Issue 259 - June / July 2025 www.signlink.co.uk FESPA Global Print Expo ▲ We review the latest edition that took place in Berlin Page 47 SwissQprint Nyala 5 Michael Walker deep dives into the Nyala 5’s latest features Page 30 Neon update The government has commented on the advertising of LED and neon products Page 6 Fresh Perspectives Isabel Shanahan gives advice on how businesses can nurture young talent Page 36 The Sign Show We detail the latest news regarding this year’s debut show Page 19 100 years in business David Osgar speaks to Brownings about its rich and diverse history Page 38 Review 47Page 2025
CONTENTS Issue 259 June / July 2025 ISSN 2976 - 9213 NEWS Industry 06 We take a look at the news coming out of FESPA as well as organisations in the UK Business 08 KIT & MEDIA 12 Software 15 People 17 THE Sign show 2025 19 SPECIALS Under the Hood: swissqprint Nyala 5 30 Adventures in Sign painting 33 Fresh perspectives: isabel shanahan 36 Supplier SpotLight: Brownings 38 Industry Tips: Karis Copp Media 40 Recycling schemes 43 Rob Fletcher looks at recycling schemes offered by businesses and associations FEATURES Fespa Review 47 wide-format Print kit part 1 53 Modular sign systems 59 Textlie printing 64 Wall and floor graphics 70 IN THIS ISSUE 06 08 47 40 17 12 64 24 3 www.signlink.co.uk June / July 2025 - Issue 259
ISSUE 259June / July 2025 Publishing director Page Tuck Production Ben Mallon Contributors Rob Fletcher, Michael Walker, Sam Roberts, Karis Copp, Isabel Shanahan 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 Sales manager Tim Hall tim@linkpublishing.co.uk Graphic designer Ben Mallon ben@linkpublishing.co.uk Accounts Kathryn Quinn k.quinn@linkpublishing.co.uk Office therapist Skye SignLink SignLinkMagazine printmonthly_signlink Printed on Sappi Magno Satin from EBB Paper CBP00015512002182040 Hello and welcome to SignLink June/ July! It’s that time of year again as the Summer holidays loom and work schedules get tighter due to various reasons such as holidays, events, and work deadlines. Here at SignLink we’ve been busy gathering together a whole host of content together, while also making some behind the scenes changes. After working for Link Publishing for over 15 years, Shaun Edwards (Shauny to those in the office) has decided to pursue new adventures in publishing, leaving behind a huge legacy here at SignLink. The team would like to thank Shaun for all his support and hard work, and we wish him well in the future. With colleagues moving onto pastures new, this of course means we have new additions to the team. I’m happy to welcome our new graphic designer, Ben Mallon, and our new sales colleague, Lucas Naylor. Both Ben and Lucas have worked extremely hard these past few weeks in putting together our yearly Sign Directory, which you can find included with this issue in order to help you find the products and services you need to win customers. Also arriving in this issue is a brand-new regular article called Fresh Perspectives which looks to shine a light on fresh voices in the wide-format print and signage industries. The idea is to give these voices a space to write in their own words about something they feel is important to talk about. In our first article, Isabel Shanahan, an award-winning artworker from Imageco, talks about her experience in the industry, and how Imageco created an environment for her to grow and feel valued (page 36). Something else that has made the last few weeks incredibly busy was FESPA Global Print Expo and co-locating European Sign Expo which took place this year in Berlin. Me and my colleague Jonathan attended the entire event gathering plenty of video content for you to dive into on our SignLink YouTube channel. To read our full recap of the event head over to page 47 of this edition where you can get a breakdown of some of the big launches as well as the talking points and opinions of this year’s exhibition. Aside from that there is a whole host of useful and insightful articles for you to experience, including a fascinating look at a signage museum in Berlin (page 33), advice for B2B companies using LinkedIn (page 40), and a look at some of the latest wide-format printers on the market (page 53). Happy reading! EDITOR S NOTE MEET THE TEAM VIDEO COVERAGE Scan the QR code to watch our video coverage over on our SignLink YouTube channel Multimedia journalist Jonathan Pert jonathan@linkpublishing.co.uk Sales executive Lucas Naylor lucas@linkpublishing.co.uk Jonathan Pert and David Osgar enjoying the sights in Berlin, while at FESPA 2025 Dave 4 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 259 - June / July 2025 SignLink SignLinkMagazine printmonthly_signlink
INDUSTRY / NEWS 6 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 259 - June / July 2025 The Federation of European Screen Printers Associations (FESPA) has announced that Barcelona will host FESPA Global Print Expo 2026, which is the first time it has been hosted in the city since 2012. The location for 2026 was announced during the 2025 edition of the specialist print trade show, which took place at Messe Berlin, Germany. The 2026 event will take place between May 19th and 22nd at Fira de Barcelona, one of the largest exhibition centres in the world with 240,000sq m of floor space. The co-located European Sign Expo and Personalisation Experience are both set to return alongside the main show. Sports Wear Pro has also been teased for 2026, with details of the event set to be released in due course. Speaking at a press conference announcing the 2026 event, Michael Ryan, head of FESPA Global Print Expo, said: “After an absence since 2012, we’re returning to Southern Europe. We're looking forward to inviting you all once again to sunny Spain. “We couldn’t do Madrid in 2020 because of Covid, and it’s the perfect time now to take this opportunity. It’s a venue which we know well, and we’re looking forward to collaborating closely with the FESPA association in the area.” FESPA also used the conference to announce that Daniel Sunderland, current vice president of Canagraf, will be the new FESPA president, taking on the role for the next three years. Sunderland joined as a member of the board of directors for FESPA in 2019. The location news comes amidst a number of recent developments in the Spanish wide-format print and signage industries. This includes a recent expansion by Moss, which boosted its European presence with the opening of a new office in Barcelona. The live event graphics and branded installations producer chose offices nearby to Fira de Barcelona, in order to capitalise on the potential business that the event space could provide (read more on page 9). FESPA 2026 will take place from May 19th to 22nd, 2026, at Fira de Barcelona By Jonathan Pert Location and dates announced for FESPA 2026 The protection of neon signage has been debated in the UK House of Commons, with politicians calling on the craft to be legally protected. The House of Commons debate was the culmination of an advocacy campaign by Catherine and Tony Spink, neon craftspeople and founders of Neon Creations. The campaign was launched by Catherine Spink in 2023 to put an end to what they say is the false advertising of LED signs listed as ‘neon’. Last month (May 6th), MP Yasmin Qureshi addressed the House of Commons on the issue of protecting the heritage craft of neon sign-making in the UK. Qureshi called upon the government to protect the definition of neon, in order to prevent the heritage craft from being overtaken by cheaper, mass-produced alternatives. During the debate, Sir Chris Bryant, minister of state for Culture, Media, and Sport, agreed that greater clarity is needed about what defines something as neon, insisting that the government would help to protect the craft. Major update to the legal definition of neon Sir Chris Bryant, minister of state for Culture, Media, and Sport, said that “clearer definitions and protections” could be given to the craft of neon The team at FASTSIGNS St Albans along with the business’s UK head office is backing Rosie Lees, a visual communications specialist at St Albans, who is joining four others from a local business networking group to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in order to raise money for a mental health charity. Lees and her group are tackling the challenge following previous challenges such as a three-day walking challenge in the Lake District, completing a 10km race, running a half marathon, and hiking and training in the gym up to six days a week. Funds are being raised for The OLLIE Foundation, an initiative that launched in 2016 by three parents in order to prevent suicide and support mental health amongst young people. After facing her own mental health challenges, the charity is close to Lee's heart. The aim of Lees and her group is to raise £12,500 in build up to the challenge which will be documented on Instagram and Lee’s Just Giving page. Rosie Lees (second from left) undertaking a three-day walking challenge ahead of her Kilimanjaro fund raiser By David Osgar FASTSIGNS St Albans employee takes on Kilimanjaro challenge By Jonathan Pert Michael Ryan discussing plans for next year’s FESPA Global Print Expo SignLink SignLinkMagazine printmonthly_signlink
Wide-format supplier, Papergraphics, has been honoured at HP’s recent awards ceremony in Barcelona, where the company was awarded the title of UK and Ireland Best Performing Latex Partner for 2024. Papergraphics’ HP offerings for the UK and Ireland region include the HP Latex 630, 700, and 800 W, along with the superwide-format HP Latex 1500. Speaking of the company’s award, Colin Easton, print channel manager, Large-Format, at HP UK&I, says: “Congratulations to Papergraphics on this well-deserved recognition. The company’s focus, expertise, and dedication to growing the Latex market have been vital to our shared success.” Two UK signage companies are among the winners of this year’s FESPA Awards, which highlights achievements in the speciality print and signage industries. The awards, which were announced during this year’s FESPA Global Print Expo in Berlin, saw 278 entries from over 30 countries competing for prizes. Among the winners was Watford-based commercial printer, Stylographics (Stylo), which won gold in two separate categories, namely Non-Printed Signage and Glass, Ceramic, Metal, and Wood Products. Stylo received the Non-Printed Signage and Glass award for its creative out-of-home (OOH) campaign for Vodafone made during the Wimbledon tennis tournament. The Glass, Ceramic, Metal, and Wood Products award was presented for an interior installation themed around the movie Barbie, complete with pink wall graphics and an illuminated heart-shaped centrepiece. Another UK winner of the FESPA Awards was Imageco, which received the Gold prize in the Display and Packaging on Paper & Plastic category. The Leeds based sign and design services company won the award for a retail display at a Dr Martens store themed around the Netflix mystery series – Wednesday. For the campaign, which commemorated the launch of a limited-edition shoe collection designed around Wednesday, Dr Martens tasked Imageco with transforming its Carnaby London location to resemble a spooky set on the show. Among the graphics and signage displays, the installation included a ‘spiderweb’ window display with layered effects created by multi-pass printing on a swissQprint Nyala 4 flatbed printer. The full list of this year’s winners is available on the FESPA Awards website. Imageco created a colourful spiderweb window display for Dr Martens Papergraphics wins top prize at HP awards Advertising hoarding to be removed from Marble Arch The scaffolding currently encasing Marble Arch, one of London’s most iconic landmarks, will soon be removed to reveal almost two years of cleaning and conservation work carried out by English Heritage. The conservation programme was made possible by advertising revenue generated by Ocean Outdoor, which erected a purpose-built sleeve to shroud the 19th century arch during the English Heritage renovation project, which was offered to advertisers for out-of-home (OOH) displays. The revenue generated by advertising on the 19th Century arch has helped support English Heritage’s repair of the London landmark. During 20 months of work, 13 brands embraced the commercial opportunity, with Ocean managing the installation of 17 purpose-built advertising wraps. Vodafone was the first to take up a residency on Marble Arch after repairs started in August 2023. The final occupier was premium appliance brand Miele, with an experiential activation in April. Other advertisers included Adidas, Cartier, H&M, and Peroni. Restoration work is scheduled to last until the summer, when all scaffolding and fencing will be removed and the repaired and protected arch will be revealed to the public. The advertising hoarding was previously used for a campaign by Gucci during London Fashion Week Outsmart, the UK’s trade body for out-ofhome (OOH) advertising, recently launched a campaign titled ‘Vision for Growth’, which calls upon the UK government to boost growth within the sector. As part of the campaign, Outsmart has given a range of recommendations to promote expansion within the OOH industry and address current barriers to economic growth. Vision for Growth calls for the removal of business rates on social infrastructure. According to Outsmart, this would allow media owners to reinvest in public spaces, benefiting communities while simplifying financial processes for local councils. Outsmart is also calling for extending express planning consents from five to ten years to provide long-term stability. Outsmart represents media owners responsible for over 90% of the OOH sector’s revenue in the UK By Jonathan Pert By Jonathan Pert By Jonathan Pert UK print and signage companies among FESPA Awards winners Outsmart calls on UK government to boost OOH sector Director of Papergraphics, Doug Gilbertson (second from left) accepted the award in person at the event INDUSTRY / NEWS 7 www.signlink.co.uk June / July 2025 - Issue 259
8 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 259 - June / July 2025 BUSINESS / NEWS UK digital print technology and materials supplier, CMYUK, has been named Canon's top global sales partner for its UVgel Colorado printer series in 2024. The accolade, announced and presented on the opening day of this year’s FESPA Global Print Expo, follows CMYUK’s recent announcement that it was also Canon’s top partner in Europe for Colorado sales in the same period. CMYUK edged out competition from international markets, with a reported increase in global competition for the award in the last year. The printer aims to carve out a unique position in the mid-volume sector for 1.6m wide-format printing, creating what has been described as a ‘market within a market’. The Colorado is designed to replace multiple printers with a single fully modular unit, with the ability to configure and update the system as you go. When presenting the award, Canon highlighted several factors that it felt were behind CMYUK's success with the Colorado series, including its focus on customer service and a strong understanding of the Colorado series’ modularity. Sue Hayward, commercial director at CMYUK, adds: "This latest award from Canon, recognising CMYUK’s global pre-eminence, is a testament to our team's hard work and our customers' trust in the Colorado series. “The Colorado has been a highly successful addition to our world-class production portfolio, and we look forward to continuing our very successful collaboration with Canon this year.” CMYUK named top Canon Colorado distributor in the world members of CMYUK being awarded the Canon's top global sales award by representatives of Canon at FESPA Global Print Expo 2025 Sussex Sign Company launches new wrapping centre The Sussex Sign Company has announced the opening of a new vehicle wrapping centre at its recently opened premises in Goddards Green, Burgess Hill. The expansion, which comes as the signage company marks its 30th anniversary, is a result of the company’s ambition to enhance its offerings in vehicle livery and wrapping, which it sees as an expanding market. The centre is designed to meet what the company perceives as an increasing demand for high-quality vehicle branding, providing a larger number of businesses with its wrapping services. Alongside the vehicle wrapping services provided from its head office in Portslade, The Sussex Sign Company now provides dual-site operation to customers across the Sussex region. The signage company is also hoping to invest in additional workshop space in 2025, adding 92sq m to its production warehouse to improve its vehicle wrapping and premium signage offerings. By Jonathan Pert Trotec laser and eurolaser announce sales partnership Two well-known manufacturers in laser technology, Trotec Laser and eurolaser, have announced that they are entering a sales partnership. The partnership has been made with the goal of combining the companies’ strengths, offering customers more targeted advice and providing optimally tailored system solutions based on the many decades of market experience both companies have. The two companies focus on different areas of specialisation within the laser sector, with Trotec offering a broad portfolio of systems for engraving, marking, and cutting in small and medium formats, while eurolaser specialises in wide-format, precise cutting of non-metallic materials. Both companies will remain autonomous and independent following the Simplex has announced the acquisition of the Octopus Sign System from sign and display product manufacturer, Workshop2. Octopus is a wayfinding fingerpost system constructed from aluminium extrusions, designed for environments including town centres, business parks, and campuses. Simplex, a trade-only signage supplier headquartered in West Sussex, has purchased Workshop2’s entire stock of Octopus Sign System products including the transfer of dies for future runs of extrusions. Following the acquisition, Octopus products will be available exclusively from Simplex and its customers. Speaking of the purchase, Andy Thorne, managing director of Simplex, says: “This well engineered system sits seamlessly with our other products and compliments our LOOK system when wayfinding monoliths are required as part of the same scheme.” In addition to the Octopus Sign System, Simplex has announced the introduction of a solid finger system allowing pictograms and logos to be cut through. The system also allows for over cladding of the post, designed for ease of replacement in vandal prone areas. partnership, while leveraging synergies in market knowledge, consultancy, and their global networks. Laura Capone, chief executive officer of eurolaser, says: “Our partnership unites two strong brands with a shared commitment to top quality and customised solutions. This results in a clear advantage in terms of advisory competence for our customers.” Trotec and eurolaser will remain autonomous and independent during the partnership By Jonathan Pert Acquisition of Octopus Sign System Complete By Jonathan Pert SignLink SignLinkMagazine printmonthly_signlink
BUSINESS / NEWS Moss, a producer of live events graphics and branded installations, has expanded its European presence with the opening of a new office in Barcelona. The new office is located near Fira de Barcelona, one of the largest exhibition centres in the world with 240,000sq m of floor space. Moss already has offices in Poland and Germany, as well as its UK facility in St Neots, Cambridgeshire. The new location has been chosen to allow graphics and branding solutions from Moss to be delivered more quickly and efficiently across Spain, significantly shortening lead times. The Spanish office will be led by Marc Montenegro, who will serve as the local contact for clients, partners, and prospective customers in the role of sales executive. Montenegro enters the role with close to a decade of previous experience in large-format printing, B2B sales, and project management. He previously worked as an account manager for visual communications and advertising company, Sundisa. Peter Bottenberg, managing director of Moss Europe, says: “With the opening of our new office in Barcelona, we are Moss expands European presence with new Spanish office Newly hired sales executive, Marc Montenegro, in front of Fira de Barcelona reinforcing our commitment to service, meaning we’re fast, reliable, personal, and in close proximity to our customers. “Our goal is to be wherever our customers need us. We see ourselves as a true partner, and that’s exactly what we’re now bringing to life in Spain.” Jason Popp, president and chief executive officer of Moss, adds: “Barcelona is one of the most important trade fair and event locations in Europe. With its proximity to Fira de Barcelona, one of the largest exhibition centres in the world, and numerous other international event venues, this step is a logical move for Moss and a real added value for our clients in Spain.” Moss also recently expanded its presence in the UK with the purchase of large-format printer, Rocket Graphics. According to Moss UK, the acquisition was made to expand its UK footprint and strengthen its position in the corporate brand experiences and live events spaces. By Jonathan Pert Italian print manufacturer, Durst Group, has announced the finalisation of its merger with digital textile manufacturer, Aleph. Durst first announced the acquisition of Aleph in September 2023, a purchase made with the aim of enhancing Durst’s position in water-based and sustainable printing technologies. Aleph, also based in Italy, focuses on sustainable digital solutions for textiles and interior and exterior decorations. The merger is now in its final phase, with Aleph expected to be fully integrated into the Durst Group by the end of 2025. Upon completion, the company will become a subsidiary of the wider Durst Group, taking on the name of Durst Como. Much of the key leadership team from Aleph will continue in senior roles in the newly formed Durst Como, including the company’s founders. Alessandro Manes, previous chief executive officer and co-founder of Aleph, will take on the role of director of global sales, Industrial Textile, overseeing global sales activities. Product management will be centralised under the leadership of Andrea Riccardi, who is currently head of product management, Graphics and Textile, at Durst Group. Christoph Gamper, chief executive officer and co-owner of Durst Group, says: “Durst Como will be our innovation centre for the textile future – a hub that unites technology, software, and passion.” Durst finalises Aleph merger Durst exhibited its LF 430 GF DTF printer at this year’s FESPA, developed as a result of the Aleph merger UFABRIK partners with CarbonQuota to provide full lifecycle data UFABRIK, a manufacturer of digital display textiles, has announced a partnership with environmental consultant, CarbonQuota, to provide a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) for its product portfolio. The LCA will aim to provide UFABRIK customers and brands with independent environmental information for all textiles within its range. UFABRIK’s intention to integrate LCAs is part of a desire by the company to position itself as an industry leader in robust sustainability practices, while allowing customers to meet their own regulatory and sustainability targets. Robin East, group chief commercial officer at UFABRIK, says: “We don’t want to follow senseless standards that have created a disingenuous trend of product positioning, now so commonly used in greenwashing; we’re looking to redefine honest and credible certification within our industry.” By Jonathan Pert 9 www.signlink.co.uk June / July 2025 - Issue 259
KIT & MEDIA / NEWS Wide-format and fabric printer, MediaCo, has announced the installation of a Durst P5 350 H/S Fluo, reportedly the first in the UK to do so. The hybrid press is capable of handling both multi-roll, dual roll, and rigid boards up to 3.5m wide, designed for high capacity runs for clients in retail, exhibitions, events, property marketing, and bespoke custom builds. The Fluo model introduces fluorescent ‘neon’ effect ink technology, widening the possible print applications available and allowing the exploration of high-contrast and ‘ultra-bright’ signage that commands attention. The press joins MediaCo’s existing swissQprint Kudu flatbed printer, which also offers UV ‘neon’ printing. MediaCo was also the first UK company to purchase the Kudu in 2023. The Durst solution was also reportedly chosen for its sustainable credentials, with MediaCo highlighting its LED curing technology as allowing the printer to operate at lower temperatures, consume less energy, and eliminate ozone emissions. In a release about the purchase, MediaCo says that its latest investment “signals a bold step forward, offering clients access to cutting-edge print technology that enhances brand visibility like never before.” The purchase is part of wider expansion goals for MediaCo, which aims to secure its goal as an industry leader by continually advancing its capabilities. Stephen Arthur, managing director of MediaCo, says: “At MediaCo, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in industrial printing. “With the Durst P5 350 H/S Fluo, we’re not just increasing our capacity, we’re unlocking new creative opportunities for our clients.” MediaCo installs Durst P5 350 H/S Fluo in UK first The Durst P5 350 H/S Fluo introduces fluorescent ‘neon’ effect ink technology Norfolk signage company expands into small-format Signage company, This is Effective, has expanded into in-house small-format print with the purchase of a Xerox Versant 280 digital press. The Xerox solution, purchased alongside a range of binding, stitching, folding, and cutting equipment, was added to This is Effective’s arsenal as part of the company’s wider business development plan to offer customers a single supplier solution for all printing and marketing needs. The Versant press allows the Norfolk-based company to provide business cards, leaflets, flyers, postcards, and other promotional items direct from its Great Yarmouth facility. The Versant 280 offers an adaptive ‘CMYK+’ ink kit that includes speciality toners including gold and silver as well as multiple ‘fluorescent’ options that glow under UV light, namely cyan, magenta, and yellow. By Jonathan Pert Soyang Europe unveils new textile solution Premier Digital Textiles rolls out PrepRITE fabrics Premier Digital Textiles has announced the launch of its new PrepRITE range of fabrics to the global market. The PrepRITE collection includes multiple fabrics in various weaves, weights, constructions, and compositions, designed with the aim of helping transform creative ideas into printed applications. Nick Smith, managing director of Premier Digital Textiles, says the launch comes at what is an “exciting time” for the business. Part of Premier Textile Group, Premier Digital Textiles operates alongside US-based Premex Solutions and Bancroft Soft Furnishings. The company began trading in the UK in August 2023. Smith says: “What we have is a specialised fabrics brand that enhances print performance across a wide range of ink types, including sublimation, pigment, and latex inks.” Discount Displays upgrades to new Zünd cutter Discount Displays, a supplier of display products and exhibition stands, has enhanced its production capabilities with the installation of a new Zünd G3 L-3200 digital cutter. Though Discount Displays previously utilised a Zünd PN Cutter for 17 years, the decision to choose Zünd again reportedly followed an extensive review of other cutting systems. According to the company, a key reason it went back to the Swiss manufacturer was the strength of its support infrastructure in the UK. The cutter includes integrated camera technology which can reduce setup times, enhance precision, and ensure consistent quality during the production process. Soyang Europe has expanded its collection of textile solutions with the launch of ST-225 Nero Blackback, a new 100% warp-knitted polyester fabric with a black back. Soyang says the new material delivers “outstanding” colour vibrancy and sharp image quality, offering complete opacity and eliminating light transmission. The solution is compatible with both UV ink and dye-sublimation printing methods, including direct and paper transfer. ST-225 Nero Blackback is available now in 3.2m and 5m and standard lengths of 50m and 100m, with Soyang saying this makes it a suitable solution for applications such as backdrops, popups, exhibition and event graphics, and display systems. Discount Displays upgraded to a Zünd G3 L-3200 digital cutter to increase its capacity and creative possibilities 12 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 259 - June / July 2025 This is Effective, which previously traded as Effective Imaging, has purchased a new Xerox Versant 280 digital press By Rob Fletcher By Jonathan Pert By Rob Fletcher SignLink SignLinkMagazine printmonthly_signlink
13 www.signlink.co.uk June / July 2025 - Issue 259 KIT & MEDIA / NEWS Epson used this year’s FESPA Global Print Expo to release another two solutions to the market, following the recent launches of its new high-end photo printer presses, the SureColor P7300 and P9300. Epson used the specialist print exhibition to launch the SC-S8100, the newest member of its lineup of 64-inch large-format eco solvent signage printers. The press comes with six-colour capabilities, combining CMYK with light cyan and light magenta. Joining the recently introduced SC-S7100, the SC-S8100 is the successor to the S60600 series, designed to meet the evolving demands of signage professionals with higher productivity and improved reliability compared to its predecessor. The SC-S8100 features an expanded ink configuration utilising Epson’s Ultra Chrome GS3 ink set, developed to achieve high print quality with reduced banding levels. The press comes with a new, larger Precision Core MicroTFP printhead, with productivity reportedly increased by up to 30% depending on material type when compared with the SC-S60600. The new printhead increases the total number of nozzles from 7,200 to 9,600, and is faster in all main print modes, reportedly resulting in improved throughput and reduced banding with the use of multi-layer halftone technology. The S8100 also features a transparent cover and low-profile design, allowing users to monitor fleet status from multiple angles. Epson also used FESPA to release the SureColor V2000, a compact A3 UV flatbed desktop printer designed for on-demand customisation of merchandise, promotional items, and small-format signage. The V2000 prints directly onto a wide range of materials including acrylic, metal, and wood, supporting media up to 70 mm in thickness. Using UltraChrome UV ink, the press features a ten-colour ink set that includes grey, red, white, and varnish. An expanded gamut and smooth tonal gradation has been developed to enable high-quality print results with vivid colour depth and minimal graininess. The solution comes with replaceable 140ml ink packs designed to streamline operations and maintenance and minimise waste. The V2000 is designed for space-conscious environments, offering a relatively compact footprint. It comes with a built-in air filtration system and a low rear clearance requirement, allowing it to be placed against a wall. Epson releases two more print solutions to market Epson released the V2000 at this year's FESPA Global Print Expo China Print Supplies (CPS) has announced the immediate availability of the SinoColor UV Flatbed range and revealed the machines will be showcased at this year’s edition of The Sign Show. The new collection comprises three machines – 1.6m, 2.5m, and 3.2m versions – each of which comes with variable numbers of printheads, allowing customers to select the most suitable solution for their requirements. As to how many printheads customers can select, this has been improved, with the 2.5m SinoColor FB2513s increasing from two to eight heads up to a new maximum of 12 heads, delivering speeds up to 120sq m/hr. This upgrade is also available for the 3.2m machine, which now offers between four and 12 printheads. Also in the range is a 900x600mm model for direct-to-object printing. Upgraded to support up to eight printheads, the machine features a new magnetic drive system for improved precision and enables up to 50cm print depth. Other options for customers include high drop printing, fluorescent ink options, and full white ink recirculation for stable printing further enhance creative applications, as well as smart cameras which can be integrated for object scanning and precise image placement. Scott Clutton, managing director of CPS, comments: “We first brought these machines to the UK market last year and are delighted with the response and feedback we have had for them. We are now delighted to offer the complete range to the UK market, bringing incredible quality, reliability, and value to our customers.” “I have worked with large-format printers for many years, and I am very confident in saying that these machines are real game changers. Speed, quality, and reliability are all equal to the big brands, but the price isn’t." Speaking about the value for money of the solutions, Clutton adds: “In terms of what you get for your money, these machines offer unparalleled quality and speed, and this can really push your business forward. And you can purchase them safe in the knowledge that all our printers are backed by what we really do best – service and support.” China Print Supplies unveils SinoColor UV Flatbed range China Print Supplies will showcase its new technology at The Sign Show 2025 By Jonathan Pert By Rob Fletcher
14 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 259 - June / July 2025
15 www.signlink.co.uk June / July 2025 - Issue 259 SOFTWARE / NEWS Adobe has released version 7 of its Adobe PDF Print Engine rendering platform which adds a range of new features designed to streamline workflows and improve overall print quality. New features in Engine 7, which were first officially announced at this year’s FESPA Global Print Expo, include in-RIP multicolour transparency blending, which is reportedly an industry first. The feature is designed to overcome the technical hurdles of transparency blending for expanded colour gamut (ECG) print jobs. The tool can blend transparency and separate plates for presses with CMYK plus any combination of inks, for example orange, green, and violet (CMYK+OGV). Jobs that contain one or more transparent elements can take full advantage of the press gamut with the feature designed to enable the images and graphics in the job to appear more vivid. In-RIP rendering of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator job files are available in version 7 for designers who use Illustrator and Photoshop to submit jobs in native format instead of PDF. With the function, prepress operations can eliminate the manual steps of opening the job in the design application and converting it to PDF. Bleed generation features have also been added for jobs that will be trimmed but were submitted with graphics that stop at the trimline. A bleed can now also be generated as part of the rendering stage, eliminating the need for interactive pre-RIP remedies. For wide-format applications, an in-RIP cutline expansion is now available for jobs that will be printed on a wide-format press before being finished on a cutting table. For this, the perimeter cutline can be automatically modified to account for the thickness, angle, and pressure of the cutting implement as well as the flexibility of the substrate, aiming to eliminate the need for manual preparation. The new functions are integrated directly into the rendering pipeline inside the RIP, aiming to reduce the need for specialised skill sets and eliminate separate prepress operations. The beta release of PDF Print Engine 7 was made available to Adobe print RIP software development kit licensing partners in April, with the final Gold Master edition due to be distributed to them in August. Adobe expects that industry-leading OEMs and RIP vendors will begin to release products powered by version 7 in 2026. Adobe Print Services will be made available to Adobe print partners in the near future, with further announcements expected in due course. The PDF Print Engine powers print production across all industry segments, reportedly driving over 200,000 presses and proofers worldwide By Jonathan Pert Adobe launches new PDF Print Engine InkTec Europe has announced an expansion to its strategic partnership with RIP solution provider Onyx Graphics. The deal, which builds on a decade-long relationship between the two companies, will see Onyx continue to enhance its RIP software solutions to give more choice to customers of the JETRIX wide-format printer brand from InkTec. This development, Onyx says, will grant JETRIX users superior accuracy and consistency with their printed work, as well as compliance with industry standards. Onyx also notes that its software is customisable and scalable solutions for businesses of all sizes, while users will also benefit from automated workflow tools such as advanced nesting and site management solutions to improve efficiency, as well as ongoing updates and expert assistance. Joey Kim, managing director at InkTec Europe, says: “As we continue to evolve our JETRIX printer series, it is crucial to partner with industry leaders like ONYX. Their innovative software solutions perfectly complement our technology, providing our customers with powerful, streamlined workflows and outstanding print quality.” InkTec Europe expands strategic deal with Onyx Graphics Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems has launched the latest version of its table operating software, IPC 3.1, which has been significantly redesigned based on customer feedback. The software, which is available immediately across Kongsberg's latest models, offers a cloud-enabled operating system which delivers a range of enhancements designed to increase productivity. Additions of the operating system include a new ‘dynamic nicks’ feature, developed to simplify material handling by ensuring that cut parts and waste remain connected during unloading. The feature allows users to add or change the size and placements of nicks without the need for a third-party software, or without altering the original file path. A redesigned user interface aims to provide a ‘touch-friendly’ experience with real-time feedback, reducing the learning curve for new operators and allowing customers to better leverage the features and precision of their existing cutting tables. The latest version of IPC 3.1 software is available for all recent Kongsberg PCS platforms including Kongsberg Ultimate, C-series, X-series, and select earlier generation models. Kongsberg releases new cutting table operating software By Rob Fletcher By Jonathan Pert
17 www.signlink.co.uk June / July 2025 - Issue 259 PEOPLE / NEWS The Federation of European Screen Printers Associations (FESPA) has announced the death of FESPA honorary board member and past president, Lascelle ‘Las’ Barrow. Barrow, who passed away on May 22nd at the age of 79 after a prolonged fight with cancer, was the co-founder of wide-format printer, Augustus Martin, a specialist in point-ofsale (POS) and outdoor media which currently lists roughly 200 employees. Barrow founded the company with partner Barrie Dix after meeting at the age of 19 during their studies at the London College of Printing, starting their printing business in an attic. Barrow has been cited by FESPA as a driving force behind the association’s growth for more than 30 years. He served as president of FESPA from 1992 to 1996, and from 2013 to 2015. Barrow also served on the Finance and New Business committees and was later recognised in 2022 as an honorary FESPA board member. According to FESPA, Barrow was instrumental in the decision to bring the organisation of FESPA exhibitions inhouse in the late 1990s, devising a sustainable commercial model to finance FESPA’s operations without diverting funds from its national member associations. Barrow was a long-standing director of the FESPA UK Association and was said to be an enthusiastic supporter of the role of FESPA’s member assoAugustus Martin co-founder passes away following battle with cancer Lascelle Barrow passed away on May 22nd, 2025 ciations in creating value for print businesses at grass roots level. In a statement about Barrow’s passing, FESPA also highlights that he was a key part of FESPA’s embracing of digital technology, the global expansion of its event brand, and the licensing of the FESPA brand to national associations. FESPA chief executive officer, Neil Felton, says: “With Las’s passing, we say ‘farewell’ to someone who has been the beating heart of FESPA. “He had a razor-sharp mind and an unshakeable focus on steering us forward – motivated by his passion for print, his desire to help print entrepreneurs like himself, and his confidence in the transformative potential of technology.” Speaking on behalf of FESPA, Felton adds: “His commitment, energy and presence will be sorely missed by the global FESPA family. Our sincerest condolences go to Lascelle’s wife Myrtle, his children, their extended family and friends, and his Augustus Martin colleagues.” By Jonathan Pert Soyang Europe has announced the appointment of Mark Mashiter as its new group chief executive officer. Mashiter has served as managing director of the wide-format material manufacturer and hardware distributor since June 2005. As group chief executive officer, he will continue to oversee the running of Soyang alongside a newly revamped board of directors. Board members include sales director Oliver Mashiter, operations director Simon Mashiter, and company secretary Catherine Mashiter, as well as finance director Daniel Dimambro, procurement director Shane Furness, and Lauren Gawthorpe who works in the accounts department. Speaking of the members of the board, Mark Mashiter says: “Soyang has always very much been a family business, with family values and business integrity at the forefront of everything we do. “I have appointed a board which includes both family and long-term trusted employees, all of whom have served their time and worked their way up through the business on merit. The formation of our new board is the next logical step for us. The time is right to let this group of talented individuals take on more leadership within the business and use their knowledge of the industry to further improve the service we offer to customers.” Soyang announces new CEO and board of directors [L to R] Oliver Mashiter, Daniel Dimambro, Lauren Gawthorpe, Catherine Mashiter, Shane Furness, and Simon Mashiter, Soyang Europe’s new board of directors Claire White appointed as new SDEA vice president Claire White, design specification consultant at materials distributor, Antalis, has been elected as the new vice president of the Shop and Display Equipment Association (SDEA). White has almost two decades of previous experience in visual merchandising and retail development which she utilises in her design specification role at Antalis, providing advice and support to a range of clients including interior designers, creative agencies, and retailers. White said: “Having been a council member for the past three years, I am incredibly excited, honoured, and delighted to accept the role of vice president for the coming year.” Mark Chatterton of retail wholesale supplier, Morplan, has also been confirmed to continue in his role as the SDEA’s president. By Jonathan Pert
19 www.signlink.co.uk June / July 2025 - Issue 259 EVENTS - / NEWS In a significant demonstration of support for this year’s inaugural event, HP has signed up to exhibit at The Sign Show 2025 and revealed it will use the exhibition in September to show off several new products. HP has enjoyed a regular presence at the co-located The Print Show for many years, working with distributors and partners to demonstrate various technologies. The manufacturer also previously had its own stand at The Print Show, with this year marking its return under a HP-branded banner. Colin Easton, UK and Ireland HP Large-Format Print channel manager at HP, says the decision was taken due to the nature of the event. While HP will be based near the main entrance, inside The Sign Show area of the event, the co-location with The Print Show will grant the manufacturer access to visitors from across the print and signage markets. “We are thrilled to be part of The Sign Show, a vital gathering of creative minds and business leaders in the sign-making community,” Easton says, continuing: “The Sign Show provides a supreme platform for HP to debut our most recent innovations, tailored to meet the dynamic needs of the sign and display market. “Attendees will have the opportunity to experience HP’s range of wide-format printers, high-resolution graphics solutions, and our most environmentally certified printing technologies designed to elevate the quality and efficiency of signage production.” Gain a Competitive Advantage As to what HP will be focusing on during the show this year, Easton says the manufacturer’s aim will be to connect with both existing customers and potential clients to demonstrate how working with HP technology can help their businesses succeed and grow. This reach will extend further with the co-located events set to welcome a hugely diverse audience from all corners of the print and sign-making markets, many of which HP is active in. “Our goal is to empower sign-makers with tools that not only enhance productivity but also enable them to produce stunning, environmentally friendly visuals that stand out in today’s competitive market,” Easton says. “We have just launched our latest HP Latex R530 all-inone printer to the market and The Sign Show offers a great opportunity to showcase how the machine will transform production and grow profits with the only compact all-in-one rigid and flexible HP Latex printer. “The Sign Show will provide sign-making companies in the UK a unique chance to source all the technology, services, and new suppliers they need under one roof.” Exciting Technologies The HP Latex R530 will be one of the main highlights on the HP stand. The machine has a maximum printing width of 1.6m and can handle materials as thick as 5cm. Additional features on the new printer include running a single roll up to 55kg in weight and three-litre ink cartridges in colour and white. On top of this, as is the case with all HP Latex printers, the machine runs water-based HP Latex inks, which the manufacturer says have less impact on the environment than other ink types. Also on display at the HP stand will be HP Latex 830W, another new solution that can print on media as wide as 1.6m. The latest ‘W’ model allows users to print with white ink, which HP says opens up a wider range of application opportunities. “We have introduced the HP Latex 730 and 830 Printer Series to the market, allowing sign-makers to maximise the productivity and deliver high-value jobs with consistent quality,” Easton says. Other machines set for live demos at The Sign Show include the HP Latex 630W, which also offers a maximum print width of 1.6m, runs one-litre ink cartridges, and can print with white ink. Aside from HP Latex technology, visitors to HP’s stand will also have the opportunity to view the HP DesignJet Z9 Pro and HP DesignJet XL3800, a multi-function colour printer that offers a range of features such as 128GB of memory for file processing and 500ml ink supplies. HP hails The Sign Show as “supreme” platform for new tech HP can be found on stand S300 at The Sign Show 2025 By Rob Fletcher HP will be showcasing several new machines on its stand at The Sign Show
20 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 259 - June / July 2025 Hybrid Services, the exclusive distributor for Mimaki in both the UK and Ireland, will exhibit at The Sign Show this year, with plans to showcase a range of printers to visitors from the print and sign-making markets. While the company is keeping the exact details of the machinery it will display at the show under wraps for the time being, Andy Gregory, sales director at Hybrid Servies, says there will be something for everyone in print and signage. “Mimaki’s track record for innovation speaks for itself, and in its 50th anniversary year, that momentum continues,” Gregory comments, adding: “We’ll be bringing a range of the latest Mimaki technologies to the show – all designed to offer our customers creative, reliable, and profitable solutions that drive their businesses forward. “As Mimaki’s exclusive distributor for the UK and Ireland, The Sign Show offers a fantastic platform for Hybrid to showcase the latest technology from the Japanese manufacturer.” Gregory also addressed the event as a whole, welcoming the decision from organiser, Link Exhibitions, to launch a show dedicated to sign-making in the UK. “Hybrid has proudly supported The Print Show since it began, and we’re excited to now embrace this new event, which places the sign industry front and centre. It’s a great opportunity to connect with an even broader audience and demonstrate what Mimaki has to offer.” With this, Gregory issued a call for the industry to support the new event in its inaugural year. He says that this will help establish the exhibition on the UK calendar as an annual gathering for the market, allowing it to grow and evolve into an even bigger event over the coming years. “We know how precious time is for sign-makers and print professionals, so we’re committed to making every visit worthwhile.” Hybrid Services will feature on Stand S110 near the entrance to Hall 3 of the NEC. Hybrid Services and Mimaki teases “something for everyone” at TSS Hybrid Services used The Print Show 2024 to host the European launch of the Mimaki CJV200 solvent printer/cutter By Rob Fletcher The Sign Show will welcome visitors to its debut event with a special feature area offering valuable insight into the world of wrapping. Situated at the centre of the event, the School of Wrap will showcase skills across both the vehicle wrapping and architectural wrapping sectors, allowing those in attendance to learn more about the techniques involved with this work, as well as the opportunities available to them across the two create sectors. Among the experts that will be running the area is Chris Edwards, director of CVI Group, who regularly hosts a range of specialist training courses on vehicle wrapping. He also recently lent his expertise to the World Wrap Masters, a global competition that challenges wrappers to test their skills against the best in the business. Edwards served as a guest judge at World Wrap Masters Europe 2025, which took place at FESPA Global Print Expo 2025 in Berlin, Germany. Edwards was in attendance for three days, running the rule over competitors from across Europe, each of which was faced with challenges such as wrapping panels of a Volkswagen Golf, as well as a snow sled and a small acoustic guitar. Commenting on his involvement with the School of Wrap at The Sign Show, Edwards says his main focus will be on helping educate people about wrapping and opening their eyes to new opportunities. “We want to help spread the word on our industry to get younger people coming through to the sector,” Edwards says, adding: “Training is important as there are so many variables that get overlooked and end in failures, not necessarily down to poor workmanship, but just lack of available knowledge, or looking in the right places. “We aim to fill this gap, along with some others in the industry, to help progress wrapping work further.” School of Wrap expert turns judge at World Wrap Masters By Rob Fletcher Chris Edwards of CVI Group will help run the School of Wrap EVENTS - / NEWS SignLink SignLinkMagazine printmonthly_signlink
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