As part of the partnership with The Grand Appeal, the Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity, Roland DG has printed and applied printed artwork, created by designer Emily Twomey, for use within three treatment rooms and the waiting area of the Neurophysiology Department.

Anna Shepherd, deputy director for The Grand Appeal, said, ‘When Roland DG approached us with the offer to makeover spaces in our hospital, we couldn’t have said ‘yes’ faster! Bringing colour and light into the lives of unwell children will make such a difference in what can be dark times.’

It is suggested that individuals spend 80-90% of their time indoors where pollutant levels are said to be higher than those found outside, with this time heightened for those spending time in hospital. This is a situation Roland DG has aimed to address with its TrueVis AP-640. The machine is a water-based resin/latex printer, suitable for indoor applications in sensitive environments such as hospitals and schools. The TrueVis resin inks are Greenguard Gold certified, meaning they meet standards of low chemical emissions. 

The printer also has a concentrated colour pigmentation to allow heavier saturation than conventional resin inks for impact on applications including paper, fabric, canvas, wallpaper, non-PVC materials. Additionally, the True Rich Colour preset is described to take advantage of the high colour saturation of new TrueVis Ink to maximise vibrancy. 

Stephen Davis, marketing director EMEA and managing director for UK and Ireland commented, ‘We understand the importance of colour for children, particularly in aiding those who are unwell or recovering, and we wanted to help make a difference in any way we could. We’re always looking for new opportunities to implement our technology to create real impact, so to be able to give to such a worthwhile cause has been incredibly rewarding.’

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The Co-I series is described to harness the ability of printing intricate graphics, with CMYK plus orange, red, clear, white, and primer inks, on substrates, including plastic, leather, wood, and metals with flexibility. The printers are capable of accommodating objects up to 242mm in height and 100 kg/sqm in weight, catering to three-dimensional applications. The ergonomic table design is said to facilitate the installation of tilted devices, to ensure precise printing on gently curved or uneven surfaces.

Tony Miller, Roland DG’s president of global sales and marketing division, commented, ‘Based on their material and application needs, customers can choose the best solution from five different models, including three 64in width models with a choice of three different table sizes with vacuum beds, and two 30in width models, one with a vacuum bed.’

The integrated control panel and features such as static electricity remover and automatic printhead cleaning are claimed to make for an easier operation and stable print quality, in limited workspaces.

Co-I series printers come with VersaWorks 6 software, Roland DG’s Rip, which processes PDF, EPS and PostScript files which auto-generates white, gloss and primer layers with one button.

The Co-I series also supports cloud-based services, including Roland DG Connect, for more efficient business operations and growth, with better support in the event of errors, operational visibility and easy profit calculations. It also features PrintAutoMate for businesses like e-commerce that require continuous output in large batches.

Mr Miller concluded, ‘The diversification and individualisation of consumer needs has led to an increasing demand for timely and flexible responses that are attentive to the needs of each individual customer.

‘Interest in on-demand printing, which enables speedy production of what is needed, when it is needed, and in the required quantity, are growing year by year. VersaObject’s direct printing solutions bring numerous benefits and competitive advantages to customers’ businesses, including shorter delivery times, reduced costs, flexibility, and reduced environmental impact while enabling the creation of new business opportunities.’

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Ms Bryne, a former beauty therapist also known as Misha in the gaming world, shifted her focus into the realm of digital artistry following the closure of her salon due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Established in 2020, Me Myself and Misha evolved from a business offering design services for streamers and gaming conventions to providing an array of products, ranging from stickers and tumblers to custom packaging and apparel.

As the demand for her designs continued to increase, Ms Bryne has installed a Roland DG VersaStudio BN2-20 to meet printing needs while also alleviating the burden of running a one-person operation.

The BN2-20 integrates printing and contour-cutting capabilities. The desktop printer/cutter is described as a ‘versatile’ solution to meet Ms Bryne’s printing needs, whilst removing the need for multiple machines for printing and cutting.

The BN2-20’s versatility means Ms Bryne has been able to print high-quality stickers, apparel transfers, packaging materials, all with colour accuracy and vibrancy.

Unlike her previous setup, which she said to demanded ‘constant supervision,’ the Roland DG BN2-20, equipped with VersaWorks 6 output software, has allowed proactive planning and organisation of print production with its five print queues, five hot folders, and queue settings.

The VersaWorks 6’s media set functions and new sheet cut function, streamlines job setup and execution, while automatic sensor adjustments provide aid in creating the best results in every print.

This has allowed Ms Bryne to save and recall preferences, capture specific print settings, and streamline production into a process which increases overall efficiency.

Ms Bryne explained, ‘Thanks to the BN2-20 Roland DG machine and its integrated VersaWorks 6 software, I’ve unlocked precious time in my day while gaining a virtual extra pair of hands.’

For Me Myself and Misha, closely monitoring the printing process is ‘vital’ to run shorter bursts of personalised orders. Roland DG Connect has provided real-time access to crucial data on print jobs and overall business operations. This on-demand information has allowed the business to adjust its structure, as needed, to maximise efficiency.

Ms Bryne said Roland DG Connect has ‘revolutionised’ its operations stating, ‘We can now schedule runs, track efficiency, and analyse our cycles on the go. This software has enabled me to focus on business expansion and identify areas where I can enhance my design process.’

The relationship with Roland looks to continue as Ms Bryne plans to investment and upgrade to the latest Roland DG UV-LED printer, the VersaStudio BD-8, to help diversify product offerings and ‘expand into new areas’ with direct-to-object printing capabilities.

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Speaking about the co-location of SDUK with Printwear & Promotion Live (see preview on p40), event director Tony Gardner said, ‘Sign & Digital UK 2024 is the first SDUK under our ownership, and we are really looking forward to seeing how the co-located event works. All shows must continue to develop their offering and we believe a co-located event is key to help grow the show, and to attract a new audience into the world of sign-making and large-format digital printing. Visitors will have the chance to explore the latest technology and innovations first-hand, with many of these advancements being showcased in the UK for the first time.’

The exhibition will be complemented by the International Sign Association (ISA-UK) Explains Lounge. Now in its third year, the Lounge will host a series of presentations and panel discussions designed to inform and educate visitors to the show on the latest developments, trends and innovations and how they will impact the large format printing, sign-making and visual communications industry.

Topics include managing your sign business, business advice sessions, daily panel and feature sessions. The Women in Sign and Graphics session focuses on their contributions to the industry, while The Printing Charity will share ways to support mental well-being within the sector.

On the show floor, Hybrid Services, the exclusive UK and Ireland distributor for Mimaki Europe, is introducing three new printers at the event. These are the Mimaki TxF300-75 direct-to-film printer launched in August 2023, the UJV100-160Plus LED UV printer announced in September 2023, which will have its first UK exhibition showing, plus the first showing of the Mimaki UCJV330-160 LED UV integrated printer/cutter. The latter is a 1.6m production machine that Hybrid says offers ‘highly creative capabilities coupled with ultra-low running costs’.

RGB and Oki Europe are teaming up to support motor vehicle number plate printing with a complete ‘business in a box’ solution. They will be featuring the A3+ Oki Pro9542 printer, which includes white toner, and the Oki C650, described as ‘the world’s smallest high performance colour printer’  but still suitable for commercial print.

UK Feather Flags will showcase various products, including a new line of Eco fabric exhibition display solutions that it says demonstrate its commitment to sustainable signage. The company aims to build brand awareness, forge new business relationships, and gain insights into emerging market trends.

Sign Trade Supplies plans to display its range of sustainable aluminium profiles, sign fixings, and components, emphasising value to customers. The stand will also feature an interactive element, adding a ‘fun and engaging dimension for attendees’.

Assured Signage aims to use the show to highlight the potential of digital signage as a new revenue stream for traditional sign-makers and printers. It will present its media player, Sureview Genesis, which is claimed to offer offering exceptional performance and a low cost of ownership. The stand will also feature displays from Papercast, showcasing e-ink displays ideal for outdoor applications.

Roland DG  is taking space at both SDUK and Printwear & Promotion. At the former, it will showcase its new VersaObject MO-240, which replaces the company’s popular LEF2 Series and is designed to enhance direct-to-object printing with new levels of productivity. For those interested in signage, interior design and vehicle wraps, the company will also be showcasing its TrueVIS AP-640 resin printer, plus the popular TrueVis LG-640 UV print and cut device, and the 2.4 x 1.2m VersaObject EU-1000MF flatbed that can handle objects up to 95mm thick. These will be backed by demonstrations of the DG Connect software app.

Brownings, in partnership with Magnwall, plans to showcase novel wireless electrification systems at SDUK 2024. This allows users to mount electrical accessories onto the face of tension fabric systems, eliminating the need for complex wiring. The stand will also feature Brownings’ range, including TexSign tension fabric systems, Flex face products and bespoke snap frames.

BestSub will showcase its latest engraving machine, craft heat presses, Otter DtF system, and a comprehensive selection of craft supplies, materials, and tools.

InkTec had been planning to show a brand new printer, the Jetrix LXa5 flatbed, but the conflict around the Suez Canal has delayed it, so the firm will focus on sustainability, showing how Jetrix printers can be upgraded to move with the times and continue to deliver on their initial investment. The Jetrix LXi8 UV flatbed will be present, sporting a new user interface that improves the nesting and mapping capabilities of the printer to minimise media wastage. There will also be the first showing of the Jetrix XGR320 3.2m UV LED roll printer. Both machines will be printing with GreenGuard Gold accredited inks.

QPS will feature four LED UV printers from ColorJet on its stand – the 49sqm/hr Verve 2513M flatbed, the Verve Mini 1050 x 1650mm compact flatbed, the 2m width Vulcan Hybrid X and the 3.2m Vulcan 3201M which offers at top speed of 76sqm/hr. Collectively these cover a full gamut of wide-format applications from small signage and promotional items to high volume roll substrates, plus rigid materials including ACP, foam, board, flute board, glass, ceramic tiles and wood. QPS will also feature the Nazdar range of inks.

Drytac won’t have a stand of its own, but its products will feature on Epson, Hybrid Services and Roland’s stands, as well as that of exclusive distribution partner Premier Paper Group. While Premier will display a selection of Drytac materials and can advise about the full range, Epson will feature SpotOn Floor 200 and ReTac Textures Sand wallcovering films, while Hybrid will be printing Polar Chrome reflective PET, Polar Choice White film and Visiprint films. Roland’s stand will show ReTac ChalkMate, which yields a blackboard-type finish.

Another first will be the debut of the SC-V1000 A4 flatbed printer from Epson. This is an entry-level flatbed printer aimed at small businesses in the promotional goods industry. Described as highly compact and affordable, V1000 can print directly on a wide range of substrates with a thickness of up to 70mm, including acrylics, polycarbonates, PVC, aluminium, metal, polyester, foamboard, styrene, wood and stone, making it suitable for creating promotional and personalised items.

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The Dimense offering consists of the Dimensor S inkjet printer combined with special media that has the property of foaming when heated, a structured ink to control foaming, and CMYK water-based ink that is safe for use indoors. After printing, the media is heated by the printer’s on-board heater, which causes areas not coated with structure ink to foam up to 1.5 mm thick, realising the planned textured design. This innovative solution enables on-demand output of graphics with a three-dimensional feel.

Dimense has developed an exclusive line of PVC-free media, which is friendly to both the environment and people. Several finishes of media are available, including matte, suede, metallic silver, metallic gold, pearlescent and ‘chameleon’, enabling the production of a wide variety of interior decorations, including wallpaper, as well as point-of-purchase materials. The ‘digitally embossed’ wallpaper can then also be painted for artistic effect.

The materials range also includes textile media ideal for indoor signage such as silicone edge graphics, canvases, roll-up banners and PoP displays. Due to their compliance with safety standards such as AgBB and A+ certification, these media can be used safely in a variety of indoor situations.

‘It is said that less than 5% of wallpaper printing has been digitised, and this industry is expected to accelerate. There is also a growing need for commercial facilities that provide people with an unforgettable experience, and for offices and living spaces that are uniquely their own, and digital printing solutions will play an increasingly active role in this interior decoration,’ said Tony Miller, president of Roland DG’s global sales and marketing division.

‘Dimense provides a unique and special expression that not only stands out but can also captivate people by producing a company’s vision and history, brand image and story, and product concept. We look forward to leveraging our global sales and support network to bring this great solution to the global interior decorating market,’ he added.

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The BD-8 is described as a versatile UV printer capable of high-definition direct printing on diverse shapes and materials. With an optional rotary axis, it can also print onto cylindrical objects like bottles and lipsticks. Compatible with Roland’s EUV5 ink, it can print onto materials ranging from soft fabrics to hard surfaces like wood and plastics. A primer ink enhances adhesion for printing on glass and metal, enabling the production of high-margin products such as smartphone cases, stationery and cosmetic items.

The DB-8 uses the same printhead as Roland DG’s high-end inkjet models and offers multiple print modes suitable for ‘diverse’ applications. Roland highlights the user-friendly design of the machine, emphasising their ease of installation and operation. A minimalist interface includes only a power button on the printer, with  functions controlled through included utility software. The printer is supplied with FlexiDesigner VersaStudio Edition, supporting design creation and output for novices. Pricing was not revealed but it is clear from the design and software inclusions that it is aimed at new / entry-level users.

Users will also have access to Roland DG Connect, a cloud-based service that provides proactive error support and real-time visualisation of printer status.

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The VersaObject MO-240 printer offers a printing area of 610 x 458mm (24 x18-in), and accommodates three-dimensional objects up to 204mm (8-in) thick. With an optional rotary axis unit, cylindrical objects such as bottles from 10 to 121mm in diameter can be printed.

Roland’s EUV5 inks include orange, red, white and gloss in addition to CMYK, expanding the colour gamut by approximately 20% compared to CMYK-only printing. The gloss ink enables gloss or matte finishes and realistic textures, including 3D embossed effects. The UV-curing inks suit a variety of materials, from soft to hard, covering plastic, paper, leather, wood, and glass and metal with the use of a primer ink.

The MO-240 features a 7-in colour touch panel for operation, an automatic cleaning function to maintain print quality, and ships withRoland’s  VersaWorks 6 Rip software. It has large print heads in a staggered layout, plus a ‘potent’ UV-LED lamp, for optimised high-speed output which here means just over 2sqm/hr. Productivity for simultaneous white printing has doubled compared to previous models, according to Roland.

Tony Miller, president of Roland DG’s global sales and marketing division, commented, ‘Our VersaObject series has been meeting the needs for small lot high-mix production in manufacturing and services with its high definition and beautiful printing. In recent years, new services such as customisation and personalisation have been attracting attention in various fields based on diversifying and individualised consumer needs, and the MO-240 with its advanced productivity will bring a high level of competitiveness to customers in these businesses.’

The company has also launched PrintAutoMate, cloud-based software aimed at standardising output operations and streamlining print workflows for businesses dealing with diverse data, media and products. It automatically converts printing data into pre-registered fixture layout data, assigns print jobs to operators, and seamlessly integrates with VersaWorks 6 Rip software, to improve efficiency and minimise errors in production.

Mr Miller added, ‘PrintAutoMate is an asset for businesses offering personalisation services, particularly in e-commerce, by automating complex printing tasks and significantly enhancing work efficiency.’

Accessible via the Premium Plan of Roland DG Connect, PrintAutoMate is offered on a 90-day free trial, inviting Roland DG inkjet users to experience the benefits of its enhanced workflow.

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Prior to the new installation, jobs on rigid media such as plastic, vinyl, Foamex, Correx, PVC or acrylics would either have been screen printed, requiring a minimum quantity of around 50 to make the set-up economically viable, or roll-printed on a Roland solvent printer that required 24 hour degassing before lamination and mounting. With the digital print and cut setup, there is no minimum order requirement and the need for laminating onto materials is removed as the Gibson printer works directly on the substrate.

Owner Terry Gall explained the choice of equipment thus: ‘We hadn’t heard of Gibson before but were very impressed at the demo site we visited. Compared to the alternatives it’s cheaper to buy, but what’s surprised us is how cheap it is to run. The inks cost less than screen printing or solvent inks, and we’ve calculated the power consumption is way less than expected, at about £6 a day.’

The Almeida cutter was an important part of the package, too. ‘We used to buy materials cut to size, but now we can print multiple signs in one pass and the cutter does the rest. It’s also really versatile, we can change the blades, cut all kinds of shapes, sheets of stickers, and more,’ confirms Mr Gall.

The company is now looking to expand the range of applications it can support, and with half the work coming via web orders, is well-positioned to spot emerging trends and opportunities. One potential application is in Braille printing of signs, with the raised characters produced by layering the white ink in the printer.

‘All together we’re expecting this machine to contribute to a big rise in turnover in the coming year,’ notes Mr Gall.

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Established in 1995, SAM Cases supplies clients that include BAE Systems, CX Auto Group, ITV, the NHS, Smith Myers Communications, Starlink and Qinetiq. As the company has grown, it has expanded its printing capabilities and now provides digital vinyl printing, flatbed UV printing, screen printing, in-mould labelling, and vinyl case wrapping. Printers from Roland DG have played an increasing role in this over the last two years, specifically the VersaUV LEC2 S-series flatbed and the VersaUV LEC2-640 for roll-fed vinyls.

SAM Cases’ managing director Mathew Addy explained, ‘As an established and expanding business, we wanted to move all our printing in-house, and who better to do it with than Roland DG? The Roland DG machines, especially the S-Series, enable faster turnarounds due to UV technology, allow us to print above the standard CMYK colour gamut, and print onto virtually any surface, giving us the ability to create totally bespoke packaging.’

Roland’s Eco-UV 5 inks dry immediately under low-temperature LED lamps, yielding more robust graphics than alternative technologies, while the flatbed printing provides a quick and easy way to add corporate branding or personalisation to any case.

‘Roland DG’s state-of-the-art UV printing technology has not only revolutionised the way that our cases look, but also made the graphics printed onto the cases more robust. The UV prints last longer than alternative methods and mean that our customers hardly have to come back to us due to colour fading or damage,’ noted Mr Addy.

The LEC2 roll-to-roll UV printer isw fitted with Roland’s take-up system, which rewinds printed material automatically, helping to manage unmanned production. This has allowed SAM Cases to save on labour whilst running longer monitored runs.

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The litho-based  company moved into wide-format five years ago with a Roland roll-fed solvent machine, but growing demand, including for printing onto rigid media, which meant time-consuming mounting, led director Gordon Bryan to look for a hybrid machine that could handle both kinds of work.

‘SOS offered us the Xenons machine and the Almeida cutter for less than the price of a standalone hybrid machine from their rivals – it’s literally two machines for less than the price of one,’ said Mr Bryan, adding, ‘ At first, this put me off a little – you wonder how it’s possible – but we were reassured that the Xenons uses the latest Ricoh print heads, which is the key component.  Other users gave us good reports, and the test prints we did looked great.

‘The cost may have been low, but the quality has been high. I can honestly say it has performed perfectly from day one, no matter what we have thrown at it. We’re very concerned with colour accuracy and it’s been calibrated to match the output of our other devices. The other big plus is productivity; because it’s an LED UV machine, drying is instant, and because we opted for a rolling bed on the Almeida cutter, we have automated poster cutting which saves us upwards of four hours a day and frees up our operator.

‘The cutter is very versatile, it comes with a big set of tools as standard – not as optional extras. The speed is great and the accuracy is amazing,’ Mr Bryan added.

The Xenons X180 has a maximum width of 1.88m and will print on ACP, foam, board, flute board, glass, ceramic tiles, wood, and on a wide range of vinyl and flexible media. The Almeida cutter is available in a wide range of sizes, in this case 2.5 x 1.3m.

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