Large Format Printing News

Rising demand for high-end POP signage brings an EFI VUTEk HS100 Pro to The Garvey Group

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 24 Mar 2014 05:00:00 +0000

EFIÂ and The Garvey Group today announced the installation of a new EFI VUTEk HS100 Pro UV inkjet press at The Garvey Group's Los Angeles production facility. The two companies made the announcement during the GlobalShop 2014 retail, design and visual merchandising show in Las Vegas.

Installed earlier this month, the new, high-volume press gives The Garvey Group increased capacity to meet growing entertainment and national retailer demand for premium, point-of-purchase (POP) signage. The 3.2-metre wide press also strengthens The Garvey Group's service capabilities in high-end indoor and outdoor promotional graphics for Hollywood TV and film studios.

The press purchase puts The Garvey Group at the forefront of superwide-format imaging capabilities, expanding the capacity and quality the company offers through its national fleet of digital and litho production presses.

"Quality and speed are essential to our retail and entertainment industry customers, and they need suppliers who are proactive in their ability to consistently produce accurate, high-end work under tight deadlines," said Ed Garvey, CEO of The Garvey Group. "Our talented teams partnered with EFI several years ago to establish an advanced graphic imaging platform that helps our customers build their brands. Now, the faster, higher-volume EFI VUTEk HS100 Pro is taking The Garvey Group's reliability, quality and support offering to new heights."

The VUTEk HS100 Pro prints on a wide variety of roll and rigid media. It also offers throughput comparable to screen printing, with print quality that approaches offset. Operating at speeds up to 100 boards per hour, the press has a number of imaging- and productivity-enhancing features including:

Printing in up to eight colours, including the industry's best white ink and a unique, multi-layer printing capability for superior visual appeal on backlit displays and other applications.
EFI's Pin & Cure imaging technology, which offers precise ink lay-down for critical colour accuracy and consistency, gloss control and an increased colour gamut.
True, variable-dot greyscale inkjet head technology for higher image quality and better matching of brand colours.

"EFI has a long and successful history of working with The Garvey Group and we are excited about arming this valued customer with the best-in-class capabilities of our high end EFI VUTEk HS100 Pro inkjet press," said Frank Mallozzi, senior vice president, worldwide sales and marketing, EFI. "With this press, The Garvey Group can offer a higher level of speed and quality to businesses in the retail and entertainment industries."

Digital Information to launch SpectroPocket for Android at IPEX 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 23 Mar 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Swiss manufacturer Digital Information will be unveiling its new SpectroPocket for Android, the worldâs first system for measuring single colour patches on different substrates using commercially available spectrocolorimetry and displaying the recorded colour values on any mobile Android device, at IPEX 2014,Â on booth N4-B359.

Prior to the release of the SpectroPocket, PC hardware and operating systems such as MS Windows or Mac OS restricted flexibility and mobility when measuring colour. The introduction of Digital Informationâs SpectroPocket for Android represents a great stride in the portability and functionality of colour measurement technology. For the first time, it is possible for smartphones or tablet computers to connect directly to scanning spectrophotometers via an external USB interface. Users can now measure colour virtually anywhere with lightweight equipment â" on-site at a customer facility, in the office, at the laboratory, on press â" or, wherever your business takes you.

SpectroPocket for Android is a compact, portable, box-shaped device with integrated software and rechargeable USB battery which connects directly to the spectral measuring device via USB. Communication between the SpectroPocket and the mobile Android device is transferred via Bluetooth technology. Spectral values are then interpreted and displayed on the Android smartphone or tablet computer using an Android App.

All display modes necessary can be viewed on the Android device: spectral remission values as figures and curves, as well as LAB, density, XYZ and RGB values. Colour differences between two measurements are shown as Delta E. Perfect colour densities derived from spectral measurements are calculated by the BestMatch function. For further use on the web or in the Cloud, the entire series of measurements can be easily exported or imported as standard CxFâ¢ (Color Exchange Format) format files, or transmitted to another Android device. Currently, SpectroPocket for Android supports the i1 Proâ¢, i1Pro 2, and ColorMunkiâ¢ Design scanning spectrophotometers from X-Rite.

The cost-effectiveness of purchasing the complete SpectroPocket for Android solution bundle including the SpectroPocket hardware and software, supported spectrophotometer, Android-enabled device, and SpectroPocket App represents a significant savings over the purchase of far more costly portable measuring instruments currently available on the market.

Looking ahead, Digital Information will be launching SpectroPocket Report, an Internet-based database. Evolving from Digital Informationâs world-class InkZone Report, SpectroPocket Report is a colour database developed to enable customers to view and manage the color data from their SpectroPocket on the web.

SpectroPocket for Androidâ¢ Technical Specifications:

Supports i1Pro, i1Pro 2 and ColorMunki Design from X-Rite via USB.
Runs on Android from version 4.1
Delta E calculated from CIE 1976, CIE 2000, CIE 1994 and CMC 2:1

SpectroPocket for Androidâ¢ will be available in the second quarter of 2014.

ISOFrame Wave versatility proves a success for ICT Direct

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 23 Mar 2014 05:00:00 +0000

In the past few years educational IT specialist, ICT Direct, has used its ISOFrame Wave stand from Paul Turner Displays at six major exhibitions as well as at several smaller events. The space taken at each event has varied considerably requiring the stand to work in many different configurations.

Some of the graphics have been updated and added to, as ICT Direct has developed its product range.Â However, the core system originally purchased is still very much at the heart of the stand. There are now several large fabric panels incorporated into the system, which enable the stand to cover a much greater space at an exhibition.

The standâs most recent outing was to Excel in London for the largest educational technology show in Europe, BETT. John Graham of ICT Direct comments, âI know Paul Turner, from Paul Turner Displays told us the system would be versatile when he first came to talk to us some years ago, but I didnât really imagine weâd still be using it after all this time.

"Weâve expanded so much as a company and we now take a much larger space at the main shows, but the ISOFrame Wave system has always kept up with us. Whilst weâve changed some of the original graphics, the main way weâve expanded the stand is by adding fabric panels. Theyâre brilliant, they weigh next to nothing and provide a massive, seamless panel - there isnât really a visible framework. Not only that, I can take them home and put them in the washing machine!âÂ

A lot of exhibitors at BETT are large organisations and so have space only, custom built stands, but there are also plenty of smaller companies who book shell schemes. ICT Direct would fall somewhere in the middle; they donât want a simple shell scheme but donât need a custom built stand either. Sometimes it isnât easy being âmiddle sizedâ.

John continues, âA lot of the smaller companies had pop ups or roller banners put up within a shell scheme. The problem with this was that thereâs always a bit of shell scheme sticking up above their roller banner. To be frank, it doesnât look that professional. With our ISOFrame Wave stand, itâs that bit taller so we can often make ourselves more visible to visitors from a distance.â

John concludes, âThe versatility of the ISOFrame Wave stand has made it a brilliant promotional tool for us, and exceptional value for money too. Paul Turner Displays have been extremely supportive in making sure it has worked to its optimum at every show weâve attended.â

PaperlinX partners with UKSG to provide expert vehicle wrapping training courses

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 22 Mar 2014 17:00:00 +0000

PaperlinX has partnered with UK Sign Group (UKSG) to provide expert vehicle wrapping training courses around the country. All courses are wholly independent and endorsed by the British Sign and Graphics Association.

PaperlinX has just announced the dates and venues for the latest wave of courses. These are: Manchester from 18 March, Northampton from 8 April, London from 29 April, Shoreham-by-Sea 13-16 May and Bristol from 19 May. For more information or to register, please visit www.ppxtraining.com

Courses on offer include a two-day Vehicle Wrap Training course, suitable for people who can already apply vinyl to a reasonable standard and want to take it further and learn to wrap. The course takes delegates through the full process of wrapping a vehicle step-by-step and uses three of the best brands of vinyl available in the industry - Orafol, 3M and Avery.Â

Thereâs also a one-day Vinyl Application course available at novice and advanced levels. The novice course teaches the basic skills and practical techniques needed for vinyl application. While the advanced course is designed for people confident in applying simple graphics but who want to learn about more difficult applications such as etched glass on windows for example; the day also covers some wrapping techniques.

A one-day accreditation programme is also on offer for experienced Vinyl & Wrap Technicians. This consists of a wrap assessment exam designed to test knowledge of wrapping and understanding of the media and also includes a hands-on assessment of the vehicle wrapping process. Those who pass the exam will be recognised as an Accredited Vinyl & Wrap Technician and become part of a nationally acknowledged network of elite vehicle wrappers and vinyl technicians within the UK.

All of the UKSG courses are conducted on a specially customised articulated lorry, thatâs been kitted out to include vinyl application facilities, a rapid air room temperature control system and a six-man lecture room complete with computers and a plasma TV for training.

âWith several conveniently located course venues around the UK, the benefits to sign makers are numerous,â says Frank Moran Managing Director PaperlinX Visual Technology Solutions.Â âWhen it comes to value, official recognition, convenience and quality of training, these courses really do provide you with a competitive edge and a tangible opportunity to grow your business.â

PaperlinX has also pledged to drive orders to accredited wrappers. Established last year, www.thecarwrapclub.com is a one-stop-shop for car owners looking for information on how to personalise their vehicles. All enquires received via the consumer facing site are passed onto accredited partners to fulfil.

Sussex Sign Company opts for âfaultlessâ Nazdar inks from QPS

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 22 Mar 2014 05:00:00 +0000

Brighton and Hove, UK-based Sussex Sign Company offers a full signage service from design to manufacture and installation.Â The company has been in operation for nearly 20 years and employs 21 people.

Eleven years ago, Sussex Sign Company added digital printing services to its portfolio with a Tiara Opal, appointing Quality Print Services (QPS) as equipment and maintenance supplier a year later.Â
Despite being based across the country in Burscough in Lancashire, the QPS team, led by Managing Director Chris Bailey, has become a key contact for Sussex Sign Company.Â "Chris has been keeping us running and keeping us turning over for ten years," explains Norman Mayhew, Managing Director of the signage company. "We trust him."

This trust soon led to a switch from OEM digital printing inks to Nazdar premium alternative inks; Bailey recommended the brand for its value and reliability, and Mayhew was convinced to try it. In the past decade, Sussex Sign Company has run Nazdar inks supplied by QPS on a Mimaki JV3 and, since its installation by QPS last May, a Roland VersaArt RE-640.

Nazdar 1302 Series and 2000 Series, for the Mimaki JV3 and Roland VersaArt respectively, are colour-matched and chemically compatible with original equipment manufacturersâ (OEM) inks.Â This enables users to avoid the cost of waste ink and reprofiling when changing to Nazdar products.Â In order to make the swap, simply insert a Nazdar cartridge into the relevant printer when the OEM cartridge runs out and enjoy continuity of print, yet with an added bonus of an increase in profit.

âThe Nazdar ink has been faultless," says Norman Mayhew.Â "Businesses often switch to alternative inks because they're cheaper.Â Whilst Nazdar ink is cost effective, it's also reliable with really good colourfastness - essential attributes for our company.â

Nazdarâs ink portfolio includes solvent, UV-curable, aqueous and dye-sublimation inks designed specifically for many of the most popular machines on the market.Â QPS is a main distributor of Nazdar digital inkjet ink products, offering the widest range of high performance inks for todayâs commercial inkjet printers.

"During our decade-long relationship with Sussex Sign Company we've supplied both second-user and new printers, and the ideal alternative inks from Nazdar to help them run reliably and at a lower cost," says Chris Bailey, Managing Director, QPS.Â âWe're always happy to make the trip down to Sussex to work with Norman and his team and are looking forward to helping them expand further this year.âÂ

For more information on Nazdar, please visit www.nazdar.com

For more information on Sussex Sign Company, please visit www.sussexsigns.com

For more information on QPS, please visit www.qualityprintservices.com

Fujifilm launches Uvijet KV ink for light industrial applications

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 21 Mar 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Fujifilm has launched a new thermo forming UV-cured inkjet ink, Uvijet KV, for light industrial applications. Continual investment in R&D at its award-winning ink manufacturing plant in Broadstairs, UK, has enabled the company to act on the recognised need for a high quality digital ink targeted at these applications.

The new ink system has been designed specifically for use with the companyâs renowned mid-range flatbed printers, the Acuity Advance Select and Acuity Advance Select HS. The new formulation maintains the high quality, vivid colours and excellent performance expected from a Fujifilm ink, with no compromise to the print speed. Once the printing of a flat plastic sheet is completed, it is removed to a mould where it is heated up to take on the shape of the mould, and then cooled. The ink has outstanding elongation properties of 300-400% when heated, returning to a ânormalâ state when cool.

âThe Acuity is a platform that has become established as the industry benchmark for print quality in its category, and now with the addition of Uvijet KV to the ink range, we are able to help our customers take advantage of profitable new applications,â comments Mike Battersby, marketing manager, Large Format at Fujifilm Speciality Ink Systems.

He continues, âLarge format printing has for some time been expanding away from the âtraditionalâ graphics markets, so weâve been using our extensive ink and application knowledge to develop solutions which allow these systems to be used for different light industrial applications. The use of inkjet printing in thermo forming is not well established, but there is an opportunity for early adopters to use their creativity and innovation to open up and develop exciting new markets.â

âUvijet KV ink is extremely flexible so that it can heat and cool without cracking or flaking. Other UV-cured digital inks simply would not be able to achieve this level of flexibility.â He continues, âThermo forming is an ever more popular process in industrial applications, with a variety of plastics being used. Typical substrates that could be printed include polystyrene and PETG, both of which mould easily into new shapes when hot. We are very excited about the new ink, as it opens up new business opportunities for our prospects and customers.â

Tismo Products BV in The Netherlands has been one of the early adopters of this technology. Co-owner, Mr Jeroen Maessen comments, âI have been particularly impressed by the print quality that we have been able to achieve with the Acuity Select 4006 and the thermo forming properties of Uvijet KV. We have plans to bring these benefits to market in a new concept based around the personalisation characteristics of a digital solution.â

Uvijet KV ink is commercially available now, and will be featured on Fujifilm stands at InPrint in Hannover, Sign & Digital UK in Birmingham, and FESPA Digital in Munich. This inkjet set can be used in conjunction with Fujifilmâs UV-cured screen white, Omniplus UL.

Harrisons Signs invests in Mimaki SUV wide format printer to optimise workflow and productivity

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 21 Mar 2014 05:00:00 +0000

In order to support future growth and meet increasing customer demand for fast turnaround jobs, York-based Harrisons Signs recently made the decision to invest in a new Mimaki SUV wide format printer to optimise workflow and productivity.

Peter Robinson of Harrisons Signs explains, "With our current high workload, we were starting to see production bottle necks which we were keen to eliminate. Having used Mimaki printers since the early years of this century (a JV3 followed by a JV33 that is still providing great service) we eagerly accepted an invitation from PaperlinX to test drive the latest technology in its demonstration suite.â The sheer quality of the output from the Mimaki SUV, coupled with the company's experience of the brand saw an order placed on the day.

Robinson said that the potential for cost and efficiency savings in all areas of production was one of the main reasons for its investment. âWhilst the new machine has only been in use for a couple of months, we are already reaping the rewards and expect a very early return on investment," he said.

Ease of use was a key factor in the decision. âWith similar technology and interface coupled with valuable onsite training from PaperlinX, the transition was virtually seamless and delivered almost immediate production benefits," he added.

Of particular interest to Harrisons was the instantly dry print delivered by the new printer. "The speed of the whole job is an essential real-world calculation and with this weâve got new found flexibility. Much of the time, we're cutting out post-print processes such as laminating which makes us more competitive and efficient.â

Robinson estimates that the business has realised an efficiency gain of around 25% and the new technology has enabled it to offer customers additional services. âA 30m print run might previously have taken as long as 4Â½ hours to output; the new SUV reduces this to around 3-3Â½ hours, which is a significant time saving,â he said.Â âAnd, we've got new products coming off the Mimaki SUV such as 1.5m pull-up banners. We don't need to laminate because of the toughness of the inks; the colours jump off the media and theyâre quick to produce. In addition, without the need for drying or degassing of the print output, it gets trimmed and fitted into the cartridge, the instant it comes off the printer."

According to Robinson, these new found efficiencies have become a key factor in customer retention, something he sees up his supply chain as well down. "We've worked with PaperlinX for 13 years as a preferred supplier and the relationship we have with them is similar to what we strive for with our own customers," he said. "Their 'can do' attitude, competitive pricing and the level of service and tech support we receive matches our expectations - it's nice to feel properly looked after!"

PaperlinX return to Sign & Digital UK in 2014 with a stand promoting its range of digital print solutions, including products from the Mimaki range. For more information or to pre-book a demo on stand, please email digital.uk@paperlinx.com.

The complete range of Mimaki products can be found at www.hybridservices.co.uk - the homepage of its exclusive UK and Irish distributor, Hybrid Services Ltd who also have a strong presence at the exhibition.

For more information on Harrisons Signs, please visit www.harrisonsigns.co.uk.

Hybrid Services announces UK & Ireland-wide authorised Mimaki SUV Demo Centres

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 20 Mar 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Following the introduction of the Mimaki SUV printer range, Mimaki's UK and Irish distributor, Hybrid Services Ltd., has announced the appointment of authorised âSUV Demo Centresâ to enable prospective customers to view the printer and assess its creative and commercial advantages first-hand.

Hybrid used a strongly-attended reseller forum event held in March at Rookery Hall Hotel in Cheshire to launch the printer to its network, with sessions that included technical training, intensive insights into the product and RIP software and an engaging talk from Mimaki EMEAâs general manager of marketing, Mike Horsten, who had flown in from Amsterdam before heading to the FESPA Summit in Munich.

Granthams, Graphic Printing Technologies, PaperlinX, Signmaster, Xpres and Your Print Specialists all have demonstration machines available for customers to view in their showrooms in mainland UK, and Reprocentre (in Dublin) and Dennis D Evans (in Belfast) offer similar opportunities for prospective Irish and Northern Irish customers.

âGetting such a strong group of highly regarded resellers in one room to look at this exciting new product in detail was important for us,â says national sales manager at Hybrid, John de la Roche. âThe Mimaki SUV Series delivers a completely unique print result and we genuinely believe that when people see the output theyâll truly appreciate the extensive benefits the printer can offer their company. By offering a network of highly qualified, specialist resellers around the UK and Ireland with demonstration facilities, we can make this as easy as possible.â

The new Mimaki printer is available in 1.3m and 1.6m widths and produces an instantly dry, vibrant and robust print onto substrates such as wallpaper, vinyl and banner, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor durable jobs that, in a lot of instances, will not require lamination. âEven if an over laminate is deemed necessary, it can be finished immediately after printing as no gassing off is required,â says de la Roche. âA big feature alongside the glossy print is its incredible durability and scratch resistance â" weâd really like customers to see it for themselves to fully appreciate how different it is to anything else out there!â

With prices starting from Â£17,995 and including a one year, gold warranty along with fully featured RIP software, the Mimaki SUV is expected to find homes with signmakers as well as display print providers looking for something to set themselves apart from the standard fare. âIncreasingly, customers are looking for a point of difference and the new Mimaki gives graphics companies a chance to offer them that,â concludes de la Roche.

For more information, please visit www.hybridservices.co.uk/suv

Complete Sign Solutions invests in two Roland SolJet Pro4 XR-640 printers from printMAX

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 20 Mar 2014 05:00:00 +0000

Camberley, UK-based manufacturer and supplier of bespoke signage, Complete Sign Solutions, has transformed the production side of its business over the last 18 months following the sizeable investment of two Roland XR-640 wide format printers.

âThe very first printer we bought was a 2nd user Roland - approximately 12 years ago - which paid for itself within just 2 months! Iâve had a Roland ever since,â explains Alister from Complete Sign Solutions.

In 2012, the company was looking to see how it could adapt; to establish what technology might whet its appetite for expansion. Enter Roland and the next generation of the SolJet - the Pro 4 XR-640.

Not only did the new Roland printer impress with speed; the offer was boosted by the introduction of the new Eco-Sol Max 2 inks, offering greater density, vibrancy and more colour accuracy than ever before.Â As soon as the printer was announced, Complete Sign Solutions instantly recognised the user benefits along with the wall mural-sized hole it could fill within its business.

âWe were looking at print technology that would allow us to not only fulfil wider print orders but also enable us to produce more wall art at higher quality,â says Alister.Â Following a demonstration with Roland Authorised Dealer, printMAX, the printer sold itself. âThe ability to print white, along with the consistency of colour was fantastic. We were able to produce some really high quality wall coverings at a much higher production rate than ever before.â

The roll feed take-up system also provided the company with the ability to leave it to print, whilst getting onto other jobs; a highly practical feature, where in a print room, the ability to multi-task is always a key factor.

âWe had a latex machine, which was a great printer, but unfortunately the colour consistency and speed really let us down. Our latex took a good 30 mins to turn on where as our XR-640 would be switched on and ready to go.â

This led the team to asking themselves the question, âwhat printer is as good as our Roland SolJet?â The simple answer being, of course, another XR! âWe soon realised that with another XR-640, our production times and consistency would be second to none, so we headed back to printMAX. The guys there have always been reliable and flexible so without question we headed back for a second machine.â

18 months down the line, Complete Sign Solutions are producing more wall art than ever before and are more than happy with their latest Roland investments.Â âWe are extremely impressed with both the Roland XR-640s but also the service and response from printMAX. The printers have transformed our business and I can heartily recommend both the Roland XR-640 and printMAX to anyone looking to diversify,â concludes Alister.

Roland announces commercial availability of VersaUV LEJ-640F wide format flatbed printer

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 19 Mar 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Roland DG UK has announced the public availability of its VersaUV LEJ-640F wide format flatbed printer.Â The new machine, a prototype of which was showcased at Sign & Digital UK 2013, is the companyâs first dedicated flatbed printer and brings new, superior levels of functionality, versatility and quality to wide format UV printing.Â

Says Rob Goleniowski, Business Manager â" Sign & Graphics, Roland DG (UK) Ltd: âThis machine has generated tremendous interest since we introduced the prototype as our first dedicated flatbed offering at Sign & Digital UK last year.Â A year on, and we have an outstanding commercial model to offer the industry and it is a welcome addition to our growing family of UV machines.

âNow, with the public availability of a dedicated flatbed machine, we have achieved another true milestone in the continued evolution of Roland DG as one of this industryâs most dynamic and innovative manufacturers. The inherent flexibility of this machine is exceptional and we are looking forward to meeting with customers at Sign & Digital UK 2014 to discuss how they can diversify and grow their product offering and profitability by investing in this exciting flatbed UV technology.â

The VersaUV LEJ-640F offers printers and sign makers the real flexibility needed to produce an extensive range of creative, vibrant and profitable applications such as outdoor and indoor signage, POS /POP displays, exhibition graphics, 3D and textured print and packaging prototypes.

Able to print on both rigid and flexible media, the machine has a print area of 1600 x 2500mm wide and provides high-quality printing up to 1440 x 1440 dpi on substrates weighing up to 200kg and up to 150mm (6 inches) in height. It can print on an extraordinarily wide range of rigid and flexible sheets including PVC, polyurethane, polystyrene, polypropylene, cardboard, aluminium panels, fluted and corrugated boards and acrylics as well as polycarbonate, PET, polyethylene, dibond and foamex.

Using Rolandâs ECO-UV ink and instantly curing UV-LED lamps, the LEJ-640F supports three ink configurations - CMYK+White+Gloss for the largest range of applications; CMYK+White+White for opaque white printing on transparent and dark-coloured substrates and CMYK+Gloss+Gloss for an extensive range of 3D, doming or embossing effects in striking gloss and matt finishes.

The LEJ-640F also comes with VersaWorks, Rolandâs powerful and user-friendly RIP software with a built-in PantoneÂ® spot colour library, variable data printing and a predictive ink usage calculator. All VersaUV LEJ-640F machines come with a one year on-site full parts and labour, RolandCare warranty and Roland OnSupportâ¢ for unattended monitoring of the printer.

For more information, please visit the VersaUV LEJ-640F page on the Roland DG website: http://www.rolanddg.co.uk/products/printers/lej-640f/

Roland announces plans for Sign & Digital UK 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 19 Mar 2014 05:00:00 +0000

Roland DG UK is gearing up for its busiest and most exciting Sign & Digital UK yet and will be showing the widest selection of machines ever demonstrated at the show, including the recently launched VersaUV LEF-20 and LEJ-640F flatbed printers, as well as offering the opportunity for companies to win a Roland printer in the Sign & Digital prize draw. In addition, visitors will once again experience the hospitality that Roland DG has become renowned for in the Roland cafÃ© (stand G30).

Says Rob Goleniowski, Business Manager - Sign & Graphics, Roland DG (UK) Ltd, âThis year we will be showing the entire Roland DG range from entry-level up to professional. Itâs going to be a vibrant, busy stand where weâll show visitors how can they can maximise their creativity, profit, customer satisfaction and loyalty using Roland DGâs technology.â

First in the line-up is the âmagicalâ VersaUV LEF-20, Roland DGâs biggest and fastest desktop UV machine to date, which offers sign makers and graphics producers the opportunity to diversify their business and target new markets. The LEF-20 can be used to turn an exhaustive range of objects including promotional items, novelty gifts, souvenirs, awards, USB sticks and phone cases into highly profitable, creative and personalised items, as well as enabling users to produce small-scale signage.

Throughout the course of the show, Roland Academy & Creative Centre Manager, Joe Wigzell, will be bringing the LEF-20 magic alive by running live boot camp sessions on the stand, inviting users to see for themselves that itâs no illusion how outstanding this machine is.Â Plus, Roland DG will soon be confirming the presence of an extra-special mystery guest on the stand who will add a little more magical mystery to proceedings.

The other show debutant will be the VersaUV LEJ-640F flatbed printer, Roland DGâs first wide format flatbed printer. Offering a print area of 1600 x 2500mm wide, and 150mm in height, it provides printers and sign makers the opportunity to create the broadest range of POS displays, packaging prototypes, outdoor and indoor signage.

Also showcasing on the Roland stand will be the VersaCAMM VS-i series, the latest addition to the world's most popular printer/cutter range. Plus, this year the stand will also see the return of âThe Beastâ, Roland DGâs fastest printer - the SOLJET PRO4 XF-640 - which had a hugely successful UK debut at Sign & Digital UK in 2013.Â âThe Beastâ will be in good company, sitting alongside its cousin, the SOLJET PRO4 XR-640, Roland DG's flagship (and fastest) print & cut machine.

Also featured on the stand will be the VersaART RE-640, Roland DGâs popular four-colour 64 inch wide format inkjet printer. Companies visiting the show will have the opportunity to win an RE-640 in the Sign & Digital prize draw.

Rob Goleniowski concludes, âWe invite all visitors to the show to come to the Roland DG stand and witness first-hand how our extensive technology portfolio â" which I believe to be the most diverse and versatile in the industry - can truly change the way they do business and create a little magic for them and their customers.â

Countdown to Ipex 2014 - one week to go!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 18 Mar 2014 17:00:00 +0000

With only a week to go, the global print industry is counting down the days until Ipex finally opens the doors to its new home at the ExCel London between 24th and 29th March 2014. Ipex will be the first international print-centric event to combine an exhibition with a comprehensive content programme â" striking an exciting balance between the latest technologies and education that promises to galvanise any print business. If visitors havenât already registered, theyâre encouraged to pre-register free-of-charge now via www.ipex.org to avoid paying Â£30.00 on the day.

âIpex, set in the heart of London, is primed and ready to help print emphatically stake its place in the modern communications mix,â explains Trevor Crawford, Ipex 2014 Event Director. âWeâre confident that we have come up with the right formula for an event that will benefit exhibitors and visitors alike. There is a plethora of new and innovative technology, knowledge and inspiration at every turn, and the invaluable opportunity to network and engage with the print community.â

Running across six days, Ipex will open from 10:30 â" 18:00 Monday to Friday and from 10:00 â" 16:00 on Saturday. ExCeL London provides the event with a state-of-the-art home in one of the business capitals in the world. The venue is easy accessible by car and public transport, with easy links to and from London airports. Visitors can acquire all the information they need on the event, accommodation and travel via www.ipex.org and www.tfl.gov.uk

Visitors will discover the latest global technologies and solutions from hundreds of international companies representing the entire print production workflow. Visitors will not only see new product and technology launches that can produce quality print applications from concept to end product, but also the knowledge with which to maximise their impact. Over 170 leading industry experts from forward-thinking global brands and companies will be speaking across the World Print Summit, Masterclasses and Cross Media Production seminar programmes to help visitors build a blueprint for success now and in the future. These will address future trends and strategies, business growth and production efficiency for SME printers and the implementation of communication strategies across multiple platforms, respectively.

Meanwhile a host of features will provide further inspiration and food for thought:

Future Innovations Zone: showcasing the printed products and technologies that are set for rapid expansion over the next few years
Inspiration Avenue: celebrating powerful print opportunities and impact statements that demonstrate the crucial role of print and its versatility across a number of major themes from around the world, including retail, interactive, automotive, sports, education, design and creative, and electronics
EcoZone: a gallery educating visitors on the ecological and business-related advantages of reducing their environmental impact.
Youth Day: putting an emphasis on the importance of injecting young blood into the industry, this programme takes place in the World Print Summit on Saturday 29th March and features presentations on the power of print from past students of the industry, a tour of Ipex, practical workshops and career advice for students
Wide Format Zone: a range of devices and ancillary services being showcased by Epson, Screen, D&K, Grafityp and M Partners, among others

âIpex has been strategically developed to respond to the changing communications landscape to become the definitive information source for the latest trends and technologies driving the print industry,â concludes Crawford. âIt addresses every component of a print business and all visitors are guaranteed to find a practical takeaway, new idea, skill, solution or mind-set that will boost the performance of their company â" for free. Weâve striven to ensure that visitors not only have an eclectic event that will help their business across the board, but also the tools and information required to maximise their time investment at the event.â

Visitors can pre-register for free for Ipex 2014 and keep abreast with all the latest news and seminar programmes via www.ipex.org. Visitors will also be provided with a z-card guide that provides a holistic overview of the event, its exhibitors and its content programme, the show catalogue (free for the first time), a city guide of London and the Ipex Daily, which will be published and distributed every day throughout the event.

Mimaki announces product line-up for InPrint show

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 18 Mar 2014 05:00:00 +0000

Mimaki has announced that it will be exhibiting at InPrint, being held in conjunction with Hannover Messe 2014 in Germany. The worldâs first trade exhibition exclusively dedicated to print technology for industrial manufacturing will be held from 8th to 10th April 2014. Mimaki will be located in Stand H16 at the show.

âWith the growing quality and capabilities of digital textile printing solutions available in the marketplace today,â says Mike Horsten, Marketing Manager for Mimaki Europe, âdigital printing on a wide range of fabrics is gaining broad acceptance across a number of markets including fashion, home dÃ©cor and signs and display graphics. Mimaki has long played a leadership role in delivery of high quality digital textile printing solutions for custom fabrics, test marketing and short runs of printed textiles. In addition, we will be featuring some of our flatbed UV-curable wide format printers that produce a broad array of on-demand printed industrial applications. We are thrilled to be part of this first-ever trade exhibition dedicated to print technology for industrial manufacturing and excited about the solutions we will be able to demonstrate to attendees.â

Featured Textile Solutions

The highlight of Mimakiâs stand will be its highly functional textile printing solutions, including the TS500-1800, the worldâs fastest dye sublimation printer, capable of printing at 150 square metres per hour on transfer paper. It produces brilliant colour for apparel and soft signage, both of which are seeing increased demand for short run lengths that are ideal for digital on-demand printing. Key features that set this dye sublimation printer apart in the marketplace include:

Unmatched printing speed for sublimation paper at 150m2/h in high-speed mode. The TS500-1800 uses newly developed printheads that achieve a maximum speed in four- or six-colour mode. The printer includes six printheads, in a three staggered configuration.
Mist removal filter - The mist removal filter prevents problems caused by ink mist and enhances the stability of print operations by suctioning the mist inside the printer.
Mimaki Degassing Module - The Mimaki degassing module (MDM-20) eliminates the gasses or bubbles that can occur in inks during the printing process, decreasing the likelihood of nozzle blockage and improving the accuracy of ink dot placement. In addition, this module enables the printer to use undegassed bottled inks instead of conventional degassed ink packs, thus reducing ink costs.
Mimaki Sb300 dye sublimation ink - Optimised for dye sublimation printing, Sb300 ink offers an affordable price, dries quickly and produces brilliant colours. Sb300 ink is available in six colours - black, blue, magenta, yellow, light blue and light magenta.
Auto Media Feeder (AMF) - Mimakiâs unique Auto Media Feeder provides stable feeding and take-up of print media, eliminating much of the need for operator intervention during printing
Larger roll media size - The TS500-1800 can accept rolls of media up to 60kg and 300mm in diameter, further improving operator productivity by eliminating the need for frequent media changes. Larger orders can be continuously printed without interruption, or batches of smaller orders using the same media can be easily handled.

âWe believe that the TS500-1800 will speed the transition to digital printing in the worlds of soft signage and apparel that is already well underway,â Horsten added. âIn addition, our dedication to eco-friendly printing is also demonstrated with this textile printer, which uses less ink and water and results in less waste than other printing methods.â

Mimaki will also be showing the Klieverik GTC101/2000, a partner product for transferring vibrant TS500-1800 prints from sublimation paper to fabric.

UV Printing on Rigid Media

âPrinting direct to rigid substrates is another huge industrial printing opportunity, for everything from point of purchase materials to promotional products,â Horsten said. âOur portfolio includes printers that can produce an extremely broad range of applications with exceptional quality and productivity.â

On Display at InPrint:

Mimaki UJF-6042. This UV flatbed printer with LED curing and multiple ink options prints directly on substrates up to 150mm thick with a precise and vivid image quality that is normally only found in more costly printers. It supports 6 colours and white ink. Together with its ability to print up to 1800x1800 dpi and its variable dot size, the UJF-6042 is engineered to deliver extreme accuracy of the ink drop placement on the substrate. For photo applications, its A2 size means operators can simultaneously print two facing pages of an A2-size photo album. For smaller items, it is easy to create an efficient print layout to minimize waste of expensive substrates and decrease overall production time.
Mimaki JFX500-2131. This UV printer incorporates brand-new head technology and advanced LED curing.Â Its advanced head movement control produces an exceptionally high resolution image quality that can produce legible fonts as small as 2 points. With print speeds of up to 60 square metres per hour with CMYK and 45 square metres per hour with white, it also delivers the ultimate in productivity. Multiple ink options ensure the ability to produce a wide range of applications, including both rigid and flexible inks.

Details about all of Mimakiâs products â" including those for the textile and manufacturing industries, can be found on Hybrid Servicesâ website - www.hybridservices.co.uk. Hybrid is the exclusive UK and Irish distributor for Mimaki, whose products are available through its network of specialist resellers.

Eurobond Adhesives celebrates 30 years serving the Sign Industry

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 17 Mar 2014 17:00:00 +0000

This year Eurobond Adhesives celebrate 30 years of supplying high performance adhesives and tapes to the sign making industry. To mark their landmark 3 decades in business they plan a series of special promotions and new product launches throughout the year.

Eurobondâs owner and managing director Simon Dearing explains, âSince the company was formed in 1984 we have amassed a huge amount of experience and knowledge in many different aspects of sign making. And, over the years our technical experts have designed specialist products which include PenlocÂ® our 2-part structural adhesive and our EB range of structural tapes that meet the exacting demands of just about every sign making application.

I take great pride in our company ethos, which is to listen, specify, train and equip our customers with the products and skills they need to carry out their job in a quick, efficient and professional way. Over the years we have worked in partnership with many thousands of sign making companies big and small throughout Europe. It has always been our aim to provide first class, high performance and cost effective products, backed up by excellent customer service and technical support.

Simon Dearing continued, âwe would like to thank all our customers for their loyal support over the last 30 years and we look forward to working with them and forging new business partnerships in the years to come. Look out for some inspirational new Eurobond product launches at the Sign & Digital Show.

One such product is Snap&Fix, an innovative new product offering sign makers and designers, production and manufacturing managers a whole new world of possibilities for permanently or temporarily fixing two materials together.

Snap&Fix is a fastening system that works on the principle of interlocking plastic âmushroom headsâ which provide a solid connection when pressed firmly together. They form a âvery strongâ and durable bond between two substrates. Snap&Fix is supplied on a roll with a high strength adhesive backing or as small rigid countersunk plastic blocks and squares which can be fixed to walls or hard surfaces to act as fixing points which can then be mated with another block to form permanent or temporary mounting. Snap&Fix can be fastened and released as often as required. Snap&Fix is ideal for fixing inspection panels, cover plates, hoardings, facias and sign panels. It will bond together most metals, modern composites, wood, glass and many different plastics. Snap&Fix is totally weatherproof and is not affected by most contaminants.

"We will be demonstrating Snap&Fix and our Penloc range of fast curing structural âsignmakingâ adhesives and our range of high performance adhesive tapes at the Sign & Digital show. Come and talk to us and claim your FREE pot of surface cleaning wipes (whilst stocks last). We are on stand F51."

Additional date added to FESPA Eurasia 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 17 Mar 2014 05:00:00 +0000

FESPA Eurasia will take place at CNR Expo Istanbul, Turkey, from 4th to 7th December 2014, in a change to the originally announced dates.Â The event has been extended to four days in response to exhibitor demand, while the later timing also reflects feedback from suppliers who suggested this timing would be optimal.

âThe marketâs response to the first FESPA Eurasia has been extremely enthusiastic, with many exhibitors telling us that FESPA is a breath of fresh air in the region,â explains FESPA Group Exhibition Manager Michael Ryan. âAfter any launch event, we enter close dialogue with our exhibitors to shape the next event, take in their suggestions and meet their needs. Our Eurasia Partner Committee expressed a preference for December dates, and for a four-day show straddling a Saturday and Sunday, enabling the widest possible visitor audience to attend.â

In addition to the market being accustomed to an industry exhibition in December, a survey of FESPA Eurasia 2013 visitors affirms that December is the optimal time of year to attend a show. 60% of visitors set their investment budgets in January or February, indicating that FESPA Eurasia 2014 is perfectly timed for visiting printers from the region to explore equipment innovations and build any investments into their budgeting. 100% of respondents said that Thursday to Sunday are good days for them to attend an exhibition.

CÃ¼neydi Opak, CEO of Orafol Turkey comments, âFESPA Eurasia has brought a fresh soul to our market with its professional understanding of exhibitions and its determination to introduce international participants.â

His comments are reflected in feedback from RÄ±za BaÅoÄlu, General Manager Consultant at Lidya Group who says, âFESPA has brought a different atmosphere, discipline and enthusiasm to the market. FESPA brings together the focused target audience and exhibitor expectations in the right platform.â

Adem BÃ¼lbÃ¼l of Ãz Anadolu Chemical adds, âAs a globally known organisation, FESPA attracts the most outstanding companies in the print industry and FESPA gives us opportunities to introduce our products to the global market.â

The first FESPA Eurasia in 2013 attracted an international audience of almost 7000 individual senior decision makers from more than 98 countries. More than a quarter of visitors travelled to FESPA Eurasia from outside Turkey, with the most significant visitor groups coming from Bulgaria, Iran, Greece, Russia, Pakistan and Ukraine.

Neil Felton, FESPA CEO concludes, âWe very much value the opinions of our community, which make FESPA events what they are. This is why we take an active role in involving key stakeholders, sharing honest information and listening to their requirements, so that we can continue to build a strong event that serves the industry.â

For more information on FESPA Eurasia 2014, please visit www.fespaeurasia.com

GJ Plastics 'shakes up' the signage market

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 16 Mar 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Manchester-based GJ Plastics is fast becoming one of the âmovers and shakersâ in the signage market, with the company signing up as the Official sign and Branding Partner for Bury Football Club, also known as the âShakersâ.

The move into signage by GJ Plastics follows investment in equipment such as CNC routers, laser cutters, and a HP FB500 flatbed UV printer. Their latest purchase from City and West End Solutions in December 2013 was the Summa F1612 cutter.

âWe received an excellent service from CWE during the purchase of the HP FB500 printer, so we naturally talked to them about our requirement for a flatbed cutting table,â said Managing Director Graham Croston.Â âFrom the first initial discussions they provided all the information we needed; the Summa was installed promptly and their training was top class.â

Summaâs F Series is capable of cutting rigid materials as well as roll stock. Automatic tool recognition, combined with digital and mechanical depth control, ensures precision cutting on a wide variety of materials. The base unit comes equipped with a swivel knife tool module and an optical camera recognition system for accurate contour cutting of printed flexible or rigid substrate materials.

The Summa F1612 works alongside the FB500 UV flatbed printer to speed up the manufacturing processes on roller banners, Correx and Foamex signs, and has allowed the company to add cardboard engineering to their already wide product range.

âWe can now also manufacture our own cardboard packing boxes, which offers huge â" and unexpected - advantages for us,â added Graham. âWe soon realised that the ability to tailor make each box to be the perfect fit for our huge range of products would mean we no longer have to keep thousands of different sized boxes in stock, making a massive space saving and giving us reduced manufacturing costs.â

Bury FC purchased all its new interior signage from GJ Plastics, as well as the Correx sign boards around the pitch. The company also recently designed and manufactured new signage for Middlesbrough Football Clubâs training ground, signs in a 12-bed hospice, and bespoke in-store marketing solutions for B&Q, Jewson, Asda, Selfridges, museums, art galleries, the travel and leisure industry, JC Decaux, and Pets at Home to name but a few. They have also provided display solutions for a Formula 1 racing team and Wimbledon.

GJ Plastics has a highly skilled team, with three product CAD designers, three graphic designers and all production processes carried out by qualified engineers. This ensures they can produce any of their product portfolio available on www.gjplastics.co.uk, in a fast and efficient way, to their exacting quality standards.

Graham concludes, âWe expect to see continued growth over the next five years, and weâll continue to work with CWE in investing in new equipment to ensure we offer our trade partners and customers the highest quality products, delivered on time and competitively priced.â

FM-Tags purchases i-Sub Digital's Digi-Foil system to enhance offerings

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 16 Mar 2014 05:00:00 +0000

Surrey's FM-Tags went for an impulse buy at the Trophex show in January when it purchased a Digi-Foil system from i-Sub Digital â" having attended the show 'purely to see what's new out there'.

Nicola Funnell, Owner of FM-Tags, signed on the dotted line at i-Sub Digital's stand after seeing the Digi-Foil system in action. Digi-Foil uses a combination of a Mimaki UJF-3042FX desktop printer, foil material and a heated applicator to produce foiling effects identical to those produced by traditional methods, but with significant reductions in time and wastage. The system also enables the creation of colour-accurate packaging mock-ups â" output of a quality usually impossible to achieve using non-digital methods.

FM-Tags had already been using a Mimaki UJF-3042FX for around three years and saw the potential for running a second machine with the Digi-Foil system alongside it.

"I immediately saw how Digi-Foil can make the products we sell just a little bit more special," explains Funnell. "Having the two UJFs means we get the best of both worlds: we have the depth that foiling creates on one machine before moving over to the second one and using the varnish for decoration and embossing, and colour for bespoke products."

A family-run business specialising in personalisation, FM-Tags aims to help customers who have an idea of what they want to achieve the ideal bespoke product. It provides signage, tags and engraving and had previously offered hot foil effects. However, with traditional methods there was always a risk of overheating and damaging the product, Funnell explains. "With Digi-Foil you don't have that worry so it's opened the option up for us again," she says.

"We demonstrated Digi-Foil at Trophex knowing it would draw a crowd and we were obviously delighted to make the sale to FM-Tags there and then," comments Andy Spreag, Director, i-Sub Digital.

"Nicola and her team already had a Mimaki UJF-3042FX that they purchased a couple of years ago and had used this to move their business forward. The Digi-Foil system made possible with the new purchase has now opened up further opportunities for them."

Funnell admits the spontaneous purchase was unusual. "I would normally be nervous about buying something on the spot but because we already had a Mimaki and knew what it could do, it didn't faze me at all," she says.

"Digi-Foil just adds an extra step to a process we're already familiar with and since its installation it's working really well. I like to do things that people would think couldn't necessarily be achieved â" and Digi-Foil does that."

The Digi-Foil system â" available exclusively from i-Sub Digital â" will also be on show at Sign and Digital UK (April 29th to May 1st 2014, NEC, Birmingham). To book an appointment with i-Sub Digital at the show or at its demonstration facility in Kettering, please email info@i-subdigital.com

[Picture caption: Nicola Funnell ordered the Digi-Foil system at Trophex]

First European installation of Fujifilm Inca Onset S40i with white

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 15 Mar 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Fujifilm has announced that Arslan Digital in Turkey has taken delivery of the first Inca Onset S40i with double white ink capacity in Europe.

Based in Izmir, Arslan Digital is one of Turkeyâs leading wide format digital print companies. In operation for 12 years, the company specialises in large format digital printing and outdoor media, serving industries such as FMCG, retail, automotive, banking, real estate and trade fairs. Working predominantly via advertising agencies, including a number of global players, Arslan Digital has now set its sights on expanding into indoor and free standing display units, as well as packaging and corrugated applications.

âWe have been evaluating the market for some time now, tracking the progress of the leading wide format machine suppliers. We decided that the Inca Onset S40i with white from Fujifilm was the perfect solution for the future of our business because of its speed, reliability, quality, productivity and above all its engineering strength,â comments Mr Tevfik Arslan, owner of the company.

He continues: âThe white capability of the S40i means that, as a purely digital company, we can now compete against the screen printing businesses that have always had this capability. This is an extremely important step for us, and the S40i was the only device on the market that we felt made this a viable option, with the quality and speed at which it can lay down white.â

The 4-colour with white Onset S40i includes a double white ink capability, resulting in excellent print speeds when printing white onto a wide variety of premium quality graphic substrates. It incorporates 168 Fujifilm Dimatix printheads (56 for white) on a full width print array. As a result, the printer produces superb POS-quality display graphics economically at throughput speeds of up to 560 sqm/hr (CMYK only) equivalent to 112 full bed sheets/hr (3.14 x 1.6m), and onto substrates up to 50mm (2 in) thick. A choice of uni-directional, bi-directional and super high quality print modes can be selected depending on the specific job requirements. The printer uses Fujifilmâs Uvijet OZ ink system which provides excellent colour gamut, adhesion and finishing properties.

âWe have acknowledged for some time that Turkey is a strategically important and fast developing region. With an unquestionable track record of engineering, reliability and ability to deliver POP quality at high speed, the Inca Onset S40i fits the growing market need in Turkey really well,â comments Kevin Jenner, business manager wide format, Europe - Eastern Region, Fujifilm. âDespite there being a lot of market demand in Turkey and the Middle East, there are still lots of digital companies that currently donât have the capability to print a high-quality white. Historically, this has been technically challenging to achieve, but the unique combination of the Inca technology with Fujifilmâs Uvijet OZ ink formulation represents a breakthrough for applications requiring this capability.â

âWe are delighted to be partnering with Arslan Digital, as their company ethos fits well with that of Fujifilm, and we are certain that they will make the most of the capabilities of the machine. With such a positive outlook, we anticipate a long and fruitful partnership.â said Ahmet Kocaman, senior group manager of Fujifilm Turkey Graphic Systems.

Xaar launches 1002 GS6 printhead for UV applications

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 15 Mar 2014 05:00:00 +0000

Xaar has launched a new printhead (the Xaar 1002 GS6) for UV applications which the company says redefines the standard in single-pass printing, delivering exceptional print quality and productivity to manufacturers worldwide.

The Xaar 1002 GS6 has been developed and optimised for a wide range of UV applications; these include labels, laminates, direct-to-shape, packaging and other types of product decoration, where product quality and industrial levels of reliability are paramount.

The All New Xaar 1002 GS6 incorporates multiple new technology features, drawing on Xaarâs many yearsâ experience in a number of industry sectors, giving improved drop volume uniformity and drop placement accuracy for an even higher quality printed image. Featuring 1000 Optimised Geometry nozzles, the Xaar 1002 GS6 can jet and place drops with the highest precision on the market. As a result this new printhead produces high resolution text and images with smooth tones demanded by manufacturers globally.

A key feature of the All New Xaar 1002 is its ability to print heavily pigmented high opacity white inks and high viscosity varnishes extremely reliably, enabled by Xaarâs patented ink recirculation technology, TF Technologyâ¢.Â Therefore it is the ideal printhead for a wide range of UV applications including labels and printing onto clear packaging for bottles, where opaque backup whites and high build spot varnishes are essential.

The All New Xaar 1002 GS6 printhead builds on the outstanding success of the market-leading Xaar 1001 GS6 which has had a major impact on both printing and manufacturing industries world-wide, and is universally recognised as the leading industrial inkjet printhead. Manufacturers choose Xaar technology for its overall exceptional performance and unrivalled reliability which is delivered by Xaarâs TF Technologyâ¢ combined with the Hybrid Side-Shooterâ¢ architecture; this is the only true ink recirculation system which ensures maximum production uptime. Customer âease of useâ has also been enhanced by an improvement to the customer electronic interface and by enabling a reduction in the set up time required.

The Xaar 1002 GS6 is a highly versatile printhead. It is capable of handling a wide range of fluids and viscosity ranges and is backwards compatible with the Xaar 1001 GS6. Also available alongside the Xaar 1002 GS6 is a range of systems components â" including the new slimline HPC3, the XUSB and Xaar Hydra. These have been designed for easy configuration, optimisation and integration to reduce time to market. In addition, the improved uniformity of the Xaar 1002 GS6 allows manufacturers to configure narrow web and wide-format printers faster and more easily. Finally, as the Xaar 1002 GS6 is fully compatible with Xaar 1001 GS6-enabled printers, users can easily upgrade whenever they wish and experience the benefits immediately.

âThe original Xaar 1001 GS6 with its unique recirculating TF Technologyâ¢ kick started the digital inkjet revolution in the label, direct-to-shape and laminate sectors. The All New Xaar 1002 GS6, incorporating the very latest patented* technology, defines the next generation of printhead, setting the levels of quality and performance available to manufacturers in a variety of industries,â says Richard Barham, Sales and Marketing Director, Xaar.

âOur commitment to investing 12% of our revenue in R&D means that we will continue to deliver the very best inkjet technology to manufacturers globally, ensuring they benefit from a competitive advantage and a maximum return on their investment.â

Systems featuring the Xaar 1002 GS6 printhead are available now from a number of Original Equipment Manufacturers including Autobond, Durst, EFI, FFEI, Hymmen, INX Digital, KHS, Krones, Sacmi, SPG Prints and Till Engineering.

Kodak appoints Jeffrey J. Clarke as Chief Executive Officer

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 17:00:00 +0000

The Board of Directors of Eastman Kodak Company has elected Jeffrey J. Clarke as Chief Executive Officer and a member of its Board of Directors.

âJeff is the right person to lead Kodak forward. His combination of strengths and experience in technology, transformation, finance, operations, and international business is precisely what we set out to find in the next leader of Kodak. His past leadership positions have included businesses selling hardware, software and services, and printing â" with B2B customers as well as consumers. The Board evaluated many highly qualified and talented people during the search, but it was clear to all of us that Jeff was the one we wanted. We feel extremely confident about Kodakâs prospects with Jeff at the helm,â said James V. Continenza, chairman of the board. âI thank Antonio Perez for his excellent leadership of Kodak through its complex and successful restructuring, and for solidifying our relationships with our valued customers since that time.â

Clarke, 52, said, âI have enormous respect for the people of Kodak, and I am excited to join them in moving the company forward to new successes. This enterprise has some extraordinary opportunities, especially those presented by the companyâs proprietary technology in commercial printing, packaging and functional printing. Kodak has made excellent progress, building on one of the most successful reorganisations in recent years, and I look forward to continuing the work underway in transforming Kodak into a global B2B technology leader.

âMy first priority is to spend my time listening to Kodakâs employees, customers, partners and other stakeholders as part of a detailed evaluation of our operations, market opportunities and approach for success,â continued Clarke. âOnce that work is complete, I look forward to sharing our conclusions.â

Antonio M. Perez, now Special Advisor to the Board, said, âJeff Clarke is a talented and proven executive who is well qualified to lead Kodak through our next era, which I believe will be one of innovation and growth. I am excited about the next chapter in the future of this great company.â

Prior to joining Kodak, Clarke was a Managing Partner of Augusta Columbia Capital (ACC), a private investment firm focused on middle market technology and technology-enabled businesses that he co-founded in 2012. Prior to ACC, Clarke was the Chairman of Travelport, Inc., a private travel technology firm, where he served as CEO from 2006-2011, after leading its sale from Cendant Corporation to the Blackstone Group for $4.3 billion in 2006. During his tenure, Travelport successfully launched an IPO for its Orbitz business.

Clarke was the Chief Operating Officer of CA, Inc., an enterprise software company, from 2004-2006, where he was responsible for sales, services, distribution, corporate finance, mergers & acquisitions, information technology, corporate strategy and planning.

Clarke was an Executive Vice President at Hewlett-Packard Company from 2002-2003. As EVP of Global Operations, he was responsible for HP's worldwide supply chain, manufacturing, procurement and internet operations (HP.com). He also co-led HP's merger integration with Compaq Computer. Prior to HP, Clarke was the Chief Financial Officer of Compaq Computer, which he joined in 1998 following the merger of Compaq with Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC). At DEC from 1985-1998, he served in management roles in international operations, finance and manufacturing.

Clarke will continue to serve as Chairman of Orbitz Worldwide, a global online travel agency since 2007. He will also continue to serve on the boards of directors of Red Hat, Inc., an enterprise software company, and Compuware Corporation, an enterprise software company.

Clarke earned an MBA from Northeastern University, where he serves as a Trustee. He holds a B.A. in Economics from SUNY Geneseo. He grew up in Hamilton, N.Y.

SMGG returns to Sign & Digital UK 2014 with expansive array of wide-format solutions

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 05:00:00 +0000

Stanford Marsh Group Graphics (SMGG), the commercial graphics division of Stanford Marsh Group, returns to Sign & Digital UK in 2014 with an expansive array of wide-format print solutions for the signage sector.Â The company will be on Stand F70 and will be showcasing solutions from Mimaki, HP and others.Â SMGG will also been announcing exclusive show offers.

Widely regarded as a leading independent solutions provider for the wide-format print sector, SMGG was appointed by Mimakiâs exclusive UK & Ireland distributor, Hybrid Services, to the authorised Mimaki reseller network in November 2013.Â SMGG also offers wide-format solutions from Canon, Epson, HP, Mutoh and OcÃ© amongst others.

At Sign & Digital UK 2014, SMGG will be demonstrating Mimakiâs CJV wide-format printer/cutter machine on stand.Â The Mimaki CJV30 Series is a multi-award winning, 'all in one' machine sporting high-end features.Â It is delivered with up to 2 years comprehensive Gold warranty, a full set of 8 inks, a take-up unit and a powerful software bundle including RasterLink PostScript RIP, FineCut cutting software and a design creation package.

SMGG will also be showing the latest HP latex printer and an HP DesignJet aqueous machine at the event.Â This versatile machine enables print service providers to meet a wider range of customer needs with high-quality, outdoor and indoor applications such as high-impact POP displays, soft signage, bus shelters, vehicle graphics, and more.Â The HP L260 printer is capable of printing on a broad range of materials, including vinyl, fabrics, paper, film, and low-cost uncoated options.

Launch of new media range

The supply of consumables is a major part of SMGGâs overall business, with distribution across the entire UK â" most of which is delivered by next-day service using SMGGâs own transport.Â The company encourages customers to optimise the use of their new equipment and re-order the most appropriate ink and media along the way.Â At Sign & Digital UK 2014, SMGG will be announcing a new range of media specifically aimed at professionals that wish to reduce their cost of consumables yet maintain a high quality standard â" âPrint media that delivers at the right priceâ.Â More details of this exciting range will be announced during the run-up to the show.

Adrian Painter, Director at SMGG, comments, âAs a truly independent supplier of an extremely wide range of printing solutions, we are able to offer sound advice on how to get the best performance from any given machine.

âOur clients are unique with differing applications, expectations and standards. It is our job to understand where our customers wish to be, share the vision they have for their business and help them achieve those goals by aiding them through what otherwise would be a difficult process or decision.

âI for one wouldnât want to visit Sign UK and be expected to come away with a clear enough understanding of the right machine to buy.Â You wonât find one that produces a bad print, claims to have poor quality or narrow colour gamut. They will all be âwonderful, the fastest on the market and at a great priceâ. But what SMGG will do is listen to your needs and recommend what we believe to be the âright solutionâ. Sounds simple and surely what everyone would do?

âNot so, in my opinion,â adds Painter, âbut itâs what weâve done for almost 50 years in our trading history and why customers return to our business time and time again.â

SMGG provided a pre-launch look at the Xerox IJP2000 at last yearâs event and hopes to have another new and exciting device amongst this yearâs line-up.Â The company also attracted a lot of attention with 3D print, which â" albeit not aimed at this market - continues to be a hot topic and tipped to be the ânext industrial revolutionâ.Â See www.smg3d.co.uk if you are interested in the markets and applications of 3D print.

For more information on SMGG, please visit www.smgg.co.uk

Canon to dive deeper into wide format print at FESPA

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 13 Mar 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Canon will demonstrate its capability to offer customers a single source for all their wide format solution and service needs at FESPA Digital. Visitors to the stand (Hall B1, Stand 310) will be able to learn about the array of large format printers, software and substrates that, supported by outstanding service, represent the full breadth and diversity of Canonâs offerings to the market.

Committed to inspiring customers to achieve business growth and driving innovation in wide format printing, Canon Europe will also be showcasing a variety of customer success stories and applications, including bespoke printed wallpaper and laminated flooring, all enabled by its wide format technologies. Canon customer, Marco de Wert of Sanders Group (www.magnetservice.com) will also be explaining to the Digital Conference Theatre audience (at 15.00-15.30 on Thursday 22 May) how wide format printing transformed his business.

With OcÃ©âs expertise and technology now fully integrated into its wide format portfolio, Canon is better positioned than ever to help Print Service Providers (PSPs) to extend their service offerings and become exceptional service providers.

Whatever a customerâs core business, the Canon stand will provide the inspiration and innovation to help them identify areas in which to grow their business across the fast-growing wide format market. It will demonstrate to visitors how the combination of Canonâs imaging heritage with industry-leading OcÃ© technology provides customers with the ultimate business partner.

The portfolio of wide format solutions being exhibited on the Canon stand will range from roll-fed inkjet and UV flatbed printers, through workflow solutions and digital cutting tables, to the full range of Canon substrates. Highlights will include:

The OcÃ© Arizona 480GT, the marketâs most versatile UV flatbed printer, with eight independent ink channels and the capability to print a decorative varnish or white layer on a large variety of substrates, including glass, laminated flooring and membrane switch overlays. It can create exciting and high value applications for Point-of-Sale (POS), signage and specialty applications
The OcÃ© ColorWave 900, which, thanks to raw speeds of up to 1,000 square metres per hour and powerful workflow, offers unprecedented large format colour production capabilities
The OcÃ© ColorWave 650 Poster Printer with its OcÃ© CrystalPoint imaging technology for instantly dry poster prints for cost-effective, high-quality POS prints delivered on demand on a wide range of media
The OcÃ© ProCut digital flatbed cutter â" an automated cutting system that can streamline wide format digital printer workflow from prepress to finishing, delivering exceptional cut quality, versatility and productivity for all display graphic applications
The Canon imagePROGRAF iPF9400, which incorporates LUCIA EX, Canonâs innovative 12-colour pigment inkjet system with image processing technology, to give the finest results for production, photographic and fine art applications.

Duncan Smith, Wide Format Group Director, Canon UK & Ireland, comments, âThe wide format market is one sector of the printing industry that is continuing to expand because of the growing number and variety of exciting applications that can be realized on wide format digital printers. Thanks to the unrivalled combination of printing and finishing systems, RIP and workflow software, substrates and services we can offer customers, Canon is ideally positioned as an expert source to satisfy all indoor and outdoor graphic arts wide format demands and to support companies in the long-term growth of their businesses. We want to help our customers to become exceptional service providers, so Iâd invite them to come and find inspiration on the Canon stand â" they wonât be disappointed.â

Ipex to showcase rapidly expanding printing technologies

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 13 Mar 2014 05:00:00 +0000

Visitors to Ipex 2014, being held at ExCeL London, later this month, will see the printed products and technologies that are set for rapid expansion over the next few years. The Future Innovations Zone â" located in the South Hall â" will feature live demonstrations and expert advice from three growing markets â" photo product printing, printed electronics and 3D printing.

The market for photo products â" such as books, calendars and other promotional material â" continues to enjoy explosive growth because of customer demand and the relatively high margins they carry. Visitors will see end-to-end workflow that demonstrates how printers can create a range of different high value bespoke products using digital images, facilitated by a collaboration between Ashgate, Duplo, Konica Minolta, Lumejet, Renz and Taopix, with staff on hand to explain the opportunities this market presents.

Meanwhile electronics can be a pivotal component of a printed piece to introduce an element of interactivity, such a posters featuring instruments that can be played, and packaging that lights up. With further advancements anticipated that could revolutionise the way electronic goods such as mobile phone and digital displays are manufactured, a selection of companies â" including Ceradrop (an MGI Group company), Printed Electronics Ltd (PEL), Novalia and Ryedale Group â" will be expanding on this exciting market and what it could mean for the future of the print industry. Ceradrop will be showcasing the benefits of printed electronics through its CeraPrinter X-Serie machine, while PEL will be handing out samples of printed circuits from a demonstration machine on the stand, as well as bringing examples of print and packaging that incorporate printed circuits.

The zone will also look at the rapid rise of 3D printing. Treating it as an extension of 2D printing, visitors will discover how a third dimension can enhance a customerâs proposition in packaging and high end printing, with London Graphics Systems and Hobs 3D on hand to discuss the design and creation of 3D technology for the print, packaging and media industry. The emphasis is on how 3D designand printing forms part of a 2Dworkflow rather than something far removed from the industryâs experience.

âWeâre delighted to support the Future Innovations Zone at Ipex,â says Ben Fitzwilliams of London Graphics Systems. âWith 3D printing ubiquitous in the news at the moment, weâre sure that many of the eventâs visitors will have many questions about the potential of the technology and what it could one day mean for their business. We have created a specialised 3D printing division within LGS that is well versed in this area and consequently will be able to provide insights into this exciting field.â

Miles Bentley, Commercial Director, Lumejet, comments, âThe use of photographic imagery in printed marketing literature has increased notably over the last few years, helping to consolidate printâs position as an important part of the marketing mix. This continuing trend, coupled with the emergence of photobook production as one of the fastest growing areas of the professional printing business, has resulted in new high margin revenue streams for print service providers. The Future Innovations Zone provides an opportunity for professional print providers to see the full value chain from creation to finishing and to see how easy it is to get involved in this potentially lucrative market.â

'Weâre looking forward to participating in the Future Innovations Zone at Ipex 2014,â says Chris Jones, Novalia Printed Electronics. âThe potential for printed electronics is enormous, and weâll give visitors a taster of what can be achieved via Novaliaâs interactive print applications at the event. Whether it is instantly downloading product information from a shop window via your smartphone, hearing additional content by simply touching a magazine cover or using printed adverts with a built-in social media sharing button, itâs an exciting field to be involved in, and we really hope the visitors will be as enthusiastic as we are.â

Trevor Crawford, Event Director, Ipex 2014 concludes, âIpex explores all levels and areas of the print supply-chain that will be relevant to visitors now and in the future. Photo product printing, printed electronics and 3D printing are all very exciting markets that could generate new revenue streams for visitors. With inspiration a key theme of Ipex, the Future Innovations Zone provides a snapshot of what the future could hold beyond traditional print applications.â

Fujifilm to showcase wide format applications at FESPA Digital 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 12 Mar 2014 17:00:00 +0000

Fujifilm's stand at FESPA Digital 2014 (Munich, May 20th â" 23rd) will be focused on the high quality applications possible with the companyâs range of wide format solutions. Stand 530, Hall B1 expands on the application-orientated design used at FESPA 2013, and will showcase exceptional print in its typical environment.

As a key supplier to the wide format industry, with a long heritage and unparalleled expertise in ink manufacture for large format print, Fujifilm will demonstrate a wide variety of solutions for print service providers of all sizes, highlighting the versatility of its products and technologies, and how productivity and quality has improved year on year. Combined with its leading Uvijet UV inkjet inks, the company is able to offer a solution to fit every requirement, across POP and light industrial applications. It will also demonstrate how its advanced web-to-print system, XMF PrintCentre, makes it possible for companies to expand by selling their print products online.

On show will be a new Inca Onset model in the Q family, which utilises the scaleable architecture announced at the end of 2013, allowing for printhead and ink platform expansion without machine replacement. This model will be shown with full automation for the first time at a FESPA show, allowing visitors to see sheets taken from pallets directly onto the print bed.

To extend the application of the Onset platform, Fujifilm will be launching two brand new inks at FESPA: Uvijet OH, which offers greater adhesion widening the application possibilities; and Uvijet OL, a low odour corrugated ink aimed at display and secondary packaging.

Fujifilmâs super-wide format printer, the Uvistar Pro8 running with Uvijet QN ink, which now boasts a new white ink which has also been developed to increase the scope of possible applications. This ink will allow users to produce super-wide format posters which can be illuminated for either day or night usage.

From Fujifilmâs renowned family of mid-range printers, this yearâs FESPA show will feature the Acuity Advance HS, ideal for high-quality POP and signage on rigid and roll materials at up to 64m2/hr true production speeds, alongside the Acuity LED 1600. This LED UV hybrid roll-fed printer features a number of unique Fujifilm technologies, including a low-energy LED curing system, and is suitable for rigid and very thin flexible materials with best in class productivity of 20m2/hr.

Finally, a euromedia zone will show a wide variety of new and established creative media for every application. With products that cover waterbased, solvent, latex and UV printing system applications, Fujifilm also has a unique offering of âapproved mediaâ which carry a designated logo and demonstrate that these materials have been tested thoroughly on Fujifilm printers, and that ICC profiles for the most important RIPs are already available. This is a time and cost saving package for printers that only Fujifilm offers.

Working across all of the companies wide-format devices, Fujifilmâs cloud-based web-to-print solution, XMF PrintCentre, which allows companies to create multiple e-commerce web stores for selling print, and manages the whole print buying process from online purchasing through to delivering print-ready PDF files into any PDF print production system, will also be demonstrated on stand. This âall in oneâ solution to web-to-print provides an easy means for print companies to manage their own e-commerce system and meet the demanding needs of their clients.

âWeâve spent the last year refining and further developing UV inkjet inks for our leading wide format systems as well as introducing a new member of the Onset family. With the variety of options we are now able to supply, we are confident that we can demonstrate to visitors the versatility and power of UV inkjet systems that take advantage of our world-leading Uvijet ink chemistry. With groundbreaking speed, quality and performance, this combination, together with our leading workflow solutions, can produce exceptional quality print for an endless array of end applications,â comments Tudor Morgan, systems marketing manager - high end at Fujifilm Speciality Ink Systems.

He continues, âFor the first time at a FESPA Digital show, we will also be able to show how Fujifilm technologies can be used for light industrial applications as well as for more traditional retail jobs. This will present exciting opportunities for print service providers to extend their presence and business reach, which can only be a good thing for the industry.â

[Image shows Fujifilm's Uvistar Pro8 super-wide format printer.]

FESPA's education programme shaping up

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 12 Mar 2014 05:00:00 +0000

The educational programme for FESPA Digital 2014 is already taking shape, with an early line-up of compelling presentations on the most critical topics across Digital, Fabric and Signage.

All education sessions and workshops within FESPA Digital will be delivered in four themed âhubsâ, giving visitors a clear destination within the exhibition if they want to find information, insight and inspiration on Digital, Fabric, Signage and Wrap.

Reflecting FESPA Digitalâs call to printers to âdive deeper into digitalâ, Ron Gilboa of prominent industry research organisation Infotrends will deliver a tailored keynote presentation in the Digital, Fabric and Signage Hubs on Day One of the show, focussing on existing opportunities, and offering guidance to FESPA visitors on how to develop their business. These sessions will provide visitors with invaluable pointers to bear in mind as they take in the many innovations to be found on the FESPA Digital show floor.

Print media business expert Ulrich Smets will present in German in all hubs, on a range of topics designed to optimise financial management, including cost calculations; cost advantages of digital vs analogue processes; controlling solutions; business planning; credit; and bank ratings.

In the Digital hub, visitors with an interest in optimising colour reproduction will benefit from four separate workshops from digital colour expert Marco Olivotto on Understanding Colour Settings; Unleashing the Power of LAB; The Gamut Riddle and How to Solve It; and PDFs for the Digital Printing Age.

The Digital Hub will offer various sessions focused on industrial print, including Wolfgang Mildner of PolyIC, who will address the growth market for printed electronics, and Thomas Struckmeier, owner of BlasÃ© GmbH, a leading German producer of print for industrial applications.

Digital Hub delegates can also hear from the buyerâs perspective, in a key session delivered by Deutsche Bahn AGâs print procurement manager Carola Lammich. Frau Lammich will speak about the companyâs strategic approach to print suppliers, highlighting Deutsche Bahnâs print requirements and how they are likely to develop, interaction with suppliers and the impact of EU public procurement law on print purchasing.

Visitors on Thursday 22nd May can hear from Sanders Group, an expert in printed magnetic products, and Roland Hill of Contravision will also tackle the important topic of Intellectual Property for Printers, advising printers on how to avoid falling foul of copyright legislation.

Other Digital Hub sessions will focus on business growth opportunities for printers, including digitally printed interiors, web2print, personalisation, and promotional products. Practical advice on printhead maintenance will be delivered by FESPA technology partner Xaar.

Sessions confirmed in the Fabric Hub include Christopher Bernat of Vapor Apparel, talking about the opportunity to Grow with Sublimation Apparel and Accessories. A second session from Christopher will offer a âTechnology Reality Tourâ of Sublimation vs Direct-to-Garment.

Turning to home textiles, Thomas Poetz of Printed Interior Decoration will speak in English and German to advise printers on successfully entering the home textile market with inkjet technology.

Sign makers looking for new opportunities can head to the Signage Hub to hear from Daniel Parisien of Broadsign, with his presentation entitled âWhat Your Mother Never Told You About Digital Signageâ. His colleague and content marketing specialist Stephanie Gutnik will focus in a separate session on âHow Network Operators Can Succeed at Selling Advertisingâ.

The Signage Hub will also host the European Sign Federation Awards on Thursday 22nd May.

Each hub will also offer tailored business advice sessions addressing areas such as efficiency, sales and marketing and finance.

The Wrap Hub will see pro wrappers compete in the World Wrap Masters 2014, while every visitor will have the chance to try wrapping head-to-head to gain an appreciation of the challenges inherent in the craft. Each day will see a âtips and tricksâ session hosted by expert wrappers, where they share their experience and knowledge with visitors keen to improve their technique. There will also be a variety of items being wrapped â" showcasing the versatility of wrapping beyond vehicles.

FESPA Head of New Media & Events Duncan MacOwan comments, âAs we start to flesh out each stream of our Digital 2014 educational programme, weâre confident that the four hubs in Munich will deliver everything that visitors need to help them dive deeper into the many business growth opportunities that exist in the digital wide format printing space. Each hub will offer a rich blend of technical, practical, factual and inspirational content, delivered by internationally respected experts in their individual fields. Delegates will head out onto the exhibition floor with fresh insights and expert guidance to inform their business decisions at the show and beyond.â

Sessions in each hub will run from 11.00h until 17.00h from Tuesday 20th to Thursday 22nd May, and until 14.00h on Friday 23rd May. All conference session and workshops are free of charge to visitors registered for FESPA Digital, FESPA Fabric or European Sign Expo. To pre-register, visit the FESPA Digital website at www.fespa.com/digital.

The detailed programme and session times can be viewed at www.fespa.com/digital/features.