Issue 252 - April / May 2024 www.signlink.co.uk Industry Events ▲ We take a look at the current role of trade shows and industry events Page 40 Keypoint launches DTF service Keypoint Intelligence has launched a new direct-to-film (DTF) testing service Page 06 MacroArt to become Moss MacroArt will transition to the Moss brand after being acquired last year Page 12 Sustainable Signage Materials With so many eco alternatives now on offer, we highlight some of the latest Page 53 Adventures in Sign Painting Sam Roberts explores how hand-painted Ghanaian film posters are being preserved Page 36 Promotion announced at InkTec Michelle Thirlby has been promoted to the role of operations director at Inktec Page 24 Image: FESPA Global Print Expo
3 NEWS Industry 06 Industry members remain positive amidst news of the UK entering a recession Business 12 digital 18 Kit & Media 20 people 24 events 26 SPECIALS Under the Hood: Mimaki UCJV330-160 29 Company Spotlight: signspeed 32 We speak to co-owners Sam and Donna who have taken over the reins of the business Under the Hood: vivid easymount Hybrid 34 Adventures in signwriting 36 sustainability spotlight 38 Trade Shows and Industry Events 40 FEATURES MIS SYSTEMS 43 hybrid systems 49 Sustainable Signage Materials 53 We look at some of the sustainable materials available as alternatives to sign-makers Window Graphics 59 CONTENTS Issue 252 April / May 2024 email: news@signlink.co.uk Issue 252 - April / May 2024 ISSN 2976-9213 IN THIS ISSUE 59 36 53 10 43 32 18
Issue 252 - April / May 2024 4 ISSUE 252April / May 2024 email: news@signlink.co.uk signlink signlink signlinkmagazine GHOST SIGN CORNER: Cigarettes Marouf, Ghent Illustrated ghost signs are relatively rare, and even rarer are those with ornate pictorials like this one in Ghent, Belgium. The sign dates from the 1920s and is located on a wall with good visibility from the passing train line. At some later date it was covered up and protected, before being revealed again in 2006. It has since faded considerably. The Cigarettes Marouf brand was manufactured by Matossian, a household name in the cigarette industry from the late nineteenth century until the 1920s. The company was founded in Egypt by two Armenian immigrants: Hovhannes Matossian who set up a small workshop in Alexandria in 1882, and his brother Garabed who did the same in Cairo in 1886. In 1896 the brothers merged their firms and the company grew to become Egypt’s largest cigarette producer, with a factory in Cairo. In 1927 it merged with British American Tobacco under the umbrella organisation Eastern Tobacco Company. The first evidence of Matossian activity in Belgium dates to 1920, and the Marouf brand was marketed here from that date. It’s possible the sign was produced not long afterwards, perhaps as part of their launch into this new market. Sam Roberts is the editor and publisher of BLAG (Better Letters Magazine) www.bl.ag and www.ghostsigns.co.uk Publishing director Page Tuck Sales director Chris Davies Lead contributor Rob Fletcher Contributors Brian Sims, Sam Roberts Contact Editorial: 0117 980 5040 Sales: 0117 960 3255 Production: 0117 980 5041 Accounts: 0117 980 5042 Find us online www.signlink.co.uk Socials All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or any information storage or retrieval system without the prior consent of the publisher. The views expressed by contributors to Signlink magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or editorial team and Link Publishing Ltd. takes no responsibility for any errors that may have occurred. The publisher also accepts no responsibility for the advertising content, including any error, omission or inaccuracy therein. Calls may be recorded for training purposes. Link Publishing Ltd. retains the right to publish and re-publish any images or information sent to the publication. Link Publishing Ltd, Unit G, Link House, Britton Gardens, Kingswood, Bristol BS15 1TF Editor Carys Evans carys@linkpublishing.co.uk Online editor David Osgar david@linkpublishing.co.uk Production Shaun Edwards shaun@linkpublishing.co.uk Sales Tim Hall tim@linkpublishing.co.uk Sales Luke Stoneham luke@linkpublishing.co.uk Accounts Kathryn Quinn kat@linkpublishing.co.uk Office therapist Skye MEET THE TEAM Signlink Signlink SignlinkMagazine Printed on Sappi Magno Satin from EBB Paper CBP00015512002182040 Hello and welcome to SignLink April/May! I hope you’re all having a fruitful and busy time with plenty of projects to get stuck into. As I write this, we are preparing to jet off to Amsterdam for FESPA Global Print Expo 2024 and the co-locating European Sign Expo, and with so many industry events happening, I just wanted to draw your attention to the other ways you can access our content. In addition to regularly updating our news site (signlink.co.uk), we post daily news updates on our LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter) accounts (just search SignLink for both), as well as on our Threads account (search printmonthlysignlink). You may have also seen us out and about with our trusty DSLR camera as we cover industry events and pay visits to companies to see behind the doors of their operations. So if video content is more your thing, you can watch all our Sign7 videos on our YouTube Channel (just follow the QR code below), or follow us on Instagram (search printmonthlysignlink). Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy this issue! EDITOR S NOTE Carys Evans 205 Prinses Clementinalaan, Ghent, Belgium Picture: Edwin Deschepper Scan the QR code to watch our video coverage over on our Sign7 YouTube channel
6 Issue 252 - April / May 2024 www.signlink.co.uk INDUSTRY / NEWS signlink signlink signlinkmagazine Industry reacts as UK falls into recession According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), in terms of output, there were falls in all three main sectors in Quarter 4 of 2023 with declines of 0.2% in services, 1.0% in production, and 1.3% in construction output. Speaking to SignLink in light of this news, general manager at the Independent Print Industries Association (IPIA), Brendan Perring, says: “What is currently happening is concerning but I do think there is light at the end of the tunnel. As long as nothing else goes wrong, I think this recession will continue through to the middle of the year.” Perring explains that in the past the print sector economy has not always reflected the general economy as often financial turbulence can cause a big amount of competition and marketing from brands and retailers which fight for a “reduced pool of money”, equating to bigger print volumes. “We always base our IPIA analysis off our constant communication with the grassroots of our members,” says Perring, adding: “Members are saying there’s been a noticeable slowdown and business has gone much quieter recently. This encompasses everything from print procurement to technology and machine investment.” In November 2023 the British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF) released its Printing Outlook which stated that output and orders remained subdued in Q3, but improved confidence meant expectations were positive for Q4. Forecasts at the time expected an improvement in output growth, with the caveat that fewer companies would experience declining growth rather than a seasonal boost for all. Charles Jarrold, chief executive of the BPIF, said: “The survey newly reports on uncertainty levels, thankfully they are now expected to stabilise and, with more than three-fifths of the industry with an excellent, or good, cash flow position, there is well-founded hope for the period ahead. A period in which many companies will be looking to exert further control on their costs and explore what diversification options they are well placed to take advantage of.” Regarding the reasons for instabilities in the market place and consumer confidence, Perring says the increasing number of global issues are all giving consumers and marketers hesitancy when purchasing or making investments. However, despite this Perring remains positive: “My genuine belief is through all the technology we have, the work of associations, and the change in narrative in print, I think print can be in as good a place as print has been in decades.” Brendan Perring estimates the printing industry is close to 98% of overall printing output compared to before the pandemic By David Osgar Neon Creations, a maker of traditional neon signs and art pieces, recently featured on BBC programme, David & Jay’s Touring Toolshed, starring Sir David Jason and Jay Blades MBE. Episode two, which is partly based at the Kelsall Steam Festival in Cheshire, sees Jason and Blades visit Neon Creations in Bolton, where they tried bending glass for neon signs. Speaking to SignLink, Neon Creations co-founder Tony Spink, says: “It was bizarre to see and experience but certainly enjoyable and really good as we’ve had so much support from customers, viewers, and others in the industry.” Spink appeared with glass bending apprentice, Sam Beresford, and both showed Jason and Blades how to bend glass over an open flame with the objective of making a ‘Touring Toolshed’ neon sign. Spink explains: “They were both really interested, asking questions in between filming, and giving everything a lot of thought. It was clear they were craft-minded people. “It was surreal having people of that level be so interested in what you do and asking questions, it was absolutely fascinating and beautiful as they made sure to take the time to talk to us and give us advice and support on our continuing efforts to promote traditional neon.” BBC programme features Bolton-based Neon Creations Camera crew film Spink and Beresford explaining the sign-making process to Jason and Blades Keypoint Intelligence launches DTF test service Keypoint Intelligence, a consulting and market research company that specialises in digital media has given details on its work to test new direct-tofilm (DTF) devices. The company launched its DTF test program in 2023 to keep up with the fast-moving sector which has produced small desktop devices to large 1.6m carriage printers. Tests are conducted in both production and high-quality modes at the manufacturer’s facility over a two-day period where vendors are provided with test files and sample T-shirts. The DTF test focuses on the areas of speed, ink consumption, image quality, and washability, which sees 30ºC and 800rpm washes conducted along with a “hang-dry sensor setting” on a heat pump tumble dryer. Each device then receives a detailed 12-page report gathering all the data for testing ahead of The Pick Awards which rewards the top-performing devices across the year. David Sweetnam, director of Lab Services at Keypoint Intelligence, says: “Over the course of 2024 we will be running a series of group tests to provide more education to this fascinating marketplace. Each group test will investigate a different factor that can affect successful DTF production. The first test will look at washing factors and how they can impact garment durability.” By David Osgar By David Osgar Manufacturers can book a free test and sample report via Keypoint Intelligence
INDUSTRY / NEWS signlink signlink signlinkmagazine 8 Issue 252 - April / May 2024 www.signlink.co.uk Make it Happen Signage Consultancy has announced it will be continuing to expand its presence around the world following previous initiatives throughout the UK and US. The business offers products and workshops to companies and individuals in the signage industry and has expanded the reach of its training workshops and consultancy services over the past seven years. Following a long career within the signage industry, Michelle Henry has now joined Make it Happen as the representative for Australia and New Zealand. Sam Armstrong, former president of the International Sign Association UK (ISA UK) and chief executive officer of Make it Happen, has spearheaded many ways to grow Make it Happen’s reach. Speaking of the latest appointment, Armstrong says: “Michelle brings with her a wealth of experience in the sign and print industry and is the perfect person to represent Make it Happen in this region. “I am thrilled to welcome Michelle to the Make it Happen team and excited to work with her in extending the benefits of our training workshops to clients, colleagues, and associates in Australia and New Zealand.” Workshops for New Zealand and Australia are currently being planned for later this year with potential plans to coincide them with a local trade show. Make it Happen expands to Australia and New Zealand Michelle Henry moved to New Zealand two years ago after falling in love with the country on holiday CVI Group debuts podcast Vinyl wrappers and signage applicators have a new resource for industry tips, knowledge, and business-orientated conversations titled Wrap Cast. The new podcast launched with an introduction episode as well as its first official episode which debuted on January 29th with Rosie Christie, co-owner of architectural wrapping company, Fusion. Wrap Cast has been developed by Creative Visual Installations (CVI) Group, a vehicle wrapping company which delivers industry training at various skill levels. The podcast has been created by host Chris Edwards, director of CVI Group and new company CVP, along with co-host Jordan Kemp who works in the graphics application side of the industry. CVI Group is encouraging listeners and individuals in the industry to share, follow, and provide feedback for the series in order to tailor the podcast in the best way for listeners. Wrap Cast can be found at CVI Group socials and on Spotify. By David Osgar CVI Group is looking for future guests and sponsors in order to build its new platform FASTSIGNS Crawley has helped to transform a ‘state-of-the-art’ STEM Centre in London Gatwick Airport. Aimed at inspiring school children to pursue careers in science, technology, and engineering, the STEM Centre is part of a wider scheme to create educational portals for young people looking at careers in STEM. According to research by the Industrial Strategy Council in 2019, experts predicted that by 2030 the UK could have up to seven million jobs requiring STEM skills. FASTSIGNS Crawley brought the centre to life with signage that would inspire children and teenagers into a career in STEM. The brief was to create inviting, educational, and stimulating signage for a series of rooms including an Archimedes room, each of which is designed to teach young people about the operations of the airport and the technology behind the scenes. FASTSIGNS created a colour-changing lighting solution on the main feature wall as well as printed window frosting, wall graphics, lightboxes, and graphic-mounted signs which created a multi-dimensional finish. Melanie Martinez, director at FASTSIGNS Crawley, comments: “We relish projects that give us the opportunity to combine our knowledge of practical and informative signage, with fun and educational content – and our partnership with London Gatwick enabled us to deliver just that.” FASTSIGNS Crawley brings airport STEM Centre to life Visitors to the centre will be taught about the famous mathematician Archimedes via a series of vivid wall graphics Learn2Print has revealed its Learner of the Year at MacroArt Learn2Print, a provider of training in print and graphics, has announced its Learner of the Year. Geneve Gurr, a member of the MacroArt (a Moss Global Company) print and fabrication team since 2021, was given the award. As a provider of industry-recognised qualifications, Learn2Print works with a variety of companies within the printing industry to upskill workers in the industry as well as to safeguard staff and offer new jobs and opportunities. Sponsored by Heidelberg, the award recognises an individual in print who exhibits ‘exceptional’ qualities and achievements within their learning journey. Gurr’s six tutors all recognised her progression, eagerness for knowledge, and high work standards making it a unanimous decision for her to win the award. Recently MacroArt expanded its training programme with a partnership with Inspire 2 Ignite, which focuses on bridging the gap between NEET (Not in Employment, Education, or Training) youths in the UK. By David Osgar [L to R] Jonathan Bray from Learn2Print and Geneve Gurr, Mark Rose, and Lee Garnett of MacroArt
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INDUSTRY / NEWS signlink signlink signlinkmagazine 10 Issue 252 - April / May 2024 www.signlink.co.uk Storm Arrow Consulting business consultancy launches Alan Gunter has combined his 30-plus years of industry experience to form Arrow Storm Consulting, a signage business consultancy. Drawing on Gunter’s extensive experience, Arrow Storm Consulting went live on December 1st, 2023, and offers mentoring, on-site assessments, and bespoke strategy support. Gunter also offers a department-based service including estimating, procurement, scheduling, or production support. Having started out in the industry with an apprenticeship in traffic management in 1992, Gunter says he formed a firm understanding of the rules and structure of signage and fonts. After a number of years in this field, he moved into the world of commercial signs which included elements of design with traditional sign-making. It was at this stage that Gunter was introduced to CNC routing, digital printing, letter making, sales/estimating, and production and operations management. During this time, Gunter was part of the team that developed an estimating tool called Signtiffic, later known as Clarity. Having been made redundant in September 2023, Gunter decided to utilise his years of experience to help other businesses in the industry. “The biggest mistake I find is that businesses throw labour and resources at problems rather than fix the issues,” he explains. “With a little organisation and streamlining, more time is created in the business for people to make better-informed decisions. “Also, inter-department processes don’t always gel as usually and understandably people do things that best suit them rather than seeing the bigger picture. Procurement is also a double-edged sword as building relationships is vital but also finding the most cost-effective supplier can make the difference between getting a job or losing it to a competitor.” So, what is involved in accessing Storm Arrow Consulting’s services? Gunter explains that depending on the requirement of the individual business, he will conduct a three-day on-site assessment of all processes and procedures which will be used to form a ‘battle plan’. Gunter will then sit down with all stakeholders and work out a strategy to execute this plan. “This is totally bespoke to the needs of the business and can range from one day a month to two or three days a week,” Gunter says. “There are full non-disclosure agreements signed and a fixed length contract is supplied.” Not having enough time is a common pain point that Gunter says crops up regularly and he says these services can enable businesses to increase turnover by creating time for sales and marketing departments to focus on their own tasks more efficiently. “I will put in place systems and processes that will increase gross profit, reduce labour costs, and reduce waste,” he explains. “Through analytics, together we can then identify KPI (Key Performance Indicators) and structure the business to target the areas that give the best results. This will create more profit for the stakeholders and better rewards for a more loyal and productive workforce.” To find out more about how Storm Arrow Consulting could help your business, visit www. arrowstormconsulting.co.uk or contact Alan Gunter on alan@ arrowstormconsulting.co.uk. Alan Gunter, founder of Arrow Storm Consulting, has amassed over 30 years of industry experience A signage business consultancy been launched by Alan Gunter which offers mentoring, on-site assessments, and bespoke strategy support
BUSINESS / NEWS 12 www.signlink.co.uk signlink signlink signlinkmagazine Issue 252 - April / May 2024 Following its acquisition by US graphics company Moss, branding and signage specialist, MacroArt has announced its transition to the Moss brand. MacroArt has emphasised that the new change is more than a rebranding and is a “strategic positioning” which embodies Moss’ “stronger together” ethos. Moss’ production facilities in the US, Germany, Poland, and now the UK enable the organisation to provide support for clients on a national and international basis. Both MacroArt and Moss work with some of the world's biggest brands and agencies to create experiential, entertainment, sport, and retail-focused solutions. SignLink recently spoke with managing director of MacroArt, Michael Green, about the acquisition, how it came about, and what it means for the company going forward. You can check out the full interview on our Sign7 YouTube channel (QR code on P04). The official launch of Moss in the UK will take place on April 10th with sister business Aluvista, which specialises in modular systems and fabrication for tension fabric framing, also moving to the Moss name at the same time. Jason Popp, president, and chief executive officer of Moss, says: “Moving to the Moss name in the UK continues our global strategy of building high-quality branded experiences for clients. “We are place makers, and we want people to feel that excitement and experience wherever they are in the world.” Green adds: “We are proud of our history and the reputation we won as MacroArt. Now, as Moss, we only see this increasing, delivering creative, innovative, and sustainable solutions, supported by both the strength of our team and the wider capabilities of being part of a global group. These are exciting times!” MacroArt to fully transition to Moss brand Members of the UK MacroArt team outside Moss’ Chicago headquarters A state-of-the-art print facility has launched at the former Gardners site in Cardiff in the form of Titchfield Media. Gardners was bought by the tumultuous PFI Group in August 2022 with all 102 staff moving over to the group. However, in November 2023, the company went into administration. Titchfield Group has now acquired all the printing presses and other assets including staff from the former Gardners print site along with a new lease. The group offers a range of solutions from digital LED screens to consultancy for landlords accessing the out-of-home (OOH) advertising market. Titchfield Media now operates from a 67,000sq ft facility with 30 staff members led by managing director Adrian Hallett. The company is said to have the capacity and capability to be a “major player” in the OOH and premium retail print and event sectors. Nigel Brunt, founder of Titchfield, says: “The former team from Gardners are now perfectly positioned to deploy their accumulated experience of over 650 years of industry knowledge and their unrivalled technical resources. “Enabling our capabilities in two fast-growing and profitable sectors of the print market: outof-home and premium retail and events, this is an exciting development.” Titchfield Media launched at former Gardners site Managing director Adrian Hallett will lead the 30-strong steam at Titchfield Media Quadrant2Design expands its business premises Exhibition stand design and build contractor, Quadrant2Design, has expanded its premises with the addition of a new building. Based in Poole, the premises are at the Fulcrum Industrial Estate on Vantage Way and the expansion is said to mark a significant milestone in the company’s 23-year history. Having operated in the current building since 2014, Quadrant2Design has gradually increased its floorspace by expanding mezzanine floors and installing racking to accommodate new equipment. Last year, described as a UK first, the company took delivery of a JETRIX XGR320 UV printer for the production of Photo Floors. Now with the addition of the new building, Quadrant2Design has created a dedicated logistics hub which will enable it to receive and inspect exhibition stand hardware and customer graphics after being at exhibitions. This is in line with the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality, modular, and reusable exhibition stands. Andrew Carney, company director of Quadrant2Design, says: “This natural expansion reminds us of the company’s physical growth, a tangible representation of our successful business model. Obviously, it makes me feel very happy we’ve grown whilst remaining extremely profitable as a company.” By Carys Evans By David Osgar By David Osgar
BUSINESS / NEWS signlink signlink signlinkmagazine 14 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 252 - April / May 2024 Uniguest and onemedia sign distribution deal Uniguest and onemedia have signed an exclusive distribution agreement for MediaStar and eStream platforms in the UK and Ireland. MediaStar IPTV offers streaming and digital signage distribution management globally. EStream is a video platform that supports teaching and learning goals through video libraries, lecture capture, content sharing, and content cataloguing technology. As a result of the agreement, the MediaStar and eStream platforms will now be available exclusively through onemedia. This partnership enables Uniguest to expand its market reach and offer a broader range of products via onemedia. John Jeffreys, sales and marketing director of onemedia, says: “eStream is a product that we’ve admired for many years, so to now add this to our portfolio is significant. “We feel that there is a genuine opportunity to develop the eStream business further afield in the Higher Education and Enterprise markets and we look forward to doing this in partnership with our trade customers.” Tim Hoddy, vice president of sales, Europe at Uniguest, adds: “Our mission at Uniguest is clear, world class digital engagement technology to allow our clients to communicate better.” [L to R] John Jefferies, sales and marketing director and Chris Wood, sales director at onemedia; and Shaun Oxenham, EVP of Major Accounts at Uniguest Premier Paper Group has struck an exclusive deal to distribute Diplast, a twinwall fluted polypropylene used for short-term signage applications. The deal means Premier will have exclusive distribution rights for the material throughout the UK via Premier and Ireland via GPMI, which Premier acquired in January 2023. Diplast is known for its durability, lightweight construction, and recyclability, which is offered in a variety of bespoke sizes, colours, and thicknesses. The product’s ability to be recycled and carbon captured via Premier’s carbon capture scheme in the UK and Carbon Balanced in Ireland means Diplast fits with the company’s environmental goals. Diplast’s uses extend across various industries including point-of-sale (POS), signage, packaging, and traffic/road management. Steve Jones, director of Display Sheets and Thermoplastics at Premier, comments: "This partnership marks a significant milestone for Premier. Diplast is a fantastic product for the signage industry." Premier will be undertaking nationwide delivery of the exclusive polypropylene product Premier Paper strikes exclusive deal with Diplast Soyang Hardware opens newly upgraded showroom Supplier of wide- and superwide-format print hardware, Soyang Hardware, has opened its newly upgraded showroom in Cambridgeshire. Formerly the Josero site, the new facility is just 20 minutes from Cambridge and features a range of hardware from manufacturers such as Fujifilm, Ricoh, and Mimaki. Featuring at the premises are Fujifilm’s Acuity Prime Hybrid LED UV machine capable of both rigid and roll-to-roll printing; the Ricoh Pro Latex L5160e featuring three staggered Ricoh printheads; and several of Mimaki’s wide-format printers. Also included in the lineup is the KeenCut SteelTrak. As well as experiencing live machinery demonstrations, visitors to the Soyang Hardware showroom can speak with experts about how the technology can help their businesses to succeed. The Cambridgeshire facility is in addition to Soyang’s existing Accrington showroom which opened in March 2023. This site houses a range of printing equipment, sewing machinery, flatbed printers, routers, and cutters. “We’re delighted to be opening another specialist showroom, allowing visitors from the south of the UK and further afield to find out more about our leading range of hardware solutions,” says Sarah Fenna, sales director (Hardware Division) of Soyang Hardware. Soyang Hardware has opened its new showroom in Cambridgeshire Citing economic challenges in Europe, Fujifilm increased prices for a range of its hardware, consumables, and services from March 18th. The company, which is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year, says the news comes as the European market continues to be impacted by “geopolitical influences and inflationary challenges”. Some of the challenges listed by the company include an unprecedented increase in labour costs; sharply rising freight and warehousing rates; continuously high energy prices; and increased prices from Fujifilm’s own suppliers. “Despite our best efforts to absorb the impact of these increases, we can no longer avoid raising the prices of many of our products and services,” says Taku Ueno, senior vice president of Fujifilm Graphic Communications, Europe. The prices have increased by double digit percentages with the exact amount dependent on the product range. Customers directly affected will be contacted by Fujiflm. “At Fujifilm we remain committed to providing high quality products and services,” Ueno adds. Fujifilm has increased the prices of a range of its hardware, consumables, and services from March 18th Fujifilm increases prices By Carys Evans By Carys Evans
18 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 252 - April / May 2024 DIGITAL / NEWS signlink signlink signlinkmagazine Clear Channel brings positive news Out-of-home (OOH) company Clear Channel UK has announced its partnership with Positive News in an effort to display more uplifting stories to the public. The new collaboration means a curated selection of socially relevant good news stories by Positive News will be displayed on Clear Channel’s 3,500+ digital out-ofhome (DOOH) screens in high streets and shopping centres throughout the UK. Ben Hope, marketing director at Clear Channel UK, says: “In a world filled with clickbait headlines and negative narratives, we are aiming to bring alternative, credible news content to local communities and add more positivity to people’s everyday lives. “OOH, as a highly trusted media channel, is perfectly placed to amplify the rigorous journalistic work of the team at Positive News who share our vision of making a positive societal difference. This partnership is an opportunity to put a smile on your face, and what’s not to love about that?” The collaboration is the first time Clear Channel has partnered with a content publisher in the UK and is part of its ongoing efforts to improve public spaces and give back to communities. As a Platform for Good, the company donated around £20m worth of media space to 50 charities in 2023. Posters for the campaign will highlight UK stories which differ from traditional news outlets or social media, including stories about sustainability, inspiring people, communities, and organisations trying to better the world. Sean Wood, chief executive officer at Positive News, comments: “With studies revealing that a huge volume of the British public now avoid the news because it brings them down, we’re offering an empowering alternative. “This exciting partnership with Clear Channel will give prominence to positive headlines at scale, helping people discover that it’s not all doom and gloom and an incredible amount of positive change is happening. Together with Clear Channel, we’re breaking the bad news bias.” Ocean Outdoor teams with DeaflympicsGB After its long-term association with the Olympic movement, digital out-of-home (DOOH) provider Ocean Outdoor has partnered with UK Deaf Sport and DeaflympicsGB. The organisations have come together to launch the first outof-home campaign calling for ‘Fair Play for Deaf Athletes’ by lobbying the Government to end the discrimination taking place against elite deaf athletes. The Deaflympics is one of the four Olympic events recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) while UK Deaf Sport is the recognised International Federation for Deaf Sport in the UK. The partnership with Ocean Outdoor means UK Deaf Sport will receive airtime across Ocean’s DOOH portfolio in the UK, with special content, highlights, and sporting clips centred around competitions like the Winter Deaflympics which began on March 2nd, 2024, in Turkey. “This partnership reinforces our commitment to the Olympic movement and complements the success of our long-term agreement with Team GB, which dates back to 2015, our gold partnership with ParalympicsGB, and our commitment to Special Olympics GB,” says Kevin Henry, Ocean’s head of content and sponsorship. Henry adds: “Becoming the only UK media partner to have agreements with all four organisations within the Olympic family allows Ocean as a business to deliver on its EDI (Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion) objectives and help transform lives by shining a spotlight on children and adults of all abilities through the opportunity of sport.” UK Deaf Sport works with key organisations to ensure deaf children, young people, and adults have equal opportunities and enter and support all deaf sports teams competing abroad in European and World Deaf Sport Championships. Joanne Cholerton, chief executive officer at UK Deaf Sport, says: “UK Deaf Sport is thrilled to announce a partnership with Ocean Outdoor. There are 12 million deaf adults in the UK, and they are one of the least active groups. This partnership will enable UK Deaf Sport to amplify our messages across the UK. “By raising awareness of the Deaflympics, deaf sport, and deaf athletes through this support from Ocean Outdoor, we aim to inspire more deaf children and adults to get active and feel the social, physical, and mental health benefits this brings.” [L to R] Deaf athletes Nathan Young (swimmer), Oliver Pritchard (triathlete), and Claire Stancliffe (footballer) at London’s Westfield Stratford City. Image: Ocean Outdoor The news of the collaboration has been revealed following a growth in readership at Positive News By David Osgar By David Osgar
19 email: sales@signlink.co.uk Issue 252 - April / May 2024
KIT & MEDIA / NEWS 20 www.signlink.co.uk signlink signlink signlinkmagazine Issue 252 - April / May 2024 Canon has launched two new series of large-format printers: the 7-colour imagePROGRAF GP series and the 12-colour imagePROGRAF PRO series both made for use in high-end production. The imagePROGRAF GP series is designed for high-quality posters and graphic arts for both commercial and in-house service providers, while the imagePROGRAF PRO is designed for use in the photography and fine art markets. The GP series comprises three models: the 60”/1524mm imagePROGRAF GP-6600s, the 44”/1118mm GP-4600S, and the 24”/610mm GP-2600S. The printers use a new pigment inkset called LUCIA PRO II which can print on A0 size posters on uncoated paper within 48 seconds with an expanded gamut of vibrant and accurately reproduced colours. The new inkset includes orange and grey which can reproduce more vivid and eye-catching colours along with more accurate skin tones. The colour gamut reproducible by the imagePROGRAF GP series can accurately hit 96% of the PANTONE FORMULA GUIDE Solid Coated sample book, making it fitting for printing corporate colours. The imagePROGRAF PRO series in- cludes the 60”/1524mm imagePROGRAF PRO-6600, the 44”/1118mm PRO-4600, and the 24”/610mm PRO-2600. Both series became available in March 2024 across EMEA and will also be showcased at drupa 2024 from May 28th to June 7th. Canon launches new imagePROGRAF printers The new printers will be showcased live at drupa 2024 on the Canon stand in Hall 8A Alfalite updates UHD panels Alfalite, a European LED screen manufacturer based in Spain, has announced its new UHD Finepix LED panels with new AlfaCOB technology. The panels, which are manufactured at Alfalite’s headquarters in Huelva, Spain, are a new mechanical and electronic design of the Alfalite UHD Finepix predecessors. The panels’ pixel pitch ranges from 0.6 to 1.8mm and are manufactured with AlfaCOB, an evolution of the brand’s ORIM technology, for mounting on MicroLED or MiniLED in Package (MIP). Jesús Cabrera, chief executive officer of Alfalite, says: “Unlike most LED display brands, Alfalite is not a mass manufacturer; rather we like to think of ourselves as a boutique manufacturer that focuses on quality and innovation. “That's why we are delighted to present this new UHD Finepix AlfaCOB solution in which our engineers give it unique and exceptional electrical and mechanical characteristics.” The new panels offer enhanced quality as well as an All in One Media Player and voice control Hybrid Services, the exclusive distributor for Mimaki printers in the UK and Ireland, has recently shared the success of Mimaki’s latest industrial dye-sublimation printer, the Tiger600-1800TS. Colourama, a Polish textile printer based in Loetz (referred to as ‘the Manchester of the East’ due to its importance in the textile printing market), installed the Mimaki Tiger600-1800TS in the summer of 2023. The company chose the printer due to its speed and its rewind system which benefits Colourama when jumbo rolls of printed paper are loaded onto the calendar for transferring to fabric. Colourama delivers heat transfer paper printing for the fashion/apparel, décor, and contract textile sectors and has been heavily involved in the final market test of Mimaki’s Tiger6001800TS. Andrew Gregory, sales director at Hybrid Services, visited the company to see first-hand how the machine was performing. Gregory says: “My trip to Poland gave a fascinating insight into how Mimaki’s latest industrial printing solution is helping an already established high production print house increase its volume even further, and the opportunity it offers for UK and Irish companies to do the same.” The new Tiger600-1800 TS is faster than its predecessor and features a staggered printhead arrangement and stable nozzle performance for great consistency and speed. Hybrid hails Colourama Mimaki Tiger investment Andrew Gregory from Hybrid Services recently visited Poland to visit Mimaki customer, Colourama Bulldog Display invests in a Gibson hybrid printer Bulldog Display has purchased a Gibson GT-H3200R6 UV hybrid printer through equipment seller Repro Sales & Repairs (RSR). A relatively new brand to the UK, Gibson is sold alongside flatbed and hybrid machines recently made available in the Western market including Xenons, Focus, and iEcho. These flatbed and hybrid LED-UV printers are designed to meet the demands of businesses that produce graphics for exhibitions, product launches, and retail takeovers. Recent examples of Bulldog’s work include a 6m-high advent calendar shaped like a rocket as well as a giant replica drink can. To meet demand the company purchased the new Gibson with a combined 3.2m flatbed and roll feeding capacity, which it says has saved the business money compared to purchasing a more expensive machine. A big change for the company has also been the introduction of UV inks, differentiating from the solvent inks used by its previous Refretonic 3.2m Eco Solvent Printer. Bulldog Display has nine members of staff and a 10,000sq ft premises in Maidenhead By David Osgar By David Osgar
24 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 252 - April / May 2024 PEOPLE / NEWS email: news@signlink.co.uk Sharp NEC Display Solutions UK has expanded its sales team with the addition of Sian Cotty on the end-user sales team and Kate Butcher on the channel sales team. According to the company, both additions bring a wealth of professional experience and industry knowledge. Echoing the theme from digital signage trade exhibition, ISE 2024 of ‘Towards Tomorrow’ Sharp/NEC sees itself as continuing to evolve on its joint venture as it focuses on quality, service, and sustainability. End-user account manager, Sian Cotty, has been recruited to drive new business development. With previous experience in client-centred industries Sharp/NEC felt she perfectly fit with the company’s ethos. Cotty says: “Innovation and collaboration are deeply rooted in the Sharp/NEC culture, and I am delighted to join a company that encourages employees to push boundaries and explore creative solutions.” Kate Butcher has joined the channel sales team bringing with her ten years of sales experience in channel and AV services including time at Peerless-AV and Airtame. Helen Sheldrake, channel sales manager for Sharp/ NEC, says: “Kate hit the ground running at ISE, getting up to speed with our wide range of products, ready to provide our channel partners with the excellent support they have come to expect from Sharp/NEC, welcome Kate!” Cotty concludes: “A sense of camaraderie and shared achievement is very evident amongst the team, and I already feel fully supported to add value and make an impact.” Sharp/NEC grows UK sales team [L to R] Sian Cotty, end-user account manager and Kate Butcher, channel account manager at Sharp/NEC Promotion at InkTec Thirlby will oversee the finance and service teams as well as employee welfare and development InkTec, a manufacturer of inkjet ink, JETRIX printers, and media for the indoor and outdoor advertisement market, has announced a new appointment within the company. Michelle Thirlby has been promoted to operations director meaning she will manage the daily operations of the company as well as oversee the finance and service teams. InkTec has experienced several significant changes with its team over the past year which it says is a reflection of its growth within the wide-format sector and its expanding operations in the UK, Europe, and its headquarters in South Korea. Thirlby comments: “I’ve faced a variety of challenges during my time at InkTec so far, and this promotion allows me to continue building and developing the operations side of the business to push the company forward.” BCS Group, which is a part of the Barhale group of companies, has announced Paul Brown as its new head of Signs and Supplies. Brown has previously led sales and operations for a manufacturing and supply company focusing on workwear and PPE for the rail industry, developing new business relationships and spearheading the company’s warehouse overhaul. Previously Brown worked as a regional manager for seven years at one of the world’s largest safety equipment distributors. James Mulchinock, BCS Group director, comments: “Paul comes to us with an outstanding understanding of the construction and safety equipment business and a proven track record of commercial success.” New head of Signs and Supplies at BCS Group Pyramid Display Materials has announced the latest member of its team in its Gateshead Branch. Vicky Hudson is joining as a sales representative, bringing with her a wealth of experience and expertise after working for ten years at William Smith Group as an account manager. Pyramid Display says: “We are confident that [Hudson] will make a valuable contribution to our organisation and help us continue to grow and thrive.” The company is part of the Grimco family, a wholesale sign supply manufacturer and distributor. Vicky Hudson joins Pyramid Display Materials after working at William Smith Group for ten years Paul Brown has been appointed as the new head of Signs and Supplies at BCS Group Pyramid Display Materials makes new appointment Signbox, a full-service, design, print, and sign manufacturer, has announced the appointment of Hayley Hodgson as general manager of the company. Hodgson brings with her 18 years of experience working within the signage industry having most recently worked at Octink for 14 years. “In my time in the industry, I have focused on the professional and personal growth of myself and my teams,” says Hodgson, adding: “I have known about Signbox for a long time, and I know they are a forward-thinking company with a fantastic culture for innovation and excellence in sign-making. I am also keen to get more involved in new sectors and products.” Signbox announces its new general manager Hodgson was brought on board due to her strength as a leader and her ability to identify strengths within her team By David Osgar
EVENTS / NEWS 26 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 252 - April / May 2024 signlink signlink signlinkmagazine The 2024 Visual Merchandising and Display Show (VM & Display Show) has highlighted some of the features of this year’s exhibition which comes after a growing presence within the display and retail calendar. Despite the disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic, the VM & Display Show is a staple show for visual merchandising and display professionals with this year’s event being its 33rd year. Recent demands for more sustainable and tactile display materials have meant more and more print and signage companies have exhibited and visited each year. Exhibitors and brands at this year’s show include (subject to change) Antalis, Applelec, Brownings, FaberExposize UK, Glitter Walls, Innotech, MediaCo Group, and Service Graphics. This year’s show also includes the new POPAI Zone, an area run by the industry association for shopper marketing which will highlight cutting-edge trends in shopper marketing via seminars, masterclasses, and networking opportunities. Topics at the seminars will include shopper marketing, sustainability, and digital display with experts there to network and advise suppliers, brands, and industry enthusiasts. The exhibition has also highlighted the evolving nature of the high street as a ‘cornerstone’ for the local economy, community, culture, and commerce as well as the importance of experiential retail. UK exhibition looks to ‘revitalise’ the high street The exhibition will take place from April 16th to 17th at the Business Design Centre in London ISE 2024 breaks all records Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) has revealed its 2024 show broke all records previously set by the exhibition regarding visitors and attendance. This year’s show celebrated its 20th anniversary and was held at the Fira de Barcelona Gran Via, where the show attracted 73,891 unique verified attendees from 162 countries. The visitor numbers are the highest ever recorded since the show began in Geneva back in 2004. As well as visitors the show also had its highest-ever number of exhibitors (1,408) and its largest-ever amount of used floor space, totalling a net of 82,000sq m. Wednesday (January 31st) achieved its highest number of visitors in one day with 51,617 visitors, a 22% increase from the previous record. Overall, ISE 2024 attracted 172,627 visits across the four days, packing many of Barcelona’s hotels, bars, and entertainment venues with exhibitors also reporting “unparalleled footfall” on stands across the exhibition. By David Osgar This year’s show used #ISE20Years and #ISE2024 to share updates of the show on social media Taking place at Hilton Birmingham Metropole at the NEC, The Sign & Wrap Awards (previously The Sign Awards) celebrated a variety of different projects, businesses, and individuals within the sign, wrap, and wide-format print industry. Winners included Sign Reload (Unsung Hero), Astley (Best in Show - Signage), Cube Branding (Best in Show - Wrap), Off The Wall Creative (Young Signmaker and Signage Company of the Year Under 30), Patrick McGowan from Off the Wall (Industry Champion), and Blaze Signs (Signage Company of the Year 30+). Hosted by ITV weather presenter Emma Jessop, the evening gave attendees the chance to catch up, network, and celebrate following a year of big projects and continuing hurdles for businesses to tackle. This year saw vinyl wrapping categories included meaning an even larger variety of businesses and projects were nominated. Looking at the nominees and winners it was also clear to see the increased standard from previous years and the continuing diversity of projects as evident in categories like the Rollout award, which included projects featuring fabricated signage, print, and signwriting. Many businesses took home multiple awards thanks to the Gold, Silver, and Bronze rankings which included awards like Printed Wrap – Out of the Ordinary and Architectural Film Project. Wrap and signage celebrated in glittering award ceremony The Sign & Wrap Awards are run by the team behind Vism (now Vantage) and The UK Graphic Awards FESPA UK Association kicks off its 2024 events FESPA UK Association held its first Next Generation event of 2024 at Coventry Transport Museum on February 21st. The Next Generation initiative launched last year and saw various events hosted across the UK including collaborations with Zünd and Liyu UK and appearances at exhibitions such as The Print Show in September 2023. The initiative has been created to meet the demand for more young skilled professionals in the print, signage, and graphics industries as well as to provide networking opportunities for young people. The latest event focused on sales and communication with a training workshop focusing on sales techniques, enhancing communication skills, and adapting to the modern landscape of the industry. Kennedy Ross provided the training and was handpicked by FESPA UK due to its attention to detail and engagement with young participants. The event was attended by The Printing Charity which provided a short Q&A about its Rising Star Awards. By David Osgar The first Next Gen event for 2024 focused on sales and communication
Register at: www.theprintshow.co.uk | 0117 980 5049 | sales@theprintshow.co.uk @theprintshow The Print Show The UK’s Largest Dedicated Print Exhibition BOOK YOUR STAND SPACEat 17-19 September 2024 NEC Birmingham The UK’s only event dedicated to showcasing the latest printing technology There is simply no replacement for seeing new print technologies up close in person. The Print Show provides the platform for manufacturers and suppliers to come together to showcase their products to a diverse audience from all corners of the print and sign industry. With prices starting at just £2,475 for a 9 sqm stand, there’s never been a more cost-effective way to put your business in front of over 5,000 industry professionals. From the largest litho print houses, through to independent print, design and marketing businesses together with sign companies, we ensure you can connect with brand new prospects from across the market. 2024 WELCOMING OVER 35KVISITORS SINCE 2015 Fascia measure 300mm deep All posts measure 40mm x 40mm SHELL SCHEME PACKAGE £275 per sq metre +VAT SPACE ONLY PACKAGE Floor space £250 per sq metre +VAT Options for exhibiting at the Print Show 2024 VISITORS: EXHIBITORS: SPEAKERS: TOTAL: 2023 figures
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