Quick Print Pro, February 2023

Quick Print Pro

Quick Print Pro

CONTACT

Quick Print Pro, Colourfast Group Ltd

36 Cheltenham Place, Brighton. BN1 4AB

Tel: 01273 674321

Email: editor@quickprintpro.co.uk

Web: www.quickprintpro.co.uk

EDITORIAL

Marina Peirce

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Nyree Groome

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER

Maureen Foulkes

CONTRIBUTORS

Lara Groome, Andrew Foulkes, Rebecca Leach and Dan Tester.

FEATURES

Peter Foulkes

DIGITAL IMAGING & PHOTOGRAPHY

Martin Christie

MAGAZINE PRODUCTION

Dean Cook www.magazineproduction.com

DISTRIBUTION

Subscriptions printed at Colourfast plus PYO (Print Your Own) file distribution and eZine available on Issuu

One day my Printz will come

The company dawg is planning a tidy up in February, an early spring clean. But where to start? Not at the groomer’s thanks, but in our print shop’s social media, website and newsletters. Any later than now we will be too busy printing the expected spring boom into summer. Too early? Well if you don’t plan it won’t happen.

P.S. Don’t forget Valentine’s day. x Printz, Getting Organised, Foulkes

Quick Print Pro (QPP) — ISSN: 2050-5140 — is published monthly by Colourfast Group Limited, 36 Cheltenham Place, Brighton. BN1 4AB. A company registered in England Number: 2517164.

Sign-up for free to our newsletter and discover all the latest news in print, upcoming events, special offers, new product launches and innovative trade and end-user campaigns. Just visit: www.quickprintpro.co.uk

The law on workplace pensions has changed and every employer in the UK must put certain staff into a pension scheme and contribute towards it.

This is called ‘automatic enrolment’.

It’s important that you understand what you need to do — and when you need to do it. This will depend on your circumstances and those of your employees. To work out what you need to do and when you need to do it contact our auto enrolment scheme advisers on:

0800 132100 or email alan.hudson@meridan.co.uk

Help

Meridan Financial LLP is the appointed advisers for the Printing Industry Pension Scheme (PIPS) and are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Not all Auto Enrolment services are regulated by the FCA.

BRUMMIE PRINTER WINS INTERNATIONAL AWARD

the environmental impact, using smaller amounts of ink, not trimming the sheets, putting a poster on the back so it could be kept instead of thrown away, and sealing the sides with self-adhesive stickers instead of using a throw away envelope.

Adding metallic silver, metallic gold, white and clear inks throughout the mailer (in particular he impact section and poster), personalisation and premium Fedrigoni Sirio Color Perla paper stock allowed them to showcase the capabilities of modern digital printing.

The final element was for it to be hand finished, folded by hand and sealed with printed and perforated self-adhesive stickers, ensuring it stayed together through the postal service, whilst not adding envelope wastage.

WHY THEY WON!

based printers, Clarkeprint, wowed judges at the Xerox Best of the Best Awards, scooping up the top prize in the ‘Self Promotion’ category for their innovative and unique “Less Waste, More Impact” mailer and give away.

The Xerox Best of the Best Awards is a Worldwide competition in which Xerox aims to celebrate Xerox Graphic Communications customers who best utilise its production technology to champion the fusion and passion of print.

MAKE LESS WASTE, CREATE MORE IMPACT

Conceptualised, developed, copywritten, designed, printed, finished and mailed in-house, the “Less Waste, More Impact” mailer was created by Clarkeprint to persuade marketers and creatives to carry out smaller, more targeted print runs to reduce waste, whilst also increasing the design

They recognised that marketing department cupboards are always full of out of date brochures and flyers, as more are ordered than are often needed. This is the waste that they want to avoid. Modern digital printing methods mean that smaller runs can be printed to ensure that there is less waste, whilst quick turnarounds ensure stock can be replenished swiftly!

Modern digital printing methods also allow marketers to upgrade the specification of their print using additions such as metallic (silver, gold and colourful metallic hues), clear and white inks, a cost effective way to increase impact. If budgets allow, choosing premium and environmentally friendly papers can add that extra quality and sense of touch.

A SELF-MAILER WITH ZERO-WASTE

Clarkeprint thought of everything when reducing

“We were hugely impressed by the calibre of entries for Xerox’s Best of Best Awards 2022 and are delighted to celebrate this year’s winners,” said Tracey Koziol, Senior Vice President, Global Offerings Solutions at Xerox. “Together with our partners, we can continue to deliver outstanding levels of creativity and drive business success.” The judges commented: “We love how they incorporated lots of Iridesse value propositions into one thoughtfully designed and sustainably produce piece! The gold and silver look sharp on that muted stock, and I like the zero waste aspect.”

Nigel Clarke, Director at Clarkeprint added “I’m so pleased that the judges understood our approach to the mailer, and that the team’s efforts have been acknowledged. To receive such prestigious recognition for what, at first glance, appears to be a relatively simple mailer just goes to show what a well thought out and well executed project it is.” www.clarkeprint.co.uk

NEW VANGUARD UV FLATBED PRINTER CHANNEL

ArtSystems, the Nottingham based specialist systems distributor and service provider, has appointed Diatec, Papergraphics, Pyramid Display Materials and SEDO — Large Format Solutions as the new Vanguard Europe partners.

On the announcement, ArtSystems’ Technical Director Mark Lambert says: “We’re extremely pleased to be able to announce such an excellent set of companies to join us in bringing the Vanguard family of printers to Britain and Ireland. Each company has a superb reputation for service, applications knowledge, and a driving desire to get the best solution for their customers.”

The Vanguard range of flatbed UV printers, which are designed in the US and assembled in Europe, represents the latest in sustainable print hardware, with low cost upgradability in the field enabling users to extend their printer life and capability.

The range offers six colours (including Lcyan, Lmagenta) plus white ink and varnish alongside an advanced media handling feature to maximise productivity.

Diatec will address the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland markets whilst Papergraphics, Pyramid Display Materials and SEDO — Large Format Solutions will have responsibility for England, Wales and Scotland.

All four partners will be running open days and product briefings for their customers this year. Details will be announced shortly.

Vanguard Europe is a subsidiary of Vanguard Digital Printing Systems Corp, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, US, that produces 200 systems a year. Vanguard was acquired by Durst Group in 2020. European staff are now based adjacent to the headquarters of Durst Group in Brixen, Italy, in the 5,300 square metre ‘Kraftwerk’ premises, which was officially opened in September.

Peter Bray, Managing Director of Durst UK & Ireland, says: “It’s great to see the completion of the reseller network. We are looking forward to working with this team in the coming months and years.”

For more information, please contact John Draycott Marketing Manager, ArtSystems john. draycott@artsystems.co.uk www.artsystems.co.uk

SOLOPRESS £600,000 BINDERY INVESTMENT WITH IFS

A raft of IFS supplied Horizon finishing systems, supported by iCE software, have been chosen by Solopress to future proof operations. £600,000 investment in a BQ500 iCE Perfect Binder, an HT300 iCE Three Side Trimmer, a StitchLiner Mark III and two AFV-566FKT iCE Folders will expand capacity and help production meet expected growth plans.

The Southend-on-Sea company was founded in 1999 through informal collaboration between two start ups. It produces a wide range of commercial print including leaflets, flyers and brochures mainly for small businesses. During the pandemic Solopress invested in its print production equipment. That included a new Heidelberg XL106 litho press and an Indigo 100K digital press. They joined three Heidelberg XL75 litho presses two Indigo 10000s, two Indigo 7800s and an HP PageWide T250 web fed inkjet press.

Head of Operations, Jack Clifford, explains the investment: “In 2022 we turned over £32m up from £21m the previous year and we reported 99.5% on time delivery. We expect demand to increase at least 15% over the next 12 months. We wanted to continue with this great level of service so we needed to invest in systems that could manage production and increase our capacity. We reviewed what we had to understand was needed to make improvements and where the greatest benefits could be realised. We also wanted to invest in solutions that placed less demand on our operators.”

The BQ500 iCE Perfect Binder and an HT300 iCE Three Side Trimmer were chosen to create a self contained book production line. The 800bph Horizon BQ-500 four clamp perfect binder includes highly automated set up via a large 12.1 inch colour touchscreen, memory storage of up to 999 jobs, pre-installed variable software capability and variable thickness production of 5mm. The Horizon HT-300 incorporates iCE LiNK cloud-based workflow as well as the operator focused features. It runs at 1,100 books per hour and offers fast set up and reduced operator touchpoints.

Says Jack: “One of our big goals for the future is to move more into book production. Before the investment everything had to be guillotined separately and that wastes a lot of time. We wanted a stand-alone line that would be ready to manage just the book work. Being easy to run the systems allow for less operator intervention too.”

The Horizon StitchLiner Mark III was chosen to replace a Horizon StitchLiner 5500. “It was a straight replacement,” states Jack. “We had the StitchLiner 5500

OPTICHROME EXPANDS WITH HORIZON SPF-200L

Optichrome expects to improve the speed, quality and reliability of short run landscape book production following investment in a Horizon SPF200L bookletmaker from Intelligent Finishing Systems (IFS).

The Woking operation that celebrates 60 years in 2023 specialises in high quality litho and variable personalised digital print and mailing. It runs a five colour Heidelberg XL 105 and a five colour Heidelberg XL75 litho presses and two Heidelberg Versafire digital colour presses.

John Heywood, Managing Director, explains the investment: “We had a similar machine, but we needed something more reliable, user friendly, versatile, and faster. The Horizon SPF-200L was recommended by a trusted individual who works for another equipment company. We did look at other systems but we liked this one because it proved to be the best on test with the easiest set-up. We particularly liked the fact it was simple to use and produced good quality results.

As a result of the investment John says: “We expect to see improvements in speeds, quality, and reliability. We will be capable of handling more job types, too, while also improving throughput and turnaround times.

He adds: “Hopefully it will help with some with new jobs that we couldn’t handle before but on the whole, we expect it to just deliver an all round improvement. We expect return on investment in three years.”

for seven years and it was time to upgrade. We hope to increase our saddle stitched book production, too, and the Mark III will enable us to do that.”

The final additions were the two fully automated AFV-566FKT iCE Folders. They have been developed to deliver enhanced functionality to tackle a broader range of fast turnaround run lengths quickly and efficiently. They feature a new look, advanced colour touch-screen panel cover and a status checking screen for a quick at a glance overview. Jack, who added that and two-up folding will be added soon, comments: “We needed two new folders to join the existing fleet for the extra capacity. Collectively, once upgraded, they provide us with the ability to put 1.5m folded items on the floor every day.”

The inclusion of iCE LiNK cloud-based workflow was important for operational oversight and reportability. It provides access to an intuitive easy to use dashboard that relays real time production analysis for improved efficiency and profitability, remote update capabilities and scheduled maintenance resulting in less downtime. The information is accessible via smartphone, tablet or desktop PC. Says Jack: “The data capture is important for us. We need to see exactly how long jobs take and how much jobs cost us to produce. With iCE LiNK this now gives us that insight”

Jack added the Horizon systems were chosen because: “They are ideally suited to the mid volume work that we produce. We have worked with IFS for years and know the service well. When we call on them they are very reliable. They have been a great partner over the years.”

www.ifsl.uk.com

As for working with IFS John says: “We found IFS positive and encouraging. The team was also very responsive, helpful, understanding as well as very straightforward to deal with.”

The 4,500bph Horizon SPF-200L landscape feed bookletmaker combines stitching and folding with the ability to handle sheets up to 640mm in length. JDF-ready, it offers instant set-ups via a large icon based colour touchscreen for user friendly operation. The screen can be used for on the run fine tune adjustments as well as the storage and recall of up to 200 jobs.

www.ifsl.uk.com

SCIENCE MUSEUM COVID EXHIBITION

scientific process involved in the development of the Covid vaccine.

The year long exhibition, Injecting Hope, plans to go subsequently on tour to Manchester and Glasgow Science Museums and other venues in 2023 and 2024, and celebrates the extraordinary work of scientists in finding effective vaccines to tackle the recent pandemic.

Working with existing client and principal contractor for the Science Museum Group (SMG), Central Leisure Developments, the team at MacroArt undertook all the graphic printing onto a wide range of substrates and assisted in the final installation process.

From designs supplied by SMG, MacroArt produced over 250 different graphical elements, comprising more than 175m2 of print, across media including birch-ply, MDF, Foamex, Duratrans, frosted/antiglare/clear acrylic, and conservation grade paper.

Working to exacting deadlines, the team at MacroArt proofed and printed all elements of the exhibition in under two weeks, in readiness for Central Leisure to install them.

PROFILE OF THE MONTH: NCR PADS

Project Managers, Dave Shannessy and Jade Pickard were on hand to offer additional technical help and services and to ensure the project went smoothly. This even included advice on specialist mirrored screw fixings for some of the panels alongside providing additional on-site installation support. Kenny Foot, SMG’s graphic lead, was delighted with the support he received; “I’m incredibly grateful for the team at MacroArt’s flexibility and

involved for their extraordinary effort in getting this project over the line.”

Dave Shannessy added: “Once again, our amazing production team stepped up to the mark in delivering this diverse, challenging and important project, and we are delighted that we met the client’s requirements on time and to such a high standard.”

www.macroart.co.uk

RNB GROUP STRENGTHENS PRODUCTION FLEXIBILITY

Contact NCR Pads for sound advice and a trade printing service that is reliable and fast on everything NCR, invoices, delivery notes, receipts, sets, books, restaurant order pads, loose sets, continuous forms and much more. When your customers need a multilayer printed set, think NCR Pads Ltd. 0330 111 5040 www.ncrpads.co.uk

Leeds based print, direct mail and fulfilment specialist RNB Group has praised the impact of a triple finishing equipment purchase from Friedheim International, revealing that the investment has helped to significantly improve production flexibility.

Founded in 2005, RNB works with hundreds of organisations across a number of industry sectors to deliver a wide range of specialist services such as print, direct mail, ecommerce, operational mail and data solutions.

This varied service offering means RNB’s finishing department is always busy — something that led to the group reaching out to Friedheim International for advice and guidance on how to ease pressure on its existing setup.

After speaking with Friedheim International, RNB settled on a triple purchase from the print finishing equipment specialist: a Hunkeler Unwinder UW6, Spedo 8500 E Stacker with tray (second user) and Spedo 2600 Pinless Cutter 2600.

The three machines have been in place a number of months now, with RNB’s Project and Account Manager Dave Martin explaining that the triple purchase has made the finishing process at RNB significantly more flexible, freeing up staff to take

they have also helped to streamline our paper to envelope time,” Dave said. “The investment has also reduced the number of touch points in finishing, freeing up staff in the process.

“The result of this was an immediate increase in productivity, which is what we expected when placing the order. Simply put, it has allowed more flexibility without breaking down kit.”

As to why RNB opted for Hunkeler and Spedo technology in particular, Dave said that the reputation of the two brands, both in house at RNB and within the wider industry, coupled with the expert guidance from Friedheim, meant there was a great deal of confidence when making the purchase.

“We’ve already felt the benefit of the triple investment, and when looking forward, we can expect ongoing flexibility, with the advantage to expand further,” Dave said.

www.friedheim.co.uk

CANON LAUNCHES NEW IMAGEPROGRAF TC-20

Canon has launched the new imagePROGRAF TC-20 large format desktop printer. This printer is targeted towards the ultra-low volume market, delivering high quality, detailed drawings from A4 to A1+ paper sizes. Its easy to use design, new 70ml four colour (BK/C/M/Y) pigment ink bottles, that simplify maintenance of the printer, and its super slim compact body with standard built-in Auto Sheet Feeder (ASF), make it ideal for small or temporary office spaces.

It is a compact desktop large format printer that can be conveniently placed on a desk or shelf in an office. It supports printing 100 A4 sheets or 50 A3 sheets of plain paper continuously or roll paper of up to A1+ sizes for printing of construction, design, survey drawings and point of sale materials. It comes with a simple, easy to use and free software solution, Direct Print Plus, that ensures superior print quality on par with the higher end models in the imagePROGRAF series and is also compatible with other imagePROGRAF models.

Jennifer Kolloczek, European Planning, Marketing & Innovation Senior Director, Production Print at Canon Europe comments, “Ways of working have rapidly changed in the last few years, as many have adopted a hybrid style of working — with people splitting their time between the office and their homes. Diversification of places and ways of working has led to the spread of distributed operations in multiple workplaces and as a result, there is a growing need for entry level large format printers — especially when transitioning between central, remote and home offices.”

“With its compact design, the new imagePROGRAF TC-20 is the ideal choice for modern working as it can easily fit in small spaces, without compromising on print quality. It also comes with job submission software which is compatible with other imagePROGRAF models and supports hybrid working, making printing easy when transitioning between the office and home. Its convenient design provides easy user maintenance, and it can deliver detailed drawings for AEC, educational and hospitality industries — helping businesses become future proofed with agile and responsive solutions.”

LARGE FORMAT PRINTING IN SMALL SPACES

The TC-20’s space saving design is ideal for home workers with large format printing needs. Its super slim compact body can be placed on a desk or shelf, and its design allows for all print related operations, such as loading paper and ink refilling, to be easily accessed at the front. For users unfamiliar with large format printers, the roll of paper is designed to be easy to install. Unlike many other large format printers, the roll holder is shaftless which makes it easy to install the roll paper, especially in small spaces. Users can very simply insert and lock the roll holders on two sides.

Using the free “PosterArtist” web application, users can create posters and flyers with ease. This is ideal for hospitality settings such as restaurants and retail stores where they might produce posters and menus and are often very short on space. “PosterArtist” offers a large variety of templates that enable users to create materials to suit their needs, with changeable text and images, making it easy for people unfamiliar with design to create original designs.

SUPERIOR OUTPUT EVERY TIME FOR A1+ TO A4 PAPER SIZES

Like the higher end models in the imagePROGRAF series, it comes with free software, Direct Print Plus, which allows users to check the layout of multiple files in different file formats, such as PDF, JPEG and TIFF. Providing previews on screen, designs can be printed directly without launching each dedicated application. By simply selecting the paper source within Direct Print Plus or an alternative printer driver, users can switch between roll paper and cut sheets and easily print output in a variety of sizes including A4, A3 and A1+. The standard built-in Auto Sheet Feeder (ASF) can also continuously print A3 or A4 size paper.

All four inks are colour pigment inks, used to achieve superior quality and vivid colours, with the ability to output high definition drawings at home or other remote locations with the same ease of use as when at the office. By using only pigment inks, thin lines and small characters in drawings can be clearly reproduced, achieving high quality characters and lines. When viewing printed drawings outdoors, the use of pigment inks also makes print outs more robust.

Monitor consumables with smartphone

The imagePROGRAF TC-20 is equipped with a large ink tank that enables continuous printing and uses 70ml ink bottles for all four colours (BK/C/M/Y) to reduce the frequency and effort of refilling ink. Using the Canon Print Inkjet/ SELPHY app, users can check the remaining amount of roll paper and ink on a smartphone, enabling quick responses to any required paper change or ink refill, as well as the ability to update firmware to keep the printer up to date.

By using the “PIXMA Cloud Link” feature from this app, printing documents filed or stored in the cloud is also possible. For example, a drawing created at a design office and stored in the cloud can be printed from a smartphone at a temporary construction site and shared with field personnel.

www.canon.co.uk/business/products/wide-format-printers/imageprograf-tc-20

RUBIK’S CUBE — MARKETING AT YOUR FINGER TIPS

Preseli has been appointed the new UK distributor for the Rubik’s promotional product range personalising to your customers requirements.

Intermed Asia has chosen the North Wales based Preseli as their new UK Distributor who will be offering the full range of Rubik’s products. The range will be based around UK and Far East produced models all produced to the highest print and finish standards.

In the UK Preseli will be offering full colour customisation on one face of the classic 3 x 3 cube. This will offer customers quick turnaround and low MOQs. The UK produced products will use

the latest digital printing and finishing allowing customers to use high detail edge to edge designs.

From the Far East the range will be extended to include six side customisation and the full range of other Rubik’s products from keyrings and pens through to desk items and speakers. All Far East products will be added to Preseli range of express delivery items with lead times from 15 working days from approval.

Use the superb online visualiser to upload logos and graphics so you can show customers exactly how their Rubik’s Cube will look. This unique design tool is free for quick print pros to sell to end users, simply logon to register your email address.

https://viewmycube.com

• 01352 730006 • sales@preseli.biz

• www.preseli.biz

There are many sides to successful print management. With Solopro, we piece together a set of exclusive services that match your business needs.

Solopro provides comprehensive, tailored support for businesses that rely on high volumes of print. With the Solopro team on your side, you’ll enjoy dedicated account management, flexible pricing, bespoke products and priority production as standard.

Get

NEW PRESELI PERSONALISED ECO-ECO STATIONERY

solution for their delegate packs.

The eco-eco range of press stud wallets includes an A4+ expanding two stud wallet that is perfect for meetings and conferences. Featuring a stud closure and big enough to hold A4 and foolscap documents, these folders are made from a strong 95% recycled material.

The folders are delivered from UK held stocks and can be customised with a printed logo within 10 working days.

Eco-Friendly Masonite clipboards — Perfect for corporate customers who increasingly need to achieve environmental targets. Masonite is an environmentally friendly board made from recycled wood pulp. These clipboards are durable and longlasting and suitable for recycling once their useful life is over.

Preseli, the North Wales based supplier, has announced a deal to distribute the eco-eco range of stationery into the promotional sector. eco-eco are a UK based stationery brand who only make Eco friendly products. The range includes folders, sleeves, clip boards and other essential stationery items. All products are made with 50-95% recycled materials and all can be 100% recycled after use.

Combined with Preseli’s ECO lanyards, the new range will give event organisers the ability to meet the needs of clients who have the very highest environmental impact targets.

“We were so impressed with the product range at eco-eco” says Preseli Marketing Manager Robert Bruce “that we are delighted to be adding it to our growing range of environmentally friendly products”

“We expect to see these products take over the conference market as organisers and venues are put under increasing pressure to meet customers’ Eco targets” eco-eco Conference Folders made from 95% recycled materials — Perfect for corporate customers who increasingly need to achieve environmental targets, this range will enable venues and organisers to offer a more planet friendly

NEW EFI FIERY DFES FOR THE NEW CANON IMAGEPRESS

Fiery, the digital front end (DFE) digital print workflow business of Electronics For Imaging, has released an innovative new series of EFI Fiery DFE products — the imagePRESS Server N500 and imagePRESS Server P400 — to support the new Canon imagePRESS V900 series of digital presses. Featuring new hardware, and the latest Fiery software, the DFEs give commercial printing businesses and in-plant production facilities the power to automate prepress functions and reduce the long prep times print professionals face when producing high quality colour work.

The combined power of the imagePRESS V900 Series and the new Fiery DFEs give light to mid-volume printing operations access to the latest technology helping them to maximise profit margins across every job. The new technology also helps customers easily produce and automate jobs for prepress, whilst helping to reduce print errors and waste.

The first of the new Fiery DFEs, the Canon imagePRESS Server P400, provides in-plant facilities and light to mid volume production print shops with easy to use job management tools to automate basic workflows. The second, the Canon imagePRESS Server N500, excels in demanding production environments with high power, high value prepress automation capabilities that maximise what print organisations can do with their production equipment.

“Our new DFE platforms offer high processing speeds and increased capabilities. These are innovative solutions that can help save time and reduce costs while outputting excellent quality,” said John Henze, Vice President of sales and marketing, EFI Fiery. “Today’s market is highly competitive and strained by labour issues. The Fiery DFEs can help in-plants and print shops operate at their peak and keep up with market demands.”

Available in a variety of sizes the clipboards are delivered from UK held stocks and can be customised with a printed logo within 10 working days.

Stationery bags and cases made from 95% recycled materials — The range of zipped super strong bags vary in size from pencil cases through to full size document wallets. All are made from a clear 95% recycled material which is also 100% recyclable.

The bags are delivered from UK held stocks and can be customised with a printed logo within 10 working days.

All enquires to sales@preseli.biz

CONSISTENT HIGH-COLOUR QUALITY

New, highly advanced 1-Step Color Management and Zero Touch Recalibration features for the imagePRESS Server P400 and N500 DFEs feature intuitive set and forget automation tools so operators with little colour management knowledge can produce accurate and consistent colour. Creating a custom profile and calibration set for new media requires no operator decision making. Plus, the DFE automatically executes recalibration schedules to help maintain colour consistency without complex processes or deep operator training.

HIGH OUTPUT, LESS WASTE AND FAST MAKEREADIES

The Fiery solutions that are the backbone of these two new DFEs employ Fiery FS500 Pro technology. With this new platform, the Fiery DFE RIP is now even faster. Users can complete more jobs per shift, reducing waiting times for job processing once and for all, with an overpowered RIP engine that can process even variable data heavy documents or graphicintensive photobooks up to 36% faster.

With the Fiery technology behind the new imagePRESS Server N500 and imagePRESS Server P400, print users can turn jobs around quickly, helping to optimise the capacity of their digital press and increase daily output.

The imagePRESS Server N500 comes standard with Fiery Preflight, a software that automates basic preflight checks for missing spot colours or low resolution images before printing. Print shops can produce high quality jobs and personalised prints with a native Adobe PDF Print Engine 5.5 workflow. Another innovative feature which is included with this DFE is Fiery JobExpert™ software, which can automatically set the optimal way to process a job. www.efi.com

Explore the Possibilities of Paper

● Optimised thickness & sti ness

● Extreme smoothness

● High opacity

● High whiteness

● Consistent quality

● Great runnability

● Environmentally friendly

‘LIBERTY’ FOR ALL SUBLIMATION USERS!

TheMagicTouch in Dunstable, under the DyeSub Magic brand has announced the arrival of some real transfer innovation for all sublimation ink users.

Historically the sublimation transfer process has been restricted to applications onto garments and promotional items that required a high polyester content or special polyester coating and had to be either white or pastel in colour. However, this has now changed.

The newly developed “Liberty SubliPrint” printable sublimation transfer media enables vibrant full colour imaging onto a host of garments and fabrics including all types of cotton, mixed fibres and nylon regardless of colour. All products are certified to Oekotex Standard 100 Class 1. The transfer media is eco-friendly,

water based, solvent and PVC free and vegan friendly.

This unique one step printable media available in both A4 and A3 format is printed directly using a traditional sublimation printer. The thin coated product offers a soft touch with good stretch properties. The printed media can be manually trimmed or profile cut using a plotter/cutter with an optical eye function for precise and complex designs. No mirror image required. Designs involving free form text can be applied easily using traditional application tape if needed. Available now in both A4 & A3 format with 50 sheets per pack. For samples and further information contact sales@themagictouch.co.uk or call 01582 671444.

SOLOPRESS LAUNCHES NEW FOIL PRINTING COLOURS

presentation folders.

MD Simon Cooper commented, “Following the success of foil printed products, we felt the time was right to expand the range and offer a broader choice of colours. With Christmas approaching, we’re hoping customers will embrace the new options and add some colour and shine to their seasonal print.

“Foil printing requires customers to provide two layers of artwork: one that indicates the foiled area, and one with the remaining design elements to be printed conventionally. For customers that are new to foil, Solopress has produced a video tutorial on their YouTube channel as well as a written guide to ordering foil print.”

Explore the new foil options at

Solopress has expanded its range of colour options on foil printing. The new colours are bright gold, green, turquoise, blue, red and black. They join gold, rose gold and silver, which have been part of the Solopress offering since 2019.

The Essex based printer uses Konica Minolta’s JETVarnish 3DS technology to apply the coloured foils, followed by a sealing coat of UV varnish for added shine and durability. This method allows them to print both large expanses of foil and delicate details as fine as 0.5mm.

Print products benefitting from the new options include flyers and leaflets, business cards, greetings cards, postcards, invitations, brochures and

PROPHET ANOTHER YEAR, NEW RESOLUTIONS?

Martin Christie treats himself to a new DSLR camera, but how significantly different is it when it comes to printing with those armed with smartphone cameras?

The story so far — At the end of last year, I treated myself to an early Christmas present in the form of a new camera body. Not the first time in twenty years of digital imaging, but quite a significant step up to a full-frame DSLR. It may not mean much to anyone other than a camera enthusiast. Still, it is a major escalation in pixels and quality of the image, and I’ve been impressed with the improved performance even after a few weeks of comparison testing.

The reason for mentioning this is to illustrate further the challenge we have in printing dealing with images taken on phone cameras.

It is not the devices themselves — quite capable in the right conditions — of taking good quality images, but the assumption by users that they will take great pictures all the time regardless of when or where they use them. So bear with me if I draw this comparison between the two extreme alternatives.

Apart from the obvious external difference between a camera and a phone, the importance is what goes on inside. The exchangeable lens DSLR, looking much like a traditional film camera, was introduced over twenty years ago. Still, rather than having a sensor the same size as 35mm film, for reasons of cost, most of them adopted a smaller one, which became known as a cropped sensor about two-thirds the size. The larger, so-called full-frame sensors were expensive and reserved for top-of-the-range models and photographers who could afford them.

I certainly wasn’t in that league then, and besides, a top-of-the-range crop frame DSLR did a pretty good job for the money, at least in comparison with what most customers expected to pay. I haven’t got any richer, nor have they, but the availability of good second-hand bodies and lenses put the upgrade within my reach. Ironically this may be partly the result of wealthy enthusiasts trading in hardly used toys for whatever is the latest must-have gadget, and partly professionals just upgrading their kit. Either way, it’s a perfect storm.

As a photographer, I welcome the fact

is set to widen as more and more images are delivered from the latter for editing and printing. Unfortunately, due to massive promotion, what is not likely to change is the general public’s blind faith in their devices. Now, they use them every day and, for almost all of their information transfer, sadly, your job may be to explain the limitations when it

To understand why the size of the sensor is important, I’ve illustrated three copies of the same image in the different dimensions of a full-frame DSLR, a very good crop frame one, and the average phone sensor. In terms of scale, think A4 to A5 and then to less than A7 and the amount of detail you can cram into the same space. The

phone people confuse the issue by packing a lot more mini pixels into a smaller space to sound impressive, but the effect is the same. A small sensor needs a lot more light to capture an image, and for light read also detail. Given that a phone also has a fairly primitive simple lens compared to a DSLR’s advanced optics, you can see why there is a performance gap and why phones rely on electronic interpretation and the increasing use of AI.

Any experienced photographer knows that however good the camera is, it helps to give it the maximum amount of help, not only in the amount and direction of light but in the basics of keeping the camera steady and getting the subject in focus. Unfortunately, all these things are irrelevant to the phone snappers as they’ve been convinced that the technological wizardry will do it all for them. Look at any of the camera settings contained in the metadata of most images sent to print - the smoking gun of any digital file - and you will see shaky slow shutter speed combined with the widest aperture, which means the lens is operating at its most extreme and therefore least capable setting.

When you know that you are a little prepared for the challenge ahead — it may not look too bad on the small backlit screen, but committed to paper and ink is another matter as there is nothing to highlight dark areas or pull out detail which may barely exist unless you work a bit of magic.

The obvious question is why bother if that’s what the customer has given you? Well back in the day when print shops were just copy shops, plenty of time was spent making adjustments on the glass to get colour and exposure correct. That’s what made the difference between a professional service and the local library or corner shop, taking that extra care to get a more perfect print. Back then, colour calibration was a lot more basic than it is today. What is similar is that the customer can see the original and query why you can’t reproduce it ‘correctly’.

Of course, what they now see on their phone’s screen, and believe it to be correct, is a whole new can of worms I shall not delve into now. What is true is that it is the device’s interpretation of the image that has been captured. If you choose to accept it, your task is to turn that digital illusion into something acceptably real.

Obviously, the more information you have in a file, the more you can do with it, but size alone can be deceptive. We use the phrase resolution too easily because it covers a multitude of states. In simple terms, it’s purely a measurement of dimensions, whether in centimetres or pixels per inch. Either simply measure size, not quality, but more of them mean you have a better chance of producing something good or at least something you can work with.

We used to have puzzle books that had

join-the-dots pictures, which only made sense if you could join all the dots up, and in the correct order, and how clear the image was depended on how many dots and how close they were together. In many ways, there are similarities in creating digital images. Clarity and sharpness are concepts essential to digital as identifying individual pixels depend on the difference between one and another rather than the more seamless transition of film. You can see this if you enlarge any digital image until it starts to break up into its individual pixels. This is much more of a problem for phone camera images because of the size of the sensor and the proximity of the small lens — it results in what we call a shallow depth of field. Objects in the picture are artificially compressed, so it is harder for smart electronics to separate one from the other without making sharp decisions on shapes, resulting in the crude, jagged edges we see creeping into enlargements. There is no way of smoothing out these transitions other than reducing the overall clarity of the image. As some software does, increasing the number of pixels only amplifies the issue.

Filters on phones and easy editing apps also make things worse as they are designed to make the pics look fancy on social media rather than for print. If you get a chance, the best advice is for the customer to save the original untouched as well as a screen grab or copy of how they would like it to look so you can do a more competent job — if you can. This is best practice for any image editing and should be second nature in the print shop studio if you have ever adjusted several versions only to end up close to the one you first started with. In Photoshop, save each edit as a separate layer and save it as a PSD or TIFF; it will then remind you before closing that it is not a flattened

image. In Lightroom, your default setting is to export as a different file, and it will warn you if you are about to overwrite the original. Once committed to a JPG, all that work and the adjustments will be wiped out. With layers, history states or virtual copies still intact, there’s a get-out-of-jail option to take a step back or start again. It’s the same process as any other equivalent software.

Most phone users, of course, will be using whatever app they have available, so they won’t know too much about that sort of thing, which is why it’s just better they don’t attempt to do too much pre-print preparation. While it’s easy to belittle these usually free, make-it-easy functions in photography or design, they are aimed to make phones more functional, and tasks more user-friendly. They are meant to sell more phones, not make things any easier for the print industry. You can’t ignore them or condemn them; you just have to understand how they work and are likely to compromise an image.

In the next few issues, I will aim to give some tips on how to deal with common problems I’ve encountered over the years with a view to spotting them and sorting them quickly for printing. As it usually involves an enlargement, the file’s actual content is important so you can advise a customer how large it will print and what it will look like.

There are plenty of tutorials online to help you through all the amazing new tools available in Photoshop and the like. Still, they can look intimidating if you are not an experienced user. The examples also tend to start with almost perfect images, so it’s a matter of enhancement, not major surgery. I’ll try and stick to more straightforward solutions that work on less-than-ideal originals. Don’t despair, I’ve been doing it for twenty years, and I’m still learning!

Typical phone metadata, slow speed and wide open shutter, plenty of pixels but no clarity

EPSON ESTABLISHES UNIQUE OFFERING

Epson UK has underpinned its commitment to industrial label and textile production with the establishment of a direct sales channel following the appointments of Russell Lambert and Chris Smith as Account Managers for Commercial and Industrial.

Both bring extensive industry experience to their unique direct sales roles. Russell joined from Konica Minolta where he was Commercial Print Account Manager. He has also worked for Canon, Xerox, HP, Kodak, and PrintSpeak. Chris joined from Dantex where he was latterly UK & Ireland Sales Manager for Flexo/ Digital Inkjet Solutions. Prior to that he held roles with Eastman Kodak and a number of printing companies including St Ives.

Together they will be the key contacts for Epson’s industrial label and textile systems – the Monna Lisa, the Epson Surepress and the Epson SC-F10000H.

The Monna Lisa ultimate direct to fabric printer meets the needs of the digital textile market for flexibility and sustainability. It accurately reproduces complex patterns, colour gradations and fine details on a wide variety of fabrics as a result of the Epson GENESTA inks available in Acid, Reactive, Disperse, and Pigment formulations.

The Epson Surepress digital label press with LED UV curing ink enables inline embellishment of labels with matte, gloss, and spot varnish for more attractive labels. It delivers faster full colour variable data printing on a wide range of label substrates for many different applications.

EMMA JOINS DURAWELD

She says…As one door closes we always hope that a new door will open for us. I am glad to say for me this has. With the very quick and sad loss of Celsur Plastics, I am pleased to be taking my 20 years experience with Celsur onto new ventures with Duraweld and wanted to let you know as soon as I could that your orders of many years can still be fulfilled by a manufacturing company. For those of you not already familiar with Duraweld, they have over 60 years experience manufacturing PVC high frequency welded products, producers of paper over board and polyprop products such as ring binders, boxes,

The Epson SC-F10000H sets new standards for the dye-sublimation sector for the production of clothing and fashion sportswear, home furnishings, promotional goods, and soft signage. It comes with a choice of two different inksets - CMYK with genuine fluorescent pink and fluorescent yellow ink, ideal for apparel that demands vivid colour reproduction, and CMYK with Light Cyan and Light Magenta inks that reduces graininess and harsh halftone, perfect for impactful sign and display applications.

Comments Russell: “As part of this unique approach to sales by Epson we will be working directly with customers to enable them to grow their portfolio of services with investment in the latest technology in industrial label and packaging, direct to textile printing, and dye sublimation. We will take a 360-degree overview of their operation to ensure their investment allows them to create strong returns from day one. We will also support them as they build on existing capabilities and production processes to grow their businesses in different directions.”

Chris adds: “There are a number of market considerations shaping opportunities for print service providers. They include reshoring to enable faster more responsive local production and increased sustainable practices that reduce raw material use, cut carbon footprints, eliminate unnecessary waste. These solutions help businesses differentiate their offering while also responding to these challenges. They provide companies that are looking to invest in digital, or who have already invested in digital, unrivalled technology manufactured completely by Epson including printheads, ink, firmware, and software.”

Russell is the contact for southern England and south Wales while Chris is the contact for Northern England, not Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Ireland.

www.epson.co.uk

folders, point of sale and pockets to name a few. With a recent introduction of new machinery, they are also able to produce printed and plain folding cartons and of course I will still be supplying my promotional gifts. So, for a one stop shop for all your pvc, paper overboard, polyprop, packaging supplies and promotional gifts delivered to your required destination and with a friendly voice that is familiar with your jobs then please do not hesitate to give me a ring on 07968 475264 or email me on emma.morris@duraweld.co.uk

www.duraweld.co.uk

SOYANG WELCOMES GARETH NEWMAN

Soyang Europe has announced the appointment of Gareth Newman as its new Technical Applications Manager, with immediate effect. An experienced industry professional, Gareth has worked in the print industry for almost 10 years, serving in a host of production, support and management positions, and will bring a wealth of knowledge to the Soyang Europe/Josero team. With his extensive applications knowledge, Gareth will be able to offer specialist advice, support and customer training on new software and hardware products. In this new role, Gareth will be responsible for delivering both in-house and on-site product demonstrations, as well as being the go-to person for technical queries.

Gareth will also be profiling machines to Soyang Europe materials and working with the sales and marketing team to help highlight the company’s market leading offerings.

“We are delighted to welcome Gareth to our team,” says Mark Mashiter, Managing Director at Soyang. “We are always on the lookout to add talented staff to our team; I look forward to working with him and seeing our customers benefit from his knowledge.”

Gareth adds: “I am really pleased to be joining Soyang Europe at such an exciting time for the business.”

www.soyang.co.uk

Russell Lambert Chris Smith

THE EXPANDED TRUEVIS PRINTER LINE-UP

New printer capabilities provide unrivalled possibilities for the sign and graphic industry and, to push boundaries further, Roland DG recently announced the expansion of its TrueVIS product family.

QPP’s Dean Cook flew to Barcelona’s motor racing circuit for the launch of several new printers.

The latest launch is the most significant product announcement by Roland DG — it offers the most extensive range of ink technologies and applications for roll-toroll printing in one product family.

The new models are expected to shake up the market, building on the eco-solvent heritage of TrueVIS by adding UV print and cut technology with the high productivity LG Series and the multi-functionality MG Series, alongside Roland’s first water-based resin ink printer, the AP-640.

Together with the four eco-solvent models launched in March 2022, the TrueVIS line-up expands to 10 inkjet devices.

Together it provides a unique and unparalleled offering for the industry; the TrueVIS range delivers industry-leading image quality in each technology segment that is compatible with the widest range of applications, ensuring no application requirement or quality expectation is out of reach for customers.

The newly developed resin model offers natural expressiveness, takes advantage of the media texture, and uses enhanced environmental and people-friendly inks. In addition, the UV models enable high-definition output, including three-dimensional expressions for the reproduction of artwork and for communicating by touch, including Braille, while the eco-solvent models create graphics with vivid colours, taking UV printing to a new level.

The all-new common hardware platform featured within each machine includes significant user interaction improvements and digital connectivity through Roland DG Connect, designed to increase competitiveness and significantly decrease user downtime.

Tony Miller, President of Roland DG’s Global Sales and Marketing Division, comments: “Consumer needs have and continue to dramatically change against a backdrop of fast-paced technological innovation, changes in social structure, and the growing awareness of environmental issues. As a result, printed graphics are increasingly required to transmit information and offer functionality and expressiveness that create positive impressions and experiences.

“We are excited to support our customers through this changing landscape by launching an expansion to our TrueVIS line-up — offering more options and better, innovative solutions for all. So no matter which printing technology they choose, our customers can count on the same industryleading TrueVIS quality of printing and reliability across the full range.”

Alongside this expansion of products, Roland DG has launched its TrueVIS product wizard, which helps customers find their ideal TrueVIS product, cutting through the complexity of choice. Each product is scored and weighted to provide accurate response results, recommending the hero product for the customer alongside alternatives to consider.

While more than two pages are required to go into details, applications and benefits, here is a brief overview of the range.

TRUEVIS AP-640 RESIN INK PRINTER

The AP-640 is a new 64” resin ink large format variable dot printer that has all the benefits of resin with TrueVIS quality Piezo printheads arranged in a dual, staggered formation with an optimiser printhead and dedicated CMYK printhead for a finer dot, resulting in more precise colour and image results. It redefines resin printing with high-colour saturation on a wide range of coated and uncoated media, including non-PVC, vinyl, paper, film and more. In addition, GREENGUARD Gold Certified TrueVIS Resin Ink meets the most rigorous standards for low VOC emissions into indoor air.

The 7”, full-colour touch panel offers easy print options with intuitive settings and functions. Water-based TrueVIS Resin Ink provides quick-drying, scratch-resistant, safe results on a wide range of media.

It now uses new 700ml high-capacity ink pouches. In addition, the high-productivity Dryer Unit allows prints to dry quickly and thoroughly before proceeding to the next process.

For superior colour and image output, it has printheads to offer variable dot printing for more precise colour and image results. In addition, the TrueVIS Resin Ink offers heavier colour saturation on PVC-free media than conventional resin ink and resin

printers. Newly developed water-based resin ink and innovative True Rich Color 3 preset work together to provide vibrant colour and natural-looking print quality.

TRUEVIS LG-640/540/300

UV-LED INKJET PRINTER / CUTTER

Available in 30”, 54” and 64” widths, the LG Series is a UV-LED high-definition output printer/cutter with special effect features. Its staggered print heads, ECO-UV inks, and True Rich Color combined with userfriendly features will seat the LG well in any professional UV print and cut environment.

A redesigned chassis, high-quality components, and a variety of media handling improvements make the LG perfect for unattended printing of short runs, long runs, print/cut, and so much more. Its 7” LCD touchscreen control panel is intuitive. The LG series offer automated media calibration saving time and material. In addition, it has a newly designed, adjustable media take-up unit that accommodates rolls of different sizes, and a one-touch media clasp makes loading media rolls easy for a single operator. Available ink configurations to meet your customers’ needs, from brand-accurate colours to high-end, premium gloss and texture effects, the LG series can also combine orange and red inks to push further the colour boundaries of digital printing. High-opacity white ink specially formulated to produce high-quality window graphics with economical ink usage quickly.

Included is VersaWorks 6 RIP featuring the new True Rich Color 3 preset, Nearest Colour Finder, and Variation Job function. It is also Roland DG Connect App ready, providing instant access to print jobs.

Various available ink configurations expand your capabilities to include rich colours and interesting spot UV effects. In addition, the perforated sheet cut option reduces post-processing with “easy tear” perforations between print jobs.

TRUEVIS MG-640/300

UV-LED INKJET PRINTER / CUTTER

Available in 30” and 64” widths, the MG Series is a UV-LED high-definition output printer/ cutter that even offers special effects. The most advanced generation TrueVIS uses ECOUV inks and premium UV print technology, making the MG series ideal for branching into professional UV printing and cutting. High-quality components, timesaving RIP features and simple media handling make the MG perfect for printing short runs, long runs, print/cut, and so much more. Its control panel is also easy to operate.

Available ink configurations to meet your customers’ needs — from brand-accurate colours to high-end, premium gloss and texture effects; it also combines orange and red inks to push the colour boundaries of digital printing further. High-opacity

white ink is available and formulated to produce high-quality window graphics with economical ink usage. Various available ink configurations expand your capabilities to include rich colours and exciting spot UV effects. VersaWorks 6 RIP is included and features the new True Rich Color 3 preset, Nearest Colour Finder, and Variation Job function. You can connect using Roland DG’s Connect App, giving you instant access to important data about print jobs as well as your business.

Optional accessories include a tension bar that enables printing onto thin films, an extension table that lets users print onto semi-rigid card stock, and a take-up unit enabling unattended printing.

TRUEVIS SG3-540/300 ECO-SOLVENT PRINTERS

Available in 30” and 54” width options, the SG3 eco-solvent range uses FlexFire print heads, TR2 inks in CMYK provide a consistently excellent output of beautiful signs and graphics, and True Rich Color combined with user-friendly features, making the SG3 a superb performance-level printer. In addition, the redesigned chassis, high-quality components, and various media handling improvements make the SG3 perfect for runs of decals, small signs, partial wraps, and more. The SG3 is easy-to-operate and uses an intuitive 7” LCD touchscreen control panel. It has an automatic media gap adjustment which can save time and material. The newly designed, adjustable media take-up unit accommodates rolls of different sizes, and a one-touch media clasp makes loading media rolls easy for a single operator. Focusing on performance printing, it has an array of features, plus TR2 inks in CMYK; the SG3 is of remarkable value for print providers and graphics creators. A 54” model is an excellent fit for any new shops or existing businesses looking to expand production, while the 30” SG3-300 is the ideal blend of performance and affordability to start printing profitable signs and graphics.

The VersaWorks 6 RIP features the new True Rich Color 3 preset, Nearest Colour Finder,

and Variation Job function. In addition, the SG3 series is Roland DG Connect App-ready, giving you instant access to print jobs.

TRUEVIS VG3-640/540

ECO-SOLVENT

PRINTERS

Available in 64” and 54” width options, the VG3 eco-solvent range features FlexFire print heads, TR2 inks, and True Rich Color, combined with user-friendly features, makes the VG3 an excellent choice in professional print graphics production.A redesigned chassis, high-quality components, and a variety of media-handling improvements make the VG3 perfect for unattended printing of short runs, long runs, print/cut, and so much more. As with other printers in the TrueVIS family, it too has an easy-to-operate, intuitive 7” LCD touchscreen control panel and offers media calibration, saving time and material. A newly designed, adjustable media take-up unit accommodates rolls of different sizes, and a one-touch media clasp makes loading media rolls easy for a single operator.

Available ink configurations also integrate orange and green inks to expand the colour gamut further with digital printing. New CMYK plus light cyan, light magenta as well as the orange and green inks, combined with True Rich Color 3, delivers a variety of available ink configurations to print richer colour, smooth gradations, and beautiful skin tones. Included is VersaWorks 6 RIP, which features the new True Rich Color 3 preset, Nearest Colour Finder, and Variation Job function. It, too, is Roland DG Connect App ready. The perforated sheet cut option reduces post-processing with “easy tear” perforations between print jobs.

It was a lot to experience during a flying visit to Spain, but if, like me, you’re passionate about innovative printing, do find the opportunity to see the exciting range of the TrueVis series, there is bound to be at least one which could very well meet your needs and more.

Roland DG’s team said they will be attending a number of exhibitions but details weren’t confirmed at the time. For more information, visit rolanddg.eu

TrueVIS AP-640: Roland’s first water-based resin ink large format variable dot printer which uses the new 700ml high-capacity pouches.

DESIGN BRIEF – 25TH ANNIVERSARY. GET INVOLVED!

Can you help conjure up a colourful QPP 25th anniversary branding? Nothing to beat, all I found were some rather traditional car rally logos. As Quick Print Pros we must be best equipped to create something to reflect our stunning industry. Best design will be awarded with a suitable prize, yet to be blagged from our favourite industry suppliers. I do like the look of the 2023 Pantone Colour Of the year, Viva Magenta. All entries will be appraised by real quick print pros and the best shared in our celebrations and up for a final vote. Commemorating 25 years sharing best practice in print has been our pleasure. Meeting fellow print shop owners and our suppliers, pioneering new technology and processes, has been rewarding to both report and action in our own print business. We first started publishing to the print trade in 1998 at a time now labelled ‘analogue copying’. Our own short run print business started in 1984. A magical time to introduce the wonderful world of colour to a mono audience. The magical new technology was driven by mirrors and lenses.

The drums spun for each colour and the paper transported by cogs, static and prayer. Our design brand has changed from its CSN News launch with the logo representing a copier paper path, even with its own green start button! Entries please to editor@quickprintpro.co.uk Professional purveyors of print are also invited to share a few two and a half decade memoirs about

PANTONE 2023 COLOUR OF THE YEAR

their journey from copy shops to print service providers.

Suppliers to our 36,000 quick print pros are invited to join in the celebrations with some special anniversary pricing and product focus.

A BIG THANKS to our QPP magazine, e-zine, website and social marketing sponsors; without you we couldn’t share best practice in print.

“Viva Magenta promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative.” Grab a new limited edition guide celebrating the Pantone Colour of the Year 2023. Great to be on trend for design inspiration, colour specification, and printing accuracy. This special edition coated and uncoated set features a beautiful soft touch cover in PANTONE 18-1750

Viva Magenta a brave and fearless crimson red tone

whose animated presence promotes joyousness and encourages self-expression without restraint. For those of you that have a Magenta branding, fill your boots with the merch on the link below. For the rest of us that promote colour in its full spectrum, promoting the latest on trend colour keeps us upfront with our customers.

www.pantone.com/uk/en/marketplace/ collections/color-of-the-year

THE PLACE TO BE IN 2023!

14

WHY VISIT?

Trade Fair Centre,

Discover the latest technology in-person and get your hands on innovative products and machinery

Connect with the industry and make impactful and lasting business relationships Gain valuable insider knowledge and find out about the current industry trends and topics

EXHIBITION PROFILE

Consumables

Corrugating line, equipment and components

Corrugated and carton converting machinery

Design and CAD / CAM

Printing processes and equipment

Ancillary equipment

Cutting, creasing and die cutting equipment

Materials handling and warehousing

Pallet strapping and handling systems

MIS and plant scheduling systems

Waste extraction and baling

HAHNEMÜHLE’S DIGITAL FINEART PAPERS EXCLUSIVE TO ARTSYSTEMS

The Hahnemühle Digital FineArt Collection is a comprehensive assortment of high-quality fine art inkjet papers and canvases created for customers who are seeking to get the best out of their images.

From 1st December 2022, print companies across the UK will be able to access the full range of Digital FineArt media from ArtSystems’ resellers. Achieving outstanding printing results and a high age resistance of over 100 years, the Hahnemühle FineArt inkjet papers meet the uppermost standards for fine art applications and are perfect for long-term exhibitions, art collections and special editions. Pure spring water and premium cellulose as well as plant-based fibres are used as the basis for the papers. Specially manufactured natural wool felts give the artist papers their unique surface texture, providing a three-dimensionality that enhances every image.

The Digital FineArt Collection has a distinctive paper thickness and tactile feel that increases the sense of value and optics. All the media in the range have a premium inkjet coating, which results in an impressive reproduction of colour and detail and incredible contrasts and deep blacks.

In 2020, Hahnemühle launched their highly successful award-winning Natural Line manufactured with highly renewable fibres such as bamboo, hemp and agave. The Natural Line range has become a firm favourite with consumers and customers alike due to their sustainable nature whilst maintaining a highly exceptional printing output.

“We are delighted to be able to extend our already expansive range of media solutions with the addition of these high end products from

PREMIER STARTS 2023 WITH IRISH ACQUISITION

Following on from the acquisitions of WBC, the luxury packaging and retail display company; and the purchase of Zulu, the packaging and lamination films supplier, Premier has announced that Dublin based GPMI is the latest company to be acquired by the group.

GPMI is a leading paper merchant and has a strong and established position in the Irish market supplying both the commercial print and sign and display sectors. With warehouses and offices in Dublin and Belfast, GPMI has a turnover of around €28m with 50 employees.

Michael Beever, CEO of the Premier Paper Group says: “GPMI is an exciting addition to the Group and opens up a new geographical market for Premier. These latest acquisitions are consistent with our strategy of achieving good organic growth, based on our traditional paper merchanting foundations, together with selected acquisitions in new but complementary markets.”

GPMI Managing Director Enda Brophy commented: “Being part of Premier will open up many opportunities for GPMI and will allow us to further develop our service offer and product choice to our customers. Being part of Premier and the wider global OVOL Japan Pulp & Paper Group gives our customers and suppliers confidence and reassurance of our commitment to the future of the print and graphical communications market. I am looking forward to starting the next phase of our development during 2023 as part of the Premier organisation” www.paper.co.uk

Hahnemühle,” ArtSystems’ Marketing Manager John Draycott said. “The Digital FineArt papers are of the very best quality and are suitable for multiple types of photography and fine art reproduction.”

Hahnemühle UK Managing Director, Nancy Janes, adds: “Hahnemühle products have been used by Picasso and NASA; we are craftsman in the digital age and have generations of knowledge to pass onto our customers and partners.

www.hahnemuehle.com • 0115 9380 390 • supplies@artsystems.co.uk

FEDRIGONI ‘SWISS ARMY KNIFE’ OF VERSATILE LUXURY PAPERS

Fedrigoni, the Italian manufacturer of luxury and speciality papers, has released a new swatch of its Arena range comprising a selection of white, off-white and ivory uncoated papers and boards.

Dubbed the “Swiss army knife” of papers because of its multi-functional use, the papers are an elegant yet practical tool for packaging, print, photography and illustrations and are compatible with any printing, post printing, binding and folding processes and techniques.

Available in four shades (Ivory, Natural, White and Extra White), three different finishes (Smooth, Rough and Bulk), 14 weights from 70 to 580 g/m2 and six sheet formats (B1 in long and short grain; B2, SRA1, and SRA3 in long and short grain), the papers in the new Arena swatch are sustainably made and using 100% FSC certified fibres, as well as having a version made with 50% recycled fibres. The range also includes matching envelopes and a selection of HP Indigo-optimised papers.

The new Arena swatch complements Fedrigoni’s existing range of Arena papers launched in 2019 which have all been crafted using innovative and sustainable processes that limit the use of production waste and water. The swatch follows the new branding guidelines, with the same ‘gallery of ladders’ at the back as their Sirio and Digital swatches.

Ian Braithwaite, Commercial Manager, Fedrigoni UK commented: “Arena is an excellent material for creatives of all persuasions who appreciate how texture and form can elevate artistic expression to new heights. The versatility and performance of the new range enhances creative possibilities, making it the perfect partner for all print, illustration and 3D structures.”

Arena papers have been used in a number of standout projects made in partnership with creatives and Fedrigoni, including award winning “HappyMess” – a sketchbook celebrating the messy by-product of physical creation and the vital role artists play in archiving positive moments in life through creative expression.

To receive a swatch, contact a Fedrigoni Paper Consultant or visit www.fedrigoni.com

SWISS-MADE INNOVATIONS AT SIGN & DIGITAL UK

swissQprint is presenting its latest innovations in flatbed and roll to roll printers alongside some impressive applications in UV printing, on stand J10 at Sign & Digital UK, at the NEC in Birmingham from 21 to23 March.

Print service providers seeking the latest in added functionality, productivity and sustainability will discover swissQprint’s innovative printers and applications, including neon inks, texture printing and 3D effects, delivering an array of effective solutions.

Throughout the show, live demonstrations will showcase Europe’s best selling flatbed printer, the Nyala 4, featuring cutting edge print head

technology for premium print quality – up to 1350 dpi resolution – combined with impressive productivity. Visitors will be able to see its impact at first hand.

Alongside the Nyala 4, swissQprint’s dedicated roll to roll printer the Karibu, with its unique and user

friendly features, will also be shown.

Visitors to the exhibition will be able to learn more about the other models in the Swiss made range of large format printers. The most recent addition, the Kudu, is a high end flatbed printer featuring ten freely configurable colour channels, plus other add-ons. It can print up to 304 square metres of high quality output per hour and delivers remarkable efficiency and versatility for users.

Erskine Stewart, Managing Director of swissQprint UK, said: “We are delighted to be attending Sign & Digital UK once again. This event is a perfect opportunity to both meet with existing partners and share insights about the benefits of swissQprint’s systems with new businesses. Our team is looking forward to welcoming all visitors to stand J10.”

www.swissqprint.co.uk

NEW EXHIBITORS AT PRINTWEAR & PROMOTION LIVE!

As the UK’s only exhibition dedicated to the garment and product decoration market, P&P LIVE! provides the perfect platform for companies new to the market to introduce their products and services to decorators and to meet with potential new customers. It is also the ideal place for previous exhibitors looking to re-engage with a captive audience and to grow their already successful businesses.

Following the rapid influx of direct to film print equipment into the garment decoration market over the last two years, Inkfuse DTF (stand D72) is a business start-up looking forward to sharing its expertise in DTF printing in February with visitors. The team will be showcasing a range of leading DTF printers, which Richard Mitchell from Inkfuse DTF, says produce DTF transfers that really stand out from the crowd. He adds: “It’s natural for the DTF people to want to ask questions about the printing process and we are looking forward to answering the diverse queries we will receive.”

Other new exhibitors include TWT – Transworld Trophies (stand P52), Trade Embroidery (stand

F32), Sock Monkeyz (stand A62) and BeSmart Pro (stand J20).

Tony Ellis of TWT – Transworld Trophies says: “Having visited several times in the past, and seen the array of exhibitors, I can see a potential new audience that could be interested in exploring the world of trophies. Visitors should visit our stand to explore awards and trophies as a possible new revenue stream for their business. We are there to show how easily this can be done with minimal outlay and minimal expertise required.”

RETURNING EXHIBITORS

After the cancellation of P&P LIVE! in 2021 and the subsequent postponement to April in 2022, P&P are pleased to welcome back a number of exhibitors, many of which last exhibited in 2020. These include; Advance Apparel (stand H20), Permaset Ink (stand P22), The Outdoors Company (stand H30) and Trendsetting Awards (stand A46). These varied

companies are looking forward to exhibiting on the lively exhibition floor and getting their products and services in front of the thousands of visitors that Printwear & Promotion LIVE! attracts on an annual basis.

Full list of new and returning exhibitors: Advance Apparel (stand H20) • Aim Smarter (stand J22)

• BeSmart Pro (stand J20) • CADlink (stand G24)

• David Sharp (G50) • DigitisingMart (stand H22) • Headwear (stand B70) • HPC Laser (stand A44)

• Inkfuse DTF (stand D72) • Insignia16 (stand P50)

• Merch & Product Source (stand F52) • Permaset Inks (stand P22) • Sock Monkeyz (stand A62)

• The Outdoors Company (stand H30) •

TP European Solutions (stand P42) • Trade Embroidery (stand F32) • Trendsetting Awards (stand A46) • Trophy Distributors UK (stand A10)

• TWT – Transworld Trophies (stand P52) • Vapor Apparel (stand F34)

Registering to attend Printwear & Promotion LIVE! is quick and easy. Simply head to the dedicated exhibition website.

www.printwearandpromotionlive.co.uk

TROPHIES,

AWARDS, ENGRAVING PERSONALISATION SHOW

Trophex is a well established trade event with over 30 years of experience, focused on bringing the industry together.

TROPHEX will be opening its doors to you all on Sunday 2nd and Monday 3rd April 2023 at The National Conference Centre and Motor Cycle Museum in Birmingham.

With complimentary parking, plus a reduced entrance rate to the Motorcycle Museum whilst you are visiting Trophex, why not make a day of it and bring your family.

Leading companies from within the Trophy, Awards, Engraving and Personalisation industry will be presenting their 2023 catalogues for the coming year, displaying their latest product ranges, demonstrating the newest technology and sharing with you their valuable knowledge.

Live demonstrations and displays will be taking place at many of the exhibitors stands offering you a chance to source and sample the latest products, trends and developments in your field.

www.trophex.com • 01442 826826

DON’T MISS THE UK’S BIGGEST EVENT IN SIGNAGE, DISPLAY AND

PRINT!

SIGNAGE PRINT DISPLAY DÉCOR DESIGN

21-23 MARCH 2023 NEC, BIRMINGHAM

Discover everything needed to grow your business at the longest-running trade show for the visual communications sector.

Free to attend and with a host of new demos and features designed to inspire creativity and future-proof your business – SDUK 23 will be unmissable. Register now:

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR YOUR FREE TICKET

TREE PLANTING TO THE ROOTS OF CARBON CAPTURE

Pepper Wood is the home of where it all began. In Fairfield, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire Carbon Capture was born in partnership with Premier and the Woodland Trust.

On the 6th December 2022, 30 of Premier’s dedicated environmental champions gave an early Christmas present back to mother nature. The small but mighty team of tree planters dug deep and persevered in relatively kind weather conditions from 10:30 to 12:30. Overall, 600 native broad leaf trees were planted in the Woodland Trust’s Pepper Wood on a brisk winter’s morning.

Pepper Wood spans over an impressive 147 acres in the rolling Worcestershire country side near to the market town of Bromsgrove. The Woodland Trust gained possession of the community woodland in the early 1980s and ensured it remained a green sanctuary honouring its history and beauty. Pepper Wood is a formal conservation designated area, also known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This is due to its high conservation value through containing an extensive variety of trees, shrubs and flowering plants which are all protected by the Trust. This remarkable woodland is home to a whole host of wildlife including woodland birds such as nuthatch, jay, marsh tits and great spotted woodpeckers and at night tawny owls. The woods also provide a valuable habitat for the rare land caddisfly and the white admiral butterfly along with a number of uncommon moths.

Pepper Wood, in all its beauty, is one of Premier’s

PDS (PRINT DATA SOLUTIONS) JOIN TWO SIDES

The print and paper advocacy group, Two Sides, has announced its newest member — PDS (Print Data Solutions), the Northamptonshire based print management company.

idea grew and has branched out to become the print industry’s leading environmental programme.

The programme mitigates the CO2 emissions from the production and distribution of paper and materials purchased from Premier and gives customers and their clients the opportunity to join many major brands in doing the same. Every penny raised goes to the Woodland Trust to be directly used to plant native woodland in the UK.

The Woodland Trust have bought a plot of land extending the edge of Pepper Wood. Premier and their customers were the first group to take on the open space and begin the work of planting native trees on the newly acquired land. An impressive 600 trees were planted by the team of 30 customers on the morning of the 6th December, with many eager to continue the work. A diverse mix of people

as a team to help build a nursery of woodland for future generations to enjoy.

“Getting out and planting trees to protect our future, is brilliant for the youth and the local community. I’m really pleased and delighted at what everyone has achieved here today, coming together and planting trees; everyone is demonstrating their commitment to nature and improving their sustainable development goals and it’s just amazing!” Hussein Ismail, Sustainable Business Director.

Through the Carbon Capture programme, Premier and their customers have already planted over 400,000 trees across the UK, captured 92,000 tonnes of CO2 and donated over £1.5million to the Woodland Trust since its launch in 2012. www.paper.co.uk

EPSON AWARDED ECOVADIS PLATINUM RATING

With over 20 years’ experience in print management, Print Data Solutions has a long pedigree of service that has enabled the business to grow year on year. PDS continues to evolve, providing innovative and bespoke design and print management solutions to a wide variety of clients working in many different industries.

“Print Data Solutions are delighted to become a member of Two Sides. Our priority is to deliver value to our clients and help meet their sustainability objectives. As our clients are increasingly aware of consumer opinions on the environmental impacts of brands, we’re pleased to provide them with information and help them make sustainable choices on their print requirements,” says Gemma Luck, Marketing Manager for PDS.

By joining Two Sides, PDS has access to a large library of co-brandable communications tools, consumer research, industry-leading information, sustainability advice, and events. www.twosides.info/why-join-two-sides www.printdatasolutions.co.uk

Epson has earned its third successive platinum rating for sustainability from EcoVadis, a leading provider of business sustainability ratings. This is in recognition of the company’s global efforts to uphold the highest standards on the environment, labour and human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement, and highlights Epson’s commitment and actions on sustainability.

The platinum rating ranks Epson in the top 1% of companies in its industry, particularly excelling in the fields of the environment as well as sustainable procurement. The independent evaluation methodology is based on a framework of 21 sustainability criteria mapped to global standards and guided by the international scientific community. Customers can trust this independent certification and be assured Epson is one of the most responsible and accountable companies in its sector.

EcoVadis is a recognised business sustainability ratings organisation covering 200 industry categories, 175 countries and regions, and over 90,000 companies of all sizes worldwide. Epson’s latest platinum rating reflects its ongoing commitment and notable improvements towards sustainable growth in the past year.

Epson is committed to becoming carbon negative and underground resource free by 2050 and has made a number of measurable commitments related to sustainability and community impact. Focused on solving societal issues, it publishes details about its environmental initiatives, the creation of social value, corporate governance, and other CSR activities in its Sustainability Report.

www.epson.co.uk

2023 FAST START WITH A NEW TART

We are so happy to share the New Tart Range that EML has launched this month! The bakery team has been busy perfecting a recipe, and we’re pleased that they’re now available for your customer’s brand.

The Jam Range is available in two flavours, Strawberry, and Lemon; they are extremely yummy and will leave your clients wanting more! They are generous in size and filled with plenty of sweet jam, meaning that they will definitely be the star of the show at events or even within the office.

EML has also launched a Millionaire Tart! This option will replace the current Millionaire Shortbread, offering an even better eating experience! Filled with gooey caramel and topped with a deliciously rich chocolate flavoured layer. The Millionaire Tart will be a hit both with your clients’ employees and their customers.

Print on tarts are topped with your clients own 5cm business logo or message of their choice, making them into a promotional tool which your clients can use to engage in conversation, increase brand awareness and overall increase morale. These toppers are made from high quality icing and the logo/message is

printed using 100% edible ink. Each tart is individually wrapped in clear, eco-friendly film, to ensure freshness and quality. All EML tarts have a 3–4 day shelf life, however due to how scrumptious they are, I’m sure that your customers will be eating them as soon as they arrive through the door!

Go on, encourage your clients to treat their staff and customers today! 01772 472580 • emlsales@eatmylogo.co.uk • www.eatmylogo.co.uk

MIMAKI 3D PRINTED MODELS STAR IN EMMERDALE SOAP

When ITV’s Emmerdale soap opera reached its milestone 50th birthday, the show’s producers marked the occasion with a series of stories that came to a head in a gripping special episode. Weaving the show’s past with the present, an all action climax saw a deadly storm hit the village and, in the run up, viewers were treated to a powerful trailer, that featured starring cast members recreated as full colour 3D printed models, produced on the Mimaki 3DUJ-553 printer.

ITV contacted Cheshire based 3D scanning and printing specialist Europac3D to establish the possibility of 3D scanning and colour printing for the project and, as the company’s Operations Manager Danielle Kenny recalls, things soon began to get interesting. “This started out as a very innocent enquiry but grew quickly into an enthralling project.”

“We visited ITV at their offices in Leeds and scanned the cast members using the Artec Leo scanner,” she continues. “We had a full day on site with the team and scheduled the actors to attend specific timeslots, during which they were scanned in costume, holding poses to match the requirements of the animated trailer.”

The Artec Leo scanner is a portable, handheld 3D scanner, and is the first system to offer full on-board automatic processing. With its inbuilt HD screen, the 3D replica can be viewed during the scanning process, to ensure that all areas of the object (or in this case, the actor) have been correctly captured.

enable two different sized versions of each to be produced.”

Europac3D called upon UK and Ireland Mimaki distributor, Hybrid Services to create the final models, printing them on the high end Mimaki 3DUJ-553 full colour 3D printer. “The Mimaki was the only solution available to us to complete the job,” cites Danielle. “We needed full colour output that would stand up to close scrutiny on the nation’s TV screens, and with its ability to print up to 10,000,000 colours, the Mimaki fitted the bill perfectly.”

The Mimaki 3DUJ-553 has a build area of 500 x 500 x 300mm, which allowed the characters to be batch printed using Mimaki’s layout software to optimise the print process. Mimaki’s range of full colour 3D printers use UV curable ink in conjunction with water soluble support material to build the models, and once printed, the figures were placed in a water bath to allow the support material to dissolve, before final cleaning. “The non-invasive removal of the support material ensured no time was lost through breakages and ITV’s deadline was hit with time to spare,” Danielle recalls.

Aired in the weeks prior to the landmark episode, the trailer is a one minute animated scene, depicting the explosive impact of a huge storm on the fictional village. Key characters are shown in emotive poses, suspended in time as the storm wheels around them, and as the camera pulls back, it becomes apparent that they’re actually portrayed as decorations, set amidst a vast cake situated in the village pub.

“The finished trailer is a really dramatic watch, and the 3D printed models were really put to the test during the filming,” she concludes. “The producers were delighted with the results of the scanning and printing – and It was a privilege to be able to contribute to a memorable bit of TV history.”

www.hybridservices.co.uk/3D • www.europac3d.com

MACROART’S LARGE SCALE GRAPHICS

The four strong MacroArt team undertook installation of all elements of the project, with the biggest challenge being affixing the single piece main banner to the frame.

Photographers’ Gallery into a permanent new art gallery.

The latest display, contemporary photographer Gideon Mendel’s ‘Fire / Flood’ project, is one of two exhibitions a year presented by the gallery, utilising MacroArt’s reusable graphic structures.

On winning the iconic project, placemaking and event specialists Field & Lawn appointed MacroArt to meet the challenges in producing and installing the complex permanent and reusable 45m x 8.5m frame on a building opposite the Gallery.

Working closely with Field & Lawn throughout the process, MacroArt’s Senior Project Manager, Andrew Conway, and his team devised a bespoke freestanding structure that covered the building façade, using the latest aluminium frame and high impact print and lighting technology.

After a full survey, brackets, lighting troughs were manufactured, and framework sections were produced by MacroArt to Field & Lawn’s specifications, to secure the impressive graphics, which were printed as a single element on MacroArt’s Durst 5m wide printer.

In all, over 200m2 of graphics was produced for the display, using PVC-free materials to enhance the overall sustainability of the project. The uniquely designed, tailor made unobtrusive aluminium frame stands proud of the building, providing a seamless, reusable, and elegant display for the work, whilst providing sufficient room for venting, service electrics and lighting.

In a complex but efficient collaboration between Field & Lawn, MacroArt and third parties including project architects, (Andreas Lechthaler Architecture), lighting suppliers and local government departments, the framework, ancillary lighting and the initial single piece graphic were installed in just eight days.

TIME TO PARTY AND MAKE AN EXHIBITION OF YOURSELF: PERSONALISE YOUR CUSTOMERS’ TABLE RUNNERS AND TABLECLOTHS

Andrew commented; “We are so excited to be working with The Photographers’ Gallery once again. Collaborating closely with Field & Lawn throughout the process, we installed large scale graphics down several alleys and streets, transforming them into an outdoor gallery space. The result has not only been well received by Field & Lawn and the gallery, but the artist is also very impressed with the quality.”

Rebecca Crofton, Senior Project Manager at Field & Lawn, added; “This was a challenging project, requiring in depth attention to the technical detail, combining complex fitting requirements and very large graphics. We were delighted with the quality and professional service provided by Andrew and his team at MacroArt and look forward to continuing to work with them as our exhibitions grow and evolve. “The results speak for themselves, and The Photographers’ Gallery and the surrounding streets are the perfect space to showcase free displays for the public in a highly impactful and visual way.”

Images courtesy of and copyright: Kate Elliott Photography.

www.macroart.co.uk

I HEART VALENTINE PRINT

FULL COLOUR PRINTED TABLE RUNNERS

Graphic Warehouse full colour dye sublimated printed table runners are printed on to a 220gsm polyester fabric, fully finished with a double hem and invisible thread. washable perfect for that accidental spilled coffee.

Provide personalised table runners to companies attending trade exhibitions and major events. Any brand or company may look fantastic in front of its rivals thanks to their table runners. With bespoke table runners, you can rest easy knowing that the message is being heard loud and clear by your target audience. More info…

www.graphicwarehouse.co.uk/products/flags-textiles/tablecloths/table-runners.html

FULL COLOUR PRINTED RECTANGULAR AND SQUARE TABLECLOTHS

Graphic Warehouse full colour dye sublimated printed rectangular and square tablecloths are printed on to a 210gsm polyester fabric, fully finished with a double hem and invisible thread. Front leader is 730mm, Back Leader is 70mm with a 490mm side drop, this will allow for leg room and storage access behind the table. More info… www.graphicwarehouse.co.uk/products/flags-textiles/tablecloths/rectangular-square.html

www.graphicwarehouse.co.uk 0330 380 0172 info@graphicwarehouse.co.uk

Artwork available to save you time. Print a few samples to display and find the romantics in your customer base. Thanks Becky@Colourfast.co.uk for your designs and offer to share to fellow quick print pros.

Compatible with a wide range of double-sided tapes up to 22mm in width

More accurate than taping by hand

Positioning is easily editable

Fast and easy set-up

Fully integrated with the latest versions of Zip Core software

Fully automated flatbed cutting, creasing and taping system

Tape on the X and Y axis

Saving you both time and money

Compatible on the Veloblade Volta + range

Watch Our YouTube Video

FIND YOUR SUPPLIER WITH QUICK PRINT PRO’S PREFERRED SUPPLIERS HUB

ABBOT PRINT

T: 01442 867600

E: sales@abbotprint.com

W: www.abbotprint.com

Manufacturers of business stationery, books and pads.

ASHGROVE TRADING

T: 01779 470606

E: info@ashgrovetrading.com

W: www.ashgrovetrading.com

Ashgrove is the UK’s friendly and personal specialist supplier of innovative products and solutions for cutting-edge digital printing and finishing techniques, making printers’ lives easier and making print better.

ATLANTIC TECH

T: +44 (0)1279 638 500

E: sales@atlantic-tech.co.uk

W: www.atlantic-tech.co.uk

Reliable Service & Support. The largest independent printer service and support provider in the UK, supplying an extensive selection of top brands including Azon UV Flatbed, Mutoh Roll to Roll Solvent and UV Flatbed printers. Proud to offer a national service and support for Solvent, UV and Latex printers from these leading brands: Mimaki, Ricoh, Azon, Roland, Mutoh and HP.

ART SYSTEMS LTD

T: 0870 224 2612

E: marketing@artsystems.ltd.uk

W: www.artsystems.co.uk

Colortac Scanners, HP Designjets, MakerBot 3D printers, Canon wide format printers.

BAKER LABELS

T: 01277 281900

E: sales@bakerlabels.co.uk

W: www.bakerlabels.co.uk

Baker Labels can handle exceptionally large or surprisingly short print runs and aim to have your order ready within four days of proof approval. The sales and customer service team can assist you in selecting the most appropriate material, adhesive and finish depending on the end use of the product.

CALF HEY DESIGN

T: 01484 542 795

W: www.calf-hey.com

Label manufacturer, trade-only, plain, printed, laminated, barcodes, numbering, one- to full-colour, we do it all, total label solutions at trade prices. Call for free sample pack.

CASLON LTD

T: 01727 852211

E: info@caslon.co.uk

W: www.caslon.co.uk

Business card cutters, Digital print finishing,, Finishing products and systems, Foiling equipment, Print finishing equipment and Thermographic equipment & supplies.

CJB PRINTING EQUIPMENT

T: 0116 2600777

W: www.cjbpe.co.uk

E: sales@cjbpe.co.uk

CJB Printing Equipment Ltd was formed in 1994 by two directors with over 40 years of combined experience in the printing industry. We are an independent leading supplier of a large comprehensive range of print finishing equipment. The company is now a substantial two-generation family concern with an ever-growing reputation for supplying quality new and used equipment.

COLOURFAST GROUP

T: 01273 674321

E: sales@colourfast.co.uk

Can print and deliver for you in Brighton.

DURAWELD

T: 01723 584091

E: sales@duraweld.co.uk

W: www.duraweld.co.uk

Manufacturer of presentation products to package, present and protect printed paper and multimedia. Ring Binders, Tabbed Dividers and Indexes, Files and Folders, Wallets, Polypropylene Boxes, Multimedia Packaging, Self Adhesives and Presentation Ring Binders. Customise to your requirements through screen or litho print, pockets and accessories. Quality service, competitive prices and fast turnaround.

ELMSTOK

T: 01945 463434

E: sales@elmstok.co.uk

W: www.elmstok.co.uk

A leading worldwide supplier in document presentation systems and finishing equipment including Binding Machines and Supplies, Manual and Electric Guillotines, Laminating Machines and Supplies, Paper Drills and Punches, Folders, Booklet Makers and Shredding Machines.

FD SOLUTIONS

T: 0118 956 1740

E: sales@fdsolutions.ltd.uk

W: www.fdsolutions.ltd.uk

GBC main UK dealer as well as nationwide distributors of all types of binding, laminating machines and supplies, including guillotines, paper drills, booklet makers, folding machines and cutting and creasing equipment. Nationwide Service cover offered on all finishing equipment.

FLEXPRESS

T: 0116 267 6269

E: admin@flexpress.co.uk

W: www.Flexpress.co.uk

Trust, in any relationship, is paramount so you’ll find Flexpress provide a good, honest trade print service and keep our promises; this is how, since 1989, we’ve grown to become one of the most respected printers in the UK. Everything we do is produced by us right here in our own production facility using the very latest stateof-the-art equipment.

GFSMITH

T: 020 7407 6174

E: london@gfsmith.com

W: www.gfsmith.com

Paper and card suppliers of prestigious printing and presentation media.

IFS INTELLIGENT FINISHING SYSTEMS

T: 020 8997 8053

E: info@ifsl.uk.com

W: www.Ifsl.uk.com

A leading supplier of finishing equipment including the Horizon market-leading automated system range in many of the key finishing disciplines — including folding, perfect binding and saddle stitching. 35 years serving the digital and litho print industry.

LISTAWOOD PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS

T: 01553 818818

E: sales@listawood.com

W: www.listawood.com

UK manufacturer of promotional products including mousemats, ceramics, liquid filled products, USB Flashdrives and magnets. 100% trade only.

LISTAWOOD TRADE SUPPLIES

T: 01553 818848

E: tradesupplies@listawood.com

W: www.listawood.com

A one stop shop for consumables and equipment for dye sublimation and chromablast. Authorised distributor of Hix heat presses and parts.

THE MAGAZINE PRODUCTION COMPANY

T: 01273 911730

E: info@magazineproduction.com

W:www.magazineproduction.com

Comprehensive cost-effective white label design, production and print solution for independent publishers. In-house company newsletters, brochures and magazines — we can send print compliant artwork back to you for printing for your customers.

MORGANA FINISHING SYSTEMS

T: 0800 1381 882

W: www.plockmaticgroup.com

Manufacturer of a comprehensive range of finishing products and systems. Booklet makers & Trimmers, Collators, Business Card Cutters, Creasers.

NCR PADS LTD

T: 0330 111 5040

E: lets.talk@ncrpads.co.uk

W: www.ncrpads.co.uk

Bespoke printing in the UK for trade NCR pads, sets, books and continuous forms.

Foiling Baker Labels

Foiling Equipment Caslon

Folders and Booklet Makers Elmstok

Folders & Files Plastic Duraweld

GBC Magna Punch ��������������������������������������������������FDS Solutions

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Guillotines — Manual and Electric������������������������������������Elmstok

Heat Press Equipment ��������������������������������������� The Magic Touch

Heat Presses Listawood Trade Supplies

Horizon AFC-566F IFS Intelligent Finishing Systems

Horizon BQ-480 IFS Intelligent Finishing Systems

Horizon StitchLiner Mark 111 IFS Intelligent Finishing Systems

HP Designjets Art Systems

Stanford Marsh

Draw Tickets Raffle Tickets Direct Drytac Your Print Speclialist

Duplicate Books & Pads ����������������������������������������������Abbot Print

Dye Sublimation

Consumables and Equipment Listawood Trade Supplies

Embossing and Diecutting Baker Labels

Epson����������������������������������������������������������� Your Print Speclialist

Finishing Consumables Ashgrove Trading

Finishing Equipment Ashgrove Trading

Finishing Products and Systems Morgana Finishing Systems

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Flyers �����������������������������������������������������������������������������Flexpress

Foliant Vega 400 IFS Intelligent Finishing Systems

HP Indigo and UV inkjet labels Baker Labels

Incentive Marketing PrintOn Indexes Duraweld

Inkjet Consumables for LFP Perfect Colours

Labels Calf Hey

Labels Premier Paper

Labels Supreme Labels

Labels – digital plain Ashgrove Trading

Labels – sheets/rolls Ashgrove Trading Labels (Flat Sheet) ��������������������������������������������������������Sovereign

Laminating Machines and Supplies, all types ������������������Elmstok

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Labels and stickers Baker Labels

Large Format Printers Stanford Marsh

OCÉ IMAGING SUPPLIES

Wide format materials: 0800 623 623

Small format materials: 0800 212 943

Renowned supplier of copying and printing equipment to copy shops, carries one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive range of consumables, for both small and wide format machines, from A4 white paper to display graphic materials such as backlit films.

OKI SYSTEMS (UK)

T: 01784 274300

E: ukenquiries@okieurope.co.uk

W: www.oki.co.uk

PEN WAREHOUSE

T: 01252 400270

E: sales@pens.co.uk

W: www.pens.co.uk

Trade pen supplies.

PERFECT COLOURS

T: 0845 680 9000

W: www.perfectcolours.com

E: info@perfectcolours.com

HP Preferred Partner specialising in large and grand format printing and finishing solutions, supplying Durst, Jetix, HP, Canon and Epson LF printers. For more information or to book a free printer demonstration call or E: us.

PDC PRESENTATION SOLUTIONS

T: 020 8810 5770

E: sales@pdcuk.com

W: www.pdcuk.com

PDC are the UK’s Coil/Spiral experts, we manufacture 45 coil colours in any length up to one metre, in diameters from 6mm up to 50mm and in a range of 45 colours. Call or E: for free samples and pricing.

PREMIER PAPER

T: 0121 313 1115

W: www.paper.co.uk

The Premier Paper Group is the UK’s leading independent paper merchant and through its business divisions and nationwide branch network, offers a great choice of products and services for professional print service suppliers.

Premier Paper deliver more than mere paper by providing first class services, sharing knowledge and information, they endeavour to become an integral and valuable part of quick print pros business.

RAFFLE TICKETS DIRECT

T: 01933 411332

E: sales@raffleticketsdirect.co.uk

W:www.raffleticketsdirect.co.uk

One colour to full colour raffle tickets. Fast free express delivery. Cheapest prices in the UK at the best print quality. All tickets are glued within the stub (no metal staples used to fix books).

RENZ UK

T: 01707 270001,

W: www.renz.co.uk

The leading manufacturer of punching and wire binding machines from desktop to fully automated systems. Largest UK supplier of spools and cut length wire.

ROUTE1 PRINT

T: 0114 294 5026

E: sales@route1print.co.uk

W: www.route1print.co.uk

• Free Next Day Delivery • Free 30 Point Artwork Check

• Trade Customers Only • White Label Packaging

Route 1 Print are passionate about helping quick print pros. Offering dedicated account managers and a 10-second proofing tool, to white label packaging and unbranded sample packs, Route 1 Print is committed to making your frontline printing service easier.

SHARP ELECTRONICS (UK)

T: 020 8734 2000

W: www.sharp.co.uk

4 Furzeground Way, Stockley Park, Uxbridge, Middlesex UB11 1EZ SOVEREIGN

(SOV PRINT LTD)

T: 01443 816414

W: www.sovprint.com

Sovereign are industry leading screen and digital print manufacturers of durable and bespoke Labels, Tags & Signage. We supply over 100 expertly produced products to industry, trade and commerce. Ranging from heavy-duty labels and stickers, to point of sale, machine fascia’s and high-quality bespoke signage.

STANFORD MARSH

T: 01905 458000

W: www.stanfordmarsh.co.uk

Official dealer for all main manufacturers, allowing us to supply best fit solutions for all users. Please visit our website.

SUPREME LABELS

T: 01924 402111

W: www.supremelabels.co.uk

Label Suppliers, Roll Labels, Laser Labels, Warning Labels, most formats available.

TECHNOLOGY BUSINESS SERVICES

T: 01474 747575 • 01376 433300

E: info@techxerox.com

W: www.techbusserv.co.uk

Specialists in new and refurbished Xerox digital printers, Xerox consumables including toners and parts and reset chips.

MAGIC TOUCH (THE)

T: 01582 671444

E: sales@themagictouch.co.uk

W: www.themagictouch.co.uk

Supplier of transfer papers, colour laser printers and heat presses to open up exciting opportunities to print on a limitless range of products.

VIVID LAMINATING TECHNOLOGIES

T: 01530 510946

W: www.vivid-online.com.

Vivid offer a wide range of innovative and exclusive Laminating Systems ranging from Desktop to Wide Format Laminators. Visit the website to view the full range which also includes Binding and Print Finishing solutions.

XERETEC

T: 02380 574100

E: info@xeretec.co.uk

W: www.xeretec.co.uk

Xerox Technology, Document Consulting, Office Supplies

XEROX UK

T: 01895 251133

W: www.xerox.co.uk

Bridge House, Oxford Road, Uxbridge, Middlesex UB8 1HS The Document Company supply a full range of office equipment.

YOUR PRINT SPECIALISTS

T: 0191 256 6889

E: info@yourprintspecialists.co.uk

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With an impressive portfolio of products to offer and a dedicated service team. Everything you require from wide format printers to the assisting software and finishing solutions. YPS are authorised suppliers of Mimaki, RolandDG, Epson, Flexa, Vivid, Drytac, Metamark and Toyo. YPS also offer training and support through Your Print Institute, a new initiative to help those entering the print industry gain skills and knowledge to help them succeed.

READERS’ SCRIBES SOMETHING TO SHARE?

COMEUPPANCE

A woman awakes during the night, and her husband isn’t in bed with her. She goes downstairs to look for him. She finds him sitting at the kitchen table with a glass of whiskey in front of him. He appears to be in deep thought, just staring at the wall.

She watches as he wipes a tear from his eye and takes a sip of his whiskey. “What’s the matter, dear?” she asks. “Why are you down here at this time of night?”

The husband looks up from his coffee, “Do you remember 20 years ago when we were dating, and you were only 16?” he asks solemnly.

“Yes, I do,” she replies.

“Do you remember when your father caught us in the back seat of my car making love?”

“Yes, I remember,” says the wife, lowering herself into a chair beside him.

The husband continues, “Do you remember when he shoved a gun in my face and said, ‘Either you marry my daughter, or I’ll send you to jail for 20 years?’”

“I remember that, too,” she replies softly. He wipes another tear from his cheek and says, “I would have gotten out today.”

TEMPORARY TATTOO

I recently went to a temporary tattoo parlour to get a tattoo. After about a week I couldn’t wash it off so went back to complain, but the tattoo parlour was gone. Should have used The Magic Touch Tattoo 2.1.

STAYING FLEXIBLE

I said to the gym instructor, “Can you teach me to do the splits?” She said, “How flexible are you?” I replied, “I’m pretty flexible, but I can’t make Tuesdays.”

TOO MUCH GLISTENING

The girlfriend stands by her door, not sure what to say. “Honey, why is your whole upper half covered in baby oil?”

“Well, you’re always saying I never glisten,” replies the boyfriend.

“Listen! I said you never LISTEN!”

READING THE DICTIONARY

Tried to read the dictionary in bed last night. Didn’t finish it. Got up to ‘P’.

BREAKFAST TIME

“If you’ll make the toast and pour the juice, sweetheart,” said Tracy, the newlywed bride, “breakfast will be ready.”

“Good, what are we having for breakfast?” asked Dewey, the new husband.

“Toast and juice,” Tracy replied.

MANAGING YOUR ANGER

Husband: Every time I yell and get angry at you, you never fight back. How do you manage your anger?

Wife: I clean the toilet seat.

Husband: How does that help?

Wife: I use your toothbrush.

THOUGHT I FOUND THE ONE

I thought my new girlfriend might be the one but when I went through her drawers and found a nurse’s uniform, a French maid’s outfit, and a police woman’s uniform, I changed my mind.

If she can’t keep a job, she’s not for me.

MY DELOREAN

I’m looking to sell my DeLorean. It’s in good shape, low mileage and only driven from time to time!

SECOND FIDDLE TO A DOG

Little Timmy loved his dog Laddie very much; they played together every day and Laddie was always there to greet Timmy when he came home from school.

One day, while Timmy was at school, Laddie crawled under the fence, ran out into the street and was hit by a car and killed. Timmy’s mother, naturally, was very distressed, not only by the matter itself but from wondering how she was going to explain this to Timmy. As Timmy walked through the door a few moments later, his mother mustered up her courage to speak to him.

“Son, I have bad news. Laddie is dead.”

Timmy paused thoughtfully for a moment,

shrugged, then said, “So, what’s for lunch, Mum? I’m starved.”

“My, what a brave little boy you are!” his mother replies with relief. “You’re certainly taking Laddie’s death well.”

Upon hearing this, Timmy suddenly bursts into tears, his body racking with sobs, and says, “I thought you said Daddy.”

HAVE YOU SEEN MY BROTHER?

A penguin walks into a bar. He goes to the counter and asks the bartender, “Have you seen my brother?”

Bartender replies, “I don’t know, what does he look like?”

THE DESIGNATED CANINE

While taking their dog on a road trip, a family carries his drinking water in a gin bottle.

On one occasion they stopped for lunch and let him out of the car. Pouring some water from the bottle into his bowl, the husband noticed a man watching with fascination.

The man slowly approached the family and whispered, “I hope that you’re not going to let that dog drive!”

LOVELY CHILD

My wife said she’d like to have another baby. I agreed. The one we have is starting to annoy me.

KNOW YOUR ANIMALS

A guy spots a sign outside a house that reads, “Talking Dog for Sale.”

Intrigued, he walks in. “So what have you done with your life?” he asks the dog.

“I’ve led a very full life,” says the dog. “I lived in the Alps rescuing avalanche victims. Then I served my country in Iraq. And now I spend my days reading to the residents of a retirement home.”

The guy is flabbergasted. He asks the dog’s owner, “Why on earth would you want to get rid of an incredible dog like that?”

The owner says, “Because he’s a liar! He never did any of that!”

I got a lift to the eleventh floor, and as I got out…

…the operator said, “Have a good day, son.”

“Don’t call me son,” I said. “You’re not my dad.”

He scratched his head, “No, but I brought you up, didn’t I?”

The NEW Morgana DigiFold Pro XL

Built with our unique, open design, the suction feeder handles stock sizes from 210 – 1300mm in length, useful for applications, such as covers for landscape booklets, book covers for oversized perfect bound books, multi-panel brochures and many other applications made from these long sheets. An additional static crease option can be installed to enable the full range of crease and perforation options.

Running efficiently to fold up to 6,000 A4 sheets per hours and in crease only mode up to 7,500 sheets per hour, making this is our most productive creaser/ folder to date.

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The NEW Morgana DigiFold Pro XL, with its cost efficient vacuum top feeder, is an easy to use automatic paper creasing and folding system that eliminates unsightly cracking on digital stock.