Issue 247 - June / July 2023 www.signlink.co.uk Sign Painting Corner Sam Roberts gives us a look at what goes into producing a ceiling mural Page 34 David Allen: ISA-UK president ISA-UK has formally named David Allen of Allen Signs as its new president Page 06 Retro station signs installed New train station signage has given a ‘nod to the past’ thanks to funding Page 07 Sustainable Signage Solutions Rob Fletcher looks at some of the sustainable solutions for signage Page 59 Q&A: Michelle Henry We speak to Henry, a judge at The Sign Awards about being on the panel Page 30 First Acuity Prime L bought Netherlands-based A1 Signs has become the first to purchase an Acuity Prime L Page 12 Image: Ocean Outdoor 06 Industry Coronation celebrations for all to see
3 Industry The latest must-know news from across the sign and display sector Business The lowdown on the latest deals, ventures, and growth in business Kit & Media The latest in cutting-edge machines, materials, and installations Environment The latest environmentally-friendly initiatives and products Events All the details you need on recent and upcoming shows and conferences News CONTENTS Issue 247 June / July 2023 Specials Under the Hood Brian Sims looks under the hood of Summa’s F Series of flatbed finishing systems and the wide range of options that are available Under the Hood Brian Sims takes a look at swissQprint’s Kudu flatbed printer which first launched at FESPA Global Print Expo 2022 in Berlin Market Trends Rigid Substrates Rob Fletcher highlights the latest developments in the rigid substrates market and how these can help sign-makers advance their work Back to Basics CNC Routers and Software Rob Fletcher finds out how the latest CNC routing equipment and software solutions can help businesses to achieve new levels of quality Business Opportunities Wayfinding Signage David Osgar explores the role wayfinding signage plays and the key measurements for a successful project in this area Need to Know Sustainable Signage Substrates Rob Fletcher takes a look at some of the more planet-friendly materials sign-makers can use to producer greener applications Taste for Success Exhibition Stand Systems Carys Evans speaks to some producers of exhibition stand systems about the trends and challenges in this area Company Spotlight 2601 has established itself as more than just a printer. Carys Evans speaks with the founders to get an idea of the vast range of work the company offers Q&A: Michelle Henry Carys Evans speaks with Michelle Henry, a judge at this year’s Sign Awards about what it’s like to go from applying for awards herself to judging them Industry Tips SignTracker founder Joe Arenella offers his advice with a five-step approach on overseeing a successful sign project Sign Painting Corner Sam Roberts speaks with two sign painters who completed a unique mural job on the ceiling of a building in Panama 06 08 12 14 18 41 51 49 59 22 32 34 30 26 email: news@signlink.co.uk Issue 247 - June / July 2023 24 Features Get to Grips Tapes and Adhesives Rob Fletcher gets to grips with the latest products in this area of the market and how they can help to ensure safe and solid installations 37 65 GHOST SIGN CORNER: Ballarat Bertie This beautifully preserved sign pictures Ballarat Bertie, one-time mascot for the Ballarat Brewing Company in Victoria, Australia. The company was founded in 1910 when three local breweries amalgamated in order to fight the encroaching competition from the Melbourne-based CUB Brewing Company. In 1926, the brewery director ran into an advertising agency representative on a train trip. They began discussing the possibility of creating a mascot for the brewery similar to that of Johnnie Walker whiskey. It was as the train pulled into Sydney that Ballarat Bertie was born. Bertie quickly became an icon, not just for the brewery but for the town of Ballarat itself. His image appeared on beer bottles, merchandise, and advertisements in newspapers. And, of course, on walls. During the Second World War, sailors on HMS Ballarat adopted Bertie as their mascot, and the current warship continues this tradition. By 1958, Ballarat Brewing had been sold to their one-time rival, CUB Brewing Company, and in 1991 Ballarat Bitter was discontinued. However, in 2006, the crew of HMS Ballarat lobbied to have it brewed once again with a limited run of the beer selling out within days. Ballarat Bertie, however, lives on. Lyons Street South, Ballarat, Victoria, Australia Photograph and research courtesy of Sean Reynolds, @melbourne_ghostsigns on instagram. Sam Roberts is the editor and publisher of BLAG (Better Letters Magazine) Online: www.bl.ag and www.ghostsigns.co.uk Social Media: @betterletters (instagram) @ghostsigns (twitter)
Issue 247 - June / July 2023 4 ISSUE 247June / July 2023 email: news@signlink.co.uk Publishing director Page Tuck Sales director Chris Davies Lead contributor Rob Fletcher Contributors Brian Sims, Sam Roberts, Joe Arenella Contact Editorial: 0117 980 5040 Sales: 0117 960 3255 Production: 0117 980 5041 Accounts: 0117 980 5042 Find us online www.signlink.co.uk signlink signlink signlinkmagazine 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 t: 0117 980 5040 e: carys@linkpublishing.co.uk @signlinkeditor EDITOR'S Note signlink signlink signlinkmagazine Back to Basics CNC Routers & Software 45 Business Opportunities Wayfinding Signage 52 55 Need to Know Sustainable Signage Materials Events A flying start to 2023 for The Print Show 16 Industry WrapFest hailed a success 07 Adventures in Sign Painting A Ceiling Mural in Panama City 34 Q&A Michelle Henry 30 Hello and welcome to our June/July issue of SignLink! As always, it’s been a hectic and busy time (in the best way) with plenty of industry events, product launches, acquisitions, and more all keeping us on our toes – not to mention the King’s Coronation and Eurovision Song Contest! From DOOH takeovers to window graphics, posters, and flags, it was certainly hard to miss the fact that the historic Coronation was taking place in the UK with all the signage on show (P06). The industry event calendar has also been full with the inaugural WrapFest held at Silverstone Race Track in April hailed a success, and The Sign Awards revealing they will return in 2024 as the Sign & Wrap Awards due to the popularity of the 2023 event (P07). With the industry being kept nice and busy, there have been a number of promotions and appointments with SignFab internally promoting not one, but four members of staff (P08), and a young recruit who found his place in the signage industry through a jobs fair being praised (P07). As usual our Features and Specials cover a range of topics from CNC Routers and Software (P51) to the Sustainable Signage Materials on offer to help your business be greener (P59). Joe Arenella offers his tips for running a successful sign company (P32), and Sam Roberts gives us a look behind the scenes of a tricky ceiling mural job in Panama in his Adventures of Sign Painting column (P37). I hope you enjoy and please do get in touch with any news you have to share! Carys Business Route Media continues to expand 10
6 Issue 247 - June / July 2023 www.signlink.co.uk INDUSTRY / NEWS signlink signlink signlinkmagazine Coronation celebrations for all to see The recent Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla acted as an opportunity for signage, display, and out-of-home (OOH) and digital out-of-home (DOOH) companies to showcase royal-themed products as well as aid and adorn the Coronation itself. OOH owner and supplier Ocean Outdoor marked the celebration with colourful messages across its UK-wide estate as well as coverage on London’s Piccadilly Lights, owned by Landsec. As the Royal procession and Coronation ceremony took place, specially designed content played across roadside screens for three hours on May 6th while a special five-hour presentation was displayed on the Piccadilly Lights screen space, owned by Landsec as well as a photograph of the newly crowned King and Queen following the ceremony. Ocean Outdoor also supported The Big Help Out scheme in the weeks running up to the Coronation, as well as the days following. The scheme offers an opportunity for people to lend a hand with volunteering projects for local community projects. OOH supplier and specialist in advertising street furnishing, JCDecaux, also showed Coronation highlights from its entire UK estate showcasing fun advertisements including giant crowns, royal-themed food, and regal-themed graphics. As well as billboard advertising, many stores implemented a variety of Coronation-themed point of sale and prints. Supermarket chain Tesco found itself mocked online for its questionable placements of Coronation-themed posters and prints in its stores. A Royal Warrant Holder for print services to The Royal Household, Hobs Repro designed some eye-catching window displays to celebrate the King’s Coronation. In celebration of the momentous day, Hobs produced window designs using patriotic colours and with inspiration drawn from oil-painted portraits synonymous with the Royal Family. “Celebrating the Coronation has been an exciting way to refresh our shop front windows, whilst highlighting how our print services can help our customers to mark the occasion themselves,” said the company. Described as ‘more than just a print company’, Hobs has worked with architects, engineers, and construction workers for decades and provides a full-service offering, from concept to design. (Above left) Digital screens, billboards, and signage throughout the UK commemorated the occasion (Above right) Hobs Repro, a Royal Warrant Holder produced window graphics for its sites Advertising to cover Marble Arch Out-of-home (OOH) company, Ocean Outdoor, has been given planning consent to erect a purpose-built sleeve to cover London’s iconic Marble Arch. The revenue generated by advertising on the 19th Century Arch will help support conservation charity English Heritage to repair the London landmark. Tom Gannagé-Stewart, head of corporate partnerships and sponsorship at English Heritage, says: “English Heritage is a charity and the income generated by Ocean will go a long way towards supporting our conservation and repair of Marble Arch.” The hoarding will cover six arches and four panels in total, facing traffic and pedestrians on either side of the intersection. The project will ensure the preservation of the landmark which was originally designed as the state entrance to Buckingham Palace before being moved in 1851. The advertising sleeve will be made to fit the architecture of the famous white landmark and will still highlight the three main gated arches of the structure. The conservation of Marble Arch is scheduled for this summer and will be completed by autumn 2024 The ISA-UK has formally announced David Allen as its new president. Previous president Sam Armstrong will continue to support Allen for a period of 12 months before the appointment of a new vice president. Armstrong took on the role of president two years ago with the aim of making the association represent standards, education, and support within the signage industry. When Armstrong took on the role, many big changes were made including restructuring membership fees to make them more affordable and to encourage companies of all types and sizes to join. Allen who is currently the managing director of Allen Signs, has a wealth of experience in signage thanks to his family-run business being founded by his parents back in 1965. Allen says: “My father always believed membership of a recognised trade body was vital to show to customers that he was serious about his business and the service he delivered. “Nearly 50 years later, to take over the presidency of that same association is something I’m very proud to do.” ISA-UK provides its partners and members access to services designed to grow their businesses By David Osgar & Carys Evans By David Osgar By David Osgar David Allen announced as president
email: news@signlink.co.uk 7 INDUSTRY / NEWS Issue 247 - June / July 2023 Editorial: 0117 980 5040 Sales: 0117 960 3255 The first dedicated event from FESPA for vehicle wrapping, vinyl installation, and detailing has been praised by attendees and hailed a success by its organisers. WrapFest welcomed nearly 800 individual wrap professionals and played host to over 35 global brands from different parts of the industry, all showcasing their products and innovations. Solutions included graphics, colour-change, and paint protection films, window tints, digital printing, design software, cleaning products, and tools. Exhibitors such as HP, ADAPT, 3M, William Smith, Spandex, and pole position sponsor Hexis were all available for live demonstrations. Attending the event at Silverstone Race Circuit, it was clear to see it was unlike any other in the industry as the location invoked a more relaxed and informal setting. The venue meant two halls housed exhibitors, interactive zones, and speaker areas, while downstairs the vehicle pit garages played host to demonstrations and competitions such as the World Wrap Masters. The event also meant a variety of new products were launched including APA’s bespoke Silverstone Green vinyl wrap, created exclusively for WrapFest, as well as 3M and its Black 2080 Wrap film series high gloss, Star Vinyls’ Luxe Lightwrap range, and Innotech’s launch of General Formulations' DRIFT vinyl. Attending the event, Matthew Abel from Encore Customs, said: “I've never been to an event like WrapFest before. I had some really interesting discussions with experts and discovered many new suppliers such as APA and Grafityp with Omega Skinz, which I found really eye-opening, particularly as I have recently started my own business.” WrapFest hailed a success Founded in 1962, FESPA is a global federation of Associations for various sectors of the print industry Manufacturer and installer of bespoke and digital signage, Hardy Signs, has discussed the successful onboarding of its latest workshop operative, and a visit from local member of parliament Kate Kniveton. As the MP for Burton and Uttoxeter, Kniveton holds an annual job fair which was visited by Harry Rodger who went on to work for Hardy Signs as a result. After speaking to 23 different applicants, both experienced and junior, Hardy Signs decided Rodger was the best fit for the company, leading to his recruitment in October 2022. Kniveton later visited Hardy Signs to see the progress that Rodger had made since his appointment. “The jobs fair had a real buzz, and I know those that attended found it a worthwhile experience. Harry is a real success story of this event and goes to show what a valuable opportunity it can be,” Kniveton comments. Initially, Rodger was apprehensive about working for a well-known local company, especially as it was his first job. However, the workshop operative has since gained confidence having worked on several high-profile projects including wrapping 13 Mercedes Sprinter Minibuses for West Midlands Bus on Demand. Rodger says: “Living in Burton, I’ve always been aware of the company, as you see the name everywhere, but I didn’t imagine I’d ever be working full-time for such a well-known and respected place. I would wholly recommend to others in future that they attend the jobs fair to see what job opportunities might be open to them”. Hardy Signs is an award-winning manufacturer which supplies a wide range of business sectors Young recruit celebrated at Hardy Signs Greater Anglia has recently unveiled new retro-style signage at its Brundall Gardens train station in Norfolk. The station has been cared for by adopter and nearby resident Greg Chandler for almost 20 years. Due to significant investment from Greater Anglia in recent months, the station has received new signage which offers a fresh new look with a “nod to the past”. The signage has been constructed by Chandler and his son who collaborated on the frames and mahogany architrave needed for the boards. The installation was then completed with the assistance of project delivery site manager for Greater Anglia, Phil Hogg. Retro sign installed at Norfolk railway station [L to R] Gillian Lincoln, Martin Halliday, Greg Chandler, and Phil Hogg The Sign Awards expands its reach for 2024 event The Sign Awards 2023 took place in March in Birmingham's Town Hall After the success of The Sign Awards 2023, organisers have revealed the newly titled Sign & Wrap Awards will take place in 2024. The Sign Awards was the first dedicated awards ceremony for UK signage in four years and saw over 100 submissions across 11 categories. The newly rebranded Sign & Wrap Awards will introduce five new categories which will cover printed vehicle wraps for both traditional and unique vehicles as well as fleet work, full colour changes, and architectural film projects. The event will return to Birmingham in 2024 with a date to be announced later in the year. By David Osgar By David Osgar
Preston-based Optimum Signs is the first UK company to purchase printIQ’s V46 MIS. Launched in March, the ‘Version 46’ software has over 30 new features and updates with printIQ demonstrating the cloud-based MIS at Sign and Digital UK. New to the V46 is a ‘Sign Off’ app which allows iPhone or Android phone users to upload all information directly to a job bag, review, check, sign off large-format print and signage jobs from anywhere and anytime. Optimum Signs invests in printIQ V46 MIS PPDS exclusive digital display supplier for F1 Exclusive distributor of Philips displays, PPDS, has been named as the exclusive digital display supplier for the Oracle Red Bull Racing team. The news follows a successful stint as Official Team Supplier in 2022 where PPDS transformed the race day experience for VIP guests in the Oracle Red Bull Racing Paddock Club through advanced custom visual solutions. Now, as the exclusive digital display supplier, PPDS will provide the F1 World Championship team with a host of advanced, custom-specified, and specially designed Philips professional displays and monitors. Global out-of-home (OOH) media agency, Talon, has announced it has acquired independent OOH specialist, Evolve. Evolve works with a range of brands, agencies, and media owners around the world with offices in London, Singapore, and New York. The acquisition was made to continue Talon’s plans to strengthen its global presence and expand Talon International. Talon has worked to grow its OOH network and create bold campaigns and measurable results. Talon acquires out-of- home specialist, Evolve Having been supplying high-performance adhesive solutions for almost four decades, Eurobond Adhesives has been acquired by adhesives, tapes, silicones, and lubricants supplier, Techsil. Effective immediately, Eurobond is now trading under the Techsil brand, however the well-known products will retain the Eurobond name including its popular Penloc structural adhesive solution. As a result of the acquisition, all Eurobond stock has been moved to Bidford on Avon and the customer services team in Bidford is in situ. Chris Dilley, managing director of Techsil told SignLink that both companies knew each other prior to the acquisition with Dilley and managing director of Eurobond Simon Dearing sharing a very good relationship. “Simon and Samantha Dearing have built an excellent adhesives business,” Dilley says. “Techsil and Eurobond are a great strategic and cultural fit as we share similar values, business models, and end markets. Pre-existing customers of Eurobond or those familiar with the brand can still access the Eurobond products via the Eurobond website and web shopping portal. [L to R] Simon Dearing, managing director of Eurobond Adhesives and Chris Dilley, managing director of Techsil Eurobond acquired by Techsil By Carys Evans BUSINESS / NEWS 8 Issue 247 - June / July 2023 www.signlink.co.uk signlink signlink signlinkmagazine Trade-only producer of fabricated signage, SignFab, has made new appointments within the company. With a strong ethos for promoting from within, the company is delighted with its latest four promotions given to Shaun Laing, Ashley Hall, Alex Wood, and Mike Holland. Laing and Hall have both advanced from production planning into production management roles, while Wood and Holland have progressed from departmental supervisors to works managers across two sites. Bringing a combined 37 years of service to SignFab, Wood and Holland will cover both the Scudamore and Byford Road sites respectively. Managing director, Paul Bartholomew comments: “The promotions given were due to the hard work and commitment that the staff members offer to SignFab. Shaun and Ashley have developed their skill sets brilliantly during their length of service with us and are now chomping at the bit to add more variety to their day-to-day roles”. Wood adds: “What a great opportunity to step up to the next level, bringing skills and ideas used from running the Assembly Department.” Based in Leicester, SignFab operates across two sites on Scudamore and Byford Road New roles for long-serving staff By David Osgar Smith, a trade-only supplier of fabricated signage and business under the William Smith Group 1832, has announced the return of its historic print service. The service stopped in late 2019 before the Covid-19 pandemic altered the operations of many companies in the UK. Smith has offered a trade print service since the 1980s and was one of the first companies in the UK to invest in plotters and printing equipment purposely for trade printing. The company says it will save customers valuable time and remove the hassle and capacity issues printers might currently face. Announcing the news online, William Smith Group states: “Smith can provide our services for vehicle graphics, signage, retail applications, window applications, promotional applications, and more. “Smith has state-of-the-art large-format printers on-site and can fulfil both latex and eco-solvent print projects.” With access to digital print films including products from 3M, Avery Dennison, Arlon, VION, and Contra Vision, Smith demonstrates a dedication to variety and quality to its customer base. Smith will carry out large-format graphic printing for new and existing trade customers William Smith relaunches trade print By David Osgar
BUSINESS / NEWS signlink signlink signlinkmagazine 10 Issue 247 - June / July 2023 www.signlink.co.uk Route Media continues to expand Route Media, a supplier of digital signage as well as out-of-home (OOH) and digital out-of-home (DOOH) advertising space, has secured a national contract with Transport for Wales. The new partnership means Route Media will provide digital and static media at stations, roads, and bridges including Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, Rhyl, Wrexham, Bangor, and Holyhead, as well as across the border in Shrewsbury and Chester. The seven-year deal seeks to switch the Transport for Wales estate from static to sustainable digital assets, which Route states will lower the transport company’s carbon footprint. Owain Taylor-Shaw, senior commercial development manager at Transport for Wales, comments: “We are very excited to announce Route Media as our new advertising sales partner across our vast media estate, spanning both the rail and road portfolio. “The barriers to entry to operate at this level are usually too significant for smaller operators to overcome as the sector is dominated by big global players, but Transport for Wales is pleased to provide this platform to enable a Welsh SME to grow and reach the next level.” Transport for Wales was established in 2016 to oversee public transport in Wales following the failures of previous systems. Since being set up, the company has renovated much of the country’s rail network and sought to improve customer experiences. Route Media has also recently acquired visual marketing specialist Colour Studios, in a deal that strengthens all brands. The acquisition enhances the sustainable offerings of the company as Colour Studios specialises in eco-friendly products for the exhibition, event, and display sectors. Colour Studios’ range of eco display walls and cardboard banner stands will complement the fabricated and digital signage offered by Dragon Signs and Route Media. Based in Radstock, Bath, Colour Studios has worked with the likes of Apetito, Wiltshire Farm Foods, and the University of Bath. This new acquisition means Colour Studios can pursue planned growth and grow its strong client base. Rhys Harrington, managing director of Dragon Signs and Route Media, says: “It’s fantastic to have Colour Studios join our group of businesses. The company’s focus on ecofriendly products and the variety of technology it has developed is extremely exciting.” Route Media operates alongside sister company Dragon Signs to provide signage across the UK Neonplus takes the stage at VM & Display Show The VM & Display show acts as an opportunity for businesses, retailers, agencies, and students to see many solutions in a variety of display sectors. Manufacturer for the sign and display trade, The Sign Group exhibited for the first time at this year’s show as a way of showing its products to a wider audience. Speaking to SignLink at the show, finance director of the company Ian Hoole, said: “We’re here to show our products, and hopefully get sales from it. “We don’t fit as a traditional exhibitor [not working directly with retailers] but we’re hoping we can use our network of sign companies to liaise with potential leads to benefit all parties.” The show as a whole was a visual treat for those attending, especially visitors that are learning about the industry. The exhibition was a relaxed and friendly experience where companies were happy to demonstrate what they specialise in. The Sign Group chose to focus this year on its Neonplus range of LED solutions. The Sign Group exhibited for the first time at the 2023 VM & Display Show By David Osgar Dufaylite becomes a carbon neutral business Dufaylite, a supplier of recycled paper honeycomb used for packaging, construction, and display graphics, has announced it has become a carbon neutral business and has achieved FSC status. The business’ product has become a popular innovation in the print and signage industries thanks to its ability to be used for various applications and its sustainable credentials. Located near Cambridge, the business is already ISO 9001 – Quality, ISO 14001 – Environmental, and ISO 45001 - Health & Safety accredited. Ashley Moscrop, managing director of Dufaylite, says: “I am delighted to have started the year so positively. We are now officially and purposefully making the decision and commitment to the environment as a business and promise to offset all carbon emissions ongoing. Our journey to being carbon neutral and owning our carbon agenda has just begun.” The company partnering with Carbon Neutral Britain means Dufaylite will now measure and offset its carbon footprint in order to protect the environment. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) supports Dufaylite’s latest commitment to responsible forestry By David Osgar By David Osgar
KIT & MEDIA / NEWS email: news@signlink.co.uk Issue 245 - February / March 2023 12 Back in 2020, Eltham Digital began offering signage following investment in a Xenons R180 hybrid flatbed/roll-toroll machine from RSR. The business is now taking 50% of its revenue from signage work with the machine having been replaced with the upgraded Xenons X180. Whilst the X180 has the same dimensions as its predecessor with a maximum width of 1.88m, the new model has numerous mechanical upgrades and uses the latest Ricoh 6 printheads. Investing in the upgrade has meant Eltham has the ability to print onto ACP, foam, board, flue board, glass, ceramic tiles, wood, and vinyl and flexible media. The company runs the machine at 25sq m per hour with a CMYK ink configuration and has the option of an additional white ink available as a future upgrade. “During the Covid pandemic we were being asked to produce all kinds of signage, so we could see there was demand there,” says Terry Glasscock, owner of Eltham Digital. “RSR convinced us the Xenons hybrid was the ideal machine to take on a new market as it offered high performance and versatility for a relatively low cost. They were right.” Eltham ramps up sign work after purchase of Xenons Half of Eltham's revenue now comes from signage after the purchase MediaCo Group, a supplier of large-format print, materials, and display graphics, has taken delivery of the first swissQprint Kudu in the UK at its site in Trafford Park, Manchester. The Kudu was unveiled at last year's FESPA Global Print Expo in Berlin and is a high-end flatbed printer that complements the existing swissQprint flatbed range, including the Nyala, Impala, and Oryx. MediaCo describes itself as a sustainable display graphics manufacturer so the power consumption and operating costs of this latest purchase were highly important. The printer is the first swissQprint model to feature ten colour channels and features swissQprint’s Tip Switch vacuum and includes a 260-zone divided flatbed for greater user control. First swissQprint Kudu installed at MediaCo Canon has launched its new Colorado M-series, two roll-to-roll large-format graphics printers that are modular in speed configuration and media handling. Described by the manufacturer as the “fastest and most productive solution in its market segment”, the range offers special effects and white ink printing capabilities. The scalable nature of the range means users can choose from various output speeds with the Colorado M3 offering a cruising speed of 29m2 per hour and maximum print speeds of 111m2 per hour, and the M5 offering 40m2 per hour and maximum print speeds of 159m2 per hour. Canon has launched the new Colorado M-series which is modular in speed and media [L to R] Bryan Carmichael, Erskine Stewart, Ian Maxfield, and Stephen Arthur Canon launches new modular Colorado series Israel-based print service provider Line Cut has highlighted the HP Latex 800W printer as a significant new investment for the company as it has allowed it to take on new work and gain customers in new sectors. Nir Yankov, owner and chief executive officer at Line Cut, says: “There are several reasons why we chose the HP Latex 800W printer. First and foremost, we were impressed with its ability to consistently produce high-quality prints, especially with its added capability of white ink printing.” The printer, which was installed in December 2022, was Line Cut’s first HP purchase which it acquired via authorised reseller Microjuk Computers. Line Cut hails HP Latex 800W as it takes on new work The HP Latex 800W is a largeformat printer with specialised white ink capabilities First Acuity Prime L purchased by A1 Signs Netherlands-based A1 Signs has become the first in the world to invest in an Acuity Prime L flatbed printer from Fujifilm. A larger version of the Acuity Prime 20 and 30 models, the Prime L will enable A1 Signs to maximise its productivity and support demand. Offering print speeds of 202m2/hr the Prime L appealed to A1 Signs due to its easy operability and high speed and quality results. Featuring six vacuum zones and 16 media location pins, the Acuity Prime L can print sideby-side jobs with a dual zone function. The new flatbed printer has been installed at the family-run business’ premises in Apeldoorn in the Netherlands. “I hate limits and I like to print on the widest possible substrates,” says Jan Carel Schepenaar, founder and owner of A1 Signs, adding: “The Acuity Prime L, with its 3200mm x 2000mm flatbed, enables us to do this.” A1 Signs first invested in Fujifilm technology back in 2014, two years after its inception with the purchase of an Acuity Select X2 printer. By Carys Evans By Carys Evans Jan Carel Schepenaar, owner and founder of Netherlandsbased A1 Signs
Recognising a need to improve the impact of signage and printed banner waste, Probo, one of the largest print and sign companies in Europe, has launched SignAgain. The product is the very first sheet material made from used banners and printed offcuts and offers a fully circular solution to signage applications. Based in Dokkum, Netherlands, Probo employs 350 full-time employees and produces a range of products such as canvases, panels, posters, textiles, stickers, and labels. Everything at the production facility is fully automated and completed 100% in-house with the company’s main focus being on innovation. “By continually anticipating changes or creating changes, Probo distinguishes itself in the digital print market,” explains Jordy de Jong, brand builder at Probo. The launch of SignAgain is a great example of the way the company looks for ways to improve processes within the print and sign industry. Described as “just the beginning”, SignAgain is the very first 100% circular sheet material in print made entirely from used banners and cutting waste. “The goal is to no longer buy and sell print once, but rather bring it into the loop and keep it there,” de Jong says. “We are aware of the environmental impact print has, and as an industry we are the owner of this problem. We want to give print an endless lease on life and transform it into zero-waste circular products and materials.” The topic of sustainability is not a new one and when quizzed on why now was the right time to launch this product, de Jong describes the industry as being on a tipping point with many printed materials disposed of after use. He also raises the issue that whilst there is a rise in the number of recyclable materials available, these are not actually being recycled due to there not being clear options to do so. “With SignAgain we want to stop wasting print materials and commit to full circularity. To this end, we process factory waste and turn used prints into new sheet materials for printing. In this way, print remains affordable and available and we are not dependent on increasingly scarce raw materials.” So, how does it work? Once the cutting waste has been collected, it is processed into regrind and pressed into new printable rigid sheets. As well as being used for signage, SignAgain can also be used for applications such as flooring and for other wall and interior purposes. The product is water repellent, bendable, fire retardant, and can be recycled again and again. In the rollout of SignAgain, Probo has opted for a franchise community model to enable the quick upscaling of SignAgain. Within this model, the company will offer the brand, licence, hardware, technology, product development, and support and training; and the franchisee will be able to contribute to a sustainable story, operate using a new business model, and bring production in-house. “Only together we can change the print and advertising industry into zero waste and make SignAgain available across the world. If we want to make an impact on scale, we need to do so internationally and together as an industry. This is why we are looking for partners to become part of this sustainable journey,” de Jong concludes. You can find out more about SignAgain by visiting www.signagain.com or by contacting nosigntowaste@signagain.com or signagain@probo.nl. New innovative recycled sheet material launches By Carys Evans Probo, one of the largest print and sign companies in Europe, has developed an innovative signage solution, SignAgain of Probo’s work is produced in-house 100% 14 Issue 247 - June / July 2023 www.signlink.co.uk ◄ Probo has launched the very first 100% circular sheet material in print made entirely from used banners and cutting waste ► According to Probo, 4.9kg of banner material can be turned into 1m2 of SignAgain material ◄ The offcuts of banner material are regrinded and pressed into the new printable material ENVIRONMENT / NEWS @signlink @signlink @signlinkmagazine
A FLYING START TO 2023 FOR THE PRINT SHOW Preparations for the 2023 edition of The Print Show are well underway and a very optimistic year ahead has been voiced by Event Director Chris Davies. The number of exhibitors already confirmed and making contact is unlike any previous event says Davies with the floorplan already at around 70% full with less than five months left until the event in September. Sales Manager Luke Stoneham has commented: “The demand for stand space from both existing and new exhibitors is palpable. Building on a record number of rebooks from the 2022 show, my team and I are very excited to see what 2023 brings.” Long-standing exhibitors such as Venture Banners, Vivid Laminating Technologies, and Premier Paper Group are all set to return, alongside Resolute DTG which like a number of exhibitors this year, has opted for an even bigger stand. The show will also welcome new exhibitors for 2023 including Baker Labels and EBB. The event floor will be filled with manufacturers offering solutions from wide-format printing, finishing, laser engraving, and cutting, from names such as Fujifilm, Liyu UK, Epson, Trotec, Renz UK, OPUS UK, Axzyra, Morgana Systems, and more. Manufacturer of digital print and finishing solutions, Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) has announced it will return to The Print Show 2023 with a larger presence. The company’s return to the only UK-based exhibition for the print industry coincides with its 150th anniversary year with the show providing a space for Konica to demonstrate its machines, workflows, and automation all in one place. Visitors will be able to experience live demonstrations of Konica’s flagship AccurioPress C14000 high-volume toner press, AccurioShine 3600 digital embellishment press with iFoilOne (for hot foil stamping), and TU-510 innovative four-edge trimmer and creaser. This will showcase that it is possible to complete entire jobs on a single production line. “The Print Show is an important event for Konica Minolta, attracting existing and future customers and partners, some of which we will be inviting to join us on the stand,” says Jon Hiscock, head of Production and Industrial Print at Konica Minolta. After a successful 2022 presence at The Print Show, manufacturer Epson and Organisers of The Print Show have said the floorplan is around 70% full already with returning and new well-known manufacturers, suppliers, and software providers all signing up to take part in the 2023 event ►A gala dinner will be held on Wednesday 20th September in Birmingham’s Town Hall ◄Epson and large-format kit reseller SEDO – Large Format Solutions are partnering to return to the 2023 event 18 Issue 247 - June / July 2023 www.signlink.co.uk EVENTS / NEWS signlink signlink signlinkmagazine
large-format kit reseller SEDO – Large Format Solutions are partnering to return to the 2023 event. Andy McGuinness, managing director of SEDO, says attending shows such as The Print Show enables the company to reach a wider audience and get its name better known within the industry. On what visitors can expect to see at The Print Show this year, SEDO and Epson will be demonstrating the popular Epson S80600, Epson R5000 Resin, Epson’s latest T-Series along with a Summa S2 T160, Onyx RIP, and Kala Arkane Laminator. Leicester-based online trade-only print company Flexpress has also confirmed its space at The Print Show 2023. The company last exhibited for two consecutive years in 2017 and 2018 and has now decided to return to the exhibition in the NEC, Birmingham this September. Other exhibitors include a range of trade printers such as Solopress, Route 1 Print, Very Displays, and Tradeprint as well as a number of software providers such as Zaikio, Wildcard Software, printIQ, XMPIE, Accura MIS, and Flex4. Returning with a slightly larger stand, Very Displays, has described the decision to return this September as a “no brainer” due to its success at the 2022 show. Kirsty Corcoran, marketing manager of Very Displays, says: “Very Displays is excited to be back at The Print Show in 2023! Having had a great success last year at the show it was a no brainer to exhibit again and this time with a slightly larger stand. “You can meet all our friendly account managers, see new products, product demos, and get your hands on our useful selling tools. Plus, watch this space for our show giveaway. We look forward to seeing everyone there,” Corcoran adds. When planning its position at the 2023 event, printIQ says it has decided to position itself more prominently and will be using its space to boost the awareness of automated workflow and business intelligence with its powerful cloud-based MIS solution. As part of its wider marketing campaign, The Print Show has distributed over 5,000 media packs to the industry, demonstrating the impact print can have in a marketing campaign. Show features such as the Knowledge Zone, Networking Café, and Golden Ticket prize draw are highlighted in the pack; as well as information on the gala dinner taking place during the event. For those wanting to find out more about exhibiting, the guide also features a handy breakdown of all you need to know from the costs of stands to the packages available. As momentum builds for September 19th to 21st, a brand new, easy-to-use website has also launched featuring an up-to-date interactive floor plan with plenty of information said to be coming soon regarding show events and features. The Print Show will run from September 19th to 21st in the NEC, Birmingham Factoid Having had great success last year at the show it was a no brainer to exhibit again and this time with a slightly larger stand email: news@signlink.co.uk 19 Issue 247 - June / July 2023 EVENTS / NEWS Editorial: 0117 980 5040 Sales: 0117 960 3255
22 June / July 2023 - Issue 247 www.signlink.co.uk UNDER THE HOOD / SUMMA F SERIES There are times when a printer does not know what order is likely to come through the door next, and our clients or their designers seem to come up with the most wonderful ideas, sometimes without much thought into how they can be produced. That is fine and we need to push the boundaries as this fuels development, but at some point, some poor soul may have to actually turn the two-dimensional image into a three-dimensional product. Printing on a wide range of substrates is now considered straightforward. Lithographic, inkjet, or digital equipment can produce a wide gamut of colours with relative ease. The issue develops when it needs to be brought into life or practical use, be this cut, machined, or creased for folding. The larger question here is how do you actually buy all the equipment needed for these tasks? This is easily answered by Summa with its F Series flatbed finishing system. Headquartered in Belgium, Summa is recognised for its high-quality vinyl cutters, finishing flatbeds, and laser cutters all of which have been developed over a number of years and installed worldwide. The manufacturer’s equipment provides companies in the printing, sign-making, textile, industrial, and packaging industries with the most innovative cutting solutions. The F Series of flatbed finishing systems is one with significant flexibility, choice of size, and ability to upgrade via a large bank of options. Foundations in Size Setting out to purchase one of the five variants available from Summa is made easy thanks to well laid out product literature with the information presented through a step-by-step process. This enables customers to easily compile a basic specification and then add options to scope out the machine to directly match your wide range of finishing options. The first piece of advice from Summa is to consider the size of the cutting system you need as this can directly focus you on the correct base machine. Consider your work and from there you choose either the F1612 (the machine with the smallest of finishing tables) with a working area of 160 x 120cm or for longer work, you could consider the F1432 or F1832 with working areas of 136 x 320cm and 184 x 320cm respectively. Finally, should your work need to go right out to 3.2m with Cutting Without Limits ▲ The F1612 (the machine with the smallest of finishing tables) has a working area of 160 x 120cm Summa has in its F Series of flatbed finishing systems a range of options from the size of the machine to the number of cutting heads and finishing tools, catering for almost any substrate. Brian Sims finds out more F3220 or the largest machine the F3232 you get working areas of 327 x 210cm or 327 x 320cm to easily cope with large-format production. Tooling Up Next Once you have arrived at your decision on the size of table you need, the next step on the specification is the choice of tooling you may need. Summa can provide an almost endless number of tools and you could feel swamped by the choice but the company makes the selection process very easy. First, you need to understand that Summa can supply a cutting head with provision for three modules to be held at any one time meaning the machine can switch between several functions with pro The choice of tooling for each of the three slots in the cutting head is easily broken into the four types of cutting head, branching out into countless knives and processing tooling
come with standard features to allow the substrate to be held or moved accordingly. There is a conveyor system that can cut and crease longer lengths of substrate with accuracy and repeatability. The vacuum table holds the materials firmly to allow you to have accuracy of 0.05mm or 0.05% whichever is greater. The table is zonal so if the substrate is of a smaller size, you can maximise the draw of the vacuum accordingly. There are what Summa calls Media Advance Clamps which allow the substrate to be fixed whilst it is advanced for longer or multiple styles of jobs. Finally, the Roll Support System can be used in combination with the Conveyor System and Media Advance Clamps for processing substrates on a roll. Depending on the format of the machine you choose, a number of these features may or may not be available, but overall all machines above the F1612 can come with the full gamut of equipment. That said the F1612 can come with options such as extension tables and baskets to make it a very flexible machine. There is a lot more to the F Series flatbed finishing machines from Summa and it is impossible to do it justice in just one review, but needless to say, I would suggest regardless of the imagination of your designer, any one of the F Series would be capable of producing what was required. Brian Sims Principal Consultant, Metis Print Consultancy, www.metis-uk.eu functions without any form of pause. The LED pointer also means when switching, the F Series machines easily and accurately pick up from where they need to. So, what options do we have to fill these three slots? Again, Summa breaks down the choice easily and conveniently. There is a choice of four different groups of cutting and finishing tooling: Tangential, Router, High Frequency Rotary, and Drag modules all of which can be added in one of the three slots on the cutting head. In more detail, the Tangential module provides a vertical force of 10kg and a wide range of different knives and cutting tools for a wide range of materials. Some examples of what can be used in the Tangential module include a kiss-cutting tool for easy weeding of images or shapes, a double cut tool for rigid material, and a heavy-duty cut-out tool for materials up to 15mm in thickness. Creasing tools can be added in this module and if an angle other than 90 degrees is needed there are several V-Cut tools cleverly colour coded for a variety of angles. If perforating is needed in the product, a tool can be clipped into the Tangential module to have a number of different formats of perforation. Finally, if the substrates are thick or troublesome then there are three different styles of oscillating tools either powered electrically or pneumatically. This is only a brief overview of the type of tool you can install in the Tangential module, the number of knife styles and other options is almost endless; meaning you are bound to find the tool you need. Choosing the Drag module for your specified machine opens up a number of functions such as kiss-cutting and the ability to install a pen or other marker to allow the F Series to draw intricate designs on the substrate. The pressure applied by the drag module is up to 600g and this makes it very useful for paper under 200gsm, adhesive vinyl, sandblast materials, and window films. The Rotary module has a high torque motor built into it that can drive a number of different rotary knives making it extremely useful for cutting woven polyester, laminated fabrics, canvas, felt, and a number of packaging foams amongst a list of other materials. The main reason for this being one of your choices is most fabrics are difficult to hold down onto any vacuum table so the rotary knife will cut the material without it needing to be held so tightly down to the table. The F Series comes with two types of Router module, the Standard and High Frequency (HF) versions both giving a range of routing options. The Standard router has either a 1000 or 1400W power option depending on what you choose to cut. The HF version is for high production environments in most rigid materials. Regardless of the choice of router taken, all come with dust removal which is very important given the heightened risk to the operation from dust. Table Features Regardless of the machine size you have decided on, all the F Series machines ◄ There is a choice of four different groups of cutting and finishing tooling: Tangential, Router, High Frequency, Rotary, and Drag Work Zone Material Width F1612 160 x 120 cm Up to 165 cm F1432 136 x 320 cm Up to 142 cm F1832 184 x 320 cm Up to 190 cm F3220 327 x 210 cm Up to 322 cm F3232 327 x 320 cm Up to 322 cm Statistics ▼ The F1612 can come with options such as extension tables and baskets to make it a very flexible machine UNDER THE HOOD / SUMMA F SERIES 23 June / July 2023 - Issue 247 email: news@signlink.co.uk
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