Mimaki

• Mimaki to feature innovative solutions at FESPA Eurasia
  4 Dec 2016

  

  Mimaki will present its leading range of solvent, textile and UV printers, designed to address key print production needs, on two booths at FESPA Eurasia.

• i-Sub offers free Digi-Foil system with Mimaki UJF-3042/UJF-6042 MkII printer orders
  30 Nov 2016

  

  i-Sub Digital has announced it will be giving away a free Digi-Foil DF system with every Mimaki UJF-3042 MkII and UJF-6042 MkII printer order placed before 22nd December 2016.

  The UJF-3042 MkII and the UJF-6042 MkII printers feature print speeds 20% faster than their predecessors, making them the perfect choice for sign and display companies seeking more productive and profitable ways to conduct business. They can print using a range of different inks, supporting a very wide range of applications with varying levels of abrasion resistance and flexibility up to 170%.
  With Mimaki’s PR-200 inkjet primer, printing on substrates normally considered beyond the reach of UV-printers is possible, including glass, metal and resins, and Mimaki Clear Control (MCC), a clear varnish ink, can be used to both highlight areas with spot or flood coating and deliver embossing with multiple passes.

  The UJF-3042 MkII and UJF-6042 MkII have the ability to print on objects up to 153 mm thick. Advanced functionality provides a print table that moves during printing to reduce vibration, delivers precise dot placement and enables high quality printing on a wide range of objects and materials. Operators can preset Mimaki Expand Color in the printers’ RasterLink digital front end for upgraded colour representation with more vibrant, solid colour and brighter tones.

  Mimaki Circulation Technology (MCT) circulates the White inks at regular intervals to ensure consistent solid White printed results. The printers’ fully enclosed print table improves safety while also keeping dust and other contaminants out of the system.

  The UJF-3042 MkII and UJF-6042 MkII printers are fully compatible with the i-Sub Digi-Foil DF system, exclusively available from i-Sub. Offering outstanding foiling effects onto virtually any material by skilfully blending traditional craft techniques with state-of-the-art technology, Digi-Foil delivers a vibrant range of digital foils that produce stunning quality finishes on virtually any substrate and offer foil effects identical to traditional foiling but faster and more cost-effectively.

  Presentation boxes, packaging (short run and proofing/mock-ups), promotional items, gifts, trophies and leather goods will benefit from the Digi-Foil touch, as will folders, control panels, phone cases and tablets or PCs. Almost every printable substrate can be given that luxurious foil effect quickly and easily.

  Digi-Foil's extensive range includes the following effects and finishes:

  •    Silver
  •    Gold
  •    Coloured metallics
  •    Woodgrains
  •    Holographic
  •    Watermarks
  •    Security marking
  •    Opaque
  •    Patterned, and many, many more

  With the ability to produce various finishes such as stippled, gloss or matt and the option to over-varnish on the Digi-Foil areas − or the whole printed area − the potential applications are endless and open up a whole new range of profitable and productive business opportunities.

  Delivering superior productivity, quality and flexibility the UJF-3042 MkII and the UJF-6042 MkII are the latest generation of UV flatbed printers from Mimaki. Priced from just £20,995, purchasers enjoy added value when they buy from i-Sub, including flexible finance options and trade-in offers on previous UJF models. Plus the incredible Digi-Foil DF system is completely free on orders for the UJF-3042 MkII and UJF-6042 MkII printers placed before 22 December 2016.

  Visit http://i-subdigital.com/mimaki-ujf-6042.html or call +44 (0)1536 415511 for more information.

• Mimaki Tx300P-1800 direct-to-textile printer proving to be a 'fashionable choice'
  23 Nov 2016

  

  Following its unveiling during ITMA Milan, the Mimaki Tx300P-1800 has put the manufacturer at the forefront of direct-to-textile printing bringing a flourish of UK and Irish installations of this versatile new printer.

  Mimaki’s UK & Ireland distributor, Hybrid Services, has seen strong uptake of the Mimaki Tx300P from both the education sector and within the textile printing industry, as the company’s National Sales Manager for Textile and Apparel, Stephen Woodall explains: “The Tx300P-1800 is flying since its launch and we’ve made significant sales resulting in stock shipping out as soon as it arrives in our warehouse. We’ve been busy installing Tx300s into various educational institutions for the start of the new academic year who have waited patiently for the right printer to upgrade their existing Mimaki TX2 printers, and with the product now shipping with competitively priced pigment, reactive, disperse and dye sublimation inks, we envisage this to continue into 2017 and beyond.”

  The Mimaki Tx300P-1800 inkjet printer is ideal for printing high quality output on all types of fabrics, including thicker and textured materials. This is made possible as the print-head height is adjustable from 2-7mm. The increased speed at which the ink droplets are fired also ensures accurate ink placement with the high head gap. The Tx300P is designed as an entry-level model and with its compact footprint, fits perfectly in places with limited floor space, such as design studios or school facilities.

  “Mimaki’s 4 colour pigment inks are proving superior to any alternatives on the market in terms of colour gamut, which will be further enhanced with the release of an 8 colour set by the end of the year,” continues Woodall. “Independent reseller tests have shown that their wash fastness and abrasion resistance is industry leading and this, coupled with print speeds of up to 68m² per hour, are making the Tx300P an attractive proposition.”

  Customers can arrange a demonstration of the Mimaki Tx300P-1800, or any of Mimaki’s other products, at Hybrid’s showroom by telephoning +44 (0)1270 501900. Additionally, an extensive selection of Mimaki Textile & Apparel products are available to view across the UK and Ireland through Hybrid’s specialist Textile and Apparel resellers. Further information can be found by visiting www.hybridservices.co.uk.
  
  

   

   

• New Mimaki UJF-6042 MkII lands on UK soil
  9 Nov 2016

  

  Following its unveiling at VISCOM Paris, the new and upgraded Mimaki UJF-6042 MkII small format UV flatbed printer has landed on UK soil and is now available for demonstration at UK and Irish Mimaki distributor Hybrid Services.

  The new A2 Mimaki UJF-6042 MkII offers a number of superior features over its highly successful predecessor, such as increased productivity with print speeds 20% faster than before and exceptional print quality. Hybrid’s National Sales Manager for Industrial Products, Stuart Cole, describes: “We’re delighted to announce the installation of this exciting new product in our showroom in South Cheshire and are really looking forward to providing demonstrations to all interested parties. The UJF series has been hugely popular since its launch in 2009 and now we can see that Mimaki, true to form, has looked at the expanding needs of both the sign and graphics and the manufacturing industries and produced a model that exceeds expectations.”

  The UJF-6042 MkII was launched in September along with the smaller UJF-3042 MkII, which replaces the UJF-3042HG, with both the new models printing thicknesses up to 153mm. Their compatibility with a range of Mimaki’s versatile UV inksets, including LUS-120 with flexibility up to 170% to deliver to a plethora of applications and LUS-150 with superior adhesion for outdoor purposes, makes them appealing to several different sectors.

  The new MkII printers will sit alongside Mimaki’s other offerings in the UJF series: the affordable entry-level UJF-3042FX that has seen copious installations across the UK and Ireland over the last 7 years; and the UJF-7151plus which gives on-demand printing of the very highest quality at industrial production level.

  “We want to provide people with the opportunity to have a holistic overview of Mimaki’s UJF Series and its capabilities all within the comfort of our showroom,” continues Cole. “Installation of the UJF-3042 MkII is expected shortly, meaning we will be able to demonstrate a wide selection of direct-to-object applications with a variety of ink types under one roof, giving print companies the ideal opportunity to get acquainted with this superb range of small format flatbed printers.”

  Customers can arrange a demonstration of the new UJF-6042 MkII, or any of Mimaki’s other products, at Hybrid’s showroom by telephoning +44 (0)1270 501900.

  Additionally, an extensive selection of Mimaki products is available to view across the UK and Ireland through Hybrid’s specialist reseller network.

  Further information can be found by visiting www.hybridservices.co.uk.or www.mimakieurope.com 
  
  

   

• New Mimaki brings breakthrough digital printing to the textile industry
  17 Oct 2016

  

  Mimaki has announced the launch of a brand-new textile printer; the Tx300P-1800B (Belt).

• Mimaki to present show-stopping solutions at InPrint Milan
  14 Oct 2016

  

  Mimaki will be showcasing its impressive portfolio of innovative solutions for the plastics, sign/graphics, industrial and textile/apparel industries at InPrint Milan. Taking centre stage will be the new UV flatbed UJF-3042 MkII and UJF-6042 MkII printers that deliver best-in-class print speeds with excellent adhesion to acrylics and a wide range of other materials, including glass, metal and resins. These printers are ideally suited to the production of items such as membrane switches or wallet smart-phone cases that require pressing or folding during production.

  A variety of ink types are available for these systems, enabling printing on both rigid and flexible materials, including inks designed for durability with excellent scratch resistance, as well as inks that can be stretched up to 170% without cracking. Textures can be added using a unique clear varnish ink.

  Adapting to a changing market place

  Mimaki acknowledge rapidly changing demands across a broad range of industries as a key driver behind the development of their portfolio, bringing new products to market that help to meet ever more complex and sophisticated production requirements in a flexible, cost-effective and innovative manner.

  One of the new trends identified by the company is the demand for improving the aesthetic qualities of ‘functional’ household goods such as washing machines, often resulting in a need for unique print or bespoke control panel on the appliance. Traditional print technologies lack the flexibility to undertake this type of work in a viable and cost effective way. Full colour inkjet technology with a variety of ink types to suit different substrates now makes it possible to print even short runs of items such as intricate control panels and membrane switches in a cost-effective manner, whilst still achieving the required high quality print.

  A new take on thermoforming

  Mimaki will also be demonstrating its UJF-7151plus multipurpose wide-format printer capable of printing on a variety of substrates including plastics, metal, wood, leather and glass up to 28” wide x 20” long and 6” thick.

  The UJF-7151plus will run LUS-350 thermoforming ink – a unique, stretchable ink developed to meet a wide range of thermoforming applications, especially those requiring exceptional hardness and durability, such as automotive parts. Mimaki LUS-350 ink is compatible with the Mimaki UJF-7151plus, JFX200-2513 and JFX200-2531printers. The ink is available in CMYK, white and a unique clear ink that can also be applied to add texture. A Formech 508FS vacuum forming machine on the Mimaki stand will help visitors experience the creative potential of the entire thermoforming process.

  Mimaki is distributed exclusively in the UK and Ireland by Hybrid Services Ltd and the company’s National Sales Manager, Industrial Products, Stuart Cole welcomes the latest developments, commenting: “There is no doubt in my mind that the new models from Mimaki are perfectly placed to build on the incredible success of the previous generation UJF 3042 and 6042 machines. The additional development of even more sophisticated inks is set to expand the capability of these machines into areas of production that we could never have imagined a few years ago. The ability to produce an amazing range of bespoke products in an incredibly compact and user-friendly package provides sign and graphics companies, as well as manufacturing and sampling companies with a perfect opportunity to diversify their services with greater flexibility, short-run production and ever more creative applications, which is certain to attract new and more profitable customers.”

  InPrint takes place in Milan from 15-17 November 2016 and Mimaki can found on Stand B20.

  More details about Mimaki products, including its full range of printers and inks, can be found by visiting www.hybridservices.co.uk

• Mimaki Europe BV acquires Italy’s La Meccanica Costruzione Tessili-S.P.A
  13 Oct 2016

  

  MIMAKI EUROPE B.V. (President and Representative Director Koji Shimizu), a consolidated subsidiary of Mimaki, in accordance with the “Announcement on the Share Transfer Agreement Regarding the Stock Acquisition of Italy’s La Meccanica” disclosed on June 10, 2016, announces that on October 18, 2016 (local time), it acquired all stock shares for Italy’s “La Meccanica Costruzione Tessili-S.P.A.” and converted it to a subsidiary company.   

  In addition, as of the date the stock acquisition closed, the corporate name of the company has been changed from “La Meccanica Costruzione Tessili-S.P.A.” to “Mimaki La Meccanica S.p.A.” and three of Mimaki’s executives will be appointed as directors. Moving forward, Mimaki will leverage La Meccanica’s product and technological expertise to accelerate its efforts to promote digital on-demand production in the textile apparel market on a global scale.  

  Future Outlook

  “We are pleased to bring La Meccanica’s talented people and advanced technology under the Mimaki umbrella,” said Kazuaki Ikeda, President. “La Meccanica has a great reputation in the textile industry, and this acquisition bolsters Mimaki’s efforts to bring the digital transformation to textile printing. The acquisition of La Meccanica is not expected to have any significant impact on Mimaki’s consolidated performance for the current fiscal term, and thus, there will be no revisions to Mimaki’s earnings forecast as a result of this acquisition.”

• New Mimaki Tx300P-1800B brings breakthrough digital printing to textile industry
  12 Oct 2016

  

  Mimaki has announced the launch of a brand-new textile printer: the Tx300P-1800B (Belt). The 1.8 metre wide printer is specifically designed to address the need in the textile and apparel industries for cost-effective, short run printing of textiles for products or samples. Its unique design makes it ideally suited to printing on a wide variety of fabrics, including bulky textured materials, as well as sheer fabric and stretchy materials such as knits. It also eliminates the need for steaming or washing when printing with Mimaki TP400 textile pigment inks, thereby reducing the space required for on-demand textile printing.

  Mimaki believes that the significant upturn in online shopping brings with it a growing demand for the creation of custom products, with customers moving their attention away from standard designs widely available in retail outlets.  Accordingly, enterprising garment makers are looking for cost-effective solutions that will help them meet the demand for sample production, short runs and bespoke prints. The new Mimaki Tx300P-1800B belt-type printer has been specifically developed to meet these needs, as well as having the flexibility to print to an even wider range of different fabrics than ever before with a comprehensive range of ink set options.

  Five ink types increase flexibility

  In order to accommodate the wide range of potential applications, Mimaki will be offering five different ink types with the Tx300P-1800B. These include: Sb420 Sublimation Dye Ink designed to work perfectly with polyester-based textiles, either direct to fabric or to a sublimation paper for transfer by heat press, which feature a broad colour gamut including a deep and powerful black; Dd400 Dispersion Dye Ink delivering high light-fastness and outstanding build-up on polyester and micro-polyester for sportswear, curtains, outdoor textiles, home textiles and the auto industry; and TP400 Textile Pigment Ink, probably the most flexible of all the Mimaki textile inks, with its ability to print to a wide variety of textile types such as polyester, cotton, silk, viscose, rayon and wool. This ink also removes the need for steaming or washing, thus reducing time, cost and potential water pollution. However, a binder or primer is recommended to achieve the quality that both manufacturers and consumers demand.

  Also available will be Mimaki’s Rc400 Reactive Dye Ink, suitable for printing on natural fibres, such as cotton, silk and wool. It also meets high automotive light-fastness standards but does require pre- / post-treatment of the fabrics to prevent fading and bleeding of colour. The results are sharp images and rich, deep colours. The final ink option is Mimaki's Ac400 Acid Dye Ink which is similar to Reactive Dye Ink in that pre- / post-treatment of the fabric is needed. These inks produce bright, deep colours in the complete gamut of shades required by the fashion and apparel industry as well as good light- and wet-fastness.

  Game changing innovation

  The new Mimaki Tx300P-1800B will be exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by Hybrid Services Ltd and the company’s National Sales Manager - Textile & Apparel, Stephen Woodall comments: “This is a very exciting development for the textile and apparel printing industry, bringing speed, quality and flexibility to the market at a very accessible price.

  "The Tx300P-1800B really does bring game-changing technical innovation in textile print within the reach of many more garment makers and manufacturers. The printer's belt media transport system flattens the textile and makes it possible to print easily on textiles that stretch."

  Next-generation digital textile printing

  The new Mimaki Tx300P-1800B has been developed to deliver all the capabilities of the next generation of textile printers at an attractive price point with a host of new technical innovations. The new machine is capable of printing at up to 50 square metres per hour, and can also achieve print resolutions of up to 1,440dpi. The adjustable high head gap prevents head strikes and enables high quality printing on thick, woven or fabrics with ‘raised’ fibres. The potential for crumpling and bending of fabrics during the print process is further reduced by the belt conveyance system which incorporates a “crumple-free roller” and “paste roller” to ensure beautiful, stable print results.  The waveform control function allows each ink to be jetted according to its own specific gravity and viscosity, for precise placement of ink droplets onto the fabric.

  Reliable, uninterrupted continuous operation is catered for by the inclusion of a Nozzle Control Unit to automatically detect and recover clogged nozzles with reduced wastage and the machine also uses two-litre ink packs which further support continuous printing, with reduced operating costs.

  The new Tx300P-1800B will be demonstrated for the first time at Viscom Italia in Milan from 13th – 15th October and more details about Mimaki products, including its full range of printers and inks can be found at www.hybridservices.co.uk.

  Outside of the UK, interested parties should visit www.mimakieurope.com.

• European debut for Mimaki Tx500P-3200DS at Viscom Frankfurt
  3 Oct 2016

  

  Mimaki will host the European launch of the recently announced Tx500P-3200DS at Viscom in Frankfurt from 2-4 November, alongside a wide range of innovative printing solutions for the display and advertising markets. This year, Mimaki will be present on two stands in Hall 8: D44 and E51.

  Visitors to Mimaki’s stands at the show will have the opportunity to see the new Tx500P-3200DS grand format textile printer on display for the first time in Europe. In addition, the new UV flatbed UJF-3042 MkII and UJF-6042 MkII printers will be available to view. Visitors will also be able to participate in an interactive exhibit that will engage all five senses in a unique printing experience.

  Stephen Woodall, National Sales Manager – Textile & Apparel, at Mimaki’s exclusive UK and Irish distributor Hybrid Services remarks: “Mimaki’s new Tx500P-3200DS offers a combined grand format print and fixation solution, making it ideal for companies looking to leverage the growing soft signage and exhibition graphics sectors. We anticipate considerable interest in the new 3.2m printer and are looking forward to presenting it to our customers.”

  In addition to the Tx500P-3200DS, Mimaki will also show its new LED UV small format flatbed range which includes models with 30x42cm and 60x42cm beds that offer improved printing quality thanks to completely redesigned table technology. Also at Viscom Frankfurt, Mimaki will present the new UJV55-320 3.2m grand format LED UV inkjet printer and the Tx300P-1800 textile printer running with pigment inks.

  Interactive Exhibition Zone ‘GOKAN’

  On its second stand, Mimaki will give visitors a unique interactive sensory experience by applying the Japanese concept of ‘GOKAN’ – five senses. They will be able to view a print job from start to finish and the company’s product specialists will be operating the machines exhibited on the stand. Mimaki’s CJV150 inkjet printer will be used for printing and cutting of images for heat transfer application to T-shirts. Additional solvent printers, cutting machines and a UJF-7151 plus UV flatbed machine will also be available to visitors to participate in this unique approach to the trade show experience.

  “This interactive concept is designed to demonstrate the ease of use and suitability for day-to-day applications of our products”, explains Uwe Niklas, General Manager Sales at Mimaki Germany. “Being able to experience print production with all five senses will show digital printing in a whole new light.”

  UK customers can find full details of the Mimaki product range by visiting www.hybridservices.co.uk; Customers from other regions should visit www.mimakieurope.com.

  [Image shows Mimaki Tx500P-3200DS]

   

• Blow away the cobwebs with Mimaki’s Autumn Trade-In
  1 Oct 2016

  

  This Autumn, Mimaki’s exclusive UK and Irish distributor Hybrid Services is offering an exceptional Trade-In offer giving companies the chance to receive up to £3,500 cashback until the end of October 2016.

  Mimaki’s versatile Sign and Graphics range is stacked with high performance features and makes use of the durable and vivid SS21 ink set that includes silver, white, orange and light black. Available on the Autumn Trade-In are the Mimaki JV150-160 and JV300-160 high-speed printers and the CJV150-160 and CJV300-160 integrated printer/cutters, as Hybrid’s national sales manager for Sign & Graphics, John de la Roche reveals; “This is a terrific opportunity for sign makers and print providers with outdated hardware to make use of their assets and trade up to the latest technology with market-leading functionality from Mimaki. Each of the models available on the offer deliver superior print quality and productivity and coupled with a hearty cashback sum of up to £2,500 it’s a great time to think about upgrading.”

  The Autumn Trade-In, which is running until Monday 31st October 2016, also includes the Mimaki TS300P-1800 1.8m production dye sublimation printer, as national sales manager for Textile & Apparel, Stephen Woodall explains; “The TS300P is ideal for print companies looking to provide dye sublimation printing for sportswear, exhibition graphics and fast fashion. It delivers outstanding output with neon and light black ink options and now comes with an extended two-year gold warranty, offering real peace of mind. It’s a unique opportunity to trade-in any printer over 500mm wide, be it dye sublimation, solvent or latex, and get a sizeable reward of £3,500 against a proven dye sublimation printer.”

  The Autumn Trade-In is available immediately through Hybrid’s network of authorised resellers and further information can be found by visiting www.hybridservices.co.uk/autumn or by telephoning +44 (0)1270 501900.

• 'Blow away the cobwebs' with Mimaki’s Autumn Trade-In
  27 Sep 2016

  

  Mimaki’s exclusive UK and Irish distributor, Hybrid Services, is offering a Trade-In offer on its 1.6m JV and CJV printers and printer/cutters as well as the popular TS300P-1800 dye sublimation transfer printer, giving sign and graphics companies the chance to receive cashback of up to £3,500 until the end of October 2016.

  Mimaki’s versatile Sign and Graphics range is stacked with high performance features and makes use of the durable and vivid SS21 ink set that includes silver, white, orange and light black. Available on the Autumn Trade-In are the Mimaki JV150-160 and JV300-160 high-speed printers and the CJV150-160 and CJV300-160 integrated printer/cutters.

  Hybrid’s national sales manager for Sign & Graphics, John de la Roche, explains: “This is a terrific opportunity for sign makers and print providers with outdated hardware to make use of their assets and trade up to the latest technology with market-leading functionality from Mimaki. Each of the models available on the offer deliver superior print quality and productivity and coupled with a hearty cashback sum of up to £2,500 it’s a great time to think about upgrading.”

  The Autumn Trade-In, which is running until Monday 31st October 2016, also includes the Mimaki TS300P-1800 1.8m production dye sublimation printer.

  Hybrid's national sales manager for Textile & Apparel, Stephen Woodall, adds: “The TS300P is ideal for print companies looking to provide dye sublimation printing for sportswear, exhibition graphics and fast fashion. It delivers outstanding output with neon and light black ink options and now comes with an extended two-year gold warranty, offering real peace of mind. It’s a unique opportunity to trade-in any printer over 500mm wide, be it dye sublimation, solvent or latex, and get a sizeable reward of £3,500 against a proven dye sublimation printer.”

  The Autumn Trade-In is available immediately through Hybrid’s network of authorised resellers. Further information can be found by visiting www.hybridservices.co.uk/autumn or by telephoning +44 (0)1270 501900.

• printMAX returns to The Print Show with inspiring Mimaki line-up
  17 Sep 2016

  

  Returning to the Print Show for a second year, printMAX will again be focusing on promoting the Mimaki product range with an exciting array of technology on display.

• Mimaki launches new Tx500P-3200DS high-productivity direct sublimation printer
  13 Sep 2016

  

  Mimaki has announced the launch of the Tx500P-3200DS 3.2 metre direct sublimation printer, the latest in a number of innovative product launches the company has undertaken in the last few weeks.

• Mimaki's TS300P production dye-sub printer now includes two year warranty
  11 Sep 2016

  

  After many successful installs since its debut at FESPA 2015, the Mimaki TS300P-1800 1.8m production dye sublimation printer now includes a two year warranty, demonstrating its proven reliability in the field.

• New Mimaki JFX200-2531 to offer larger print area & improved productivity
  6 Sep 2016

  

  Mimaki has announced a forthcoming addition to its popular JFX200 product family.

• Mimaki to unveil UJF-3042 MkII and UJF-6042 MkII UV curable flatbed printers at Viscom Paris
  31 Aug 2016

  

  Mimaki has announced that it will be unveiling two new printer models at Viscom Paris, which takes place from 6-8 September 2016. The UJF-3042 MkII and the UJF-6042 MkII are the latest generation of UV flatbed printers from Mimaki, replacing earlier UJF-3042HG and UJF-6042 models, respectively. The new printers feature superior productivity, print quality and flexibility than their very successful predecessors, demonstrating Mimaki’s continued commitment to delivering market-leading solutions.

  With a growing number of Mimaki UV-curable printing systems being installed in fabrication and manufacturing businesses, shopping centres, hardware and DIY stores to produce customised products, the new models have been developed to enhance the customer experience further still, by increasing both print speed and print quality, meeting the ever-changing demands of the sector.
  Supporting a broad array of applications

  The new UJF-3042 MkII and UJF-6042 MkII printers feature print speeds that are 20% faster than its predecessors and also have the ability to use a wide array of different inksets, thereby supporting an amazing range of applications. For example, LUS-120 inks are ideal for printing on soft material surfaces such as membrane switches or smartphone wallet cases, with their ability to stretch up to 170% without cracking when pressed or folded. LUS-150 inks, which will be available for the new printers in the near future, are ideal for indoor signs, trophies and other acrylic items due to their excellent adhesion properties. In addition, the LH-100 rigid inks are perfect for accessories or stationery products that need to withstand high levels of abrasion.

  LH-100 inks, when used with Mimaki’s PR-200 inkjet primer, are also an excellent choice for printing on glass, metal and resins, which has traditionally been difficult for UV-curable inks. Mimaki Clear Control (MCC), a clear varnish ink, can be used to both highlight areas with spot or flood coating, as well as to deliver embossing opportunities with multiple passes.

  Mimaki is distributed exclusively in the UK and Ireland by Hybrid Services Ltd and the company’s National Sales Manager for Industrial Products, Stuart Cole, is looking forward to the latest developments. He comments: “The existing UJF-3042 and 6042 machines have established themselves as incredibly successful products with their ability to produce an amazing range of bespoke products in an incredibly compact and user-friendly package. I’m confident that the new models will move the benchmark even higher and are likely to have huge appeal to sign and graphics companies looking to diversify their offering, as well as manufacturing and sampling companies with their need for flexibility and short-run production.”

  

  About the new models:

  The new UJF-3042 MkII and UJF-6042 MkII printers have the capability to print at maximum speeds of 2.48 sq m/hour and 3.52 sq m/hour, respectively, representing a 20% improvement in speed over current models, as well as the ability to print on objects up to 153mm thick.

  Mechanical functionality is further enhanced with a print table that moves during printing, reducing printer vibration and delivering precise dot placement, further improving their ability to deliver high quality print on a wide range of objects and materials.

  Preset Mimaki Expand Colour in the printers’ RasterLink digital front end software delivers upgraded colour representation for even more vibrant, solid colour and brighter skin tones. Automatic detection and cleaning of clogged nozzles allows reliable continual printing and reduces wastage and additionally, Mimaki Circulation Technology (MCT) circulates white ink at regular intervals to prevent pigment sedimentation that can lead to nozzle malfunction.

  A further significant development in the new models is the inclusion of a fully covered print table designed to improve safety while maintaining print quality by keeping dust and other contaminants out of the system, which is especially important in retail environments.

  With the forthcoming launch taking place in France, Mike Horsten, General Manager Marketing of Mimaki EMEA, comments: “We are excited to be bringing these new printers to Viscom Paris, along with a full portfolio of industry-leading Mimaki printers, including the recently launched UJV55-320, a 3.2m roll-to-roll inkjet printer ideal for backlit signage, and the Tx300P-1800 that delivers high quality printing on a wide range of textiles. We believe that our stand really will have something for everyone and are confident that visitors to the Viscom show will be amazed at the breadth of these printers’ capabilities. We are looking forward to discussing the new business opportunities available to them, by adding Mimaki printers to their production platforms.”

  Mimaki will be exhibiting on Stand G33 at Viscom Paris and further details on its range of printers, cutters, software and inks can be found by visiting www.hybridservices.co.uk.

  Mimaki Europe can be contacted via: www.mimakieurope.com.

• Mimaki innovates colour matching with easy-to-use software solutions
  9 Aug 2016

  

  Mimaki has announced that it is adding value to the print production process with the introduction of innovative software solutions that drive accurate, brilliant colour, attracting attention in an ever-more-colourful world. Three new software solutions highlight this innovative approach: the Artista Textile Color Collection; Mimaki Profile Master 3 (MPM3) for advanced printer profiling; and RasterLink6 Version 5.0. All are designed to help printers deliver accurate, repeatable colour across multiple devices and locations.

  Digital Textile Printing: Coming of age

  In the textile industry, the shift from analogue to digital production is underway as textile and apparel manufacturers aim at achieving faster time-to-market, reducing inventories and increasing flexibility to address rapidly evolving trends. Yet colour matching remains a significant issue due to the lack of a standardised colour chart that enables colour consistency from design through production. Mimaki is filling that gap with the Artista Textile Color Collection, making it faster and easier for textile and apparel manufacturers to achieve the desired colour without wasteful trial and error.

  Mimaki intends to expand the collection over time, but it initially includes 520 colours for sublimation printing - including fluorescent inks - making it ideal for sports apparel and interior fabrics. By integrating the process into the workflow, the production of colour across multiple locations is made efficient and consistent.

  The process starts with a designer specifying colours based on new swatches made available for Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW. An image file based on the selected colour palette is then printed on a Mimaki printer using either the RasterLink6 or TxLink3 RIP software. In addition to colour-accurate images, the resulting standard includes detailed information about profiles and settings that can be used to reduce the time required for colour matching, thus enabling colours to be represented accurately across printers and locations. The initial collection is designed for use with the Mimaki TS300P-1800 textile printer with dye sublimation inks.

  Exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by Hybrid Services Ltd, the company’s National Sales Manager - Textile & Apparel, Stephen Woodall comments: “Controlling colour, including the new fluorescent shades, throughout the design and print process is a vital tool in delivering quality printed textiles. Mimaki’s focus on streamlining that is of significant benefit to our end users.”

  Fast colour matching across media types and printers

  Media affects colour appearance, making it difficult to match colour across different media types and using different printers. Mimaki is simplifying this process with the new Mimaki Profile Master 3 (MPM3) colour management software. It enables users to reproduce equivalent colours when printing on different types of media with the same printer or when printing with different printer models and inks, vastly increasing the flexibility of a production platform, even when it consists of printers from multiple vendors.

  It’s easy to use, requiring no special colour knowledge and speeds the integration of new printers into the mix, ensuring excellent colour matching across the entire platform. This makes it easier to split up larger jobs across multiple printers or produce projects that include pieces printed on a variety of printers, reducing cycle time and increasing quality and consistency. Print colour is consistently maintained over time by measuring colour with a colorimeter during the printer calibration process.

  RasterLink6 now includes the PANTONE Color Collection

  Mimaki’s market-leading printer RIP software, RasterLink6, now includes the PANTONE Color Collection, widely used around the globe for colour matching. This is in addition to the Adobe® Illustrator-compatible DIC colour collection and Mimaki’s original colour collections including metallic. PANTONE colours in print files are automatically detected and converted to equivalents for faster colour matching on RasterLink6-driven printers. This saves time, reduces waste, and is easy to use with no professional expertise required.

  RasterLink6 Version 5.0 also delivers the ability to set a measured colour as a replacement colour, saving steps in the process. Frequently used colours can be stored in a customised colour collection for fast retrieval. In addition, this latest version enables the creation of cut marks for FOTOBA cutters. Marks can simply be placed on the RasterLink6 operation window without the need to use any other design software.

  Available through Hybrid’s authorised reseller network, further information can be found by visiting www.hybridservices.co.uk.

• Mimaki maps out expansion plans with new Japan facilities
  3 Aug 2016

  

  Mimaki has opened a number of new testing and laboratory facilities in Japan as part of a move to address a growing global demand for digital print technology.

• Artisan Signs broadens scope with new Mimaki UJV55-320 printer
  2 Aug 2016

  

  Artisan Signs has bolstered its already impressive kit list with the purchase of a new Mimaki UJV55-320 grand format LED UV inkjet printer.

• Mimaki inspires with new inks and applications at drupa 2016
  27 Jun 2016

  

  Mimaki has reported that drupa 2016 was a benchmark show for the company where it presented the latest in digital print technology, including a wide range of new inks, printers and applications.

• COVERUP gets creative with Mimaki
  20 Jun 2016

  

  When Dublin-based COVERUP wanted to upgrade its trusty Mimaki CJV30-130, the company went straight back to Mimaki and invested in the latest generation JV300 solvent printer. Now, as well as producing high-end graphics and print jobs, it’s been able to get its innovative, experimental hat on and devise a whole new way of producing canvas awnings.

  COVERUP in Dublin was established around 40 years ago, manufacturing and finishing covers for boats, cars and more. In the late 90s, the company expanded its services by providing printing in-house and eventually made the transition to digital print 10 years ago, arming itself with a selection of grand format hardware for flag and fabric printing. However, in order to secure its comprehensive service portfolio, it made the investment in a Mimaki CJV30-130 integrated solvent printer/cutter, offering high end window vinyls, pull-up banners and stickers.

  The company was so impressed with the machine that it opted for Mimaki once again when it came to updating its hardware, as Operations Director, Anthony Byrne explains: “We have always been impressed by the quality of the print produced using the Mimaki CJV30 and made the decision to invest in a new Mimaki JV300-160 solvent printer along with a matching CG-FXII cutter in order to retain that high-end, wide-format side of our market. The JV300 is extremely fast and the colour we get from the SS21 ink is unrivalled. We needed the extra speed and now we have a separate cutter we can simultaneously run two different jobs.”

  In addition to the more commonplace applications, COVERUP has experimentally found a great use for the new Mimaki JV300: producing print for canvas awnings, the kind popular in al fresco eating areas and trendy cafés. Byrne continues: “We produce a lot of work for places requiring branded awnings and windbreakers etc, but it’s impossible to print direct to rolls of acrylic canvas. So, we developed a process of printing and cutting onto cast vinyl followed by a heat transfer process onto canvas and it produces a great effect, similar to screenprinting. Using solvent inks makes the colour vivid and the overall effect is very striking.”

  The investment was made through authorised Mimaki reseller, Reprocentre, as its Sales Director, Eoin Honan explains: “COVERUP has been a Reprocentre customer for some time and we have been delighted to supply, install and support a new Mimaki JV300 into the company.”

  Further information about COVERUP is available via its website www.coverup.ie.

  Further information about Reprocentre and its products and services can be found at www.reprocentre.ie.

  Full details of Mimaki’s product portfolio is available via its Irish and UK distributor, Hybrid Services Ltd at www.hybridservices.ie.

• New Roland DG TrueVIS VG printer/cutters & SOLJET EJ-640 printer win EDP Awards
  18 Jun 2016

  

  Roland DG is delighted to announce that two of its recently launched wide format digital print devices; the TrueVIS VG Series and SOLJET EJ-640 have won prestigious EDP awards.

• ESMA members praise drupa as the place to be for industrial printing
  17 Jun 2016

  

  Drupa 2016 was undoubtedly the show for everyone involved in industrial and functional printing.

• Roland DG celebrates its most successful drupa show ever
  16 Jun 2016

  

  It was a journey of discovery for visitors to the Roland DG booth at drupa 2016.

• Drytac's printable 'SpotOn' vinyl provides University with quick & clean window graphics changes
  15 Jun 2016

  

  UK-based Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) has been working with local company Wallace Print for more than a decade.

• EDP awards new Zund D3 "Best wide format finishing solution" at drupa
  14 Jun 2016

  

  The new Zünd D3 cutter, which made its debut at Drupa 2016, was given the EDP Award 2016 for 'Best wide format finishing solution'.

• Mimaki dye sublimation printer packages deliver value and performance
  14 Jun 2016

  

  Exclusive UK and Irish Mimaki distributor, Hybrid Services Ltd., has announced a range of competitively-priced dye sublimation printer packages designed to deliver a unique combination of performance, an attractive entry price, and low running costs.

  The two packages, based on the acclaimed 1.6m wide JV150 and JV300 platforms, start at just £11,995 and include a comprehensive two-year gold warranty, easy to use RIP software, Mimaki’s own bulk ink system and 16 litres of the latest Sb54 dye sublimation ink plus powered feed and take up devices.

  “These two packages deliver incredible value for companies looking at bringing dye sub printing to their business,” says Hybrid’s National Sales Manager, Textile & Apparel, Stephen Woodall. “There is understandable excitement around the potential revenue that dye sublimation printed output can bring and these systems leverage Mimaki’s peerless textile printing heritage.”

  Mimaki’s latest Sb54 dye sublimation ink set offers market-leading value thanks to a price of only £52.50 / litre. This, coupled with the backup of a two-year manufacturer’s warranty on the hardware, ensures print companies benefit from both low running costs and peace of mind. The ink is suitable for sublimation printing onto textile and rigid substrates and delivers a vibrant, long lasting result.

  “Sportswear, fast fashion, promotional products, event signage and textile point of sale are ideal avenues to explore with a wide format dye sublimation printer such as the JV150 or super-fast JV300,” continues Woodall.

  Companies investing in the packages need only add their choice of heat press to complete the system, as Woodall points out: “Our specialist dye sub and textile resellers are perfectly placed to offer expert advice on the most appropriate heat press for the customer’s business. This, along with installation and training are all that’s required to complete their investment and bring a whole new range of products to their business.”

  Available now through Hybrid’s textile reseller network, the JV150 and JV300 dye sublimation printer packages join Mimaki’s highly regarded textile and dye sublimation line-up which offers solutions across a broad range of sizes, speeds and price points.

  “It’s never been easier to get into dye sublimation printing,” concludes Woodall. “With these new Mimaki packages, we’re able to offer a system that costs very little to invest in initially, retains low running costs and can deliver a highly profitable end product. With Hybrid and Mimaki’s experience and our knowledgeable reseller network, we’re able to train and support new customers ensuring they’re up and running quickly too.”

  [Picture caption: The Mimaki JV300-160 is bundled with ink and bulk ink system to add value for prospective purchasers.]

• Mimaki dye sublimation printer packages deliver value and performance
  14 Jun 2016

  

  Exclusive UK and Irish Mimaki distributor, Hybrid Services Ltd., has announced a range of competitively-priced dye sublimation printer packages designed to deliver a unique combination of performance, an attractive entry price, and low running costs.

  The two packages, based on the acclaimed 1.6m wide JV150 and JV300 platforms, start at just £11,995 and include a comprehensive two-year gold warranty, easy to use RIP software, Mimaki’s own bulk ink system and 16 litres of the latest Sb54 dye sublimation ink plus powered feed and take up devices.

  “These two packages deliver incredible value for companies looking at bringing dye sub printing to their business,” says Hybrid’s National Sales Manager, Textile & Apparel, Stephen Woodall. “There is understandable excitement around the potential revenue that dye sublimation printed output can bring and these systems leverage Mimaki’s peerless textile printing heritage.”

  Mimaki’s latest Sb54 dye sublimation ink set offers market-leading value thanks to a price of only £52.50 / litre. This, coupled with the backup of a two-year manufacturer’s warranty on the hardware, ensures print companies benefit from both low running costs and peace of mind. The ink is suitable for sublimation printing onto textile and rigid substrates and delivers a vibrant, long lasting result.

  “Sportswear, fast fashion, promotional products, event signage and textile point of sale are ideal avenues to explore with a wide format dye sublimation printer such as the JV150 or super-fast JV300,” continues Woodall.

  Companies investing in the packages need only add their choice of heat press to complete the system, as Woodall points out: “Our specialist dye sub and textile resellers are perfectly placed to offer expert advice on the most appropriate heat press for the customer’s business. This, along with installation and training are all that’s required to complete their investment and bring a whole new range of products to their business.”

  Available now through Hybrid’s textile reseller network, the JV150 and JV300 dye sublimation printer packages join Mimaki’s highly regarded textile and dye sublimation line-up which offers solutions across a broad range of sizes, speeds and price points.

  “It’s never been easier to get into dye sublimation printing,” concludes Woodall. “With these new Mimaki packages, we’re able to offer a system that costs very little to invest in initially, retains low running costs and can deliver a highly profitable end product. With Hybrid and Mimaki’s experience and our knowledgeable reseller network, we’re able to train and support new customers ensuring they’re up and running quickly too.”

  [Picture caption: The Mimaki JV300-160 is bundled with ink and bulk ink system to add value for prospective purchasers.]

• Roland DG's new TrueVIS VG & SOLJET EJ-640 printers win EDP Awards
  13 Jun 2016

  

  Roland DG is delighted to announce that two of its recently launched wide format digital print devices - the TrueVIS VG Series and SOLJET EJ-640 - have won prestigious EDP Awards.

• Inspirational wall graphics for SDUK offices brings ‘the outside in’
  12 Jun 2016

  

  Having moved into new offices in East Grinstead three years ago, the organisers of Sign & Digital UK, Faversham House, were looking to improve their working environment through the introduction of inspiring wall graphics.

• Antalis appoints Frank Moran to strengthen sign & display business
  12 Jun 2016

  

  Antalis UK has announced the appointment of Frank Moran to the position of Visual Communications Strategic Development Director for its Sign and Display business.

• Landa secures over €450M in orders for nanographic printing presses at drupa
  9 Jun 2016

  

  Landa once again took centre stage at Drupa, taking over €450 million in orders for Nanographic Printing presses.

• Springfield Solutions buys third Screen digital label press at drupa
  9 Jun 2016

  

  Springfield Solutions bought its first Screen Truepress Jet L350UV digital label press in 2014, its second a year later and – only 9 months later – its third (at drupa)!

  Joint MDs Dennis Ebeltoft and Matt Dass, along with Print Operations Manager Steve Nix visited drupa to seal the deal and will take delivery in a couple of months once they have expanded its facility to accommodate it. The latest press will be in-line to a Screen JetConverter L350 finishing system inline varnishing, lamination, die cutting and slitting to give full end-to-end production and converting efficiency.

  The investment has been made to cope with the company’s significant growth over the last 3 years – largely due to the impact that the Truepress Jets have had on the business. “We have seen a lot of growth in business from existing and new clients which has put us a year ahead of schedule in terms of investing in a third press. These Screen presses are driving our business growth and attracting new clients and we needed more capacity now to be able to service them and meet tight deadlines - we have been surprised by the success,” says Dennis. “We are seeing run lengths now that we didn’t expect for digital labels and are printing 20,000 linear metres during a single 8-hour shift

  The end-to-end integration goes further at Springfield Solutions with the Screen presses linked into the company’s CERM MIS system to provide accurate job management, production cost analysis and control.

  “Springfield Solutions was the first company to install a Truepress Jet L350UV in Europe in 2014 and they have just gone from strength to strength since then,” says Brian Filler, President of Screen Europe. “It’s refreshing to be associated with such a professional company that is continually investing and growing a successful digital label business.”

• Johnston Mailing boosts capabilities with triple Canon imagePRESS order
  9 Jun 2016

  

  UK-based Johnston Mailing has upgraded its line-up of Canon digital production presses with an order for three imagePRESS engines placed at drupa 2016.

• Wilmot-Budgen to upgrade to brand new Zünd D3 following drupa reveal
  8 Jun 2016

  

  Following its unveiling at drupa, the brand new Zünd D3 digital cutting table will be installed at point-of-sale (POS) specialist Wilmot-Budgen.

  Surrey-based Wilmot-Budgen invested in a Zünd G3 XL3200 with Board Handling System earlier this year, making it the first business in the UK to have the complete system. However, the company was keen to push its production even further and installed the Zünd G3 on the basis that it could be upgraded to the even more productive Zünd D3 following its launch on May 31st.

  The company – a specialist supplier of print and POS to major retailers and leading brands – already used an older Zünd G3 XL1600 for the creation of prototypes, but was impressed by the increased automation offered by the newer models and the Board Handling System, so ordered an additional Zünd G3 table for its production department.

  "We were the first business in the UK to have the Board Handling System and are really pleased with it," says Peter Burford, Operations Director at Wilmot-Budgen. "It feeds, cuts and delivers material automatically allowing for longer runs to be unattended.

  "We had been keeping an eye on Zünd's R&D and when we were told about the new Zünd D3 we made the purchase based on having it installed after its launch."

  Originally designed for the leather-cutting market and now re-engineered for display graphics and other applications, the Zünd D3 features two beams to significantly increase productivity while retaining the highest levels of automation, accuracy and safety. Four models are available – Zünd D3 L3200, Zünd D3 XL3200, Zünd D3 2XL3200, Zünd D3 3XL3200 – to cater for many different applications.

  Wilmot-Budgen will be swapping out its existing Zünd G3 XL3200 for the new Zünd D3 XL3200, but keeping all of the Board Handling System elements at either end. This is possible thanks to the flexible, modular design of Zünd cutting tables, which allows expertly engineered tools and systems to be changed and replaced as users' needs evolve, retaining the table's performance and value over time.

  "The new Zünd D3 is an extraordinarily efficient machine," says Peter Giddings, Sales Director, Zünd Plotting Systems (UK) Ltd. "The dual beam system multiplies production while retaining high levels of automation, meaning even more output for less effort.

  "Many of our customers use their Zünd cutting machines on double shifts and even 24/7 operation, so we needed to meet demand for increased automation and productivity. Therefore we were delighted to unveil the new Zünd D3, alongside our colleagues at Zünd Systemtechnik AG, at this year's drupa event. Wilmot-Budgen will be sure to put it, along with the Board Handling System, through its paces."

  For further information or to book a visit to Zünd UK's demonstration suite in St Albans, please email sales@zund.co.uk or call +44 (0)1727 833003.

  [Picture caption: The Zünd D3 was revealed at drupa.]

• Dye-sublimation expert i-Sub rejoins Roland DG family
  7 Jun 2016

  

   i-Sub has announced it has been appointed a reseller for Roland dye-sublimation printer systems.

• Nazdar receives prestigious Champions of Business award from Kansas City
  7 Jun 2016

  

  Nazdar was honoured to receive Kansas City's distinguished Champions of Business Award on 10th May 2016.

• Ainsley Signs turns up the volume with Roland DG's new SolJet EJ-640
  6 Jun 2016

  

  Manchester-based Ainsley Signs has provided a dedicated sign service for over 50 years, boasting a variety of clients covering broad industry sectors.

• Slam Signs invests in new SureColor SC-S40600 large format printer
  6 Jun 2016

  

  Signage and printing company Slam Signs has invested in a four-colour SureColor SC-S40600 large format printer. It is the company’s third SureColor - as it has owned an SC-S30600 since its launch in 2012 and purchased its eight-colour SC-S70600 in 2015.

  Based in St Albans, Hertfordshire, Slam Signs provides a complete design and print service to a wide range of customers - from small start-ups to well-known nationwide companies - and has been in business since 2007. It produces a variety of products including vehicle graphics/digital wraps, shop facias and signage, window graphics, banners/roller banners, internal and external signage, POS and pop-up exhibition displays.

  Purchased from authorised Epson reseller Papergraphics, the SC-S40600 is one of three new 64-inch SureColor professional signage printers launched earlier this year. Its new design and production features combine to offer market-leading quality at the fastest possible speeds – up to 58.4sqm/hr - with precise repeatability and long-term durability. The affordable, entry-level SC-S40600 features Epson’s PrecisionCore printhead and offers Slam Signs a precise and accurate way to create high-quality graphics on a range of substrates including clear film, vinyl, canvas and paper. Working in tandem with Epson’s new formulation UltraChrome GS3 inks, the printer produces a wide range of highly accurate colours.

  Slam Signs business partners David Jorge and Jodie Banfather say the new SureColor range is impressive: “You can tell Epson have thought carefully about the design and build. Installation and set-up is straightforward and simple things like the addition of a large, clear LED-lit inspection panel for viewing the printing area once printing is in full flow make the printer easy to use. We know that we can rely on Epson’s engineering to give us high quality and productivity with full back-up and support should we need it.”

  Slam Signs is particularly impressed with the speed and the highly accurate and repeatable colour reproduction of the SureColor range: “The output speed is excellent and the wider colour gamut gives amazing quality and clarity, whatever substrate is being printed, we can be confident that the colours will match consistently. I’m sure our customers are going to appreciate the results and I’m certain it’s going to open up whole new opportunities for our display and specialist applications.”

  Phil McMullin, Sales Manager, ProGraphics, Epson UK, says: “Everything about the design of the new SureColor SC-S series is centred on improving the printing experience for the user and reducing cost of ownership. The printers lead the market in offering the very best combination of quality, speed and price and truly mark the pinnacle of Epson’s knowledge and expertise in one range.”

  For further information about the new SureColor SC-S series printers, please visit www.epson.co.uk.

  [Picture caption: Slam Signs used its new SureColor SC-S80600 to produce graphics for the Epson booth at Sign & Digital UK. It also produced a customised car, wrapped with the same design printed onto specialist vinyl.]

• Soyang Europe invests in MTEX Blue dye sublimation printer for sampling and R&D purposes
  6 Jun 2016

  

  The recent investment in a new MTEX Blue dye sublimation printer by Soyang Europe has enabled the company to significantly increase its sample production and testing, benefiting its customer base with an improved service.

  The ‘all in one’ direct to polyester printer features in-line fixation, resulting in output that is ready to sew and install – making it ideal for sign makers, graphics houses and production print operations looking to supply sublimation printed textiles for the retail, exhibition and display sectors.

  “Soyang Europe has long been associated with textile substrates and with more companies looking to add the capability to their print portfolios, we saw the need to assist them as best we could,” says the company’s Managing Director, Mark Mashiter. “The MTEX Blue dye sub printer has allowed our sales team to demonstrate to customers what a printed fabric looks and feels like, rather than simply supplying an unprinted swatch – much to our and their benefit.”

  The new printer joins Soyang’s R&D fleet of solvent and latex machines and helps accomplish important tasks for the company. “Having in-house print capabilities also gives us the means to test new products before bringing them to market,” continues Mashiter. “Equally, we’re able to assist customers in the field with any technical enquiries – having industry standard printers and inks means it’s possible for us to offer an extra layer of support for companies by using similar machines to theirs.”

  Soyang Europe offers a broad range of dye sublimation printable textiles, including its own Far Eastern manufactured range of backlit, flag, mesh and display materials, as well as European manufactured fabrics from Endutex and Aurich Textilien.

  “Textile is a huge growth sector at the moment and our range of fabrics ensures our customers are in a strong position to positively respond to any requirement that their customers may have,” concludes Mashiter. “From retail lightboxes to interior décor, exhibition stands and soft signage, we have textiles available in a range of sizes and for a broad array of ink technologies. The MTEX Blue allows us to supply a printed sample to our customers that perfectly communicates how well these substrates perform.”

  The MTEX Blue dye sublimation printer is exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by Hybrid Services Ltd and the company’s National Sales Manager – Textile & Apparel, Stephen Woodall, comments: “Soyang Europe’s investment in the MTEX Blue very much underlines the printer’s capabilities – we’re hugely impressed with the output we’ve seen on their range of fabrics already and we’re confident it will prove an invaluable tool for sampling and quality control.”

  Soyang Europe’s product range, which also includes banner, canvas, self-adhesive materials, floor and wallcoverings and more can be found by visiting www.soyang.co.uk.

  The MTEX Blue dye sublimation printer is exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by Hybrid Services – www.hybridservices.co.uk.
  
  

• Zünd D3 Cutter sets a new standard in productivity
  6 Jun 2016

  

  With the D3 cutter, Zünd brings to market a new, dual-beam system for high volume, industrial applications.

• Roland DG increases availability of sublimation machinery
  6 Jun 2016

  

  Roland DG has announced two new partnerships with leading suppliers of digital textile print systems R A Smart and i-Sub, as consumer demand for sublimation continues to rise.

• Mimaki scores a hat-trick at the EDP awards at drupa
  5 Jun 2016

  

  Mimaki has secured a hat-trick of European Digital Press Association (EDP) Awards, which were presented at drupa 2016.

• Mimaki scores a hat-trick at the EDP awards at drupa
  5 Jun 2016

  

  Mimaki has secured a hat-trick of European Digital Press Association (EDP) Awards, which were presented at drupa 2016.

• Xaar and GIS Collaborate on systems components for the Xaar 5601 printhead
  5 Jun 2016

  

  Xaar plc is delighted to announce its collaboration with Global Inkjet Systems (GIS).

• EFI launches new cloud-based Fiery Navigator software
  4 Jun 2016

  

  Electronics For Imaging has announced the release of Fiery Navigator, a new cloud-based product that gives print service providers insight into their production data.

• Dubai Production City promotes latest innovations at Drupa 2016
  2 Jun 2016

  

  A delegation from the management team of Dubai Production City (DPC),a member of TECOM Group, is currently participating at drupa 2016.

• Konica Minolta wins two cut-sheet industry awards from EDP Association
  2 Jun 2016

  

  Two of Konica Minolta’s digital presses have been recognised as best in their class by the European Digital Press (EDP) Association.

• QQD boosts output with Mimaki JV300-160 upgrade from i-Sub
  31 May 2016

  

  Leicester-based QQD Design and Print (QQD) recently purchased a Mimaki JV300-160 solvent printer from i-Sub Digital.

• QQD boosts output with Mimaki JV300-160 upgrade from i-Sub
  31 May 2016

  

  Leicester-based QQD Design and Print (QQD) recently purchased a Mimaki JV300-160 solvent printer from i-Sub Digital.

• Roland DG introduces fluorescent ink for Texart dye-sub solution
  31 May 2016

  

  Roland DG Corporation today announced the release of fluorescent ink specifically formulated for its Texart XT-640 and RT-640 wide-format dye-sublimation printers.

• Insight Print Media installs Zünd G3 at new premises in Bristol's creative quarter
  31 May 2016

  

  Insight Print Media Limited has expanded into new premises, complete with a new Zünd G3 L2500 digital cutting table and wide-format printing equipment.

• Fujifilm launches Acuity LED 3200R 3.2m superwide UV printer at Drupa
  30 May 2016

  

  Fujifilm has announced the launch of the new Acuity LED 3200R. Offering a maximum print width of 3.2m, the printer features the Acuity range’s superb quality and productivity, and will be shown for the first time at drupa 2016 in Dusseldorf, Germany on stand A25, Hall 8b from 31st May to 10th June.

  The Acuity LED 3200R roll printer - a rebadge of the recently launched Mimaki UJV55-320, which you can read more about here - builds on the success of the versatile Acuity LED 1600 II UV inkjet printer, launched in 2015 and the original Acuity LED 1600, introduced in 2012, both of which have gained wide market acceptance thanks to their ultra-high quality, application flexibility and ability to print on a wide range of roll and rigid media. The Acuity LED 3200R is set to build on the success of this range by extending the print width up to 3.2m, and further increasing print speeds.

  With a top speed of 110m2 per hour (1,184 ft2/hr), the Acuity LED 3200R satisfies customer demands for faster job turnarounds and lower output costs, whilst retaining the outstanding print quality that has come to be expected of the Acuity LED 1600 series. The printer features eight ink channels as standard (cyan, magenta, yellow, black, light cyan, light magenta, white and clear) and utilises Fujifilm’s renowned Uvijet ink range to reproduce an incredibly wide range of colors with smooth gradations, while ensuring superb ink adhesion to a wide range of substrates. The Acuity LED 3200R produces consistent vibrant colors with a high degree of opacity for optimal results in day/night applications. Instant-curing UV inks enable multi-layer printing that reproduces high-quality designs with two-layer or three-layer printing. The addition of a clear ink means high gloss spot varnish effects can also be created, enabling sign and display printers to produce real added value print.

  The Acuity LED 3200R will take media weighing up to 100 kilos (220 lbs) and can handle the printing of two rolls simultaneously, boosting productivity as two different images can be printed at the same time.

  Mike Battersby, Marketing Manager at Fujifilm Speciality Ink Systems, comments: “Our Acuity LED 1600 series has proved hugely successful due to its unique combination of quality, speed and versatility. We are delighted to be able to announce an additional model in the range, the Acuity LED 3200R, as it means we can provide an even wider choice of options to our customers. We look forward to demonstrating the wide range of added value print that this new printer can produce at drupa.”

  The Acuity LED 3200R will be commercially available in the middle of 2016, but as yet it is unclear whether it will share a similar pricepoint with the Mimaki UJV55-320 on which it is based.

   

• Fujifilm launches Acuity LED 3200R 3.2m superwide UV printer at Drupa
  30 May 2016

  

  Fujifilm has announced the launch of the new Acuity LED 3200R. Offering a maximum print width of 3.2m, the printer features the Acuity range’s superb quality and productivity, and will be shown for the first time at drupa 2016 in Dusseldorf, Germany on stand A25, Hall 8b from 31st May to 10th June.

  The Acuity LED 3200R roll printer - a rebadge of the recently launched Mimaki UJV55-320, which you can read more about here - builds on the success of the versatile Acuity LED 1600 II UV inkjet printer, launched in 2015 and the original Acuity LED 1600, introduced in 2012, both of which have gained wide market acceptance thanks to their ultra-high quality, application flexibility and ability to print on a wide range of roll and rigid media. The Acuity LED 3200R is set to build on the success of this range by extending the print width up to 3.2m, and further increasing print speeds.

  With a top speed of 110m2 per hour (1,184 ft2/hr), the Acuity LED 3200R satisfies customer demands for faster job turnarounds and lower output costs, whilst retaining the outstanding print quality that has come to be expected of the Acuity LED 1600 series. The printer features eight ink channels as standard (cyan, magenta, yellow, black, light cyan, light magenta, white and clear) and utilises Fujifilm’s renowned Uvijet ink range to reproduce an incredibly wide range of colors with smooth gradations, while ensuring superb ink adhesion to a wide range of substrates. The Acuity LED 3200R produces consistent vibrant colors with a high degree of opacity for optimal results in day/night applications. Instant-curing UV inks enable multi-layer printing that reproduces high-quality designs with two-layer or three-layer printing. The addition of a clear ink means high gloss spot varnish effects can also be created, enabling sign and display printers to produce real added value print.

  The Acuity LED 3200R will take media weighing up to 100 kilos (220 lbs) and can handle the printing of two rolls simultaneously, boosting productivity as two different images can be printed at the same time.

  Mike Battersby, Marketing Manager at Fujifilm Speciality Ink Systems, comments: “Our Acuity LED 1600 series has proved hugely successful due to its unique combination of quality, speed and versatility. We are delighted to be able to announce an additional model in the range, the Acuity LED 3200R, as it means we can provide an even wider choice of options to our customers. We look forward to demonstrating the wide range of added value print that this new printer can produce at drupa.”

  The Acuity LED 3200R will be commercially available in the middle of 2016, but as yet it is unclear whether it will share a similar pricepoint with the Mimaki UJV55-320 on which it is based.

   

• ArtSystems says great service is the best solution
  30 May 2016

  

  Nottingham-based distributor ArtSystems has been acquired by Westcoast Holdings. MD Steve Hawker explains what that will mean to its customers.

• Stratasys J750: Turning workflow into child's play
  30 May 2016

  

  Stratasys Gold Reseller SMG3D - www.smg3d.co.uk – discusses why the Stratasys J750 is your perfect companion throughout the design, development and production process, and how it turns workflow into child's play.

  Master of all Trades

  As any product developer knows, the entire process from idea to packaged product is a long and complex one. The job of a 3D printer supplier is to help at every stage, but at every stage there are different requirements. At last, there is one 3D printer that covers the whole process: the Stratasys J750, with its 6-material capacity.

  Let us pretend that we are designing and manufacturing a range of computer mice for children.

  Stage 1: Early Research

  Full-size mice are too big and cumbersome for kids. Therefore, we need to design the product to fit in smaller hands – but what is the right size and shape? The best way to find out is to 3D print a whole range of different sizes and shapes and then get some feedback. At this stage, we don’t need colour, we don’t need functionality, just precise, accurate models.

  Load up the lowest-priced material, place a range of designs on the bed and hit print. In next to no time, we are getting early feedback.

  Stage 2: Concept Models

  Once we have a good idea of size and shape, we need to get right into the concepts. Kids aren’t going to be inspired by a solid white mouse. They want fun – so let’s get creative. Now that we have the form, designers can mock up some cartoon, full-colour designs to get some more feedback – both from kids and from those all-important marketing folks.

  Load up the CMYK + White & Transparent materials into the J750 and print out those concepts in over 360,000 colours. What is on-screen will be printed. Perfect for people to get a real-life visual sample of the end product.

  Stage 3: Functional Testing

  Now that we have a funky-looking, ergonomically designed model, it is time to get functional. Let’s see how hard the button presses should be. Let’s fit on some some-touch sections in the correct Shore A value and a rolling soft-touch scroll wheel. Let’s make sure we design a secure battery compartment that inquisitive fingers can not access, but that adult fingers can. Let’s fill the whole thing with the actual electronics and test, test, test.

  Load up some functional plastics and rubbers into the J750 and make sure that this great looking and feeling product actually works in a real world environment.

  Stage 4: Moulding

  Naturally, the end product will not be 3D printed – the market is not there yet. It will instead be injection moulded. However, before we go to the expense of setting up the mould tools, let’s just check that the tools are designed correctly. So we need to 3D print the mould tools and use these to validate our designs. They will be good for dozens of shots, so we can make sure the mould tools are correct and get a very final test of the mouse in its final production plastics.

  Load up Stratasys’ Digital ABS into the J750, switch it into high speed mode and print out those mould tools.

  Stage 5: Production

  The J750’s contribution to time and cost savings are not over yet. There is a need for jigs and fixtures during the production process – during painting and finishing. There is also a need for robotic end-of-arm tools to assemble the mouse. All of these are cheaper and faster to produce, as well as lighter and better-designed, using 3D printing.

  Load up some rubber-like material with the Digital ABS and print out the exact jigs, fixtures and tools that you need. These can incorporate soft-touch grippers and have integrated air channels.

  Conclusion

  The Stratasys J750 is your companion right the way through the design, development and production process. This mouse was just one example of what could be done – but in any industry the steps are similar.

  In this video below, lead times at Synergy were cut by 90% and costs by 70%. Post processing of CNC machining and water printing, casting, sanding and silicone engraving as well as printing of additional parts were all eliminated by the use of one machine – the Stratasys J750.

  https://www.youtube.com/embed/qLV0hvA9Yhg?rel=0

• HP unleashes industry-leading digital print portfolio at Drupa 2016
  29 May 2016

  

  Today at drupa 2016, HP Inc. introduced a range of digital printing solutions designed to empower print service providers (PSPs) to reinvent their possibilities.

• Drupa 2016: big steps for Landa, giant steps for digital printing
  28 May 2016

  

  Landa opened Drupa 2016 with a flurry of announcements, revealing the company's robust line of Nanographic Printing presses that address all major print segments.

• X-Rite and Esko combine to show an extended gamut solution for converters
  27 May 2016

  

  X-Rite and Esko will showcase a range of colour and workflow solutions at Drupa to help printers and converters successfully transition to extended colour gamut or fixed palette printing.

• Enfocus and partners to demonstrate groundbreaking solutions at drupa
  27 May 2016

  

  At drupa 2016, Enfocus and its Solution Partners will highlight a range of integrations that don’t just touch the future, they automate it.

• EFI sparks new 'Imaging of Things' opportunities for print providers
  26 May 2016

  

  Electronics For Imaging is presenting its largest drupa tradeshow exhibit yet, showing the industry's most-advanced, integrated offering of digital production printing and workflow products.

• Landa names Elanders as European beta site for perfecting nanographic printing press
  26 May 2016

  

  Landa has named Elanders as a European beta site for the Landa S10P Nanographic Printing Press, Landa’s B1 (41 in. / 1,050 mm) perfecting press for general commercial printing.

• HP adds DesignJet Z5600 and Z2600 printers with chromatic red ink
  24 May 2016

  

  HP Inc. has expanded its proven HP DesignJet Z-series portfolio of high-impact graphics printers with a 44-inch multi-roll printer and the company’s most affordable 24-inch high-impact graphics printer.

  The HP DesignJet Z5600 and Z2600 PostScript Printers come with a six-ink printing system, which helps users cut costs by reducing ink consumption up to 20 percent, while still ensuring crisp colours.  These devices, designed for copy shops, retailers and corporations, specifically GIS departments, newly offer HP chromatic red ink which enhances the colour gamut, ideal for high-impact point of purchase (POP) signs and posters.

  “Our customers want colours that are vibrant, not muted; however they also need solutions that increase the colour gamut without excess inks,” said Xavier Garcia, general manager, Large-Format Sign and Display Division, HP Inc. “With today’s new printers, the HP DesignJet portfolio covers all graphic needs, from high-impact graphics to photo quality applications, enabling  users to differentiate from the competition.”

  The HP DesignJet Z5600 and Z2600 PostScript Printers produce diverse applications efficiently and with the highest quality standards, from eye-catching signs and posters to durable maps and technical drawings. For greater line accuracy and colour reliability, HP Professional PANTONE® colour emulation is included with Adobe® PostScript®/PDF, HP-GL/2. And smooth colour tones are achieved thanks to HP Multi-Dimensional Smart Drop Placement Technology, which provides increased levels of colour accuracy and reliable operation of the printer.

  “The HP DesignJet Z5600 opens exciting possibilities for our clients with the vibrant red that differentiates our graphics and technical drawings from competitors,” said Wilson Rodriquez, Speedi Pack. “In addition, with its impressive, straightforward operation and dual-roll, we spend more time serving customers than operating the printer.”  

  Quick and efficient high-impact graphics printing

  The 44-inch, automatic multi-roll HP DesignJet Z5600 PostScript Printer boosts media loading efficiency up to 75 percent and users can print up to 39 percent faster with quick-drying HP inks. For creating high-impact graphics, the pigment-based HP Vivid Photo inks are water and fade-resistant for maps and technical drawings that can last up to 200 years.

  HP’s most affordable 24-inch high-impact graphics printer

  HP’s most affordable 24-inch graphics printer, the new HP DesignJet Z2600 PostScript Printer saves up to 20 percent ink consumption using HP’s optimised six-ink printing system. With its radically simple, intuitive operation, no training is needed to use this compact printer, sized to fit any work space. Additionally, HP Vivid Photo Inks, including chromatic red ink, deliver high-impact images that leave a lasting impression. 

  Easy one-click printing

  Both new HP DesignJet Z-series printers include new HP DesignJet Click printing software to optimise time and simplify printing by enabling radically simple, one-click printing for all PDF, JPEG, TIFF, and HP-GL/2 files from a PC or Mac to the HP DesignJet Z-series printers. The software helps cut media costs with features like nesting and file error warnings, and users can now be more productive with real-time previews, along with driverless and multipage/multi-file PDF printing of posters, roll-up banners, CAD drawings, maps, and info-graphic presentations.

  HP DesignJet: reinventing large-format design since 1991

  With more than 3 million HP DesignJets installed around the world, it is hard to imagine that this printing revolution began 25 years ago with HP reinventing large-format design to launch the first inkjet large-format printer in 1991.

  This achievement is a reminder for HP to continue to reinvent the printing market and continually pioneer new technologies. Design is in the DesignJet name, so as HP looks to the next 25 years, the company will strive to find solutions and identify new possibilities, keeping technical and graphic design professionals needs at the centre of innovation.

  Availability

  HP DesignJet Z5600 and Z2600 Postscript Printers are expected to be available in mid-June 2016.

  Join HP to learn more about the HP DesignJet portfolio at drupa in Dusseldorf, Germany May 31-June 10, at Hexagon in Anaheim, Calif., U.S., June 13-16, and at Esri in San Diego, Calif., U.S, June 27-July 1.

  New product updates and videos can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HPdesigners, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/hpgraphicarts and on YouTube at www.youtube.com/hpgraphicarts 

  

   

• Roland DG announces the winner of its ‘Scratch & Win’ prize draw
  24 May 2016

  

  Roland DG has announced the winner of its popular ‘Scratch & Win’ prize draw which gave visitors at Sign & Digital UK 2016 the opportunity to add the latest piece of industry technology to their business.

• Evans Graphics agrees deal for Longier printer on QPS's Sign UK stand
  23 May 2016

  

  Evans Graphics is awaiting delivery of a new Longier Hunter FR3900 wide-format printer after signing on the dotted line on Quality Print Services's stand at Sign and Digital UK.

• Roland DG invites DRUPA delegates to discover the new TrueVIS VG
  23 May 2016

  

  DRUPA 2016 delegates will be instantly transported from Germany to Japan when they visit the Roland DG booth (Hall 9, Booth E04-1).

• Epson to debut DJet 10000 imposed print system at drupa
  23 May 2016

  

  Epson will demonstrate the DJet 10000 double-sided printing system for the first time at drupa (31st May-10th June 2016 in Hall 5/Stand A01). The 44-inch width 10-colour system has been developed by Swiss firm Digital Information and features two Epson SureColor SC-P10000 printers. The system has been designed for the ultra-fast production of double-sided imposition proofs - in 4-up (B2) and 8-up (B1) formats - and the economical production of short-run items such as display graphics, personalised books, leaflets and brochures.

  The DJet 10000 links pairs of Epson SC-P10000 printers in sequence but offset by 180° so that each prints one side of the uncut roll. Designed with minimum mechanical parts for greatest reliability and ease of operation, the DJet system includes a paper buffer loop between the two printers. Custom-developed control software adds identification and positioning codes to each job. These are read by video cameras and processed by the control software to confirm the alignment for the ‘back’ side of the printed roll. The system continuously registers the position of the printed paper, ensuring high precision front-to-back registration. Printed jobs can then be cut and folded as required to present a virtually finished book or brochure with correct pagination, or used as finished print for double-sided display material and similar applications. The DJet control software also supports common and proprietary bitmap as well as Epson file formats from a variety of leading prepress workflows and rips. Both imposed page proofs and brochure production will be demonstrated at drupa.

  The new 44-inch Epson SC-P10000 printer model used in the DJet 10000 system is also launched at drupa. The SC-P10000 incorporates the Epson PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead to deliver high quality output at superfast print speeds using a new UltraChrome Pro 10-colour ink-set. The high-density Photo and Matte Black inks and four levels of black combine to provide a rich and extended tonal range, necessary for accurate proofing for offset and in finished print production. Ultimately this new printer is very easy to operate, highly reliable and produces colour-calibrated prints.

  “The DJet 10000 is a smart and versatile system which unites Epson print quality and performance with Digital Information’s engineering and imposition control,” says Marc Boehmer, Epson Europe. “It gives users the flexibility to produce accurately imposed, double-sided, multi-page proofs as well as the ability to produce a range of quality printed products with low overall cost of ownership and fast return on investment.”

  The DJet 10000 is supplied by specialist reseller Bodoni Systems in the UK www.bodoni.co.uk

• What do Lamborghini and Roland DG have in common?
  18 May 2016

  

  Currently vaunted as the world’s most expensive hypercar, the new Lamborghini Veneno will set you back a cool £2.8 million – or you might prefer a new Bugatti Veyron Super Sports at £2 million. For those wanting to buy British, how about the Aston Martin One-77? It’s a snip at only £1.15 million.

  For those not so well-endowed in the trouser pocket, there’s always the option of starting out on your personal road to riches by investing the comparatively paltry sum of £9,999 on a Roland DG VersaExpress RF640 eco-solvent printer.

  But what is it exactly that the aforementioned items of illustrious hardware have in common?

  You might be surprised to discover that the entry level price point of the Roland belies the fact that – just like the Lambo, the Veyron and the Aston – the Roland DG printer is assembled entirely by hand.

  In fact, the Roland can possibly lay claim to having the advantage in the hand-made one-upmanship stakes; whilst the cars mentioned above will be assembled by a variety of production line workers with a range of particular skills, the Roland printer is entirely hand-assembled by one single technician. That’s right – every single Roland DG printer is assembled from the ground up by just one individual person within the manufacturing team.

  Using a manufacturing concept known in Japan as D-Shop or Digital Yatai, the whole Roland DG assembly process is directed by a step-by-step computer animation which guides the operator to the next action. Parts carousels are also PC-connected ensuring the correct part is selected. All screwdrivers are connected to the same system so that the correct pre-set torque setting is applied to every single screw.

  This Digital Yatai process reduced printer manufacturing failure rates at Roland DG to exactly zero overnight. Yes, you did read that correctly: manufacturing with zero defects.

  

  A Roland worker making an industrial printer follows prompts on the computer (1), pulling pieces from the rotating parts rack (2) and using digital screwdrivers (3) with a preset number of turns and torque.
  
  

  Assembly completed, that same Roland DG technician subsequently signs the printer. This creates an indelible audit trail that will forever identify that technician as being responsible for any production-related woes that might befall that printer during its working life. You simply do not find that degree of buck-stops-here accountability in manufacturing these days – not even if you buy a £2.8 million Lamborghini Veneno.

  Yet this assembled-by-hand production methodology – normally associated with low volume and high cost product – does not stop Roland DG producing outstanding product in sufficient volumes to meet the quotas required for worldwide printer sales. Volumes so impressive that InfoTrends recently reported Roland DG as the “World's Number One Seller of Wide-Format Printers” for the durable graphics market in 2015.

  Low cost, high quality product, produced in volume. That’s quite a demanding set of criteria – and perhaps even unique to Roland DG and its forward-thinking production methods.

  Not content to rest on its laurels, Roland DG still today continues to streamline its Digital Yatai production processes. New technologies have been implemented to automate a number of simple assembly operations, allowing employees to focus on more complex tasks requiring manual dexterity and a human touch.

  By combining state-of-the-art technology, innovative manufacturing processes and an individual’s human touch, Roland DG really has transformed its production processes to create a winning formula.

   

  You can see Roland DG Digital Yatai in action on this news footage from the PBS networks Nightly Business Report show:

  

   

   

• Stanford Marsh installs UK’s first HP PageWide XL 5000 at Go Cre8
  18 May 2016

  

  Stanford Marsh has installed the UK’s first HP PageWide XL5000 printer at Liverpool-based Go Cre8.

• Onyx Graphics showcasing in premier partner booths at drupa
  12 May 2016

  

  Onyx Graphics partners with many of the world’s leading large-format printer manufacturers and suppliers, including Epson, Canon and HP, to demonstrate the power and flexibility of ONYX 12 at drupa.

• Stanford Marsh wins HP PageWide Partner Award
  11 May 2016

  

  Stanford Marsh, a leading independent solutions provider for the wide-format and 3D print sectors, announced it has been presented with a prestigious PageWide Partner award by HP.

• W.C. O’Brien orders Ireland's first Mimaki UJV55-320 at SDUK
  11 May 2016

  

  Dublin-based W.C. O’Brien Sign & Print Ltd has placed an order for the first Mimaki UJV55-320 to be installed in Ireland.

• W.C. O’Brien orders Ireland's first Mimaki UJV55-320 at SDUK
  11 May 2016

  

  Dublin-based W.C. O’Brien Sign & Print Ltd has placed an order for the first Mimaki UJV55-320 to be installed in Ireland.

• Roland DG & Apsom Infotex display top machines at Screen Print India
  6 May 2016

  

  Roland DG and Apsom Infotex showcased sublimation and customisation machines at yet another spectacular event.

• HP celebrates 25 years of reliable DesignJet printers with U.S. sweepstakes
  6 May 2016

  

  HP launched the first inkjet HP DesignJet printer in 1991, replacing pen plotters and forever reinventing the design and print process of large-format technical drawings.

• HP propels PSP profitability with new Latex printers
  4 May 2016

  

  HP Inc. today introduced the HP Latex 500 Printer series and HP Latex 1500 Printer.

• Discover a world of new opportunities with Roland DG at drupa
  3 May 2016

  

  It will be a voyage of discovery for visitors to the Roland DG booth (Hall 9, Booth E04-1) at drupa 2016 as they explore the exciting new digital print opportunities.

• Nazdar welcomes AGA Color Solutions as partner in the Netherlands
  3 May 2016

  

  Ink specialist Nazdar has welcomed AGA Color Solutions as a partner in the Netherlands, where it will distribute digital and screen printing inks.

  Based in the city of Assen, the roots of AGA Color Solutions go back to the foundation of screen printing business Visprox in 1936, which was later acquired by Kiian. Over the years it evolved into an independent company with a cornerstone in screen printing but expertise in a range of printing processes.

  "AGA Color Solutions strives to be a reliable and knowledgeable partner for its customers and believes in building relationships that last with both customers and suppliers. Hit and run is not what we do," says Ifredo Baas, Managing Director, AGA Color Solutions.

  "Being an independent and agile company AGA Color Solutions is better suited to service the local customer base and we're delighted to become a Nazdar partner. Nazdar has played an active role in a changing industry and will continue to help shape the industry going forward. It's a company not crippled by its heritage, but instead using it to help its customers to move forward."

  He adds: 'The Nazdar company and its products are innovative yet reliable – showing that the two aspects can go together."

  Nazdar inks are developed as plug-and-play alternatives to OEM inks, at a lower price point but equal if not superior in quality, reliability and colour gamut. They are designed for specific printing systems, meaning end users can simply replace OEM cartridges with new Nazdar containers as they run out, with the assurance that they will be colour-matched and safe for their machines. Recent releases, for instance, include the Nazdar LWU705 Series UV ink formulated specifically for HP FB500/700 printers.

  On the partnership, Ronnie Coogan, Territory Manager – Europe, Nazdar Ink Technologies, comments: "We are delighted to be partnering with AGA in Holland. Identifying resellers that share our ethos of delivering quality products and added value is key to how Nazdar continues to grow.

  "AGA's reputation for customer service, technical knowledge and support in screen and digital is second to none. Our partnership will ensure our customers will continue to enjoy the highest standards of product, quality and service in the Netherlands."

  AGA Color Solutions has begun the partnership with the addition of Nazdar specialist screen printing inks to its range and has plans to add more product lines, such as digital UV inks, at a later date. Working across the screen and digital printing markets and graphic, industrial and textile applications, Ifredo Baas says 'AGA Color Solutions wants to be the value added partner of choice in all of these segments'.

  For more information on Nazdar and its comprehensive range of ink solutions, please visit www.nazdar.com.

  [Picture caption: AGA Color Solutions will supply a range of Nazdar ink.]

• Mimaki printed beagles show the way at Mountain Bike Event
  3 May 2016

  

  When the Red Bull Fox Hunt mountain bike event returned to the Pentland Hills outside Edinburgh recently, the organisers were looking for something a bit different in terms of event signage, and turned to Axminster-based Creative Solutions.

  Operations Manager and co-director of Creative Solutions Jedd Whittington explained: “We’ve been fortunate enough to work with Red Bull on a number of interesting projects since first being recommended over five years ago by a contact at Lyme Regis harbour where Red Bull were hosting a wakeboarding event, and we’re delighted that they continue to trust us to deliver signage and graphics for a number of major high profile events."

  The Fox Hunt format has been running for several years in Northern Ireland and in 2014 Downhill World Champion Rachel Atherton decided to launch a women-only version. It pits Rachel as the Fox - against the Hounds. More than 100 female mountain bikers in a mass-start race that turns the traditional concept of a fox hunt on its head, with the Fox chasing down the pack, attempting to pass as many riders as possible before reaching the end of the course.

  "I thought it would be so cool if we could get more women racing,” commented Atherton. "I wanted it to be a really welcoming way to get into competing. For a lot of people, it’s the first race they’ve ever done, and that’s awesome.”

  Whittington takes up the story from their perspective: “One of the key requirements was to print over 40 life-sized images of a beagle dog onto rigid PVC boards to be used as way-markers around the course, acting as a tongue-in-cheek reference to a real fox hunt. Our recently installed Mimaki JFX200-2513 LED UV flatbed printer was the perfect machine for the job, coping easily with the demand of high quality, high volume print."

  The company originally started out in 1999, producing relatively simple vinyl banners from their modest premises in Lyme Regis in Dorset. The business continued to expand and develop by producing an increasingly wide range of signage, exhibition graphics and other wide format print. In 2014 they moved to new premises in Axminster, Devon, where they now undertake all design, production and assembly in-house, providing greater control over the quality of product they send out of the door, as well as better management of turnaround times.

  In today’s competitive markets, adding value is key to business growth, and being able to respond to customers’ print requirements with ever more diverse products means having the necessary skills and experience, but equally importantly, having the right equipment for the job.

  Whittington has nothing but praise for his stable of Mimaki kit, continuing: “Since installing our first Mimaki printer in the early 2000’s, a JV3, we’ve come to depend on their inherent reliability. Since then we’ve had another JV3, a JV33 and more recently a JV150-160 as well as the JFX200. The way in which technology has developed the capabilities of subsequent machines is very impressive; improved resolution and quality of output is amazing and the speed at which they can deliver this sort of quality is breathtaking and improves both our productivity and profitability.”

  Whittington is also appreciative of the support he’s had from both Hybrid and its reseller; CMYUK, adding: “On the rare occasions a problem has arisen, the support from Hybrid has been superb, with the purchase and installation of the new JFX200 being handled in a highly professional manner by CMYUK, which was a huge relief as this was a significant investment for our business and a step into new territory for us.”

  Whittington has no doubt that their continued investment in a high quality arsenal of print and cut kit has had a major impact on their ability to retain and develop high-profile clients such as Red Bull.

  “A brand like Red Bull is always looking to push the creative boundaries and we work very closely with them to develop branded graphics and supporting materials which really make an impact. They demand the highest quality and very often to tight deadlines. The new equipment enables us to take on these kind of commissions with real confidence.”

  The 2015 Red Bull Fox Hunt proved to be a real success, with the event sold out in hours, and it’s easy to see why: the atmosphere at the weekend event is renowned for being fun, friendly and inclusive, with first-time racers as welcome as seasoned riders. No doubt Creative Solutions can take genuine pride in having played their part in such an exciting and successful event, as well as looking forward to the next.

  Further information about Creative Solutions can be found on their website www.creative-solutions-direct.co.uk.

  Mimaki's full product range can be found via its UK and Irish distributor, Hybrid Services at www.hybridservices.co.uk.

  For all other international enquiries please contact www.mimakieurope.com.

  [Photo caption: Creative Solutions' Mimaki JFX200 printed rigid boards for the event.]

• Mimaki printed beagles show the way at Mountain Bike Event
  3 May 2016

  

  When the Red Bull Fox Hunt mountain bike event returned to the Pentland Hills outside Edinburgh recently, the organisers were looking for something a bit different in terms of event signage, and turned to Axminster-based Creative Solutions.

  Operations Manager and co-director of Creative Solutions Jedd Whittington explained: “We’ve been fortunate enough to work with Red Bull on a number of interesting projects since first being recommended over five years ago by a contact at Lyme Regis harbour where Red Bull were hosting a wakeboarding event, and we’re delighted that they continue to trust us to deliver signage and graphics for a number of major high profile events."

  The Fox Hunt format has been running for several years in Northern Ireland and in 2014 Downhill World Champion Rachel Atherton decided to launch a women-only version. It pits Rachel as the Fox - against the Hounds. More than 100 female mountain bikers in a mass-start race that turns the traditional concept of a fox hunt on its head, with the Fox chasing down the pack, attempting to pass as many riders as possible before reaching the end of the course.

  "I thought it would be so cool if we could get more women racing,” commented Atherton. "I wanted it to be a really welcoming way to get into competing. For a lot of people, it’s the first race they’ve ever done, and that’s awesome.”

  Whittington takes up the story from their perspective: “One of the key requirements was to print over 40 life-sized images of a beagle dog onto rigid PVC boards to be used as way-markers around the course, acting as a tongue-in-cheek reference to a real fox hunt. Our recently installed Mimaki JFX200-2513 LED UV flatbed printer was the perfect machine for the job, coping easily with the demand of high quality, high volume print."

  The company originally started out in 1999, producing relatively simple vinyl banners from their modest premises in Lyme Regis in Dorset. The business continued to expand and develop by producing an increasingly wide range of signage, exhibition graphics and other wide format print. In 2014 they moved to new premises in Axminster, Devon, where they now undertake all design, production and assembly in-house, providing greater control over the quality of product they send out of the door, as well as better management of turnaround times.

  In today’s competitive markets, adding value is key to business growth, and being able to respond to customers’ print requirements with ever more diverse products means having the necessary skills and experience, but equally importantly, having the right equipment for the job.

  Whittington has nothing but praise for his stable of Mimaki kit, continuing: “Since installing our first Mimaki printer in the early 2000’s, a JV3, we’ve come to depend on their inherent reliability. Since then we’ve had another JV3, a JV33 and more recently a JV150-160 as well as the JFX200. The way in which technology has developed the capabilities of subsequent machines is very impressive; improved resolution and quality of output is amazing and the speed at which they can deliver this sort of quality is breathtaking and improves both our productivity and profitability.”

  Whittington is also appreciative of the support he’s had from both Hybrid and its reseller; CMYUK, adding: “On the rare occasions a problem has arisen, the support from Hybrid has been superb, with the purchase and installation of the new JFX200 being handled in a highly professional manner by CMYUK, which was a huge relief as this was a significant investment for our business and a step into new territory for us.”

  Whittington has no doubt that their continued investment in a high quality arsenal of print and cut kit has had a major impact on their ability to retain and develop high-profile clients such as Red Bull.

  “A brand like Red Bull is always looking to push the creative boundaries and we work very closely with them to develop branded graphics and supporting materials which really make an impact. They demand the highest quality and very often to tight deadlines. The new equipment enables us to take on these kind of commissions with real confidence.”

  The 2015 Red Bull Fox Hunt proved to be a real success, with the event sold out in hours, and it’s easy to see why: the atmosphere at the weekend event is renowned for being fun, friendly and inclusive, with first-time racers as welcome as seasoned riders. No doubt Creative Solutions can take genuine pride in having played their part in such an exciting and successful event, as well as looking forward to the next.

  Further information about Creative Solutions can be found on their website www.creative-solutions-direct.co.uk.

  Mimaki's full product range can be found via its UK and Irish distributor, Hybrid Services at www.hybridservices.co.uk.

  For all other international enquiries please contact www.mimakieurope.com.

  [Photo caption: Creative Solutions' Mimaki JFX200 printed rigid boards for the event.]

• Roland DG celebrates another successful year at SDUK 2016
  2 May 2016

  

  With five new machines on display at Sign & Digital 2016, its little wonder that the Roland DG UK stand stole the show.

• 'Pleasure Will Steal Your Soul' by Pixartprinting
  28 Apr 2016

  

  The unusual installation entitled 'Pleasure Will Steal Your Soul' from Pixartprinting, the leading European upload & print company, was unveiled to mark Design Week in Milan.

• SEI Laser introduces PaperOne for finishing and conversions
  28 Apr 2016

  

  PaperOne is the latest generation of a new modular platform for digital finishing and converting, featuring laser technology.

• Mimaki announces subsidiary in Turkey: Mimaki Eurasia
  28 Apr 2016

  

  Mimaki Europe B.V. represented by Managing Director Mimaki Europe, Mr.Koji Shimizu, is proud to announce the opening of the Mimaki Eurasia sales subsidiary.

• Mimaki announces subsidiary in Turkey: Mimaki Eurasia
  28 Apr 2016

  

  Mimaki Europe B.V. represented by Managing Director Mimaki Europe, Mr.Koji Shimizu, is proud to announce the opening of the Mimaki Eurasia sales subsidiary.

• Zünd UK to unveil whole new level of automation at drupa
  27 Apr 2016

  

  A brand new Zünd digital cutting system will be unveiled at drupa, from May 31st to June 10th in Düsseldorf, Germany, offering a whole new level of automation and productivity.

• Simplicity: the beauty of Drytac’s SpotOn printable vinyl
  26 Apr 2016

  

  When Seasalt Cornwall decided to open a new store in Canterbury, Kent, the company called upon Wallace Print to assist with a temporary printed graphic for the shop’s January 2016 launch.

• RGS fast-tracks services with two HP PageWide XL 8000 printers
  25 Apr 2016

  

  RGS ReproGraphic Solutions installed two HP PageWide XL 8000 Printers in its Las Vegas, Nevada location to expand and increase its large-format colour printing capabilities.

• New stretchable UV ink from Mimaki expands possibilities
  25 Apr 2016

  

  Mimaki has announced that it will be making a brand-new ink available in Summer 2016.

• New stretchable UV ink from Mimaki expands possibilities
  25 Apr 2016

  

  Mimaki has announced that it will be making a brand-new ink available in Summer 2016.

• More than 40% of Sign & Digital UK stand space already rebooked for 2017
  23 Apr 2016

  

  Sign & Digital UK has delivered another stellar show experience, with a host of sales, product launches and new show features. Plans are already underway for the exhibition’s 30th anniversary, with 42% of the 2016 floor space already rebooked for 2017.

  Companies already booked for Sign & Digital UK 2017 include Blackman & White, Biesse, CMYUK, Complete CNC Solutions, Digital Blanks, Fairfield Displays, Graphic Printing Technologies (GPT), Inktec/Jetrix, Innotech, Perfect Colours, PrintMAX, Resolute DTG, Rollsroller, Signmaster Systems, Signwaves, Soyang Europe, Ultima Displays and Your Print Specialists (YPS).

  The three-day event took place at the NEC Birmingham from 19 to 21 April 2016 and was attended by 6,240* unique visitors from across the UK, Ireland and rest of the world. The show featured a host of exclusive product launches, live demonstrations, more than 35 daily seminars and workshops. New for this year was the Digital Signage Theatre, plus the “Become a Wrap Expert” workshop featuring two of the world’s leading vehicle wrapping experts. 

  Strong sales were reported across all three days of the show, with many exhibitors commenting on the quality and genuine interest of the visitors who came to their stands.

  Rudi Blackett, event director, said: “This year’s show has been another huge success! The combination of exclusive product launches and good quality visitors resulted in a buying bonanza across all three days. We’ll be celebrating 30 years of Sign & Digital UK in 2017, and with record re-bookings, it is set to be a great anniversary event. We look forward to seeing everyone back at the NEC Birmingham from 28 to 30 March 2017.”
   
  * Subject to audit

   

• Phoseon Technology and Nazdar announce upcoming live Webinar
  21 Apr 2016

  

  Phoseon Technology and Nazdar partner to present a live webinar designed to educate and inform participants on LED curing technology for narrow web flexographic printing.

• Westcoast announces acquisition of ArtSystems
  20 Apr 2016

  

  IT distributor Westcoast has announced the acquisition of ArtSystems, the Nottingham-based specialist distributor.

• Drytac Europe and Roland DG team up for Sign & Digital UK 2016
  20 Apr 2016

  

  Drytac Europe has announced that its Polar range of printable self-adhesive vinyls (SAVs) are now Roland-approved and will be demonstrated on the Roland DG stand (H30) throughout Sign & Digital UK 2016.

• CMYUK signs deal with The Handsome Prints on the first day of SDUK
  19 Apr 2016

  

  Within hours of the show opening, CMYUK shook hands on their stand at Sign & Digital UK with The Handsome Prints Co for a Mimaki JFX200-2513 UV Flatbed printer.

• The skies are ‘Blue’ for MTEX at Sign & Digital UK
  18 Apr 2016

  

  Even the glorious April weather has come out in support of MTEX’s ‘blue sky thinking’ at Sign & Digital UK!

• Exclusive show offer from Tecna Display at SDUK 2016
  18 Apr 2016

  

  Tecna Display is offering customers up to 45% off a T3 Affinity wall and counter in an exclusive deal available only at Sign & Digital UK.

• MTEX to celebrate a year of growth and innovation at SDUK
  17 Apr 2016

  

  MTEX will be celebrating a year of outstanding growth and innovation at Sign & Digital UK by showcasing the high speed version of its world leading MTEX 5032 printer.

• DECAL & NetScreen present innovative solutions at SDUK 2016
  15 Apr 2016

  

  Solvent free adhesives from Decal Adhesive - Think Green and LED technology equipment from NetScreen will be highlighted at Sign & Digital UK 2016.

• Blackman & White to showcase new software and more at SDUK
  15 Apr 2016

  

  British large format finishing manufacturer Blackman & White (B&W) will be promoting its market-leading flatbed cutters, routers and laser cutters at Sign and Digital UK.