07 Jan 2025

Gobet Production brings 100th anniversary celebrations of Nobel Peace Prize to the streets of Geneva

 


Challenge

  • Print high-quality graphics for the "Making Peace" photo exhibition celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Nobel Peace Prize
  • Provide graphics that reflect International Peace Bureau environmental policies

Solution

  • HP Designjet L65500 Printer (now known as HP Scitex LX600 Printer)
  • HP Designjet L25500 Printer
  • HP HDPE Reinforced Banner

Results

  • High-quality photographic prints to help keep in line with International Peace Bureau environmental policies
  • Increased awareness of peace-keeping initiatives throughout the world
  • A better working environment for Gobet employees

 

Gobet Production SA is an innovative advertising printing company that has been at the forefront of technological innovation since it was founded in 1990. Based in Geneva, Switzerland, Gobet specialises in production of vehicle wraps, adhesives, posters and billboards for advertising. The decision to invest in the HP Latex technologies was based on the printer's exceptional print quality and - through use of water-based HP Latex Inks - the improved working environment it offered Gobet employees while providing customers with solvent-free prints. The HP technology proved so efficient that a year after purchasing its first 2.6m HP Designjet L65500 Printer, Gobet Production invested in a second L65500 and a 1.067m HP Designjet L25500 Printer.

The "Making Peace" campaign was developed to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Nobel Peace Prize and the International Peace Bureau (www.ipb.org), a federation of over 300 NGOs and the largest peace federation in the world that first awarded the Nobel peace prize in 1910. More than just an historical exhibition, the campaign is a tribute to peace-makers around the globe and individuals who have made a contribution - however small - to the peace-making process. Making Peace (www.makingpeace.org) also has educational ambitions, and is to be rolled out in schools throughout the world over the coming year.

Advertising Peace

The International Peace Bureau developed a very simple explanation for peace to reach an audience as young as the age of five, using five colours to illustrate the five core components of sustainable peace:

  • Disarmament and nonviolence
  • Conflict prevention and resolution
  • Economic and social justice
  • Human rights, law and democracy
  • Environment and sustainable development

The month-long Making Peace outdoor photo exhibition in Geneva in June and July 2010 used these colours to present the international movement for peace in its broadest sense, and demonstrate how its participants have shaped and influenced the course of the 20th century.

Gobet Production's work for the International Peace Bureau comprised fifty advertising billboards and over one hundred panels for the exhibition.

"Once the files had been finalised, the test prints completed and the files adjusted, we had just three days to produce the whole exhibition from start to finish - advertising billboards and panels covering a 350m surface along the promenade in Geneva," said Ashley Woods, exhibition curator, International Peace Bureau. "Gobet managed to produce striking prints with vibrant hues within an incredibly short time-frame."

The HP latex printer uses thermal inkjet technology and produces prints that come off dry, ready for lamination, packaging, shipping or display. While graphics printed with solvent-inks need to "off-gas" for at least 24 hours before further handling or shipment, those printed with HP Latex Inks are ready from the printer, cutting delivery/installation times, and giving users a further competitive edge.

"The environmental aspect of the printing was fundamental and as well as the latex inks, we used recycled plastic whereas one would usually use aluminium or a similar type of backing," said Woods. "We could not however, compromise durability as the outdoor exhibition lasted over a month."

Outdoor prints produced with HP Latex Printing technologies on original HP media achieve display permanence of up to three years unlaminated and up to five years laminated and are scratch, smudge and water resistant.(1)

A better environment, outdoors and indoors

Over the years, Gobet Production has built a solid reputation for printing advertising materials and offers a full advertising production service that includes printing, laminating and mounting.

"When we purchased our first HP latex printer, we wanted to invest in a solution that could help reduce the impact on the environment but we couldn't risk having to increase our prices," said Philippe Julliand, partner, Gobet Production. "HP was the only manufacturer that was able to supply a printer of such quality without compromising economic efficiency. If we were to invest in another printer, it would be a no-brainer: HP would be the one manufacturer we would go to."

Health and safety were also critical in the choice of printer, as Gobet's employees were handling potent solvents that emit fumes and a strong smell. HP Latex prints provide many of the benefits of solvent-ink technology without imposing typical environmental, health and safety considerations. Odourless prints(2) produced with HP Latex Inks emit extremely low levels of volatile organic compounds. No special ventilation is required to meet occupational exposure limits and there are no requirements for air discharge(3).

Gobet Production reports excellent client feedback following the purchase of the HP latex printer: "We have reinforced our position as a leading, innovative service provider and our existing clients have given us more work, which is why we had to invest in a second Designjet L65500 and a Designjet L25500," concluded Julliand.

 

(1) HP image permanence and scratch, smudge, and water resistance estimates by HP Image Permanence Lab. Display permanence tested according to SAE J1960 using HP Latex and low-solvent inks on a range of media, including HP media, in a vertical display orientation in simulated nominal outdoor display conditions for select high and low climates, including exposure to direct sunlight and water; performance may vary as environmental conditions change. Scratch, smudge, and water resistance tested using HP Latex and solvent inks on a wide range of HP media. Laminated display permanence tested using Neschen Solvoprint Performance Clear 80 laminate. Results may vary based on specific media performance.

(2) Printers using HP Latex Inks use internal heaters to dry and cure the latex polymer film. Some substrates may have inherent odour.

(3) Special ventilation is not required to meet US OSHA requirements on occupational exposure to VOCs from HP Latex Inks. Ventilation equipment installation is at the discretion of the customer-no specific HP recommendation is intended. Typically no air discharge permitting required with inks that emit extremely low levels of VOCs. Customers should consult state and local requirements and regulations.

 

GTMS produces perfect pins for film promo project

Leading event production company GTMS undertook its most quirky project to date when it dressed and delivered 100 pairs of mannequin legs and printed floor graphics, to promote the launch of The Hole 3D.

The mannequin legs were dressed in jeans, white socks and black trainers and the 100 floor graphics sets were designed to make it look as though the person had disappeared down the hole.

Paul Logan, Managing Director at Logans Run Print Management, GTMS’ client said, “The mannequin legs were exactly as we had envisaged and so was the response from the public. The display became a real talking point and GTMS’ succeeded in undertaking the project with confidence, ease and to a tight deadline.”

GTMS also undertook the delivery of the legs to cinemas nationwide to ensure they were in place ready for the launch of the Joe Dante suspense thriller.

Dominik Short, Director at GTMS said, “Undertaking weird and wonderful requests is par for the course at GTMS but this project is definitely one of our most unusual.

“The finished installation looked extremely effective and caused quite a stir when cinema goers spotted the legs. This project combined our production, printing and project management skills to create a highly visual promotional tool,” added Dom.

GTMS provides exceptional large format print services for large scale and complex projects, in addition to offering Design and Build and event production services. With 25 years’ experience under its belt and a wealth of prestigious clients including the BBC, Bacardi, Fat Face and an array of experiential, marketing and PR agencies, GTMS takes care of every aspect from the initial design through to the production and installation by its expert team.

The forward-thinking team of 30 employees operates from under one roof – a 38,000 sq. ft purpose-built site complete with offices, workshops and warehouse.

 

Vista System’s unique wayfinding signage was recently installed at My Baby Centre, the biggest toy shop in Israel

 

Vista System International, a world leader in Modular Curved Frame Technology (MCFT), recently supplied a unique, custom made wayfinding solution to “Studio Keren”, for installation at “My Baby” centre, the biggest toys & baby products shop in Israel, located in Yirca in the northern Galilee.

The Client needed a unique signage solution for one of the project's challenges: 6 pylons, to fit perfectly around existing concrete columns. The solution had to be elegant and stylish.

The Client chose Vista System for its flexibility, stylish design and competitive price. Ten Vista Light profiles were combined to create a wrap-a-round for each column. The solution was creative, precise and a perfect match for the client’s requirements.

The project was completed swiftly to the full satisfactory of the client and at a very low price compared to traditional custom made signs.

Modular Curved Frame Technology (MCFT) is a new concept for the sign industry designed to fill the gap between modular and custom made signs.  MCFT offers the best of both worlds by offering the advantages of a modern modular system with the ability to provide a highly customisable solution that meets the unique requirements for each project.

 

Banner boosts chances of finding baby’s bone marrow match

 

HFC

Hampshire Flag Company has played a key role in encouraging people in the Portsmouth area to join the bone marrow register in a bid to find a match for a four-month old who desperately needs a transplant.

The leading flag manufacturer produced the 12ft x 3ft banner for free in just one day following a request from The News in Portsmouth after it launched the campaign to find a bone marrow match for Jasmine Andrew who was born with a rare and potentially life-threatening immune system deficiency which means she is constantly vulnerable to infections and viruses.

Emmanuel Andrew, Jasmine’s father said, “We really appreciate the support of the Hampshire Flag Company. The banner is eye-catching and has really helped to rally support and to encourage potential donor volunteers.”

The Hampshire Flag banner which was manufactured from PVC, printed on a DuPont Chromaprint 22UV and finished on a Miller Weldmaster, was hung from the Civic Offices in Portsmouth’s Guildhall Square for the sign-up session which was supported by the Anthony Nolan Charity.

Graham Wilkinson, Hampshire Flag Company’s Managing Director said, “It was a ‘yes’ from the moment we were approached to produce the banner. Encouraging people to come forward is so important and we hope that the campaign finds a match for baby Jasmine.”

Hundreds of people turned out to sign up to the bone marrow donor database including Linvoy Primus, former Portsmouth Football Club player.

Hampshire Flag also offers a bespoke flag design service, PVC banners, marine flags, bunting, table flags, exhibition graphics and event systems in addition to the supply and installation an extensive range of flagpoles.

Its prestigious portfolio of clients includes Selfridges, the BBC, Channel 4, Portsmouth Football Club, IBM and British Airways. The multi-award winning firm provides on-going support for various charities and expeditions including Action for Kids, Samaritans and for swimmer and environmentalist Lewis Pugh’s on-going feats.

 

Red Devils freefall onto flag for bereaved military families

 

Children and families who have suffered the loss of a serving loved one were treated to a once in a lifetime experience when the Red Devils Parachute Regiment Freefall Team jumped and landed on a bespoke flag produced by one of the country’s leading flag firms.

Hampshire Flag Company donated the 3x3m digitally dye printed flag to FAB, a Ministry of Defence charitable initiative which supports bereaved military families by providing activity holidays.

The Red Devils accurately landed on the flag, which was printed with the FAB logo, when they jumped into Whitby Abbey during FAB’s final activity break of 2010. The team then culminated the event by playing football with the bereaved children who were on the break.

Captain Karen Tait, the Media Officer and volunteer for FAB said, “FAB is all about encouraging confidence, friendships and peer support, and having the Red Devils jump for the children and play football with them was an incredible adventure.

“The landing flag printed with the FAB logo not only had a real visual impact but also helped the children to feel part of the project. Hampshire Flag’s generosity and support has been invaluable and we are very grateful for their donation,” added Karen.

Hampshire Flag’s team of 21 produces hand-sewn national and international flags and digitally printed banners.

Managing Director of the Waterlooville firm, Graham Wilkinson, said, “FAB offers bereaved families and children fantastic opportunities to have a break and to try something new.

“We are delighted to support this worthwhile cause by donating the landing flag and it is great to think that is has been used for such a spectacular event and has raised the project’s profile,” said Graham.

Hampshire Flag also offers a bespoke flag design service, PVC banners, marine flags, bunting, table flags, exhibition graphics and event systems in addition to the supply and installation an extensive range of flagpoles.

Its prestigious portfolio of clients includes Selfridges, the BBC, Channel 4, Portsmouth Football Club, IBM and British Airways. The multi-award winning firm provides on-going support for various charities and expeditions including Action for Kids, Samaritans and for swimmer and environmentalist Lewis Pugh’s on-going feats.

 

63,000 signs for 147 stores: all in a month's work for Gardners and HP


Challenge

  • Produce 750 different signs for 147 stores (total 63,000 signs).
  • Ensure signs are delivered to the right stores, packed in order according to store aisles.
  • 24/7 productivity to handle huge capacity without impacting other customers.

Solutions

  • HP SmartStream Designer solution for variable data printing (VDP).
  • 2 x HP Scitex FB7500 Printers, working around the clock for one month to print total of 12,600 sheets.
  • Also: HP Scitex LX800 Printer, HP Scitex XP2300 Printers, HP Scitex TJ8600 Printer, HP Scitex TJ8350 Printers, HP Scitex XP5100 Printers, HP Scitex FB6100 Printer, HP Designjet L25500 Printer, HP Designjet 9000s Printer, HP Designjet Z6100 Printer.

Results

  • Massive job completed in record time due to VDP powered logistical capabilities, high print quality, colour matching.
  • Reduced studio time by 70 percent, simplified finishing and packing.
  • Established successful new production model and replicated it for other customers.


Producing highly complex signage jobs depends on more than just advanced printing hardware. As complexity rises, so too does the importance of advanced software.

Richard Gardner, Chairman of Gardners, one of the world's largest digital printing companies, knows this better than most and he has spent years working with leading technology companies to build the best hardware and software platform for his growing business.

Founded in 1976 primarily as a screen printer, Gardners is now a totally digital operation serving many different industries and applications. A significant part of Gardners' work is printed on HP large format digital printers - an impressive lineup that now numbers 24 HP printers based on HP Latex Inks and UV-curable, aqueous, and lowsolvent/ solvent inks.

VDP that does more than variable printing

As a printing innovator, Gardners recognised that variable data printing (VDP), which has been widely used in small-format printing for some years, could also bring value to wide-format printing. The company initially developed its own VDP software for a few specific printers. Then, Gardners adopted the HP SmartStream Designer solution for VDP, enabling it to expand its VDP capabilities.

"The proposition is to use VDP not just on jobs that have changing images, but also on other things that might be only internal, says Gardner. "For instance, we use it to print files in collated order for easy packing for different branches, which is essentially 'print to pack'.

Variably printed signage arrives in perfect order

Recently, Gardners was asked by De Wild, a Dutch printing company, to produce a full set of store signage for Gamma, a major DIY franchise chain in the Netherlands. De Wild provides Gamma with complete in-store signage, including textile and other banners, point of sale displays, and more. Given the requirement to produce 750 different versions for 147 store locations - a huge job totaling approximately 63,000 different signs - Richard Gardner knew that the logistical challenges would have to be solved by software. The obvious solution: HP SmartStream Designer.

Gardners set up the job as 63,000 individual panels so that each panel was printed with a tiny code indicating exactly to which region, which store and which aisle each sign would go. Going beyond "print to pack", it was a perfect example of "print to pack to place".

"It was exceptionally complicated because we had to prepare an enormous amount of information to go into huge spreadsheets," recalls Gardner. "But, once it got to HP SmartStream Designer, it became relatively straightforward."

De Wild sales accountant Marianne Harmsen, who worked closely with Gardners to be sure everything went perfectly for De Wild's customer, says: "It sure made our life easier. At first we were a bit concerned about getting every sign in the right order in the right boxes. Then Gardners told us about the HP system and it became clear that they could put it in the right order, so there was no worry for us anymore. In the end, it was all printed in a few weeks, and there were no issues. It went very well."

Time savings across the board

Virtually every department of Gardners benefitted from using HP's VDP solution for this massive job - as did the end customer. Studio time was reduced by an estimated 70 percent; the finishing department gained by having all pieces automatically produced in the right order; the packing department saved time and complication because all pieces were numbered in sequence, eliminating the need to search for panels or boxes.

Ultimately, the end customer gained by reducing the time need to fit out an entire store with the new signage by an estimated 75 percent compared with previous store refits.

The Gamma signage project has brought benefits to Gardners far beyond the single huge order, as Gardners will be able to apply the same business and production model to other customers.

HP printer vital to business win

For the actual production, Gardners depended on its two HP Scitex FB7500 Printers. The two digital flatbed printers ran around the clock for approximately a month producing the approximately 1,32 x 0,55 m (4.32 x 1.8 ft) panels on 2mm (0.08 in) Foamex.

"I believe that without these two semi-automatic machines, we would not have been able to do the job," says Gardner. "We provided samples and our print quality was accepted above everybody else's."

Making digital printing a one-time sell Gardner is certain that the combination of VDP with high-productivity digital printing is only going to become more important. "We are competing with screen, offset, and other analogue processes. So if we can say to a customer: 'You can personalise every banner or every outdoor graphic or every point of sale.' That's a huge sell against analogue. And we've found that whenever a customer has come from analogue to digital, they never go back. It's a one-time sell; they get used to the production and to the variable data possibilities, and they enjoy it."