The Chesham-based business 3 Way Displays is expanding its printing capabilities in the cosmetics and fragrance sectors with the addition of its second swissQprint Impala.
Established in 2000, 3 Way Displays (3WD) has evolved into a premier print solutions provider, serving high-profile customers in the beauty and fragrance industries. Specialising in temporary and permanent point-of-sale displays, and counting Harrods and Charlotte Tilbury as clients, the company has become synonymous with excellence in retail.
In 2017 the business chose a swissQprint Impala to deliver the detail and precision needed for luxury brands and retail displays. With the machine proving a resounding success, the 3WD team saw swissQprint as the only choice when looking to add to its printing room to meet the growing demand for its products. After visiting swissQprint UK's Bracknell headquarters last year to see a demonstration of the latest Impala, the decision was made to invest in a second machine for installation in February.
Striking the right tone
The new Impala aligns seamlessly with its predecessor, boasting a six-colour configuration including CMYK, light magenta, and light cyan, complemented by white and varnish. This setup, augmented by the 1350 dpi from the latest print heads, ensures unparalleled precision in reproducing intricate skin tones and the nuanced shades necessary in cosmetic imagery.
Indeed, the need for precise colour matching and glossy finishes was vital for the business. The inclusion of varnish not only adds a touch of elegance but increases resistance to alcohol, scratching and moisture, crucial for the durability of the displays.
"Accuracy in colour replication is vital for us," said 3WD's Sales Director, Olivia Stroud. "With the Impalas’ capabilities, we're able to meet the high demands of the sector to produce visually stunning displays that give off a luxury feel."
An efficient addition
The new Impala introduces a roll to roll option to 3WD, optimising print times and streamlining workflow, as well as allowing the company to process roll stock along with rigid materials. Additionally, the shift from mercury to LED curing technology is not only a leap in production efficiency but also a stride towards greener printing. The reduced power consumption is significant, dropping to only two kilowatt-hours and together with the Greenguard Gold certified inks, the business can deliver more environmentally friendly print than ever before.
A partnership built on trust and excellence
The decision to continue its partnership with swissQprint was driven by 3WD's trust in the brand, the Impala's unparalleled adaptability, and improved sustainability.
swissQprint UK Sales Manager Steve Pridham said: "We're delighted to continue our longstanding relationship with 3WD. Adding a second swissQprint machine is not only testament to the Impala's quality, but also reinforces the confidence our customers have in our machines and us as partners."