and CIS SmartLF graphics and technical document scanners.
Printers set to cut into UK market
Korean supplier of UV direct to media printers and cutter/router tables, Dae Young Systems, (DYSS) has appointed B&P Graphic Supplies as its distributor for UK and Ireland. B&P, which has appointed Sun Chemical as a sub-distributor, will distribute the Apollo range of UV combination and flatbed printers and the X7 range of cutter/routers.
Affordable fine art media
Colourgen is offering up to 20 per cent off the recommended retail price (RRP) on all cut sheet and roll-fed media in the new Hahnemuhle Baryta FB range of fine art media. The latest addition includes quality archival photo paper, available from authorised Colourgen resellers with this exclusive discount. Prices start from £18 for a pack of 20 A4 sheets and under £70 for a 17in by 12m roll.
Combined portfolio spans print industry
Canon and Océ have agreed to combine their printing activities through a self-funded cash offer by Canon for all the shares of Océ.
Calendar highlights big benefits
Printed entirely on Revive stocks ranging from 25 to 100 per cent recycled content and using an assortment of gloss, silk and coated finishes, the Robert Horne Group 2010 calendar features a Lilliputian world of printing and office life.
Tiger bites into digital market
Yorkshire-based ImageData Group is developing its large and medium format digital print capabilities with the installation of an Agfa Graphics :M-Press Tiger. The new press is supplied by Thieme KPX.
Get the best deals on-line
A re-structured website is helping potential visitors get the most from their visit to Sign and Digital UK, set to run on 13, 14 and 15 April at Birmingham’s NEC.
Introducing the perfect proofing package
Colour management and proofing specialist, GMG, has revealed that its contone and halftone proofing solutions now support the Epson Stylus Pro WT7900 printer, which is said to facilitate top-quality contract-level packaging proofs, even on transparent or metallic foils.
Sign giants join forces
A merger of two PaperlinX UK businesses, Europoint and Robert Horne Sign & Display, is set to create one business unit to service the UK sign and display market. The business will operate under the Robert Horne Group banner and is believed to be the UK’s largest supplier to this sector.
More to see at expanded LFP showroom
A new showroom has been opened up by Velmex Distribution to house almost the entire Canon LFP range.
As Europe’s largest distributor of Canon large format printers, Velmex’s Surrey premises will now house a 700ft_ showroom area dedicated to the Canon family of printers including the imagePrograf range of LFPs, Canon’s Colortrac scanner range and imagePress C1+ printer, equipped with clear toner units for gloss, matt and metallic finishing effects.
Tiger press earns its stripes
Agfa Graphics has installed its first :M-Press Tiger, now in use at the SMP group in London. As an existing :M-Press user, the company was keen to work with the upgraded kit, said to offer higher print speeds and better output quality.
Seeing is believing
Eleven practical videos have been released on-line by large format scanner specialist, Colortrac, covering the fundamental aspects of day-to-day large format scanning and copying.
Fast track to versatility
Speed and quality have been enhanced at Sutton Coldfield based Andesign, following the installation of one of the first EFI Vutek GS3200 wide-format UV-curable ink-jet printers.
Andesign already operated a six-colour EFI Vutek PressVu 200-600, however the demand for higher speeds at finer resolutions led to the upgrade. The eight-colour plus white GS3200 is ideal for the company's display products, which include point-of-sale, exhibition graphics, vehicle liveries and wraps.
More to see on-line
Graphic display professionals are invited to visit Drytac Europe's new website, which boasts a fresh, modern look and extensive features. These include an on-line store, educational videos on a range of Drytac equipment such as the VersaCoater XL UV coater, DES-4 foam edger and JetMounter roller laminators, plus access to product news, events and downloadable information.
Get ready for retail recovery
Targeted at retailers, shopfitting controllers, visual merchandisers and designers, EasyFairs Retail is a new exhibition, set to take place five and six May 2010 at London's ExCeL. The show will cover shopfittings, display systems, technology and visual merchandising and will be co-located with EasyFairs Interior Fit-Out, dedicated to commercial interior refurbishment.
Green ink goes further
Further enhancing its green policy, Durst now provides free collection and disposal of all waste Rho ink. To help control ink stocks and minimise waste, the company is also able to supply all inks in five litre single packs. Depending on the volume of ink usage, Durst can offer a recycle credit of the waste ink up to a maximum of five per cent of the total purchase.
A right royal transfer
Butchers Printed Products, a manufacturer of decals, facias, stickers and transfers carrying the Royal Coat of Arms, has moved to new premises in Redditch. The new factory will house facilities including design, planning, manufacturing and customer care.
Latex solutions mould to market demands
HP has expanded its latex printing technology portfolio with new products designed to help users in digital print and sign shops, as well as copy shops and photo labs, reduce their environmental impact. The HP Designjet L25500 printer provides a cost effective alternative to eco-solvent printing for a range of applications from indoor point-of-purchase displays, to outdoor banners and vehicle wraps.
Metallics make the perfect match
Irish company, Sigma Print and Media Group, has become thefirst customer for the new Roland DG XC-540MT wide format metallic inkjet printer. The equipment, which can print silver in addition to the regular CMYK plus white, will help the company's wedding book division provide enhanced print options in its personalised wedding and photo books.
All you need to know, start-to-finish
A new downloadable brochure is now available from Spandex, bringing the company's range of start-to-finish solutions for signmakers and digital printers into one convenient PDF. Designed to be both vibrant and easy-to-read, this product guide offers a one-stop shop for software, printers, laminators and cutters and routers.
Optional upgrades enhance productivity
Inca Digital introduces two new options designed to boost the flexibility and productivity of its Onset UV flatbed printer.
Anti-graffiti film retains its gloss
Two new laminates have been added to Neschen's Solvoclear range.
Solvoclear Easy Protect is an anti-graffiti product, designed to keep its gloss properties even after graffiti removal. It is a 40micron polypropylene high gloss film with a permanent solvent acrylic adhesive system said to offer good UV protection for outdoor and indoor applications.
High growth print opportunities
Printed RFID, OLED displays and printed photovoltaics offer the greatest long-term opportunity for print equipment manufacturers, raw material suppliers and printers, according to a new study by Pira International.
Poised for growth
Cheltenham-based large format print company, Grafix Direct, has re-launch as The Bigger Printing Company. The move includes a new name, image and equipment.
Business partner, Sebastian Stanley, said: "In these tough times you can do one of two things. You can retreat into your shell in the face of it all or you can do as we are doing, facing up to the challenges of what is a highly testing financial environment for small businesses and use your energy and professionalism to get you through providing a bigger, better more professional service to your clients."
Cutting your way to success
Graphic Printing Technologies has added the Zund G3 range of digital flatbed cutters to its portfolio.
Zund Plotting Systems UK's sales director, Peter Giddins, said: "We are delighted to welcome GPT into our select family of resellers in the UK. The company's reputation for delivering and supporting high quality solutions that meet customers' real demands fits very closely with Zund's own business philosophy."
Showcasing print capability
Canon has announced a two-day showcase of professional photo, video and printing products on 27 and 28 October 2009 at the Business Design Centre, Islington, London. The event, Canon Pro Photo Solutions is the largest and most comprehensive exhibition of Canon Consumer Imaging products ever staged in the UK.
Standardising colour
Ceram has announced CCSII Mini Colour Standards. The company's colour standards are internationally recognised as the leading set of standards for use in colour measurement and calibration. Produced using ceramic technology, they are stable, durable, non-fluorescent and easy to use.
Joined up printing
Nottingham-based exhibition and display companies, John E Wright and Viva Imaging, have merged, creating what is claimed to be the largest display graphics company in the East Midlands. The merger will see Viva's flat bed and roll-to-roll UV printers working alongside John E Wrights' HP Scitex flatbed printers, Zund cutter/router and fleet of HP Designjet Z6100s.
Ink products head North
Josero has formed a new reseller agreement with Sems UK in Scotland, covering the resale of Triangle inkjet products. Inks are available for Mimaki, Roland, Seiko and many other printers. Edinburgh-based Sems UK supplies and supports the sign manufacturing and garment decoration industry.
Funding a brighter future
Seven young people have been successful in this year's Print Futures Awards, which is sponsored by the British Printing Industries Federation, Unite the Union and the Printers' Charitable Corporation. The scholarship scheme, now in its sixth year, will help fund the winners' education and training for a career in the UK printing and graphic arts industries. Awards are for £2,500 each, or £1,250 where an applicant is receiving company funded training support.
NEC supplier goes green
In an effort to underline its green credentials, NEC display services provider, Melville Graphics, has enlisted ALD Industry to dispose of its reinforced and unreinforced PVC banner material.
Signs are good for Irish growth
Signs and graphics manufacturer, Signs Express, has opened a new production centre in Mullingar, Ireland to service companies large and small across Roscommon, Longford, Athlone and the surrounding areas.
Protection for all environments
Laminators in Kala's wide format portfolio are now available from UK distributor, Colourgen. From the entry level 30in Bunny Plus through to the 83in Mistral, products work with all types of lamination and encapsulation supplies to create durable prints suitable for use in or outdoors.
Swift stencil production
Stencils and accessories produced by Christian Koenen are now available from Essemtec Benelux with a 24-hour, six-hour or overnight service available.
On-going quality guaranteed
Vinyl manufacturer, Hexis, has achieved renewed ISO 9001:2000 certification for quality management systems across its four sites in France. Bureau Veritas granted the certification until 2011 after auditing the company's processes regarding the design, manufacture, distribution and trading of visual communication media and protective films.
Pre-registration saves time and money
Pre-registration for Ipex 2010 not only saves time, it also results in a saving of £30 on the entrance fee. Fast track entry will be available for all pre-registered visitors attending the event, which runs 18 to 25 May 2010 at the NEC in Birmingham UK.
Number one demonstration facility
Kodak has opened a new showroom at its UK headquarters in Hemel Hempstead. This customer-focused facility replaces the demonstration centre at Axis One in Watford, providing a venue for customer demonstrations, in-house training and visitor hospitality.
Diploma shapes tomorrow's workers
A new qualification has been introduced for 14 to 19 year olds, enabling them to study vocational courses in print and graphic design while still in school and college. The Diploma in Manufacturing and Product Design (MPD) will offer accredited qualifications in print and graphic printmaking as an alternative to studying GCSEs or A-Levels. These Additional or Specialist Learning (ASL) qualifications will provide clear progression routes into the industry.
A unified approach to inkjet
Sun Chemical and parent company, DIC, have announced a single, coordinated global structure for the inkjet market under the name SunJet. The new structure will offer a unified product range for graphics and industrial inkjet applications using both organisations' technical expertise in pigments, dispersions, polymers and formulation chemistry.
Passing of an inky
Following a battle with a rare blood cancer, Professor John Davison has passed away. John leaves his wife Judith and daughter Sarah. John was a quiet, unassuming person of immense intellect, always referring to himself as an ‘inky'. His expertise in ink technology and colour chemistry was unsurpassed. His office was bursting with carefully notated ink and coating formulations, along with minutely detailed experiments. John was the ‘experts expert'. Tens of thousands of people are leading full lives today thanks to John's fundamental research regarding printed bio-sensors.
Quality speaks for itself
Digital imaging specialist, Epson, announces that 3M Commercial Graphics and Avery Dennison Graphics Division are guaranteeing the quality, durability and longevity of their products when used with Epson Stylus Pro GS6000 and UltraChrome GS inks.
Improved ink resource
Inkjet consumable specialist, Josero, has signed a new reseller agreement with Your Printing Supplies, covering the complete range of Triangle Inx inkjet products for the North of England. Based in Newcastle upon Tyne, the team at Your Printing Supplies will focus on the digital sector with a number of conversions to Triangle Inx already in place.
Strictly screen
Independent software provider, StudioRIP UK, has introduced a variant of its Version 3.0 StudioRIP product, designed specifically for the screen printing sector and available throughout Europe from Italian firm, Grafco. The product will be branded Xerio RIP.
Green Technology is a hit
Billed as its first printer to utilise latex printing technology, HP announces that it has installed 85 Designjet L65500 printers in EMEA since its launch in May last year.
Enhanced access to expertise
Strong growth in the Irish market has prompted manufacturer of eco-solvent wide-format inkjet printers, engravers and 3D prototyping products, Roland DG (UK), to integrate Roland DG Ireland into its operations.
Buildings dressed to kill
This prominent building wrap covering the Tower of London was printed on mesh supplied by Soyang Europe. The print and fabrication of material was undertaken by Vertical Vision for this 500m2 building wrap, the second of its kind in the past six months.
Reduce screen wash waste
Screen wash solvents can be recirculated and filtered using a new system from CPS, designed to minimise both the cost and environmental impact of screen printing applications. Two-in-one functionality also means the Green Screen Combeasy SW can clean with either water or solvents, eliminating the need for two stand alone booths.
Collaboration has spectacular results
DPLenticular has been working closely with Bergman Media Group to develop 3Dynamick: a plastic lens material that allows images to be printed in both three-dimensional and animated form. Bergman is using the technique for applications such as packaging, book covers, CD covers and point-of-sale items.
Cutting waste down to size
SignUp Auto is a new automatic nesting solution from EskoArtwork, designed to help sign and display companies utilize their raw substrates more efficiently. It is said to eliminate costly operator time in Adobe Illustrator or other desktop publishing packages and provides the mechanism as a dedicated workflow tool to accept files from a digital storefront.
Print and cut package strikes a chord
A total of five Mimaki UJV-160 UV-curable roll and flat sheet printers have been sold by Graphic Printing Technologies (GPT), with the first going to Pure Leisure Marketing.
Get your hands dirty
The Practice of Ink Jet Technology is an intensive course aimed at chemists and scientists who want to improve their ink jet practical expertise. Organised by IMI Europe, the course will be hosted at Xennia Technology's Letchworth laboratories, 15 to 18 June.
New coating means less ink, more colour
A new type of coating process has been developed by Neschen to provide better colour properties on digital printed media. The company claims significantly less ink is required to produce the same colour density. Alternatively, when using the same amount of ink, colours will look even more brilliant with more depth and intensity. Suitable for a range of display systems, Neschen Easy Panels are the first to have the new coating.
Single source for print service
Total Print has purchased the print trade side of former B&P Lightbrigade, to form a new company, Lightbrigade Graphics. The purchase ensures continuity of trade print and services to existing Lightbrigade customers as well as expanding print capabilities at Total Print's 7,500m2 Chertsey premises.
Lamination specialist has it covered
Large format lamination specialist, Print Finishing Solutions (PFS) has launched a new range of wide format, hot and cold laminators for the signage and graphics markets.
Signs are looking good
Following last year's inaugural event, exhibitors are signing up fast for The Sign Show 2009, which will run 22 to 24 September at Coventry's Ricoh Arena.
Uniform results guaranteed once more
Ink that was previously sold under the Uniform ActivaSol and Uniform Citrosol brand names will now be available from specialist large format distributor, Digidist. Users of Uniform Activasol will now purchase Colorific Elite, while users of Uniform Citrosol will purchase Colorific Fresh.
Help with carbon calculations
In association with the CarbonNeutral Company, the British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF) has launched what is claimed to be the first carbon calculator focused exclusively on the print and packaging industry and aligned with the principles of BSI PAS2050.
Label printer grows its capability
Label printer, Baker Self Adhesive Labels, has increased its digital printing and converting capability with a Roland Soljet XC-540 ink jet printer/cutter. The 1,371mm wide-format installation will be used to print a range of products from posters, signs and point of purchase displays, to banners and decals on paper, films and plastics.
PM congratulates inspired students
Prime Minister, the Rt Hon Gordon Brown MP, sent his congratulations to all the winners of PrintIT! 2008/9 as they gathered with industry to celebrate the fourth PrintIT! competition. Gordon Brown also praised PrintIT! for its engagement of young people and industry.
Putting coating performance on the spot
Printers and end users are benefiting from enhanced quality and faster turnrounds from Coatings Direct as a result of its investment in an SPS Vitessa XP1 UV screen printing line from Thieme KPX. The equipment plays a vital role in Coatings Direct's work, which includes spot UV varnishing on book covers, jackets and promotional material as well as lamination and cutting and creasing.
Partnership pays dividends
Graphic Printing Technologies (GPT) has worked with Amari Digital Supplies to deliver an Apollo 2216WW flatbed printer to UK graphic display specialist, Key2 Group. The £90,000 installation marks one of the first joint implementations arising from the GPT and Amari Digital partnership, with GPT delivering hardware and Amari Digital providing printing consumables.
Large print, fine detail
To mark the launch of his latest book, Equus, photographer, Tim Flach, has teamed up with Epson to produce a 60in print of one of the images now available in the collectors' carbro edition of his work. The print will be mounted on aluminium and hung in the New Bond Street outlet of Asprey's store to highlight the fine leather case designed and made by Asprey specifically to house the 300 page special edition of Equus.
Refine your skills at finishing school
A new one day finishing course has been added to the Roland DG Academy portfolio of digital print courses. The new module, Basic Application Finishing, is designed to provide sign makers and printers with skills in the basic preparation, application and finishing of a range of vinyl, digital and lamination media.
Trust in supplier expertise
Users of direct to product inkjet printing equipment will be interested to learn that Impression Technology Europe (ITE), the main distributor of DTG printing machines, has established a new website to support its portfolio.
Cars on film
Graphic vinyl specialist, Hexis, has released a new DVD on vehicle wrapping. The film features the latest techniques with a full vehicle wrap demonstration, from tool preparation to the finishing touches. In just over 30 minutes viewers will learn which points need particular care, with valuable advice on the latest advances, tips and tricks to achieve high-quality wrap projects.
Visible savings on lamination
A promotion on Colourgen's Seal Ultra Plus family of laminators could save users £1,600 on a Seal 62 Ultra Plus and £1,300 on a Seal 44 Ultra Plus. Laminators in the initiative are said to provide an ideal finishing solution for floor graphics, back-lit, pop-up and other flexible indoor displays.
Clean sweep for chemicals supplier
Screen printing chemistry developed by CPS is helping Hungarian screen printer, Cut Art Print and Dekor, to increase the productivity of its large format screen print systems. Cleaning and reclamation chemicals have also helped the company improve print quality, resolution and consistency from its automated production equipment.
Achievable quality for end users
EFI's Colorproof XF RIP has gained Fogra certification for end users of Epson's new 7900 printer with embedded SpectroProofer measuring device.
Stepping out in style
Many of the decorations used during the inauguration of the 44th President of the United States, Barack Obama, were produced using EskoArtwork's Kongsberg i-XL die-less cutting and creasing table. At the Neighborhood Ball, for example, President and Mrs Obama had their first dance on a custom-built circular stage with a faux finish design cut using the Kongsberg equipment.
Flying the flag for education
Young people from a special needs school in Hampshire saw their own flag in production while visiting the Hampshire Flag manufacturing unit in Waterlooville. The group of 11 pupils from Oak Lodge School toured the site, enabling students to see skills learnt about in school applied in the workplace.
Capacity up, ink consumption down
Digital capacity is up and ink consumption down following the installation of two HP Scitex XP2300 printers at Welsh firm, Gardners. Designed for high-speed production, the HP Scitex XP2300 is HP's first 3.2m-wide UV outdoor signage production printer. As a specialist producing high volume banners, posters and billboards, Gardners claims the equipment has reduced ink consumption by 30 per cent due to its ability to print in a single pass. This makes it possible to quote competitively on volume jobs.
One for the favourites list
A new on-line tool from Neschen is set to help printers find the right combination of printer, media, RIP and ink for every job. The ColorBase database is the result of Neschen's collaboration with a number of manufacturers, with the aim of maintaining appropriate colour profiles for Neschen media users and to update these profiles as new printers come to market.
Green print solutions
Retail print specialist, Kolorcraft, has achieved ISO 14001 status along with accreditation from the Forestry Stewardship Council and PEFC. ISO 14001 certification recognises the company's environmental management systems, while FSC accreditation was achieved by switching to paper and wood-based products sourced from responsibly managed sources.
Agreement streamlines UV workflow
Image and print finishing specialist, Seal Graphics, has formed a strategic alliance with WP Digital to work together in the field of large format UV-printing and UV-coating to provide end users with innovative, high quality solutions.
