WINDOW GRAPHICS | DAVID OSGAR The location is not only a well-known shopping area but also the venue in which Channel 4’s First Dates is filmed. Many units at the centre required branding when they were being refurbished which meant Nettl had to cover construction but also enhance the space and draw interest from passers-by. “The easy to fit, bubble-free technology made installation a breeze and with the classic matte finish, it gave a high-end look,” says Gregory, adding: “Additionally, the Drytac Polar film performed brilliantly in the freezing temperatures we were experiencing during application.” The work Nettl undertook meant it was entrusted with more signage and wayfinding work with the shopping centre in the future, demonstrating the importance of wowing customers with effective and durable window graphics. Further Releases and Applications When it comes to recent material releases for window graphics, a big emphasis has been put on PVC-free alternatives. A supplier of signage media, Dorotape, has recently released Glass Apeel to cater to those looking for PVC-free products. The product has been designed as an alternative to traditional static cling vinyl, which Dorotape says can degrade and deteriorate in different conditions. Glass Apeel is also made without volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and can be stored and reused multiple times, according to the company. The product features a non-sticky underside with a unique microporous layer that expands the film’s surface area, creating a “grip-like feel” without adhesive. Dorotape says that when applied to smooth surfaces such as glass or metal, the film aligns with the surface, which keeps it in place. The product has been described as easy to remove as it can be peeled from one corner, at which point the alignment breaks, releasing the grip to the surface and leaving no residue behind. Speaking about its release, Michael Ingram, managing director of Dorotape, says: “We have been looking to expand our range of environmentally friendly digital print window films for the last six months and Glass Apeel is the perfect choice for anyone wanting to print promotional advertising on to glass.” The product is available in four different versions including both a frosted and transparent option which can be front, or mirror printed. Glass Apeel White blocks out a reported 99% of light for use on windows and smooth metal surfaces. Finally, the Solar option is a transparent film designed to help maintain an even indoor temperature. Recent events such as FESPA Global Print Expo and WrapFest have highlighted a number of products that have been released in the graphic and wrap space from brands like 3M and Avery Dennison. Another brand in this space is Contra Vision, which recently highlighted the use of its printable window film on the interior of a special train made to celebrate 200 years of the modern railway. The celebration dubbed Railway 200 saw Network Rail commission a five-carriage train ‘moving-exhibition’ which will tour the UK showcasing the history of the railway. Graphic supplier for fleet, railway, and architectural products, Aura Brand Solutions, provided all the wrapping for the project including the windows of the train, which had to be colour matched to the frames and doors in order for the design to blend in seamlessly. The project included a number of interior window wraps, which Aura tested extensively to make sure that the prints would retain their vibrancy while still allowing plenty of natural light in. Aura chose 3M films for much of the project, but utilised Contra Vision printable window film for the interior window wraps. According to its manufacturer, the film boasts the ability to achieve vibrant prints and strong adhesive qualities, alongside quick removal abilities with minimal tearing. As evident by the projects mentioned here, along with the materials and products recently released, there is far more that can be achieved in the world of window graphics. Working with your clients and expanding your range of materials will not only lead to more work, but will also lead to more creative projects that attract more customers. We have been looking to expand our range of environmentally friendly digital print window films for the last six months and Glass Apeel is the perfect choice for anyone wanting to print promotional advertising on to glass Window graphics were used on a special five-carriage train that was commissioned to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the railway 200th ▲Aura Brand Solutions used Contra Vision window film for windows on a special anniversary train made with Network Rail 62 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 260 - August / September 2025
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