Sep 19, 2011 | Tech Knowledge
There’s been a surge of new machines this year, but who’s going to buy what? Sophie Matthews-Paul comments.
Digital textile printers now cover the entire gamut of investment paths. Key introductions thus far have concentrated mainly on dye-sublimation, although there are other options coming on line, but for the purposes of the display sector, this remains the most popular process.
Jul 12, 2011 | Tech Knowledge
As predicted in my crystal ball gazing feature at the start of 2011, as far as the wide-format sector is concerned we have seen enhancements to existing printer platforms, along with improvements to inks and drying; but there have been no real show-stopping introductions.
This is, in truth, a very healthy state of affairs. That existing engines have been extended to cover different market segments should be regarded as a positive, with most manufacturers introducing new additions and the first to admit that they are using their established technologies to eke out revisions for future equipment.
Read MoreMay 27, 2011 | Tech Knowledge
ROI is what it’s all about, which is why Fujifilm believes it has a way of convincing you that buying an Onset makes sense.
Fujifilm has recently announced a new initiative to encourage printers of all sizes to take its Onset Challenge (see Cover Story) – the intention being to prove the impressive ROI of the range, which has so recently been extended with the S40.
Read MoreMar 31, 2011 | Tech Knowledge
Sophie Matthews-Paul provides guidelines on getting the quality you expect.
It’s a bit like like buying a new car; we all want a bargain but most of us also need a quality motor that won’t let us down and will match the claimed running costs and service charges. And, of course, we would like it to hold its value as the years pass to make sure that it’s been a worthwhile purchase. A wide-format inkjet printer is a similar type of investment, but it also needs to be able to return a profit.
Read MoreMar 10, 2011 | Tech Knowledge
When we remind ourselves about the early days of wide-format digital technology one thing we’ll all acknowledge is that we were pretty limited by the inks and materials available, and how well the machines of the day could handle them. If the results came out well on our chosen substrate, then we were pretty satisfied; if the end product wasn’t fit for purpose, then the ink tended to get blamed.
Wide-format digital print is all about ink and its inherent behaviour during the processes we expect it to endure. For machine manufacturers, it’s the element in their equipment that actually proves the unit is as good as it claims to be. Ink also represents the part of the printing process which tends to play a major role in carrying the responsibility for quality even though it is dependent on machinery and technology for being transferred from cartridge or bottle through to the printhead nozzles and jetted onto the material beneath.
www.printwearandpromotionlive.co.uk
Where?
Hall 20, NEC Birmingham
What is it?
Printwear & Promotion LIVE! is the UK's leading exhibition for the garment and promotional product decoration industry.
The 2026 event saw more than 120 exhibitors showcase the very latest bits of garment decoration equipment and blank garments to thousands of visitors.
Key players from across the marketplace, including Gildan, Roland DG, Fruit of the Loom, Resolute, UPM Metamark, and Stahls’ UK, have already signed up to exhibit.
If you are looking to diversify in 2027, this is one exhibition you should not miss out on!
www.thesignindustryawards.co.uk
Where?
National Conference Centre, Birmingham
What is it?
The Sign Industry Awards, presented by Sign Update, celebrate excellence in the visual communications sector by honouring past achievements, present innovations, and future advancements. These awards recognise outstanding suppliers, sign makers, and individual traders in sign making, digital printing, and visual communications.
Where?
Messe Munich, Germany
What is it?
FESPA Global Print Expo is Europe’s leading exhibition for screen, digital and wide-format printing, textile printing, and signage.
Discover the latest technology, materials, and applications across print, personalisation and signage. You’ll experience live demonstrations, get hands-on with the latest tech and get your business ahead making new connections at networking events. It’s the perfect chance to explore how print is evolving. Co-located with the European Sign Expo, WrapFest and Textile it features product launches, live demonstrations, expert talks, and competitions like World Wrap Masters. With a strong focus on business growth, automation, and investment-ready buyers, the expo is an essential platform for professionals seeking the latest print solutions and industry trends.
Whether you’re a print service provider, a brand owner, or a creative professional, see the future of print coming to life at FESPA 2027. Secure your place at the heart of print innovation.
