Walsall-based large-format print business Colour Graphics has revealed how its use of Soyang’s SL-F04 Premium Solar Greyback Frontlit banner material has allowed the company to expand its sustainable offering and win profitable new work from environment-focused customers.
Established more than 25 years ago, Colour Graphics offers a wide range of printing services including large-format signage, exhibition displays, marketing materials and event graphics.
While demand for its print services in general has been on the rise, Colour Graphics noted a particular increase in interest for banner printing, specifically more planet friendly solutions. In response, the company took the decision to begin offering PVC-free banner printing, allowing customers to select a more sustainable option.
Having worked with Soyang Europe for nearly 10 years, Colourgraphics again turned to the specialist supplier for a solution. After testing a number of products, Colour Graphics identified Soyang’s SL-F04 Premium Solar Greyback Frontlit banner material as the ideal product to meet the demand for more environmentally friendly banners.
A 100% polyester woven fabric coated with a grey back, Soyang SL-F04 banner material offers users a smooth surface and full opacity, making it an effective solution for printed applications such as banners, roll-up banners and home décor.
The fire-resistant fabric – available in widths of up to 5m – is compatible with UV, Latex and (eco) solvent printing technologies. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, it is also degradable and Oekotex Standard 100 Certificated.
“There is a big stigma around the use of PVC, and we were getting asked a lot for non-PVC materials when producing banners,” Colour Graphics’ Sales and Marketing Manager James Birch says. “As we have such a strong relationship with Soyang Europe, we knew they would be able to help us find a solution.”
The decision has proved hugely popular with Colour Graphics customers, with James revealing that the company has been able to win new work from clients that themselves have a strong focus on limiting their environmental impact.
Colour Graphics has been running the material on its new Matic impulse welder, allowing it to produce all sorts of short- to medium-term banner pieces such as pocket banners and café banner systems.
“We tested out a few non-PVC banner materials with the impulse welder and were really impressed with the results of the Soyang product. Non-PVC banner material is notoriously tricky to weld; we’re really pleased to add this high-performing material to our own range,” James adds.
“By offering this new service, we are plugging a hole in the market created by the stigma of PVC and the need to satisfy environmental requirements,” James continues. “For some of our customers, they need to hit certain sustainability targets; our new non-PVC offering helps them to achieve this.
“Soyang Europe supported us every step of the way in selecting the material and we are delighted with the result.”