What to Watch

The various virtual launches of large-format printers this year may mean some have passed you by, so here’s a reminder of the latest introductions just in case new kit is on your Christmas list!

Supply chain protection, pricing worries, eco concerns: they are issues that worry a lot of you.
But should you be more optimistic given what media and inks manufacturers and suppliers are doing?

Times may be tough, but having the right finishing kit could help make things so much easier - literally.

Ever considered whether your print kit could be letting the baddies into your business? Now may be the time to think about it.

If the mere mention of colour-matching is enough to raise your blood pressure, you’re not alone - it’s a difficult area. But relax - the process is being made easier. 

What have your systems suppliers been doing to help you keep running in a disrupted working environment? See if yours are doing as much as others…

When it comes to installing management information systems, all sorts of horror stories circulate in the large-format print space. Print company chiefs talk at length about the lack of sector-specific systems/modules, wasted time and money. So what’s being done to lay these concerns to rest?

Fespa Global and SDUK may not have taken place this spring – but fear not, Simon Creasy brings you up to speed on KEY technical developments that would have been showcased.

Are technology bundles all they’re made out to be? Here’s what a number of the sector’s suppliers had to say on the topic.

Dye-sub is having a catwalk moment. If you’re going to any of this year’s print shows you can expect these printers to be in the spotlight as manufacturers seek to benefit from the rise in fast fashion. Simon Creasy brings you up to speed on developments.

Your cat is smarter than AI. True. So should you ignore it? AI that is, not the cat! Walter Hale brings the subject into focus as we enter a new decade where it promises to dominate.

The manufacturers are in the starting blocks as we go into a bumper trade show year. As they jostle for position Simon Creasy asks ‘what large-format R+D is going to create the biggest impact in 2020?’

Textiles and environment - they are the two watchwords when it comes to key developments in digitally printable substrates. So have the manufacturers/distributors got the focus right?

…as to what’s happening on the digital inkjet inks front. Some of what Simon Creasy hears may surprise you…