Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026 www.signlink.co.uk Point-of-Sale Displays ▲ Venture Banners, Ipl (Leeds), and Very Displays comment on trends in POS Page 48 2026 Predictions We speak to professionals in the industry about what they foresee in 2026 Page 35 Roland DIMENSE DA-640 Michael Walker dives into Roland’s latest dimensional surface printer Page 22 Signbox celebrates 40 years Following its acquisition by Stewart Signs we speak to Signbox about its history Page 32 PRINTING United Expo 2025 SignLink gives an overview of the print and signage exhibition in Orlando Page 21 New SICCS card scheme We speak to Linda Edwards from the BSGA about its SICCS card scheme Page 07 Point-of-Sale Displays 48 Page
CONTENTS Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026 ISSN 2976 - 9213 NEWS Industry 06 Business 07 Kit and Consumables 12 Applications 13 People 19 Events 20 Updates from events across Europe and America SPECIALS Under the Hood: Roland DimeNse DA-640 22 Industry Tips: Colin Sinclair McDermott 26 Fresh Perspectives: nathan mclauchlan - welsh 29 Company Spotlight: Signbox 32 2026 predictions 35 David Osgar hears from professionals in print and signage ahead of the new year FEATURES wide-Format print kit Part 2 39 colour management 44 Point-of-sale Displays 48 flatbed vinyl cutters 52 Rob Fletcher takes a look at some of the latest flatbed vinyl cutters on the market IN THIS ISSUE 29 22 07 48 21 32 3 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026 39 16
ISSUE 262December 2025 | January 2026 Publishing director Page Tuck Production Ben Mallon Contributors Rob Fletcher, Michael Walker, Colin Sinclair McDermott, Nathan Mclauchlan - Welsh Contact Editorial: 0117 980 5040 Sales: 0117 960 3255 Production: 0117 980 5041 Accounts: 0117 980 5042 Find us online www.signlink.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 SignLink magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or editorial team and Link Publishing 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. Link Publishing Ltd. retains the right to publish and re-publish any images or information sent to the publication. Link Publishing Ltd, Unit G, Link House, Britton Gardens, Kingswood, Bristol BS15 1TF Editor David Osgar david@linkpublishing.co.uk Accounts Jan Thomas jan@linkpublishing.co.uk Features writer Rob Fletcher Rob@linkpublishing.co.uk Production manager Ben Mallon ben@linkpublishing.co.uk Accounts Kathryn Quinn k.quinn@linkpublishing.co.uk SignLink SignLinkMagazine printmonthly_signlink Printed on Sappi Magno Satin from EBB Paper CBP00015512002182040 MEET THE TEAM VIDEO COVERAGE Scan the QR code to watch our video coverage over on our SignLink YouTube channel Commissioning editor Jonathan Pert jonathan@linkpublishing.co.uk 4 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026 It’s that time of year again when we ring in the new year and combat the cold, dark nights with plenty of feasts and drinks over the festive period. It therefore feels fitting that this edition of SignLink is filled to the brim with news and features to help you see out 2025 and prepare for the year ahead. On pages 35 to 37 we hear from a variety of professionals in wide-format print and signage to get their thoughts on the year gone by, and what they foresee coming in 2026. The article is an apt reflection of the state of the industry, as many people are seeing the value of new innovations and solutions coming through. However, many of those we spoke to also highlighted the challenges faced by businesses regarding decreasing marketing budgets, higher customer expectations, and the uncertainty around things like AI. But just like the classic Charles Dickens novel, A Christmas Carol, we have to remember the present as well as the past and future. In this edition’s Industry Tips (pages 26 to 27), Colin Sinclair McDermott talks about the importance of embracing December as a month to generate leads, get ahead on admin, and plan for 2026, rather than considering the month a write-off. On pages 29 to 30, Nathan Mclauchlan – Welsh speaks about another big theme of the past year – young people in the industry. While the last few years have seen many people highlight and worry about the aging workforce, Mclauchlan – Welsh rightly points to some of the positive success we have seen through the likes of FESPA UK's Next Gen initiative and The Printing Charity’s Rising Star Awards. Along with a deep dive into the Roland DIMENSE DA-640 and features about wide-format presses, colour management, and point-of-sale displays, this SignLink has plenty to dig into before you unwrap your presents and tuck into your holiday meal. Have a Merry Christmas and I wish you a happy New Year from the whole team at SignLink! EDITOR S NOTE [L to R] David and Jonathan, with Nate Duckworth, founder of Artworker, following an exclusive podcast recording. Keep a look out on Print Monthly and SignLink in the new year! Get featured in our next edition by emailing editor@signlink.co.uk SPOTTED AT PRINTING UNITED EXPO 2025! Sales manager Tim Hall tim@linkpublishing.co.uk Watch Online
INDUSTRY / NEWS Outsmart supports government campaign Outsmart, the trade body for the UK out-of-home (OOH) advertising industry, has come out in support of the UK government's ‘Discover! Creative Careers’ campaign. The campaign, launched by the UK’s Department for Culture, Media, and Sport, aims to increase awareness, consideration, and uptake of creative careers among young people aged 13 to 17 years old. The initiative prioritises six regions identified in the government’s recent Industrial Strategy: Greater Manchester, Liverpool City Region, North East of England, West of England, West Midlands, and West Yorkshire. Discover! kicked off with a month of awareness-raising activities across England, Wales, and Scotland. As part of these activities, a range of Outsmart members have donated digital advertising space in key geographical areas to support the campaign including Alight Media, Bauer Media Outdoor, JCDecaux, Limited Space, Ocean Outdoor, Open Media, Outdo Media, and Smart Outdoor. Tim Lumb, director of Outsmart Media, says: “Outsmart and the OOH industry are proud to support this important campaign which aims to inspire young people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds into a career in the creative industries. “By promoting the campaign in public spaces across the North, the message should be more accessible to all communities.” Many OOH companies have donated advertising space to promote Discover! Creative Careers By Jonathan Pert Many print, packaging, and sign companies are at risk of significant impact from upcoming changes to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), according to a specialist from compliance and brand protection software specialist, iov42. The EUDR law requires companies to ensure that natural commodities including paper, soy, and rubber sold in or exported from the EU market are deforestation-free and produced in accordance with relevant local laws. The rules become mandatory for large and medium-sized operators and traders on December 30th, 2025 (although a proposed six-month grace period for enforcement is anticipated), with enforcement for SMEs coming on June 30th, 2026. Although most paper in Europe comes from sustainably managed forests where the cycle of planting, growing, and logging is carefully controlled, print companies may still face challenges in traceability, compliance management, materials from international markets, and the risk of potential penalties. Trevor Willis, senior sales manager (EUDR) at iov42, says: “EUDR is often discussed in the context of timber and other forest-risk commodities such as cocoa, coffee, palm oil, and rubber – but it is also set to have a significant impact on the paper, packaging, and print sectors. “The European Commission has proposed a one-year delay to parts of EUDR, but this has not yet been formally confirmed. There is also discussion of alternative enforcement routes that would allow implementation on time without relying on the EU’s troubled information system, TRACES NT. For businesses, this leaves a familiar picture: timelines may shift, but expectations on traceability and deforestation-free supply chains are only moving in one direction.” Designed by technology company, iov42, Interu is an IT Solution designed to allow organisations operating in the European marketplace to satisfy the legal reporting requirements of the EUDR. Iov42 has also released a series of ‘myth bustPrinters and sign-makers at “high risk” from EUDR laws ing’ facts which aim to make clear what the EUDR laws mean for UK print. Among the myths that the company wishes to counter is the idea that EUDR laws do not apply to UK-based printers. As Willis says: “If printed products, packaging, or paper-based materials are exported to the EU – directly or indirectly – printers can expect to be asked for evidence on sourcing, traceability, and risk management, even if they are not the entity filing formal due diligence statements.” By Jonathan Pert Scan the QR code to read the full story on our sister publication – Print Monthly 6 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026
7 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026 INDUSTRY / NEWS The British Sign and Graphics Association (BSGA), in partnership with the National Association of Shopfitters (NAS), has officially launched the SICCS Commercial Signage Installer – Provisional Card. The SICCS is the Shopfitting and Interior Contracting Competence Scheme (SICCS) and is managed by NAS, a member of the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Alliance Partnership, making NAS the only licensed CSCS partner authorised to issue the new card. The digital-only SICCS card provides operatives in the signage and shopfitting sectors with safe, compliant site access while they work towards a full qualification, aiming to support professional development and building confidence on site. In addition, the card gives site managers a structured way to assess skills and competence against a recognised, fit for purpose framework, helping to ensure that operatives are both technically capable and professionally recognised. Speking of its launch, Linda Edwards, managing director of the BSGA, says: “This digital-only credential provides installers within the signage and shopfitting sectors safe, compliant site access whilst individuals work towards a full qualification. More than just a site access tool, it anchors an individual’s professional growth, supports stakeholder confidence on site, and provides site management with a clear, structured pathway to assess skills and competence against a recognised, fit-for-purpose framework.” Following the announcement, Edwards spoke exclusively to SignLink, in order to outline the benefits and goals of the new provisional card: Why does this matter for the signage industry? Historically, signage installers could gain a CSCS card through NVQ Level 2 units in sign-making, with separate categories for illuminated and non-illuminated sign installers. Whilst many operatives have benefited from this route, completing these qualifications has become increasingly challenging due to practical and resource constraints. The new provisional SICCS card addresses this, offering an accessible, structured pathway to verified competence and continued professional development, ensuring operatives maintain uninterrupted site access and formal recognition of their skills. Can you tell us why the BSGA partnered with NAS rather than issuing a CSCS-branded card independently? The answer lies in practicality and industry alignment. NAS, as a licensed partner within the CSCS Alliance Partnership, provides the established governance, frameworks, and validation systems that ensure the card is fully compliant, accepted on site, and recognised nationally. The SICCS scheme is managed exclusively by NAS. All SICCS cards are digital, carry the CSCS logo, and are validated on site via the Smart Checker system, giving operatives, site management, and industry stakeholders confidence in individuals’ verified competence and safety standards. Additionally it establishes the foundation for the full SICCS / CSCS Experience Commercial Signage Installer (blue card), due for development over the next 18 months. What do you have to do to receive a card? To secure a provisional card, applicants must complete the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment (HS&E) Operative level test within the last three years. They must also hold a recognised health and safety qualification (RQF Level 1 or SCQF Level 4 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment, or SCQF Level 5 REHIS Elementary Health and Safety Certificate). Non BSGA or NAS members are required to complete a professional discussion with the BSGA within three months of card issue. The card is valid for 18 months (non-renewable), with a card fee of £30 excluding VAT. Professional discussion can potentially reduce that to £25 excluding VAT as a one-off. BSGA discusses new SICCS card scheme By Jonathan Pert [Pictured] Linda Edwards, managing director of BSGA, spoke to SignLink about the new scheme The new SICCS card, which is valid for 18 months, requires you to hold a recognised health and safety qualification SignLink SignLinkMagazine printmonthly_signlink
FASTSIGNS UK has confirmed it has expanded into Bristol with the opening of its first centre in the city. FASTSIGNS Bristol has joined a growing network of signage specialists across the country which are part of the FASTSIGNS franchise, with centres stretching from York to Portsmouth. The new business, located in Dragon Court, East Bristol, will be run by 24-year-old director Alex Horseman and his partner, Caitlin Mosler, alongside a production expert and lead designer. A former student of University of Bristol and graduate in Classical and Ancient Studies, Horseman brings an interest in business, art, and history, as well as a reported talent for oil and watercolour painting. Horseman says: “Bristol has so much to offer a new business; a wealth of talent from nearby universities, a strong focus on innovation, and transport links for the South West. What more could you want as a business owner? There’s really no surprise that Bristol was ranked the second-best UK city to start a business in this year.” As well as serving businesses within the Bristol area, Horseman and his team will be operating across Bath, Cardiff, and the South West. Speaking about the wider FASTSIGNS franchise, John Davies, managing director at FASTSIGNS UK, adds: “It’s been a landmark year at FASTSIGNS UK so far. Earlier this year, we marked our 30th anniversary as a brand – a milestone also reached by a number of our other centres across the country, including Leeds and Crawley. “While it’s been fantastic to celebrate those who’ve been with us since the very start, it’s equally as exciting to welcome new talent into the network – with Alex, Caitlin, and their team in Bristol being a huge part of that growth.” FASTSIGNS Sheffield recently marked 30 years of business with an anniversary celebration event at its headquarters, with customers past and present invited. The event brought together customers, colleagues, suppliers, and partners from across the region, with attendees reminiscing on three decades of collaboration. FASTSIGNS UK expands with Bristol franchise [L to R] Alex Horseman and Caitlin Mosler, new owners of FASTISGNS Bristol SOS appointed as new Liyu reseller Service Offset Supplies (SOS) has announced its appointment as a ‘premier’ UK reseller for the Liyu range of wide-format printing machines. SOS will offer the full line-up of Liyu high-speed industrial wide-format solutions, including the Platinum KCXL, KCXL+, and KC flatbeds, as well as the Platinum Q3XL and EQ3 hybrid models, and QR3, QR5, and PCT roll-to-roll devices. As an official UK distributor for Liyu, SOS will also provide full sales, installation, and aftersales support, backed by Liyu England’s engineering and service team. Speaking of the new partnership, Omran Anwar, joint managing director at SOS, says: “We already have a high profile as a supplier of Roland print and cut machines and Epson proofers, and we feel the addition of the bigger Liyu machinery completes our wide-format offering and offers customers a truly compelling choice.” By Jonathan Pert Widd announces rebrand Widd, formerly known as Widd Signs, has announced the launch of a new brand and website, marking the next phase in the evolution of one of the UK’s oldest signage companies. The rebrand aims to reflect what the company labels as a “transformation from a heritage signage manufacturer into a diversified business offering consultancy, architectural vinyl, bespoke lightbox manufacturing, and innovative sustainability-driven products.” To mark the launch of the rebrand, Widd hosted a factory tour attended by Ed Whiting OBE, chief executive officer of Leeds City Council. Recently Widd featured in the 2025 Yorkshire Growth Index, which recognised it as one of the top 50 highest growing businesses in Yorkshire and the Humber. The rebrand follows the formation of an in-house marketing and growth team, alongside close collaboration with creative agencies ThinkOTB and Updesigners, who supported Widd in forming its brand identity and building a new website. BUSINESS / NEWS 8 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026 Widd was first founded in 1888, making it one of the UK’s oldest signage companies
BUSINESS / NEWS 9 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026 Printing and signage specialist, The Digiprint Group, has announced the official launch of Trade Signs UK, a new dedicated trade signage division designed for independent print companies, agencies, and trade customers. Trade Signs UK will specialise in providing what it dubs as eco-friendly and high-quality signage production for trade clients, operating from a new ‘eco facility’ in Chippenham. Trade Signs UK will combine the decades of expertise from its parent company with new HP Latex ink print technology and in-line finishing capabilities, aiming to deliver high-quality, service, and reliability at competitive trade prices. The HP Latex equipment at its disposal, which was purchased through supplier Perfect Colours, includes the HP R1000 hybrid and HP 800w presses. Orders were also placed for the all-new HP R530 Hybrid and updated HP 830w at The Sign Show 2025. HP, which had not attended the exhibition for nine years beforehand, joined as part of the inaugural edition of The Sign Show, which was co-located with The Print Show at the NEC in Birmingham. Trade Signs UK’s equipment arsenal also includes a comprehensive range of machines from Vivid Laminating Solutions for in-line finishing, trimming, and lamination. Speaking about the launch of Trade Signs UK, Ben Gregory, group director of the Digiprint Group, says: "We've been serving the print and signage industry since 1987, and we've seen firsthand how challenging it can be for smaller print companies to access reliable trade partners. "Trade Signs UK fills that gap by offering the quality and speed that print buyers demand, backed by our proven track record and latest technology investment. This launch represents everything we've been building toward – it's our primary business goal for 2025 and I couldn't be more excited about what we're bringing to the trade market.” Gregory highlights how the company has been “quietly producing a range of signs for several large UK national print franchise groups for years.” With Trade Signs UK, the aim is to make these services available to the wider trade, including independent printers and design agencies. Gregory adds: "We're not just another trade supplier – we're the partner that print companies can stake their reputation on. We are small enough to care, and large enough to cope. Having our own retail high street print and sign shops, through our brand, we know what is required from a trade signs supplier." The company has merged services with Digiprint Group’s Envirosigns brand to provide eco-friendly options including the Kavalan range of PVC-free banners for indoor and outdoor applications, and eco-friendly material options including Xanita, Katz, and other sustainable alternatives. Digiprint Group launches new trade signage division Trade Signs UK will focus on trade customers including independent print companies By Jonathan Pert Exhibition and interior display specialist, Quattro Display, has invested more than £200k into its Redditch facilities, as part of aims to break £2m in turnover. The company, which operates from a 23,000sq ft site on South Moons Moat, recently turned to Elevate Manufacturing Programme Worcester to help revamp its digital strategy and boost its export business. The company worked with a dedicated growth manager as part of the Elevate scheme to identify several hurdles to expansion. With a tailored action plan in place, the firm has since boosted its workforce by 10% and invested more than £200k into several new production saws and 115 solar panels on its roof. The company has reportedly already gained a number of new clients since the changes, both in the UK and several international customers across Denmark, France, and Italy. Funded by Worcestershire County Council and delivered by Oxford Innovation Advice, Elevate offers tailored support to manufacturing SMEs aiming to boost productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness. Quattro Display completes £200k investment The company provides exhibition stands and graphics for brands across the UK and Europe By Jonathan Pert Data Direct Thames Valley has been appointed as an official UK distributor for Mutoh’s portfolio of wide-format printers. The strategic appointment aims to open up new revenue streams and margin opportunities for Data Direct’s network, giving them direct access to Mutoh’s range of print solutions while supporting them with Data Direct’s service, logistics, and dealer-only support programmes. Mutoh’s portfolio covers signage, graphics, textiles, décor, and professional imaging, with recent machine releases including the 64” XpertJet1682UR UV LED roll-toroll printer. Founded in 1993 and based in Finchampstead, Wokingham, Data Direct supplies dealers across the UK with a range of dealer-only service programmes. Alongside its recent expansion into the wide-format sector, the company provides solutions including multifunction printers (MFPs) and photocopiers. Data Direct appointed as Mutoh distributor By Jonathan Pert [L to R] Lawrence Hebron; Mutoh, and Peter Cowan, COO at Data Direct Thames Valley SignLink SignLinkMagazine printmonthly_signlink
Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems (PCS) has launched the Smart Material Handler (SMH), a modular sheet handling solution for the digital cutting of sign, display, folding carton, and corrugated applications. The new solution from Kongsberg enables operators to load new materials on its cutting machines while the cutter is still processing the previous sheet. The machine does this by creating a buffer zone and allowing one operator to handle tasks that typically require two: effectively cutting labour needs by 50%. The SMH, which can be used in both landscape and portrait modes, comprises a loading table with an optional underside camera (USC) that automatically detects registration marks and adjusts positioning, and an offloading table. Together, the tools act as extensions to an existing Kongsberg cutting table, semi-automating the production workflow. The SMH is available as an add-on unit on all bed sizes for both the Kongsberg C-series and Ultimate series and can be retrofitted to existing machines. The loading table is suitable for rigid substrates but has the option to be replaced with a roll feeder, offering flexible workflows for different material handling requirements and faster changeovers. Connected to the other side of the cutting table, the offload table is positioned at a fixed 12-degree incline with integrated stoppers to securely hold finishing materials in place, facilitating smooth material unload and reducing potential costly errors. Kongsberg launches new Smart Material Handler Mimaki has announced the launch of the UJF-7151plus II e, its next-generation flatbed UV printer designed for direct-to-object (DTO) and industrial printing. The new press will be commercially available in the UK and Ireland from November 2025. The UJF-7151plus II e aims to build on its predecessor while solving three key challenges that Mimaki believes have long affected the market: namely maintaining consistent precision at high printing speeds, printing on curved or uneven surfaces, and reproducing sophisticated three-dimensional textures. In addition, a new Long Drop mode allows for direct printing on substrates with height differences of up to 10mm, with the purpose of ensuring stable results on curved, stepped, or moulded parts. By Jonathan Pert Mimaki launches DTO and industrial flatbed press The new SMH is available immediately to order online or via local distributors William Smith announced as exclusive 3M film supplier William Smith Group 1832 (William Smith) has been announced as the exclusive UK supplier of two new 3M Paint Protection Film (PPF) products. The new 3M PPF Series 100 Gloss and 150 Gloss are now available exclusively in the UK from William Smith. Both films are designed to deliver high clarity, strong protection, and feature self-healing technology that allows minor scratches to disappear over time. The products are available with Pattern Marketplace, 3M’s digital pattern software which allows sign and vehicle customisation businesses to access thousands of PPF and window film patterns, including more than 5,500 vehicles spanning over ten years. PPF films are applied to vulnerable areas of a vehicle to help guard against damage CPS brings Dlican printers to UK market China Print Supplies (CPS) has entered into a distribution agreement with Shenzhen Dlican Digital Technology, in order to supply the manufacturer's range of UV printers to the UK market. The agreement gives UK print businesses access to Dlican's portfolio of UV printing equipment including UV flatbeds, hybrids, cylindrical printers, and printers with visual positioning. Models on offer from CPS vary from compact desktop units to wide-format industrial systems, with bed sizes ranging from 1m x 1m to 4m x 2.5m. The Dlican range includes wide-format flatbed models such as the DLI-3325 and DLI4025, both of which are equipped with up to 16 Ricoh Gen 6 printheads. Premier becomes exclusive provider of SpotOn Syntac UK materials supplier, Premier, is now the exclusive provider of Drytac’s SpotOn SynTac range of PVC-free adhesive display materials in the UK & Ireland. The new SpotOn SynTac range includes an improved white matt version and an all-new clear gloss product, both suitable for window and wall applications. Both products are coated on one side with a pressure-sensitive dot-pattern polyacrylate adherent, developed so that installation on smooth surfaces is bubble-free, and the film can be removed quickly and cleanly if done within 12 months. SpotOn SynTac also contains no chlorine, plasticisers, or heavy metals and, due to its lightness in comparison to other comparable products, requires less energy to produce. SpotOn SynTac is designed to stick easily and remove cleanly By Jonathan Pert The press supports light cyan and light magenta inks alongside CMYK By Jonathan Pert KIT & CONSUMABLES / NEWS 12 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026 By Jonathan Pert The 3.2m Dlican Hybrid DLI-3300s can be configured with up to 30 printheads By Jonathan Pert
SignLink SignLinkMagazine printmonthly_signlink 13 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026 APPLICATIONS / NEWS Global Erecting Sign Services (GESS) has completed an extensive rope access project high above the busy streets of Wood Green, London. River Park House is an 11-storey office block located in Wood Green, adjacent to Alexandra House and opposite Wood Green Underground station. Built in 1973 to replace the old Wood Green library, River Park House has been home to Haringey Council since 2005. The large-scale banner advertising project involved installing over 30 bespoke bracket systems of varying types and sizes to the building, each one designed, manufactured, and fixed to its concrete structure. Completing the project required six months of planning and design by GESS involving close coordination with Haringey Council and wide-ranging traffic management strategies, as well as temporary bus suspensions. The process then required over a month of fabrication and a further three weeks of installation, all executed via rope access to avoid intrusive scaffolding and minimise disruption to the busy high street below. The installation required tonnes of custom-fabricated metalwork to be used, all of which was designed to suit the building’s unique façade. Over 50 LED lights were also mounted on specially fabricated projected brackets, positioned to shine from both the top and bottom of the banners. The highly luminous lights are designed to enhance the visibility of the signage in both day and night. Speaking to SignLink about the project, GESS says: “This achievement showcases our expertise in delivering complex urban installations, combining engineering ingenuity with safe, efficient rope access techniques. The result is not just an advertising banner, but a feat of technical skill and planning that now stands as a striking feature in the Wood Green skyline.” A Bristol theatre company has detailed the impact of a signage revamp that was undertaken at its headquarters. Kelvin Players is a non-professional community theatre company founded in 1929 which now boasts over 200 members and is reportedly one of the most successful amateur dramatics groups in the South West. Kelvin’s current home on Gloucester Road was bought in the 1980s through fundraising by the members, converting a methodist church hall into a fully working theatre alongside a workshop, rehearsal space, meeting rooms, and a bar. Since then, a range of work has been undertaken to upgrade the company’s facilities and resources, the most recent of these projects being a revamp of its exterior signage. Jacqs Graham, committee member and director of strategy at Kelvin Players, explains the thinking behind the signage revamp, saying: “As we look to celebrate our 100-year anniversary, it was time to review our branding and identity – as we do every ten years or so.” The installation, which reflects the theatre company’s recent rebrand, includes LED lettering of the company’s logo, a roadside vinyl banner in Kelvin’s brand colours, and a painted design on an exterior door which includes the company’s ‘jester hat’ logo. The signage was designed, printed, and installed by Xpress, a sign shop in Bristol situated directly opposite the theatre. Describing the collaboration, Graham says: “I spoke with Liam Agnew [owner of Xpress] about updating our signage, and he suggested the LED display, which was perfect. Liam was contactable at all times, asked relevant questions, and provided specific information to our premises team. It was a great collaborative project.” Kelvin has reported a positive response and impact following the signage installation, with some locals reportedly stating that they first became aware of the theatre once the new signage was installed. Bristol theatre revamped with new signage installation The exterior signage includes LED faux-neon lettering of the company’s logo By Jonathan Pert The installation was executed via rope access to minimise disruption GESS flies high with large-scale installation By Jonathan Pert
15 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026
APPLICATIONS / NEWS 16 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026 Out-of-home (OOH) advertising site, The Manchester Screen, has been announced as the largest combined banner and digital billboard in the UK, after coming under fresh ownership. The 306sq m digital screen, which is already claimed as the second-largest digital outdoor billboard in Europe, can now be paired with an 834sq m static banner. According to new owner, Katie Smith, this creates the UK’s largest combined banner and digital display. Previously owned by Elonex Outdoor Media, The Manchester Screen appears to now operate as its own legal entity, with Smith as its owner and Klaudia Kania listed on LinkedIn as creative director. Smith previously worked as head of agency and specialist sales for Elonex, with Kania also working there as head of creative. Speaking of The Manchester Screen, Smith says: “With over 1140sq m of continuous advertising space, it enables brands to dominate one of the North’s busiest routes through both static and dynamic formats. By extending beyond the digital display, the whole element allows campaigns to live seamlessly across physical and digital space – offering an opportunity that’s unmatched anywhere else in the UK.” The Manchester Screen wraps around the Victoria Warehouse in Salford Quays, reportedly capturing more than 21.6 million annual impressions from passing traffic. The site has hosted campaigns for brands including JD Sports, O2, PaddyPower, and Calvin Klein. Recently JD Sports launched the first campaign on the new ‘supersized’ site, promoting the annual retail conference of the sports-fashion retailer held at Victoria Warehouse. The campaign features a giant replica of JD Sports' signature yellow bag suspended from the roof, aiming to create a striking visual impact above the venue. Speaking of the JD Sports campaign, Smith says: “It’s amazing to see the first screen and billboard promotion come to life with JD’s takeover. Not only does it create huge impact for the 250 conference attendees, but it also grabs the attention of everyone passing through this key gateway between Manchester City Centre and Media City, Salford.” Manchester Screen becomes UK’s largest combined print and digital billboard The new combined vinyl and digital billboard measures at roughly 1140sq m ‘Giant’ Manchester wayfinding totems transformed with new installation By Jonathan Pert A standout feature of Manchester’s Exchange Quay business and office park has been its large-scale wayfinding totems, with the ‘giant’ arrows installed as part of a refresh project completed in 2021. Once a uniform, monochromatic orange, taken from the business park’s feature brand colours, the striking totems have now been transformed as part of an environmental branding scheme by architectural design agency, Jasper Sanders + Partners. The transformative signage and graphics project was installed by Zenith Signs, a Tadcaster-based sign-maker which offers a full service including external and internal signage, wayfinding, window manifestations, and wall graphics. According to Jasper Sanders + Partners, the new totems aim to “form a vibrant, contemporary and ever-changing experience of colour, angles, and light, mirroring the campus’s fluid interchange of people, work, and ideas.” Each steel totem features a spectrum of interconnected colours, which were selected following detailed colour studies, with different hues and tones on every face. The varied colours of the totems aim to transform them from functional wayfinding signage into attractive sculptural forms within the landscape. Lead designer on the project, Nathalie Kenning, reportedly approached her colour study in the form of a branding exercise, in order to create an identity for each totem that related to nearby tenants and their branding. The colour palettes, which were designed to work with the existing architecture, were also inspired by sculptures and the surrounding landscaping. Kenning explains: “Each totem is context-specific and relates directly to the building it announces, reflecting its internal character while also maintaining a collective identity with the other totems across the campus. Like the individuals who work within Exchange Quay, each one is distinct yet connected, reinforcing the idea of collaboration within a greater whole.” Beyond the wayfinding remit, the redesign of the external architecture also extended to the external podium level, where a series of four former smoking shelters have been repurposed as outdoor meeting and social spaces. By Jonathan Pert Each totem features a spectrum of colours, with different hues and tones on every face
PEOPLE / NEWS SignLink SignLinkMagazine printmonthly_signlink Wide-format print specialist, RMC Digital, has announced the promotion of Alex Wood from commercial director to co-managing director. Wood has worked with RMC since its infancy, starting in sales and progressing through the ranks to become a company director in 2020. Wood will work alongside Nicole Spencer, who has also been managing director of the company since 2020. Speaking of Wood’s appointment, Spencer says: “I’ve worked together with Alex throughout my career at RMC and feel like we’ve both been the driving force behind its success. “We’ve been through the highs and lows together and he has always been there to support me, so it made complete sense to promote him to co-managing director. We looked at a different structure with him as managing director and me in a different role but felt like we work best together so will share the position.” In their joint management roles, Wood will concentrate on the dayto-day running of the company, with Spencer focusing on strategy. Together they will aim to push for company growth into new sectors and technologies while remaining a trade-only wide-format printer. Speaking of his appointment, Wood says: “RMC is in my DNA – I’ve been here since the beginning and wouldn't have it any other way. Working alongside Nicole has been the driving force of our success for years, and I have tremendous respect for her strategic vision.” RMC Digital appoints second managing director UK graphics and signage specialist, Imageco, has announced a string of recent appointments and promotions. The appointments include David Griffin to the Design & Build team, Abbie Hignett as the new head of projects, and Isabel Shanahan as a project coordinator. An exhibition builder by trade, Griffin previously worked for Imageco on a freelance basis, with him being hired on a number of projects within the last year. Hignett joined Imageco just over a year ago, and according to the company has since “transformed how we plan, deliver, and communicate projects.” In her new role, Hignett will be tasked with leading the Projects team and implementing new ways of operating in response to growing workloads. Shanahan meanwhile has transitioned from Imageco’s Studio team into the Projects team as a project coordinator. Under Hignett’s guidance, Shanahan will be assigned to supporting projects from start to finish and helping to ensure that each job runs smoothly. Imageco announces three key appointments KGK Genix has announced that Wiktoria Markiewicz has joined the team as its new junior project manager, following the completion of a student initiative. The print and design agency developed the student initiative in partnership with Hertford Regional College (HRC), in order to encourage young people into the print and signage industries, with many winners of the scheme being offered permanent roles at the company. Markiewicz earned her placement in the initiative after emerging as the winner of KGK Genix’s annually run Student Retail Design & Careers competition, in which she developed a concept based on a brief from client, Dune London. Over five weeks Markiewicz then undertook a work placement at KGK Genix, gaining experience across design development, production, and project delivery. Following completion of the placement, KGK Genix confirmed that she has now stepped into a full-time role within the company. KGK Genix invests in young generation with new hire [L to R] Matt Walsh, operations director at KGK Genix, and Wiktoria Markiewicz, newly appointed junior project manager By Jonathan Pert By Jonathan Pert [L to R] Recently promoted Imageco team members Abbie Hignett, Isabel Shanahan, and David Griffin 19 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026 Direct-to-object (DTO) print press manufacturer, Inkcups, has appointed Sebastian Teichmann as its new service manager for Europe. Teichmann arrives to the role with over two decades of experience in the inkjet printing industry, having worked as a remote support lead in the EMEA region for direct-to-garment (DTG) press manufacturer, Kornit Digital, as well as previous roles at manufacturers EFI and Fujifilm. During his time at Kornit, Teichmann led a tier three product specialist team, managing escalations, upgrades, and beta projects in addition to analysing service metrics for process improvements. His new role will focus on overseeing technical installations and system integrations across Europe, as well as providing back up and technical escalation support to Inkcups’ European team of field service engineers. Inkcups appoints new service manager By Jonathan Pert Teichmann [pictured] previously worked for Kornit, EFI, and Fujifilm [L to R] Alex Wood and Nicole Spencer, the new joint MDs of RMC Digital By Jonathan Pert
EVENTS / NEWS 20 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026 ISE to launch new CyberSecurity Summit for 2026 Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) has announced the launch of a new CyberSecurity Summit, a new addition to its 2026 content programme. ISE 2026, which is touted as the world's largest trade show for the AV and systems integration industries will take place from February 3rd to 6th, 2026, at the Fira Barcelona – Gran Via venue in Barcelona, Spain. Scheduled for Thursday, February 5th, 2026, the CyberSecurity Summit will tackle what is seen as the escalating challenges confronting many industries as digital threats increasingly impact critical infrastructure, smart buildings, venues, and public services. The summit will be chaired by Pere Ferrer i Sastre, former director general of the Catalan Police, who has notable experience in public security, digital transformation, regulatory frameworks, and critical infrastructure management. The event will include discussions addressing a range of emerging digital threats to the AV and systems integration sectors. The announcement of the summit comes during European Cybersecurity Awareness month, a continent-wide initiative coordinated by ENISA, which now operates as the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity, alongside the European Commission. The awareness month aims to promote safer digital practices across businesses, institutions, and individuals in the wake of cybercrime surging globally and across Europe. Mike Blackman, managing director of Integrated Systems Events, says: “Cybersecurity is no longer optional – it lies at the heart of every AV innovation. “ISE’s CyberSecurity Summit brings together the brightest minds in our industry to confront today’s digital threats head-on and turn them into strategic advantages. By sharing actionable insights, proven strategies, and real-world experience, we will empower AV professionals to protect critical systems, lead with confidence, and build a safer, smarter future for the entire industry.” ISE hosted a cybersecurity panel at its 2025 event as part of its free content programme The Federation of European Screen Printers Associations (FESPA) has announced the launch of new Corrugated and Textile events for FESPA Global Print Expo 2026. The print and signage exhibition, which launches at the Fira de Barcelona for 2026, also returns once again with the co-located European Sign Expo and Personalisation Experience. The new Corrugated and Textile events will aim to offer focused exhibits and content for packaging and display manufacturers, as well as textile and garment producers. The Corrugated event, which is a joint venture with industry publisher Brunton Publications, aims to provide a dedicated platform for manufacturers of corrugated cardboard packaging and display solutions to meet suppliers of materials, machinery, workflow software, and other technologies. In addition to 1,500sq m of exhibition space, Corrugated’s conference programme will explore topics including new EU legislation, cyber security in the modern box plant, emerging opportunities offered by AI, and the role of national and international trade associations. Neil Felton, chief executive officer of FESPA, says: “We’re thrilled to launch Corrugated, our new, targeted event, alongside our flagship show, FESPA Global Print Expo, and its co-located events. "Packaging and three-dimensional display using corrugated materials have been gaining prominence at FESPA events in recent years, and this dedicated event and conference, delivered with the support of sector-specialist partners, will offer the perfect environment for converters and display producers to explore fresh opportunities for growth and diversification.” The Textile event is designed for visitors who work with printed textiles including garments, sportswear, and interior décor. The event will be designed to serve as a concentrated platform for producers of these applications to explore industry trends, see the latest innovations, and exchange knowledge and expertise. In free-to-attend conference FESPA Global Print Expo to launch Corrugated and Textile events sessions, delegates will also hear from experts on topics such as enhancing productivity and efficiency, reducing operational impact, and waste reduction. Duncan MacOwan, head of marketing and events at FESPA, adds: “With the launch of Textile, we’re creating a focused environment that directly addresses the challenges faced by textile printers, garment brands, sportswear producers and interior designers, while giving printers the textile-focused insight they need to invest and expand.” By Jonathan Pert FESPA Global Print Expo is already co-located with European Sign Expo and Personalisation Experience By Jonathan Pert
21 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026 SignLink SignLinkMagazine printmonthly_signlink PRINTING United Expo, which took place between October 22nd to 24th at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, saw a record-breaking number of attendees and exhibitors for 2025, according to its organisers. According to PRINTING United Alliance, the US print exhibition welcomed over 30,000 registered attendees from 104 countries, a significant increase from the 2024 event which saw almost 25,000 attendees. The event also featured 838 exhibitors showcasing the latest advancements in printing technology, materials, and workflow solutions across a one million sq ft space. Ford Bowers, chief executive officer of PRINTING United Alliance, says: “PRINTING United Expo continues to prove that the printing industry is vibrant, evolving, and full of opportunity. “Each year, we see stronger engagement, deeper collaboration, and an even greater spirit of innovation and scale from every corner of print.” New areas for 2025 included the PRINTING AI Pavilion, a special area featuring a dedicated ‘AI wall,’ live demos, presentations, and success stories on how AI is transforming print. Also included was the ‘Spill the Ink’ roundtable discussion area which saw a variety of “All Stars” from the industry including Colin Sinclair McDermott, The Online Print Coach, and Lucy Swanston, managing director of Nutshell Creative, who both took part in interactive and collaborative sessions. The space also included a drop-in discussion zone built for real-time conversations between peers and thought leaders across the industry. The Apparel Zone meanwhile offered hands-on training opportunities across screen printing, direct-to-film, cut-and-sew, embroidery, sublimation, and heat-applied graphics. Throughout the event a range of sessions and presentations were hosted in the expo’s Apparelist Live! theatre. Alongside these areas, live demos of PRINTING United’s iLEARNING+ online learning platform were also on the show floor, with courses spanning AI, dye-sublimation, colour management, and screen-making. In terms of product launches, the exhibition included a variety of debuts and showcases across the three days including Canon’s recently launched Colorado XL-series, which comprises of the Colorado XL7R roll-to-roll printer and Colorado XL7H hybrid printer. Elsewhere, HP announced the launch of three major new releases for wide-format print service providers (PSPs), including the release of the new HP Latex FS70 W printer, the new HP Latex Productivity Kit for FS series customers, and enhancements to the HP PrintOS Production Hub. Speaking at the show, Chris Curran, group president of media and events at PRINTING United Alliance, said: “PRINTING United Expo is more than just a trade show – it’s where the full spectrum of print comes to life under one roof. “From the debut of our new PRINTING AI Pavilion to the most robust Apparel Zone yet, along with a media day for our global content creators, Student Day for the future of our industry, and our expanded show floor education; this year’s event has embodied the innovation and community that sets the Expo apart. We can’t wait to do it again next year and welcome the global industry to Las Vegas between September 23rd and 25th, 2026.” PRINTING United Expo abuzz with record-breaking visitors PRINTING United Expo welcomed over 30,000 registered attendees from 104 countries Members of PRINTING United Alliance were able to attend its Booth across the three days EVENTS / NEWS By Jonathan Pert and David Osgar
Digital printing of wallpaper isn’t such a radical idea. Various systems have been promoted over recent years, based around roll-fed printers using media and inks suitable for domestic and hospitality applications. But the idea of being able to also print a fully variable texture onto a wallcovering is novel and has so far been the sole province of the DIMENSE range of printers originally developed by Lithuanian company, Vieka. The underlying technology involves a coating on the media that foams and expands when heated after printing, plus a jettable ‘structural’ ink that suppresses the expansion reaction at any desired location. The original Vieka machine, shown at FESPA 2017 could achieve a 1mm relief this way, which enabled plenty of textured effects to be achieved on supported media, which was – and still is – manufactured by the DIMENSE operation in Lithuania. When Roland took a controlling stake in the DIMENSE business in August 2023, it took on distribution and support of the existing machines, but with a clear intention to combine the technology with its own manufacturing expertise. This led to the announcement in June 2025 of the Roland DIMENSE DA-640, a brand-new machine that combines a familiar Roland 1.6m roll-fed printer chassis with the DIMENSE ink and media. The DA-640 made its UK public debut at The Sign Show in September 2025. The most obvious physical difference is that the printer is a lot smaller, especially in terms of its footprint. However, that is perhaps one of the less significant changes compared to what’s going on inside. Two Heads are Better Than One The new model uses two Epson printheads to offer resolutions for both CMYK and structural ink of 900 x 1200dpi, though it’s important to note that the nature of the foam expansion in the coating limits the level of fine detail that can be achieved in the ‘embossing’ effect. Head of DIMENSE Exploring the Depths of the Roland DIMENSE DA-640 Michael Walker is a trade journalist, technical writer, and editor with over 37 years’ experience in the print, prepress, photography, and digital imaging sectors, with a particular interest in the digital transformation of processes. In addition to editing Desktop Publishing Today and Digital Printer magazines, he is co-author with Neil Barstow of Getting Colour Right (Ilex Press, 2004) and Practical Colour Management for Photographers and Digital Image Makers (2009, self-published e-book) and winner of a Communicators in Business Gold Award. The DA-640 made its UK public debut at The Sign Show in September 2025 22 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 262 - December 2025 | January 2026 UNDER THE HOOD | ROLAND DIMENSE DA-640 Able to print with raised textures up to 2mm high underneath CMYK print, Roland’s revamped version of the DIMENSE printer offers a range of application possibilities beyond the obvious wallpaper. Michael Walker peels back the edges to take a peek beneath
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