issue-123-march-2012

March 2012 - No.123

Many happy returns!

Sign & Digital UK 2012 celebrates its 25th Anniversary

IN THIS ISSUE

SIGN & DIGITAL UK 2012 PREVIEW THE COMPREHENSIVE SHOW GUIDE 180 NOT OUT! WE SALUTE WILLIAM SMITH www.signdirections.co.uk

www.graphicdisplaycommunity.com

www.bsga.co.uk

March 2012

signdirections

What’s in this issue…

p10

p30

p40

p46

Projects - Applications in Action

Supplier Spotlight - 180 not out!

Sign & Digital UK Preview - Many Happy Returns

Printers – Mimaki makes a splash

news 4

Setting the Scene - What’s in this issue of Sign Directions

6

News Briefing - Our regular news round-up

10

Projects - The latest application stories

12

Supplier News - News from around the industry

16

Equipment & Materials - Some of the newest product releases

features Supplier Spotlight

30 180 not out! - William Smith celebrates its 180th Anniversary Digital Directions

Sign Directions Hotline: If you would like to contact any of the companies featured in this issue of Sign Directions, please contact us on Tel: 01623 882398 for full company information, or alternatively, e-mail signdirections@btconnect.com for a response by return.

Coming Next: The next issue of Sign Directions will be the April/May issue, which will include a special feature on signmaking materials and a review of Sign Digital UK 2012.

32 Digital News - The latest digital updates 36 My Way - Worthwhile investment Sign & Digital UK 2012 Preview

40 Many Happy Returns! - An overview of show attractions 44 Who’s Who - A-Z list of exhibitors 46 54 60 65 70 71 72

Product Categories Printers Cutting, Routing & Engraving Materials Sign & Display Systems Software Lighting Miscellaneous

information 24 Tips & Tricks - Fujifilm’s Euromedia Q & A Column 24 Going in - The Rolls Roller does it again

Publisher/Managing Editor Val Hirst Tel: 01623 882398 e-mail: signdirections@btconnect.com Deputy Editor Mike Connolly Tel: 01737 842410 e-mail: themc@btinternet.com Associate Editor Michael Lyons Tel: 01277 650037 e-mail: mike.lyons@mac.com Contributing Editor Mark Godden Tel: 07717 885325 e-mail: mark.godden@me.com Art Editor Hina Mistry Tel: 07773 319465 e-mail: hinamistry@sky.com

Cover Photography Sign UK exhibitors Head Office & Data Base Management Trinity Creative Ltd. Unit 1B Melrose Nurseries Longland Lane, Farnsfield, Newark Nottingham NG22 8HD Tel: 01623 882398 e-mail: signdirections@btconnect.com Annual Subscription Rates: UK £50 $78 €78 Europe £93 $143 €145 Rest of the World: £114 $178 €178 Agents can claim a l0% discount

Contributors Zinnia Cordell Alicia Fairlie

24 Eco Watch - Our regular round-up of green developments 28 The Kindest Cut – The latest cutting, routing & engraving developments 75 Classified - The industry’s marketplace

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written consent of the publishers. Editorial photographs supplied courtesy of the companies they feature. The publishers accept no responsibility for any statement made in signed contributions or those reproduced from any other source, nor for claims made in any advertisement. Sign Directions is available to individuals who qualify within the terms of a controlled circulation

76 Directory - The Who’s Who of the sign industry 78 Last Word - Mark Godden’s traces the demise of Kodak

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March 2012

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Introduction never really fit for purpose, much sooner than they had anticipated. Others may need a little educating as to the greater efficacy of job that uses the most appropriate materials, fixings and installation techniques, in terms of both its aesthetic appeal and long-term durability. This is why the April/May issue of Sign Directions will be examining the whole concept of quality in greater detail, while also illustrating what can happen when corners are cut and, conversely, how the judicious choice of materials can pave the way for further business opportunities. Read Mark’s piece on page 78 and then share your perceptions and experiences of quality and all of the issues surrounding it with me at signdirections@btconnect.com or Tel: 01623 882398.

setting the

scene In this month’s Last Word, Mark Godden examines the whole question of quality, in so far as it relates to the sign industry and, in his own inimitable style, suggests that signmakers would be well advised to put quality right at the top of their business agenda.

And, for what it’s worth, I absolutely agree with him, because quality is remembered long after the price has been forgotten Unfairly, the more you can afford to pay for anything at the outset, the more economical it will eventually turn out to be, which is probably why the very rich will never really understand the frustrations experienced by us lesser mortals while having to grapple with the various deficiencies of a ‘bargain’ buy. In fact, as this harsher economic climate continues to impact on our day-to-day lives, most of us have become so adept at seeking out a bargain that the resulting quality compromises have become commonplace.

It is easy to understand then, why, all too often, signmakers extend this attitude to their business lives and assume that their customers are equally reluctant to spend anything more than they absolutely have to. This costcutting ethos often persuades them to produce a job for the lowest possible price, even when that means sacrificing quality.

But for now it’s time to move on to this issue, which unsurprisingly, is focussing on quality of a different kind – the UK’s premier sign show that celebrates its 25th anniversary at the NEC on 27th-29th March. In keeping with the show’s celebratory theme there will be some special new attractions, including a 25-year timeline highlighting the products and people that have featured at the event during the past quarter of a century, plus a topical new Green Trail, which will showcase all of the latest eco-friendly materials and equipment on display within the hall. Our comprehensive show preview starts on page 40, with an overview of the event, which is followed by an A-Z exhibitor listing on page 44 and information on some of the participating companies on page 46. For your convenience, we have grouped all of the exhibitors showing similar products within specific categories, namely Printers; Cutters, Routers & Engravers; Materials; Sign & Display Systems; Software; Lighting and finally, Miscellaneous, for all of those companies who are showing niche products.

Elsewhere, you’ll find all of our regular news pages, while on pages 30-31 we celebrate another important industry anniversary – William Smith’s 180th birthday!

As this issue is also being distributed from our stand at Sign & Digital UK, I’d like to take this opportunity to welcome new readers and to invite anyone who would like to receive a regular FREE subscription to register at our website: www.signdirections.co.uk. Simply fill in the contact details required and the next and all subsequent issues of the magazine will wing their way to you direct. I’d also like to remind current readers that this is an easy way to update their contact details or to cancel their subscription.

As always, we will have a stand at the show, which we will be sharing with the BSGA and GDPro magazine. Rumour has it we will be serving refreshments, not organised by me, obviously, although that won’t stop me from doing my best to munch my way through my entire bodyweight’s worth of sweets, cakes and chocolate biscuits! So, for the sake of my hips, I implore you to stop by and visit us on Stand P62, where you’ll be guaranteed a very warm welcome!

Val Hirst – Editor Email: signdirections@btconnect.com Twitter: @Valthemaghag Web: www.signdirections.co.uk and www.graphicdisplaycommunity.com

However, many companies can still afford to take the longer view, and would much rather spend more now to ensure the longevity they require, than to spend again later, having to replace a sign or graphic that was

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news

news briefing

And now for the good news

FESPA Brasil launches FESPA is forming a joint venture with the Brazilian event company APS, the organiser of ExpoPrint, the largest digital printing event in Latin America.

The joint venture company's first initiative will be to launch FESPA Brasil alongside ExpoPrint Digital 2013, which takes place in Expo Center Norte, São Paulo, on13th-16th March 2013.

FESPA Brasil will offer visitors a comprehensive showcase of the latest innovations in wide format printing, garment printing and digital signage, while ExpoPrint Digital will continue to provide an overview of transactional printing, direct mail, variable data printing, digital publishing, digital label and packaging.

In addition visitors will be able to enjoy a FESPA Brasil Conference, a FESPA Planet Friendly programme of environmental content, a Brazilian FESPA Hall of Fame, a Brazil Wrap Cup vehicle decoration event and an applications showcase reflecting the most exciting growth applications for the Latin-American market.

FESPA will have a 50 percent

ownership of the show and its share of profits will be deployed as part of its global 'Profit for Purpose' reinvestment programme, to benefit the global FESPA community.

For further information visit: www.fespa.com

Octink celebrates 50 years in business Octink, which has grown from being a small family business into one of the UK’s leading display companies, is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

The company, which specialises in providing innovative and sustainable display solutions for household name businesses, both internationally and within the UK, produces everything from giant advertising hoardings, window displays for famous retailers, branding for high profile events and the interiors and exteriors of marketing suites and pop up shops.

Chief Executive Will Tyler, son of the company’s founder, comments: “Technology and client expectations have totally transformed the world of signs and displays and nowadays, its all about pushing the boundaries and finding imaginative ways to help our clients capture attention and stand out from the crowd.”

The company which was originally known as Allsignsgroup, started out by supplying signage

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to the petroleum industry before developing into the partner of choice for the construction industry. A re-brand in 2009, saw Octink using the image of an octopus to signify intelligent thinking, boldness and adaptability, and helped to reinforce its new direction.

wide variety of services, from concept and design to manufacture and installation and was the first company to introduce a complete recycling service for clients, winning recognition with a place on the prestigious Sunday Times Best Green Companies list for three years running.

With a core client base in the retail, events/exhibitions and construction industries, Octink is now expanding into new sectors and is currently benefiting from the opportunities generated by London 2012.

There has recently been a marked fall in the number of sign companies making a loss, according to new research from market analysts Plimsoll, indicating that signmakers have battened down the hatches and rebuilt their profitability to give themselves the best chance of riding out the current economic turbulence.

margins of around l8 percent as opposed to the average profit margin of around six percent. However, he also cautions that there are still 324 companies making a loss, 212 of which are doing so for the second or even third year running. What’s more, many of these companies have seen their debts rise in the same period.

Accordingly Plimsoll has issued a ‘danger’ rating for 103 companies.

Plimsoll’s David Pattison, the author of the latest report explained: “When we examined profitability in the industry last year, we found millions of pounds worth of profit being wasted, but now the number of companies making a loss has fallen from 383 to 324.”

The new analysis, which reveals the companies that are following the right strategy and those that are heading in the wrong direction, is available to the readers of Sign Directions at a £50 discount. Contact Plimsoll direct on Tel: 01642 626400 and quote reference PR/CS71.

He adds that there are 52 companies that are leading the profitability renaissance, who are realising profit

For further information visit: www.plimsoll.co.uk

Appointments

For further information visit: www.octink.com

Based in Brentford, it provides a

Antalis McNaughton has appointed David Hunter as Managing Director of the UK, Ireland and South Africa Region.

David brings with him solid management experience from many years spent in business-tobusiness wholesale distribution at Wolseley, B&Q and Jewson. He will be based at Antalis McNaughton’s headquarters in Coalville, Leicestershire.

David takes over from the retiring MD, Ian George, who following his appointment in 2007, has successfully brought the business operations of Antalis and James McNaughton together into a unified operation in the UK and Ireland.

UK Point of Sale has appointed a new Sales Manager, Helen Stott, as part of its ongoing commitment to provide its customers with unrivalled service.

Helen, who previously worked for a nationwide school-wear manufacturer, has 12 years experience and a proven track record of success in both the retail and trade supplies sectors.

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news

news briefing

The European Sponsorship Association (ESA) has turned to venue and event branding specialist Icon to deliver one of the key components of its new professional qualification, The ESA Diploma.

This much-awaited Diploma will be the first professional qualification specifically designed for the sponsorship industry and is aimed primarily at those already working in the industry, although graduates will also be able to apply.

Commenting on his involvement, Andrew Hodson, Sales & Marketing Director at Icon, said; "A qualification of this type is a welcome development for the industry as sponsorship is now an integral part of business marketing activity and stakeholders demand and expect professionalism in all areas of its execution. By sharing some of the knowledge and experience we have gained I hope we will be able to strengthen this sector and help it gain the recognition that it deserves in the

wider economy. " "The intention of the Diploma is for the industry to train itself by capturing the vast depth of knowledge and experience that plentifully exists and by actively using this expertise to contribute towards the syllabus and the passing-on of knowledge," commented Karen Earl, ESA Chairman.

Andrew has over 30 years experience working within the branding and signage industry. During his time with Icon he has been instrumental in developing the company's extensive range of services and expertise and this has led to it becoming one of the leading providers of signage solutions for many of the top international sporting occasions and, more recently, for wider cultural and experiential events, both within the UK and overseas.

For more information about the new diploma please visit www.sponsorship.org For further information on Icon visit: www.iconevents.com

showtime DIARY DATES FOR 2012

Icon supports new industry diploma

Sign & Digital UK 2012 27th-29th March NEC, Birmingham Organiser: Faversham House Group Tel: 0208 651 7100 www.signuk.com Drupa 2012 3rd –16th May Messe Dusseldorf, Germany Organiser: Drupa Tel: +49 (0)211 4560 e-mail: standbau@messe-dusseldorf www.drupa.com Marketing Week Live 2012 27th-28th June Grand Hall, Olympia, London Organiser: Centaur e-mail: marketing@marketingweeklive.co.uk www.marketingweeklive.co.uk Digital Print UK 18th- 20th September NEC, Birmingham Organiser: Faversham House Group Tel: 0208 651 7100 ext. 23 e-mail: chris.rushton@fav-house.com wwwdigitalprintuk.net EcoPrint 26th-27th September The Station, Potsdamer Platz, Berlin Organiser: FM Brooks Tel: 01372 370821 e-mail: katharina-thies@mackbrooks.com www.ecoprintshow.com If you would like your event to feature on this page, please send full information via e-mail to Val Hirst at signdirections@btconnect.com

BSGA Badge gets trademark protection Because some businesses have been claiming membership of the BSGA (British Sign and Graphics Association) without actually having been approved and without paying the required fees, the BSGA has now formally registered its logo as a trademark.

David Catanach, Director of the BSGA explained: “The registration,

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which was completed in February, gives us real teeth in terms of being able to stop companies that are not members from passing themselves off as members. Use of the badge, without approval, is now actionable and we have every intention of enforcing the rules and seeking legal redress and costs for any misuse”.

He continued: “We are working hard to build the badge to be the symbol of a quality sign business. All members are vetted, have signed up to our Code of Practice and

Obligations of Membership and are subject to our Dispute Resolution services.

“Use of the badge adds credibility to a sign business and it is, therefore, essential that we protect it from dishonest use. The trademark registration is a major step in enabling us to do this.”

For further information visit: www.bsga.co.uk

new projects

Fotomuseum Winterthur | BT Openreach | Green Bower

new

projects

To create maximum visibility for the optical fibre installation programme and to build brand impact, Openreach transformed its existing fleet of vehicles into high profile, large-format mobile advertisements. Creative marketing agency Westhill Communications was commissioned to create striking and colour-infused artwork that would capture the public’s attention, with Stewart Signs, BT’s livery contractor, being commissioned to carry out the print and application of the vehicle liveries For such a high-profile project, Stewart Signs was mindful of how important the consistent and problem-free performance of the

Zurich’s Fotomuseum Winterthur was tasked with the job of hosting the first major photographic and video exhibition of contemporary Chinese artist Ai Weiwei’s work, which is now displayed across the museum’s entire wall space.

The job of printing the exhibits fell to the Zurich-based print service provider, The Image Factory, who used Sihl Direct UK’s Wallpaper Persomural in combination with the Epson Stylus Pro 9900 and 11880 printers.

Ai Weiwei is an architect, conceptual artist, sculptor, photographer, blogger, twitterer, interview artist and political activist who deliberately questions social relationships in China by means of photographic documentation. This first major exhibition and book project dedicated to his photographic and video work, sheds light on the diversity, complexity and interlaced character of Ai Weiwei‘s work, with hundreds of photographs, blogs and explanatory essays. Ai’s work is visually striking, but needed to be printed on the right material.

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As the campaign to connect around two thirds of the UK to super-fast broadband services by the end of 2014 gathers momentum, the Openreach access network division of BT has used an eye-catching body-wrap on its extensive fleet of vehicles.

Sihl Direct UK’s Persomural170 matt 3260 wallpaper was selected for its attractive structure, good dimensional stability of the fleece material, in both a dry and wet state, and ease of bonding and handling, However, its most important attribute is that it offers the best printing results, which is of primary importance when printing images on such a huge scale. Furthermore, the substrate’s fleece base makes it possible to reuse the prints. By using the adhesive supplement Tylose (methyl cellulose), the paper can be moistened and removed after use and then remounted in other locations, as the dimension of the material remains unchanged and the printed image is as vibrant as ever.

This huge benefit was demonstrated earlier this year when the exhibition successfully moved to the Kunsthaus Graz Museum in Austria. Ai Weiwei’s work is currently on display at the Jeu de Paume in Paris until 29th April 2012.

For further information visit: www.sihldirect.co.uk and www.etterimage.com

The Sign Box and Pembrokeshire based BMW Mini Dealer, Green Bower are no strangers to each other. Pete Baker and his Sign Box team have been turning heads locally and delighting Green Bower’s Mini customers with highly individual personalised Mini wraps for a number of years and the demand continues.

Pete has a meticulous approach to quality that’s a result of his earlier

vehicle graphics would be. Any failure, such as film shrinkage, fading, cracking, wrinkling or bubbling, would seriously undermine the roll out programme and prove costly to remedy. Competitive wrapping films were considered, but 3M’s Scotchprint Graphic Film IJ380 film was chosen specifically because it enabled full vehicle wrapping, eliminated lifting of the material due to excess stress and ensured lasting adhesion within the deep recesses and corrugations found on many commercial vehicles.

The 3M film features a specially engineered pressure-activated adhesive which is unique to 3M Controltac films and which facilitates precise graphic positioning during the application process. It also imparts an excellent concealing power that enables visually stunning graphics to be achieved with no show through. During application, the film requires no curing time, thus minimising vehicle downtime and

career in engineering. Before wrapping a vehicle, The Sign Box team removes all body mounted trim and components so that no part of the applied wrap has to be ‘cut in’ leaving raw vinyl edges.

After meticulous surface preparation, and once wrapped, the trim and component parts are replaced, leaving only an immaculate finish befitting the vehicles’ pedigrees, and Pete’s own exacting standards and quality practices.

The Mini is a charismatic vehicle that succeeds in being thoroughly modern and yet powerfully evocative of the classic Mini from which it gets its name. It’s a fashionable vehicle too, and is available with a long list of options, making it as individual as

can easily be removed using heat, without leaving any adhesive residue.

The finished graphics are backed by the 3M Scotchprint Premium Fleet Warranty that is awarded only to films that have passed a stringent matched component system (evaluation and which

the people who buy it and now, that individuality can be taken a stage further as The Sign Box team has designed, manufactured and installed a display to promote the sale and fitting of a range of standard, and customised roof wraps expressly designed for the Mini. The display is fabricated using scaled Foamex panels, each individually wrapped in Metamark MD5, printed with EcoSolvent ink on the company’s Roland printer.

Mini customers who elect to have one of the standard designs, or a customised version, fitted to their vehicle, receive the finished job expertly printed and applied to the car in Metamark MD7. MDClass media from Metamark, which displays good colour fidelity across ranges and the

have been used by a 3M Scotchprint Graphic Authorised Manufacturer employing 3Mapproved printing technologies.

For further information, visit www.3M.co.uk/graphic solutions and www.stewartsigns.co.uk

finished article is indistinguishable from the POS display’s version.

Extending a point of sale display into a car dealer’s premises is a novel way to increase demand and one that’s working for Pete Baker and The Sign Box. Underpinned by a ‘quality foremost’ attitude to business, the right media, the right application techniques and the right service to the customer, The Sign Box produces output that’s actually different to that of the competition that surrounds it, because as Pete Baker says: “If you’re going to differentiate your business, it had better be positively!”

For further information visit: www.arken-pop.com

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news

news briefing Supplier News

New factory for Applelec Applelec has recently opened a new 8,000 sq.ft. factory in Leeds, a move that was precipitated by the growth in demand for its LED Light Sheet product, its new Totem modular freestanding sign range and its luxury illuminated letters.

Ian Drinkwater, Applelec’s Managing Director explained: Last year was our most successful year to date and the new factory provides us with the extra manufacturing space we need as demand for key products, such as Light Sheet, continues, alongside the sign manufacturing services we offer exclusively to the trade.”

Now fully operational, the factory has

or aluminium.

a staff of l0, who, together with ‘Delilah’, Applelec’s automated return shaper, provide customers with a wide range of different letters crafted from metals such as, polished, brushed and de-scaled stainless steel

The Leeds factory will be further complemented by the development of Applelec’s Bradford manufacturing space, which will include the expansion of its LED clean assembly facility and a new showroom.

For further information visit: www.applelecsign.co.uk

Perspex branches out

Spandex assembles new Board

John Summerside

Following its acquisition by Gilde Buy Out Partners and Spandex management from former owner Gerber Scientific, Inc. last August, Spandex has now assembled a new Board of Directors to support the established management team.

The new board comprises Directors Wim Noorlander (Chairman) and John Summerside, Spandex CEO Rodney W Larson and two representatives of Gilde Buy Out Partners.

Wim Noorlander, who previously held the position of CEO at Stokvis Tape Group BV, a leading independent adhesive tapes specialist, is a member of the supervisory board of Den Braven

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Wim Noorlander

Rod Larson

Sealants BV, and is also active in other businesses via his own investment company.

John Summerside is a well-recognised figure in the sign and display sector, having previously served in various senior roles with Robert Horne Group, where he launched the company’s adhesive and display products business in 1986. He subsequently held director level positions with Buhrmann and PaperlinX, retiring in 2007. Since then, John has served several companies in a consultative capacity.

He is a former president of the UK’s Digital and Screen Printers’ Association, from which he holds a gold medal of honour, and a Director of the European

Semi-finished plastics supplier Perspex Distribution has expanded its operation with the opening of a new branch in Weybridge, Surrey, which will provide next day, cut-to-size, thermoplastic sheet to customers in the south.

Pressure Sensitive Association.

Manufacturers’

Rod Larson was appointed Senior Vice President of Gerber Scientific Inc. and President of Spandex in July 2007. Prior to this, he was President of Gerber Coburn.

The newly-established Board will work closely with the long-serving Spandex senior management team, which includes eleven highly experienced senior managers who are responsible for strategic and operational execution.

For further information visit: www.spandex.com.

Keith Piggott, Managing Director of Perspex Distribution commented: “The new branch will carry the same large stock holding as our established branches in Chelmsford, Tamworth and Blackburn, with cutto-size facilities further improving our service and speed of delivery.”

Perspex Distribution supplies a wide variety of thermoplastic sheet including Perspex acrylic sheet, extruded acrylic, Bencore composite, Polycarbonate, APET and PETG, Alupanel Aluminium Composite, Foamed PVC, Rigid PVC, Polystyrene, Rod and Tube and adhesives, to a nationwide range of stockists, fabricators, designers and printers.

For further information visit: www.perspex.co.uk

news

news briefing Supplier News

More Roland winners Whilst in Japan, the Scottish company, which entered a highly innovative car wrap, will also attend Roland’s special 30th anniversary event and compete against 13 other Regional Award winners for the worldwide grand prize, a Roland machine of its choice.

Roland has also announced that Simon Harrison and International Greetings UK have both received

Simon Harrison’s jewellery

The Vinyl Cut’s winning entry

Honourable Mentions for their highly creative and well executed entries. Each company has been presented with an Apple iPad2, complete with Roland RH200S headphones.

A gallery of all winning entries worldwide can be viewed online www.rolandcreative at awards.com

International Greetings’ Crackers

The UK sign and graphics company, The Vinyl Cut, has been named as a Regional Award winner of the Roland Creative Awards international design competition and will now travel to Japan to enjoy the sightseeing trip of a lifetime.

A cut above the rest

Winning the wrap up 3M has announced the winner of its 3M Commercial Graphics Wrap and Win with NASCAR campaign.

Managing Prodger, Martin Director and Ian Richards, Branch Manager of Signs Express in Reading enjoyed an all expensespaid four-day trip to Florida to see the world’s largest motor sport event.

The winning deal involved use of 3M Commercial Graphics’ primary 3M Controltac Graphic Film IJ380 and was sold by Alison Roberts of Spandex.

The trip included return flights from London, car hire for the duration of the visit, free accommodation at Daytona Beach and tickets to the world’s largest NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Racing) motor sport event.

For the 3M-sponsored event, both Martin and Ian had free VIP access and the chance to meet 3M’s Roush Fenway motor sports team and its 3Mcontracted driver Greg Biffle.

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NASCAR, which is the most viewed professional sport in terms of television ratings in the U.S with its races being broadcast in more than 150 countries, has been sponsored by 3M’s Commercial Graphics Division for more than 10 years and 3M has its own NASCAR Sprint Cup team. However, its involvement extends beyond just sponsorship, since the majority of the cars involved feature a 3M logo displayed on the front wing, indicating use of 3M Controltac Graphic Film Series IJ180, which, like the flagship 3M Controltac Graphic Film Series IJ380, is a preferred product for vehicle wrapping due to its ultraconformability and reliability under the most demanding conditions, ease and speed of application and expert finish, core characteristics that were fully tested at the NASCAR event.

For further information visit: www.3M.co.uk

Robert Horne has recently installed a Cauhe GH 366 Guillotine, as well as a CPL 330 Plate Lift at its in-house conversion facility in Northampton, bringing the total number of conversion machines, including four large format sheeting machines on site, to 20

Managing Director of Signs Express Reading, Martin Podger (left) and Centre Manager Ian Richards receiving the main prize from Alison Roberts, Account Manager at Spandex.

The Cauhe Guillotine has a vast cutting width of 3666 mm, making it large enough to cut materials to the sizes required for large format printing. Both pieces of kit have delivered significant efficiency improvements and increased the company’s ability to process a wider range of materials and sizes.

For further information visit: www.roberthorne.co.uk

news

news briefing Equipment & Material

Do it all with MAGMedia

Creativity on a roll Three new wallpaper products from specialist coated media manufacturer SIHL are now available from Amari Digital Supplies. They have similar as well as specific characteristics, are 100 percent PVC free and can be printed using a choice of solvent, eco-solvent, latex and aqueousdigital large-format based printers.

wide colour gamut and fast-drying capabilities, resistance to scratching and the ingress of moisture, high opacity to enable cracks and other imperfections in the substrate surface to be effectively covered and an ability to be easily and purposely removed as required. Wallpaper Persomural 3260 is identical to 3259 but has been developed specifically coated for aqueous printers

WallpaperSol Persomural 3259 is a premium-grade 195gsm non-woven product featuring a stable satin finish.

Due to its particular properties, the paper can be applied using a standard glue and without the need for a protective layer. Key benefits include

WallpaperSol Persomural 3258, for which ADS has exclusive distribution rights, shares the same characteristics and benefits but is a pre-pasted product that uses a dry adhesive activated with water for the application process.

CWE Solutions has launched MAGMedia, a cost-effective and flexible range of magnetic material, which can be instantly installed and peeled away in seconds, while the printed message can easily be altered with the addition of another layer, thus making it ideal for promoting lastminute price changes or special offers.

All of the products are fire rated in accordance with ISO EN 13501.

For further information visit: www.amaridigitalsupplies.com

A 210gsm paper that dries quickly and is suitable for framing, backlit displays and retail use, MD-PP210 can also be used to good effect in

Sign Directions March 2012 | 16

art applications too. With its semi gloss finish, the new media produces that characteristic MDClass ‘colour pop’ much loved by users of Metamark digital media, but it is ideally suited to applications in directionally lit situations, such as exhibitions, thanks to its muted surface.

The new product’s bright-white print surface is receptive to

Suitable for use in a wide variety of applications, ranging from retail displays and billboards to train station signs and vehicle advertising, MAGmedia is thin yet strong, making it

easy to manipulate and to produce striking, yet cost-effective signs and graphics.

For further information and to

view a video that demonstrates just how easy the material is to visit: adjust, and install www.cwesolutions.co.uk/ magmedia

Solving the Corex conundrum

Mid class quality – great value Posters are one of the easiest cross-selling opportunities to access and now, thanks to Metamark’s new MD-PP210 Semi Gloss Premium Poster Paper, they are as easy to produce as they are to sell.

MAGmedia, is weather resistant making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, can be used in conjunction with digital printing technology and can be cut to size using nothing more sophisticated than standard scissors.

solvent, eco-solvent, UV and latex inks and produces sensational results with moderate ink loading.

Finished prints exhibit good strength and dimensional stability and are near photo-quality in terms of print resolution and fidelity.

to experience the product’s handing image superior characteristics for themselves. To obtain a free sample, which will be despatched the same day as it is requested, simply contact the at desk sales Metamark sales@metamark.co.uk

Metamark is making sample rolls of MD-PP210 available to sign and print companies who would like

For further information visit: www.metamark.co.uk

The new EB808 Corex Bonding Tape range from Eurobond Adhesives has, as its name suggests, been specially designed to overcome the challenges involved in bonding Corex.

Although Corex is widely used by both signmakers and digital print companies, who appreciate its robust construction, light weight and competitive price, it is notoriously difficult to bond two sheets of Corex together, or, indeed, to bond Corex to any other substrate. Existing glues are very stringy and difficult to work with and are often quite expensive to use,

while plastic rivets can be fiddly and cause tearing and failure around the rivet site.

However, the new Corex Bonding Tape combines very high strength and excellent flexibility. It is very clean and easy to use and is available in 50m length rolls and a choice of 19mm or 25mm widths. There are also two colour options: EB808 Black or EB810 White.

For further information contact Eurobond direct on Tel: 01795 visit: or 427888 www.eurobond.co.uk

Sign Directions March 2012 | 17

news briefing Equipment & Material

news

Even more creative effects Providing more creative sign and graphic possibilities, the 3M Fasara range of decorative films is now available in 54 different patterns, including gradation, stripe, border, prism, fabric, frost and matte. The films represent a fraction of the cost of etched or sandblasted glass and can be used liberally in a wide range of applications in the retail, leisure and commercial sectors.

These tough and dimensionally stable films have a special application in providing personal privacy by obscuring the view through interior and exterior glass windows and partitions, as well as adding decorative effects to these and other glass surfaces, borders and

illuminated displays. Using a pressure-sensitive adhesive, the films allow for wet or dry application and are easily installed on-site with little or no business downtime. They can also be easily removed and reapplied as brands or designs change over time. The low-gloss surface of the films reduces glare and their ability to block up to 90 percent of UV light fabrics. on fade reduces Furthermore, the rigid and tough

construction of the films enhances personal safety in the event of flying glass as a result of breakage.

3M Fasara decorative films are warranted for five years and are available on five-day delivery following placement of order.

For further information visit: www.3M.co.uk/graphicsolutions

Spring promotions More sales, with eye appeal lower prices With spring nearly here, UK Point of Sale is helping retailers endorse their latest seasonal products and offers through its wide range of showcard stands.

Featuring an elegant and the design, transparent showcard stand’s frame and Tpiece are crafted from virtually unbreakable plastic and they also feature an amendable aluminium tube, with a frame size varying from A5 to A3.

Available in a variety of colours, they are an essential part of

a retailers’ point of sale kit, and are ideal for promoting in-store demonstrations and offers.

The stands are adjustable in height, enabling products to be showcased around them, and are thus ideal for promoting impulse purchases around stores’ entrances and exits. In addition, the showcard stands are ideal for endorsing seasonally focused products, ranging from those targeted at DIY enthusiasts and gardeners, to Mothers’ Day and Easter promotions.

For further information visit: www.ukpos.com

Sign Directions March 2012 | 18

Following a huge increase in the sales of Graphtec’s flagship FC8000 and budgetpriced CE5000 plotter/cutters and currency fluctuations with the Japanese Yen, the company has introduced a new pricing structure that will effectively reduce the cost of some of its key products by as much as 30 percent.

These reduced prices, which became effective on 1st February, will remain in force for the foreseeable future. Typical new pricing starts at £850 (plus VAT) for the CE5000 and £2,795

(plus VAT) for the higher FC8000 specification machines. These are arguably the lowest prices available within the respective classes for these machines and make entry into the lucrative media cutting sector that much easier and more cost-effective for both entry-level and established end user companies who wish to capitalise on the increased business opportunities now available.

For further information, visit www.graphtecgb.co.uk

Sign Directions March 2012 | 19

news

news briefing Equipment & Material

The best gets better Metamark’s MD5 vinyl is widely regarded to be one of the most technically advanced of all selfadhesive digital media, a fact reflected by its use in a number of high profile applications across the globe.

Its reputation rests on its consistency within roll lengths and across batches, its appetite for ink, its resolution holding abilities and its enduring quality, plus the fact that it can be successfully used in conjunction with all modern ink technologies, including solvent, ecosolvent, latex and UV. Now, Metamark has further enhanced the efficacy of MD5 with the

introduction of Metamark MD5A, which builds on the technical leadership and quality foundations for which MD5 is admired, while also adding the benefits of Metamark’s METAScape adhesive system, which according to both Metamark, and those who’ve tried the new media, is a winning combination.

The MetaScape adhesive system features micro-channels that give air a route out from under the printed graphic during its application, a feature that considerably speeds up the application process, especially on large expanses of flat substrates, as air entrapment is less likely and is easier for applicators to deal with. The applied results are said to be

those from indistinguishable achieved with Metamark MD5.

Metamark claims that as its products are finding applications beyond the markets traditionally served by established self-adhesive digital media, for example interior decoration, substrate and application conditions are markedly different to those routinely found, in say, the field of vehicle livery. The new MD5A handles these application subtleties and further improves the experience of using the product for all involved in its use.

Metamark MD5A delivers MD-Class excellence in print to a wider and equally discriminating audience,

resulting in productivity benefits, while also helping to maintain application quality in a larger range of application types.

Since appreciating the difference is something that is very much a handson exercise, Metamark will send a free sample roll of MD5A to companies who’d like to explore the benefits of MD-Class media. To request a sample, simply e-mail: sales@metamark.co.uk.

For further information visit: www.metamark.co.uk

Art without tears Sihl Direct UK has launched Clara Beneficial Canvas, an for canvas inexpensive beginners, which is aimed at the art reproduction market the of all has and characteristics required to provide framed art and photographic prints.

under tension with an angle of up to 90 degrees.

matt Canvas, is Sihl’s price competitive alternative to its wide range of other canvas products.

For further information visit: www.sihl-direct.co.uk

The Clara Beneficial white 350

A 1:1 structured blended fabric, comprising 78 percent cotton and 22 percent polyester, it is available in one 12m length by six different widths, 610mm, 914mm, 1067mm, 1118mm, 1270mm and 1524mm.

Clara Canvas is suitable for use with all standard printers using water-based inks and can also be used in conjunction with latex inks. Pictures can be stretched over canvas frames either manually or automatically, with virtually no cracks occurring

Sign Directions March 2012 | 20

Sign Directions March 2012 | 21

news briefing Equipment & Material

news

Banners made easy After a full two years of planning, product and sourcing development, Pyramid Display materials has launched Simply Banner, a full range of banner substrates covering all the major applications and a few new ones too.

number of new grades that have ultra smooth finishes, which when printed hold excellent fine detail, especially when viewed at close quarters. For example, Simply Lightbox, which is a backlit film with no scrim or weave in its make up, is ideal for use in backlit applications.

At the same time, it has also introduced a new brochure designed to take the mystery out of banner media and to simplify the material selection process. The brochure includes a sample of each grade of material, together with a detailed explanation of how the banner is made up, plus details on denier, weave and yarn tenacity, along with suggestions as to applications.

In addition, Pyramid is now stocking and distributing both 3.2 and 5 metre wide products, thus enabling banner production using super wide machines.

The Simply Banner range includes a

The new Simply Banner range complements Pyramid’s existing range of MACtac, Foamalite, Correx, Akyprint and POLYLINEPro products For further information visit: www.pyramiddisplay.co.uk

Bright and light

Sign Directions March 2012 | 22

Antalis McNaughton has expanded its range of foam centred products with the addition of KAPAbright, from 3A Composites.

and presentation mounting, advertising signs and large format prints, and POP displays, it is available in a variety of callipers and sheets per box,

KAPAbright is a lightweight a with board foam polyurethane foam core and bright white paper surface, which offers excellent flatness and dimensional stability. Ideal for use in a wide range of different sign and display applications, such as modelling

It is suitable for use in conjunction with both screen printing digital and technologies and will feature on the Antalis McNaughton stand at Sign & Digital UK. For further information visit: www.antalis.co.uk

information

Tips and Tricks Q A customer of ours uses the area behind their windows for storage and would like to source a material that limits the visibility through the glass, but also gives passers by an interesting image to view from the outside, which will encourage them to come in.

They would also like the flexibility to change the graphics every few months or so and therefore it cannot be a permanent fixture. Can you help?

Lymington Signs, Devon

A

There are a number of different materials that can be used to limit the view

In its regular series of advice columns, Fujifilm’s Euromedia experts advise on how to achieve vibrant window graphics that only allow one-way visibility.

into your customer’s store front, such as block out fabrics, which do exactly that. These polyester fabrics are suitable for use with a number of display systems and have a coating on the reverse that provides 100 percent opacity. However, as the area behind the window will have limited access and space to accommodate a display solution, we would suggest you use a material that can be applied on the outside of the window. These materials are readily available, but since a lot of window graphics are designed to be applied to the inside of the glass, your choice might be more limited as a result.

The main things to consider are whether the media is able to stick

effectively to glass and will block out the light even when heavily lit from behind. Another consideration is that the material is resilient enough to withstand outdoor weather conditions so that the graphics do not peel or fade in time. Lastly if the graphics are to be changed on a regular basis, then what you need to look for is a semi permanent, removable, residue-free vinyl.

One such product that meets these criteria is Euromedia’s OneWayVision. This comprises a black reverse side that enables oneway visibility and has a 40:60 perforation, which produces highcontrast, brilliant colour printed graphics when mounted onto transparent surfaces. It is also

suitable for both solvent and UV applications and can be removed (residue-free) after up to three months.

Finally, in addition to the vinyl, we would also recommend that you use an Ultra High Protection Laminate Gloss that will not only maximise the impact of the graphics but will also provide extended protection and will facilitate the speedy run-off of rainwater and dirt, thus maintaining a high quality finish.

Good luck!

For further information on the Euromedia range of products, visit: www.euromedia.eu.com

Triple success for RollsRoller The RollsRoller Flatbed Applicator distributed in the UK

by William Smith has once again proved its status as arguably the most cost-effective and accurate method of applying selfadhesive materials, application tapes and digital prints to virtually any commonly used substrate up to a thickness of 70mm.

Furthermore, it also achieves savings in production time of up to 80 percent when compared with other forms of media application.

A company that has invested in no fewer than three models of the machine is Nuneaton Signs.

Commercial Sales Manager Gary Phipps, who has been particularly impressed with the performance of the RollsRoller, commented: “The machines we have installed have greatly reduced production

Sign Directions March 2012 | 24

for road traffic signs that are a speciality of the company. Materials handled include 11SWg aluminium sheet, three millimetre-thick ACM and foamed and/or rigid PVC composite boards.

times and have increased our profitability due to their single-stage and single-person operating capabilities and to the precise and bubble-free quality of the output provided. They represent the perfect middle ground between time-consuming and costly manual application and the expensive alternative of direct-to-substrate printing.”

The machines’ also facilitate the handling of much larger sizes of both rigid and flexible substrates, which can now be processed in a matter of minutes, rather than hours, when using manual methods. At Nuneaton Signs, the RollsRoller is used for the direct-to-substrate (both channelled and flat) application of reflective or digitally printed media of varying thickness

Gary Phipps added: “The automatic height adjustment facility is great for processing substrates of a different thickness.” In addition to this facility, other design enhancements include extension tables, a supplementary roller beam and fluorescent backlighting for the application table on selective models in order to further increase the level of accuracy when handling multi-coloured or translucent graphics.

For further information on the Rolls Roller Flatbed Applicator visit: www.RollsRoller.co.uk and for information on Nuneaton Signs, visit www.nuneaton signs.co.uk

Sign Directions March 2012 | 25

eco watch

More support for EcoPrint 2012

EcoPrint 2012, the industry’s only exhibition focused exclusively on sustainability in print has recently attracted two more high profile supporters in the shape of ESMA, the European Specialist Printing Manufacturers’ Association and printer manufacturer Mutoh.

Ecoprint, which has already won the support of HP, its founding partner and Mimaki, a founding exhibitor, is scheduled to take place in Berlin on 26th-27th September 2012.

conference at the show, where it will provide all delegates with access to practical and technical guidance, to help them make a positive move towards becoming more sustainable print businesses.

Arthur Vanhoutte, President, Mutoh Belgium, added: ‘It is clear that printers are now much more concerned about the environmental impact of their businesses and since we are committed to sustainability and the creation of solutions that add commercial and environmental value for our customers, EcoPrint 2012 provides us with the perfect platform on which to tell our sustainable story.”

Explaining ESMA’s support for the show, ESMA’s CEO Peter Buttiens said: “Our members are some of the largest manufacturers of technology for the speciality print sector and thus we welcome the introduction of this unique show, which is dedicated to offering both manufacturers and end users new, innovative and profitable strategies to make our industry more sustainable.”

EcoPrint 2012 intends to deal with a number of issues that the print industry is confronting with regard to sustainability and will, over the coming months, be developing the content of the event in partnership with the EcoPrint Development Group.

In line with this philosophy, ESMA will be holding its 2012 environmental

For further information visit: www.ecoprintshow.com

Lintec relaunches website opportunity to explore Lintec’s wide portfolio including the innovative applications that can be achieved.

Lintec Graphic Films has relaunched its dedicated online portal for its growing range of environmentally friendly, UV and eco-solvent inkjet and thermal transfer printable window films.

"We decided to re-brand our dedicated glazing enhancement website to bring it in line with our main on-line portal, www.lintecgraphicfilms.com," commented Andy Voss, Managing Director of Lintec Graphic Films.

"With clear, easy-to-follow navigation and an overview of the opportunities our premium products can offer, visitors to the site should be pleased with the browsing experience."

Currently available to view in English and Italian, the website provides visitors with an

For further information visit: www.glazingenhance ment.com

Sign Directions March 2012 | 26

New eco-friendly sign cleaning solution

Described as the culmination of many years of research into the most cost-effective method of cleaning and maintaining signs without the need for hazardous chemical agents, SignClean has been introduced by INNOVA Solutions.

Providing true eco-sustainability, the product is based on advanced Micronite technology that eliminates the need for harmful solvents or petrochemical derivatives and yet remains capable of out-performing many cleaning products that rely on these agents in order to work effectively.

The SignClean system is based on the interaction of negatively and positively charged cleaning processes. This involves the initial release of billions of negatively charged Micronite particles that impact and dislodge soil, grease, grime and other pollutants from the surface. These are then held in suspension in the surrounding liquid prior to being removed by positively charged and application-specific complementary colour-coded Micronite Plus cloths and mops that have been designed for maximum soil take-up and prevention of cross contamination. Once cleaned, the surface of the sign retains the residual negative charge of the system to repel re-soiling.

SignClean is a portable and water-less sign cleaning system that requires no mixing or

rinsing to enable sign maintenance personnel to carry out their work on-site in a maintenance/housekeeping capacity. It will effectively clean any water-tolerant surface, removing deeply ingrained stains and deposits of dirt via a completely safe, non-toxic and odourless process. It has also recently been passed as ‘Food Safe’ by Campden BRI, the UK’s leading research and development facility for the food and drinks industries, to enable its use in food preparation areas. For lighter soiling, the system can be diluted with water to further enhance its environmental credentials and cost efficiency. It can also be foamed to increase contact time on vertical surfaces and thus further reduce wastage.

The system is suitable for virtually any commonly used signmaking substrate on which it will perform much better than neutral anti-static cleaners due to the residual anionic charge on the surface that repels re-soiling and dust more effectively.

These include all forms of plastics and acrylics, metals, including stainless steel, aluminium, copper and brass, most paint finishes, including powder-coated, epoxy resin and oil-based, ACM materials, vinyl and glass.

SignClean is also available with a broadspectrum biocide for use in healthcare, care homes and schools.

For further information visit: www.innovasolutionsonline.co.uk

Sign Directions October 2011 | 27

cutting, routing and engraving

Our regular round-up of the latest developments in routing and engraving

More choice from Radecal Radecal Machine Sales & Service has expanded its portfolio of routing and engraving equipment, by adding Roland’s EGX engraver and the Techno series of CNC routers to its product range.

LaserPro laser engraving and cutting machines from Grafityp UK can be used in conjunction with tiles, textiles, marble and wood to provide a vast range of different product applications.

Commenting on this development, Radecal’s Managing Director, Chris Economides said: “Techno CNC, for whom we are now the exclusive UK distributor, offers a range that includes everything from the LC tabletop Series to the HDS Series of routers, thus enabling us to offer our clients even more precision cutting systems at extremely competitive prices.”

Craig Williams, Sales Manager at Radecal, added: “Since becoming a Roland wide format partner last year, we’ve experienced some great success and we believe that the addition of the Roland engravers to our portfolio will enable us to take our customers into some interesting and profitable new markets.”

Constructed from high quality components, Techno routers provide superior cutting, while requiring

Get Creative With LaserPro

minimal maintenance. Designed to provide smooth, powerful, fast and accurate motion, they can be used in conjunction with a wide variety of substrates, including everything from wood to stainless steel, thus facilitating a wide range of applications.

interface and remote hand-panel for easy access to key commands and a full software preview mode enables operators to check results before engraving to reduce the risk of potential errors when undertaking high volume work.

Roland’s EGX-350 desktop engraver is Ideal for personalising a whole selection of promotional items, gifts and trophies in single units or in batch production. It has an intuitive user

For further information visit: www.radecalmachinesales.co.uk or visit Radecal on Stand H30 at Sign & Digital UK 2012.

To further extend the scope of possible output, Grafityp has now added the new Mercury III and SpiritLS and GLS models to a range that already includes the desktop Venus II and C180 models, as well as the large format Gaia II and X500LS/X500RX cutters, all of which are available in a choice of power options up to 200 watts.

In addition, a rotary attachment is available for use with a number of models, in order to facilitate engraving onto cylindrical or round objects, such as glasses, cups and tennis balls. All machines are ideal for producing promotional items, awards and one off personalised gifts.

To arrange a demonstration or request further information visit: www.grafityp.co.uk.

Software Our pick of the newest software releases Accuracy is everything Clarity Software’s new, superefficient Clarity Professional v4.1, the latest incarnation of the company’s fully flowing and specifically tailored MIS package, will be premiering at Sign & Digital UK 2012.

The v4.1 version enables users to experience a whole new level of information, facilitating positive and accurate business decisions. Now, it is even easier to choose when to accept or reject a job, thanks to the re-developed Job Costing and Cost Analysis functionality, which enables users to see, at a glance, the true margin on a specific job and to take advantage of any genuine revenue opportunities that it offers.

In addition, new stock management developments in the Goods Handling module helps to reduce errors, wastage and stock holding, and quoting speeds

Sign Directions March 2012 | 28

are faster due to enhanced costing calculators and new Cost Types, which enable precise cost management of outsourced jobs and resources, such as hiring a press or a cutting machine.

Further, v4.1 helps companies to use left over stock in the form of off-cuts and partial rolls in the most appropriate way to minimise wastage and to maximise production efficiency V4.1 also facilitates online marketing and CRM, as it now integrates with Clarity Software’s cloud-based e-marketing

system Clarity Marketing.

It synchronises key customer and prospect information with Clarity Marketing in real time, via the Internet, so that highly profiled target lists can be built for precision use with email and Internet marketing campaigns, enabling users to spend less and to gain more value from their marketing budgets.

For further information www.clarity-software.com

visit:

Sign Directions March 2012 | 29

supplier spotlight

plotter/cutters from Graphtec GB and Summa and laminators from Seal and EasyMount.

180 Not Out!

More recently, William Smith has been appointed an HP Channel Partner for its Latex range of printers . These more environmentally aware printing solutions incorporate the unique and patented HP Latex Ink Technology, which has only minimal VOC emission, contains no hazardous air pollutants and does not generate ozone emissions during the printing process.

As a consequence, no expensive fume extraction or special ventilating equipment is required, thus adding to its appeal to print providers who want to switch from potentially harmful solvent-based systems to this faster, cleaner and ultimately more costeffective water-based printing technology.

This year, William Smith celebrates its 180th Anniversary. In this commemorative feature, Mike Connolly charts some of the seminal stages in the history of this remarkable company, from the somewhat unconventional beginning, to its current status as arguably the longest serving and certainly one the most successful and popular resources for integrated sign and graphics and digital printing solutions for the trade and selective end users.

Established as a foundry in 1832, William Smith’s formative years were spent in the manufacture of street cleaning and associated highway maintenance equipment for local authorities. This led somewhat inevitably to the production of cast iron and subsequently cast aluminium signs for this industry sector and provided the groundwork for the company’s future marketing strategy.

From this beginning and under the guidance of successive members of the Smith family, the company has survived the ravages of two world wars and, at times, an uncertain future to engage more fully with the developing sign industry and in 1964 adopted limited status. This coincided with the introduction of new road traffic sign regulations, as a result of which a then revolutionary new vinyl material manufactured by 3M was adopted for sign faces, letters and symbols used in the production of road and traffic signage. It also marked the beginning of what came to be recognised as one of the most enduring and successful business partnerships in the history of the UK sign and graphics industry.

Having previously supplied local authorities with cast aluminium signs, William Smith then entered into an agreement with 3M to use its Scotchcal and Scotchlite vinyl materials for the manufacture of vinylapplied road and traffic signs. This was followed by the installation of the first Scotchprint electrostatic printer that

Sign Directions March 2012 | 30

coincided with the company’s entry into the large-format sign and graphics market. A new Scotchprint 2000 electronic machine was subsequently installed which, at the time, was unique in that it enabled 3M’s renowned Matched Component System (MCS) warranty to be used for finished signs and graphics based on 3M manufacturing and application protocols.

In 1982, William Smith introduced the use of pre-spaced vinyl lettering and logos to the UK market and in 1991 became the first European company to produce digitally printed largeformat graphics using the 3M Scotchprint Graphics printing system.

The company was also one of the first to be authorised by the former ICI Acrylics to use its patented Prismex lighting technology in its Luminedge edge-lit sign and display solutions.

In 2003, William Smith decided to split its core activities into three clearly defined divisions, Material Distribution, Graphic Solutions and Sign Solutions, with each division having its own dedicated and specially trained team of managers, sales and marketing and technical support personnel. This resulted in a considerable increase in turnover across each division, most notably in Materials Distribution and fuelled commensurate profitability for the company to enable future growth.

Further investment in state-of-the-art printing and finishing systems helped sustain this growth, which continues in spite of the current economic climate.

Arlon and R-Tape and, more recently, its own-brand range of vehicle wrapping films.

An important development to the company’s materials supply capabilities came as a result of William Smith being appointed as a primary distributor for Contra Vision and in particular its range of Contra Vision Performance perforated films and ancillary products.

Strengthening of the Materials Distribution Division was underpinned by investment in a new and larger warehouse facility incorporating automated stocking systems and daily replenishment of stock levels. This has led to an even faster turnaround on orders and a significant expansion of the company’s customer base.

In addition to the vast range of 3M materials, for which William Smith remains the UK’s largest stockist and distributor, the company has added materials from other manufacturers to accommodate niche-market requirements and to enable greater flexibility in its pricing. Most notably these include products from Ritrama,

William Smith continues to enjoy huge success with the RollsRoller Flatbed Applicator for which it was the first exclusive UK and Ireland distributor, This machine remains the most versatile and cost-effective solution for the application of media to virtually any substrate used in the manufacture of signs and displays, embodying both unparalleled production capabilities via a range of different machines and enhanced safety for operators through the special design features installed.

The company also continues to distribute market-leading

Distribution of the HP Latex printers harmonises perfectly with William Smith’s own in-house environmental policies. The company was one of the first to issue a definitive environmental policy statement that complies with the requirements of the Environment Agency Approved Guidelines and related bodies to which its managerial and supervisory staff have a clearly stated ‘duty of care’ to implement in all relevant workplace situations.

William Smith was also one of the first companies in the UK sign and graphics and digital printing sectors to attain the Quality Assurance Standard BS 5750 (ISO 9001:200) and constantly monitors the quality of its services and product portfolios to meet new standards as these emerge. This commitment is underpinned by membership of the leading trade associations, including the British Sign & Graphics Association (BSGA), the Local Authority Sign Manufacturers Association (LASMA) and the Association of Road Traffic Management (ARTSM).

The company’s customer support facilities have also been further enhanced via the setting up of a special dedicated training suite for vehicle wrapping, from which a series of ongoing two-day training courses

that cover all of the basics of vehicle wrapping are run. They are supported by 3M Authorised Trainer Andrew Gamble who has over 20 years of experience in this widely used technology.

For the future, William Smith is constantly sourcing new materials and hardware solutions to keep abreast of

the rapid advances that are taking place within the sign and graphics and digital printing sectors, a policy that it confidently hopes to employ for the next 180 years!

For further information visit: www.williamsmith.co.uk or visit William Smith on Stand E30 at Sign & Digital UK.

Sign Directions March 2012 | 31

digital news

Print now, pay later!

Perfect Colours is offering a new finance option for companies wishing to upgrade to new HP Designjet printers.

Under this new ‘deferred payment plan’ potential purchasers can defer payment for six months from the date of delivery and installation of their new machine. The offer covers all HP Designjet large format printers, including the most recent Latex models and is available with immediate effect.

Jason Burroughs, Managing Director of Perfect Colours, explained: “This offers customers the opportunity to build

business and enjoy revenue from the Designjet machine before they actually have to pay for it, something that we feel our customers will find very helpful in the current challenging business climate.”

Perfect Colours is an official HPauthorised service partner for DesignJet printers and is able to service and support all HP DesignJet printers under the HP warranty. As with all financial arrangements, the six-month deferred payment option is subject to standard terms and conditions.

For further information www.perfectcolours.com

Better service in the midlands John E Wright has formed a new partnership with Service Point to supply all of its print, goods and services to the Architectural, Engineering and Construction (AEC) sector in the Nottingham and Derby regions.

Accordingly, the Nottingham branch of Service Point will be merged into the existing John E Wright operation with the retention of all relevant staff and equipment.

John E Wright said: “This provides us with a great opportunity to improve our service levels to the AEC market in the East Midlands, as we can combine our small and wide format printing and finishing capabilities with Service Point’s traditional document printing, management and archiving services.

Further, as we have more braches within the region, we will also be able to provide a faster, local service at a time when turnaround times are becoming increasingly important.”

Commenting on this development, Tony Barnett, Managing Director of

For further information visit: www.johnewright.com

Sign Directions March 2012 | 32

visit

Three times a winner!

Widely acknowledged as the UK’s largest reseller of HP Designjet latex printers, CWE Solutions has further strengthened its position by scooping now fewer than three ‘Partner of the Year’ awards during a recent awards event in London.

The company enjoyed an evening of great success at the HP Designjet UK and Ireland 2011 Channel Awards, scooping the awards for Sign & Display Partner of the Year, Graphics Partner of the Year, and System Sales Partner of the Year.

Accepting the awards on behalf of CWES, the company’s Sales Manager, Graham De Kock said: “We work hard to be the best in our sector, by advising clients on the right printing solutions for them and providing the ongoing support and service they need to get the best out of their equipment, so it’s great to be recognised for our efforts.”

The first award presented to CWES was the Sign & Display Partner of the Year, in relation to its sales of HP Designjet L25500, HP Scitex LX Series and HP

Scitex FB Series printers.

This was followed by the presentation of the Graphics Partner of the Year award, in respect of its HP Designjet Z Series printer sales. The final award, for the System Sales Partner of the Year, was presented to CWES for its total sales within the ‘Wide Format and Grand Printing Sector’, including hardware, consumables and care packs.

For further information visit: www.cwesolutions.co.uk

GPT to support Mimaki latex offering Following Mimaki’s launch of the new JV400LX Series of latex ink based printers. Graphic Printing Technologies has announced that it confidently expects to become a key reseller of this product and will install a demonstration system at its Reading showroom.

The company also plans to show the machine on its stand at the Sign & Digital UK exhibition.

John O’Regan, Regional Business Director for Service Point (left) seals the deal with Tony Barnett, Managing Director of John E Wright (right).

General Manager of GPT, Stuart Cole, commented: “The new Mimaki latex

machine has excellent environmental credentials, as it offers lower running costs and can be used in conjunction with a wider range of substrates. We fully expect it to become an extremely popular, market leading product and plan to give it our full support.”

For further information visit: http://www.g-p-t.co.uk/solventprinters-outdoor-print/mimakijv400-130lx-and-jv400-160lxdetail_189.asp

Sign Directions Nov/Dec 2011 | 33

digital news

Mimaki tastes success excess of 18m2 /hr, the second of three machines on the stand was configured with the seven colour option including white.

Also on show was the JV400SUV, which combines the same brand-new print engine, with a unique ink that is cured via UV lamps and delivers an ultra durable, glossy and vibrant print. This machine will be available in the summer.

The recent FESPA Digital 2012 exhibition in Barcelona drew visitor numbers far in excess of the organisers' best estimates and it seemed that at times, the majority of them were crowded onto the Mimaki stand, examining the raft of new product launches from the Japanese printer manufacturer.

The worldwide unveiling of the company’s JV400 range of latex printers was undoubtedly a show

highlight, with Mimaki Europe reporting that it had notched up in excess of 150 pre-orders only part way through the exhibition. Available in 1.3m and 1.6m print widths, the printer, which offers a unique white latex ink, will make its UK debut on the Hybrid Services stand at Sign & Digital UK 2012 (See page 46). However, attendees at FESPA were able to see it print at very low cure temperatures onto a broad array of materials. With one machine outputting 2x CMYK at speeds in

Northprint returns to Harrogate Informa Exhibitions has confirmed that Northprint 2013 will return to Harrogate next year, where it is scheduled to take place on the 14th-16th May. The company has also revealed that a third of the exhibitors at Northprint 2011 have re-booked for the 2013 event, including Konica Minolta, Intelligent Finishing Solutions, Tharstern, and Renz.

The decision to stay in Harrogate follows comprehensive research into exhibitors' and visitors' attitudes to every aspect of the show, including the possibility of a new venue. When asked whether a move to Manchester would affect their attendance, 75 percent of

Sign Directions March 2012 | 34

exhibitors and 70 percent of visitors said it would either have no effect or would make them less likely to attend.

However, the research confirmed that there is strong support for a continuing major print exhibition in the North, with 70 percent of visitors regarding Northprint as being a very or quite important exhibition, and 56 percent rating it as excellent or good.

In addition, Mimaki used FESPA to launch two dye sublimation printers, the Mimaki TS34-1800A, a 1.9m wide, high quality production machine suitable for sportswear, retail POS and graphics work with production speeds in excess of 30m2/ hr and the Mimaki TS500 which offers speeds of up to of 150m2/hr, making it ideal for high volume production of printed transfer paper in the sportswear and fashion manufacturing sectors.

For further information visit: wwwhybridservices.co.uk

Going a bundle on Epson and EFI Building on its joint success in North America, EFI and Epson have launched new Designer Edition product bundles in Europe, to provide a complete proofing solution.

Combining award-winning Epson Stylus Pro printers with an industry-leading EFI eXpress for Epson Software RIP, these bundles are engineered to deliver powerful yet easy-touse solutions, which enable users to print their creative visions with great colour accuracy.

Included as part of the Designer Edition bundles are the Epson Stylus Pro WT7900, the Epson Stylus Pro 4900 (with or without SpectroProofer) and the Epson Stylus Pro 3880. The combination of these printers and the EFI eXpress inkjet RIP gives users the ability to create colour accurate comps, proofs or mockups, alongside RGB photographs.

Northprint 2011 bounced back strongly from a disappointing recession-hit 2009 show, recording a 40 percent rise in attendance.

The software includes sophisticated yet simple to use spot colour support with embedded libraries for DIC, HKS, PANTONE and Toyo, ensuring accurate colour reproduction out of the box. plus True Adobe interpreters facilitate complete compatibility with the latest design suites on a Mac or PC.

For further information visit: www.informaexhibitions.com or www.informa.com

For further information visit: www.epsoneurope.com

Sign Directions March 2012 | 35

my way

Worthwhile Investments Companies explain why they chose the equipment they use Established digital print company Graphics & Exhibitions is benefiting from the outdoor graphic capabilities of its two new HP 25500 printers, which enable it to offer UV stability in all print projects.

advantages of HP latex printing and the huge media choice that it facilitates, but now that the L25500 printers are installed, they are really helping us to widen the scope of the applications we can offer our clients.”

Nigel Carter, Managing Director of Graphics & Exhibitions explained that the reason for buying the two machines from HP reseller CWE Solutions was to gain the twin benefits of reliability and outdoor print capabilities.

He continued: “They also offer a number of other benefits too, including the fact that we can change the printheads ourselves inhouse, so it is much easier to keep the printers running and, because we have two machines, when we are working on a big project, we can simply split the work between them and get the job done in half the time!”

have moved to outdoor inks, but fortunately, the HP latex ink printers enable us to provide a high level of print quality for both interior and exterior applications, without having to worry about the affects of fading due to sun exposure as Latex ink is UV-stable.”

Over the past 18 years Graphics & Exhibitions has witnessed quite a few changes within the print sector, including the production of outdoor graphics. Acknowledging this, Nigel Carter said: “Everything seems to

One of the company’s most recent projects was for the Bar Barista Cafe, where the graphics were created as part of a bigger campaign that is being run in conjunction with Bridge Valley Beverages.

Explaining his company’s choice, Nigel Carter said: “Having used HP 5000 printers for many years, we knew that HP machines were ultra reliable, but unfortunately, the HP 5000s weren’t really suitable for the production of outdoor durable graphics. In fact, it wasn’t until we met with CWE Solutions that we began to appreciate the many

Based in Reading, Glendining Signs is a major supplier of health and safety signage within the construction industry, which has also successfully expanded into other areas, such as the provision of freestanding sign frames and large format printing services.

As part of its ongoing strategy of re-investment, the company decided to move into the area of

Sign Directions March 2012 | 36

‘direct to substrate’ UV printing.

Previously, it had used solvent printers to print onto vinyl, meaning that the resulting output had to be cut to size and then laminated onto the substrate - a time consuming and labour intensive process.

In order to ensure that it bought the most appropriate UV machine, Glendining Signs sought the advice of Robert Horne Group, its supplier of choice since 2001.

Robert Horne recommended the HP Scitex FB 500 and, as part of its consultative approach, it invited the Glendining team to its Manchester-based based Digital

Suite, where the company was able to use its own files and substrates and thus experience at first-hand the value the printer could add to its operation.

Impressed by the overall reduction in running costs, combined with cheaper inks, no vinyl costs, and the higher quality finish that the machine could offer, Glendining Signs went ahead with its purchase with the result that it is now able to produce quality signage faster and more cost effectively. In addition, the new machine is also opening up new areas of operation.

Nigel Carter concluded: “Despite the fact I’ve been running this company for almost 20 years I still really enjoy the work as each day is so varied and you never know what will come through the door next. Happily, whether its retail displays, POP or signage, our new machines will cope with everything that’s thrown at them!”

For further information visit: www.cwesolutions.co.uk and w w w . g r a p h i c s a n d exhibitions.com

Chris Lake, Operations Director at Glendining Signs said: “ The FB 500 offers a white ink option, something we have never previously had, but which is now helping us to enjoy new revenue streams. It is also enabling us to keep a competitive edge, by offering customers keen pricing, supreme quality and fast turnaround times and we are extremely grateful to Robert Horne for pointing us in the right direction.”

For further information visit: www.roberthorne.co.uk and www.glendining.co.uk

TG Print & Design, a multi-service company based in Woolwich, south east London, has selected Agfa’s :Anapurna Mw to help it to develop its wide-format display business.

Originally established 15 years ago with second-hand equipment, TG has steadily progressed under the guidance of its Managing Director, David Duhig to become a company with a turnover approaching £4 million and a staff of 18, of which almost a third are locally recruited young people on various trainee schemes.

The business started out using an Epson proofer, followed by a Roland roll-to-roll printer, before David Duhig realised that it needed a more productive machine. Accordingly, hardware supplier The Art Centre suggested that he should look at an :Anapurna, which lead to him visiting Agfa at its HQ in Belgium. David remembered: “I was very impressed with what I saw. The :Anapurna prints onto a much wider variety of substrates and can also handle rigid material up to 40 mm thick, so the possibilities of expanding our services were greatly enhanced.”

A professional hybrid UV-printer designed to produce high quality wide-format output onto a wide range of rigid and roll-to-roll media, the Anapurna Mw uses white ink to print onto coloured or dark

substrates. It also creates new possibilities for printing onto transparent material for backlit applications or printing white as a spot colour.

TG Print & Design has built up a reputation for printing double-sided, four colour A5 and A6 promotional flyers, and by producing reliable quality print and keeping its customers well informed as to its other services, its business has mostly grown via word of mouth. As many customers choose to collect their print, a varied selection of samples are always left in the reception area, so that they can see the full gamut of the output the company can provide.

This has further expanded since it acquired the :Anapurna Mw, which it is now using to print onto glass, mirrors, wood, metal and plastic.

David Duhig commented: “It is an extremely versatile machine and I am sure we will be working with Agfa for many years to come.”

For further information visit: www.agfa.com and www.tgprint.net

Sign Directions March 2012 | 37

my way

printer knowing they will both come out exactly as we want them.”

Colourgen reseller, CWE Solutions has supplied a Seiko ColorPainter W-64S wide format solvent-based inkjet printer to Display Signs, one of London’s leading signmakers, whose factory is equipped with a broad range of sign making technology, including the latest large format digital printers and routing equipment, thus enabling it to produce top quality signs at competitive prices.

Although a signmaker very much in the traditional mould, Display Signs first made a significant move into digital technology around eight years ago, when it originally purchased a Seiko ColorPainter 64S, selected for its quality, speed and reliability. Paul Cater, the company’s Sales Director, explained: “The introduction of solvent-based inkjet printing revolutionised our business and I would say around 60 to70 percent of our work is now digital.

We also do a lot of cut vinyl and lettering, particularly for directional wayfinding signage for schools, colleges and hospitals and the ColorPainter 64S has always proven ideal for this market. For many years it was an excellent workhorse, very reliable and gave us very few problems.”

He continued: “When we saw the new ColorPainter W-64S, we were confident that it took the technology forward quite significantly and that it would deliver even higher levels of quality and reliability. It also has an advanced front drying system that helps ensure print workflows are

The day-to-day maintenance of the W-64S is proving to be another big benefit. Paul observed: “It requires very little in terms of maintenance and everything is very easy to access and clean. We now save a good ten to fifteen minutes every day thanks to the improved process. Further, it uses significantly less ink which has already saved us a lot of money.”

Paul concluded, “One of the major

benefits to us is the Seiko W-64S’s reliability and the fact that both CWE Solutions and Colourgen are able to sort out any glitches very quickly. We are now able to offer guaranteed delivery dates with real confidence, because the Seiko is fast, consistent and reliable and delivers fantastic image quality every time – in short it has proved to be a very worthwhile investment.”

For further information visit: www.colourgen.com and www.displaysigns.net

faster, which, in turn, facilitates greater producitivty.”

The ColorPainter W-Series, which is available in 54” and 64” widths, features new printheads that offer resolutions up to 900dpi, as well as triple-drop technology for four-step greyscale. It offers two colour configurations, including a fourcolour option for lower running costs and increased speed and a sixcolour option for higher image quality. The combination of six new high speed printheads, two types of ink and several new innovative printing functions further increases the printer’s performance and widens its application range for the sign and digital printing sectors.

Less than six months after the installation of the first Agfa :MPress Leopard flatbed press in Ireland, Dublin-based print and design company Horizon has opted for a second machine in order to satsify the extra demand generated by its original investment.

The new printer was supplied to Display Signs’ complete with Caldera’s VisualRIP+, which has proved to be a major improvement on the RIP that was being used for the company’s other printers. Paul

added: “We can now run both the Seiko and our HP printer using VisualRIP+ from a single screen. The software is calibrated so there are no colour issues between the printers and we can print jobs to either

Originally established in 1996, Horizon, which now employs more than 50 staff across two sites, now specialises in the production of point-of-sale and outdoor graphics for a number of blue chip

customers, including Heineken and Tesco Ireland.

Explaining the company’s acquisition of a second machine, its Joint Managing Director, Ken Kavanagh, said: "Our positive experience with the first installation gave us the confidence to make this further significent investment and, added to that, since our customers were increasingly insisting that their jobs were produced on the :M-Press Leopard, we really had no choice!”

The :M-Press Leopard, which has been co-developed by Agfa and Thieme to offer high-quality printing onto a wide variety of substrates, including backlit material, paper, self-adhesive vinyl, fluted display board, metal plates, corrugated board and PVC up to 1.6m x 2.6m, up to 50mm thick and at resolutions of up to 720dpi, using Agfa’s own Anuvia UV inks. It

incorporates the same inkjet shuttle technology as the Agfa Graphics’ :M-Press Tiger, enabling it to match the Tiger’s print quality, but it has been specifically designed for jobs that require more manual handling.

For further information visit: www.agfa.co.uk and www.horizonhouse.ie

Buildings and other municipal infrastructure represent enduring investments in the long term well being and prosperity of the towns and cities they grace. The customer-facing complexion of the businesses they often support though, is changing at a pace that town planners could never have anticipated.

Sign Directions Jan/Feb2012 | 38

Sign Directions March 2012 | 39

sign & digital UK 2012 preview

Corel Workshops Timetable 10:30 - 11:15

This session provides information on all of the new techniques and tools and advice on how to use them to best effect.

Many happy returns!

This year marks a very special milestone in the exhibition’s history as Sign & Digital UK celebrates its 25th Anniversary, which means that visitors will be able to experience and enjoy a host of new features, in addition to all of the well-loved favourites, and the opportunity to see all of the latest product launches and updates.

In commemoration of the exhibitions’ long lineage, there will be a dedicated area on the show floor featuring a special ‘25 Year Gallery’ where visitors will be able to view memorabilia ranging from some of the equipment and materials that have made their mark at the show since

1987, together with a photographic exhibition tracing the event’s evolution.

Another new feature will be The Green Trail, which is designed to highlight products that have either an eco-friendly or ethical component.

These will include ink and media, printers, and recyclable display products, as well as a range of sustainable solutions provided by the digital signage sector.

11:30 - 12:15

Hosted by Terry Steeley from Iridius, The Adobe Theatre will provide demonstrations, tips and creative solutions for common sign and design problems, while the Corel Seminars will cover topics ranging from the harmonising of colour to typography and page layout. A timetable for the Adobe Theatre appears overleaf, whilst the Corel Seminars are detailed on the opposite page.

Sign Directions March 2012 | 40

Designed to reward signing excellence, whilst also providing an excellent opportunity for signmakers to meet up with friends, colleagues and customers, the event will combine a drinks reception, a three-course dinner and entertainment, with the presentation of awards to winners in 10 different categories. (To see a list of this year’s finalists, visit: www.signuk.com/Content/ Awards-Shortlist)

TV comedian Seann Walsh, who is a former winner of the Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year competition, and who now stars as team captain of Argumental, will provide the entertainment. He has also guested on a number of popular comedy and panel shows, including Mock the Week, Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, 8 out of 10 Cats, Russell Howard’s Good News Extra and Comic Relief’s 24 Hour Panel People To book either an individual seat or a table at the Awards event, contact Emma Leadbeatter on Tel: 0208 651 7073.

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite - Poster Project - Step-by-Step This step-by-step tutorial uses both familiar and new tools in both CorelDRAWand and Corel PHOTO-PAINT to create an advertising poster.

Competitions

13:00 - 13:45

Wilcom DecoStudio e2 - A CorelDRAW Product This session is especially designed to assist companies wishing to set up their own embroidery businesses and to illustrate how they can use Wilcom DecoStudio e2 DecoStudio

The Signmakers’ Workshop, which is returning for the third year, will once again be presented by expert signmaker Paul Hughes of Western Signs & Printing and the popular Price It Guide. A full timetable appears overleaf.

14:15 - 15:00

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite - Harmonising Colour in Designs Choosing a colour is a critical part of a printing workflow. This session examines how CorelDRAW and Corel PHOTO-PAINT can streamline a workflow through the creation of Color Styles.

15:30 - 16:15

Launched last year, the Sign & Digital UK Awards and Networking Event will once again be held at the National Motorcycle Museum, which is conveniently located opposite the main entrance of the NEC.

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite – An overview of new features

Naturally, many exhibitors will be offering various stand attractions in the form of demonstrations and competitions. For example, Mimaki’s exclusive distributor, Hybrid Services is inviting visitors to celebrate 25 years of Sign & Digital UK on its stand, where on Wednesday 28th March, they can relive the glory days of the late 1980s with Manchester United footballing legends from the time; Arthur Albiston and Lou Macari.

Hybrid is providing the opportunity for visitors to have their photograph taken with the stars by photographic consultant to the club; Frank Wilson, whilst reminiscing on the late 1980’s, when the exhibition was originally launched. Hybrid will email visitors’ photos after the exhibition and send them this free memento to show off to their friends and family. It will also be

possible for visitors to enjoy a Q&A session with the former Scottish internationals, recall celebrated victories over local rivals and remember a time famous for its haircuts, music, team kits and of course – great football!

Learn to make an impact by adding impressive graphics created in CorelDraw, to video content using Corel VideoStudio Pro. *16:15 - 17:00

In addition, the company is also offering any visitor who re-registers their attendance at the show the opportunity to win an unforgettable VIP trip for two to a top flight game at Manchester United’s Theatre of Dreams; Old Trafford.

And for those whose sporting passion centres on motor bikes, DPI is offering two tickets to a British Super Bikes (BSB) event. All visitors to its stand will automatically be entered into a free prize draw.

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite - Accessorise Graphic Suite and Expand Creativity!

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite -Typography & Page Layout The basis of any good design is the page layout and the creative use of fonts. This workshop discusses how to achieve the best effects. * Note: This session will be omitted on Thursday 29th March Timings are repeated daily.

The above programme is subject to change.

Sign Directions March 2012 | 41

sign & digital UK 2012 preview

Adobe Theatre Timetable

Signmakers’ Workshop Timetable

10.30-11.15

10.30 - 12.00

Photoshop Elements 10 & Premiere Elements 10 Attendees will discover exciting new ways to edit still and moving images. (45min)

11.30-12.15

12.30-13.30

• • • • • • •

Adobe Bridge CS5 – Getting started with Bridge Adobe Bridge is a comprehensive media manager providing immediate access to all project files, automation tools for mundane and tedious tasks, drag and drop compatibility with other Adobe products, the invaluable Mini Bridge and centralised Colour Management control settings. (45min)

12.30 - 2.00

Adobe Photoshop CS5.1 – Hidden gems!

With a simplified user interface, Photoshop CS5.1 continues to redefine digital imaging and now offers time-saving features, raw image processing control, superior black and white conversion functionality, 64bit performance, one-click colour adjustments, powerful printing options and much more. (60min)

13.30-14.30

Lunch Break

14.30-15.15

Adobe InDesign CS5.5 – Knowledge is power Looking to design and preflight sophisticated page layouts for print or digital distribution? With built-in creative tools, unparalleled precision typography, native file support and comprehensive preflight and production tools, Adobe InDesign CS5.5 can create, edit and publish faster than ever before. (45min)

Basic Application of Vinyl Learn about the different types of vinyls and what vinyl to use on which jobs.

Weeding Application tapes Applying text Applying multi layers of vinyl Flood coating of substrate with vinyl Working on glass Q & A session

Basics of Vehicle Livery Going back to basics and concentrating on the ever popular basic lettering on commercial vehicles • • • •

General advice of layout Cleaning and preparation of the vehicle Applying vinyl to a vehicle surface Finishing - trimming vinyl on a vehicle dealing with door/panel seams • Q & A session.

2.30 - 4.00

The Basics of Making a Signboard Covering the different substrates that can be used to make a signboard and when and where to use them • • • •

How to work with the different substrate Frames - what, when, and how Sign trays for beginners Q&A session

Timings are repeated daily.

The above programme is subject to change.

15.30-16.15

Adobe Illustrator CS5.1 – Different folk, different strokes Considered to be the designer's best friend, Adobe Illustrator CS5.1 uses powerful creative tools blended with productivity enhancements to enable users to work efficiently, integrate seamlessly with other Adobe applications and produce stunning output with beautiful text. (45min)

*16.30-17.00

Controlling colour – Soft-proofing made easy This session equips attendees with the necessary skills to correctly set- colour settings, understand how to accurately soft proof images onscreen and to produce a perfect proof. (30min) *Note: This session will not run on Thursday 29th March.

Timings are repeated daily. This timetable is subject to change

Sign Directions March 2012 | 42

Registration To ensure they make the most of their attendance at the show, and to save time upon arrival, all visitors are encouraged to preregister.

Pre-registration is FREE and only takes a minute to complete.

Simply go to www.signanddigitaluk.com.

Sign Directions Nov/Dec 2011 | 43

sign & digital UK 2012 preview

Who’s Who Company

Stand No

Adelco Screen Process Ltd AG/CAD Ltd Agfa Graphics/ Agfa Gevaert Ltd

F74 K8 J30

Albion Design & Fabrication Ltd

G72

All Formats

P78

Antalis McNaughton Ltd

D40

Applelec Sign Components N50

Company

Stand No

Below, you’ll find an A to Z listing of exhibitors, together with their stand numbers, which is followed overleaf with information on the products some of the leading companies will be showing.

Company

Stand No

Company

Stand No

Epilog Laser/CSI (UK)

N10

Laserplas Ltd

M64

Epson

E70

Latitude

P110

Shop and Display Equipment Association

P122

Shuttleworth Business Systems Limited

P52

Sign Comp Europe Ltd

H70

Sign Directions

P62

Sign Elite (Real Insurance Group Ltd)

P22

Esko

J32

Expand International

L60

Fairfield Displays & Lighting K60 Fattorini

P82

Forsstrom/ ZUND Plotting Systems (UK) Ltd C42 & E10 Friedheim International

G34

Ledel Lighting Industrial Limited Leopold Professional Imaging Ltd LFR

G62 P132

P38

LION PICTURE FRAMING SUPPLIES Ltd

K32

Sign Gear Systems Ltd

K62

Listawood Trade Supplies

M70

Sign Link

C74

Maxicam Ltd

C32

Sign Update Magazine

P114

Mid West Displays

P42

Signmaster Systems Ltd

N20

Mida Sign Services Ltd

G64

Signwaves

N30

Arlon Graphics UK

P54

Fujifilm

H10

ArtBloc

L18

Galaxy Printek Europe Ltd

F10

GIGAPrint Ltd

E32

Global Erecting Sign Services Ltd

K30

Mouse PS Ltd

N60

Sihl Direct UK Ltd

C62

G10

Multipanel UK

L52

Silverskies Limited

P57

Grandstands Display P76 & P77

Mutoh Belgium

H32

SMGG

L32

Granthams

Nova Chrome UK Ltd

D32

OCE (UK) Ltd

E10

Solent Sewing & Welding Machines

K50

ArtSystems

L30

AVP Ltd

L10

Award Crafters Ltd

P50

AXYZ International Beijing Fulei Industrial & Commercial Co Ltd

G38 F60

Bisbell Magnetic Products Ltd

P72

Blackburns Metals

L64

Grafityp UK Ltd

Graphic Printing Technologies

P18 D30

OK INDUSTRY INC

P112

Soyang Europe LTD

P120

M52

Space Display UK Ltd

M56

Space Electronic Science & Tech Co., Ltd

P12

Spectron LED

P86

Stock Displays Ltd

M30

M54

Tecna UK

N46 L20

GraphicDisplay Community.com

P62

Oriam Green (UK) Ltd

G32

Graphtec GB Ltd

G60

Oshino LED Lighting

D74

E36

Output Magazine

F32

J10

Photo USA Electronic Graphic Inc

Bright Green Technology Limited

P34

Brownings Limited

G31

Hanolex Ltd

BSGA

P62

Hewlett Packard

BTC Activewear

P30

Hexis UK Limited

Optimus

C10

Canvas & Stretcher Bars Ltd L62

HPC Laser Ltd

M12

Plex Display

N70

Tekcel CNC Solutions

CASE-iD

Hybrid Services

D10

Premier Frameworks Ltd

E34

Tetenal Ltd

F62

printMax

F30

The Finishing Point Ltd

H76

Profil - TS uk

J72

The Magic Touch

N12

L8

The Sign Group

B40

P8

Changzhou Quality Flag Industry Co., Ltd

P10

Chapter 8 Highways

Image Reports Magazine

C72

P28

INDASOL Industrial Adhesive Solutions Ltd

J74

Clarity Software

M10

Inktec Europe

K12

CNC World

D72

Insight Sign Systems

P58

I-Spi trade supply

M50

I-Sub Ltd

C39

COHERENT (Deutschland) GmbH

G36

Color Confidence

P94

Colorific Colour Mill Ltd

P130 P2

ITC Ltd IUS Light Co., LTD Jingjiang Naisi Digital Technology Co., Ltd

J70 P6

Quality Print Services Ltd R A Smart RADECAL machine sales and service

C22 H30

Reprographic Technology International

H14

Revolution Transfers

H12

Tradesigns UK

P56

Trotec Laser Ltd

D70

TTF Ltd

G74

Ultima Displays

E60

Universal Aluminium Systems Ltd

L50

Vellum Art

D62

Rishang Opto-electronics Co., Ltd

P24

Viking Tapes

Ritrama (UK) Ltd

K70

Vistech Technical Services

Roland DG (UK) Ltd

G30

William Smith

E30

ColourLink

C30

CTR Lasers

L74

Delcam

K34

Josero Limited/ Triangle UK

Digiprint Supplies

K10

JT LED Lighting Solutions

H72

RollerSigns

WYZRDS Co. Ltd

P84

Keencut Limited

N76

Romac Display Solutions

P14

Xpres

F40

L72

Your Print Partner LTD

M14

Yuan Yuan

H62

Zapkut Ltd

P70

F64 P150

Digital Print Innovations Ltd

H60

Kernow Coatings Ltd

P68

RotoSigns

DISQ

J60

KIP

K46

S.B. Weston Ltd

Doro Tape

C60

Drytac Europe Ltd

M20

KTEC GROUP LABELS-U-PRINT

P74

DS Smith Recycling

L16

LASERITE LTD

G70

Shenzhen HongRiXing Energy Saving Light Technology Co., Ltd

Sign Directions March 2012 | 44

P108

M62

P90

P116 P4

Stand numbers subject to change

Sign Directions March 2012 | 45

sign & digital UK 2012 preview Printers

Agfa debuts two new machines

Hybrid offers heaps of new ideas

Agfa Graphics will feature two new additions to its extensive range of :Anapurna wide-format printers on Stand J30.

need for frequent user head replacement, plus a stunning fourpicolitre dot size, along with variable dot technology. The use of piezo heads further supports Mimaki’s environmental and sustainability credentials, with waste minimised and quality maintained throughout the printhead’s life.

Hybrid Services aims to make a real impression at Sign & Digital UK with the introduction of a complete new range of Mimaki wide format printers, inks and environmentally friendly solutions for the sign, display and graphic markets.

Visitors to Stand D10 will be able to see the new Mimaki JV400-130LX and JV400-160LX printers, which use the new Mimaki latex inks and which are the first machines to incorporate Mimaki’s new print engine. This innovation heralds the arrival of other new ink types, including Mimaki’s pioneering SUV ink, which will available shortly after the new latex machines.

Mimaki’s latex ink delivers significant advantages over alternative solutions, as it requires a very low heat to cure, increases the material options, consumes substantially less energy and thus minimises running costs. It is also the first latex solution to offer a white ink, which sits along side six process colours, to offer a vibrant yield and extended gamut. The Mimaki latex inks are quick drying and supplied in 600cc ink packs, which when used in conjunction with Mimaki’s eco-cases, reduce waste, while also facilitating long unattended print runs.

The 1.3m and 1.6m wide Mimaki JV400-LX printers feature a unique piezo print head, offering the usual advantages over alternative technologies, in so much as there is no

Sign Directions March 2012 | 46

The Mimaki latex ink is an aqueous, resin-based technology with proven eco friendly qualities and zero odour, making the machines ideal for installation in a wide range of locations.

Pre, print and post heaters, typically running below 60°C, in combination with built in drying fans aid the ink’s fast curing and, with no gassing off required; any post print lamination can take place immediately, thus shortening total job time. Combined with Mimaki’s class leading print speeds of up to 18m2/hr at 900 x 900dpi, the JV400-LX range delivers a compelling solution across a broad range of applications.

Available soon after the Mimaki latex range and using the same print engine is Mimaki’s unique SUV ink set.

Combining the flexibility of solvent with the durability of UV cured inks, SUV ink delivers a smooth, glossy result that is very durable and vibrant. It is designed for use on the new Mimaki JV400-130SUV and 160SUV models, which offer the same headline speeds and high print quality as the latex models. The ink’s exceptionally high durability comes from a unique ink recipe, whereby components of the ink key to the ink-receiving layer of the media. The surface of the ink is then cured using a UV process which results in a vibrant, durable and flexible finish making it ideal for use with banner production, pull ups and display materials and any application where a combination of vibrant colour and a

The new 2.54 x 1.54m :Anapurna M2540 FB, which will have its UK debut at the show, is designed to deliver exceptional value for money. A dedicated flatbed printer with a photo quality engine, it offers six colours plus a white ink option. All inks are quick drying, produce a wider colour gamut and are ideal for use upon a wide variety of materials. long lasting, scratch resistant print is required.

white, printing, thanks to the addition of two further ink channels.

Both new models in the JV400 family use Mimaki’s powerful and userfriendly RasterLink6 RIP, which enables the deposition of three layers of ink in one pass, including a base layer of white ink for printers that support the white ink option. The new software also offers an improved user interface, new Pantone colour matching and Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop integration.

The stand will also feature an innovative ‘Learning Zone’ which will be administered by key members of the Hybrid Services’ technical team in collaboration with invited professionals who have used Mimaki printing and print-and-cut solutions and who now wish to reveal the benefits gained by showing samples of the work they have carried out using Mimaki technology.

In addition, visitors will be able to learn more about the Mimaki TS500-1800 printer, which is billed as ‘the world’s fastest sublimation inkjet printer’ and the new Sb300 sublimation ink, which will be released in April, whilst also getting their first glimpse of the Mimaki UJF-3042HG flatbed printer, which brings even greater capability to desktop LED UV inkjet printing. The maximum height for printing materials has been expanded to 150mm, and it also benefits from six-colour, plus

Finally, and in keeping with the exhibition’s 25th Anniversary theme, visitors will have the opportunity to be photographed with Manchester United legends, Arthur Albiston and Lou Macari, with whom they will also be able to relive their footballing glory days of the late 1980s, and enter a competition to win two VIP tickets to a match at Old Trafford.

For further information, visit www.hybridservices.co.uk

Also showing for the first time in the UK will be the 2.05m :Anapurna M2050, which has quickly become a best seller amongst companies who require a highly cost-effective platform to produce top quality graphics. The eight-colour (CMYK Lc Lm, 2 x white) printheads cover virtually every possible application, including coloured or dark substrates. Eight, 12 picolitre heads guarantee printing of good solids, together with fine text reproduction as small as six point, good tonal rendering and low ink consumption. Users also benefit from

its UV-curable output and its ability to print direct onto 2 x 3m rigid and 2m wide flexible materials.

For further information visit: www.agfa.com

Océ launches new UV printer Océs new Arizona 318 GL UV flatbed printer, which is specifically designed to enable small print providers to enter the market for high-quality UV printing at an affordable price, will make its UK debut on Stand E10. In addition, the company will also show the ColorWave 600 poster printer that incorporates Océ’s CrystalPoint toner pearl technology and the Arizona 360 GT. In partnership with Zund Plotting Systems (UK), the latest Zund G3 L2500 digital cutting system will also be demonstrated on the stand.

For further information visit: www.oce.co.uk

Printers and images from PrintMAXX

Large-format printing solutions specialist provider PrintMAX will demonstrate a range of solutions from Roland DG on Stand F30, which will include the VersaUV, the VS and SP solvent-based printers and the LEJ-640 and LEF-12 platforms.

The company will also be presenting its istockMAX online image resource library and offering visitors the opportunity to win a FREE copy of istockMax on each day of the show.

For further information visit: www.printmax.co.uk

Sign Directions March 2012 | 47

sign & digital UK 2012 preview Printers

New Latex printers to be showcased by HP

On Stand J10, HP will demonstrate both the recently launched HP Designjet L28500 and the earlier HP Designjet L26500 Latex printers. Both printers incorporate the new HP Latex Designjet Inks that impart deeper and glossier colours. The complementary industrial-grade HP Scitex LX850 printer will also be shown.

media, the HP Scitex FB800 will be demonstrated, along with the HP Designjet Z6200 photographic-quality printer.

For further information visit: www.hp.com

New colour printer to be launched by Epson On Stand E70, Epson will launch its new SureColor C-S30600 64-inch four-colour printer, which is designed for more environmentally friendly print production and handles highvolume workloads via a print speed, contingent upon the printing mode, of between 7.3 to 29.4sq.m/hr, while also offering a very low cost of ownership.

Epson will also be showing its existing range of Stylus Pro large-format printers, including the 64-inch eightcolour GS6000 and 11880 and the 44inch 9700 machines. The Stylus Pro

GS6000, which has a maximum print resolution of 1440dpi, uses high-performance eight-colour UltraChrome GS ink technology to print at speeds of up to 25.2 sq.m/hr, while the 44 inch 9700 machine works with the five-colour UltraChrome Vivid Magenta aqueous inks, to offer a wider colour gamut and the Stylus Pro 11880 uses the UltraChrome KS VM inks incorporating Vivid Magenta and offers a maximum print speed of 35.4 sq.m/hr.

For further information, visit www.epson.com

A riot of colour from Granthams

For use on both rigid and flexible

Fujifilm to showcase the Acuity 1600 Fujifilm will showcase the latest Acuity LED 1600 UV printer together with its new XMF webto-print system on Stand H10.

A wide range of complementary Euromediabranded consumables will also be on display.

A combination of developed inks, printheads and LED-curing technology is said to enable the Acuity LED 1600 UV to deliver near photographicquality results

at impressive speeds. However, in spite of its high specification, it is an extremely easy-to-use and environmentally friendly solution for use with both rigid and flexible media.

For further information visit: www.fujifilm.co.uk/gs

specially

Sign Directions March 2012 | 48

On Stand P18, Granthams, the specialist provider of colour solutions to the sign and graphics, fine art and photographic markets, will be showing examples of largeformat solvent- and water-based printers from HP and Canon, as well as UV and print-and-cut solutions from Mimaki. These will be supplemented with a range of

cutting solutions from Graphtec and Mimaki.

Finishing systems to be demonstrated include trimmers and hot and coldprocess laminating systems from Drytac, EasyMount, KALA and Seal.

For further information visit: www.granthams.co.uk

Sign Directions March 2012 | 49

sign & digital UK 2012 preview Printers

Value-packed solutions from Roland DG On Stand G30, Roland DG will demonstrate examples from its wide range of market-leading printers and print-and-cut systems, and, within a dedicated section of the stand, the company will also highlight the benefits of its value-packed Roland Care warranty scheme.

Printers on display will include Roland’s first UV-LED flatbed printer (the VersaUV LEF-12, which is capable of printing onto two- and three-

dimensional objects, the VersaCAMM VS-640 metallic ink option, the very affordable desktop VersaSTUDIO BN-20 integrated print-and-cut solution and the Eco-Sol MAX system for optimal print utilisation.

In addition, visitors will be able to enjoy Roland’s legendary show hospitality in the on-stand café, where they can also sign up to the recently launched Roland DG Forum

(www.rolandforum.co.uk), which aims to bring customers together and provide an easily accessible commercial, technical and applications-based knowledge bank.

The café area will also feature videos and printed examples the winning

First showing for new Jetrix UV printer

Sign Directions March 2012 | 50

entries from Roland’s first global competition - the Roland Creative Awards.

For further information, visit: www.rolanddg.co.uk

DPI on a grand scale

The latest addition to the Jetrix family of UV printers will make its UK debut on the InkTec Europe stand, Stand K12. The Jetrix 2030 is said to be the fastest in the family of printers, with a production speed of 55 sq.m/hr. It features Light Cyan and Light Magenta in addition to White ink printing for striking graphic production at higher speeds. The printer also incorporates a primer function for printing onto traditionally difficult substrates, such as glass and metals.

The specialist reseller of grand-format printers, Digital Print Innovations will be demonstrating the latest wide and grand-format print technology via samples from solutions it has supplied and serviced on Stand H60.

These include the awardwinning Polytype Virtu RR50, the Polytype Quantum RS25/35, the Jetrix 2513FRQ and the new Jetrix 2030 UV platforms.

The Konica Minolta printheads incorporating the company’s proprietary UV inks can print text as small as 2pt, while the oversize flatbed will print two x three-metre sheets of material edge-to-edge.

A roll-to-roll option for flexible media is also available in order to extend the printer’s application capabilities.

DPI will also show samples from the new Novus Imaging Synergia H printer featuring the technically advanced Aquapoxy inks launched at last year’s SGIA event and the Seiko W64S, featuring eco-friendly iX inks.

The Mutoh Kona cutter and the KALA ARKANE 1400 laminator complete the DPI offering.

For further information, visit www.inktec-uk.co.uk

For further information, visit: www.dpi-ink.com

Sign Directions March 2012 | 51

sign & digital UK 2012 preview Printers

Colourgen to support reseller partners Once again based on the Mutoh stand (Stand H32), Colourgen will also be demonstrating its support for its main suppliers and reseller partners, which include Epson (Stand E70), DPI (Stand H62), Quality Print Services (Stand L8) and Tetenal (Stand F62).

including the new 1324/1624 ecofriendly and the TD series of direct-tofabric printers. In addition, visitors will be able to attend live demonstrations of Mutoh’s entire range of products and enigmatically, Colourgen has also hinted that a brand new printer will be launched at the show!

Mutoh and Colourgen will combine to showcase the latest ValueJet printers,

For further information visit: www.colourgen.com

new 1440dpi drop-on-demand printheads, water-based direct disperse inks for direct-to-substrate printing and offers a top speed of 41 sq.m/hr. The printers can also be used with Mutoh’s high-speed dye-

sublimation inks for transfer paper printing.

Mutoh offers new printers

In close collaboration with its key UK reseller Colourgen, Mutoh Belgium (Stand H32) will be showcasing its latest ValueJet printers, including the 1324/1624 eco-friendly and the TD direct-tofabric textile printers.

The ValueJet 1324 and 1624 printers, which offer respective print widths of 54 and 64 inches, incorporate new printheads and Mutoh’s awardwinning Intelligent Interweaving technologies, together with a maximum speed of 29 sq.m/hr. The TD textile printer series incorporates two

For further information visit: www.mutoh.eu

Get smart on textile printing RA Smart will be showcasing the latest developments in dyesublimation and direct-totextile printing solutions on Stand C22. These will include the full range of digital textile printers from Mimaki, including the

Sign Directions March 2012 | 52

latest TS34 180A platform and the new TS500-1800 dye-sublimation machine, which offers printing speeds of up to 150 sq.m/hr.

Other stand highlights will be the Transmatic range of flat and rotary heat presses, plus its new sonic cutting

and slitting technology, which features on everything from hand held systems up to 320cm machines capable of slitting media at speeds of up to 15m/min.

For further information visit: www.rasmart.co.uk

Sign Directions March 2012 | 53

sign & digital UK 2012 preview Cutting, Routing & Engraving

Cut straight to Tekcel Companies looking to cut, fold, carve or engrave all manner of sign and display materials, including metals, plastics and woods, should cut straight to Tekcel CNC Solutions on Stand L20, where the company will once again be demonstrating the latest advances in CNC routing and cutting technology.

Over the past 10 years, Tekcel has earned industry-wide recognition for its heavy duty CNC technology, rock solid reliability and overall customer satisfaction, which have been underlined by an industry award for innovation and membership of the British Sign and Graphics Association.

ITC offers tooling with longevity

industry standard bed sizes, Tekcel routers offer a wealth of class leading features, including powerful routing heads and cutting systems, digitallycontrolled servo motor technology and ball leadscrew drive systems on every axis, outstanding auto vacuum hold down systems and accurate auto tool length sensing as standard.

There are also a wide range of ‘must have’ options on offer, including Automatic Tool Changing, Cut to Print Camera Registration and a comprehensive solution for the so far unanswered demand for a heavy duty CNC router that also has the capability to deliver cutting and creasing across a wide range of digitally printed sheet and roll materials.

Available in a comprehensive range of

Visitors will also have the opportunity to evaluate some exciting new additions to Tekcel’s comprehensive range of high quality CNC router tooling that can be supplied next day to router owners throughout the UK and Ireland. Further, the company will be offering some exciting incentives for new customers to open tooling accounts and existing customers will

be offered additional savings when they place an order on the stand for the new cutters being showcased this year.

For further information visit: www.tekcelcnc.co.uk

the Z-axis. These are supplemented with a range of optional additional production tools, including a seven- or 21station automatic tool change and the latest AXYZ AVS camera registration systems, twin or triple cutting heads and an assortment of knife and drill tools.

Key design features include a heavyduty solid steel base and gantry, helical rack drive system with direct-drive servomotors and ball screw control on

AXYZ will also demonstrate the entrylevel CAMTECH Z7 CNC router that is available in a choice of two sizes. The multi-purpose machine is said to

Sign Directions March 2012 | 54

180 series of cutters and the 4071 series for machining foamed board, plastic, wood and MDF substrates.

Other new products include the addition of three flute cutters to the 2121 series of extra-long cutters for machining more difficult-to-reach surfaces.

Many of these problems have emanated from the use of cheap aluminium composite materials from Asia by small signmakers who are currently under extreme pressure from customers to reduce prices, but who, in consequence, are paying the cost of more frequent tool replacement.

For further information visit: www.itc-ltd.co.uk

In addition to this problem-solving tooling solution, ITC will be showing a number of other products. These include the 3061 series for machining steel, an extension of the market-leading

New highperformance router from AXYZ On Stand G38, AXYZ International will be showcasing the new Pacer series of high-performance CNC routers. Available in a choice of three sizes to meet different production requirements, the router represents an ideal upgrade for owners of Pacer machines now requiring a higher performance solution, but at a realistic price.

Known for its innovative products that meet changing market trends, Industrial Tooling Corporation (Stand M60) will be demonstrating a range of tooling solutions that effectively resolve problems with tool life, surface finish and longer production times.

Trotec to make its mark

incorporate design features normally associated with more expensive routers and is similarly available with a raft of optional production tools.

allocated to the company’s recently upgraded and expanded CNCRoutershop division.

Sourcing of new products from leading suppliers has enabled the facility to meet the requirements of virtually all users of routing and engraving technology, regardless of the make of machine.

Completing the AXYZ International presence will be an area of the stand

For further information, visit www.axyz.co.uk

Not surprisingly, laser engraving will take pride of place on the Trotec Laser Stand D10, where the machines on show will accommodate a wide range of applications, ranging from simple cut out lettering to fine-detail engraving.

Other stand highlights will include the Suregrave range of CNC engravers, which will be shown

running on industry-leading CADlink software and which will demonstrate their unique ability to deep-engrave a diverse range of materials, including metals.

Samples of Trotec’s large stock of engraving substrates,plus details of its new cut-to-service facility and the new 2012 product catalogue will also be available to visitors to the stand.

For further information, visit www.troteclaser.co.uk

Sign Directions March 2012 | 55

sign & digital UK 2012 preview Cutting, Routing & Engraving

Cutting perfected by Graphtec GB

On Stand G60, Graphtec GB will be demonstrating its flagship FC8000 and budget-priced CE5000 plotter/cutters, the recently launched Silhouette CAMEO desktop cutter and the new CSX500 full-colour imaging scanner that will be making its UK debut.

The company will also announce the imminent launch of a new label printer

and hopes to have an example available for the show.

Unprecedented accuracy and speed of production are guaranteed on all Graphtec cutters, due to the incorporation of the company’s proprietary ARMS 4.0 (Advanced Registration Mark System) facility. This uses four-point registration rather than the traditional three to greatly enhance the cutters’ capabilities.

The FC8000 is designed for use by companies with higher productivity levels and is described as the ‘fastest in class’ plotter/cutter currently available.

The budget-priced CE5000 machine offers many of the benefits of the FC8000 but is designed to help smaller companies grow via cutting technology without the need for a big up-front investment, a feature made even more attractive by the recent announcement of significant price reductions on selective Graphtec products.

The Silhouette CAMEO desktop cutter is a new and larger version of the popular Silhouette cutter, but now offers a number of advanced design

features.

These include a new cutting head to enable a more diverse range of materials to be processed via an extended 12-inch cutting width.

The new Graphtec CSX500 full-colour imaging scanner is available in a choice of three models. It is described as the fastest scanner in its class and is powered by Graphtec’s proprietary LUXIOS engine to enable high-speed, high-resolution and high-quality scanning via a very competitively priced solution.

For further information visit: www.graphtecgb.co.uk

ArtSystems and Summa show a united front In another joint initiative, ArtSystems and Summa will be demonstrating a range of cutting solutions on Stand L30, which will encompass the primary highperformance Summa F, the innovative DC4SX and the entrylevel Summa D60 series of machines.

Sign Directions March 2012 | 56

The joint stand will be manned by both ArtSystems and Summa product specialists, thus providing a unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy direct access to some of the most experienced wide format application experts in Europe.

For further information, visit www.artsystems.co.uk

Sign Directions March 2012 | 57

sign & digital UK 2012 preview Cutting, Routing & Engraving

Radecal gets radical Radecal Machine Sales and Service supply the full range of Roland's printing, cutting and engraving equipment and also offer a wide variety of other cutting solutions, including the Piranha CNC Routers and Laser Cutter/Engravers.

Now, following recently formed alliances with the German company Aristo and Techno from the USA, it will also be showing the new Aristo Multihead 2032 and Techno HDS ATC

machines on Stand H30. Visitors will also be able to examine the new Roland LEJ flatbed and EGX engraving machines, and in addition to Radcal’s own staff, representatives from the Roland team will also be on hand to provide any information required and to assist with product demonstrations.

For further information visit: www.radecalmachinesales.co.uk

Maxicam routing, minimum price!

Following its successful debut at last year’s show, Maxicam will this year be occupying a larger stand, where it will be introducing its new MAXI-C 1325 CNC Router, which is aimed specifically at users within the sign industry.

The MAXI-C 1325 router is an ideal machine for any sign shop as it is highly specified in its standard configuration, thus eliminating the need to purchase many costly extras.

Servo Motors, HSD Automatic Tool Change Spindle with a six position tool changer, a Vacuum Table, an Osai Numerical Controller with familiar Windows PC front end, and lubricated and sealed for life THK Linear rails and guide blocks. The router comes in three standard sizes 1300 x 2500mm, 1500 x 3000mm or 2000 x 4000mm.

Visit Maxicam on Stand C32

Sig Visi n t St & Di and git M al 60 UK a 20 t 12

For further information visit: www.maxicamuk.com

It comes as standard with Panasonic

Leopold shows new Fotoba cutter Designed to handle most flexible media up to a thickness of 0.8mm, the new XLD 170 cutter from Fotoba will be shown by Leopold on Stand G62.

The new machine incorporates Fotoba cut marks, which are embedded in all popular RIP programs and which ensure perfect alignment and precise cutting in the event of any media

Sign Directions March 2012 | 58

misalignment or failure by the printer to print parallel to the material edge.

The XLD 170 will handle a wide range of materials, including polycarbonate, photo paper, vinyl, Duratrans, TDF, canvas and laminated digital prints.

For further information, visit www.leopold.co.uk

Cutting it fine with Zund Following Its introduction of the G3 cutter range in 2008, the Zünd Cut Center Software in 2010, and the fully automatic Board Handling System in 2011, Zünd will be showing its new S3 cutter for the first time on Stand El0.

With a revolutionary direct-drive system, but featuring a smaller space-saving footprint, the S3 is built for speed and productivity at a highly competitive price. It is capable of processing a wide range of materials, including textiles,

vinyls, films, thinner plastics and cardboard, and offers ultra-fast Zand T-axis control.

When combined, these characteristics make the S3 the perfect all-round cutting system whose capabilities can be extended even further with creasing tools and a 300W router insert. Further it is supplied complete with Zund Cut Center, Zünd’s multiple award-winning design-to-cut software suite.

For further information visit: www.zund.co.uk

Sign Directions March 2012 | 59

sign & digital UK 2012 preview Materials

Innovative substrates from Antalis

Wrap and roll with William Smith Currently celebrating its 180th Anniversary, William Smith, which is showing on Stand E30, will demonstrate examples from its hardware and consumables divisions.

On the materials front, the company has assigned a special vehicle wrapping area where it will feature three workstations to enable visitors to gain hands-on experience of this technology using colour-change and digital printing films from 3M, Arlon and via iWilliam Smith’s own-brand solid-colour films range. Interactive demonstrations of the company’s range of window films will include the Contra Vision Performance range of

perforated films, 3M’s Clear View Graphic Film 8150 for graphic and decorative applications and a range of protection, privacy, safety and security films.

On the hardware front, there will also be interactive demonstrations of the RollsRoller Flatbed Applicator, which is widely acknowledged as the most accurate and cost-effective method of applying films and laminates to a wide range of substrates, and the latest HP Latex environmentally aware HP Designjet 28500 and 26500 printers.

Both machines incorporate the unique and patented HP Ink Technology, which has only a minimal VOC content, contains no hazardous

A comprehensive range of quality branded substrates used in sign and point-of-sale applications will be shown by Antalis McNaughton on Stand D40, including Kapa, FOREX, DIBOND, Dilite and Foamex.

chemical agents and thus requires no special fume extraction or ventilating equipment to enhance both its performance and cost-saving

capabilities.

For further information visit: www.williamsmith.co.uk

Sihl Direct UK makes its debut As a relative newcomer to the world of coated inkjet media, the recently formed specialist company Sihl Direct UK will make its debut on Stand C62.

Part of the Diatec Group of companies, it is already firmly

Sign Directions March 2012 | 60

established in the UK in respect of its branded media for wide-format inkjet printer and ink technologies ,which have previously been distributed via its OEM, distribution and reseller channels, and which are now also available direct from Sihl Direct’s new facility in Altrincham,

Cheshire. These include a wide variety of canvases, vinyls, films and photobase papers, which are ideal for use in high quality photographic and fine art applications.

The company welcomes both potential customers and resellers to

visit its stand in order to appreciate the full scope and value of its business.

In addition, the company will be showcasing a pan-European range of wide-format papers, self-adhesive materials, banners, textiles and wallpapers.

Other innovative substrates on display will include iPrint Pure 3D, a polypropylene material that provides 3D effects, YUPOTako, a material that sticks to flat surfaces without the need for an adhesive and Stafix, a staticcling film with dual application properties. The eco-friendly Antacote Light, a recyclable and PEFCaccredited material for hanging signage, will also be shown.

For further information visit: :www.antalis.co.uk

For further information visit: www.sihl-direct.co.uk

Sign Directions March 2012 | 61

Materials

Fabulous decorative films from Grafityp

A comprehensive selection of sign and graphics films from the popular Grafitack and Graficast ranges will be shown by Grafityp on Stand G10.

It includes the Automotive and Decorative films that are available in a range of special effects, including carbon fibre and simulated leather.

The GrafiPrint range of digital printing films, which includes the GrafiWrap vehicle wrap films, will also be shown, together with garment decoration

films from Siser in Italy.

The GrafiPrint films will be demonstrated on a range of printers and print-and-cut machines from Roland and Mutoh. Other hardware solutions on display on the stand will include heat presses for use with the range of garment decoration films, plus plotter/cutters and laser engraving machines from GCC. For further information, visit: www.grafityp.co.uk

A brighter perspective from Perspex On Stand L52, the latest Perspex Spectrum LED range of products will be showcased by Perspex Distribution.

Available in 11 standard colours, the range has been developed for signmakers and designers who want to impart more visual impact using transmitted and reflected light.

Sign Directions March 2012 | 62

Doro Tape the problem solver

Sharing the stand will be Multipanel UK, who will be demonstrating its latest range of Alupanel aluminium composite sheet products, including Alupanel Ultrawhite Digital and Alufoam, which are also available from Perspex Distribution.

For further information visit: www.perspex.co.uk and/or www.multipaneluk.com

Doro Tape will be welcoming visitors onto Stand B70 to demonstrate how they can use its wide variety of materials to help grow their businesses.

The company’s experienced staff will be on hand to provide information on Doro’s vast range of self-adhesive vinyl, films and associated products for the sign, graphic, display and retail markets and will also encourage visitors to discuss their most challenging requirements, so that the Doro Tape

team can use its wealth of expertise to successfully provide appropriate solutions.

Additionally, as a participant in Sign & Digital UK’s ‘Green Trail’, Doro Tape will be presenting a choice of ecologically friendly digital print media, including viable alternatives to gloss vinyl and PVC banners.

For further information visit: www.dorotape.co.uk

Sign Directions March 2012 | 63

sign & digital UK 2012 preview Sign and Display Systems

Materials

Trade Secrets

Many happy returns for Ritrama Ritrama UK, part of a family owned world-wide group of companies, will be celebrating its 30th anniversary at Sign & Digital UK, as well as the bi-centenary of the Ritrama group.

These, and further examples of Ritrama’s extensive Digital range including Ri-Jet 100 and Ri-Jet 75, together with complementary overlaminating films, can all be found on Stand K70.

The company will be showing its RiMark range that includes the cast Gemstone vinyl, with its sparkly metallic finish, which is suitable for the production of vehicle graphics and its Etch Glass materials, which are available in a wide choice of colours and finishes. These feature a solvent based adhesive and the option of Airflow on some products. In addition, visitors will also be able to see Ritrama’s O grade 400 series and L1000 series of opaque films.

For further information visit: www.ritrama.com

Another stand highlight will be the recently extended Ri-Wrap range that includes gloss, matt and highly specialised textured cast vinyl, which are available in 1.52m widths and feature Airflow technology, for use as both full and partial vehicle wraps. The Ri-Wrap range offers carbon fibre effect films, together with a selection of innovative textured products, such as ‘Mamba’ snake skin effect in three colours, as well as Brushed Silver and Gold, Ostrich Skin Orange and Space Invaders’ Red

Sign Directions March 2012 | 64

Trade Signs UK, a technology driven bespoke sign manufacturer, which specialises in 3D built up lettering, fabricated signage systems and flat cut letters, will be showing on Stand P56.

In addition to showing its wide portfolio of sign products, including its UV stabilised TradeFix sign locators,

I-SPI with my little eye

the company will also be using the event to inform visitors about its new order tracking system, which enables its customers to trace both the manufacturing process and delivery of their signs, as well as promoting its loyalty scheme which rewards regular customers with discount vouchers.

For further information visit: www.tradesigns.uk.com

New innovations from Profil

acrylic panel. All kits are packaged complete with everything required, including a small transformer.

On Stand M50 I-SPI Trade Supply will be showing its wide selection of sign fixings, cable & rod systems and LED lighting systems, all of which are priced extremely competitively for its trade-only customers.

Stand attractions will include the new SIGNALITE range, which comprises a set of either two or four, satin aluminium sign fixings, each of which features a ring of LED that provides instant and intense illumination when the fixings are used on a standard

Visitors will also be able to see the company’s best selling stand off sign fixings, which form part of its CN range, and which are manufactured from a coated brass material, together with its more economically priced CA range, which is crafted from aluminium.

For further information visit: www.ipsitradestore.com

Profil Tensioning Systems supplies its own patented tensioning system for use with all types of soft signage applications.

On Stand J72 it will be launching its latest innovation in the form of ‘Easy Corner, a moulded plastic corner that holds a silicone edge profile frame, thus greatly reducing the amount of metalwork required.

corporate interior and retail sectors, it features a small, but very powerful magnet, thus enabling the frame to be hung to a metal surface or metal plates and easily removed when desired, so that the graphic can be speedily changed, without the need for specialist assistance. In addition, Easy Corner can also be used with more traditional fixing methods if required.

Ideally suited for use in a wide range of applications in the

For further information visit: www.profil-ts.co.uk

Sign Directions March 2012 | 65

sign & digital UK 2012 preview Sign & Display Systems

The Sign Group seeks to inspire

LED-inspired displays from Fairfield

The Sign Group, who produces sign trays, built up letters and print, also specialises in the provision of bespoke signage solutions for its trade customers. enhanced to enable signmakers to be more creative.

The latest developments in LEDinspired illuminated signs and displays will be demonstrated by Fairfield Displays & Lighting on Stand K60.

The LED Light Pocket suspended illuminated double-sided poster display system has been expanded with the introduction of a new design, while the Info Post directional and information systems have been

Fairfield will also launch a new range of suspended digital sign and display systems, which facilitate the suspension of a digital screen from a pair of suspended rods situated between the floor and the ceiling to

ensure the screen’s exact positioning.

No power supply is visible, since this is conveyed within the suspension rods to create a more aesthetically appealing installation.

For further information visit: www.fairfielddisplays.co.uk

Welcome return for Insight Making a welcome return to Sign & Digital UK, Insight Sign Systems (Stand P58) will be demonstrating its new HaloLight, Spectra Speedfab and Highlight HV extruded aluminium sign systems.

An accent border light system, HaloLight can be installed on the façade of a variety of retail premises to emit a neon-like warm glow via the use of luminescent LED modules. Highlight HV complements the existing Highlight Mk4 and Eco-Star troughlighting systems, but is distinguishable by what is considered to be the slimmest

Sign Directions March 2012 | 66

As well as developing and sourcing the materials or construction methods that are best suited to a client’s specific requirements, it is equally happy to produce both standard signage and more unusual and challenging visual concepts in line with a client’s own brief. It will be using the show to demonstrate to visitors how it uses an eclectic mix of design skills, substrates and manufacturing expertise to create something that is truly inspiring and hopes that signmakers will go away with lots of new ideas, which they in turn, will be able to discuss with their clients.

Visit The Sign Group on Stand B40.

For further information www.thesigngroup.co.uk

visit:

profile currently available at just 70 x 60mm.

Offering an alternative solution to folded aluminium panels but without the need for a large guillotine and brake press to cut the panels, Spectra Speedfab is a framed aluminium system with no visible fixings that can be installed with ready-inserted panels to enable a saving in installation time of up to 50 percent by comparison with the folded aluminium panel alternative.

For further information, visit www.insightsystems.com

Sign Directions March 2012 | 67

sign & digital UK 2012 preview Sign & Display Systems

Eat, drink and visit Signwaves!

Signwaves returns for the eighth year running and will be showing its vast range of pavement signs, poster displays, flags, banners and much more besides on Stand N30, which is conveniently situated next to the restaurant!

All of these products will be on display, including new snapframe finishes, GripChalkers, Brochure Island Stands and Portland Menustands.

Play a blinder with DISQ

In addition, all visitors will receive a free pack of unbranded marketing material, including brochures, flyers and showroom posters and those who place an order at the show will also be rewarded with a free iFrame, which will enable them to insert the complete, unbranded, online Signwaves catalogue into their website.

For further information visit: www.signwaves.co.uk

Sign & Digital UK will see the launch of a new initiative – a trinity of leading British visual display businesses uniting under one banner to offer a much broader collective portfolio whilst simultaneously unlocking a significantly wider network of market opportunities.

The scheme is branded as DISQ – a memorable acronym that encompasses display, innovation, service and quality and aims to provide an exceptional and far-reaching new service for the UK visual communications market..

DISQ will develop innovative routes to market that fully exploit its members’ strengths. Eurostand Display, Eve Products and Promotor Industries International are the founder members of the initiative. Each is already a wellestablished business in its own right, but by pooling its significant resources, the trio aims to provide trade customers with unrivalled experience, first class technical support and access to the largest product range in the industry.

manufacturer of exhibition and display equipment, particularly with its linked roller banners. The company is also notably famous for designing the revolutionary Twist modular display system.

Promotor Industries International is a leader in the design and production of portable demonstration and promotional in-store sampling display stands.

Eurostand Display supplies modular exhibition solutions and indoor and outdoor display products, including pop ups, roll ups and eco-friendly hardware. Its extensive customer base and policy of constant product innovation has helped the business to enjoy strong growth since it began trading eight years ago.

Discover the collective benefits of DISQ on Stand J60.

For further information, visit www.eurostanddisplay.com or www.disgroup.com

Eve Products is a leading designer and

Sign Directions March 2012 | 68

Sign Directions March 2012 | 69

sign & digital UK 2012 preview Software

Lighting

Enlightened Applelec

Shuttleworth ups the ante A leading provider of MIS (Management Information Systems) solutions to the sign and display sectors, Shuttleworth will be showing the latest developments to its MIS package that are designed to enhance the business management capabilities of its clients.

Delivery (POD) module.

On Stand P52 visitors will be able to see a new user interface which is designed to speed up access to information and a sign and display industry-specific Electronic Proof of

Described as a sign industry ‘first’, the latest Supply Chain Management software program will also be demonstrated. This is a web-based tool designed to enable companies to

Making MIS easy with Clarity

On Stand M10 Clarity Software will be demonstrating the new and superefficient Clarity Professional v4.1 package, which enables users to utilise the enhanced Job Costing and Cost Analysis functionality in order properly assess true job margins.

Visitors to the stand will also be able to see the new Clarity Professional module, which is used in conjunction

Sign Directions March 2012 | 70

quickly access prices from suppliers in order to respond more speedily to customer requirements.

For further information, visit www.shuttleworth-uk.co.uk

Delcam shapes up with an iPhone or Android app and which can save the hours in administration required at project installation and delivery stage.

Clarity Software is the home of Clarity Professional, a leading MIS and CRM software package used by over 3,500 sign, digital print and graphic display companies.

A specialist in LED lighting solutions, Applelec (Stand N50) will demonstrate key products from its expanding portfolio.

In addition, the company will also be demonstrating Clarity Marketing, its ground-breaking cloud-based e-marketing system that dynamically links with Clarity Professional MIS to make highlyprofiled target list building faster and easier than ever before.

Visitors can collect a FREE TRIAL version of Clarity Professional MIS, which can be installed at a time of their choosing and all new purchasers of the software can also benefit from free training worth £250.

For further information visit: www.clarity-software.com

These include an Automated Return Shaper to drastically reduce the time spent on the production of built-up metal letters, the widely specified LED Light Sheet solution and the new Enlighten poster system that uses this product for illumination.

The Automated Return Shaper will now deliver precision-formed returns of 20120mm in a matter of seconds to cut production time and accelerate turnaround on orders. LED Light Sheet can now be used as part of a new curved design concept to enable the

production of curved light boxes with a narrow profile of just 30mm.

The product is also a key element of the new smart Enlighten illuminated poster frame system that is designed to deliver greater customer engagement via close-proximity marketing using NFC (Near Field Communication) and QR codes. The system, which has been constructed in acrylic to give the appearance and feel of glass, is designed to display backlit media.

For further information, visit www.applelecsigns.co.uk

A brighter future with Bright Green Delcam Plc, will use the occasion of the show to demonstrate ArtCAM Insignia, its new introductory 3D modelling and machining package, on Stand K34.

ArtCAM Insignia 2011 R2 enables signmakers to design and machine 2D signage, such as cut out, inlaid or v-bit carved signs, as well as stunning 3D signage, thanks to the incorporation of the 3D modelling functionality from its big brother software, ArtCAM Pro. With ArtCAM Insignia, signmakers can simply double-click on a specific colour of a bitmap image, or a selected vector and instantly create a 3D shape to their preferred shape profile, angle and height. This can also be combined

with any 3D relief that has already been created.

Alternatively, they can select a number of open vectors to represent the edges and cross sections of their 3D relief to create 3D sweep shapes. Blemishes from imported 3D models or adjoining areas can then be smoothed out, or further embellishments added, such as textures, for sign backgrounds or face profiles.

For further information visit: www.artcam.com.

On Stand P34, Bright Green Technology will launch its Bright Green Direct initiative, which provides customers with a new way of accessing its range of LED lighting solutions. consumption by up to 80 percent.

Key products in the Bright Green Technology range include Bright Green Matrix (a modular LED system for backlighting signs and displays), Bright Green LED Light Panel (a slimmer system for illuminating signs and displays) and Bright Green Trough Light, a LED-powered down lighter that typically reduces energy

The range of Bright Green Lite Tools (including power supplies, LED tape, LED dimming systems and linear PCB modules) will also be shown.

For further information, visit www.brightgreentech nology.com

Sign Directions March 2012 | 71

sign & digital UK 2012 preview Miscellaneous

Drytac in at the finish

Wyzrds at a fair clip Mounting twin-flute signs on an upright support has, in the past, proved problematical, but now, Wyzrds has introduced its Laminaid TF clip as reputedly the first device to resolve this problem.

On Stand P84 the company will demonstrate both this and the new

Laminaid XL clip that has been designed for use with lightweight boards up to a thickness of 10mm, as an advancement of the TF clip that caters for boards with a thickness of between four and six millimetres.

This latest clip is again based on a plastic back plate that can be easily cable-tied to an upright support, with the clip functioning via a set of barbed nylon rivets that are manually depressed into the back plate of the

sign, thus providing a more professional appearance by comparison with previous methods of assembly.

For further information, visit www.wyzrds.com

Mida reaches new heights Specialist sign and graphics installation contractor, Mida Sign Services will demonstrate its expertise and safe working practices for both one-off and major re-branding projects on Stand G64.

Significantly, the company now holds the prestigious Safe Contractor certification for health and safety and site procedures to further enhance its capabilities in the safe use of access equipment and scaffolding.

Each of its installation crews are fully

trained and fully equipped to undertake the most daunting sign installation requirements likely to be encountered.

With over 28 years of experience in, and knowledge of, the sign and graphics industry, Mida Sign Services is one of the longest serving and most reliable installation contractors around.

For further information visit: www.midasignservices.co.uk

The company will also demonstrate the new JetMounter Fuzion 63 wideformat laminator and the AFC1600 SmartCoater aqueous-based coater.

For further information, visit www.drytac.com

The suppliers of dye sublimation technology, Nova Chrome UK will be exhibiting on Stand D32, where it will be showing a selection of Epson and Ricoh inkjet printers using sublimation inks.

The company will be running demonstrations during the course of the show , which will enable visitors to see how easily the dye sublimation process can be used to personalise all manner of promotional items, ranging from mugs and mouse mats to silver

awards and metal and glass photo holders.

For further information visit: www.novachrome.co.uk

Saw it with Zakput

In addition to its core business, Mida Sign Services now also offers a comprehensive digital printing facility for the production of full-colour vinyl graphics and direct-to-substrate hoardings and billboards for its trade customers.

Colorific shows alternative ink options

Colorific, a leading European supplier of high quality, alternative inks, will be demonstrating its range of costeffective ink solutions on Stand P130.

Regardless of printer model and application, Colorific has a costeffective, high quality, alternative ink to meet every requirement and is so confident of the quality of its ink range that it is now offering a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee across its

Sign Directions March 2012 | 72

On Stand M20, Drytac Europe will be demonstrating a wide range of mounting and laminating solutions for graphic finishing. New additions to the company’s UKmanufactured overlaminates include the seven year-rated Weathershield and three year-rated Interlam products.

Add value with Nova Chrome

Mimaki and Roland range of ink solutions.

The Colorific portfolio of ink solutions now encompasses the majority of wide format printers currently in use today and its inks are distributed across the globe by a number of leading companies including PaperlinX/Robert Horne Group.

For further information visit: www.colorificink.com

On Stand P70 Zapkut will be showing its ZK and ZM ranges of vertical saws, which enable companies to cut on site with the minimum of fuss, whilst also reducing their costs.

The ZK range of saws offers a compact, go-anywhere solution, which is ideal for use in smaller workshops. ZK units, which can be deployed and folded away compactly in seconds, support cross and rip cutting and can process harder, thicker materials, such as Dibond and 10mm acrylic with ease.

The ZM range is a highly compact and economically-priced moving column vertical panel saw, which is built on a robust steel frame and offers plunge and bevel capabilities, rapid switching between cross and rip cutting, and impressive accuracy.

Both ZK and ZM saws are available in a range of sizes, catering for all popular sheet dimensions, including 3m x 2m foam board and acrylic.

For further information visit: www.zakput.co.uk

Sign Directions March 2012 | 73

The Sign Directions Market Place

sign & digital UK 2012 preview

classified

Miscellaneous

Personalise with Listawood ARTWORKER/PREPRESS OPERATOR. PACKAGE: BASIC £25 – 35K.

A leading supplier of blank products, printing equipment and consumables for use in conjunction with d y e sublimation

printing, Listawood will be showing items from its extensive range, together with some new additions on Stand M70.

Products on display will include Listawood’s exclusive Duraglaze PhotoMug, which is 100 percent

dishwasher proof and the AntiBug PhotoMug, which features a patent protected treatment that is proven to kill 99.9 percent of all harmful bacteria.

New product additions will include a selection of iPhone and iPad cases, along with a variety of lens cloths suitable for use on a wide array of items, such as mobile phones and tablets.

In addition, Listawood’s highly trained staff will be on hand during the course of the show to provide help and advice on all aspects of the dye sublimation process.

DIGITAL PRINT GRAPHICS.

SOUTH.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER. INTERACTIVE COMMUNICATIONS & DISPLAY. PACKAGE: BASIC £30 – 35K, COMMISSION & CAR/CAR ALLOWANCE. SOUTH EAST. BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER. DIGITAL PRINT GRAPHICS. PACKAGE: £25 – 30K, COMMISSION & CAR/CAR ALLOWANCE.

SOUTH EAST

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER. DIGITAL PRINT GRAPHICS. PACKAGE: £25 – 30K, COMMISSION & CAR/CAR ALLOWANCE.

SOUTH

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER. CORPORATE SIGNAGE PACKAGE: BASIC £30 – 35K, COMMISSION & CAR/CAR ALLOWANCE

MIDLANDS

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER. ARCHITECTURAL SIGNAGE PACKAGE: BASIC £30 – 35K, COMMISSION & CAR/CAR ALLOWANCE

SOUTH EAST

PRODUCTION MANAGER. CORPORATE SIGNAGE. PACKAGE: BASIC £30 – 35K & CAR/CAR ALLOWANCE

NORTH

ACCOUNT MANAGER. VISUAL MERCHANDISING & DISPLAY. PACKAGE: BASIC: £25 – 35K, BONUS & CAR/CAR ALLOWANCE

SOUTH EAST

SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER. CORPORATE SIGNAGE. PACKAGE: BASIC £40 – 45K & CAR/CAR ALLOWANCE

SOUTH

PROJECT MANAGER. CORPORATE SIGNAGE. PACKAGE: 6 MONTHS CONTRACT. NEGOTIABLE RATES

SOUTH

To find out more about any of these, or the numerous other vacancies we are currently handling, contact us now on 01275 855 105 or forward us a copy of your C.V. to: info@pyramidresourcing.com

For further information visit: www.listawood.com

Get the magic touch!

TheMagicTouch will be using the show to introduce a new additional range of transfer flex products to its existing MagiCut textile vinyl range on Stand N12.

The newly developed ‘123Flex’ has unique properties enabling quick and consistent production, including excellent cutting and weeding, a three second application time and hot peel release.

The 123Flex can also be applied at a lower temperature with variable dwell times to assist in combating the scorching effect common to many textiles and fabrics when applied at 160c and above. The PU coated product has outstanding opacity and washability and is

Sign Directions March 2012 | 74

available at very competitive pricing per 5m, 10m and 25m rolls. The initial offering will consist of 20 vibrant colours including five neon versions.

In addition to the new 123Flex, TheMagicTouch will be showing two new plotters. The Graphtec Cameo A3 plotter/cutter complete with ‘Print & Cut’ software offers an entrylevel option for less than £300 including VAT. Also available is the new MagiCut 720 (600mm) plotter for production cutting of all flex, flock, and glitter, pearl and reflective products, which is also competitively priced.

For further information visit: www.themagictouch.co.uk

Sign Directions March 2012 | 75

signdirectory

sign directory

The Sign Industry's Who's Who

DIGITAL PRINT SYSTEMS

LED SPECIALISTS

MATERIAL SUPPLIERS

MOULDED/FLAT-CUT LETTERS

SCREEN PRINTING

HUMPHREYS SIGNS LTD. Unit 6, Spencer Trading Estate Denbigh, N. Wales LL16 5TQ Tel: 01745 814066 Fax: 01745 815374 Email: sales@humphreyssigns.co.uk Web: www.humphreys-signs.co.uk Trade Printers for over 30 years.

Estate Agents board specialists.

Printing on Correx, PVC Vinyl, Magnetics, as well as digital printing.

Large or small runs.

FLAT CUT LETTERS

FLEXIBLE FACE SIGNS

MANUFACTURERS OF MAGNETIC MATERIALS

CNC ROUTERS & CUTTERS

PERSPEX DISTRIBUTION LTD • Perspex® cast & extruded acrylic • Bencore® Composite • Polycarbonate • APET & PETG • Alupanel® Aluminium Composite • Foamed PVC • Rigid PVC • Polystyrene • Rod & Tube • Adhesives Full stock holding capability, bespoke colour matching and a cut-to-size service available plus standard next day delivery.

For immediate response please contact your regional sales and service centre.

North - Blackburn T. 01254 272800 Midlands - Tamworth T. 01827 263900 South - Chelmsford T. 01245 232800 www.perspex.co.uk

SIGNMAKERS

PROLICHT UK LIMITED 14, Spire Green Centre Flex Meadow, Pinnacles West Harlow, Essex CM19 5TR

ATA Engineering Processes Complete Routing Solutions

CNC Routers

Router Cutters

Router Cutters

BUTTERFIELD SIGNS LTD. 174 Sunbridge Road, Bradford West Yorkshire BD1 2RZ Tel: 01274 722244 Fax: 01274 848998 Email: general@butterfieldsigns.co.uk Web: www.butterfieldsigns.co.uk General signmaker offering Project Management and Sign Design.

Specialist in Neon, Illuminated Signs and Maintenance.

Tel 01442 264411 • Fax 01442 231383

Tel: 0844 412 2230 Fax: 0844 412 2231 Email: ukhelp@prolicht.com Web: www.prolicht.com Europe’s leading Corporate Identity Sign Designers and Manufacturers.

At ProLicht corporate design is turned into reality. Our commitment starts at the design and development stage and continues through prototyping, production, project management & installation throughout Europe. Contact our UK office for advice and assistance.

Email sales@ataeng.com

SIGN SYSTEMS SIGN MAKING SUPPLIERS

BENSON SIGNS 96 - 98 Great Howard Street Liverpool L3 7AX Tel: 0151 298 1567 Fax: 0151 298 1568 Email: info@benson-signs.co.uk Web: www.benson-signs.co.uk Design and manufacture of all types of signs, combining traditional skills with the latest technology, providing pub, hotel and retail sectors with a full installation and maintenance service, now incorporating wide format full colour printing on banners and signs as well as electronic digital displays and directory systems.

Nationwide Service.

Sign Directions March 2012 | 76

Sign Directions March 2012 | 77

the last word This month, Mark Godden suggests that signmakers…

Forget about the width and feel the quality I’m climbing out of my shell-cratered foxhole this month and, with our beloved Editor’s aid, I’m climbing onto my soapbox so I can make the case for quality, a cause that has been endlessly intellectualised by the business press.

Quality management schemes have been born, fanatically promoted and dropped like hot bricks when the new scheme-of-the-day takes the stage for its limited season. Despite the cyclical nature of the schemes that purport to manage quality, quality itself in its intrinsic nature, endures and survives them all. So do the companies that drive quality at a practical level to the core of their businesses.

Taken at its most superficial, we tend to think of things that fail in the role intended for them as being of poor quality. It’s fair to argue also, that people who knowingly press products into roles beyond those products’ design limits are hewn from poor quality stuff too. I see lots of evidence supporting this.

I live in France and I see a surprising amount of failed material in the great outdoors here. I’m talking about cut and applied vinyl in the main. What exactly am I seeing though? I don’t know for sure, so I’ll have to speculate from a couple of viewpoints.

Firstly, let’s examine the mode of failure.

No doubt at all about that. What I routinely observe is lettering where the vinyl has split at points of stress concentration, inside sharp corners in other words. The failure propagates from the origin, through the material, often splitting into other sub-failures. It looks terrible.

Because we have brutal summers and winters here, outdoor signs get punished. Good material though, good quality material that is, should easily stay the distance. What I’m seeing then, might be a spectacular and widespread failure of material. It might be sold and marketed as a quality product for exterior application, but some error in manufacturing might have corrupted its chemistry and so it fails. Attention to Sign Directions March 2012 | 78

quality on the part of the manufacturer would certainly stamp on the issue at source.

But to me, it seems more likely that someone has run his finger down the pricing column in his supplier’s price list, and bought the cheapest material he can find to do the job. Cut it out.

Weeded it. Smacked it up and moved on. One summer and winter later, and the job’s not looking so good. Another summer and it has broken down completely. That’s one sign company that will not be doing business with a particular sign buyer again, or doing business at all in time.

In the UK there are markedly fewer failures of this type, despite the density and quantity of exterior signing. Sure, the climate is more benign, but I also think that there’s a greater degree of risk aversion among small companies. I’ve also had it explained to me, at length, by various industry practitioners, that the risk is just not worth the marginal saving that can be made by using material a few rungs down the evolutionary ladder, or things not wearing a leading brand’s badge.

And I can only agree with this sentiment.

I recall once visiting a small UK signmaker who was particularly proud of a job he was doing for an airline. The exact details are a little dim, but the gist of it is that he was getting quite an impressive amount of money, certainly in the hundreds of pounds, for every square metre of stickers he was selling.

He was especially proud of the fact the material he was using had only cost him about a pound a square metre. I asked if he thought he could get an extra four pounds per square metre from his customer and, when he said he could, I explained that it could be used to support the cost of better material and also to give him a better night’s sleep

into the bargain.

And there’s the point made. It costs so very little to take the quality option, yet it gives so much back in terms of repeat business, customers satisfaction and peace of mind. Today, that’s more important than it has ever been.

Today’s market is more demanding of quality than ever before.

Here’s why.

For a start, more of the work we produce is printed. There are more ways for printed output to fail than there are for simple cut and applied jobs. Ink makes big demands of media. The consequences of using something inappropriate are disastrous. Image quality immediately gives the game away but that’s only the start. All manner of visible artefacts can disclose poor drying or marginal acceptance of ink and all contribute to output on a career path to failure.

So, there are technical matters to consider. Printed output is also a lot easier for the end-user to criticise. Poor colour fidelity, for example, is a lot more obvious to lay people than some sort of typographical subtlety that may be lacking in an old-school sign.

A third component to consider is the customer’s choice. No signmaker or printer I know is without competition and lots of it. Yes, everyone must be competitive, but nobody is going to come back for a repeat experience if it’s a bad one. Also worth remembering is that word-of-mouth travels a lot faster when it’s voicing a negative sentiment that’s pouring out with venom.

I know companies in the material manufacturing business that sell to quality and generally take the view that

the best part of the market to deal with is the part that subscribes to something very simple, but incredibly potent, and it’s this: You can pay a little less, or you can pay a whole lot more, but either way, you’re not going to get the repeatable returns you get when you pay a fair price, for a technically advanced material that always has worked and always will.

I don’t subscribe much to homespun philosophy, but that really resonates with me. The knowledge that a job has been done well and that the only comeback is likely to be a call for more of the same, is something that is almost beyond price. When you consider the paltry saving that’s made by putting a foot the other side of the quality line, and the consequences that lie in wait, is it really worth it?

Absolutely not!

I’d like to point out to all the quality gurus out there that I am also on board where formal quality is concerned. I fly a lot and I do appreciate that it’s more than just the laws of physics that keep me in the air and all that hardware working. I do, however, feel that quality has to appeal at a much more fundamental level altogether. It is, all said and done, a question of choices in many cases. Make the right choices and much of the risk and uncertainty just evaporates. Always trust the quality options and the dividend more than repays the premium.

At today’s interest rates, there’s arguably no better investment than that of a company that takes care of its customers and is around for the long haul.

Mark Godden mark.godden@me.com