Based at Soyang Europe’s headquarters in Accrington, the new site houses a range of printing equipment, sewing machinery, flatbed printers, reel-fed printers, routers and cutters, all of which will be available for live demonstrations during visits, plus its own ranges of digitally printable wide-format and super-wide format media and surface coverings.

Open daily, the facility will run in the style of a print house, with solutions ranging from narrow width machines up to 5m roll printers, in addition to finishing equipment to complement this hardware. Included in the print machinery on display is the Fujifilm Acuity Ultra R2 5m-wide printer, sold by Soyang Europe under a partnership agreed last year. Soyang will be running its wide range of specialist materials on all the printers in-house, allowing visitors to gauge for themselves the quality and how they perform in a print house environment. 

‘If you come to Soyang, it’s not just a normal demo site where you’ll just go and see machines; you’ll see an actual facility with one and a half million square metres of material in it,’ Soyang Europe managing director Mark Mashiter said. ‘That shows how we support the industry in terms of stock levels. It’s not just about machinery, it’s about the media as well and, specifically, the right media for the right printer.

‘We want to be different; the printers will be used all the time as we will be producing our own samples, so there will always be something running in the demo room.’

The new space is being overseen by Gareth Newman, an experienced industry expert who joined Soyang Europe as Technical Applications Manager earlier this year. Mr Newman will be on hand to guide visitors through the options available from Soyang and to match solutions to their requirements.

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Sarah Winterbottom, group sales director, Soyang/Josero, commented, ‘The Fujifilm Acuity Prime is the perfect high production, high quality flatbed addition to Josero’s offering. It’s a great time for us to be strengthening our partnership, as businesses are looking for versatility, efficiency and quality in a cost-effective solution. We can’t wait to start showing our customers what the range can do!

Andy Webb, UK sales manager Wide-Format Inkjet at Fujifilm UK, added: ‘We are delighted to have Josero on board as a Fujifilm Acuity Prime partner. Josero has a great track record within the industry for being a trusted company with a focus on delivering high levels of customer service, and we as a company decided that they are the kind of partner we want to go to market with our Acuity Prime flatbed.’

The Acuity Prime flatbed prints on various rigid and flexible media for a range of applications, using its five independent vacuum zones and jettable primer, at up to 150sqm/hr. It will be Acuity Prime will be demonstrated at Sign & Digital UK on 21–24 March 2023.

Digital Printer will post its Sign & Digital UK preview shortly and will update it as the show approaches.

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Sign & Digital UK was one of the first shows to resume its normal schedule after the interruptions of the pandemic years, with a respectable showing in March 2022, and is back this year with increasing confidence as the industry continues to recover from the lockdown periods of interrupted business.

Industry names already confirmed include Roland DG, EFI, eProductivity Software, Epson UK, Morgana, Premier, Hexis UK, Vivid Laminating Technologies and swissQprint. According to organisers Faversham House, there will also be a host of familiar – and maybe not so familiar – exhibitors ready and waiting to welcome visitors from across the sign and large-format digital printing world.

Event director Jenny Matthew says, ‘Last year we had a great show, even though the country was just getting used to the idea of getting out again. However, this year promises to be a no-holds-barred celebration of all that is good and great in the wonderful world of sign-making and large-format digital printing. I have spoken to many people who say that SDUK 2023 will be their first opportunity to see the latest technology and innovation for several years, and they can’t wait.’

In addition to the array of exhibitors on the show floor, there are other features at the show, designed to educate and inform sign-makers of all shapes, sizes and experience levels. One of these is the UK Wrap Battle 2023, hosted by Hexis, will run throughout the show, giving visitors a chance to see the very best practitioners of the vehicle wrapping trade as they demonstrate their skills in a battle of speed and accuracy to claim the title of Best UK Installer 2023.

Meanwhile, the Sign Studio aims to have something for everyone in vinyl signage, from novices to veterans. Running every day, this features live demonstrations and practical workshops hosted by experienced sign-maker Paul Hughes. These sessions will allow visitors to learn more about the basics of vinyl application, vehicle livery, wall coverings and other uses for the material.

‘I will give practical, hands-on demonstrations designed to inform people looking to take their first steps in vinyl application and those wanting to add to and develop their skills. There will even be something for more seasoned pros on the hunt for the latest tips and tricks,’ says Mr Hughes.

Explanations forthcoming

Complementing these are the SDUK Explains Lounge and a brand-new feature, the Sign Surgery, both hosted by the International Sign Association UK (ISA–UK). Throughout the show, there will be daily presentations and panel sessions covering the big issues affecting sign-makers and wide-format print providers. The topics covered in these will include sustainability, overcoming the skills shortage challenge and how to grow your business.

Building on last year’s outing, the Explains Lounge will host a comprehensive programme of presentations designed to engage, inform and inspire. All of the sessions are free to attend and there is no requirement to pre-register.

Event Director Jenny Matthew explains, ‘We have invited experienced experts in their field to explain how to make your sign business more successful. They will look at various important topics, such as when it’s right to outsource or take work in-house, how to win more tenders, and how sign-makers can work together to build their businesses.’

Panel beating

Daily panel sessions bring a range of industry experts together to discuss the big issues affecting the signage industry. On Tuesday 28 March, a group of experts from BPIF and POPAI will examine the danger of ‘sustainability satigue’. They will discuss how to reinvigorate the market to keep sustainability in focus and benefit themselves, their customers and the planet.

Wednesday’s panel session (29 March) will be hosted by Women in Sign-Making, focusing on the role of men in supporting women in sign-making. On Thursday 30 March, the panel will examine the skills shortage affecting sign-makers up and down the country. They will discuss the pain points for the sign industry, and highlight the key actions companies can take to overcome them.

Successful surgery

A new feature for 2023, the Sign Surgery will take place alongside the Explains Lounge and will be an informal environment where visitors can put questions to ISA-UK directors. Craig Brown, CEO of the ISA UK, says, ‘The Sign Surgery will be a vibrant and welcoming place where visitors come to discuss the issues and challenges most important to them. ISA members with decades of experience in all areas of sign-making will be available throughout the show to answer questions and discuss real business issues. We have seen and lived it all in signage as a group, and this is a rare opportunity to share this knowledge with fellow sign-makers.’

Ms Matthew concludes, ‘The Explains Lounge will be based in the heart of the show and we have put together a schedule that should have something of interest and value for everyone attending the show. Whether you are a small start-up looking to gain vital knowledge and advice from experienced industry experts, or a more seasoned professional wanting to keep up to speed with the latest developments, we have something for you on the Explains Lounge.’

Exhibitor highlights

Materials from Drytac for the large-format print and signage applications will appear on a variety of stand across Hall 2 at the NEC, where they will feature in product demonstrations from Epson, Roland DG, Soyang Europe and Mimaki distributor Hybrid Services. Experts from Drytac will also be in attendance to answer any questions.

Workflow and MIS specialist eProductivity Software (EPS) eProductivity Software is promising an exclusive first look at what it touts as ‘a revolutionary new mobile app that will change the way you approach installations, invoicing and delivery’. The rest of the company’s Productivity Suites and other modular solutions will be in action, with opportunities to speak with experts, about improving workflow, increasing efficiency, or expanding capabilities. Specific technology areas covered by EPS include web-to-print, imposition and print MIS/ERP solutions, backed by live demonstrations and hands-on experiences, plus expert consultations and advice.

Visitors to Mimaki distributor Hybrid Services’ stand will be able to view the new direct-to-film (DtF) TxF 150-75 printer that also made its debut appearance at Printwear & Promotion Live in late February. The Mimaki DTF works on cotton, polyester and polyester blended materials, and the print can be applied to both light and dark coloured fabrics. DtF offers a simpler workflow compared to other garment printing methods, and the inks are Oeko-Tex Eco Passport certified.

Also present on Hybrid’s stand will be the dye sublimation TS330-1600 and the other models in the 330 series of printers, the solvent print-only JV330-160 and its integrated solvent printer/cutter sibling, the CJV330. All three models share a common 1.6m platform, claiming high performance and productivity, coupled with ease of use. On the flatbed UV side, printers at opposite ends of the size spectrum will also be on show, with the A2/A3 format UJF Series displayed alongside the JFX200-2513EX 8 x 4-ft model. Both offer direct to substrate printing on a wide range of materials and items.

Morgana and Intec are partnering to exhibit a full range of die-cutting solutions. This includes the AeroDieCut, which uses existing wood and steel dies for cutting, creasing, perforating, embossing and debossing. For a full digital approach, the highly automated new ColorCut SC6000 is said to provide an ideal entry point. Flatbed die-cutting options from the Intec stable include the creasing and cutting dual-tooled flatbed ColorCut FB775 and ColorCut FB9000 Pro models, which deliver high performance and ‘unparalleled’ media control via creasing forces of up to 1.5kg and a cutting force of up to 1.2kg. Morgana’s top-of-the-range Valiani Integra is suitable for working with thicker substrates and targeted the world of signage and packaging.

The BN-20D desktop printer marks Roland DG’s entry into the direct-to-fabric sector

Premier will be showcasing products from its extensive range of display graphic media including key brands such as Contra Vision, Neschen, Ultraboard, Ritrama and Plexiglas. The company’s team of experts will be on hand to deliver product information, demonstrations and advice on how to transform spaces with memorable, innovative retail displays and graphics.  There will also be live competitions running throughout the course of each of the three days, with some prizes up for grabs and one or two special guest appearances.

PrintiQ will be returning to the show with an increased stand presence and more demonstrators following its success at last year’s event. The MIS developer will bring its latest software, which delivers business intelligence information and builds a managed workflow solution that allows users to see accurately where they are making or losing money and provides data to underpin actions. Among the various modules to be shown are Quote Intelligence, Payment Gateways, Shipping Manager, plus rich API interfaces that connect and drive online systems to create a complete automated ordering and tracking service from ‘quote to delivery’.

A range of wide-format print solutions will be shown by QPS, including a Colorjet Verve 2513 UV flatbed printer running throughout the three-day event, using Nazdar inks., which will also be featured in their own right. QPS will also be able to discuss how DuPont Artistri textile inks, for which is a distributor, will work with ‘almost any’ printer and are suitable for multiple textile applications including apparel, fashion accessories, interior design, exterior flags and signage, soft furnishings, active wear, garment decoration and direct-to-garment printing.

Roland DG will show the new TrueVis models announced in January 2023, including its first resin printer, the AP-640 and the MG & LG series of UV print-and-cut machines. Alongside these newest machines, the VG3-640 and SG3-540/300 printer/cutters will be displayed. Roland hasn’t confirmed but it seems highly likely that the company’s baby DtF printer, the BN-20D, which was shown at Printwear & Promotion Live, will also feature.

Soyang Europe and Josero will demonstrate hardware from manufacturing partners Fujifilm, Jetrix and Mimaki, as well as display an applications wall with products created using its own wide- and super-wide format digitally printable materials. The latter will include non-PVC banner materials, textiles, wallcovering and décor media, plus self-adhesive floor coverings.

Another returning exhibitor from 2022 is SwissQprint, which will be running live demonstrations of the high quality Nyala 4 flatbed UV printer, along with the roll-fed Karibu. Information about other models, including the Kudu, the most recently introduced high-end UV flatbed model capable of over 300sqm/hr output and with 10 configurable colour channels, will also be available. Specialist applications including neon inks, texture printing and 3D effects will be shown in addition.

Show stalwart Trotec will be back too, with a range of product demonstrations, including the biggest of its large-format laser cutters, the SP3000. With laser power options up to 400W, a 3210 x 2210mm working area and a host of productivity features, the PS3000 is designed for demanding production environments and enables an optimised workflow that complements the print process. In addition, Trotec will give live demonstrations of the Speedy 400 Flexx and Q500 laser engraver and cutter systems, which both offer high-quality laser finishing for printed products. The company’s range of sheet materials, including engravable laminates, wood and acrylic, will also be on display.

Vivid Laminating Technologies will be showcasing all its major product ranges: the VeloBlade Nexus range of wide-format digital die-cutters, the Matrix systems for lamination, foiling and special effects, and the Easymount systems for wide-format lamination. Vivid staff will also demonstrate the company’s Zip Core packaging software, which is has been designed to optimise packaging design from start to finish, and the VeloTaper fully-automated flatbed taping system, a patented innovation designed and developed in-house by Vivid in the UK.

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PrintFactory is an SaaS-based suite of workflow software, developed by a team of printers, to solve the everyday challenges faced by wide-format operators. It is available via a global network of network of distributors and resellers and is marketed as ‘making a lasting impression with its great ease of use and ability to deliver better colour, consistently, while saving ink, time, media, and money.’

Sarah Winterbottom, managing director at Josero, commented, ‘We couldn’t be happier to be offering PrintFactory’s world-class workflow software solutions to Josero customers. PrintFactory is all about improving the wide-format printing process and making life easier for printers through smarter, simplified ways of working, resulting in more productivity and more profit. That ethos makes them a perfect fit for Josero, as we’re always looking for ways to deliver even more value to our customers and help them get the absolute most out of their print products and services.’

PrintFactory’s marketing manager Debra Roussouw added, ‘Josero is a fantastic addition to our network of partners. PrintFactory is workflow software created by wide-format printers, for wide-format printers, so our tools are designed with printers’ everyday headaches and the leading causes of bottlenecks in mind, and we’re delighted to be combining that unique expertise with the technical proficiency of the Josero team to bring fully-optimised wide-format workflows to even more print businesses.’

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The installation follows the announcement in September 2021 that Josero had been appointed as a UK reseller for the full range of Ricoh’s leading Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printers and latest generation of wide-format Latex printers. The two businesses are now working together to deliver all these advanced printing solutions to end-user customers throughout the UK.

It is as part of this effort the Ricoh Pro L5160e has been installed in Cambridgeshire, with Josero already conducting live demos for potential customers. Based on Ricoh’s inkjet head and ink technology expertise, the Ricoh Pro L5160e and Ricoh Pro L5130e machines are an evolution from the pre-existing Pro L5160 and Ricoh Pro L5130 Latex large-format printers. Both machines print at just under 47sqm/hr with potential applications and colour capabilities extended by the addition of Ricoh’s enhanced quick-drying white, green and orange inks.

Sarah Winterbottom, the managing director of Josero, commented on the installation. ‘The latest Ricoh latex machines filled a gap in our product range and have been a powerful addition to our line-up,’ she said. ‘As a business, we’re extremely focused on sustainability and the Ricoh Pro Latex large-format printer technology fits perfectly within this ethos.

‘It’s fantastic that the machine has now been installed and we can showcase this eco-conscious technology to our loyal customers in our own demonstration facility.’

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The company, which was founded by managing director Jayson Godridge 14 years ago, specialises in a range of services from standard shop signage projects to large rebrands, vehicle graphics, wallcoverings and vinyl graphics.

Mr Godridge says that he always aims to keep the business moving forward but, ‘We knew we weren’t going to be able to achieve that with our current machinery.’ Instead the company needed something faster, that offered higher quality and increased output. After a special summer event at the Agfa showroom in Rugby, Mr Godridge opted for a larger model – the Agfa Anapurna H2500i LED.

‘It was bigger than the machines we were originally looking at,’ said the MD. ‘But when I went to see it in action at Agfa it was clear that it would fit just fine, and that it was definitely the machine that would help us grow and push into different areas and different types of work. As soon as I walked in and saw it printing, I knew I wanted to go for it!’

Freestyle had an existing relationship with Josero, and with consumables sales manager Mitch Anstey in particular. Mr Godridge explained, ‘We were initially talking to another company about the same machine, but having had a good experience with Josero in the past, the trust was there and I felt much more comfortable working with them on the purchase than anybody else.’

The Agfa machine is now up and running in Bath, with Josero overseeing both the installation and training processes. According to Mr Godridge it is ‘already earning its keep.’ He expanded ‘The bottleneck doesn’t exist at all anymore. The machine is a beast, and is just churning through the work. It’s very reliable and working really well.’

Specifically the press is helping Freestyle produce exhibition graphics, display boards and POS projects, and it’s helping the company to promote their eco-friendly range of products as well. Beyond this, however, it is opening up new possibilities as well. ‘We’re using different media,’ the MD expands, ‘and we’re able to work with wider media because it’s a hybrid machine. We can print rolls, which we couldn’t do before on our flatbed, so we’re now printing rolls up to 2.5 metres wide which has massively increased our output.

‘We’ve been approached by other sign companies that have heard we have the machine, and we’ve been producing work for them when they’re over capacity themselves, so we’re seeing unexpected advantages. I really wasn’t expecting trade work to be coming off the back of this new machine, especially so quickly. We’ve done a few decent-sized jobs from it, and those companies were really impressed by how quickly we could turn it around.’

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Ricoh’s DTG printer range includes three models: the entry level Ricoh Ri 100, the mid-range Ricoh Ri 1000 and the commercial print focused Ricoh Ri 2000. They have been specifically developed to meet the needs of promotional printing on items such as T-shirts, cloth bags, hoodies, sweatshirts and socks.

In terms of the Latex models the two firms have renewed their partnership to to encompass the latest generation of Ricoh Pro L5160e and Ricoh Pro L5130e extended gamut wide-format Latex printers. Based on Ricoh’s  inkjet head and ink technology, these printers are an evolution from the successful Ricoh Pro L5160 and Ricoh Pro L5130 Latex large format printers and add green and orange ink to the set-up.

Three staggered Ricoh print heads achieve class leading print speeds of 47sqm/hr on outdoor high speed four colour mode and 25sqm/hr on indoor standard four colour mode. As well as running the expanded gamut inks, print operations can also run double CMYK for increased productivity, and CMYK and white for transfer materials, metallics and dark substrates. Josero will also be supplying its customers with original Ricoh inks for use in the above machines.

Talking about the new arrangement, Sarah Winterbottom, managing director of Josero, said, ‘Ricoh is a globally recognised and respected company within the print industry and commercial customers have real confidence in the brand.

‘We undertook extensive in-house testing and made a number of site visits and were very impressed with the latest Ricoh Latex models. They fill a gap in our product range, and we see Ricoh’s increased focus and continued expansion within the large format digital print market as a very positive step.

‘Additionally, we are growing our media side of the business; entry into the Latex market is important to us as part of our social responsibility to move forward in a more environmentally friendly way.’

In terms of the DTG printers, Ms Winterbottom added, ‘Ricoh’s DTG printers enhance our impressive array of hardware solutions and enable businesses to diversify and enter into the booming promotional and personalised print markets. We already have a Ri100 in our showroom ready to showcase to our loyal customers and can’t wait for the Latex demonstration printer to arrive.’

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Founder Loic Delor will remain a company director but is stepping back from the day-to-day running of the business to focus on product development and special projects.

Ms Winterbottom, formerly business development manager, has been acting managing director since 4 January 2021 and the promotion will become official on 6 April.

‘This is a very exciting opportunity for me personally and also for the future of Josero,’ the new MD said. ‘I am thrilled that Loic has the confidence in me to take over the running of the business, and look forward to continuing to grow it alongside the excellent team we have in place. It has been an interesting few months but I am pleased with the developments we have made during this challenging time, and I am looking forward to planning for the months and years ahead. I would also like to thank our customers and suppliers, without whom none of it would be possible, for their ongoing support.”

Ms Winterbottom, who is the co-founder of Women in Signs and Graphics, has more than 20 years’ experience in the print industry, holding a number of senior roles before joining the team at Josero in October 2019.

Mr Delor added, ‘When Sarah joined the business, she brought different experience, energy and perspective. Within a few weeks it became very clear that she integrated very well into the team, and embraced Josero’s core business values and spirit, and from there Sarah contributed over and beyond her role, exceeding all expectations. 

‘Josero has grown a lot over the years and there was a need for a new face with the right energy and vision and the ability to take the company to the next level, and Sarah is the perfect person to take on that challenge.’

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Portfolio director Rudi Blackett says of Sign & Digital UK 2019, ‘This year’s show is bursting at the seams. It’s three days dedicated to helping visitors level-up their business.

‘There will be inspiring talks and topical panel debates in the Main Stage theatre and two live demo areas – Décor Live Demonstrations and Retail is Detail. This year we’re introducing a zone dedicated to digital signage, we’re hosting the UK Hexis wrap battles and some major product launches. We’ll also be running our ever-popular educational workshops and Adobe and Corel software theatres.’

‘Content is becoming increasingly important at this event. In recent times there’s been a clear emphasis on user applications, and SDUK visitors are keen to see what’s possible in terms of output and to be inspired with creativity. It is no longer a visit to see what kit is available, it’s now about what you can do with the output from those products. Demonstrations and practical workshops are key elements of the show now.

‘Beyond the supplier-led live demonstrations and practical workshops, there’s also a real demand for business advice and inspiration as the current challenging market continues to impact the industry. This year, the Main Stage will offer some seminars presented by business experts, meaning our visitors will be able to benefit from top business advice and have their questions personally answered.’

AXYZ Automation Group will demonstrate its Trident print finishing system

Exhibitors

Most interesting for many attendees of course, will be the companies showcasing their latest products, technologies and capabilities. Here, Digital Printer brings you a selection:

Agfa is partnering with its resellers i-Sub Digital and Josero, inviting visitors to ‘Step Up’ their printing capabilities with wide-format solutions.

Kettering-based i-Sub is a wide-format digital print specialist and will be demonstrating Agfa’s 3.2m hybrid Anapurna H3200i LED along with the full suite of options in the Agfa Asanti production workflow. Cambridgeshire based Josero, which offers an extensive portfolio of products for the wide format market, will be exhibiting Agfa’s smaller sibling, the 1.6m hybrid Anapurna H1650i LED with Asanti Render, Agfa’s entry-level workflow solution.

‘Agfa has a long history of working closely with channel partners in the printing industry and we are proud to be supporting both I-Sub Digital and Josero at Sign & Digital 2019,’ explained Bobby Grauf, sales manager for inkjet at Agfa. ‘Their input helps Agfa to create the right solutions for the UK market and visitors to this year’s exhibition will experience this first-hand. We will be exhibiting both ends of our Anapurna printer spectrum for the first time at this show. Both models are driven by Agfa’s award-winning Asanti workflow and both have Agfa-made UV LED inks on board. This makes each solution a ‘Step Up’ in terms of productivity, quality and cost-of-ownership.’

Meanwhile AXYZ Automation Group will demonstrate its Trident print finishing system, incorporating a triple-head configuration and comprising a high-performance routing spindle and tangential/ oscillating knife-cutting units.

Key design features of Trident include a rigid solid steel frame to better accommodate more vigorous machine operation, an exclusive live vacuum deck for optimum material hold-down efficiency and an integrated helical rack and pinion drive system. This latter feature incorporates a multiple gear teeth configuration that ensures more even distribution of the workload, greater routing/cutting precision, faster material throughput and ultimately a longer-than-normal machine life. Readily interchangeable 120mm long blade attachments provide increased cutting efficiency when processing harder, thicker and heavier materials.

AXYX will also promote its 24/7 online spare parts, accessories and software facility. This accommodates the requirements not only of AXYZ router owners but also those of any other make of machine, regardless of type and country of origin.

i-sub will be demonstrating Agfa’s 3.2m hybrid Anapurna H3200i LED Printer

Nottingham-based specialist wide format print distributor ArtSystems has announced it will focus on the latest innovations in retail signage during the three days of the show, as part of the Retail is Detail thread.

The company will be exhibiting cutting-edge products from key vendors including printers from HP, cutting tables from Summa and RIP and workflow technology by Onyx, and will highlight the advantages of integrated print workflows for the production of retail signage. Supporting this, the stand will also feature HP, Neschen and Sihl media brands – and showcase the high-quality output possible with these specialist media ranges.

Charlotte Crampton, workflow development manager for ArtSystems, explained, ‘We wanted to show the flagship print and print finishing solutions of HP and Summa, and demonstrate why – with the HP Latex R2000 and the Summa F1832, both driven by Onyx 18.5 – it’s the perfect combination.

‘This allows us to illustrate the true benefits of a fully integrated workflow around a specific set of retail signage applications.’

Cutting specialist Graphtec GB will be demonstrating selected machines from its portfolio at the NEC. These will include examples from the CE and FC series of cutting/plotters and the F-Mark automatic digital die-cutting system.

The CE6000 series of vinyl cutters includes the Lite-50 and Plus machines. Both are described as ideal low-cost entry-level solutions, with the former, now priced at under £700, bridging the void between the traditional craft and commercial sectors and the latter providing new machine enhancements to better accommodate higher volume production. The FCX2000 supports combined cutting and creasing, while the FC8600 offers a ‘Best in Class’ combination cutting speed and force .

All of the cutters incorporate Graphtec’s proprietary ARMS (Automatic Registration Mark Sensing) system for optimum material alignment and cutting accuracy and ship with Graphtec’s own Pro Studio and (optional) Cutting Master 4 software that enables Adobe Illustrator and CorelDraw integration. Graphtec Pro Studio is based on the popular FlexiSign family of design and production software, developed by software specialist SAi for which Graphtec GB is a distributor in the UK and Ireland.

All of the cutters Graphtec will be showcasing include the Automatic Registration Mark Sensing system

Demonstrating its colour management products for automated colour matching and ink optimisation will be GMG Color, whose ColorServer is suited to signage and large format print applications in which it aims to provide consistent results across different ink and printing processes, devices and substrate types. Software features that will be demonstrated on the stand include automated conversion of RGB, CMYK and mixed image colour data into one output colour space, making manual conversion of multiple image files unnecessary. A new capability in the latest release of ColorServer is adjustment of a digital printing machine to a custom input colour space via GMG SmartProfiler, to improve accuracy of colour reproduction.

Visitors to the show can also hear GMG colour expert Paul Bromley present on the Main Stage in the panel session on print workflows. Head there on Thursday 4 April to find out more about colour matching across devices and substrates, automating colour management within your workflow, and cutting consumables usage while improving colour results – plus your chance to ask questions.

Kew Green Hotels use 3M DI-NOC films at Ibis Styles Crewe Hotel

Debuting three new products in April will be Mimaki’s UK and Ireland distributor Hybrid Services. The high performance Mimaki TS55 dye sublimation textile printer for soft signage, retail graphics, fashion and sportswear will make its first UK appearance. There will also be the unveiling of two new Mimaki inks: the recently announced metallic LED UV ink for the Mimaki UJF-7151plus, suitable for high-end graphics for packaging, small- to mid-format signage and bespoke décor and giftware, and also a clear ink option for the popular UCJV300 Series LED UV printer/cutters.

‘Production printing is a core theme for the Hybrid stand at Sign & Digital UK this year,’ stated Brett Newman, chief operations manager at Hybrid. ‘Across Mimaki’s range of solvent printers and integrated printer/cutters, LED UV roll-to-roll and flatbed machines and a host of textile and dye sublimation technology, we’re able to deliver a production solution for print companies, whatever their volume requirements. Reducing lead times, increasing profitability, removing barriers to entry and delivering high quality output with the minimum of user intervention – all run centrally to Mimaki’s innovative approach.’

Ricoh UK will be showcasing its latest inkjet printers, both roll-fed and flatbed, including a new latex printer, a new smaller UV flatbed and a new mid-range direct-to-garment printer.

The company’s presence at Sign & Digital UK 2019 is part of its global Ignite strategy to expand into display printing via inkjet applications and follows on from its participation at Fespa 2018.

‘As with our hugely successful approach to the commercial print market, we’re looking to help wide format sign and display printers to increase their margins, keep ahead of the competition, and improve customer satisfaction,’ explained Simon Issacs, national sales director, adding, ‘Our customers tell us they value our partnership approach because we are helping them through their analogue to digital transition. They know we are there to support them all the way, beyond the technology in how they can use it to create new products and services. We’re looking forward to translating that to the Sign & Digital audience, for whom we’re sure we can make a positive difference.’

William Smith will be showing solutions from Squid

Following more than a year of intensive development, Roland DG will be displaying a number of its printers in Birmingham. These will include the VersaExpress RF-640 8 Colour, which was previewed at last year’s event. The printer has an additional four ink channels for additional primary colours, which allows it to accurately reproduce up to 99% of Pantone+ Solid Coated colours which. This year’s show will see an upgrade of the RF-640.

Additionally, Roland DG’s first direct-to-garment printer, the VersaStudio BT-12, will be on display. Described as user-friendly, affordable and compact textile printing solution, this model allows users to print directly to t-shirts, tote bags, cushion covers and any other cotton-based textile in a matter of minutes. Roland will also be displaying its headline print-and-cut offering, the TrueVIS VG series. As well as inspecting the new machines and output samples, visitors will also have the chance to speak to members of the Roland DG team and get advice on all aspects of wide-format digital printing.

Spandex will showcase swissQprint’s Impala, a UV LED flatbed printer from the high-end Swiss manufacturer. The latest model adds further developments to the printer including a brand new control system and a dual-roll printing option. swissQprint’s modular flatbed systems allow customers to ‘build’ their machine to their specific business needs, which includes nine freely configurable colour channels, supporting white ink, varnish, primer and other options.

‘With a swissQprint machine, customers can take on a much wider variety of jobs, ranging from standard hoarding signs to luxury retail graphics, without needing to invest in multiple pieces of equipment,’ expanded swissQprint product manager Steve Pridham. ‘swissQprint is constantly evolving its systems and the improved material handling on roll-to-roll as well as the dual roll option, makes this machine even more versatile.’

Spandex’s stand will also feature a wrap section, dedicated to Arlon, where Spandex will be demonstrating Arlon SLX Cast Wrap and the IllumiNite Wrap both with Flite Technology as well as a brand new product being seen for the first time in the UK.

The Mimaki Ts55-1800 textile printer will feature on the Hybrid Services stand

Trotec will debut two new devices at the show. One is the most recent addition to the budget end of its laser cutting range, the R500, and the other is an as-yet-unannounced ‘next generation’ model.

The entry-level R500 offers a 1300 x 900mm working area and is best suited to cutting applications in signage, model-making and prototyping. It can cut acrylics and wood up to 15mm thick, as well as common signage materials including paper and textiles. Trotec says the unit’s ergonomic design and large viewing pane facilitate loading, unloading and inspection of work in progress.

In addition to the laser cutters, Trotec will bring its range of sheet materials to the show, including recent additions such as glitter and mirrored acrylic, TroCraft Eco biodegradable fibre board and a new plastic laminate designed specifically for digital printing.

William Smith will be showing examples from its range of architectural finishes and wall/window decoration films. These include solutions from 3M, for which the company is the largest UK stockist and distributor, Avery Dennison, Cover Styl’ and Squid.

The Squid Window Textile Film is the latest addition to the company’s materials portfolio. A transparent woven polyester fabric, it can be applied to any size and shape of flat window or glass partition. In addition to preserving privacy, the film allows the entry of natural light during the day whilst reducing UV transmission. Available in five solid colours, the film has a MI/BI fire rating and can be printed by UV and inkjet processes, with a latex-compatible version to follow soon.

For interior and exterior architectural finishes 3M DI-NOC is a range that replicates hundreds of different materials including wood, metal, stone, leather, marble and concrete. There is also a range of architectural films from Cover Styl’. Available in hundreds of finishes, the films are especially suitable for interior applications.

Avery Dennison’s MPI800 series of textured and high-tack interior wall decoration films is available in a choice of six options, including canvas, crushed stone and natural stucco.

Vehicle wraps are a growing application for wide format print; Spandex is one of the suppliers who can advise

Zünd UK will demonstrate two different cutters: the 3.2 x 3.2m G3 3XL3200 and the more compact S3 L1200, which has a working area of 1.8 x 1.2m.

The G3 can process a wide variety of roll media such as textiles, vinyls and banners as well as rigid media including acrylic, MDF, ACM and expanded PVC. Designed for high volume production, this large-format cutting system is uniquely qualified for industrial use and multi-shift, 24/7 operation. 

The company will also be demonstrating as S3 L1200 machine, configured for the cutting and creasing of carton and corrugated sheets, as well as roll media. The cutter will be fitted with a robotic arm to show its productivity and accuracy in automatically picking cut parts off the machine bed, accelerating processes for a range of applications within the sign industry and freeing up operators’ time to work on other tasks.

GMG Colour will demonstrate its colour management products for automated colour matching and ink optimisation

Newcomers

Of course there will be many more companies exhibiting at this year’s event, including many coming for the very first time. These include ABC Display Industry, Liquid Lens Systems, Merlin Transfers, Premier Paper Group, Protek, Signzworld, Solar Illuminations, Target Transfers, Trade Sign Shop, UK Feather Flags and Viscom LEDs & Frames.

This year’s event will see several new features incorporated into the three days, including the Digital Signage Zone, dedicated to connecting those interested in expanding their business with potential partners and experts able to help people grow into Digital Signage solutions. The area will feature a devoted theatre and an accompanying Digital Café.

SDUK has also partnered with Art Systems to present a new live demo zone called Retail is Detail. This area will put on three demonstrations each day to show visitors how to make their retail and point-of-sale projects more effective.

The area will focus on the latest innovations in retail signage by showcasing cutting edge products from some of Art Systems’ key vendors such as HP, Summa and Onyx.

The Main Stage Theatre will return with all new topics to reflect current industry trends, including: Print Finishing, Interior Décor, Textile Print and Materials, Sustainability and the Environment, Print for Personalisation, and Colour Management and Workflow and of course, the effects of Brexit, whatever they might be by then!

SDUK has also teamed up with Hexis to host this year’s Battle UK Wrap Contest. With two heats and a semi-final taking place on the show floor each day, participants will compete in timed, 10-minute heats. The winners from each day will go head-to-head in the grand finale, on the show’s closing day, Thursday 4 April.

Whichever aspect of the wide-format and related businesses appeals to you, there’s plenty to see and do at the show, so put it in your diary and we’ll see you there.

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Hybrid’s chief operations manager Brett Newman, commented, ‘Josero is a well-established company with 15 years’ experience in the sign and graphics market and Hybrid is looking forward to working alongside their team in this important sector for Mimaki.’

Cambridge-based Josero offers a complete portfolio of wide and super-wide printers as well as technical support and backup. Its inkjet specialists have considerable inkjet knowledge and its trained engineers are on hand to support the company’s installed base.

‘We’re absolutely delighted to join forces with Hybrid. Mimaki offer an innovative product range that complements the hardware we already offer perfectly,’ stated Josero managing director Loic Delor.
Josero already has models from Mimaki’s JV range of solvent printers, CJV range of solvent printer/cutters and FX cutting plotters as well as the recently launched LA-160 laminator in the showroom at its headquarters, ready for demonstration.

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