British Photographic Industry News September 2018

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SEPTEMBER 2018 • £3

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PHOTOKINA, HERE WE COME Previewing new gear we’re likely to see from Canon, Fujifilm, Leica, Nikon, Panasonic, Sigma & more!

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IN THIS ISSUE…

EISA AWARD WINNERS

NIKON PRO MIRRORLESS

THE BIG INTERVIEW

BUSINESS ADVICE

To fuel your own sales, we reveal the photo kit selected by the European Imaging & Sound Association as the year’s best

The wraps are finally off Nikon’s exciting full frame Z6 and Z7 mirror-less cameras. BPI News reports from the launch

Q&A with new Fujifilm UK MD Yoshitaka Nakamura, asking if lessons learned from Japanese retail can work wonders here

How to maximise profit for your photo business & minimise risk; plus, tips on getting the most from Photokina

I AM TAKING CHANCES

JOE McNALLY INTRODUCES THE NIKON FULL FRAME D850.

To launch the new Nikon D850, iconic fashion photographer Joe McNally was given the creative freedom to capture the image of a lifetime, shot on the D850. Thanks to the powerful combination of the 45.7MP FX format back-side illuminated CMOS sensor and the speed of 9*fps shooting, he could tell a story like never before.

With ISO 64 to 25600, 153-point AF, 8K time-lapse** and full frame 4K UHD video, now you too can capture your masterpiece. To find out more about the D850, visit www.nikon.co.uk *Requires the optional MB-D18 Multi-Power Battery Pack, EN-EL-18a/b battery, BL-5 battery cover and MH-26a charger. **Requires Interval Timer settings and 3rd party software.

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A CRUCIAL TIME FOR THE PHOTO INDUSTRY S

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Gavin Stoker, Editor gavin@bpinews.co.uk @GavinStoker

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Editorial | September 2018

COVER IMAGE: It’s a busy time for the photo trade – with big announcements from Nikon, Panasonic, Leica et al in this issue – and looks set to get even busier with further releases scheduled around Photokina at the month’s end. As ever, BPI News is keeping you in the picture!

o, as the last rays of summer fade and we begin planning for the crucial run up to Black Friday and Christmas trading – kick-started by new camera releases in advance of (and surrounding) German trade show Photokina later this month – how did you fare during July and August?

With latest retail figures suggesting that consumers were out and spending again in May and June, buoyed up by positivity surrounding the Royal Wedding and World Cup, after the ‘Beast from the East’ froze sales the first few months of the year, it will be interesting to see how the subsequent heatwave – delivering the longest dry stretch for 42 years – affected sales for the photo trade. Did transactions rise in line with the mercury, or was it

meltdown as far as money through the till goes? As ever, share your news and views with us via info@bpinews.co.uk.

Of course, customers have to be excited and enthused by product in order for retailers to be able to sell it – and in this Photokina month the manufacturers are lending a helping hand by issuing product actually worth talking about. The most notable at the time of writing is Nikon’s longpromised full frame mirror-less system, following on from its short-lived Nikon ‘1’ series of a few years back. All being well, this could see the manufacturer pricking the interest of professionals who might otherwise have been tempted

by Sony’s well-received A7 series (or, indeed, any number of smaller sensor offerings from Fuji, Canon, Olympus, Panasonic et al). But we also have newsworthy releases from most of those other brands too, as we’d expect at this crucial time of year. Turn over the page to our news section for more on what you should be stocking up on.

New kit aside, there’s also some changing faces (and places) in the trade this month, as we quiz the new Japanese MD at Fujifilm UK and report on a new (yet familiar) National Sales Manager at Sigma, along with a new Business Development Manager at Swains plus new team members at Wilkinson Cameras. It’s an old adage that nothing stays the same for long, and while there are plenty of old hands among us in the photo trade, new blood and ideas are also vital for continued success. On that note, we’ll be back next month to report on all the new gear and ideas from Cologne – don’t miss it!

BPI News | September 2018 3

News

promotions Camera AG

pairs it with the Fujinon XF1.4x TC f/2 WR Teleconverter, which, as it indicates, extends the lens’ focal length by 1.4 times and allows it to cover a focal length equivalent to 427mm at f/2.8. SRP for this one is a sizeable £5399.

In related news, Fuji has announced its intention to increase production capacity for interchangeable lenses by as much as 70% by 2020, in response to what it claims is a growing demand for mirrorless cameras, as well as in an attempt to further broaden the appeal of its X and GFX series cameras. Its current lens line up offers 36 options, with sales, Fuji says, expanding at a rate of 20% per annum.

Finally, it has also published a new ‘lens roadmap’ which reveals the development of a wide angle compact prime lens in the XF16mm f/2.8 R WR, constant f/4 standard zoom in the XF16-80mm f/4 R OIS WR and ultra fast prime lens in the XF33mm f/1 R WR. More news as we have it. In the meantime you’ll be able to find Fujifilm at Photokina this month in Hall 04.2. www.fujifilm.co.uk

Lumix National Trust POS

RetailersComplimentary will be hoping 12 month national trust for queues aplenty membership with the lumiX FZ200 or FZ72 Description • Complimentary National for the manufacturer’s new Coolpix P1000 Trust Membership super zoom, launched this month. The angleCampaign POS to pitch to your customers is that this is the world’s only compact camera to feature a massive 125x optical reach; translating as the equivalent of a 24-3000mm range in 35mm terms, with maximum f/2.8 lens aperture. Indeed Nikon is calling this model ‘the camera that thinks it’s a telescope’ and including pictures taken A3 Poster of the moon with its press release.

Wobbler With a 3.2-inch, 921k dot resolution LCD £999, with availability that can be tilted and twisted in almost any from early this month. direction, a large grip, Dual Detect Optical While that may sound a Vibration Reduction, support for Raw lot, Nikon UK Product Manager capture plus 4K video shooting, the price Chelsey Lavall makes the point: “This for the 16 megapixel model is a suggested compact megazoom is less than a quarter ©National Trust Images/Matthew Antrobus

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LM WR (below left) and XF200mm f/2 R LM OIS WR, the latter of which is being paired in a kit with an XF1.4x TC f/2 WR Teleconverter (second from left).

Described as lightweight yet robust, the dust and moisture resistant 8-16mm option provides the equivalent of 1224mm in 35mm terms, suggesting, says Fuji, that it is ideal for landscape and architectural photography. Available from late November, the SRP is £1799.

The 200mm optic meanwhile arrives in late October and provides a focal length equivalent to 305mm in 35mm terms, making it suitable for photographing sports and wildlife, while being able to deliver beautiful ‘bokeh’ type effects. It is available as a kit that

NIKON SHOOTS FOR THE MOON WITH TELESCOPIC CAMERA

to take a speCial piCture you need to go to speCial plaCes Now you and your family can discover hundreds of new special places with the National Trust and capture every stunning detail with the award-winning new LUMIX FZ200 or FZ72.

Promotional period: 22/08/2013 – 31/12/2013. Promotional terms apply, please see panasonic.co.uk/promotions *Leica is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH. ELMARIT is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG

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Complimentary 12 month national trust membership with the lumiX FZ200 or FZ72

©National Trust Images/Matthew Antrobus

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Summer holidays may have drawn to a close, but there is a new premium feel travel compact in town – albeit one with a difference. Launched last month and arriving in a choice of either ‘champagne’ or allblack finish, rather than featuring a massive optical zoom reach, the Fujifilm XF10 instead goes for a wide angle 18.5mm fixed lens providing the 35mm equivalent of 28mm with an aperture of f/2.8, suggesting an application for landscape photography. The other point of interest to pitch to customers is a 24.2 megapixel APS-C sensor. Hoping to hook Instagram app obsessives and medium format fans, it additionally offers a new 1:1 square ratio capture format, a first for Fuji’s ‘X’ series, which can be implemented with a flick of the camera’s touch screen. This being a Fuji camera we also get 11 film simulation modes on board, 6fps continuous capture, Bluetooth connectivity, plus 4K video option.

Suggested retail price for the camera, which weighs a portable 280g, is £449.

For existing mirror-less interchangeable lens X series camera owners meanwhile, the manufacturer also has a pair of new lenses in the Fujinon XF8-16mm f/2.8 R

©National Trust Images/Matthew Antrobus

onth national trust e lumiX FZ200 or FZ72

NEW FUJI TRAVEL COMPACT, PREMIUM ‘X’ LENSES

of the weight of a DSLR camera with a normal super-telephoto lens attached, making it extremely portable and great for travelling.” www.nikon.co.uk

to take a speCial piCture you need to go to speCial plaCes Now you and your family can discover hundreds of new special places with the National Trust and capture every stunning detail with the award-winning new LUMIX FZ200 or FZ72.

Hang Tag

Photographic Promotional period: 22/08/2013 – 31/12/2013. Promotional terms apply, please see panasonic.co.uk/promotions *Leica is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH. ELMARIT is a registered trademark of Leica Camera AG

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4 September 2018 | BPI News

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News

EISA AWARDS WINNERS 2018-2019 REVEALED

Familiar names to BPI News readers have once again bagged plaudits from the technical press editors from 23 European countries that make up the annual EISA (European Imaging & Sound Association) Awards judging panel. Voting stipulates that the products in question must have been analysed in the various publications over the past 12 months – the results hopefully providing retailers with extra ammunition when attempting to make a sale.

Picking up a ‘Best Product’ EISA this year in the ‘zoom lens’ category is the Sigma 14-24mm f/2.8 DG HSM ‘Art’ lens (second from right). Pitched at full frame DSLR owners, the judges said: ‘This Sigma lens is a really impressive performer. It’s rare to find a bright extreme wide angle zoom of this kind with very high sharpness.’

Also celebrated as the best prime lens

by EISA is the Canon EF 85mm f/1.4L IS USM. In fact the manufacturer was acclaimed for four of its products this year, with the Canon EOS 6D Mark

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II (front row, far left) named the best DSLR, the EOS M50 named the year’s ‘best buy’, plus its Speedlite 470EXAI the year’s best ‘photo innovation’.

Canon UK’s Marketing Director Lee Bonniface believes the wins are an ‘acknowledgment of Canon’s relentless focus on unrivalled image quality.’

The judges further declared the Tamron 70-210mm f/4 Di VC USD (back row, far right) and 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III RXD the year’s best DSLR tele zoom and mirrorless standard zoom respectively. The brand has been honoured with EISA awards for the past 13 consecutive years, with the panel saying of the 28-75mm: ‘a very good performance at a highly competitive price’ and of the 70-210mm: ‘a great choice for enthusiast photographers.’

The biggest run of awards was however reserved for Sony, with its Alpha 7 Mark III (back row) being declared camera of the year, the A7R Mark III best professional mirrorless camera, the RX10 IV best superzoom

camera, plus the FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM best mirrorless wide angle zoom lens. Best mirrorless telezoom lens also went to the manufacturer for its FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS (third from right). Staying imaging related, Sony’s VPL-VW760ES device was also named premium projector.

Other ‘big beasts’ were recognised too: Best professional DSLR went to the Nikon D850 (front row, right), which also bagged best professional lens for its AF-S Nikkor 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED VR, while the Fujifilm X-H1 (front centre right) was the judges’ choice for mirrorless camera. Staying with mirrorless, the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S (back row, right) was named the year’s best ‘Photo Video Camera’.

Best photo service meanwhile went to the CEWE Photobook Pure, while best smartphone of the past annum according to EISA is the Huawei P20 Pro. For the full range of judges’ findings visit the URL below. www.eisa.eu/awards/photography/

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BPI News Extra

NEW STAFF & NEW ACCOUNTS FOR SWAINS

It’s all go at the leading distributor this month with the appointment of a new Business Development Director and Credit Control Manager, plus an exciting new photography-related product in the KiiPix. BPI catches up with the news…

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he leading distributor has a new recruit in Nick Grey, formerly of Hama and Celestron, who is due to take up the role of Business Development Director from September 3rd.

Swains adds that Nick’s involvement with the photo trade goes back a long way – back to the early 1980s in fact, when he began his career with Hanimex UK Ltd. MD Danny Williams says: “We are extremely pleased that Nick is joining the company and we welcome his extensive experience in the industry, which will be of great benefit to the business as we continue to develop and grow. Alan Comer and I worked with Nick back in the eighties, so it is nice that we can bring that team back together once again.”

In other Swains news, Credit Control Manager Annette Goldring, who had been with the company for almost 30 years, retired at the end of June. Her replacement is Abi Hill, who started with the company on June 25th.

Alan Comer of Swains adds: “Annette began her career with Swains in 1989, starting in the sales department and then spending over 10 years in credit control.

Naturally everyone in the office will miss her. We are delighted, though, to introduce Abi to the business, and I am confident she will continue the excellent relationships that Annette has developed with our customers over the years.

“Annette would also like to pass on her thanks to everyone who has been so kind with their messages and cards wishing her all the best for her retirement.”

SWAINS APPOINTED UK DISTRIBUTOR FOR KIIPIX The other exciting news this month is a new product Swains is calling: ‘the photo industry’s best opportunity to appeal to new customers time and time again’.

“We are delighted to have been appointed the UK channel distributor for KiiPix. I don’t believe there is anything else currently in the market that offers you an opportunity to attract so many new customers, all of whom will hopefully return to your store” Swains MD Danny Williams

Above: Swains’ new Business Development Director Nick Grey Above right & below: Swains’ new product proposition in KiiPix including the point of sale display options the distributor can provide its retail partners

That product is KiiPix, manufactured by TOMY, which is a printer that allows smartphone users to print their images in seconds directly onto ever popular (and widely available) Fujifilm Instax film. This also gives potential customers another reason to return to your store to keep stocking up on film packs.

Claiming that there are currently over 30 million people in the UK with billions of images stored on their smartphones, Swains makes the point that many teenagers have never experienced instant photography before. With Fujifilm’s Instax and new Polaroid cameras doing well in the market, it’s already one of the fasting growing areas of the UK photo industry.

With no cables or batteries involved, the KiiPix is described as simple to use and conveniently portable. Available in three colours and with an affordable guide price of £39.99 (not including an Instax film), Swains sees it as a winner for its retail partners.

“We are delighted to have been appointed the UK channel distributor for KiiPix,” enthuses Swains MD Danny Williams. “I don’t believe there is anything else currently in the market that offers you an opportunity to attract so many new customers, all of whom will hopefully continue to return to your store.

“To help create maximum impact in-store we have both counter and floor merchandisers along with window POS. Following the launch earlier in the year in Japan, TOMY has launched a national TV and cinema campaign.

“We are already being approached by many non-traditional photo retailers, who see just how successful this product will be in the market and are looking to increase their customer footfall.

So please don’t let this opportunity pass you by and make sure you have placed your order with Swains!” www.swains.co.uk

For more info call Swains on 01485 536200, email sales@swains.co.uk or speak to your Swains Regional Sales Manager 6 September 2018 | BPI News

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BPI News Extra

‘Z’ JUST THE START FOR NIKON Finally the much-anticipated mirror-less ‘Z’ system has launched with two models: the Z6 and Z7

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ikon has revealed its longpromised full frame mirror-less camera system, debuting two new models. The new ‘Z’ series has its own dedicated mount, meaning that existing Nikon F-mount DSLR lenses will be need to be used via adapter (the FTZ, at £269 SRP). Still, the manufacturer says that its expertise in DSLR has ‘critically contributed’ to the new Z6 and Z7 devices, which is exciting news for photo enthusiasts, meaning that expectation levels among your customers will be sky high.

Choosing the Design Museum for its London launch – inferring, perhaps, that the Z6 and Z7 will themselves one day be seen as design classics – Nikon’s Head of Product Management Tim Carter told us that “to enter the mirrorless market effectively, we recognised that we needed two cameras.”

Nikon Europe President Toru Iwaoka added that: “Nikon has never stayed still” and “we have listened to our customers”, describing the introduction of the new Z mount as “groundbreaking… it offers a new horizon of With our DSLR line up and the new Z system you can opportunities.” Mr Iwaoka also said that have the best of both worlds. Our aim is to claim back the the brand wanted number one position in the full frame market.” to “be desirable Tim Carter, Head of Product Management to a new breed of whereas it sees the Z6 as having a wider digital artisans” and that three new Z appeal, particularly for those looking series lenses launched in tandem offered to shoot 4K-video. At the core of each “breathtaking” optical performance, camera is a back illuminated FX format concluding that the Z series sees “the CMOS sensor, with the suggestion being mirror-less system re-invented.” that the Z7 is capable of better image Tim further informed us that Nikon had quality than even the D850. As well as a three key considerations as regards said tilting back screen and separate OLED system’s development: it had to set new top panel display, both units feature optical standards, it had to optimize sensor a 3.6 million-dot resolution EVF. resolution, and, thirdly, retain ergonomics.

Further enticing features include AF “The new mount was a big decision for us, Nikon has launched coverage across 90% of the frame and having used the same mount since 1959.” three compatible in-camera five-axis sensor shift VR lenses & announced (equivalent to five stops), said to enable IT TAKES TWO a fourth. From L to a stunning performance when shooting R: 24-70mm, 35mm f/1.8, 50mm f/1.8 and handheld. Both offer weather and dust It’s not all about the new Nikon mount resistance the same as the D850, a new though; there are two ‘Z’ cameras because forthcoming 58mm f/0.95. Shown directly Expeed 6 image processor, and are said there are two resolutions and two price below is the FTZ

by Nikon’s Tim Carter to be “the most points being offered to consumers. mount adapter Although outwardly identical, the Z7 is the ‘bigger’ brother, boasting 45.7 megapixels, an ISO range of 64-25,600 and 9fps shooting. The second option is the Z6, offering 24.5 megapixels, ISO10051,200, plus 12fps burst shooting.

In terms of target users for retailers to pitch to, Nikon suggests the Z7 is the model for pros and multimedia creators,

competent movie cameras Nikon has ever made”, with both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity also supported. Interestingly, rather than offer SD card support, Nikon has instead opted for XQD and CF Express as its recommended media.

For a limited period a free XQD card is being offered with both cameras.

As mentioned, the cameras will be joined on launch by three new Nikkor Z system ‘S’ line lenses in a 35mm f/1.8 (£849 SRP), 50mm f/1.8 (£599 SRP) and 24-70mm f/4 kit zoom lens (£999). It is also developing a large aperture 58mm f/0.95 S Noct lens.

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The aforementioned FTZ mount adapter meanwhile allows direct and full use of up to 93 existing Nikon optics. In addition, most existing Nikon flashguns are also claimed to “work just fine” with the new Z series. With CIPA standards stating a battery life of 330 shots for the Z7 and 310 for the Z6, Nikon has also announced it is developing a MB-N10 battery pack for the cameras, to hold two batteries.

“With our DSLR line up and the new Z system you can have the best of both worlds,” Nikon’s Tim Carter concluded.

“Our aim is to claim back the number one position in the full frame market.”

Price wise, it’s £3,399 SRP body-only for the Z7 and £2,099 SRP for the Z6 body.

As retailers will be aware, there are also numerous body, zoom lens and mount adapter combinations being offered on launch. The Z7 arrives in late September, with the Z6 following in November. The lenses and adapter also arrive between those dates. Both cameras are sure to be major talking points at Photokina later this month, where Nikon can be found in Hall 02.2 on stand A020. www.nikon.co.uk

Two new full frame mirror-less Nikons in the 45.7 megapixel Z7 and the 24.5 megapixel Z6. www.nikon.co.uk 8 September 2018 | BPI News

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BPI News Photokina Preview

THREE GREAT REASONS TO MEET PHOTOXPORT AT PHOTOKINA

There are a number of reasons to seek out PhotoXport MD Derek Fieldhouse at Photokina this year – including that he’ll be holding meetings with the trade regarding three of his company’s key offerings: Noritsu, Citizen and Pixel Tech

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ith Leicester’s printer specialist PhotoXport telling us that it has doubled its annual amount of business this year, it really is all systems go as we approach Photokina this month. Not only does it have the latest raft of Noritsu labs, originally launched back in March, to talk about, but also a Citizen based SnapFoto instant print system tailored to mobile phone printing, along with ID Photos Pro 8 software to help the photo trade rise to the challenge of – and realise the profit in – offering ID photography compliant with the latest Passport Office rules.

Given the above you’ll want to get in touch with PhotoXport MD Derek Fieldhouse on 0116 2675907 to make an appointment in Cologne.

seamless experience for the end user.

The result is hassle free print operation and one that consistently delivers excellent print quality. Speak to Derek for more.

a broader range of profitable print orders.

In addition, Derek teases that there will be a new, 12-inch wide compact printer released into the European market – further details of which can be had at Photokina, where Derek will be resident on Noritsu’s stand. “It’s going to lower the cost per print – potentially leading to bigger profits for our retail partners.”

CITIZEN BASED SNAPFOTO

NORITSU’S LATEST GREEN III & IV DRY LABS Don’t have the volume of orders to make a sizeable investment in a wet lab a possibility, but still want a workhorse capable of delivering prints quickly, economically and profitably? The latest Noritsu Green IV and Green III labs will again take pride of place at Photokina.

The Green IV is an evolution of its well-received Green Simplex. It’s smaller, yet features a 12-inch track, compared to the 10-inch track of the Simplex. This means it is able to produce prints up to 12x69-inches. An external cassette adds versatility and allows the loading of up to three different paper sizes at once.

Alternatively, Noritsu’s Green III is similar to the Green II, apart from the fact that it has a paper loop on the back that allows it to produce a longer print, at 12x55-inches. Hence there’s possibility for

The second recommended PhotoXport solution pairs a Citizen CX-02 dye sub photo-printer with a SnapFoto tablet, enabling photo retailers, phone retailers and mini labs to have an efficient, easy instant photo kiosk printer, with unique smart phone connectivity as well, thus enabling instant prints from mobile phones in seconds.

Added benefits include a combined footprint of just 275x366mm – the exact same as the Citizen CX-02 dye sub printer that makes up its chief component – ensuring the compact SnapFoto fits a broad range of retail spaces. On top of this, specially developed software ensures a user-friendly interface, and one that doesn’t rely on any form of dedicated mobile app to communicate with and transfer images between mobile devices. In fact, the unit broadcasts its own dedicated SSID signal, making for simple Wi-Fi connectivity and a familiar, secure and

Bound for Cologne: PhotoXport and Noritsu will be back at Photokina this month to meet trade partners and show off its Green III and IV machines (far left).

Shown from right to left: PhotoXport MD Derek Fieldhouse plus Noritsu’s Sales Manager Mr Higashi and software specialist Luke Stutters Derek will also be talking to the trade about Citizen Photo (bottom of page) plus options for ID photos (on right)

ID PHOTOS PRO 8 SOFTWARE You’ll be aware of new procedural changes introduced by the Passport Office back in May that allow people to upload a digital photo with their application form. To avoid its retail partners missing out on such revenue, PhotoXport has worked with the company Pixel Tech on its own solution in ID Photos Pro 8 software, complete with ePassport and photo code feature. It’s offering customers a printer and software bundle, so they have all they need to start producing Passport Office-compliant photo ID. ID Photos Pro 8 is one of the fastest and most precise tools on the market, says Derek, who adds that only 10 seconds are needed from loading an image, to its verification, to the final print. The software also has a built-in database affording access to over 250 formats from more than 80 countries.

Naturally, there is an opportunity here for photo stores to profit, both from print and a digital file, the latter of which costs the retailer nothing, beyond initial investment and time.

To enquire about any of the above brands and place an order, call the photo experts now on 0116 2675907. At the time of writing PhotoXport was continuing to expand its offerings by finalising plans to become a new distributor for a wide format printer from a household name – get the heads up by talking to the team!

Call PhotoXport about Noritsu, Snapfoto and ID Photos Pro 8 software on 0116 2675907 now! www.photoxport.com @bpi_news

BPI News | September 2018 9

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250th EPSON SURELAB D3000 SOLD INTO LONDON PHARMACY BY TETENAL Photographic Distributor Tetenal achieve completion of the 250th Epson SureLab D3000 installation at London-based Munro Pharmacy, helping them upgrade to the leading Epson inkjet solution from their previous thermal dry lab.

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unro Pharmacy, a family run business based in East London has been serving customers for over two decades and has provided an on-site photographic service for the last 18 years.

Chief Operations Executive Rochelle Hall has been working closely with Tetenal to integrate photo retail services into both sites and grow it further year by year. Recently she has decided to commit to an Epson inkjet solution with the SureLab D3000 which has recently been installed at the High Street North branch by Tetenal.

offer much better quality prints as well as a larger range of print sizes. Two key factors which have already increased our sales in the short time we have been printing with the new lab.”

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In addition to the benefits of the dry lab itself, Rochelle further points out why she chose Authorised Epson Partner Tetenal when purchasing the equipment: “After working together with Tetenal for many years, they were the first point of contact for us when looking at new equipment.

The fact that Tetenal offer technical service in addition to selling the Rochelle explains why this has been equipment is also a plus as we can an important development for the rely on Tetenal’s support if there are business: “The Epson SureLab is a big any issues.” step forward for us. The professional quality, lower maintenance requirements and additional print Why the Epson SureLab? sizes are only a few of the benefits The worldwide leaders in inkjet print that convinced me to commit to this innovation, have a complete range new photo lab.” of inkjet photo printing solutions suitable for your business. The Epson When speaking to Munro Pharmacy Surelab Printer Range sets new earlier this year, Tetenal Hardware levels of photo print performance.

Manager Chris Castle saw the Whether you’re a Schools Lab, a potential to grow the pharmacy’s Production Lab or a Retail Photo photo department even further with Centre or Pharmacy, the scalable the Epson SureLab D3000. Rochelle Epson solutions will offer you the remembers how Chris advised her most advanced level of inkjet photo at the time: “Chris explained that the printing available.

Epson solution would enable us to

Suhail, Photographic Technician (left) and Maan, Photographic Team Leader at Munro Pharmacy

Here is what some of Tetenal’s Epson SureLab customers think:

“ “ “

Bringing all our printing in-house with the D3000 has been the right decision and a big step forward”

The Epson SureLab D3000

Steve Thomas, Lancaster University We opted for the dual roll SureLab D3000 which allows us to switch quickly between types of paper as well as sizes” John Wilson, John Wilson Photography

Our new Epson system is much more user-friendly than our previous one, it’s also much safer, cleaner and greener than wet labs” Bob Sears, Framing Success

Distributed Distributed in in the the UK UK by

by Tetenal Tetenal Ltd Ltd

|| www.tetenaluk.com www.tetenaluk.com

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Epson showroom at Tetenal’s Leicester Offices

EPSON AND TETENAL Two leaders, one strong relationship Tetenal’s relationship with the world leader in inkjet technology has grown year on year in terms of both the working relationship and sales figures.

Tetenal and Epson have established a strong collaboration serving customers across the UK photo and printing market.

The joined completion of the 250th Epson D3000 sale is now the latest milestone in the strong relationship, as Phil McMullin details below.

You are welcome to visit our dedicated Epson Showroom at Tetenal. Our offices are centrally located in Leicester, just off junction 21 on the M1.

Get in touch to arrange a demo.

Phone: 0116 289 3644 Email: marketing@tetenal.uk.com

PHOTOKINA 2018 Phil McMullin, ProGraphic Sales Manager, Epson UK

Without their in-depth knowledge and expertise it wouldn’t have been possible to achieve this landmark number of SureLab D3000 installations.”

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The SureLab D3000 is a compact digital dry lab with improved print quality, perfect for upgrading your business.

EPSON SHOW ROOM

These days Tetenal represent the new breed of Epson reseller whose expertise has developed with changing markets extending their reach into the sign and display market.

TEL: 0116 289 3644

The Epson SureLab D3000 was developed with ease of use in mind.

Virtually all maintenance has been automated, including print head cleaning, paper feed adjustments, head alignments, and more.

The simple, compact design allows for almost any photo printing environment to have a photo lab on-site.

Where can I see the printer in action?

“Tetenal has been a long term Epson partner with deep roots in the traditional photo market making them key to the success of our SureLab printer range.

However, with both feet still firmly in the photographic market their experience has provided Epson with the required stable platform of expertise and support for our SureLab success and we are delighted to achieve the 250th SureLab D3000 installation with Tetenal here in the UK.

EPSON SURELAB-D3000 Setting new levels in photo print performance

Visit the Epson stand at this year’s Photokina exhibition in Cologne, 26th - 29th Sept.

Meet a Tetenal representative at the Epson stand and we’ll talk you through the benefits of the SureLab D3000 and other Epson solutions.

Stand B021 & C020, Hall 02.2

Get in touch to arrange a demonstration of the Epson SureLab D3000

News

No dust on Pentax’s new ‘star’ The Ricoh-owned brand has launched a large aperture prime lens for its K-mount DSLRs in the HD Pentax-D FA* 50mm f/1.4 SDM AW – part of what’s known as the Pentax ‘Star’ series, said to boast the best performance of all lenses for its K-mount cameras.

Available now at an SRP of £1,199.99, the ‘HD’ part of its model name indicates its high grade HD coating and claimed ability to deliver extra sharp, high contrast images, free of flare and ghosting. The optic is also weather resistant and dust proofed for outdoor shooting. www.ricoh-imaging.co.uk

SOLUTIONS TO ‘DYE’ FOR: DNP AT PHOTOKINA Dye sublimation print specialist Dai Nippon Printing – DNP for short – is just one of the names familiar to BPI News readers once again gracing the halls at Photokina 2018 this month, where it can be found in Hall 3.1 on Stand C020/D029. See also our advert opposite for a tease of what the company is planning for this year’s exhibition, where it will be showcasing its on-site dye sub printer line up, a wide range of media formats, plus unveiling some new products. www.dnpphoto.eu

Fujifilm takes show on the road Some dates for your trade diary… the photo stalwart has announced a ‘solutions’ roadshow in the UK this October, the idea being that retailers can pay a visit to discover how Fujifilm’s range of photo imaging solutions and innovations – capitalizing on the trend for personalization of photo products and services – can help your photo business.

On these dates it will be joined

by Swains, authorised distributor on its Independent Photo Retail Partner marketing scheme, who will be displaying frames and albums.

The roadshow will be calling at Exeter on October 2nd, Cheltenham on the 3rd, Harrogate on the 4th, London on the 10th, Livingstone on the 16th and Antrim on the 18th. For further details please see our article on page 21 and advert on page 31 this issue.

Fujifilm Solutions UK Roadshow “Every personalised photo product can be exactly that – totally personal” David Honey Fujifilm

Director of Photo Imaging

Visit us at a roadshow event near you to talk about how Fujifilm’s solutions and innovatio range of ns can help your photo business make the most trend for personalisation of the of photo products and services.

Show Time 2pm til 8pm

2nd October Exeter

Mercure Rougemont

Hotel

10th October London Venue TBC

Equipment demos • Frontier-S Dry Lab • Instant Photo Kiosk • Epson P6000 - 24 inch wide format printing • Epson Workforce Pro - Gift cards • Sawgrass Dye Sub Photo Gifting kit - in-store mugs, T-shirts etc.

Software • Imagine (kiosk, online, mobile) • Digital Passport Photo Related Goods • Wunderbars & Casbar • Square Printing

Fujifilm UK Roadshow

Advert (240x333mm).indd

3rd October Cheltenham Racecourse

Macdonald Houstoun

4th October Harrogate The Majestic

16th October Livingstone Hotel

18th October Antrim Dunadry Hotel

• Adhesive Frame • Shacolla Outlab Service • Phone cases • Cushions Instore merchandisin g & display • Trestles • Shelving Independent Photo Retailer Partner marketing program • Marketing Support • Business Endeavour Program • Inspires Consultancy

Joining us on the roadshows will be Swains, our authorised distributor to our Independent Photo Retail Partner marketing scheme.

• Instax & Instax Share • Traditional frames & albums • New Christmas gift ideas • Christmas camera offers

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23/08/2018 13:50

TEASED ‘TELE’ NOW A REALITY ANSMANN POWERS YOUR SALES The battery specialist is this month offering the trade stock of its clever new wireless Powerbank, ostensibly for the charging of mobile phones (whereby it will charge the phone up to three times before it needs charging itself), but in truth it can be used with most USB enabled devices. The supplier suggests that your customers could wirelessly charge their phone and connect an Ansmann Powerline Vario and charge their camera battery too.

Charging of the Powerbank is via the micro USB cable that comes supplied with it, or via a type C USB cable. It can even be charged wirelessly, as it features a ‘Qi’ (derived from the Chinese word for ‘energy flow’) receiver. Yes it really is that clever. SRP is £34.95. www.ansmann.co.uk

Not content with launching its ‘Z’ mirrorless system camera duo and a trio of compatible lenses this month (see page 8), Nikon has officially unveiled the full frame AF-S Nikkor 500mm f/5.6E PF ED VR super tele lens (pictured) it previously announced was in development for F-format DSLR camera owners (see BPI News July/August).

Nikon claims its adoption of a Phrase Fresnal (PF) lens element has

significantly reduced overall size and weight (1460g) for a more ‘enjoyable’ shooting experience. Of course, anyone buying one of the new Nikon Z series cameras and a FTZ mount adapter will also be able to make use of the lens.

With an SRP of £3,699, sales start on September 13th. www.nikon.co.uk

Tamron’s wide boy fully in frame UK distributor Intro2020 has announced availability of what it is calling the smallest and lightest ultra wide-angle zoom lens in its class (at 90mm in length and weighing 460g).

The Tamron 17-35mm f/2.8-4 Di OSD (model A037) should be pitched at your full frame DSLR owning customers; a Nikon mount option was due at the start of September, with a Canon mount version promised ‘at a later date’. Suitable for landscapes at its widest setting and everyday

photography at the 35mm end of the zoom, the lens claims to feature moisture resistant construction and fluorine coating. Minimum focusing distance is 11 inches, while the lens is also compatible with an optional Tamron ‘Tap-in’ console.

This provides a USB connection in order for users to easily update a lens’ firmware, as well as customise features, including fine adjustments to the AF. SRP is £629.99. www.intro2020.co.uk

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the photo trade, so use it! Send your press releases and news items direct to: info@bpinews.co.uk 12 September 2018 | BPI News

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at s u d n Fi a! n i k o t Pho ,

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BPI News Product Focus

FROM RAGS TO RICHES: DPS PITCHES EPSON’S NEW GARMENT PRINTER

This is not a ‘stitch up’: Kent based DPS Group is offering the Epson SC-F2100 garment/T-shirt printer to its retail trade partners as a means of adding a profitable revenue stream to your business. Book a demo now, advises MD Maneesh Patel…

W

e’re not the rag trade, we’re the photo trade… but just occasionally the latter can learn some lessons from the former. Successor to the best selling direct-to-garment printer on the market – according to Epson – is the same brand’s SureColor F2100. This large format device was demo’d by the DPS Group back at The Photography Show in March this year, reinforcing the impression that the Kent based re-seller is very much the one-stop shop for all your printing needs. That remains the case.

As we witnessed then, the newer, purpose-built Epson SC-F2100 replaces the F2000 model that we originally featured in September 2017, and is likewise a direct-to-garment (‘DTG’) printer that lets you easily and quickly print T-shirts and other fashionable items on a dedicated device. The new machine comes with added features and an improved workflow.

It thereby potentially opens up another profitable revenue stream for your business – not just for the summer, but moreover all year long. Just think of all those hen and stag parties you can be printing garments for, as well as special occasions! The device is not one just for print shops either, but also for photo stores and mini labs proactively looking to add a profitable revenue stream.

DON’T TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT… BOOK A DEMO! DPS Group MD Maneesh Patel is inviting the trade to witness the productivity and profit installing an SC-F2100 could bring to your business by booking a demo. “This is a high-end device for printing on garments ranging from 100%

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At a glance: Epson’s SureColor F2100 garment printer n High quality garment prints at swift production speeds Fabulous fabrics: Not only eye catching but very profitable... printing and displaying T-shirts in your store will attract custom and boost profit. Just talk to the DPS Group for more!

cotton to 50/50 fabric blends; forwardthinking retailers can invest in them to add another revenue stream. Installing a T-shirt printer also enables retailers to take their first steps toward printing their own high quality, bespoke garment designs, thereby enabling, if desired, bespoke fashion labels to be created.”

In short, established printers can add a new, high profit product line, or photo retailers can add a device that separates them from the completion locally; a key concern in the current climate’s battle for every penny. Whatever your business or its level, DTG Solutions can tailor a package to suit, with the first step being, as Maneesh suggests, a demo and a chat at The DPS Group’s showroom.

DESIGNS THAT WILL ‘POP’ – AND DELIVER PROFIT The Epson SureColor F2100’s key features include an operational speed claimed to be twice as swift as the previous generation, thanks to newly developed modes including Light Garment Mode, plus a quick-load platen.

Garment designs are promised to really ‘pop’, thanks to the system’s use of four colour inks plus white ink. White ink is said to be triple filtered before reaching the print head, designed to help reduce the white ink nozzle clogging, thereby ensuring greater reliability. A new integrated self-cleaning system allows the

n Up to twice as fast as the previous generation ‘DTG’ printer n Four colour inks plus white ink for designs that really ‘pop’ n Option to print on 100% cotton garments or 50/50 fabric blends n Epson Garment Creator Software is intuitive and thereby easy to use n Integrated self-cleaning system means less downtime for the printer printer to do its own daily maintenance too, helping to improve productivity by reducing downtime. Attendant Epson Garment Creator Software is described as intuitive and easy to learn, thereby enabling a slick workflow.

In terms of delivering a dynamic looking end result, this printer’s Highlight White achieves brighter white ink output by applying a second coat of white ink, while simultaneously printing colour ink for improved print speeds.

The above adds up to a sure-fire method of boosting your profit margins while making your business more ‘fashionable’ into the bargain… why not also use the printer for producing your own promotional staff T-shirts, for example?

To book a demo of the F2100 contact Dave Harrison via 020 8460 3690 or dharrison@dpsb.co.uk www.thedpsgroup.co.uk www.dpsb.co.uk

Book a demo now! Contact DPS Group’s Dave Harrison on 020 8460 3690 or dharrison@dpsb.co.uk or visit www.dpsb.co.uk 14 September 2018 | BPI News

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BPI News Extra

SHOOT, SCAN & PRINT WITH CANON’S NEW LINE UP

Prior to Photokina, Canon has unveiled a travel zoom camera, a handful of inkjet printers, a pair of scanners, plus announced a licensing hook up. BPI News drills into how retailers should be selling them Pixma TS8250 (below centre) – an allin-one A4 printer with six individual inks, including ‘Photo Blue’, plus a 10.8cm touchscreen. Available from this month, SRP is £199.99. More affordable still at £149.99, is the TS6250 (below right), again an A4 printer which this time features a smaller 7.5cm LCD. If your customers have a tighter budget still, then direct them to the compact yet screen-less MG3650S plus multifunctional TR4550 models, both priced at just £49.99. Apart from the TS9550, all new models are arriving September.

I

n time for September sales, and ahead of any further possible announcements at Photokina later this month, the photo giant has unveiled a host of new products. These include the PowerShot SX740 HS (see above) travel zoom, a camera it is claiming is one of the most compact to offer a 40x optical range (the equivalent of 24-960mm).

Direct your customers to the fact that the pocket sized ‘all-in-one’ also offers up 4K video capture (from which 8 megapixel stills can be derived, if wished), along with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Factor in a CMOS sensor and a DIGIC 8 processor, enabling up to 10fps sequential shooting, plus fiveaxis image stabilisation, and the camera should theoretically give the likes of the Panasonic TZ200 and Leica C-Lux a run for their money. Canon’s travel option comes in a choice of black or silver body and is available now for £349.99 SRP. As well as a portable camera, Canon has a new portable printer – its smallest and lightest such device – in the Canon Zoemini (central image). The boast is that it can deliver 5x7.6cm prints from any mobile phone. Like recent Kodak and prior Polaroid branded devices, it utilises Zero Ink (‘Zink’) technology to

SCAN THESE NEW OFFERINGS

produce prints immediately dry to the touch. Connectivity is via Bluetooth, the device comes in a choice of Rose Gold and White, White and Silver or Black and Slate Grey, and SRP is £119.99 with availability from this month.

A FISTFUL OF PIXMAS The traditional inkjet printer and scanner market likewise hasn’t been forgotten by the brand, with the introduction of the Pixma TS9550 (below left), Canon’s first A3 all-in-one printer. Offering WiFi connectivity, the printer is available in either white or black and arrives in November for an SRP of £249.99.

Sitting just below this is the A4 Canon

Likewise very affordable are the two new sleek-looking dedicated scanners in the CanoScan LiDE 400 (above) and 300 at £69.99 and £49.99 SRP respectively. The 400 unit can scan up to a resolution of 4800x4800 dpi and has a processing speed of just eight seconds for a 300 dpi colour A4 scan. By contrast, the less expensive 300 model offers up to 2400x4800 dpi resolution and can produce the same sample scan in a marginally slower 10 seconds.

Suggesting that its latest kit very much has a family audience in mind, Canon has additionally announced a licensing deal with Japanese brand Sanrio, famous for the character Hello Kitty, but which now also owns the Mr Men and Little Miss series. The deal will provide, says Canon, Pixma printer owners with exclusive Mr Men and Little Miss content, including colouring sheers, wrapping paper, greetings cards and 3D illusion prints. Perfect, then, for those hobbyist photographer customers with little ones at home.

If you’re heading to Cologne at the month’s end, also check out all Canon’s new offerings at Photokina in hall 03.2, stand A011 to C021. www.canon.co.uk

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the photo trade, so use it! Send your press releases and news items direct to: info@bpinews.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | September 2018 15

The Big Interview

EAST MEETS WEST Mid summer saw a new Managing Director installed at Fujifilm UK: Yoshitaka – or ‘Yoshi’ – Nakamura, with responsibility for approximately 340 staff working across the UK and Ireland. A perfect candidate then for our latest ‘Big Interview’ Q&A with leading figures in the photo trade…

A

s BPI News readers will already be aware, Fujifilm’s UK business covers not just consumerfacing photo imaging and printing, digital cameras, optical devices and lenses, but also commercial offset, digital and inkjet printing, along with medical systems and diagnostics.

Newly appointed to oversee all this is new UK MD Yoshitaka ‘Yoshi’ Nakamura, who arrives fresh from its Asia Pacific Photo Imaging division. Yoshi’s career with Fujfilm and photography stretches back to 1992, and the point at which he joined its Tokyo-based Photo Imaging division. Given this, we naturally wanted to discuss differences and simularities between business in the East and West – as well as the global state of the photo imaging market as we presently find it – with a view to giving us the proverbial bigger picture.

BPI News: Can you tell us a bit about how your career to date led to your becoming MD? Yoshitaka Nakamura: I have been with Fujifilm for over 25 years – all of my career – most recently as Managing Director of Fujifilm Malaysia. After graduating from university, I started out in the Photo Imaging division in Tokyo. There, for more than a decade, I developed my skills and knowledge of the Fujifilm business through sales and global marketing roles before moving on to North America in 2005, taking on responsibility for the photo printing solutions business. After six years in the US, I returned to Tokyo to focus on the growth of the Instax and the Asia Pacific Photo Imaging division.

Q: How are you finding the UK? The UK photo market is one of the most advanced in the world. There are some very innovative companies at the forefront of wholesaling and retailing, and there is much we can do to work with these companies to further accelerate their ambitions with our own technical and creative solutions.

Q: Worldwide, the camera and photo printing markets have faced many challenges in recent years – from people printing less, or using a smartphone instead of a dedicated camera. How is Fujifilm continuing to address both potential issues?

We are finding that actually, even though film printing has, of course, diminished quite dramatically, our overall sales of photo paper remain quite constant. It’s true that this is partially because Fujifilm has grown its market share, but it’s also because digital devices are being used in increasing numbers to make prints. We have been very successful in producing kiosk solutions, and now we have several mobile app products like POP Book and Imagine, which consumers can easily use to make photo products, whether remotely or via a kiosk.

Q: What lessons have you learned from the Japanese market that can be applied to the UK? Are there any similarities at all?

Trading styles do vary enormously as you would expect. However, there are similarities, particularly among the new young generation of photographers we see today and their journey into photography.

In Japan and Asia, just like in Europe, Instax and analogue photography has really boomed, and this younger generation have a genuine interest in the production and use of real photo prints. This has been prompted by young people taking their first photos using single-use film cameras and being able to record a physical diary of their life in a journal, attaching Instax or square photo prints. I think we can make more of this in the UK. In a world of social media it’s great to hold on to something

Find Fujifilm at Photokina this year. Head to Hall 4.2, A010 / B019. www.fujifilm.co.uk 16 September 2018 | BPI News

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The Big Interview When it comes to retail, most Japanese retailers consider how to entertain customers in store and attract their curiosity, whether that be in conjunction with a season or big event.”

Left: Fujifilm’s new UK MD Yoshi Nakamura showcases the brand’s flagship medium format mirrorless camera Fujifilm GFX 50S; big in Japan and also in the West

tangible. This market trend of print and accessories can be truly global and will diversify the way people enjoy, and are introduced to, photography.

What are the other similarities? The use of mobile phones as you already mentioned is quite universal, and the issue of how we encourage prints from phones is the same. Product merchandising is also similar: retailers around the world experience the same needs for successful retailing. Choice, value, relevance are all key, and on top of that customer service means everything.

Q: Leading on from that, what can UK retailers learn from how Japanese retailers promote and sell Fujifilm products?

Below: The manufacturer has likewise struck retail gold with its Instax instant print analogue cameras; reflected in this colourful display of an increasingly broad product range at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport

Instax is a really important category for Fujifilm and we are putting a lot of effort into supporting the brand growth worldwide. This means, amongst other things that we want to see Instax being shown to the public in a strong and consistent manner.

When it comes to retail, most Japanese retailers consider how to entertain customers in store and attract their curiosity, whether that be in conjunction with a season or big event. The Wonder Photo shop concept was designed specifically to address this and provide a ‘real life’, enjoyable, hands on experience of photography, as a kind of antidote

to the established way of retailing print.

We wanted to show that it was possible to make photo printing more accessible and appealing to the new generation of consumers who up until now had only a rather boring and sterile experience in a photo shop. By making photo a little bit more of a lifestyle activity, rather than the just output of a camera file, we have sought to increase the enjoyment of consumers as they shop. The results are really very good, with a terrific increase in footfall and continued growth in spend.

Q: Considering your success with both X series and Instax cameras, how important is it to keep a presence in both analogue and digital ‘camps’? It’s something that currently puts you in a unique position among camera manufacturers…

We have a mission in Fujifilm to ‘Preserve the culture of photography’, which means that we want to continue to explore how consumers use photography and to make relevant products for them.

We are committed to film, to instant, and to digital. We continue to expand the X Series range and our flagship GFX medium format system to appeal to a wider audience, from the beginner to the professional. Also, in just the last year we have launched two new Instax SQ10 and SQ6 cameras and a new smartphone Instax printer SP3. These feature the new ‘Square’ format which has huge appeal for our consumers.

Q: Upon becoming MD, you mentioned a desire to take Fujifilm’s presence and impact in the UK and Ireland to ‘the next level’. What did you mean by that?

Besides Photo and Electronic Imaging, which certainly in the UK are very good businesses, we have many other activities.

We have a thriving Medical Imaging and Diagnostic business, and a large scale operation supplying the Graphic and Print markets. Additionally, leveraging the unique capabilities and technological expertise of Fujifilm, we have several other UK operations in Life Sciences and the Specialist Ink industry. I will be looking to make strong synergies in all of the various activities and preparing the company for sustained growth.

Q: Where do you see areas of future business growth and opportunity coming from – for both Fujifilm UK and its trade partners?

Our success will come from relevant products, as mentioned earlier, meaning our trade partners will be able to access a constant stream of existing and new innovations. We operate in markets that have a high degree of resilience, as well as great opportunities for growth. We’ve spoken about instant photography and smartphone printing, which are just two areas to focus on. We will continue to innovate new camera products, as the demands of photographers push us to develop new features.

Q: What do you think the customer perception is of Fujifilm UK right now… and are there any areas that could be improved? If so, how will you address them?

We do have a regular tracking survey of what consumers and customers think about us. Whilst we always think we do a good job, and our philosophy is to put the customer at the heart of everything we do, there is always room for improvement.

There are some technical innovations which we would love to be able to accelerate, and there are improvements to some of our systems and procedures which we want to implement. This takes time, especially to do it properly, but we will always get there in the end!

Q: Photokina is coming up this month.

Will the Fujifilm UK team be attending, and what can we expect from the brand?

Photokina is a really important show, and readers will find the main Fujifilm stand at Photokina in Hall 4, on Floor 2. Photokina is not just hugely important for us, but also for consumers and our trade partners. We will be showcasing products and solutions for both sides of our business – photo and print – and I’m particularly looking forward to showcasing how easy and intuitive we are making it to order photo services directly from a smartphone.

Q: Finally, what message does Fujifilm UK have for BPI News’ readers?

Even though I’m new to the UK market, I know that BPI News is a highly regarded and established publication. In this spirit, I would like to equally celebrate your readers and thank them for being in this wonderful photo industry, along with the photo manufacturers for their continued interest and support. We are aware that we are weak without strong trade partners and dynamic consumers, so I would like everyone to help us ‘Preserve the culture of photography!’.

Find Fujifilm at Photokina this year. Head to Hall 4.2, A010 / B019. www.fujifilm.co.uk @bpi_news

BPI News | September 2018 17

BPI News Extra

PSSST… LEICA UNVEILS WHISPER-QUIET M10-P

In another busy month, Leica reveals a new ‘stealth’ version of the M10 in the quiet shuttered, logo-free M10-P, plus a covetable limited edition in the Q ‘Globe-Trotter’. BPI News reports…

F

ollowing on from the Leica M10, the German camera brand has launched what it’s calling the ‘next innovation’ in its ‘M’ rangefinder series. Unveiling the brand new M10-P, Leica’s UK MD Jason Heward told BPI News: “The letter ‘M’ is one that means a lot to Leica and has done since 1954 and the launch of the M3; it stands for timeless design and an iconic camera.”

As the model name suggests, the manual focus M10-P is very much a sibling to the existing M10. The cameras share the majority of their internal features as well as external looks – indeed Leica confirmed the same materials have been used in its construction – though there are some notable differences.

For example, the newer model is described as the ‘stealthiest’ M camera ever made. Part of this is attributed to the fact that, unlike the regular M10, the new M10-P omits the iconic red Leica logo from its faceplate. It’s also the manufacturer’s first ‘M’ camera it says, to ‘broaden its usability’ via the adoption of a touch screen at the rear (a feature also found on its SL and CL cameras), though said screen is fixed, rather than being angle adjustable. The monitor can be intuitively controlled via a swipe of the finger or a double tap, while users can also ‘pinch in’ to check focusing. When Live View is deployed, users also have access to a spirit level/virtual horizon.

Leica goes globetrotting

The letter ‘M’ is one that means a lot to Leica and has done since 1954; it stands for timeless design and an iconic camera.”

Leica UK MD Jason Heward

Separated at birth: the M10 (on left) is almost identical to the M10-P (on right) in terms of tech spec, save for subtle exterior details and the latter’s touch screen (shown above)

And, while the camera is logo-free at the front, the M10-P features an attractively florid engraving of the brand name in classic script on its top plate, as well as providing a metal hot shoe cover in a matching finish to its bodywork – a further point of difference from the existing M10.

At the launch, Leica reiterated that the M10-P is all about being discreet and subtle, enabling photographers to get in and amongst whatever is happening, leaving them free to observe life as it’s happening – and without a loud shutter sound alerting onlookers to the fact that photos are being taken.

Indeed, the M10-P has been declared by its maker as not only the stealthiest, but also the quietest ‘M’ camera ever made – even quieter than its analogue forebears, and with a shutter sound more silent still than not only most of the competition, but also the standard M10.

So, in summary, the Leica M10-P’s touch function screen and spirit level are

The manufacturer has launched another limited edition release in the Leica Q ‘Globe-Trotter’ edition, wrapped in either navy or light pink leather, featuring the iconic red dot logo on the faceplate and with a limited edition serial number engraved on the top cover. This version of the 24-megapixel camera, limited to just 50 pieces, also arrives in a specially produced carry case, swathed in leather to match the unit in question.

As the name suggests, this release is in collaboration with Hertfordshirebased lifestyle brand GlobeTrotter, known for its handcrafted suitcases and travel accessories.

Camera and case are available now from selected authorised dealers and Leica stores in Mayfair, City of London and Manchester, for £5,400.

In related news, the company has also announced a plethora of firmware updates for its cameras including the Leica M10, Q, CL, TL2 and T/TL. As well as further improvements to existing features, these claim to add a ‘considerable’ number of new camera functions. The firmware updates are available from the Leica site below, where users can either download and install the update themselves, or have it installed via the free update service offered in all Leica stores.

essentially the two major differences between it and the M10, along with the quietness of its shutter (and lack of iconic red badge on the faceplate). Available in a choice of either black or silver finish, sales were due to commence August 21st, the day the camera was officially announced.

While the M10 retails at £5,850, the price tag for the M10-P is £6,500. www.leica-camera.com

BPI News is your mouthpiece to the photo trade, so use it! Send your press releases and news items direct to: info@bpinews.co.uk 18 September 2018 | BPI News

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FUJIFILM’S SOLUTIONS GIVE RETAIL PARTNERS A TASTE OF HONEY

Fujifilm’s Director for Photo Imaging David Honey tells BPI News why he feels the future for photo imaging is truly buoyant; a theory lent credence by the news the manufacturer is embarking on a series of roadshows this October, showcasing its solutions and innovations

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f you don’t spend your life in photo imaging you may be of the opinion that it’s a bit of a legacy business and one in decline – but the truth couldn’t be further from this misconception, suggests David Honey, Fujifilm’s Director for Photo Imaging. In fact, according to David, the future looks buoyant, and he’s keen to share with BPI News readers how he sees the photo business developing over the next few years.

“Let’s start with image capture,” he tells us. “Last December we sold as many Instax cameras in that one month as we did in all of 2015. The rise in popularity of Instant Cameras has been tremendous and Fujifilm’s Instax range is by far the most popular brand.

“We’ve been very busy over the last three or four years developing very strong advertising campaigns and pulling together the elements of the brand so that we can make the most of Instax’s appeal to the target audience. Using a top ranking worldwide ad agency in M&C Saatchi and an international design agency in Beyond, we have been spreading our message to millions of consumers and helping them to ‘Fill the World’ with their unique and authentic pictures. We are continuing this theme in 2018, and are now partnering with US pop singer Taylor Swift to help spread our message even further. Very exciting!

“Instax cameras have to be sold by one of our trade partners, and, as with the advertising work, we’ve had a great opportunity to expand our business with many of the great online

and traditional retailers, developing really strong relationships between our National Account staff and customers.

This bodes very well for the future, and will help us to further expand as we get new models and innovations.”

VIVE LA PHOTO RENAISSANCE! Fujifilm also sells lots of film, David tells us, while single use cameras are also doing very well, due to what he believes are “armies of consumers eager to return to traditional photography,” not just to satisfy pangs of nostalgia but also to fuel their personal creativity. “We call this the ‘photo renaissance,” he enthuses.

“Moving onto image production, we’ve seen our biggest threat becoming our biggest opportunity. There are now countless billions of pictures taken on smartphones. That’s many, many times more than were ever taken with film cameras. Actually, if you count the photos taken just last year on smartphones, it’s actually more than has ever been taken in the entire history of photography. Quite a steep jump!

“Most people would think that smartphones have taken our business away, but in fact, in 2017, 33% of all photo printing activity came from images taken with a smartphone. We’ve long been planning for that and nowadays our product and solutions are geared towards the easy transfer of pictures to kiosks, or to the web, in order for it to be exceptionally simple for people to print.”

David adds that BPI News readers may also be aware of the current trend for personalisation of products and services; it’s a facility that many brands offer to consumers. In a world of ‘me too’ product offering, these brands are looking at ways that their consumers can express their individuality.

“Again, in the photo sector, we’ve been working on this for many years and now we can provide a huge variety of personalised photo products, from mouse mats to mugs, calendars to

cards,” he continues. “Photography is a unique proposition, because every photo is different. This ensures that every personalised photo product can be exactly that – totally personal!”

THE WONDER OF PHOTO

Above: Encouraged by recent sales figures, Fujifilm’s David Honey is optimistic about the future, for not only Fujifilm but its retail partners and the wider photo industry

Regular readers will be well aware of Fujifilm’s recent concept of the Wonder Photo Shop – an idea derived from Japan that encourages printing via making it fun, pure and simple, and demonstrating the wide variety of products that can be personalised via photography.

It also encourages consumers to get a bit more hands on and artisan with their images.

“We have successfully applied this concept to a number of independents, as well as a respected UK photo chain (see BPI News May 2018 – Ed). It’s proving to be very popular, and we are seeing year on year improvements as a result.

Boost your print sales in 2018! Get in touch with Peter direct on 01234 572138 or via photoprintservices_UK@fujifilm.com 20 September 2018 | BPI News

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Fujifilm Advertorial “During the summer we’ve been busy preparing for autumn activity as well as running day to day operations.

Pre-empting the Christmas sales period we will have new content for Instax advertising, a ‘solutions’ nationwide road show featuring all of our photo products and innovations – see green box on this spread – plus preparation and attendance at the popular Photokina exhibition, and of course The Photography Show next year. We will also be working with a well-known global retailer as their chosen partner for on-site, in-store photo printing. This is an incredible win for Fujifilm’s global business because it was coordinated in a large part by the UK team.

“As we are encouraged to do by Tokyo, we have made a number of changes in the business to help align ourselves with these new opportunities and I’ve been amazed by the fantastic spirit and enthusiasm for moving in new and exciting directions.

Just two examples of these changes

Pre-empting the Christmas sales period we will have new content for Instax advertising, a ‘solutions’ nationwide road show featuring all of our photo products and innovations plus preparation and attendance at the popular Photokina exhibition” Fujifilm Director for Photo Imaging David Honey are the increased power of marketing, and a strengthening of our retail and wholesale business development.

“I am extremely proud of my photo colleagues, and as I experienced in the last European Photo Conference, the UK leads the way with many of our activities, including Instax advertising, Wonder Photo, customer development and with the business in general. The Fujifilm UK Photo team managed to generate the biggest level of sales in over seven years. That’s not bad for a business which many people think is in decline!”

As ever, the contact details you need to get in touch and boost the potential of your own business by partnering with Fujifilm are at the bottom of this article.

INNOVATION ACROSS THE NATION: FUJIFILM’S ‘SOLUTIONS’ ROADSHOW (OCT 2ND - 18TH) As David Honey touches on in the main body of this article, Fujifilm is proactively taking to the road this October with its very own ‘solutions roadshow’. Marketing Manager Peter Wigington tells us that dates and venues are already booked, barring an October 10th date for a proposed London venue.

At the time of writing the roadshow (open 2pm to 8pm) was planning on calling at: n Exeter’s Mecure Rougemont Hotel (October 2nd), n Cheltenham Racecourse (Oct 3rd), n The Majestic in Harrogate (Oct 4th), n Edinburgh / Macdonald Houstoun Hotel in Livingston (October 16th),

Right: Plenty of solutions... however you choose to print, Fujifilm will be discussing its many options and products with retailers on next month’s roadshow

n Ireland / Dunadry Hotel in Antrim (October 18th).

To entice visitors, Fujifilm will be running equipment demos of its acclaimed Frontier-S Dry Lab, Imagine Kiosk software, plus new digital passport software. It will also be showcasing 24inch wide format printing on the Epson

Frames

Frame your favourite photos and memories

Holiday Memories Turn your holiday pictures into unique photo memories

Ask in store for details STORE NAME

Ask in store for details STORE NAME

www.yourwebaddress.com

www.yourwebaddress.com

Fujifilm will also be showcasing its independent photo retailer marketing program, which extends to providing business advice and marketing materials, as shown

P6000, the Epson Workforce Pro gift cards, as well as Sawgrass’ photo gifting kit for onsite production of personalised gifts such as mugs and T-shirts.

Fujifilm’s photo related goods, some of which we have covered in previous editions of BPI News, include: Wunderbar and Casbar, square printing, adhesive frames and Shacolla (double sided self adhesive panels that can be used for photo displays).

On top of this it will also be sharing the

Photo Canvas Turn your favourite photos into beautiful canvas prints

Prints direct from your mobile Ask in store for details STORE NAME

Ask in store for details STORE NAME

www.yourwebaddress.com

www.yourwebaddress.com

benefits of its ‘outlab service providers’ that can help retailers offer phone cases and cushions. Merchandising and promotions are more important than ever to the photo retailer, so Fujifilm will also be showing a range of shelving solutions that make it easy for stores of any size to create exciting and inspiring sales displays, as well as showcasing its independent photo retailer marketing program. As regular readers will be aware, this includes marketing support, its Business Endeavour Program, plus on-going business advice from Wendy Gray at Inspires Consultancy.

As noted, Fujifilm will be partnering on its autumn roadshow with distributor Swains, who will be sharing its own frames and albums solutions, many of which link with Fujifilm’s Imagine kiosk. Stay tuned for more!

Boost your print sales in 2018! Get in touch with Peter direct on 01234 572138 or via photoprintservices_UK@fujifilm.com @bpi_news

BPI News | September 2018 21

BPI News Extra

NEW NATIONAL SALES MANAGER AT SIGMA UK

There is a ‘changing of the guard’ at Sigma UK this month. BPI News finds out more about whom the photo trade should be interacting with – and how… while the team (and new product) can be found in Hall 4.2 on Stand B20/C29 at Photokina

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igma Imaging UK has announced that its long-serving National Sales Manager Andrew Morris is retiring from duty, with industry veteran Steve Vigors taking his place at the company.

“We’d like to wish Andrew a well-earned retirement, and welcome Steve to the fold,” says Sigma UK General Manager Graham Armitage. “Of course, a great number of our trade partners will already recognise Steve from the many roles he has held across the industry these past three decades, and we’re very happy that he has now chosen to join us at Sigma.

At the same time Andrew will be sorely missed after many years in the industry – so it’s a bittersweet announcement.”

SO IT’S GOODBYE FROM HIM… Indeed, Andrew’s retirement follows a 45-year career in the industry. He started work with photographic equipment retailer Pelling & Cross in London’s Baker Street in 1973. A year later he joined TWFT (Trans World Trading and Finance) Ltd, selling Japanese manufactured Sunagor lenses and accessories. This led to him moving to CZ Scientific in 1984, where he was responsible for selling East German Zeiss binoculars, lenses and cameras.

Sales of Sigma lenses and Praktica camera began for Andrew in the early nineties – and, from here, it seemed a logical step that he joined Sigma UK itself in 2001. Altogether, Andrew estimates he has been selling Sigma products for more than a quarter of a century, “which is quite some legacy,” notes Graham Armitage.

Andrew adds: “Working for Sigma UK since 2001 has been a privilege and an absolute pleasure. I thank the Sigma UK team for being so supportive and the parent company for producing such high quality products.

It made my job so much easier.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to express my thanks and gratitude to all buyers and staff, past and present, for their support and friendship through the years.”

“We’d like to wish Andrew a well-earned retirement, and welcome Steve to the fold. Of course, a great number of our trade partners will already recognise Steve from the many roles he has held across the industry these past three decades, and we’re very happy that he has now chosen to join us at Sigma.”

Graham Armitage, Sigma UK General Manager

AND IT’S HELLO FROM HIM… Steve Vigors’ current journey through the photographic industry has lasted 35 years, and was born out of a passion that began in the ‘analogue’ days of film. “Over this time I’ve enjoyed gaining experience across the supply, distribution and retail side of the business, which has involved a great variety of imaging products and the forming of many long term relationships with buyers, professionals and amateur photographers,” he says, adding: “I am now really excited and honoured to be joining Sigma Imaging UK and am very much looking forward to meeting new and familiar faces on this next part of my journey.”

Steve’s CV incudes time spent as a sales assistant in photographic retail before progressing to store management

Above: With Andrew Morris (left) retiring, the ‘new boy’ is Steve Vigors (right).

Below: A busy Sigma stand at the previous Photokina

at Lakeside Shopping Centre. Moving to a sales role for Cobra UK and Aico International, many will know him for the time spent as Tamron UK’s Sales Manager for London and the South East from 1993 to 1999, and then Field Sales Manager and Premium Account Manager

All lenses sold via Sigma Imaging UK come with the benefit of a three year limited warranty. www.sigma-imaging-uk.com 22 September 2018 | BPI News

www.bpinews.co.uk

News for Intro2020. Latterly he was National Account Manager for Wex’s B2B arm.

All the updated contact details for Sigma Imaging UK’s key sales staff can be found on this page – so don’t hesitate to get in touch!

Speaking of which, there will be a chance to catch up with the team in person for any members of the trade visiting Photokina this September.

Sigma can be found in Hall 4.2 on Stand B20/C29 and promises that it will have new product to show.

Wanted: photo of Fox Talbot shop Do you have a photo, or photographs, of the Fox Talbot shop that once stood at number 179 on London’s Tottenham Court Road? Gray Levett, owner of the ‘exclusively Nikon’ store Grays of Westminster is seeking pictorial evidence for a new project on camera shops in London, having previously worked at Fox Talbot for a few years himself (letterhead reprinted here in the hope of jogging our readers’ memories).

Anyone with pictures, or any leads to

acquiring such, is directed to please get in touch with Gray on 020 7828 4925 or email: gray@graysofwestminster.co.uk www.graysofwestminster.co.uk

www.sigma-imaging-uk.com

Your key Sigma UK contacts 2018: Steve Vigors, National Sales Manager (covering Greater London, the Home Counties and the South of England) Mobile: 07535 940 958 Email: steve@sigma-imaging-uk.com Ray Fitchett, Regional Sales Manager (Lancashire, Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Rutland, Northamptonshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, West Midlands, Cheshire, Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Wales) Tel/Fax: 0121 311 0567 Mobile: 07973 116 483 Email: sigma@rayfitchett.com Donald Spencer, Agent (Scotland, Northern Ireland, Cumbria, North East England and Channel Isles) Tel: 01506 843510 Fax: 01506 848323 Mobile: 07836 380995 Email: don.spencer@btconnect.com Head office: Graham Armitage, General Manager Tel: 01707 329 999 Fax: 01707 327 822 Email: sales@sigma-imaging-uk.com

@bpi_news

BRICKS & MORTAR STORES STILL CRITICAL TO RETAIL Britain’s high street stores continue to play a critical role in retail, despite job cuts and high profile casualties, claims a new report by e-commerce system specialist Tryzens. And, rather than simply reiterating the belief that there is an ongoing battle between bricks and mortar stores and online retailers, it suggests they are in fact different faces of the same coin – with its research noting that customers still value and engage with stores for the physical experience of seeing, trying and testing products.

Despite recent challenges, there is an opportunity for retailers to come out on top, it adds. Those with physical stores can build rich experiences with their customers by taking advantage of ‘customer touch points’ to create personalised offerings, while engaging with shoppers who are seeking a ‘touch and feel’ experience before purchasing (very true of the camera market). Therefore, retailers who forge a close tie between their online and instore offerings – providing the likes of click and

collect (online engagement used effectively to drive activity within stores), loyalty schemes and common promotions across channels – enable the provision of new personalised services and customer-tailored ‘experiences’ that are consistent across in-store and online.

The challenge is not about the decline of the high street store, but rather their reinvention for a digitally savvy consumer. So, Tryzens believes, the future is healthy if the strategy is right and the retailer or brand is flexible to change. www.tryzens.com

WILKINSON REFLECTS ‘CHANGING FACE OF RETAIL’ Not content with recently transferring its Liverpool store to a new location in the same city, there are couple of new faces at independent retailer Wilkinson Cameras this month. Heading up a new customer service team based at its head office in Preston, which will support its nine stores across the North West, is Sara Penwarden (pictured, left), formerly the manager of its Southport store, where she worked for 20 years.

Joining her on the same team is Kat Arnold (right) who formerly worked for Blackpool Pleasure Beach and is said to be a keen photographer.

Wilkinson Cameras’ MD David Parkinson says: “Great customer service is nothing new to Wilkinson Cameras, as our numerous awards testify. However, the face of retail is changing as the digital world evolves, and our new dedicated customer service team will ensure this level of

service continues across all our digital platforms.

Sara and Kat are also passionate photographers, with years of photographic and retail knowledge.

They are keen to support, advise and problem solve whenever our customers need it.” www.wilkinson.co.uk

BPI News | September 2018 23

BPI News Product Focus

KENRO’S ALBUMS, FRAMES & FLASH SPOTLIGHT DEALER PROFIT The proactive distributor not only has an exciting new mini flashgun for retailers to tempt photographers with, but also a host of albums and frames to boost September sales…

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s switched-on retailers know, there is profit to be made from the sale of photo accessories, which typically offer a far more attractive margin than sales of the cameras they’re compatible with. That’s very much the case with the items available from distributor Kenro, which has launched its own brand Kenro Mini Speedflash. This new product is available in five fits (Canon, Nikon, Sony, Micro Four Thirds and Fujifilm) and comes with a good value, affordable SRP of £119.95 (inclusive of VAT).

Described by Kenro as ‘tiny yet well specified’, at just 11cm high the flashgun (KFL102) boasts a guide number of 32 (ISO100). Its portability extends to the fact that it weighs just 150g, making it the ideal accessory for smaller DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. Small yet versatile, it offers full TTL compatibility as well as manual operation for all fits; multi (stroboscopic) modes for Canon, Nikon, Sony and Micro Four Thirds cameras; plus master and slave functions for Canon and Nikon fits only. What’s more, it comes with the peace of mind of a two-year warranty. Supplied in the box with the Kenro Mini Speedflash are a plastic stand, softbox diffuser, carry case and instruction book.

ALBUMS AND FRAMES Regular BPI News readers will be aware that another way of profiting from Kenro’s products is by stocking and selling its albums and frames. Here it

Above: Small yet mighty... this month Kenro is offering retailers its great value Mini Speedflash, available in Canon, Nikon, Sony, Micro Four Thirds and Fujifilm fits

Below (from L to R): Old World Map, Candy Spots & Stripes, plus leatherette Grafton series albums, next to new additions to Kenro’s classic Avenue frame series

has a solution for every season, every occasion and every budget. A case in point is its Avenue silver plated frame series, to which it has recently added a selection of double and square frames.

With prices from just £10.74 SRP, these can be considered right up any retailer’s own ‘Avenue’. New frame sizes include 5x5-inches (to hold 3x3-inch or 4x4-inch prints), 7x5-inch double frames (to hold two sets of 6x4-inch prints), a 7x7-inch frame to hold a 5x5-inch print, plus a double 8x6-inch frame holding a pair of 7x5-inch prints. These can be ordered individually or in packs by the trade.

Furthermore, Kenro’s Candy Spots and Stripes photo album series, featured previously in BPI News, has proved so popular that it has been expanded to include two new sizes of Minimax album, plus a self-adhesive version of the Spots design. The Minimax album format

provides 50 slip-in pockets each holding two photographs, either 6x4-inches or 7x5-inches depending on the size purchased. The self-adhesive Spots album contains 40 cream-coloured pages, each measuring 26x32.5cm with a protective clear overlay. Prices start from just £7.44 SRP, and all the above are available to the trade as singles or in packs of six.

Also ‘refreshed’ is its Old World Map series – again previously shown in BPI – which now has itself a self-adhesive version. This is priced at £29.04 SRP. Again, each album contains 40 creamcoloured pages measuring 26x32.5cm with a clear plastic overlay. These are likewise available as singles or in packs of six.

The final bit of news for now is that the company has also re-launched its very popular Grafton series of albums in navy blue or classic black. These feature traditional library style spines with gold detail, while the leatherette covers feature a narrow gold border to complete the elegant appeal. Three sizes of slip-in album are available, as well as a self-adhesive option. Each spiral bound self-adhesive album contains 40 white pages approximately 19x27cm in size. These are available to order as singles, or in pack sizes of 12.

As usual with Kenro’s great value products, there is plenty to interest both the photo retailer and its enthusiast photographer customer base. So get in touch with MD Paul Kench and his team now to place orders on 01793 615836 or via sales@kenro.co.uk www.kenro.co.uk

New from Kenro: Mini Speedflash; Avenue frames; plus Candy Spots & Stripes, Old World Map & Grafton series albums 24 September 2018 | BPI News

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BPI News Product Focus

Profit ‘in the bag’ with Hama There’s money to be made from stocking and selling camera bags, as any switched-on retailer will know. Fortunately then, Hama has a fistful of new travel options in its ‘Zambia’ series.

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est known as a supplier of accessories and as a one-stop shop for all your photo minutiae, Hama’s comprehensive range means that there is something for every photographer, at every conceivable price point. For the dealer too there is the welcome opportunity to make a good margin on a sale. A case in point is its new affordable range of Zambia camera bags, very suitable for your customers’ travels with their camera kit, which has just arrived in stock with the supplier.

“Hama UK has long-reaching roots in the photo industry, beginning business with the distribution of photo products all the way back in 1990, so if anyone knows their photo, it’s us,” re-affirms Product Manager Ben Jones. “Our new Zambia bags play on popular features from our previous bestselling ranges, whilst combining these with a contemporary, ultra-portable design that will allow them to fit swiftly into the on-the-go lifestyle of the modern-day consumer.”

BAG YOURSELF A VISIT TO ZAMBIA The attractive and conveniently pouchlike Zambia bag range is suitable for everything from smaller compact system cameras through all-in-ones or bridge cameras, to DSLRs, plus lens. With a range of differing size options to suit, this also makes Hama’s offering the perfect travel accessory for your customers’ camera kit, due to them being snugly compact and lightweight carry solutions.

As we’ve noted they’re affordable with it – making them perfect for retailers to piggyback on a sale of a camera body or lens. Suggested prices at retail, for example, range from £21.99 to just £34.99.

As to which models to select, your customers’ choices start with the holsterstyle Zambia Camera ‘Colt’ Bag in either ‘80’ size (12.5x8.5x12cm at 170g) at £24.99, or size ‘100’ (14x10x14cm at 185g) at £29.99 options. These feature a handy zippered compartment under the cover flap (right) for stashing storage media and other accessories, with a double zipper opening for easy access to the main compartment. Other key features include a detachable shoulder strap and a belt loop, plus a quick grab handle.

“Our new Zambia bags play on popular features from our previous bestselling ranges; combining these with a contemporary, ultra-portable design” Hama Product Manager Ben Jones

FULLY EQUIPPED… AND EASY TO SELL These same features carry over onto the Zambia 90 Photo Equipment Bag (right, middle pic) at just £21.99 SRP, which, in offering snug suitability for a compact system camera or a premium compact with retractable optics, boasts internal dimensions of 7x6.5x13cm and weighs just 150g. Again there is a zippered compartment under the cover for storage media and accessories, a double zipper opening for easy handling, detachable shoulder strap, belt loop and carry handle.

The slightly broader Zambia 80 Photo Equipment Bag meanwhile would prove suitable for housing a consumer level DSLR . This comes with all of the above storage and protective features, while sporting internal dimensions of 12.5x7.5x12.5cm. Weight is just 175g and SRP is £24.99.

Alternatively, take a step up and go for the bigger Zambia 100 Photo Equipment Bag that boasts internal dimensions of 14.5x8x11.5cm – making it suitable for housing a superzoom or

bridge camera – while being still a very lightweight 190g. This model additionally features one adjustable internal divider to allow for the user to organize their gear. SRP for this one is £29.99.

The sixth and final option in Hama’s new Zambia range is the Zambia 110 Photo Equipment Bag (below left), which offers the roomiest option for the transportation of a DSLR, while a separate lens can be stashed in the internal divider section provided. Such features are again in addition to all the usual attributes of the range, such as zippered accessory compartment, detachable shoulder strap, belt loop and quick grab handle. This time around the internal dimensions are 16x9x14cm and the bag weighs a still very manageable 220g.

Compact, lightweight and affordable, it’s obvious to see that the Zambia range of bags from Hama will be an enticing purchase for any camera owner – while providing an easy and profitable sale for any camera retailer.

To take advantage of Hama’s Zambia bag range, get in touch now on 0333 123 4262 or head to the website (URL below) to register to become a trade partner. https://uk.hama.com

Get set for autumn with Hama’s range of Zambia camera bags at great value prices. See also https://uk.hama.com @bpi_news

BPI News | September 2018 25

BOOK NOW FOR OUR PHOTOKINA REVIEW ISSUE COPY DUE BY SEPTEMBER 21ST AT LATEST

Utilise the unique marketing opportunities that BPI News provides, including the likes of our ‘Big Interview’ spreads giving you the chance to get your message across direct and in full!

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Talk to the trade! To avoid disappointment, book your adverts and advertorial features now for our next issue…

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artner with BPI News, the UK’s longest running and best-established photo trade magazine and make your marketing budget work harder in 2018! Available as both a print version posted out to the industry’s key decision makers, plus an online version hosted at bpinews.co.uk and on the ISSUU e-magazine platform, this is your golden opportunity to get your products and services seen!

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wholesalers, we’ll help increase the visibility of your brand beyond the reach of your sales force… getting you in front of decision makers in the UK photo trade and telling them of the margins and profits you can deliver for them.

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CONTACT BPI NEWS NOW to request a handy PDF of our 2018 PRODUCTION PACK containing all the year’s key copy due and publications dates, page sizes and options for advertising. Get in touch via gavin@bpinews.co.uk or call 0208 274 0578.

BPI News Extra

PANASONIC LX100 II: THE SEQUEL THAT’S MORE THAN AN EQUAL

In advance of Photokina, the electronics company has updated its Four Thirds sensor-incorporating premium compact. BPI News attended the London launch

W

ith an introduction that declared Panasonic’s share of the fixed lens camera market has grown from 17% back in 2013-14 to 27% from July 2017 to June 2018 – and that a 32% share for large sensor compacts (those with a sensor above one-inch) currently puts it at number one – the company last month unveiled its latest premium compact in the LX100 II. Going on sale from October 1st at a suggested retail price of £849, the camera is the first of Panasonic’s to use a ‘Mark II’ model number. It is also the company’s first to offer USB charging, so there’s a time-limited pre-order deal that includes a free weatherproofed ‘Goal Zero’ power bank for any of your customers ordering from now until the official on-sale date.

Panasonic’s Barnaby Sykes, Senior Product Manager for Imaging, told us that one of the reasons why the new model maintains the LX100 name is because the original camera has generated “a cult following”. He also suggested that sales figures from the time of the original camera’s launch indicated that the LX100 noticeably drove growth in its market sector.

FEATURE-PACKED PREMIUM COMPACT Key features of the second generation LX100 II include a 17 megapixel Four Thirds sensor that is multi aspect – meaning that users can shoot in a variety of different image ratios, including 4:3, 3:2, 16:9 and 1:1. The camera also boasts a f/1.7 to f/2.8 Leica DC lens, offering an equivalent focal range of 24-75mm.

Surrounding the lens is an aperture ring, plus a customisable lens control ring – to which the likes of exposure compensation can be attributed, for example. Generally the analogue style operation will appeal

A premium compact with many sides... and features (shown with and without clip-on flash). Encourage customers to preorder before the October 1st on-sale date and they can bag a free power bank!

Below: Street smart... the LX100 II is a perfect camera for street photographers, who can make use of the large sensor and bright/fast lens (sample pics taken with camera)

to those photographer customers of yours who love to get ‘hands on’.

As this is a premium bit of kit we also get a 0.38-inch, 2760k-dot eye level viewfinder, plus a 1240K dot LCD that, while it is not angle adjustable, does feature touch screen control. Being a Panasonic we’d expect to see 4K Photo and video features – and naturally we get both here. For 4K Photo there is the ability to shoot a 30fps burst, unlimited 30fps recording, or 60 shots in two seconds – the latter a ‘preburst’ option. New 4K functions include the ability to composite a sequential burst of images into the one frame – a bit like producing a multi exposure.

Also worth noting, says Panasonic, is that while the LX100 II features a flat body design to prevent erroneous activation

of its features, it adds a new improved grip. With Panasonic’s Barney suggesting that “black and white photography is very popular”, the camera additionally offers three different monochrome shooting modes, including one that deliberately adds film-like grain. In total there are 22 different filter options.

As for connectivity, Bluetooth functionality has been added here, plus, as a further time saver, there is the ability to process Raw data in camera. In short, as we have noted, this is one solid-feel, feature packed model, going some way to justifying its premium price tag.

As expected, Panasonic is exhibiting at Photokina later this month where you’ll be able to get hands on with this product and more. The location you need is Hall 03.2, Stand A030 to C051. www.panasonic.co.uk

The new Panasonic LX100 II: 17 megapixel Four Thirds sensor, 24-75mm lens with maximum f/1.7 aperture @bpi_news

BPI News | September 2018 27

Business Advice

THE PERFECT PICTURE: MINIMISING RISK, MAXIMISING RETURN

This month, resident business expert Adam Bernstein shares thoughts on how to keep profits coming in by planning for the unthinkable. Plus we re-cap on our top tips for getting the maximum benefit from attending or exhibiting at a trade show – such as this month’s Photokina…

P

lanning for disasters isn’t much fun, after all, the unthinkable never happens, right? Well sadly, that isn’t always the case and taking time out from the normal pressure of business could, potentially, be the most valuable break you’ll ever take.

Now, while we don’t suffer from earthquakes and tsunamis in the UK, we are not immune from other threats. Cast your mind back to 2005, with the Buncefield oil depot explosion in Hertfordshire and the terrorist attacks in London; the flash floods in Kent last May; and more recently, the TSB customers who found themselves on the receiving end of the bank’s failed systems and weeks of financial disruption.

In December 2015, the Telegraph reported on a bomb – an IED – that led to Preston’s Fishergate Shopping Centre being closed. More recently, Reading’s Oracle Shopping Centre was closed in June 2018 following another scare. What

28 September 2018 | BPI News

would happen to the shops located there if these events had led to an explosion?

You need to plan for disruption, but done correctly, you could put yourself in a position that will strengthen your business in comparison with your rivals who fail to plan ahead. As the City of York notes on its website: “disasters have no boundaries and whether you are a small or large business you may be affected. The main purpose of a business continuity is to ensure that the organisation has a response to major disruptions that threaten its survival.”

UNDERSTAND THE BUSINESS & ASSESS THE RISKS The first step is to understand your business in terms of the potential threats to its normal retail operation. Along with your staff, look at every aspect of the business and think about the people you employ, what you need to operate

and how you serve your customers.

The threats to your business are (potentially) many and while some of them seem improbable, you should consider them all: n Natural disasters – flood or wind damage. n Theft or vandalism – either could prove costly and pose health and safety risks. n Fire – which could physically destroy a business. n Power cut – whereby tills and other equipment can’t operate. n Fuel shortages – which impacts on staff and deliveries. n IT or telecoms system failure – technical issues or malicious activities. n Restricted access to premises – no access to your shop. n Loss or illness of key staff – if staff resign or are incapacitated. n Outbreak of disease or infection – staff too unwell to work.

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Risk management / Photokina tips

Exhibition time Photokina re-opens its doors this month, so take time to plan out your trip, as time is money! Below are our quick tips on making the most of your time at a trade show: n Consider both your personal and commercial goals when planning your attendance. n Seek out show materials and use them to craft an attendance plan and create a list of ‘must see’ and ‘want to see’ stands. n Plot a route and remember comfortable footwear. n Take a pocket full of business cards; it’ll save you repeating your details – and it’ll be legible. n Take a lightweight backpack or ‘man bag’ for items you pick up; it’s more comfortable than holding plastic bags that cut into the hand.

n Crises affecting suppliers – restricted supplies (which the photo trade will have experienced several times, following natural disasters in Japan). n Crises affecting your business’ reputation – poor social media activity leading to public retribution. n Terrorist attack – destroyed premises.

Some of the above may seem improbable, but they have all happened.

DEVELOP YOUR STRATEGY AND PLAN You’ll find that some risks you ignore and others you accept, but those readers in retail could set up a mutual arrangement with a neighbouring shop to help each other out. Alternatively, you could lower all risks and become self-sufficient.

However you approach it, ensure the plan is written in plain English so that all can understand it. Guidance on planning is available via free software called ‘Robust’. https://robust.riscauthority.co.uk/

BUILD IN PROTECTION Contemplate where you can build redundancy into your business without adding too much extra cost. Whilst there’s no point renting a spare building or equipment just in case, knowing where you can rent certain pieces of equipment may save the day.

Equipment – especially anything IT related – can fail. The hard drive in your computer has a ‘mean time before failure’ rating – i.e how long it’s expected to operate before it fails.

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n Inform exhibitors you speak to if your time is tight – they’ll get to the point faster. n Get a view on future developments with well thought out questions. n Use the time to make contacts and follow them up after the show. n After the show, take time to organise the information you’ve collected.

n Consider anything you saw that could work for you and boost your own business.

For the latest on the show itself, visit www.photokina.com

But it may fail sooner. You need to back up your data regularly, at least once a day, and keep the backup offsite.

Communication is critical to business.

This is especially acute if your telephone system is based on VoiP (Internet) rather than a traditional line. Plan to use alternatives. Is there someone with a wireless connection with whom you can agree a reciprocal piggy back arrangement if your broadband fails? Consider a 4G dongle or a mobile phone plan that comes with plenty of data. Maybe have phones on two different networks in case one fails.

Look at scanning and filing documents electronically, rather than filling your premises with reams of paper copies. Fast double-sided automatic scanners will turn paper into PDF files that can be backed up and placed in a searchable archive on your computer. You’ll also be able to store the originals elsewhere at a less expensive location, to further spread the risk of loss.

n Critical Illness Cover, that pays out following the diagnosis of defined serious illness that is terminal or life threatening; n Permanent Health Insurance, that pays an income where the insured can no longer work.

INSURANCE

Draw up a list of emergency contacts that includes key staff, the utilities (water, gas, electricity, telephone and broadband), employment agencies and key suppliers.

Work out how you can divert your calls if you cannot access the building to do so. Remember also details of your accountant, solicitor and the tax / VAT office (with your references). Don’t leave out neighbouring businesses in case they need to be informed. Also ensure that you are still able to contact your customers.

Finally, you need to both test the plan and keep it up to date. Carry out a test without telling anyone that it’s a test.

See where – and if – the plan falls over.

Further reading: The BCI: thebci.org (look for the Good Practice Guide)

Never skip on your insurances and don’t forget to note down the policy details and keep them offsite. Apart from the obvious insurances – premises, stock, vehicles, public and employer’s liability – also look at: n Directors and Officers insurance that covers negligence when running a firm; n Business Interruption insurance that will keep a business alive following a catastrophe; n Keyman insurance, that provides money following the death of a key person to the surviving business partner(s) to keep the business afloat or to buy out the estate of the deceased;

Having good polices and risk assessing threats may help you lower your insurance premiums on the basis that you present a lower risk to the insurer.

Further, everyone will know what to do.

For example, by writing a ‘bad weather policy’, both you and your staff know the effort level that is expected when trying to get into work and the pay/ leave arrangements for when they fail to make it. Do take legal advice, however, before you put your thoughts into policies that are available for all to read.

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BPI News | September 2018 29

News

WHY PHOTOKINA 2018 SHOULD BE ‘MEGA’ With Cologne-based trade show Photokina – still the biggest event of its type in the West – throwing open its doors from September 26th to the 29th, as the exhibition moves from once every two years to a new annual schedule, its organisers have published a list of 10 ‘mega trends’ that will be covered by 2018’s event (and which, in truth, hold a mirror up to the photo industry as it currently stands).

The first trend is, it says, ‘professional quality for everyone’. With even hobby photographers today making increasingly frequent use of high performance professional equipment, it’s never been so easy and affordable to take magnificent photos at a professional level. The second trend is that ‘the future of cameras is mirror-less’, its organisers believing that, a decade after the first mirror-less model, the high tech compacts have now ‘grown up’. Trend number three is instant photography, which, thanks to the likes of Fujifilm Instax and

Polaroid, has lost none of its fascination, while trend four is that intelligent algorithms are now ensuring perfect image results every time, automatically.

New, fantastic compact cameras are ‘trend five’ for Photokina this year.

These include compacts with big sensors, high-end zooms, electronic viewfinders and of course 4K video and Wi-Fi. Trend six focuses on 4K video and the new possibilities it offers – including the ability to pluck a still image from a rapid-fire sequence of 30 or 60 fps – while trend seven is all to do with enjoyment of the printed image. Photokina hopes to answer the question: ‘what do I do with my especially good images?’

Trend eight is ‘high speed quicker than the eye’, with modern system cameras allowing us not only ultra short exposure times of 1/8000th of a second but also especially fast 12 fps bursts. Trend nine is accessories for unique images – namely the latest carbon tripods, flash units, multi functional bags and creative

filter systems – while number 10 is that the square format is on the advance.

Photokina will therefore seek to answer the question ‘why is the square so sexy?’

Turn to our advice feature on page 28 for more details on how to get the best out of the event this year – and be back here next month for our own report. www.photokina.com

TWO HEADS BETTER THAN ONE FOR BENRO

An even more model Citizen Citizen Photo has announced dedicated 4x6-inch media for its compact CX-02 dye sublimation photo printer, a move which it promises also provides consistency in terms of print times. Each box of the new 4x6-inch media contains two ribbons and two paper rolls, which will produce 400 prints per roll (thus providing 800 per box), according to the company.

“Having earned a great reputation in the event, photo booth and retail photo sectors for being a robust machine that produces exceptional print quality, we are really happy to see this dedicated media entering the market,” enthuses Gary Andrews, EMEA Business Manager for Photo printers, Citizen Systems Europe. “It will further improve performance for existing users, and will make for a simpler decision for new customers who are weighing up which printer is best for them and their business.” http://www.citizen-systems.com

30 September 2018 | BPI News

Re-introduced by Benro over the summer are two triple action ball heads in the G2 and G3. The bonus for customers is that they now also come at a lower price.

The heads have a magnesium alloy construction and feature a low profile design said to produce ‘uncompromised’ strength and camera support. Benro adds that they are ideal for photographers using heavier DSLRs with longer lenses, and that their ‘super smooth’ movements make them ideal for sport and wildlife photography. The G2 (now at an SRP of £170, reduced from the previous £230) and G3 (£210, down from £290) heads are further supplied with Arcacompatible quick release plates that

feature a ‘pull and twist’ safety lock. For more info on the range, see the below URL. Retailers wanting stock should contact UK distributor Mac Group. www.benroeu.com

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Fujifilm Solutions UK Roadshow “Every personalised photo product can be exactly that – totally personal” David Honey Fujifilm Director of Photo Imaging

Visit us at a roadshow event near you to talk about how Fujifilm’s range of solutions and innovations can help your photo business make the most of the trend for personalisation of photo products and services.

Show Time 2pm til 8pm

2nd October Exeter

3rd October Cheltenham

4th October Harrogate

Mercure Rougemont Hotel

Racecourse

The Majestic

10th October London

16th October Livingstone

18th October Antrim

Venue TBC

Macdonald Houstoun Hotel

Dunadry Hotel

Equipment demos • Frontier-S Dry Lab • Instant Photo Kiosk • Epson P6000 - 24 inch wide format printing • Epson Workforce Pro - Gift cards • Sawgrass Dye Sub Photo Gifting kit - in-store mugs, T-shirts etc.

Software • Imagine (kiosk, online, mobile) • Digital Passport Photo Related Goods • Wunderbars & Casbar • Square Printing

• Adhesive Frame • Shacolla Outlab Service • Phone cases • Cushions Instore merchandising & display • Trestles • Shelving Independent Photo Retailer Partner marketing program • Marketing Support • Business Endeavour Program • Inspires Consultancy

Joining us on the roadshows will be Swains, our authorised distributor to our Independent Photo Retail Partner marketing scheme.

• • • •

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