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CONTENTS Issue 363 November | December 2026 ISSN 2977-005X News Industry 06 Business 09 People 13 Kit & Consumables 15 Software 17 Specials Fresh Perspectives: Kierian Cameron 19 NEW: The Gospel According to Mark 22 Industry Tips: Colin Sinclair McDermott 25 Company Spotlight: Zebra Print 30 Under the Hood: ACCURIOPRESS C5080 33 Features Trending: AI in Print 37 Business: Trade Printers 43 Hardware: Wide-Format Printers Pt. 2 49 Software: Workflow Software 55 Specialist: Guillotines 60 IN THIS ISSUE 33 49 43 13 19 30 3 November | December 2026 - Issue 363 37 printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine printmonthly_signlink printmonthly 06 08
Hello and welcome to Print Monthly November/December! Well here we are closing out another year in print but also following up with our first edition since The Print Show at the end of September. It’s hard not to have a feeling of melancholy when it comes to this part of the year as the winter settles in, and many big projects, events, and holidays are now distant memories. Despite that, this year’s Print Show had many of the hallmarks of a resilient and positive industry, as thousands of people flocked to the NEC for three days of networking, learning, and discovering new solutions. Seeing all the videos and pictures of people attending the show on social media was testament to the enduring importance of the show, but also the benefit of getting out of your normal workplace and catching up with industry friends, or seeing new hardware, software, and substrates. For myself it was fantastic to continue interviewing various visitors and exhibitors on the Print Monthly stand, as well as make use of The Podcast Booth which was utilised by various familiar faces in the industry. To catch up with it all simply head over to our Print Monthly and SignLink YouTube channels (link on the left) or check out The Print Monthly Podcast on all good audio platforms. As I alluded to earlier, this time of year can get a bit intense with all the chaos of Christmas and New Year, but also businesses can feel the strain regarding new budgets, changing markets, and increased pressures from geopolitical events. Our news section covers many of these elements (pages 6 to 17), including the industry reaction to the Autumn Budget, as well as the evolving situation regarding Royal Mail prices, and new details around the mergers of many big suppliers in the industry. Over with our features and specials, there’s plenty to help lift spirits from money talk, especially with this edition’s Fresh Perspectives (pages 19 to 20). Kierian Cameron is a brilliant source of inspiration and certainly someone who is championing the power of print with her popular publication, Brand Cult. Meanwhile, over with this issue’s Company Spotlight (pages 30 and 31), we hear the inspiring story of Zebra Print, a business which started in a makeshift office 20 years ago and is now a multi-million-pound company operating from a 21,000sq ft. facility in Leeds. With that, I’ll leave you to check out all the information and advice this issue has to offer, and I hope to see you in the next one! ISSUE 363 November | December 2026 Publishing director: Page Tuck Production: ATG Media Contributors: Michael Walker, Colin Sinclair McDermott, Mark Stephenson, Kierian Cameron Contact Editorial: 0117 980 5040 Sales: 0117 960 3255 Production: 0117 980 5041 Accounts: 0117 980 5042 Find us online www.printmonthly.co.uk Socials All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or any information storage or retrieval system without the prior consent of the publisher. The views expressed by contributors to Print Monthly magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or editorial team and Koru Media 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. Koru Media Ltd. retains the right to publish and re-publish any images or information sent to the publication. Koru Media Ltd. Unit G, Link House, Britton Gardens, Kingswood, Bristol BS15 1TF Accounts Jan Thomas jan@linkpublishing.co.uk Features writer Rob Fletcher rob@linkpublishing.co.uk Accounts Kathryn Quinn k.quinn@linkpublishing.co.uk printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine printmonthly_signlink printmonthly MEET THE TEAM PODCAST Scan the QR code to listen to our Print Monthly podcast Commissioning editor Jonathan Pert jonathan@linkpublishing.co.uk EDITOR S NOTE David was happy to provide Colin Sinclair McDermott with a taste of home after he had been away from the UK at events like PRINTING United 2026 SPOTTED AT THE PRINT SHOW 2026 4 website: www.printmonthly.co.uk November | December 2026 - Issue 363 Printed on Sappi Magno Satin from EBB Paper CBP034244 printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine printmonthly_signlink printmonthly Editor David Osgar david@linkpublishing.co.uk Sales executive Billy Milne billy@linkpublishing.co.uk
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6 email: editor@printmonthly.co.uk November | December 2026 - Issue 363 printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine printmonthly_signlink printmonthly INDUSTRY | NEWS Print industry reacts to Autumn Budget 2026 The UK government’s chancellor, John Healey, delivered his first Autumn Budget on October 29th, pitching a strategy of fiscal discipline combined with targeted measures aiming to offer consumers and businesses more support and breathing space. A major pillar of the government’s growth strategy focuses on private capital mobilisation, backed by a £15.4bn injection into the National Wealth Fund and a additional £5bn for the British Business Bank, aiming to unlock private capital directly into UK private markets. Conversely, certain sectors face heavier tax burdens to fund short-term relief packages. Financial firms face a targeted squeeze as the Bank Corporation Tax Surcharge will increase from 3% to a total of 6% for 15 months from January 1st, 2027, while savers and landlords face a four-percentage point increase on savings and property income tax rates from April 2027. Overheads also remain tight on factory floors as businesses continue to navigate the cumulative impact of recent changes to employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) and the rolling implementation of the Employment Rights Act. To offer immediate “breathing space” against global macroeconomic headwinds, the chancellor confirmed a freeze on fuel duty alongside a £2.6bn Household Energy Payment, providing £100 winter rebates to 20 million homes. Leaders from the print industry across the UK have reacted to the budget, giving their insights about what the Autumn Budget announcements might mean for the sector. The British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF), which communicates and lobbies the UK government through a structured strategy of direct advocacy, grassroots networking, and official consultations, produced an article breaking down the Budget and offering advice to its members and the wider print industry. In that article, BPIF chief executive officer, Charles Jarrold, says: “Our biggest ask was for a Budget that wouldn’t load yet more costs onto business. This only leads to lower investment, hampered productivity, and fewer jobs – a contradiction of the growth we all want to see. “What we got was a mixed bag for business – nothing catastrophic, but nothing that offers any meaningful breathing space either. Employment costs remain high across the industry, especially following 2025’s increase to Employer NICs. The chancellor has shown he’s not afraid to reverse his predecessor’s decisions, so we would have liked to have seen some adjustment to the Employer NICs regime that would begin to undo that damage.” Phil McMullin, head of sales for Commercial & Industrial Printing and Business Systems at Epson UK, has welcomed the Budget’s emphasis on supporting small businesses and the additional backing for the British Business Bank, while stressing that support must reach those at the earliest stages. McMullin says: “The Budget placed a welcome emphasis on supporting small businesses, including additional backing for the British Business Bank. The priority now is ensuring that support reaches these entrepreneurs at the earliest stages, alongside more established firms looking to expand.” Make UK, an organisation supporting manufacturing industries across the UK, characterised the Budget as having falling short of delivering the changes that manufacturers need to invest and grow. In his analysis of the Budget, chief executive officer of Make UK, Steve Phipson, says: “We said this Budget was the first real test of the government’s pledge to reindustrialise Britain. Today they failed to address the one issue that would enable this – high industrial energy costs. “Our industrial electricity costs are the highest in the world. As I told the chancellor last week, this is having a ruinous effect on investment and requires urgent action. It is hugely disappointing that he didn’t listen to a sector that supports 2.6m jobs and accounts for 42% of UK exports.” Phipson goes on to describe the Budget as having failed to address the fundamental costs holding back investment and growth in manufacturing. He adds: “We will continue to push the government to make reindustrialisation an economic reality rather than an empty political slogan.” By Jonathan Pert The Budget is the first delivered under Andy Burnham’s Labour government
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8 email: editor@printmonthly.co.uk November | December 2026 - Issue 363 printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine printmonthly_signlink printmonthly INDUSTRY | NEWS Report says printed ads leave people happiest A new global report from global media association, FIPP, and UPM Communication Papers shows that printed magazine advertising is outperforming social media and influencer advertising in trust, relevance, and happiness. The study, which UPM cites as “the most extensive research into print advertising conducted in over five years”, found that printed magazine advertising has the highest happiness score of any advertising format measured in the study. 63% of regular readers in the study say that magazine ads make them happy, compared with only 39% for influencer ads. 66% of magazine readers also say that reading magazines leaves them feeling good about themselves. According to the study, one driver of the results is the human factor, as two in three readers prefer that magazines have been created by humans rather than AI. New Royal Mail price changes come into effect A new set of Royal Mail price changes come into effect on October 5th, meaning parcel stamp prices have risen by between 35p and £1.45 per item, representing an average increase of roughly 8%. Meanwhile, First and Second Class standard letter stamps and large letter stamps remain at their current prices, as well as Mailmark franking prices. Parcelforce Worldwide items requiring manual handling may now incur a new manual handling surcharge of £4.15 per item. The changes follow a regulatory dispute over wholesale price increases that Royal Mail was also planning to introduce. Royal Mail originally planned to implement large-scale price increases for its Network Access and wholesale services, a network used by corporate bulk mailers, utility companies, and direct mail advertisers. The proposed hikes included an approximate 36% increase for Business Mail. The scale of the increase triggered a backlash from the sectors affected, with access operators filing a formal dispute. By Jonathan Pert 70% of readers say they pay more attention to an ad when it matches editorial content By Jonathan Pert “Serious concerns” raised about UPM Sappi Joint Venture UPM and Sappi have received a Letter of Facts from the European Commission raising serious concerns about the proposed graphic paper Joint Venture that the companies are in the midst of finalising. The response from the European Commission means that the graphic paper merger between UPM and Sappi faces the risk of being blocked by European regulators with the Commission remaining particularly concerned about reduced competition and price hikes. The Joint Venture, which was launched in response to demand and cost issues within the paper market, would see UPM Communication Papers and Sappi’s graphic paper business combine with a 50/50 agreement. The Joint Venture would operate as an independent company, managing its own operations, resources, and decisions within agreed shareholder boundaries. UPM and Sappi announced the planned Joint Venture in 2025 and signed the definitive agreement on the transaction in May 2026. The transaction requires merger control approvals, though most jurisdictions including China, South Africa, and the US, which have already approved the transaction. The paper manufacturers have already conditionally selected nominees for senior leadership roles within their planned graphic paper Joint Venture. After receiving the Letter of Facts, UPM has released a statement saying that it “disagrees with the Commission’s preliminary assessment and will continue to engage with the review process.” UPM also highlights its belief that the proposed Joint Venture would “support the long-term competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience of the European graphic paper industry.” The proposed Joint Venture is being reviewed while the European Commission updates its competition rules to fit a changing global economy, aiming to protect fair competition while also supporting business resilience, innovation, and investment. UPM highlights that due to digitalisation, the demand for graphic paper in Europe has reportedly more than halved over the past two decades and is projected to decline further in the coming years. According to the company, the proposed Joint Venture represents a “rational response to these market realities” which would enable “a more orderly adjustment of industry capacity.” UPM believes that without the Joint Venture, the outlook for the European graphic paper industry is likely to become more challenging, with European producers under increasing pressure and customers more dependent on imports. In its statement, UPM concludes: “Continued market decline and overcapacity would make it increasingly difficult to maintain a competitive and reliable European supply base.” The European Commission’s final decision is expected by around the New Year, with UPM and Sappi currently in the process of formally analysing and responding to the Letter of Facts. By Jonathan Pert The Joint Venture would see UPM and Sappi’s graphic paper businesses combine with a 50/50 agreement Ofcom officially accepted a dispute from mail organisations in September, triggering an automatic suspension of planned wholesale price increases
Antalis completes rescue buyout of Ovenden Papers Global paper, packaging, and display solutions supplier, Antalis, has acquired the assets and trade of UK-based material broker, Ovenden Papers, after the company entered formal administration. The company, which entered administration after 83 years of trading, will continue to operate under its family name, with support by Antalis in the UK and Ireland. The acquisition includes the business’ customer relationships, employees, premises, and relevant operational assets. Ovenden has cited cash-flow pressures, escalating warehousing and logistics overheads, and broader economic volatility across the UK paper merchanting sector as key reasons behind the decision to enter administration and secure a rescue buyout. Antalis aims to ensure continuity of service for existing Ovenden customers and protect employee jobs while a full business review takes place. Antalis will work with employees, customers, and suppliers with the goal of minimising disruption as the business becomes part of the Antalis organisation. Nick Thompson, regional managing director for Antalis UK and Ireland, says: “While it is disappointing to see a long-established business such as Ovenden Papers enter administration, we are pleased to have been able to acquire its assets and trade and provide a route forward.” Xerox announces partnership with Xeikon Xerox has announced a new strategic partnership with digital print manufacturer, Flint Group Digital Xeikon, with the aim of broadening its production print portfolio and creating new opportunities in digital packaging, labels, and commercial print applications. As part of the agreement, Xerox will integrate Flint Group Digital Xeikon technology into its production print portfolio, combining its colour presses with Xerox’s Production Ecosystem, global distribution capabilities, and global support infrastructure. The addition of Xeikon solutions aims to complement existing offerings such as the Xerox Iridesse press, as well as the Proficio PX500/PX300, IJP900 inkjet press, and the PrimeLink series. The first press, which will be sold and serviced by Xerox, will be branded under the Xerox name and enhanced with Xerox-developed software, integration, and service capabilities. Additional details, including availability and product specifications, will be announced in the coming months. By Jonathan Pert By Jonathan Pert 9 www.printmonthly.co.uk November | December 2026 - Issue 363 BUSINESS | NEWS Xerox will offer select digital presses under the Xerox brand, powered by Xeikon’s digital printing technology Antalis is set to provide further updates as the transition progresses and the initial operational review is completed EFI and Agfa form new company Electronics for Imaging (EFI) and Agfa-Gevaert (Agfa) have announced a definitive agreement to combine Agfa’s Digital Printing Solutions business with EFI, forming a new full-service industrial inkjet company. The agreement follows a global partnership that EFI and Agfa established in 2024, which enabled both companies to expand their product offerings through access to complementary technologies. EFI is a portfolio company of private equity firm, Siris, who bought EFI in 2019 for around $1.7bn (£1.33bn). As part of the new deal between the two industrial inkjet manufacturers, an affiliate of Siris will hold a 60% interest in the jointly held company, while Agfa will hold a 40% interest. The deal aims to bring together the operating capabilities of EFI and Agfa DPS under a single governance structure, with Siris and Agfa acting as equal partners. Backed by a combined global service network, the new company will aim to draw on a broader base of inkjet expertise spanning print engines, inks, software, and workflow, with the goal of shortening the path from development to production. EFI’s industrial inkjet solutions cover digital single-pass technologies for corrugated packaging, roll-to-roll, hybrid, and textile printers through its Nozomi, VUTEK, and Reggiani platforms. Agfa, meanwhile, has a core focus in display graphics, décor, and packaging applications, with a portfolio that includes the Jeti TAURO, Onset PANTHERA, and SpeedSet ORCA platforms. Together, EFI and Agfa DPS expect to generate approximately $625m (£472.4m) of revenue in 2026 on a pro forma basis and will serve a base of thousands of customers across more than 100 countries. Pascal Juéry, chief executive officer of Agfa-Gevaert, says: “This announcement reflects our longterm commitment to digital printing and our conviction in the future of the industry. By bringing together Agfa DPS and EFI, we are creating a stronger business with greater scale, broader access, and enhanced innovation capabilities. Rather than continue as a standalone business, we are choosing to partner with Siris to unlock the next phase of accelerated growth for our DPS business while maintaining a meaningful upside for Agfa’s stakeholders.” Frank Pennisi, chief executive officer of EFI, adds: “Our partnership with Agfa over the past two years has highlighted the strength of our complementary technologies, expertise, and teams. This combination is a natural next step that allows us to build on that momentum with a broader platform, accelerating innovation and expanding the solutions we can deliver to customers across industrial inkjet.” The proposed transaction is expected to close by the end of 2026 and is subject to customary employee information and consultation processes, regulatory approvals, and closing conditions By Jonathan Pert
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12 email: editor@printmonthly.co.uk November | December 2026 - Issue 363 printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine printmonthly_signlink printmonthly YES Group enters liquidation Your Embroidery Services (YES Group) an engineering company that specialises in embroidery, direct-to-film (DTF), and direct-to-garment (DTG) technology, has announced it has entered voluntary liquidation. Following online speculation, the company has confirmed in an email to customers that it has ceased trading. On October 15th the company confirmed it was working with an appointed liquidator to address the situation and seek the best possible outcome for customers and team members. Brands that YES Group partnered with included Digital Heat FX, Gongzheng, SWF, DTF Station, and Ricoma. The company provided embroidery machines, UV printers, DTF printers, and eco solvent solutions to a range of customers. Following the announcement, UK-based print equipment supplier, China Print Supplies (CPS), has confirmed it will continue to supply ink, spare parts, and servicing for Gongzheng printers across the UK. In a recent statement, CPS noted that it already supplies a range of Gongzheng equipment, reportedly holding supplier relationships to source consumables and parts for any Gongzheng machine in the country, whether or not it sold the machine originally. CPS also noted that it can provide ink and consumables for any Gongzheng machine, as well as spare parts, servicing, and engineering support through its Oswestry-based operation. Last year YES celebrated 30 years in business after officially opening in 1995. In the past year the company exhibited at Printwear & Promotion LIVE! and increased its video output with a series of AI enhanced YouTube videos, with the most recent uploaded on October 9th. In its update to customers, YES says: “As an initial update for our SWF embroidery machine customers, discussions have commenced regarding future servicing arrangements, machine parts, and warranty matters. Although YES will no longer be able to contact customers directly, we encourage you to monitor your email inbox for further updates and advice as more information becomes available.” In the email, YES confirms that all team members have now left the company and are no longer providing servicing, technical assistance, or customer support. Customers in Northern Ireland and Eire have been referred to Neil Branigan who will continue to provide service and support for all customer products. A statement from the YES directors (listed as John Paul Burton and Roy Burton on Companies House) says: “After 31 years of continuous business since February 14th 1995, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to all our valued and loyal customers for their support, trust, and business over those years. “It has been a privilege to serve you, and we are truly grateful to everyone who has been part of our journey.” By David Osgar BUSINESS | NEWS Remaining shares of manroland Goss acquired Manroland Goss, a supplier of web offset equipment and supplies, has now become a 100% subsidiary of the Possehl Group, a Lübeck-based corporate industrial conglomerate. The group has acquired all remaining shares of manroland Goss web systems from previously stakeholder, American Industrial Partners (AIP). Manroland Goss is a separate business to Manroland Sheetfed Systems, which announced its insolvency and ceased operations at its Offenbach factory earlier this year. The global service and spare parts business was later purchased by fellow offset manufacturer Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG). Manroland Web Systems was established in 2012 when it was splintered off from Manroland Sheetfed, which was purchased that same year by Langley Holdings. In 2018, Manroland Web Systems merged with Goss to become the company it is today. Possehl Group previously held a 51% stake in the company as AIP exits the shareholder structure, leaving Possehl to be the main financing company. The company says that this will mean a clear ownership structure leading to shorter decision-making processes and strengthened collaborations with customers and partners. The group also sees this as a sign of a long-term certainty in the investment of the product portfolio, service, spare parts supply, and retrofits provided. Possehl, which was founded in Lübeck in 1847, has been wholly owned by the nonprofit Possehl Foundation for more than 100 years. The group refers to itself as “a Hanseatic owner with a long-term perspective.” Franz Kriechbaum, chief executive officer of manroland Goss, says: “The full acquisition by the Possehl Group gives manroland Goss a clear ownership structure and a robust financial foundation. For our customers, this means, above all, continuity and planning certainty – in terms of investments, service, and the longterm support of their machines. At the same time, we can consistently continue our technological development and our portfolio of solutions.” Manroland Goss has confirmed that day-to-day operations will remain unchanged with the continued strategic focus on both new-equipment business and also aftermarket solutions. “Existing contacts, contracts, and terms and conditions, as well as ongoing projects, will continue as before. Delivery dates and service obligations will also remain in effect,” adds manroland Goss. YES Group exhibited at Printwear and Promotion LIVE! 2026 [L to R] Franz Kriechbaum, CEO of the manroland Goss Group, and Dr -Ing. Joachim Brenk, chairman of the Possehl Group By David Osgar
Baker brothers step up as company directors Independent print and packaging business, Bakers, has appointed Harry and Tom Baker as its directors, formally bringing the third generation of the Baker family into the leadership of the company. Harry has been appointed as commercial director, while Tom takes on the role of operations director. Both have taken on growing responsibility at the company over the past few years and have gradually become more involved in the decisions shaping its future trajectory. Bakers was founded by Roy and Marian Baker in 1973 and is today led by their son, managing director, Steve Baker. Steve felt that the timing was right for Harry and Tom to take the next step, as the company heads into one of the most significant periods of growth and investment in its history. Harry has spent much of the past few years closely involved with BakPac, Bakers’ flexible packaging division, playing a significant role in its commercial growth. As commercial director, his view now broadens across the company’s other divisions, namely Baker Labels, Baker Materials, BakPac, and Sportstiks. Tom’s new role focuses on the operational side of the business including production, processes, systems, training, and standards. He will aim to support the teams already running the day-today operation while bringing greater clarity and structure as Bakers grows. Steve will remain managing director and continue to be closely involved in both the day-to-day business and its longer-term direction. 13 www.printmonthly.co.uk November | December 2026 - Issue 363 By Jonathan Pert PEOPLE | NEWS Tom Baker [L] and Harry Baker [R] have assumed growing leadership roles in recent years BPIF appoints Anthony Rowell to board of directors The British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF) has announced the appointment of Anthony Rowell, customer success and sustainability director at Tradeprint, to its board of directors. Rowell has a longstanding relationship with the BPIF, having been the chair and founding member of its Environmental Working Group where he actively engaged in driving support and change for the print association and its members. During nearly a decade at wholesale printing specialist, Tradeprint, Rowell has gained significant experience in print, sales, and sustainability with a key focus on driving sustainable change across print and its associated industries. His time at Tradeprint is the latest chapter in Rowell’s over 30-year career in print, where he has worked in roles including sales director, business development manager, and client services manager. Anthony Rowell [pictured] says: “It’s a real privilege to be asked to join the BPIF board and I’m grateful for such a warm welcome” By Jonathan Pert Changes announced to HEIDELBERG UK leadership team HEIDELBERG UK has announced the appointment of Neil Fletcher as its new sales and product director, as well as assuming the role of interim managing director of HEIDELBERG UK. The appointment of Fletcher as interim managing director follows the news on October 30th that Ryan Miles had left HEIDELBERG by mutual agreement, seven years after taking on the role of managing director for the UK region. At the time of Miles’ departure, HEIDELBERG stated that the management team and organisational structure of HEIDELBERG UK were otherwise unchanged. In his role as sales and product director, effective from November 2nd, Fletcher will be tasked with further strengthening HEIDELBERG UK’s position as a partner to the printing industry. Fletcher arrives to the role having previously served HEIDELBERG UK for 23 years in a variety of senior sales and management positions. He most recently worked as the head of sales for BFS Pressroom Solutions, having been appointed to the role in February. Neil Fletcher [pictured] previously worked for HEIDELBERG UK for 23 years until 2023 Jonathan Tame departs Two Sides Paper and print advocacy group, Two Sides, has announced the appointment of Josh Birch as its new managing director, taking over from Jonathan Tame who has led the company since 2014. Birch is taking over the role after working for Two Sides for over six years, with his most recent role being as marketing/campaign manager. Two Sides says that Birch has been central to developing the group’s communications, research, member engagement, and campaigns since he joined the company. Speaking about Birch’s appointment, Tame says: “Josh has been an integral part of Two Sides for many years and has made a significant contribution to its success. His knowledge of our campaigns, creative experience, and commitment to our members make him the ideal person to take the organisation forward.” Birch adds: “I am incredibly honoured to become managing director and to build on the exceptional work Jonathan has led over the past 12 years. Two Sides has an exciting opportunity to strengthen the support and value we provide to members and expand our reach into new European markets.” [L to R] Josh Birch is taking over as MD of Two Sides from Jonathan Tame, who has been with the organisation for over 12 years By David Osgar By Jonathan Pert
PRINT ISN’T JUST FOR CHRISTMAS printlover.com/pm merry christmas!
Xerox announces major print portfolio expansion Xerox has announced a major production print portfolio expansion, introducing three new press platforms and enhancements to its existing presses, including a new six-colour flagship press for graphic arts. The kit announcements were made as part of PRINTING United Expo 2026, with the new solutions being demonstrated live at the US print exhibition. The new additions to the portfolio include the Xerox Proficio Jet CS1100, a B3 cut-sheet inkjet press that delivers reported speeds of up to 300 images per minute. The CS1100 offers new Xerox-developed printheads and an ink formulation delivering a 1200 × 1200dpi resolution with two-bit variable-drop imaging designed for precise dot placement. A scalable drying architecture within the press supports media up to 350gm/sq m, including coated stocks. The platform has been developed to allow print providers to shift work including transactional and direct mail, graphic communications, and commercial print onto a single press without losing quality. Xerox also announced the Proficio Jet CF1200, an industrial continuous-feed inkjet press that delivers speeds of up to 525ft/min at 1200dpi within a compact 28ft footprint. The smallest 20” press in its class can reportedly handle between four million and 30 million letter or A4 impressions per month with the goal of helping high-volume print providers increase capacity, operate more efficiently, and protect margins. Rounding off the new presses is the Xerox Proficio PX700 FLX, a new graphic arts production press that offers calculated speeds of up to 120ppm and supports up to six colours inline at rated speed. A new Fluorescent Green specialty toner expands the colour gamut in comparison to previous models and can improve RGB accuracy when paired with Fluorescent Pink. The intelligent automation capabilities of the press have also been enhanced, helping reduce operator intervention and improve consistency. Terry Antinora, president of Global Production Print Services at Xerox, says: “We’re giving print providers a complete inkjet portfolio, embellishment, intelligent automation, and AI-powered tools that help them grow, differentiate, and win. Everything we’re launching is designed to improve customer profitability – not just increase print volume.” The Xerox Proficio PX300 and PX500 have also received feature updates, with the presses now enhanced with new ‘Beyond CMYK’ and fifth-colour options including Gold, Silver, and White to expand opportunities for metallic effects and printing on dark and transparent media. The Proficio PX300 now also features the Xerox PredictPrint Media Manager which uses AI-assisted cloud intelligence to simplify media setup and optimise colour stability. 15 www.printmonthly.co.uk November | December 2026 - Issue 363 By Jonathan Pert The Xerox Proficio Jet CS1100 offers new printheads and ink formulations with 1200dpi resolution and two-bit variable-drop imaging KIT & CONSUMABLES | NEWS Micropress invests in brand new Horizon iCE folder Micropress Printers has continued its equipment investments with the installation of a Horizon AFV-566FKT iCE folder from kit supplier, Intelligent Finishing Systems (IFS). The Horizon technology was chosen to enhance Micropress’ leaflet production capabilities, with the AFV-566FKT iCE able to enable faster changeovers thanks to a library of stored folds on its system. Ease of use features of the Horizon folder include an Auto Interval function that adjusts to the optimum production speed automatically, retainable knife fold stoppers to minimise stoppages, and automated adjustment of the hold-down roller on the knife fold section designed for smoother operation. The Horizon purchase follows Micropress’ investment in HEIDELBERG’s TH82-P Stahlfolder and StackStar C finishing and automation systems, which were added to further strengthen the company’s postpress capabilities. Horizon’s cloud-based iCE LiNK management system provides access to a dashboard that can report real-time production analysis, provide remote update capabilities, and notify about scheduled maintenance. AccurioLabel 400 press sold at at The Print Show Gloucestershire-based commercial printer, Cotswold Labels, has signed for a new Konica Minolta AccurioLabel 400 digital label press at The Print Show 2026 as part of significant investment in the company’s short‑ to medium-run and fast‑turnaround label production. Established in 2010 following the acquisition of Malmesbury Labels, Cotswold Labels supplies a range of specialist label products to customers in a number of sectors. The AccurioLabel 400 has been developed to bring advanced productivity, automation, and colour consistency to support label operations. As demand for shorter runs, faster delivery times, and premium print quality continues to rise, the business identified the press as the ideal next step in its digital transformation, having previously been impressed by the results of a AccurioLabel 230 and an AccurioLabel 190 press. The purchase was confirmed on the show floor of The Print Show 2026 [Pictured] James Cross, joint managing director at Micropress, with the Horizon AFV-566FKT iCE folder By Jonathan Pert By Jonathan Pert
email: editor@printmonthly.co.uk November | December 2026 - Issue 363 16 KIT & CONSUMABLES | NEWS Route 1 Print invests in two HEIDELBERG presses Route 1 Print, has invested in two HEIDELBERG Speedmaster XL106-8Ps complete with Plate to Unit, LED UV, and automated Push to Stop technology. The installation forms part of a wider £12m investment programme focusing on equipment modernisation and production capacity expansion. The investment has been undertaken by Route 1 and its parent organisation, Bluetree Group, at their 300,000sq ft production site in Rotherham. The investment is intended to support growing demand from customers and strengthen Route 1’s production capabilities, focusing on reducing manual handling and simplifying operations. HEIDELBERG Plate to Unit is a fully automated logistics system that physically transfers offset printing plates from the imaging department directly into the press’ printing units without any human intervention. The investment has reportedly been well received by the Route 1 production team, with staff highlighting that the new automated equipment makes operation easier, safer, and more intuitive. It has been calculated that the new presses are already running up to 40% faster than the previous fleet, driven by more efficient makeready times and integration with HEIDELBERG’s Prinect workflow system. Jack Parks, head of Route 1 Print, says: “This investment is ultimately about helping our reseller partners serve their own customers even better. Greater capacity and efficiency will help us keep pricing competitive, enabling our partners to protect healthy margins.” Baker Labels installs UK’s first Durst Tau G3 Peak LED Baker Labels has installed the UK’s first Durst Tau G3 Peak LED at its Brentwood headquarters with the aim of significantly increasing digital inkjet capacity as the company continues to invest in the growth of its label business. The new 510mm-wide press was delivered in late August, with installation completed by Durst engineers within three days. Trials, profiling, and operator training followed, before the first live customer work moved onto the machine. The G3 Peak joins Baker Labels’ existing Durst Tau RSC 340 LED which was installed in October 2024, reportedly giving the company well over double its previous production capacity on the Durst platform. As well as representing a commitment to the growth of its core label operation, Bakers chose the machine to maintain and further improve its quality and turnaround times. The Durst G3 Peak will work alongside Baker Labels’ existing Durst Tau RSC 340 The Speedmaster XL106-8Ps were purchased as part of a £12m investment programme By Jonathan Pert Fujifilm announce global partnership Fujifilm has announced a global strategic alliance with ePac Flexible Packaging, an international provider of digitally driven flexible packaging solutions, to utilise Fujifilm’s Jet Press FP790 high-volume digital press across its global network. The partnership aims to enable ePac to increase its global throughput while preserving its short-run and on-demand capabilities. The deployment begins in North America with a Fujifilm Jet Press FP790 installation at ePac’s new facility in Phoenix, Arizona. Wider fleet expansion is then planned across ePac’s wider global network in future phases. Kodak launches PROSPER Plus 5 American print press manufacturer, Kodak, has launched the KODAK PROSPER Plus 5 imprinting system, expanding its existing PROSPER Plus portfolio with a 152m/min solution that adds KODAK Stream inkjet technology to existing presses and finishing lines. Designed for both printers and converters, the PROSPER Plus 5 has been developed to enable variable data printing, coding, serialisation, personalisation, and versioning on existing analogue presses and finishing lines without replacing current equipment. With the device, Kodak aims to give printers the flexibility to expand into higher-margin applications, respond faster to changing customer demands, and generate new revenue from assets they already own. Food wholesaler boosts output with IGS purchase Sunderland-based premier food wholesaler, Nico Rossi, has installed an IGS Cobalt SP800 single pass printer in order to boost its operational efficiency and increase capacity. As demand for fast, customised food packaging continues to grow across the regional hospitality sector, Nico Rossi set out to find a highspeed printing solution capable of keeping pace with its rapid distribution network. Following a live demonstration of the Cobalt SP800, Nico Rossi determined that the printer delivered the single-pass speed, output quality, and substrate versatility required for high-volume wholesale packaging. By Jonathan Pert By Jonathan Pert By Jonathan Pert The solution offers 600 x 900dpi resolution, flexible drop size options, and enhanced reliability [L to R] Jimmy Shadforth, production manager at Nico Rossi; Peter Flynn, MD at IGS; and Roger Andrews, MD at Nico Rossi The Jet Press FP790 has been specifically developed for high-volume flexible packaging printmonthly PrintMonthlyMagazine printmonthly_signlink printmonthly
17 www.printmonthly.co.uk November | December 2026 - Issue 363 Print.com launches first print platform within ChatGPT European print platform, Print.com, has launched its own plugin in ChatGPT, which reportedly makes it the first print platform where an AI assistant offers suggestions that are ready to order. The plugin is available free of charge to all Print.com customers, working on both the free and paid versions of ChatGPT. Users can use the plugin to directly ask about Print. com orders, with the AI assistant laying out order options and useful information based on the user’s own Print.com account. Available information includes prices and delivery times, which paper types and production methods meet the customer’s deadline, what the rush surcharge is for each day delivery is moved forward, and which configuration provides the best value for money. The plugin then provides a shareable link that lets users place their order directly in the Print.com web app. With the ChatGPT plugin, Print. com customers can browse and search the full Print.com catalogue in both the desktop and mobile app, searching by themes including weatherproof products for an outdoor festival, or recycled materials for a sustainable event. Daan de Jong, AI lead at Print.com, says: “The strength of our platform is that there are practically endless configurations possible. That’s immediately the challenge too: how do you land on exactly the right proposal for your customer? “Over the past months, we’ve made billions of possible specifications readable for AI. This is not just for ChatGPT, but as MCP: the open standard that lets any AI assistant connect to our platform. This plugin is only the beginning.” According to Print.com, AI is opening up a new phase for the business. A comparable plugin for Claude is currently under review, with feedback from the customers of the ChatGPT plugin set to play an active part in shaping the technology further. Lucas Baarspul, chief of strategy and co-founder of Print.com, adds: "A growing share of all print questions will start with an AI assistant. We want that question to land on a real specification, not a guess. With our own production sites and more than 200 print partners, we know what can be produced where, tomorrow. Our customers now have access to that same knowledge, with nothing more than a simple prompt.” By Jonathan Pert SOFTWARE | NEWS Solopress launches new Forge trade print platform UK-based online commercial printer, Solopress, has launched Forge, a new trade print platform for verified printers, resellers, brokers, and print managers. First unveiled at The Print Show 2026, Forge has been developed to address challenges in trade print including how to quote more work, protect margins, and access supplier capacity without relying on public ecommerce product pages or exposing trade pricing. Available only to approved trade customers, Forge gives members access to exclusive pricing that is not visible publicly. Users can apply their own margin, generate branded quotations, and order through Solopress production, using the company’s scale and capacity as an extension of their own business. Solopress has reported a strong response from trade customers at The Print Show, especially those interested in faster quoting, exclusive trade pricing, and a more direct route into Solopress production. Simon Cooper, chief executive officer at Solopress, says: “Online print has been shaped for more than a quarter of a century by product pages, search engines, and ecommerce journeys built for general buyers. That model has worked very well, but it does not always reflect the way many professional print buyers need to source, quote, and order work. “Forge gives verified trade customers a different route. They can start with the spec or the artwork, access exclusive trade pricing, build quotes quickly, and order through Solopress production while keeping control of their customer relationship. The response at The Print Show confirmed how strongly that need is felt across the trade.” Forge hosts a range of customisable promotional products beyond those offered publicly on the Solopress website, as well as offering built-in artwork tools that can help users identify potential file issues before ordering. The platform can support both spec-first and artwork-first ordering, with trade customers able to build jobs from practical print requirements such as size, stock, finish, and quantity. Forge can also automatically identify the product and specification from the artwork file. Orders placed through Forge are produced by Solopress, with white label fulfilment available so that trade customers can supply their clients without Solopress branding appearing in the delivery. Graham Hunstone, head of partnerships at Solopress, adds: “One of the most powerful things about Forge is that it lets printers and resellers keep their customer, keep their brand, and decide their own selling price and margin, while having Solopress production behind them. “For approved trade customers, there is no licence fee, no monthly subscription, and no setup charge. Forge gives them a way to use our production capability almost like their own production hub, whether they need to quote faster, take on work beyond their own kit, or support customers with a broader print offer.” By Jonathan Pert [L to R] Graham Hunstone, head of partnerships, and Simon Cooper, CEO at Solopress Print.com is already exploring plugins for other AI assistants including Claude
CONNECT& PRINT SMARTER For years, print professionals across Europe have relied on Print.com not only for production, but also for the technology that helps them work more efficiently, win more business and streamline their operations. Now, we’re bringing that growing toolbox of smart solutions to the UK, with innovative tools designed to help you serve customers better and unlock new business opportunities, with even more to come! Scan to explore the toolbox andfind the right tool for your business. print.com/en/print-monthly Now available: Chat-GPT plug-in
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