Expanding Banbury Litho is looking to increase its digital wide-format print kit as it seeks to diversify its offering amid its transition into a more creative company. The company also has a recruitment drive planned for early 2021.
The 42-year-old company, whose transition started 18 months ago, has already invested in a Mimaki JFX200-2513EX flatbed UV printer and an Esko Kongsberg X24 Edge digital cutter with i-Cut software from CMYUK, and runs a Mutoh ValueJet printer, Mutoh Valuecut cutter and Vivid laminators. It is now looking into roll-to-roll equipment too.
“Essentially, what we are building at BL is the look and feel of a creative branding agency with a state-of-the-art production facility. We are developing the front-end of the business, but naturally you need to invest in your production facility as well,” said commercial director Matt Plant.
As part of its development strategy the company has recently introduced a new in-house creative design facility that works alongside a technical innovation and solutions team, which focuses on web-based business tools. It has also undergone a rebrand, all of which helped it grow by 14% prior to Coronavirus.
“We are looking to diversify. With our consultative approach, in-house design capabilities, value-added services and new equipment, we are ready for the new markets that have opened up to us,” said Plant, who explained that Banbury Litho was quick to respond to the changes brought about by Covid-19, registering www.coronavirusprint.co.uk for related products such as signage and display, posters, floor graphics, face masks, visors, gloves and sanitisers. This in turn led to high demand for floor graphics and other types of safety signage, pushing the company to purchase the Mimaki flatbed and Esko cutter.
“Everything we do here needs to add value in some way, not just be a production machine,” said Plant, “which is one of the reasons why we chose the Mimaki JFX200-2513EX, as it offers white and clear inks.” He added: “The Esko Kongsberg is one of the best cutting tables on the market. If you've got the right specification, the right tools, you can produce such wonderful work on it. We want to be doing more packaging concepts, short run packaging, point of sale material, reboard furniture and more.