offering end-to-end solutions, Andrew Edwards, partner sales manager (Sign & Graphics) at Hybrid, says: “Roll-toroll printers work best as part of a joined-up production line. When print is aligned with cutting, finishing, and job management, businesses reduce handling, avoid rework and move jobs through faster. “Mimaki’s ecosystem supports this through seamless integration with its cutting solutions and RIP software. In addition, its latest PICT Printer Management Software allows businesses to monitor and manage their printers remotely, track production and maintain oversight across multiple devices or sites. Put together, print, cut and workflow management allows companies to offer a more complete end-to-end service, with better control of quality, lead times, and capacity.” When it comes to Hybrid’s perspective on the changes in customer requests, Edwards says that the company is seeing customers prioritise predictable production and breadth of application over headline specifications. With this in mind, Edwards highlights the recently launched Mimaki UJ330H-160 Hybrid UV printer, as it gives businesses the option to print to roll-fed media and rigid boards on one platform. “For an accessible route into UV, Mimaki’s brand new UJV200-130 and UJV200-160 are strong options for everyday roll applications such as general signage, window graphics and short-run display work,” notes Edwards, who adds: “Solvent options such as the Mimaki JV330/CJV330 and JV200/CJV200 Series remain proven platforms – available in print-only and print-and-cut configurations – for businesses that need consistently highquality throughput and a familiar workflow for sign and graphics production.” Regarding the changes in technologies over the past two to three years experienced by Hybrid, Edwards emphasises the effort to make production easier to run, and easier to repeat. “Mimaki has added automation and control features which reduce set-up time, cutting down operator intervention and helping print companies keep output consistent over long runs and across different media. “These advances included automated media set-up, improved dot control and a raft of Mimaki’s proprietary Core Technologies, all designed to keep printing stable whilst reducing maintenance.” Looking Ahead As evident by all those we have spoken to, roll-to-roll printers remain a stable and evolving part of print and signage hardware, with more variations and options available than was seen before. Van Greunen says: “Looking ahead, rolltoroll print providers are increasingly focused on efficiency, sustainability, and flexibility as they adapt to shorter runs, faster turnaround times, and a broader range of applications. HP continues to invest in technologies that help customers streamline production, reduce waste, and futureproof their businesses. By combining reliable hardware with intelligent workflow and service innovation, HP aims to support longterm growth opportunities for printers and signmakers.” Edwards echoes the simplicity that is being fed into new roll-to-roll devices, adding: “Customers want machines that are straightforward to operate, reliable and affordable to run. Mimaki has addressed that with simpler workflows, reduced routine maintenance and innovative yet simple ink-saving functionality.” Simplicity, affordability, and problemsolving are all elements brought up by the companies we have spoken to, with Agfa and CPS also demonstrating that new technologies, options, and answers are allowing printers and sign-makers to see their output in a new way. If you didn’t think a roll-to-roll printer was an option for your business before, or if you got an older model which lags behind current innovations, perhaps now is the time to investigate the various options on the market. ROLL-TO-ROLL PRINTERS | DAVID OSGAR businesses can streamline everything from job preparation to color management, nesting, queue handling, and production planning. This creates a more efficient path from file submission through to printing and finishing. “When combined with downstream finishing processes such as cutting, trimming, sewing, or mounting, roll-toroll systems help PSPs deliver a more complete service offering. This supports faster turnaround times and leads to greater consistency, with the result of creating a smoother production journey.” Reliability and Affordability Last but not least, we speak to Hybrid Services, the exclusive distributor for Mimaki in the UK and Ireland. The company supplies and supports Mimaki’s entire product portfolio through its network of authorised reseller partners, which Hybrid says are “instrumental in specifying the most appropriate solution for the customer.” Also commenting on the role of roll-to-roll printers in a business Edwards emphasises 41 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 265 - June | July 2026 Customers want machines that are straightforward to operate, reliable and affordable to run Philip Van der Auwera, product manager for Sign & Display at Agfa
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