94 www.printmonthly.co.uk Issue 362 - September | October 2026 operators peace of mind.” With this, Edwards highlights how the industry is moving towards greater simplicity and automation. He explains how many print businesses are operating with smaller teams, which in turn makes it important for printers to be straightforward to use. “Rather than requiring constant supervision, modern printers should keep production running with minimal operator intervention,” Edwards says, adding: “Mimaki has developed multiple intelligent Core Technologies to achieve this, including the Nozzle Check Unit (NCU), which automatically detects blocked nozzles, and the Nozzle Recovery System (NRS), which remaps output using functioning nozzles to maintain print quality without stopping production. “Combined with automatic maintenance routines and the Mimaki Advanced Pass System (MAPS), which reduces visible banding, these technologies maximise uptime and help operators spend less time troubleshooting.” Going into more detail on Mimaki’s approach to new innovations, Edwards sets out how one area where the manufacturer differentiates is by solving practical challenges for PSPs. He offers up future-proof ink technology as an example, with GBL-free solvent inks and UV inks formulated without SVHCs or CMR substances, helping users prepare for evolving environmental regulations. Mimaki also recently introduced BS4 solvent ink to address a demand for lower operating costs. Rather than risking machine performance or warranty by switching to non-original inks, Edwards says Mimaki BS4 offers a genuine lower-cost alternative that The latest FESPA Print Census found automation, AI, and sustainability are now the three biggest strategic priorities for speciality print businesses worldwide Factoid at Hybrid Services, the exclusive distributor for Mimaki in the UK and Ireland. According to Edwards, today’s customers are looking beyond headline print speeds and focusing on the total cost of ownership. This means low running costs, efficient ink consumption, and reduced power requirements all play a significant role in purchasing decisions, particularly for businesses looking to maximise profitability. “Printers that run from a standard electrical supply also help avoid unnecessary installation costs,” Edwards says, continuing: “Reliability is equally important, with businesses wanting equipment that will deliver consistent performance for many years. Finally, a comprehensive warranty that provides added confidence, ensuring their investment is protected also gives Rather than requiring constant supervision, modern printers should keep production running with minimal operator intervention ▲Epsonwill showcase its wide-format print technology at The Sign Show this autumn WIDE-FORMAT PRINTERS PT. 1 | ROB FLETCHER
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