Over To You… Barry Page, Digital Creative Services (London)

Digital Creative Services (London) has become the first PSP in the UK to invest in an HP Latex R520 Printer. MD, Barry Page, explains more about his business and why he chose to invest in this particular model.

What is having the greatest impact on your business at the moment?

The greatest impact on our business right now is the rapidly evolving expectations around speed, customisation, and sustainability in print. Clients increasingly expect faster turnaround times and eco-conscious production. We’ve had to adapt by investing in more agile digital presses, streamlining our workflow systems, and sourcing more sustainable materials.

We’re also seeing rising operational costs – particularly in energy, logistics, and consumables – which is pushing us to be more efficient without compromising on quality. Staying competitive means continuously balancing innovation with cost control and customer service.

Where do you see the greatest wide-format opportunities?

Improving office environments with wall graphics and window manifestation. When companies see the difference, it makes and the power to communicate to its staff through the messaging on the graphics, they never go back to plain white surfaces again.

In addition, a key growth market (again due to our location) is going to be free standing exhibition display boards for events.

What would/is making your day-to-day operations easier?

You probably won’t believe this but the recently opened Silvertown Tunnel. Being based in London means traffic is always an issue. Our work often requires fast turnarounds and the second tunnel has really made a difference.

What is your favourite bit of kit?

Anything that prints! I do have a soft spot for our new HP Latex R530 Hybrid large-format printer.

What is the best business advice you have been given?

My old CEO and good friend Peter Furlonge always used to say ‘the numbers do not lie’ and ‘always manage your cash’. These two points have always stayed with me throughout my career.

What is your proudest achievement?

Setting up DCS with my business partner David Gibbons in the middle of COVID when everyone told us not too. We are still here stronger than ever.

Where do you see your business going in the next few years?

I want to keep the business going in the same direction as we are now.

Driving organic growth through exceptional levels of customer service and quality of product.

Continuing to look for sensible and cost-effective acquisitions and mergers.

Maximising our location and benefit from the growth of the Excel London convention centre working with current and new exhibitors attending the conferences and events.

How long have you been in the industry? What attracted you to it?

Having been introduced to print by one of my uncles, I have been in print for over 50 years, having completed my apprenticeship working for E Hallett & Co, a small family run print business in Clapham. I am biased but l still firmly believe print is still the best form of communication.

What is the key to your business’ success?

Teamwork! I learnt at a very early age the importance of building a strong and loyal leadership team something l have always strived to do. The team at DCS are the best!!

You have recently become the first in the UK to invest in an HP Latex R530 printer. Why this product and how has it helped your company?

Firstly, the machine met our criteria in terms of quality, space and sustainability.

Latex printing is the most sustainable option available in commercial large format printing and our clients rely on us to help achieve their sustainability goals which are aligned to our own.

What are your impressions of the printer?

Reliable, easy to use and it generates incredible quality.

Has your company lined up any future investments?

Watch this space!