Category: Tech Knowledge

It’s a materials world

Nessan Cleary finds that latex compatibility and environmental concerns are the main catalysts for wide-format media development.

When it comes to substrates there are myriad different choices. But there are several trends in the types of substrates being demanded that indicate the overall direction of the wide-format market.

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Making the work flow

There are many different stages in the life of a job, from the quotation through to final output, and its not always easy to link these together. But there is help at hand finds Nessan Cleary.

There is a tendency in wide-format to think in terms of individual machines and their capabilities but where there are multiple machines this can lead to a fragmented production department. The Image Reports’ annual Widthwise survey flags-up that, increasingly, PSPs are recognising that as a problem and looking at ways to improve their workflow.

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Ink on a roll

Nessan Cleary looks at the current trends in ink development for the wide format sector.

One of the most important components of any print system is the ink itself, thus a great deal of R&D money is spent on developing new ink types as you’d expect. It’s a given that for the most part inks determine application possibiities so in a maturing market like the UK, where print companies are generally satisfied with the print quality, speed and price of their wide-format inkjet printers and will only replace their existing devices if a new machine can demonstrate a clear return on investment, new ink formulations are where it’s at for many suppliers. 

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Ink: the colour of money

There are a number of after market ink suppliers around but what are the risks and the benefits of using these inks? Nessan Cleary investigates. 

Ink is arguably the most important component of a printer, as well as potentially being the most expensive over the lifetime of the machine. Naturally the printer manufacturers insist that customers should buy their inks, pointing out that the original inks are designed specifically for the printer in question. But there is a healthy market in third party inks and using these can lead to considerable cost savings.

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Playing with purpose

By being clever with how it works with media Ltd Limited has carved out a niche for creating stunning graphics that invite clients to think outside the box.

When it comes to innovative use of substrates, one print company really stands out. Ltd Limited, based in the east of London, works with materials from around the world, often combining and layering media to create stunning effects. It's a formula that obviously works as the company has just celebrated its tenth anniversary.

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21 February to 23 February 2027
Printwear & Promotion LIVE!

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!

22 February 2027
The Sign Industry Awards

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.

6 April to 9 April 2027
FESPA Global Print Expo 2027

www.fespa.com

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.