Quick Print Pro, November 2023

NOVEMBER 2023

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A N TA L I S K E AY K O L O U R C O L L E C T I O N

QUICK PRINT PRO: THE PRINT TRADE JOURNAL FOR NEWS AND VIEWS, NEW PRODUCTS AND SUPPLIERS INFORMATION SINCE 1998 SHARING BEST PRACTICE IN PRINT WITH DIGITAL PRINTERS, COPY SHOPS, ON-STREET QUICK PRINTERS AND IN-HOUSE PRINT ROOMS, ONLINE AND ON YOUR DESK

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Quick Print Pro Quick Print Pro CONTACT Quick Print Pro, Colourfast Group Ltd 36 Cheltenham Place, Brighton. BN1 4AB Tel: 01273 674321 Email: editor@quickprintpro.co.uk Web: www.quickprintpro.co.uk EDITORIAL Marina Peirce EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Nyree Groome EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER Maureen Foulkes

Comment

Remember, remember the fifth of November

Namesake or not, that other ‘Fawkes’ was also very busy at this time of year.

Time to donate all those wooden pallets taking up room in the workplace. Your local bonfire society will be all too pleased to take them off your hands.

We hear from our readers that recycling works to a point when pallets are offered free to artistic carpenters, but somehow, they do block up the workflow.

Get rid and make space for your Christmas stock.

Peter Guy Fawkes

CONTRIBUTORS Lara Groome, Andrew Foulkes, Rebecca Leach and Dan Tester.

FEATURES Peter Foulkes DIGITAL IMAGING & PHOTOGRAPHY Martin Christie MAGAZINE PRODUCTION Dean Cook www.magazineproduction.com DISTRIBUTION Subscriptions printed at Colourfast plus PYO (Print Your Own) file distribution and eZine available on Issuu

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39 years in print: 1984-2023

Quick Print Pro (QPP) — ISSN: 2050-5140 — is published monthly by Colourfast Group Limited, 36 Cheltenham Place, Brighton. BN1 4AB. A company registered in England Number: 2517164. Entire contents within this publication Copyright © 2023 Colourfast Group Limited.

Quick Print Pro is an independent publication and not affiliated with any manufacturers or suppliers. QPP Quick Print Pro celebrates 25 years in publishing the professional print trade’s favourite magazine, formerly known as CSN Copy Shop News. Sharing best practice through both print and digital media, QPP magazine is in front of 36,000 quick print pros each month. Each day the live web version is updated with the hottest stories in frontline printing, including news, views, new products and suppliers information. Avid readers include Digital Printers, Commercial Printers, Copy Shops, On-Street Instant Printers, In-House Print Room Managers, FM and Conventional printers specialising in On-Demand, Short Run, Variable Printing, CRDs (Corporate Reprographic Departments), PSPs (Print Service Providers), Graphic Arts Businesses, Sign Suppliers and CAD Bureaus. QPP is available online and on your desk. www.QuickPrintPro.co.uk

NEWS IN PRINT

22 PAPER NEWS – TWO SIDES

NEW PRODUCTS

24 SHOWTIME

14 DIGITAL IMAGERY

26 GREEN ISSUES

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Hot news in print for quick print pros What’s new to print and finish with?

Martin Christie – pixel prophet

16 PIP PEOPLE IN PRINT Top movers and shakers

18 CHRISTMAS SPREAD Seasonal print for all

20 ANTALIS KEAYKOLOUR COLLECTION

Cover story in 45 shades of colour

Subscribe

Global Anti-Greenwash Campaign Power Of Print Seminar Practice responsibility in print

28 NEW PROFIT CENTRE Best practice shared

32 FINDA PRODUCT / SUPPLIER QPP preferred suppliers in print

34 READERS SCRIBES Your jokes in print

Sign-up for free to our newsletter and discover all the latest news in print, upcoming events, special offers, new product launches and innovative trade and end-user campaigns. Just visit: www.quickprintpro.co.uk

The law on workplace pensions has changed and every employer in the UK must put certain staff into a pension scheme and contribute towards it.

This is called ‘automatic enrolment’.

It’s important that you understand what you need to do — and when you need to do it. This will depend on your circumstances and those of your employees. To work out what you need to do and when you need to do it contact our auto enrolment scheme advisers on:

0800 132100 or email alan.hudson@meridan.co.uk

Help is on hand from the Printing Industry Pension Scheme which has been running since 1986.

Meridan Financial LLP is the appointed advisers for the Printing Industry Pension Scheme (PIPS) and are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Not all Auto Enrolment services are regulated by the FCA.

QUICK PRINT PRO • NOVEMBER 2023

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NEWS

SIGNBOX INVEST WITH SWISSQPRINT NYALA Signbox has installed swissQprint’s best selling Nyala 4 flatbed printer as the business continues to push boundaries with its innovative, iconic and aspirational signage solutions.

Founded in 1985, Signbox built its reputation on transformative signage solutions that help to build brands. Through a combination of design and technology it has focused on delivering the innovative signage that complements customers’ architecture and spaces.

Needing to continue to deliver both novel solutions and meet increased production volumes, the business looked to invest in a new printer and therefore set some demanding criteria. Quality, performance, flexibility and sustainability were all key for Signbox. Having seen the 3.2×2m Nyala in action at Sign UK, and after a full demonstration at swissQprint’s UK headquarters in Bracknell, it was chosen as the ideal machine to meet all its demands.

DELIVERING EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS

The Signbox team opted to use all of the Nyala’s nine colour channels, selecting six colours, white, spot orange and varnish. The addition of orange provides an extended gamut in red and orange tones, while the varnish offers high quality visual and haptic effects.

Alongside the Nyala’s impressive output of up to 206 square metres per hour, it also boasts the latest print head technology, printing at up to 1350 dpi.

For added versatility and productivity, alongside the exceptional print quality, Signbox specified the roll to roll and dual roll options. These allow the business to benefit from the extra capability of printing narrow rolls of material overnight.

“When we saw the Nyala at Sign UK for the first time, it was clear that it would immediately benefit our business,” said Signbox’s Managing Director, Mark Bartlett. “Its production output, flexibility and quality are clearly second to none. However, it is the little things like perfecting a true orange and the ability to print braille that are done so well by swissQprint and will help us provide new and inspirational signage solutions.”

with Signbox’s commitment to delivering improved sustainability. The energy efficiency as evidenced by swissQprint receiving ISO 20690:2018 certification, keeps energy requirements low. While reliable precision printing saves inks, time and materials, reducing inefficiencies. Also, the UV-curable inks are Greenguard Gold certified helping Signbox meet commitments to reducing the environmental impact of its signage for customers.

SUSTAINABLE BRAND GUARDIANS

A COLLABORATIVE APPROACH

Signbox is known as a guardian of its customers’ brands and the addition of the Nyala will ensure this reputation continues. In particular, the ability to print exceptional quality directly onto glass will be hugely beneficial, enabling it to provide the branding required by many of today’s interiors and office spaces.

Alongside its productivity and print innovation, the Nyala’s cutting edge engineering aligns perfectly

Pete Smallwood, Sales Manager at swissQprint UK, said: “Our collaboration with Signbox has been fantastic and we are delighted to have been able to meet their very high expectations. The combination of the Nyala’s innovative print capabilities alongside Signbox’s focus on constantly pushing boundaries will continue to inspire customers and help bring spaces to life.” www.swissqprint.co.uk

BROWNS PRINT INSTAL WITH HORIZON STITCHLINER MARK III

Manchester brochure and booklet specialist Browns Print has increased production capacity, flexibility and reduced outsourcing with an IFS supplied Horizon StitchLiner Mark III. Investment in the new saddle stitching system is part of £2.4m “future proofing” strategy that included a new Heidelberg XL-75 ten colour press — the first in the world to be fitted with a fourth generation Cutstar sheeter — that was installed in March. Browns Print also runs a Heidelberg XL106 and Versafire and Linoprint digital presses.

“We had an older StitchLiner model and we had been running that for a few years,” states Managing Director Danny Baldwin. “It was a great machine. A fantastic piece of kit. We were running our Muller Martini stitching line at full capacity constantly and the StitchLiner was taking more and more work. We needed more capacity. We talked to the IFS team and they suggested the StitchLiner Mark III with two up kit would be faster and more flexible. We didn’t look at any other options on the market because we know and trust Horizon systems. They are very reliable.

“We also liked the fact it could produce landscape work. For those jobs, especially short run work, it was time consuming to finish them in-house. We were also sending some of that work out or we would price ourselves out of the job. Now we can say yes to everything knowing that that it can be completed quickly and cost effectively in house.”

The next generation StitchLiner runs at 6,000 booklets per hour. Its fully automated set-up delivers improved production efficiency and functionality, A4 landscape capability and professional quality.

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Danny Baldwin, Browns Print Managing Director,

Return on investment was not a key deciding factor but Danny says: “With an increase in output of circa 25% the machine will pay for itself in no time. It is quick to set up and easy to run. Originally, we only had one operator trained on it so our bindery manager was also trained and he picked it up very quickly.”

He concludes: “It just doesn’t skip a beat. It is running full speed every hour of every day. In fact, we are looking at putting another shift on.” www.ifsl.uk.com

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

NEWS

N3 DISPLAY GRAPHICS BRIGHTENS CANCER RESEARCH HUB Bristol based signage and exhibition company N3 Display Graphics used Drytac Polar Grip white polymeric self-adhesive vinyl and Drytac ReTac Textures embossed film in a canvas finish to produce a series of eye catching interior graphics for Cancer Research UK’s (CRUK) new distribution facility in Warrington.

The world’s largest independent cancer research organisation, CRUK raises much needed funds to help scientists, doctors and nurses beat cancer. The charity has been working to generate funding for than more 40 years, leading the fight against over 200 types of cancer.

CRUK is one of the best known charitable brands in the UK, with its iconic logo and colours a regular feature in major fund raising events such as the London Marathon and the Great North Run. The brand is also reflected across its various facilities around the UK, including the new Warrington Regional Distribution Centre.

Ahead of opening the facility earlier this year, CRUK approached N3 Display Graphics to decorate the interior of the centre. The project required graphics for various interior surfaces, as well as exterior signage.

For the graphics part of the project, N3 Display Graphics chose to work with Drytac vinyls and films.

The company is a long term user of Drytac materials

and has worked with its products on a wide range of applications.

N3 Display Graphics used Drytac ReTac Textures Canvas embossed film for graphics in the reception area of the facility. The digitally printed wallpaper featured CRUK’s iconic blue colouring and was designed to offer visitors a warm welcome to the centre.

Graphics were also applied to the main warehouse brick wall, transforming the previously blank space into a canvas of inspiration. N3 Display Graphics selected Drytac Polar Grip to create four full height graphics that featured striking photography and merged seamlessly with the brickwork, creating a powerful visual impact.

Other parts of the project included a timeline of CRUK’s history, with this vinyl installation running down one of the corridors inside the centre.

“Our work with CRUK for the Warrington Regional Distribution Centre was a journey of purpose and dedication,” N3 Display Graphics Sales Director Dave Dixon said. “By integrating CRUK’s core values, vision and history throughout the space, we have created an environment that radiates inspiration and hope.

“From the moment staff and visitors approach the facility and step into the reception, to their journey through the corridors and the mesmerising warehouse wall, they are greeted by the spirit of CRUK’s relentless pursuit of a cancer free future.

“We believe that the power of sharing values, vision and history lies not only in honouring the past but also in lighting the way forward. As we reflect on this project, we stand proud of our contribution to strengthening CRUK’s identity and mission, leaving a lasting legacy in the fight against cancer.” www.drytac.com

THE PRINTROOM GROUP INVESTS IN CANON TECHNOLOGY The Printroom Group has strategically invested in Canon technology to continue to reinforce its position within the market. With its recent purchase of both the Canon imagePRESS V1350 and imagePRESS V700 it complements its existing print fleet, helping it achieve an automated production line and driving further business growth through bespoke services.

Founded in 1977, The Printroom Group has continued to solidify its reputation for offering the full spectrum of printing services. The family run business has transformed over the years ensuring it stays ahead through offering its customers a full range of services including the use of its in-house graphic design studio plus fulfilment and finishing.

Having worked with Canon since the 1990s with the Canon CLC1000 and more recently with two imagePRESS C10000VPs, its latest decision to invest in Canon’s state of the art digital print equipment was not a difficult one. Emerging as the clear supplier of choice due to the outstanding speed, superior output quality and impressive eco-friendly certifications of products and solutions, Canon won the deal.

Keith Cooper, Managing Director at The Printroom Group comments: “We’re already seeing major business benefits from these new devices, including reduced costs and more efficient productivity. The efficient turnaround we’re now seeing has freed up the devices to take on more, thus ensuring we’re maximising the immense potential of these devices. We’ve seen jobs that might have previously taken two and a half hours now turnaround in half an hour.

Those sums alone prove we’ve made the right investment.

“Our long standing partnership with Canon is testament to the relationship we have with the team we work with. We visited the Birmingham Customer Experience Centre on a number of occasions during the process to experience the devices for ourselves. The team allowed us to run print jobs and really push the devices to their limits while we were there, giving us peace of mind that we knew what we were going to be getting once it arrived onsite. We truly believe

QUICK PRINT PRO • NOVEMBER 2023

this investment demonstrates our commitment to both growth and innovation in the print industry, and most importantly ensures we’re providing our customers with the best solutions possible.”

With the imagePRESS V1350 and imagePRESS V700, The Printroom Group benefits from high quality digital colour press technology that can deliver high levels of automation. The deal also includes the integration of cutting edge technology from Duplo International and Plockmatic Group. In fact, the imagePRESS V1350 series boosts productivity and efficiency levels, with mass printing, at speeds of 135ppm. As a result, The Printroom Group has seen a 30% increase in print speed, with staff reporting they can complete tasks five times quicker than before.

Duncan Smith, Country Director, Production at Canon UK & Ireland adds: “We’re delighted to continue working with The Printroom Group in their drive to grow and evolve their business. As a valued customer in the production print space, we understand their business needs and are thrilled to see they’re getting the most out of our latest technology with all important faster turnaround times for customers, whilst delivering the highest quality prints that have set the benchmark for the industry.” www.canon.co.uk

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NEWS

SIGN ARCHITECTS BUILDS AN INCREASED CUSTOMER BASE Sign Architects has introduced a large format laser cutter from Trotec to extend production capabilities and increase business potential. The London based signage consultancy and material wholesaler are a one stop shop for signage and branding. Offering a consultative approach to signage, graphics and more, the company was founded in 2015 and has grown exponentially to work with market leading clients including Malabar Gold & Diamonds, Paris St Germain, Elie Saab, Bang & Olufsen and Creams Desserts.

GROWING BUSINESS DEMAND

Serving clients across the UK, Sign Architects offers services including letter cutting, illuminated signage, interior signs, vehicle livery and graphic printing. Client satisfaction is at the heart of their company ethos, so the team are committed to

pushing the boundaries of innovative design as well as investing in the best equipment to ensure a high quality and commercially viable service for any sized project.

Director Yusuf Rab and CEO Imran Haidar noticed an increase in the demand for laser cut work.

Lacking an in-house solution and keen to meet the growing number of sales enquiries of this nature, Yusuf decided to expand the company’s production

BLUESTAR PRINT FINISHERS CHOOSES HORIZON BQ-500 ICE BINDER The Ilford print finisher replaced a Horizon BQ-470 with the next generation perfect binder. With an eye on the future Lee Harvey, Bluestar Print Finishers Managing Director, decided on the solution for a number of reasons including its ability to work with a Horizon HT-300 iCE Trimmer.

“It was a no brainer,” he said.

“We don’t have room for the trimmer at the moment but it was important for us to have that in the planning. We also chose it to manage our workload more efficiently. With the PUR binder we had to wait to batch all the jobs together but with the Horizon BQ-500 iCE Binder we can turn it off after a job and then come back to it later on. The biggest thing for us is time savings. Previously if we wanted to complete a job by 9am we would have had to come in at 4am to turn on the old binder and clean up the PUR glue before we could run the job. Now we have a timer on the BQ-500 iCE Binder so it can warm up before we get in and be ready to go. It is a game changer.”

He continues: “It has gone beyond our expectations. We can start the glue where we want to as we have more control over the sheet.

This reduces glue wastage and saves money. We also don’t need to do a wash up which saves time.

For some jobs we are saving as much as a day on production. For example, we have a 15,000 run job that we complete in batches of 5,000. We can set up the binder much faster and save time on the cutting, collating and binding.”

The Horizon BQ-500 replaces a Horizon BQ-470 and Lee says: “When I first looked at perfect binders I did my due diligence. There was not another system out there that could touch the Horizon for what we needed it to do. We were

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mainly interested in small run litho and we wanted to stay in that market. The Horizon BQ-470 was unmatched at the time and we know the Horizon BQ-500 iCE Binder is too. We also know and trust Horizon systems and IFS. They have never let us down and we have always been very well looked after.”

The Horizon BQ-500 iCE Binder is the next generation of Horizon’s highly successful series of four clamp binders. It features cloud based iCE LiNK workflow that provides access to an intuitive easy to use dashboard. It reports real time production analysis for improved efficiency and profitability, remote update capabilities and scheduled maintenance resulting in less downtime. The information is accessible via smartphone, tablet or desktop PC and the software is designed for simple integration with MIS systems using open APIs. It enables up to the minute reportability and fully automated workflow using JDF/JMF data.

Concludes Lee: “We are always rammed with work but the BQ-500 iCE Binder has given us more control. There is more flow. Our production is more streamlined and running a lot smoother.”

Image shows — IFS’s Simon Cox with Lee Harvey, Bluestar Print Finishers Managing Director, in front of the Horizon BQ-500 iCE Binder www.ifsl.uk.com

facility to incorporate a laser cutting system, opting for a 200-watt SP3000 CO2 laser cutter from Trotec.

Increased enquiries and a competitive edge The SP3000 has been a turning point for Sign Architects, with the expanded production capabilities resulting in a 12% increase in new customers. Being the only service provider in their area to offer both CNC and laser work, Sign Architects fulfil on average 15 laser orders per week, and having the SP3000 means that they also pick up work from other signage manufacturers who don’t have laser technology.

With two distinct cutting systems, the team use each to their strength, the laser for acrylic work because it creates a polished edge while cutting, and the CNC for aluminium composite. The SP3000’s 200 watt laser source enables Sign Architects to effortlessly and accurately cut acrylic in thicknesses from 2mm up to 20 mm. The reduction in production steps has saved Sign Architects a significant amount of time which they pass on to customers through reduced lead times. Having the laser cutter allows Sign Architects to reduce the standard 7-10 day turnaround to just a couple of days if needed.

Sign Architects has noted that the laser offers near unlimited possibilities for the company, something which they are keen to explore and continue to develop. www.troteclaser.com

PROFILE OF THE MONTH: ASHGROVE

SPECIALIST SOLUTIONS FOR PRINTING AND PACKAGING

Over the last 20 years, Ashgrove has supplied quick print pros ever increasing quantities of print presentation media; wide and small format, label printing, laminating, Mastermac media, Fastbind, PicoFilm weather proof papers, shrink wrapping, automatic finishing equipment plus hands on cutting, gluing, stitching taping and ATG double sided transfer tape.

For best advice on the best finishing for your customers, call: 01779 470606 or email info@ashgrovetrading.com. www.ashgrovetrading.com

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

310gsm Greetings Card Stock The Most Premium Stock at the Best Price

Uncoated on the Inside

Smooth on the Outside route1print.co.uk/cards-invites | sales@route1print.co.uk | 0114 294 5026 |

NEW PRODUCTS

INKTEC LAUNCHES UV DTF PRINTER Adding to their more compact range of affordable printers, InkTec has launched a UV DTF Printer. Designed to broaden printing opportunities for printers operating in the printwear and promotion arena, the printer was first revealed at the recent Print Show at the NEC. Using ultraviolet curing technology, this printing approach enables designs to be easily transferred directly onto hard smooth objects, even onto irregular shapes. A combination of UV-curable ink and a special film creates designs that can be added to a variety of substrates including plastics, metal, board and more. With no need for weeding the image, users can simply press firmly and peel off the film. Ideal for adding designs to a myriad of promotional items.

The printer’s compact size, with the option for either a 60cm or 30cm print width makes it an accessible piece of kit which can easily be used integrated into existing operations. In addition,

InkTec offer specialist UV DTF Film and inks in CMYK, plus white and varnish. These use their experience of over 30 years developing and manufacturing inks to deliver vivid colours, creating striking graphics that can be easily applied.

Joey Kim, Managing Director of InkTec, said, “Building on the success of the compact DTF Printer and solutions launched earlier this year, it was a natural progression to also introduce a UV DTF Printer. It is an exciting time at InkTec, and we have been having conversations with a variety of people who can see the potential of what this printer can bring, some of whom were looking for a way to easily apply graphics without the challenge of having multiple application stages. As the UV technology applies the varnish at the same time during the printing process, the result is a glossy, strong finish which quickly adheres to the medium it is being applied to.”

Priced from £10,600 for the 30cm printer, the printers are supplied with a manufacturer’s warranty, full maintenance instructions and full training on the day of installation by InkTec’s dedicated engineers. www.inktec-europe.com

WORLD’S FIRST B2 PERFECTING SHEETFED AQUEOUS-BASED INKJET PRESS Ricoh has announced the debut of the RICOH Pro Z75 digital press, the first B2 perfecting (auto-duplexing) sheetfed inkjet platform using aqueous ink, accelerating the shift from offset to digital with higher print quality, faster turnaround times and fewer demands on staff following successful in-market testing. The press will be officially available for public orders in EMEA from November 2023, with orders for immediate placement expected based on strong interest across international markets.

In June 2022, Heeter Printing — an American full service secure marketing provider for highly demanding industries like insurance and retail — teamed up with Ricoh to serve as the official beta site for the award winning B2 sheetfed inkjet press platform.

Kirk Schlecker, President, Heeter Printing, comments: “The RICOH Pro Z75 is like a multitool for our operation. It combines the image quality, efficiency, print size, substrate flexibility and economics that allow us to say ‘yes’ to more jobs, and deliver a better experience for our clients. With the support Ricoh provides and their commitment to stand behind their products, the RICOH Pro Z75 makes a compelling case for any print service provider looking to achieve what they once could have only imagined.”

The RICOH Pro Z75 delivers the advantages of a sheetfed platform with the low running costs and high productivity of inkjet. It offers print speeds of up to 4,500 sheets per hour (SPH) in straight printing or 2,250 SPH in duplex/perfecting printing. Stainless steel piezo print heads bring 1,200 dpi native resolution at all speeds with four colour (CMYK) pigment based inks, while the proprietary drying system ensures high quality results ready for immediate finishing. The RICOH Pro Z75 also expands substrate flexibility, handling uncoated, inkjet treated and offset coated media up to 400gsm with a maximum sheet size of 585mm x 750mm.

“As shorter runs and increasing demand for data driven communications push Print Service Providers to adapt their production strategies, we are helping them lever the latest hardware, software and data to become indispensable to their clients with the RICOH Pro Z75 as a powerful example of that commitment in action,” said Eef de Ridder, Vice President, Graphic Communications, Ricoh Europe. “The result is a new level of performance that enables easier, faster and more profitable production of applications like direct mail, postcards, marketing materials and other commercial print work.”

Beyond the high print speeds and automatic duplexing capabilities, the press incorporates significant automation solutions and an intuitive control panel to

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reduce the need for operator intervention and improve shift efficiency. A heavy duty, offset like build quality and advanced, durable printheads are designed to maximise press uptime and availability. Attention to detail from the air assisted sheet feeding that minimises feed and paper transport issues, to a configurable high capacity stacker that delivers accurate, flush paper stacking, streamlines the entire job process.

Designed for print businesses managing high volumes of jobs that require reliable uptime and significant throughput capacity, the new production inkjet platform is backed by Ricoh’s Professional Services programme. Clients will have access to Ricoh’s best in class proprietary workflow automation solutions, such as RICOH TotalFlow BatchBuilder and RICOH Supervisor, plus the EDGE business development consultancy service and full service marketing solutions such as MarcomCentral, to maximise return on investment and business value. www.ricoh.com

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

Splendorgel A range of ultra-fine papers and boards with a smooth, velvety surface.

Splendorgel is available in two stunning shades, Extra White and Avorio, for use on HP Indigo, colour laser and litho print technologies; the perfect solution for wedding stationery, menus and much more.

Contact your local Premier branch or visit www.paper.co.uk for more information and samples.

Premier Paper & Materials, Delivered by Experts

www.paper.co.uk

NEW PRODUCTS

NEW MIMAKI UV PRINTERS Hybrid Services has announced the launch of two new UV printers that extend Mimaki’s popular 100 and 330 series product ranges — the UJV100160Plus and UCJV330-160. The new models deliver enhanced production benefits, providing customers with increased opportunities to extend their application range, whilst also utilising Mimaki’s proven UV technology to support a more sustainable future for the industry.

As UV inkjet printing trailblazers, Mimaki launched the world’s first UV printer with white ink in 2004 and has continued to expand and develop UV technologies that enable versatile, high quality sign and graphics printing. The introduction of its entry level 100 series and its more advanced 330 series printer range took Mimaki’s established platforms and applied these robust technologies to the needs of different market sectors and customers at different stages of their digital print business journey.

“The addition of these two new models presents an exciting opportunity for us, and there has been much anticipation around the arrival of the UCJV330-160,” states Hybrid’s Sales Director, Andrew Gregory. “The drive to lower running costs, increase productivity and offer Mimaki’s typically high levels of creativity will ensure a strong uptake.”

Arjen Evertse, General Manager Sales, Mimaki Europe, explained, “The pressing need to be more sustainable, as well as the recent pressures associated with rising energy prices has accelerated the industry wide need to adopt UV technology. UV printing requires considerably less energy throughout the printing process than other technologies, not least due to the fact that LED UV inks cure instantly. This both improves the printer’s environmental impact but also saves on production costs and delivery times.”

“At Mimaki, we are committed to supporting the move to UV to ensure more sustainable, efficient print production, future proofing the businesses of our valued customers and of course, ensuring we are working towards improving sustainability for all our sakes. The UJV100-160Plus and UCJV330-160 are the latest results of our efforts to expand the UV printing options available to print service providers, whilst also delivering the unparalleled benefits that are synonymous with Mimaki technologies.”

The two printers are compatible with Mimaki’s new cloud based printer status monitoring tool for all Mimaki products — PICT. Available for customers to download, PICT improves the efficiency of Mimaki customers’ print operations and production management by giving them the power to monitor the operational status and performance of their printers from a PC or mobile device.

The printer operation and ink usage results are captured for each Mimaki printer in production or within designated groups, providing customers with improved ink inventory management and maintenance and production planning.

NEW MIMAKI UCJV330-160 1.6M UV PRINTER/CUTTER

The new UCJV330-160 integrated printer/cutter offers versatile LED UV roll-to-roll inkjet printing with significantly improved productivity and image quality.

With a production speed of 28m2/h in four colour configuration or 18m2/h with white and/or clear inks, the UCJV330-160 enables users to offer impressive

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turnaround times and produce more jobs with increased efficiency. In addition, high print speeds can be achieved with high output quality, thanks to Mimaki’s newly developed ink firing technologythat improves colour reproduction in high density areas even in high speed output mode.

The UCJV330-160 has been developed with application and media flexibility in mind to support Mimaki customers with the move to more environmentally friendly substrates. The printer is equipped with white and clear inks as standard, and users can print high quality images on traditional media used for outdoor sign graphics applications, as well as translucent, transparent, and coloured materials, including PET, polyurethane and other resin films, textiles and uncoated paper.

This media flexibility combined with the option to offer 2.5D print, watermarks or five layer printing further supports businesses with their goals to provide customers with a more diverse and high value product range that will increase their competitive edge. Being an integrated printer/cutter, the UCJV330-160 is also equipped with advanced features for contour cutting to deliver stickers, decals and labels.

NEW MIMAKI UJV100160PLUS 1.6M UV PRINTER

The affordable UJV100-160Plus model features new capabilities and has been designed to consume an exceptionally low amount of power. At just 0.5kW, the UJV100-160Plus consumes less than half the power of ecosolvent and latex/resin printers on the market(2), helping print businesses to reduce running

costs and their CO2 emissions.

New functionalities of the UJV100-160Plus have been incorporated to expand its range of applications as well as improve operational and cost efficiencies. A new ink saving function reduces ink consumption by up to 50% while maintaining the colour balance of the printed design, with ink reduction levels set by the operator using RasterLink7 software, removing the need for specialised knowledge or equipment for colour adjustment.

A new function included in the printer pulls back the printed substrate to enable up to three layer printing, extending the application possibilities and allowing colour white colour or white colour clear printing, giving more flexibility to offer a wide range of applications, for increased creative effect or to add value to applications such as window graphics.

The UJV100-160Plus also links seamlessly with Mimaki’s CG-AR cutting plotters, enabling users to output cut data directly from RasterLink7 to the plotter, improving workflow efficiencies and linking the printing and cutting even if the output PC does not have design software.

Both models will be available through Hybrid’s network of authorised Mimaki Partners, with demo machines arriving at Hybrid very soon. “We look forward to inviting prospective customers to view these exciting new products in the very near future,” concludes Gregory. “Offering the latest in high quality output, they also deliver on Mimaki sustainable goals and will undoubtedly be a popular addition to our product line-up.”

(1) Patent pending. (2) Based on Mimaki research

www.hybridservices.co.uk

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

NEW PRODUCTS

CANON LAUNCH NEW IMAGEPROGRAF TM

By utilising all colour pigment ink which is also water resistant, the printers can produce eye catching posters and point of sale items that attract attention and do not fade easily over a long period of time. Customers printing posters can produce borderless prints using the full roll width, which removes the time-consuming task of trimming the margins after printing.

IMPROVED DESIGN AND USER INTERFACE

Canon has introduced its new imagePROGRAF TM series of A0+ and A1+ printers for producers of technical and promotional large format printing applications in sectors from architecture, engineering, construction and manufacturing to retail, hospitality and education.

The portfolio incorporates five models — the TM-355, TM-350 and TM-340 for A0+ prints and the TM-255 and TM-240 for A1+ output — all featuring a newly formulated, vibrant magenta ink.

The range is designed to meet diverse printing needs, from CAD construction and design drawings to retail and restaurant posters and school classroom displays. The refined body design and small footprint ensures they fit within virtually any office or retail space, even when combined with the optional large format scanner.

The imagePROGRAF TM series features a newly developed L-COA PRO II image processing engine, which enables quick start-up.

The TM-355/350 offers top printing speeds of up to 3.2 pages per minute (PPM), about 28% faster than previous models,[1] ensuring greater productivity for time-critical prints.

GREATER VIBRANCY EVEN ON UNCOATED PAPER

The ink enhancements for the imagePROGRAF TM series deliver greater vibrancy even on uncoated paper. The newly designed image processing table and optimised magenta ink ensure excellent red colour development for vivid reproduction and sharper contrasts. This equates to more clarity when highlighting corrections and revisions in CAD drawings or displaying critical technical annotations.

The new flat top design makes it easier to switch paper rolls, and the printers automatically detect and display paper type [2] and estimate how much paper is remaining. With colour calibration included as standard, these labour saving features contribute to greater operational efficiency.

The large touch screen panel shows the paper width and type, as well as the remaining roll paper and ink levels at a glance. In addition, it can be tilted to adjust the angle for easy viewing according to the user’s point of view and position.

The design also helps to reduce operating noise across the series up to about 39 decibels (dB) in certain models, which is approximately 1/3 lower [3] than their predecessors, making it suitable for any working environment.

Duncan Smith, Country Director, Production at Canon UK & Ireland says: “Setting a new bar for compact multi-use large format printers, the new imagePROGRAF TM series creates incredibly vibrant prints, with a small footprint and less noise. Whatever your company size, however restricted your space, you can now conveniently produce a wide variety of print applications which would traditionally have to be outsourced, from CAD drawings to posters and retail POS materials, improving productivity and efficiency without compromising quality.”

PROGRESS ON SUSTAINABILITY

Canon is committed to its efforts to reduce waste and environmental impact throughout all of its operations. The imagePROGRAF TM series has achieved a ‘Gold’ product rating under the U.S. EPEAT (Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool) Registry, the highest level of registration in the field of imaging equipment products.[4] Expanded polystyrene foam has also been eliminated from the products’ packing materials in favour of full cardboard packaging.

INTEGRATED SOFTWARE MAKES IT EASY TO CREATE WELL DESIGNED POSTERS AND FLYERS

The TM series printers are supplied with Direct Print Plus software which means multiple files in different formats can be ordered to print in a batch with a simple drag and drop operation, helping users to print all types of drawing efficiently. For promotional applications, customers can use Canon’s PosterArtist web application to create original poster and flyer designs by choosing from a wide range of free templates to suit their needs.

[1] A1 landscape uncoated paper drawing, fastest print setting. The time from the start of printing until the paper is cut. Against “imagePROGRAF TM-305/300” (released November 2018). [2] Manual selection of paper type required for first time operation. [3] Comparing sound energy when printing on standard uncoated paper, line drawing and text and in standard mode. The conventional model in the same class is “imagePROGRAF TM-300/200” (released in November 2018). [4] EPEAT is an environmental assessment system established by GEC (the Green Electronics Council), American NPO, for the purpose of developing and promoting the market for environmentally friendly products. It recognises factors such as product longevity, energy conservation and packaging.

www.canon.co.uk

NEW FASTBIND PUREVA SMART PERFECT BINDER

Fastbind Pureva Smart is a compact and safe semi-automatic perfect binder able to bind both soft and hard cover books up to A3 portrait.

Thanks to its electronic temperature control and patented interchangeable glue tank system, Fastbind Pureva Smart can use different types of book binding hotmelt glues, including polyurethane (PUR) and metallocene (MPO) for maximum binding strength with digital coated stocks.

Run the Pureva Smart along with the Fastbind Casematic A46z to make your customer hardcover books and much more.

Looking for a more cost-effective perfect binding option? Fastbind Pureva Neo is a manual version of the Smart. Existing Fastbind equipment users can

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order supplies online.

Ashgrove stock all popular Fastbind consumables for making both hard cover and soft cover books, including, perfect binding adhesives, DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE SCAN OR CLICK HERE tacking paper, end sheets, and adhesive mounting sheets.

To discuss how the Fastbind range can work for you, get in touch with the friendly Ashgrove team. www.ashgrovetrading.com • 01779 470606 • info@ ashgrovetrading.com

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

#WEAREVIVID

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PIXEL PROPHET

PIXEL PROPHET

TAKING IT TO THE MAX

October was a big month for Adobe. For the last twenty years, it’s that time in the calendar when it previews all the new stuff and teases things to come. Martin Christie is on the hunt for more tools.

I

t’s just that this year, the hype seems to have been notched up considerably.

Make no mistake, Adobe is under pressure. The established industry giant has the new kids on the block trying to kick the door down. And the cause of all this, of course, is Artificial Intelligence. For most of the last two decades, big A has been able to stride forward confident that it held all the important cards in digital imaging, illustration and design. But recent technological advances have shaken that dominance, so Adobe MAX (nothing to do with fizzy drinks) had an extra sense of urgency amid all the glossy presentations this year.

In this cyber world, it is at least reassuring that Adobe feels the need to address a live audience in a theatre rather than at arm’s length online, but by its very nature, the massed guests are rather partisan — no chance of heckling here among the faithful.

As a result, the gathering takes on an atmosphere somewhere between a religious revival and an American election rally — at least without the silly hats and moronic placards. Although they might have been forgiven for introducing a little Trumpstyle, let’s ‘Make Adobe Great Again’ in the headlines.

You can view any or all of the day’s content online if you can bear to put up with the adrenaline-fuelled presentations on stage and theatrical reactions from the seats. Alternatively, you can find the parts that interest you in numerous more palatable slices if you care to wade through the obvious promotional fog that search engines now create.

The dilemma for Adobe is that despite its global reach, it is vulnerable to the socalled lone wolf — some geeky teenager in a back bedroom who will stumble upon an algorithm that will stand the world on its head. Traditionally, it relied on spotting these developers and snapping them up so their talents were used for the benefit of the whole company and the many programs that spawned from the original digital editing creation. Now, there are plenty of speculators who will throw funds at something that looks promising, even if they don’t understand it, in the hope that it might just be the Holy Grail.

Adobe’s approach, but its nature, is more measured, fuelling AI with its own resource 14

of licenced stock images rather than as some others, and most of our customers do, plundering the internet. This policy is described as ethical, but it is equally pragmatic as no one is likely to sue Aunty Mary for that nice picture of a kitten she found for a birthday card, but Adobe is too rich a target to ignore.

One of the interesting snippets I picked up on was that while up until now, the generative fill library has been free to use, from November, there will be a credits system on image usage similar to that with Adobe Stock.

Of course, not much of this will be relevant to us in the print business, but 2024 does have some very useful updates for those of us using Photoshop as a daily tool. In order to find them, you may have to fast forward through numerous ‘what’s new’ tutorials to get to the important bits. In fact, you can almost judge the value of the video by the priority given to some of the new features.

DIGGING FOR GOLD

One which seems to take the lead in many and can often occupy half the lecture is called lens blur. Why it grabs so much attention is a puzzle, as there have been several ways of softening unwanted detail in the background for years. But it had also been greeted with a certain amount of scorn and derision as proper photographers have been doing this in camera for over a century. The fact that a computer can now do it when it has access to detailed information about the lens and capture settings is hardly groundbreaking.

If your tutorial majors with this gimmick to coin a phrase, move along, please; there is nothing to see here.

Like many overblown features of AI, it is simply part of a trend characterised by something else I picked up on from

one of the Adobe MAX sermons — the democratisation of creativity. Now, what does that actually mean — that anyone can be a Van Gogh or a Beethoven? We already live in a media world where any non-entity can be a celebrity or, worse, an ‘influencer’.

But to be truly creative, I think you do need some element of talent, or am I just old and cynical? I will let you decide, but I’m sure you already suffer from customers who think they are artistic geniuses. Looks like more are coming, empowered by AI. But it’s not all bad news; underneath the gloss and glitter, there is some real gold.

Two outstanding features have been added, which will be a big boost to improving print workflow, and they are much more useful than any eye-catching gizmo.

Generative Expand — not fill — addresses a daily task in changing the size and shape of an image to fit the size of a print, whether simply to add bleed around the edges or physically change its dimensions and orientation — portrait into landscape, for example. If it’s just a solid colour that’s required, it’s not a problem. More recently, Content Aware became a handy tool for creating those extra inches. But even with manual control over the sample zone, Content Aware can be a little unpredictable and worse if you use the crop tool to expand the canvas size and use that function without manual supervision.

Generative Expand uses the crop tool in the same way to extend the bounds of the image, but using a smart generation of AI can create a much more realistic panorama, less prone to repetition and random pixels.

You can see the dramatic difference between the two in the picture of the trials bike going through a mud splash, which starts out square to suit social media but then is extended to more of a landscape to NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

PIXEL PROPHET

fill a space. With Content Aware, rocks and tree trunks have been obviously cloned and thrown into the mix, whereas GenEx does a pretty good job of creating a whole new but complementary larger landscape.

As ever, the cautionary note is that it’s not going to be perfect with every image.

How it interprets the content will depend on what it is given, which is still down to the judgement of a processor rather than human intuition. So, keep the manual override options always on hand if you need to take a step backwards.

My new favourite tool, however, is the Colour Picker. This has all the electronic assistance but with full human control.

Last month, I illustrated how I brought an old colour transparency back to life using the masking tool and colour adjustment to enhance some of the elements in the picture. This new tool does a similar job but makes the task even easier.

There have always been colour selection tools in Photoshop, of course, but isolating and adjusting colours has always been a bit problematic just because of the difficulty of isolating one pixel hue from another.

The basic colour tools in Photoshop are just that, basic, and have remained virtually unchanged over the years. More recently, the Colour Mixer was introduced into Lightroom and then into the Camera Raw Filter.

The advantage of the Colour Mixer is that rather than the simple control of CMYK or RGB, the Mixer has eight colours, adding Orange, Green, Aqua and Purple to the available gamut. Each of these can be adjusted in three different ways: by Hue, which is the actual colour; Saturation, the amount of that colour; and Luminance, which is the intensity of the colour emitted from it and often the most important for print.

This was already a game changer for me as I do a lot of artists’ Fine Art prints that have been scanned or photographed. However, they have been turned into digital content, and there is always some corner of the colour range that is just tantalisingly out of reach with ink and paper. While the Colour Mixer gave me a lot of control of output, unless I used the masking tool, the effects were spread across the whole image to one degree or another. You might get the blue of the sky right, but any cyan content in other QUICK PRINT PRO • NOVEMBER 2023

Content Aware – cloning surround detail

places would just have slipped away.

The Colour Picker is like a smart missile targeting exactly the right spot and having the same adjustments of Hue, Saturation and Luminance, as well as range control so you can further define how far you want the colour reach to go. In the example of the four blue strips, you can see the difference between the two — you can adjust the individual blues without changing any of the others. Simple.

The caution is that it is simple if you have a perfect file to work with. Unfortunately, so much of what we have to deal with is so much less than perfect, and this technology’s limitation, as ever, is the input.

Generative Expand – intelligently filling detail

If you’ve got lots of pixels, you’ve got lots of colour information you can play with, and it makes it a lot easier for the techy side to do its magic.

Without enough of those little squares, even the smartest artificial brain is going to struggle. It will always produce something — it has to — but it won’t always be what you want or expect. Certainly, it probably won’t be what the customer expects, which is why you need all the help that Adobe can provide.

There are likely to be a few more things I have yet to discover, things certainly more useful to the professional than Lens Blur, so I will keep you posted as I find them.

Colour Picker

Colour Mixer

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PEOPLE IN PRINT

PLOCKMATIC APPOINT JOHN ELLIOT VP MARKETING Plockmatic Group has announced the appointment of John Elliot to the position of Vice President of Group Marketing. This strategic hire comes at a pivotal moment as Plockmatic Group continues to gain traction in its global expansion efforts.

John brings a wealth of experience to the role, with over 17 years in B2B marketing. Most recently, he served as the Marketing Manager at 3nine AB, where he was responsible for overseeing international marketing strategies and operations.

He also held a seat on the senior management team.

In his new capacity at Plockmatic Group, John will focus on the development and implementation of comprehensive corporate marketing strategies. He will translate the company’s business objectives into actionable marketing plans and oversee all marketing initiatives. His leadership will be instrumental in continuously elevating Plockmatic Group and its brand in the marketplace.

Comment from John Elliot: “I am deeply honoured and excited to join the Plockmatic Group team. I look forward to contributing to the company’s global expansion and strengthening its diverse brand portfolio.”

Plockmatic Group, based in Stockholm Sweden, is a global supplier of finishing solutions to the print and mailing businesses. With over 40 years of experience, the company has built a solid reputation as an efficient and flexible provider of finishing solutions. www.plockmaticgroup.com

Following the announcement earlier this year that Graphtec GB had become the UK distribution partner for Mutoh Europe’s sign and display and direct to object UV LED printer ranges, the company has now announced the appointment of Lawrence Hebron as UK Product Manager.

In addition, Graphtec has appointed a technical team to handle installations, support and engineering requirements. James Allshorn, Steve Dabrowski and Jaydon Clarke are the new technical engineers, and Brian Pickup will handle software support and service callout management.

Lawrence joins Graphtec with a wealth of experience in large format printing,

having worked previously with Spandex, Signmaster and Roland DG. “Lawrence has a proven track record in sales and business development. His deep knowledge of the market, coupled with his passion for innovation, makes him the ideal candidate to lead Graphtec GB’s efforts in promoting Mutoh printers to our reseller channel,” says Tom Kneale, Graphtec GB’s Managing Director.

He continues, “Distributing Mutoh products is a huge development for Graphtec. While we are already widely recognised across the UK as a top supplier of most products to the wide format graphics production and sign-making industry, until now, we have not offered printers. The decision to distribute Mutoh has been made after extensive research, and this includes the ability to appoint the best people to lead this for us. Having someone of Lawrence’s experience and calibre is critical to helping us develop a robust and vibrant reseller channel for these products.” www.graphtecgb.co.uk

ARTSYSTEMS APPOINTS NEW SUPPLIES MANAGER

TANCIA LTD FOCUS ON QUALITY WITH RENATA VEGH

LAWRENCE HEBRON JOINS GRAPHTEC GB

ArtSystems has announced that Zac Ambler has been promoted to the role of Supplies Account Manager.

Zac already has 18 months experience within the ArtSystems’ Sales Administration Team and is familiar with the company’s products and reseller customers. His appointment will take the specialist wide format supplies team to a total of seven people.

This increase in the supplies team reflects the ongoing growth of the business and the need for specialist sales account managers. These are key roles as they ensure ArtSystems’ resellers source the right solutions for their customers to meet the demands of specific applications and requirements.

On Zac’s promotion, Tom Goddard, Supplies Division Manager at ArtSystems, comments: “I’ve no doubt whatsoever that Zac will continue to excel as he has done in his previous role within ArtSystems.

“He is a great colleague and is highly respected amongst our customers for the help he has given them in his Sales Admin role. His passion and enthusiasm will be a great asset in his new position” www.artsystems.co.uk

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Tancia Ltd (trading as The Pen Warehouse and Snap Products), introduce their Quality Manager, Renata Vegh, to the industry.

Boasting over two decades of expertise in Quality Management, as well as a Master of Science in Materials Engineering, Renata has swiftly made her mark, introducing transformative changes to the company.

Her hands-on approach has already brought about pivotal changes, most notably, the seamless integration and achievement of their ISO 9001:2015 accreditation. The achievement of this accreditation has since improved overall quality management, increased efficiency, and enhanced customer satisfaction. “Adopting the ISO 9001 standard has allowed us, as an organisation, to systematically analyse our capabilities and plan corrective actions, fostering an environment of continuous improvement”, said Renata.

Beyond certifications, her prowess extends to her mastery in production and project oversight, keen market insights, streamlined process enhancements, and her commitment to Health, Safety, and Environmental risk management.

Renata, originally from Hungary, embarked on a new journey in her life in 2020 when she relocated to the United Kingdom. Leaving behind her homeland, she embraced the opportunities and challenges that came with this change. Since moving to the UK, she has further enhanced her expertise in Quality Management, through working with renowned companies such as Brompton Bicycles and McLaren. In her leisure time, Renata enjoys cooking, travelling, scuba-diving, and spending time with her friends and family. www.pens.co.uk • www.snapproducts.co.uk

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

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CHRISTMAS SPREAD

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End user customers demand top quality printed promotional presents that reflects their own standards. Diaries are a traditional and highly popular promotional gift item; Providing your customer with 365 days of advertising, raising their brand awareness all throughout the year.

Abbeygate customise diaries to your customers brand requirements, allowing you to tailor diaries to your customers individual promotional messaging.

Abbeygate diaries include the following as standard: Personal information page, year planners, a range of useful general information pages, UK and international holidays, ribbon markers, directory and notes section, UK and worldwide maps, London underground and UK rail map section in full colour, white paper diaries produced on FSC recycled paper.

Abbeygate can also add custom-printed CMYK pages to any of your customers’ notebooks and diaries, so you can have up to 24 sides of additional advertising or information added inside the book.

Time To Take Note: Plain stock white notebooks are print-ready for custom branding on the front — these have FSC recycled paper inside. Heat press, transfer DTF foil or labels, and experiment with what stands out best

for your process.

The tactile craftsmanship achieved, for example, the perimeter stitching, makes these promotional products feel good and last all year. With a shelf life of 366 days next year and our combined end-user customer base of more than eight million, who wouldn’t want to leap at this opportunity?

Lead times are typically 7 / 10 working days from artwork approval for branding to just the cover or 12 to 21 days with extra custom pages. www.abbeygatemanufacturing.com

SEASONAL SPECULATION BUG There is something going around, and yes, I think I’ve caught it.

I definitely have the marketing bug, and just in time for Christmas.

Well, we are going to spread this throughout our print shop customer base. They’ll thank me for it in the end when they are constantly reminded of our Colourfast Christmas cheer when seeing their gifted Bilbo bug on their PC, desk or coffee machine. Spread some cheer in print for just a few pence.

Thanks to Bilbo Bugs www.billbo.co.uk 01625 427010 sales@billbo.co.uk

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

CHRISTMAS SPREAD

QPP — making a seasonal song and dance about new products for Christmas

PRINT READY FOR CHRISTMAS Glistening Foils • Laminating Place Mats and Menus • Calendar Punching and Binding • Creasing Cards • Perforating Tickets Printers Mart have the kit for that…

01484 860 620 • info@printersmart.co.uk www.PrintersMart.co.uk

CHRISTMAS TREE-SHAPED T-SHIRT These printed gift compact T-shirts really create a buzz at any corporate event. If you choose GOTS organic cotton merchandise, you can also benefit from creating fascinating designs with direct-to garment printing with sustainable inks.

Promotional print for your customers and customers’ end users has never been so novel or so noel.

The fun starts when you simply just add water for the compressed printed t-shirt to rejuvenate into the original wearable size.

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Tel: 0151 259 1221 peter@promotionalmugs.co.uk

Spoil your customers with a Secret Santa present that really is the balls.

Yes, new products are afoot and waiting for you to countdown to Christmas with a toe-warming advent calendar.

To be original this year, get to know Kingsley for a tradeonly choice of festive promotional print. www.wearekingly.com

YOUR ONE-STOP CHRISTMAS SHOP GET PERSONAL THIS CHRISTMAS WITH THE RNLI Quick print pros do love to promote print at every given opportunity and often buy their younger family members personalised books with their names in.

The QPP editorial team are pleased to recommend the RNLI Big Christmas Rescue personalised storybook. This exciting, personalised tale of Christmas courage gives children a magical introduction to the work of the RNLI’s volunteer lifesavers.

The sale of these unique presents raises important funds for the RNLI, a lasting gift that encourages reading and is an example of what is now possible in our industry today. All this in proper tactile print your family will enjoy getting to grips with.

Just add a name: It’s a wet and windy night before Christmas, and most boys and girls are tucked up in bed.

But when Santa crashes his sleigh, who can he call for help — and who will go to the rescue? This book puts a child you know at the heart of an exciting sea rescue.

Make your little one the star: The A4 book features

illustrations by the award-winning Hannah Cumming. Hannah says: “It was such a pleasure illustrating this book, not least because it’s the sort of lovely, heart-warming Christmas story I used to read. But also because it was an opportunity to celebrate the vital work the brave volunteers of the RNLI carry out all year. They are just normal people being heroes, role models for children and adults alike.’

THE PERFECT GIFT FOR ANY CHILD

Relatives or friends of the family can order the book and specify the child’s name, gender and skin tone. Then, he or she will be the star of a story that also features Santa, Rudolph and an RNLI lifeboat crew. https://shop.rnli.org/collections/books

OPEN FOR 365 DAYS LAST YEAR AND NEXT HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO ALL OUR EXHIBITORS AND VISITORS

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QUICK PRINT PRO • NOVEMBER 2023

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COVER STORY

ANTALIS

KEAYKOLOUR COLLECTION

Antalis has announced the re-launch of Keaykolour following its acquisition of the paper brand from former supplier, Arjowiggins.

S

ince owning the brand, Antalis has worked closely with former manufacturing experts to produce a refreshed range of papers with exceptional quality, made to the exacting standards for which the brand is famed.

With 45 shades to choose from, Keaykolour offers one of the largest ranges of coloured papers on the market.

The new Keaykolour collection comprises uncoated papers, boards and matching envelopes with a natural touch and

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sophisticated colour palette.

Paper shades have been perfectly matched for the nine colour families within the collection, which range from pastels to brights and halftones to intense, allowing a variety of mix and match possibilities.

Consistency of colour is assured thanks to the use of 100% fresh fibre pulp, which also provides the strength and rigidity to support higher technical capabilities for finishing and converting.

A long time favourite of the creative

community, Keaykolour’s wide range of papers and boards — with its chromatically rich colour palette — is perfect for endless creative applications, from corporate identity to luxury packaging.

The updated Keaykolour range is now available in a broad range of weights, from 120gsm to 450gsm. The range also offers options for dry toner and HP Indigo, and the full collection is suitable for embossing, letterpress and other demanding print techniques. To enable colour matching for a brand, or to create a unique colour, bespoke makings are also available upon enquiry.

Sales Manager for Creative Papers at Antalis, Vicky Weatherington, comments: “Keaykolour has been a hugely popular choice for designers and creatives for all kinds of print projects for many years now.

We’re delighted to offer continuity of the prestigious brand with an impressive array of colours, lovely tactile feel and improved colour consistency and technical capacity.” www.antalis.co.uk

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

PAPER CHASE

FEDRIGONI REVAMPS MATERICA AND WOODSTOCK Fedrigoni Group, the producer of specialty papers for premium packaging, publishing and graphics, as well as self-adhesive labelling products, has launched the latest swatches for their ranges of uncoated recycled papers Materica and Woodstock. Both align with the latest colour trends, reflecting the modern need to reconnect with nature.

The latest swatches include additional features not seen before, with the Materica swatch showcasing four new shades, and Woodstock including grammages for folding boxes. The new colour palettes available with both swatches align with the latest colour hues which remain in keeping with the range.

First launched in 2018, Materica has been revamped and is now available in 14 warm shades, all from 120gsm to 360gsm. The distinct bulkiness of the range inspired the name, as Materica is Italian for the English word ‘material’.

The pulp coloured paper and boards are made with a blend of 25% recycled materials, 25% pure virgin fibres, 10% cotton fibres, 40% CTMP fibres, all FSC certified. The earthy, rustic Mediterranean colours are reflected in the rough texture given by the cotton fibres providing a rich tactile and visual experience, and created to give an elevated feel to both premium packaging and book covers because of its print definition and foldability.

Woodstock - now with a grammage ideal for folding boxes - is a range of uncoated papers and boards, made with 80% recycled waste fibres and 20% FSC certified virgin fibres. The collection is available in pulp coloured, soft pastel shades, and unlike Materica, Woodstock is smooth to the touch with a unique retro and nostalgic feel.

Ian Braithwaite at Fedrigoni commented: “Materica and Woodstock have

become iconic ranges from Fedrigoni, and we wanted to create greater features for our customers to choose from. Each range offers unique attributes which can be applied across various forms including packaging, menus and books.

As we move towards a greener future we’re proud that our premium ranges are embracing both virgin and recycled fibres, helping to ensure Fedrigoni remains committed to our efforts and remain experts in the print and paper industry without compromising on our environmental values.”

New Woodstock and Materica swatches are available now. www.fedrigoni.com

TWO SIDES GLOBAL ANTI-GREENWASH CAMPAIGN Since the campaign began in 2010, globally, Two Sides has successfully challenged over 1075 organisations that subject their customers to repeated greenwashing messages which are damaging to the paper, print and mailing industry.

With huge pressures on the economy; banks, telecom providers, utility companies and even governmental organisations are increasingly focused on switching their customers from paper to digital services to cut costs. All too often their customer communications attempt to mask these cost-saving efforts, justifying the switch with unfounded environmental marketing appeals such as “Go Green — Go Paperless” and “Choose e-billing and help save a tree.” Recent consumer survey results from Two Sides 2023 ‘Trend Tracker’ report, reveals that 55% of European consumers believe environmental arguments from companies to switch to digital communications are misleading and are about reducing costs.

“Not only are these greenwash claims in breach of established environmental marketing rules, but they are hugely damaging to an industry which has a solid and continually improving environmental record,” says Two Sides Europe Managing Director Jonathan Tame. “Far from ‘saving trees,’ a healthy market for forest products such as paper encourages the long term growth of forests through sustainable forest management. Many of the organisations we engage are surprised to learn that European forests have actually been growing by 1,500 football pitches every day.”

Globally, Two Sides has engaged over 2100 organisations making misleading statements about paper. So far, over 1075 of them have removed such statements from their communications and Two Sides continues to engage and inform the remaining organisations. The organisations were located

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throughout Europe, North and South America, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

In Europe, to date, 682 companies have removed unsubstantiated claims about paper, including Dunhelm, British Gas, Intermarche, American Express and Sparebanken Vest, to name a few.

“It remains vital that greenwash is challenged to ensure that the industry’s great environmental record is recognised and that the livelihoods of thousands of industry employees, as well as print, paper and postage volumes, are not damaged by the spread of misleading and opportunistic greenwash marketing,” Tame says.

Because of the huge reach of some of these greenwashing organisations, their unsubstantiated claims have a damaging effect on consumer perceptions of paper and threaten a sector that employs over 640,000 people in more than 112,000 European businesses. The financial impact of greenwash on the paper, print and mailing industry is of global concern if these messages continue without challenge. Research conducted by Two Sidesand Censuswide in 2021,found that in Europe alone, greenwashing threatens the loss of €337 million of value annually to the paper, print and mailing industry.

The Anti-greenwash Campaign continues to be a priority for TwoSides, and we will continue to urge companies to reject the use of unsubstantiated and misleading environmental claims about going paperless in all of their communications.

“We are grateful for the cooperation of the hundreds of organisations that have changed or eliminated greenwashing claims from their messaging, and we are also thankfull for the many industry stakeholders and members of the public who send Two Sides examples of greenwash, ”Tame concludes. greenwash@twosides.info

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

An exciting new range of sustainable metallized paperboard products developed for digital print production • A foil board substrate rather than a selective foil embellishment • No limitations in the amount, size, complexity or number of foil colours that can be created at the same time.

• Works perfectly on dry toner, inkjet and HP digital presses.

• Proven to run at commercial speeds with no build-up of static.

• Allows in-line foil embellishment with existing digital press.

Please contact your local Denmaur office for further information, swatches, plain and printed samples or visit www.denmaur.com

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It is a certified plastic free product on a Carbon Balanced board substrate. It’s completely sustainable and 100% recyclable!

SHOWTIME

POWER OF PRINT SEMINAR The Power of Print seminar returns to Stationers’ Hall, St Paul’s, London on Tuesday 7th November 2023, featuring a fantastic line up of 10 industry experts to share their insight, knowledge and experience.

The event, organised by Two Sides and the BPIF in partnership with Canon and Fedrigoni, has established itself as a leading platform for knowledge and inspiration on the effectiveness, sustainability and unparalleled creative potential of print media.

SPEAKER SUMMARY

• Henry Coutinho-Mason — Global lecturer and publisher on AI (Artificial Intelligence) — Opportunities and challenges AI will bring for the industry — Copy of his latest book given to all attendees.

• Maja Kjellberg — Ikea Packaging Development Leader — Ikea’s sustainable packaging strategy.

• Simon Heppner — CEO Net Zero Now — What is Net Zero, and what effective actions can your business take.

• Mark Shayler — Global lecturer, author and brand consultant on sustainability.

• Anna Papagrigoraki — Sustainability Director CEPI (Confederation of Paper Industries) — changing EU Packaging Legislation and impact for producers.

• Mathew Faulkner — Marketing Director Canon — Targeted digital print for maximum brand impact.

• Mark Davies — Managing Director Whistl — changing data and digital regulations with new opportunities for print.

• Ian Gibbs — Insight Director DMA and Jicmail — The value and ROI print delivers.

• Charles Jarrold — CEO BPIF — State of the market and the outlook for print.

The audience, 150 leaders from the print, paper, publishing, packaging and media industries providing a great opportunity for networking.

Following the day seminar will be a drinks reception in the historic surroundings of Stationers’ Hall allowing further networking.

Members of Two Sides and BPIF are entitled to a 25% discount by entering a code at checkout. If you are a member please request this code from: enquiries@twosides.info To be a part of this incredibly informative day book tickets at www.powerofprint.info www.twosides.info

HP SPONSOR PRINTING CHARITY ANNUAL LUNCHEON The Printing Charity has announced that eProductivity Software (ePS) and HP have signed up to support the charity through sponsorship of November’s Annual Luncheon.

Printing Charity CEO Neil Lovell said: “We are truly thrilled to have ePS and HP joining us as the official sponsors this year. Through their support, we can continue to bring our industry together to celebrate the achievements of our sectors over the past 12 months and discuss shared challenges and opportunities. We hope that through attending our Annual Luncheon guests feel both inspired by our industry’s potential and supported by the networks they build through the people they meet there. This year, ePS and HP are playing a key role in making this happen.” ePS recently acquired Tharstern, a print business that had seen significant positive outcomes for its employees when the Printing Charity’s helpline was implemented. The Printing Charity remains a key part of ePS’ plans for employee and industry support. “ePS is looking forward to remaining an active Printing Charity supporter, and continuing to evolve the relationship for the benefit of our team and of the print industry overall,” Gary Best, HR Business Partner UK and EMEA, said. “ePS believes in putting our team and people first and being there in good and bad times to help our employees and all those in the print industry in any way we can. Part of this commitment is to remain an active supporter of the Printing Charity because the charity is an invaluable resource for the print industry

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that we are proud to be part of and serve. By sponsoring the Luncheon, we’re delighted to have the opportunity to empower and enable the charity to continue the good work they are already doing.”

HP is committed to acting as an ambassador for the Printing Charity, broadening the network of organisations aware of the range of support offered by the charity for people working in print.

Jane Rixon, HP’s Large Format Business UKI Business Development Manager, explained: “When we first heard about the Printing Charity, we were blown away to learn about the different initiatives and care they provide. We are honoured to support this year’s Luncheon because we want to play our part in raising awareness about this support amongst other businesses in the print sector who may not realise that the charity exists. At HP we believe it’s very important for employers to look after the mental health and wellbeing of their employees, and the charity is a great way for organisations across our industry to achieve this, helping print employees navigate through life’s challenges. We look forward to working with the Printing Charity in future projects like this.”

The charity’s Annual Luncheon is a highlight of the year for those working in the sectors the charity works alongside: print, paper, packaging, publishing and graphics. This year, guests will hear from Michael Grade, the Printing Charity’s 2023 President, as well as enjoying a three course meal and catching up with friends and colleagues in a friendly and inspiring environment.

SCAN OR CLICK HERE Tickets for 2023’s event are now sold out, but anyone still wishing to attend can sign up to the waiting list by completing the form to be notified if any returned tickets become available. C for more information. www.theprintingcharity.org.uk

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

Kudu Performer by nature New high-end flatbed printer 304 m²/h output 10 colour channels Latest print head technology 3.2 m wide roll option Greenguard Gold certified inks

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GREEN ISSUES

2023 PRINT CENSUS PUBLISHED BY FESPA FESPA has published the headline findings of its 2023 Print Census, highlighting the impact of rising sustainability demands and evolving customer requirements on business models and investment plans.

Conducted in partnership with InfoTrends, a division of Keypoint Intelligence, this year’s Census further explored the long-term trends that emerged from the analysis of the 2018 Print Census, including revenue and industry outlook, the rise of environmental pressures, changing customer demands, future investment and purchasing plans, and business models and strategies.

1,778 printers and sign makers from over 120 countries participated in the survey, representing a 26.5% increase from the last Print Census published in May 2018. Respondents defined their business focus as graphics (61%), signage (26%), textile (24%) and industrial (14%).

KEY 2023 PRINT CENSUS FINDINGS

Revenue increase and industry outlook: The market outlook remains positive in line with the results from 2018, with 71% of respondents stating that they are optimistic about the future of their business, despite the considerable economic challenges of the past five years.

The survey further highlighted that the industry is adapting to the changing landscape and finding new opportunities for growth. In accordance with this, respondents reported a 7% average revenue increase since the 2018 Census. In 2018, the mean

annual revenue was reported as €4.4m, compared with a mean annual revenue of €4.7m in 2023, showing a €330k increase.

Growing Demand For Sustainability: The Census reaffirmed that the pressure on printers and sign makers to be more sustainable continues to rise, with 72% of print buyers requesting environmentally friendly products and practices.

25% of respondents shared that their customers cared most about sustainable products and 12% identified a focus on sustainable manufacturing, however, most printers (36%) disclosed that their customers cared about both. The perceived cost increases are often a barrier to sustainable production, but 70% of the respondents shared that they could address sustainability demands without raising their prices and a further 22% advised that they already raised pricing without impact on sales. Customer demand continues to change the market.

The industry is being shaped by changing customer requirements, including quicker turnaround times, more personalisation and versioning options, and shorter print runs. 67% of responses showed an increase in the demand for faster turnaround, 58% noted a rise in requests for shorter runs and 56% highlighted the upsurge in interest for more versioning and personalisation, while only 38% noted an increase in the demand for more complex logistic requirements.

Wide Format Purchasing Plans: The survey highlighted that print service providers are

interested in investing in technology that can streamline production and provide greater application flexibility. For the 201 respondents who own screen printing and wide format equipment, UV-curable Inkjet (27%), eco-solvent Inkjet (18%) and CNC finishing (17%) are the highest priority for their purchasing plans.

Business expansion drives technology investment: When asked about the rationale behind planned technological investments, 55% of respondents want to enter new markets and expand their service and application offerings, 53% are focused on enhancing print quality and 52% are looking to reduce the unit cost.

FESPA Head Of Associations & Technical Lead, Graeme Richardson-Locke, comments, “It’s a positive result to see our community so optimistic not only about the future of our industry, but also about the growth potential of their businesses. The survey once again cemented that one of the key challenges printers and sign makers are currently facing are the ever changing customer demands and the growing need for sustainable solutions. Thanks to the responses from our community, we can now develop and evolve our offering to tailor it, but above all, we hope that the Census findings will help our community to benchmark themselves against similar businesses globally, and to make informed choices for their future.”

The full 2023 Print Census report is available free of charge to members of FESPA national Associations.

To join your local FESPA Association, visit: www. fespa.com/en/become-a-member#find-association www.fespa.com

ELANDERS UK JOINS TWO SIDES Two Sides has a new member — Elanders UK, the global supply chain service with print and packaging solutions. Aligned with the needs of their customers, Elanders improves and optimises business processes to strengthen their clients’ competitive power.

The Elanders Group operates in two main business sectors; Fulfilment Solutions and Print & Packaging Solutions, with the ability to offer customers a fully integrated solution, from printing and packaging to storage, pick and pack, kitting, shipping, and last mile delivery.

“Elanders is delighted to become a member and support Two Sides. Sustainability is an integrated part of our business and strategy, we consider sustainable work a responsibility that also provides great opportunities to create value and improve profitability. We believe that sustainability goes hand in hand with a global perspective. In our environmental work, we always strive to improve our processes, production methods, and products that decrease our ecological footprint. The ambition is to

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meet or to exceed the requirements of being environmentally friendly.” says Martin Ellison, Business Development Director for Elanders UK. Elanders offers a broad range of services and end to end solutions in supply chain management. The Elanders Group has more than 7,000 employees and operates in some 20 countries on four continents to offer a truly global portfolio of services.

“Welcoming new members on board is always a pleasure.

Our partnership with Elanders will help us communicate the great sustainable story that print and paper based products have to tell, to brands and businesses that must be informed about the positive environmental attributes of these materials. We look forward to working with Elanders moving forward.” says Ian Bates, European Marketing and Partnership Director of Two Sides. www.twosides.info/why-join-two-sides www.elanders.co.uk

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

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NEW PROFIT CENTRE

RELAX IN STYLE — LIFE’S A BEACH

Help you customers relax in style, even when they are promoting their businesses, products, events and anniversaries. Get to know Stephen and Roma at Southsea Deckchairs Southsea Deckchairs was founded by Stephen Davies, a deckchair attendant working on Southsea beach during the 1980s and this is where Stephen’s love of deckchairs began. Here the idea was born to set up a workshop making deckchairs, initially for Southsea beach but eventually for every beach in the UK. You are invited to a special quick print pro reseller deal. Initially choose from a couple of launch demonstration packs at special trade pricing.

All the hard work with templates for your designs are available to make your customers look good and you sitting pretty.

Great for exhibitions too, check out our windbreak that created instant enquiries when we unpacked our demonstration stock.

Can you imagine your top customers receiving a personalised gift of a unique

chair in their branding. They will have to order a few as everyone will want to take it home. Speculate to accumulate, you know the drill.

The reseller descriptions will make most sense when viewing the range on the Southsea Deckchair website.

Reseller Initial Entry Level Launch Pack: 2 x The Southsea Deckchair; and 1 x Windbreak.

Reseller Range Launch Pack: 2 x The Southsea Deckchair; 1 x The Wideboy; 1 x The Wider; 1 x The Double; 1 x Tennis Chair; 1 x Windbreak; and 1 x Large Windbreak The quality has amazed our team, being built to last, rather than built to price.

As pioneers in print on anything and everything, your end user customers will love your new promotional print range. Lead by example and brand some yourself. www.deckchairs.co.uk • 023 9265 2865 or 023 9265 4036

PROFIT WITH PONGS TEXTILES Innotech Digital has announced its appointment as an authorised distributor in the UK for the PONGS range of fabric materials. This strategic partnership confirms Innotech’s strong reputation in the wide format printing industry and significantly broadens the breadth of applications it can offer to customers.

PONGS has a rich heritage in textile manufacturing that dates back to 1913.

It is now widely recognised as one of the most pioneering manufacturers of textiles worldwide. The company combines traditional handicrafts with high-tech, and its innovative product developments have made PONGS an internationally renowned company for textile products, all manufactured at its German based factories.

Innotech’s Head of Procurement, Deepak Bhat, says that the agreement marks a significant milestone for the company, “This partnership strengthens our position as a leading materials supplier in the wide and grand format print sector.

Our comprehensive range, friendly team and fast operations infrastructure are what our customers have come to rely on. So as they grow and branch into different applications, we’re growing with them and helping them take the next steps in their business journeys”.

As part of the agreement, Innotech will distribute most materials from the PONGS range, with a

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particular focus on showcasing new applications for printers using some of the unique fabrics in their range. The PONGS fabric collection includes various options, such as décor, banner, display, canvas, and acoustic fabrics, catering to various creative and functional needs.

Bernd Lautenbach, CEO and Owner at PONGS, says, “Innotech has caught the eye as a first class supplier to our industry. It has built an excellent reputation for being a dependable and comprehensive supplier to the wide format print sector. This aligns perfectly with our own commitment to excellence, and we are looking forward to working with them to expand our innovative and inspiring textile solutions in the UK market.” www.innotechdigital.com

BRANDED UMBRELLAS — THE ULTIMATE AUTUMN ACCESSORY

As autumn comes around, Branded Umbrellas become a walking billboard for your brand.

Whether they’re stepping out in the city, the country or on the golf course, This seasonal Solopress range lets you target the right audience. There are even brightly coloured mini brollies for kids!

With a huge range of colours, designs and ecofriendly options, Branded Umbrellas let you display an eye catching message, even when skies are grey.

Branded Umbrellas provide shelter from the weather so your customers and colleagues can arrive at their destination dry and unruffled.

Our unpredictable conditions will make sure your umbrellas get regular use and customers will be grateful when your brand is there to shield them from the storm.

With an array of sizes, colours and designs, you’ve got you customers end users covered! www.solopress.com/umbrellas www.solopress.com

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

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NEW PROFIT CENTRE

ASHGROVE TAPES — AT THE DOUBLE

CHECK OUT THE VIDEO HERE Easy to fall into good habits using this time saving, all aligning Ashgrove tape. Perfect for printed packaging, folders, greeting cards inserts etc. There’s never been a better opportunity to use this proven double sided tape application system. Ever popular and super-versatile.

Over the last 20 years, Ashgrove has supplied quick print pros ever increasing quantities of ATG double sided transfer tape for use in Scotch ATG700 tape dispensers or similar.

The ATG system has become a much loved essential item for print finishing, in any print room large or small.

TACTILE TEXTILES — WHATEVER NEXT

TheMagicTouch introduces new HTV transfer products that offer great decoration opportunities.

Firstly, the arrival of a 3D “Puff” flex transfer with a raised textured effect on the surface of garments and durability as never seen before.

With Puff flex you can cut text, numbers and logos creating a spectacular effect. The rising temperature during pressing creates a beautiful curve in the flex and produces a unique embossed print.

Perfect for creating eye-catching designs on T-shirts, hoodies, caps, bags, and lots more. Available in 500mm wide rolls in white, black, gold, silver and sold by the linear metre.

Also new to arrive is “Reflective” HTV transfer for garments and textiles that allows logos and designs to be visible on low light conditions. Perfect for enhancing visibility and safety, reflective transfers are also popular for sportswear, workwear, and outdoor clothing.

Available in 500mm wide rolls in white, black, gold, silver and sold by the linear metre.

And finally, new “Rainbow Spectrum” HTV with its shimmering prism effect and colours changing depending on the angle being viewed.

This unique product creates an amazing effect, every single time. Available in 500mm wide rolls in clear, yellow, red, royal blue, green, white and sold by the linear metre.

All the above are washable up to 60c and suitable for cotton, polyester, and mixed fabrics.

For further detail or samples, email sales@themagictouch.co.uk

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Load the tape into the gun, press the trigger and pull to apply, and press surfaces together.

Three adhesive grades for every application, large stocks for next-day delivery, highly competitive prices, ATG700 dispensers also in stock, with applications to suit all your customers greeting card inserts and folders: 6035 Standard Permanent ATG Tape; 6039 High Tack Permanent ATG Tape; 6040 Super High Tack Perm ATG Tape; and the 6031 ATG Tape Applicator.

For Best Advice On The Best Grade For Your Application, phone 01779 470606, or email info@ashgrovetrading.com www.ashgrovetrading.com

INTRODUCING THE NEW WINTER TRENDZ CATALOGUE

The Pen Warehouse and Snap Products have released their latest catalogue, Winter Trendz, giving you a gateway to a world of high quality, winter themed promotional products, each crafted to seamlessly resonate with the festive spirit of the upcoming season.

Winter Trendz brings a collection of captivating merchandise, including writing instruments, cosy Christmas hats, sweet candy canes, ice scrapers, and festive stress balls, which can all be personalised according to your unique preferences. Within Winter Trendz, the drive for sustainability and quality is seen in their 14001 and 9001 accredited manufacturing facilities, which will guarantee high quality products and exceptional delivery.

With a strong focus on in-house branding, the company ensures precise quality control and swift turnarounds. They carry an extensive range of promotional items with diverse options to suit every marketing need.

Headquartered in Hampshire, Tancia Ltd remains dedicated to delivering innovative and sustainable solutions that align with clients’ values. From concept to execution, their dedicated team is driven to exceed expectations, providing exceptional service at every stage.

To request your bespoke digital Winter Trendz , contact marketing@ pens.co.uk, or call 01252 400270

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

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SC6000. A new type of automated cutting, kiss cutting and creasing for lightweight card packaging. The SC6000 is an extremely productive machine, loaded with professional production features and with a very small footprint.

FB775. The premium ColorCut FB775 digital die flatbed cutter is our mid range model producing outstanding speed and accuracy. Incorporating a B2+ cutting table for large format sheet cutting.

FB9000. Ultra-fast performance, automatic flatbed cutter with class-leading forces for both die-cutting & creasing. User friendly, delivering high speed performance and unparalleled media control, with dual tools to cut and crease any shape.

The ColorCut Pro Server Station and ColorCut Pro Production Studio software seriously enhances productivity on all models.

QR codes and SmartMarks are generated as part of the ColorCut Pro software plugin which integrates with vector based artwork. The job Library retrieves associated cut files - even for mixed job batch sessions or rotated sheets, while the SmartMark registration delivers incredible accuracy.

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PREFERRED SUPPLIERS HUB ABBOT PRINT

CALF HEY DESIGN

Manufacturers of business stationery, books and pads.

Label manufacturer, trade-only, plain, printed, laminated, barcodes, numbering, one- to fullcolour, we do it all, total label solutions at trade prices. Call for free sample pack.

T: 01442 867600 E: sales@abbotprint.com W: www.abbotprint.com

ASHGROVE TRADING

T: 01779 470606 E: info@ashgrovetrading.com W: www.ashgrovetrading.com

Ashgrove is the UK’s friendly and personal specialist supplier of innovative products and solutions for cutting-edge digital printing and finishing techniques, making printers’ lives easier and making print better.

ATLANTIC TECH

T: +44 (0)1279 638 500 E: sales@atlantic-tech.co.uk W: www.atlantic-tech.co.uk

Reliable Service & Support. The largest independent printer service and support provider in the UK, supplying an extensive selection of top brands including Azon UV Flatbed, Mutoh Roll to Roll Solvent and UV Flatbed printers. Proud to offer a national service and support for Solvent, UV and Latex printers from these leading brands: Mimaki, Ricoh, Azon, Roland, Mutoh and HP.

ART SYSTEMS LTD

T: 0870 224 2612 E: marketing@artsystems.ltd.uk W: www.artsystems.co.uk

HP Latex, HP DesignJets, Epson SureColor printers, MakerBot 3D printers, Summa Cutters, and Onyx Rips.

BAKER LABELS

T: 01277 281900 E: sales@bakerlabels.co.uk W: www.bakerlabels.co.uk

Baker Labels can handle exceptionally large or surprisingly short print runs and aim to have your order ready within four days of proof approval. The sales and customer service team can assist you in selecting the most appropriate material, adhesive and finish depending on the end use of the product.

T: 01484 542 795 W: www.calf-hey.com

CANON (UK)

T: 01895 648 000 • 0844 892 0810 W: www.canon.co.uk/business/ products/production-printers

Enjoy superb image quality and optimised output speeds with the Canon range of digital production printers.

Make light work of demanding print jobs with scalable, modular and innovative commercial printers.

Advanced yet cost-effective, Canon continuous feed printers are perfect for a variety of transactional and graphic arts applications.

CASLON LTD

T: 01727 852211 E: info@caslon.co.uk W: www.caslon.co.uk

Business card cutters, Digital print finishing,, Finishing products and systems, Foiling equipment, Print finishing equipment and Thermographic equipment & supplies.

CJB PRINTING EQUIPMENT T: 0116 2600777 W: www.cjbpe.co.uk E: sales@cjbpe.co.uk

CJB Printing Equipment Ltd was formed in 1994 by two directors with over 40 years of combined experience in the printing industry.

We are an independent leading supplier of a large comprehensive range of print finishing equipment. The company is now a substantial two-generation family concern with an evergrowing reputation for supplying quality new and used equipment.

COLOURFAST GROUP T: 01273 674321 E: sales@colourfast.co.uk

Can print and deliver for you in Brighton.

AccurioPress ��������������������������������������������������������� Konica Minolta AccurioPrint ���������������������������������������������������������� Konica Minolta AccurioPro ������������������������������������������������������������ Konica Minolta Adkins ����������������������������������������������������������Your Print Speclialist Apps ���������������������������������������������������������������Digital Office Group B2B LED Printers ���������������������������������������������������������OKI Europe Bespoke Envelopes ���������������������������������������������������������GFSmith Binder Covers (Printed) ������������������������������������������������Sovereign Binders ������������������������������������������������������������������������� Duraweld Binding �������������������������������������������������������������������FDS Solutions Binding Machines & Supplies �������������������������������������������Elmstok Binding — PVC Coils in 45 colours ������������������������������������������ PDC Binding — Thermal Strips �����������������������������������������������������Renz Binding — Wires / Plastic Combs / PVC Coils ��������������������������Renz Binding Wires / Combs / Fastback / Velo and more ����������������Vivid Booklet Makers ������������������������������������������� CJB Print Equipment Booklet Makers & Trimmers ��������������������������������������������Morgana Books and Booklets ��������������������������������������������������Route1 Print Brochures ���������������������������� The Magazine Production Company Business Card Cutters �����������������������������������������������������Morgana Business Card Cutters ��������������������������������������������������������Caslon Business Stationery ��������������������������������������������������Route1 Print Café Pads ��������������������������������������������������������������������Abbot Print CD Packaging ���������������������������������������������������������������� Duraweld Canon / HP Large Format Printers ������������������������ Perfect Colours ChromaBlast Consumables and Equipment ������������������������������������Listawood Trade Supplies Collators �������������������������������������������������������������������������Morgana

32

DIGITAL OFFICE GROUP

FLEXPRESS

Digital Office Systems is a trusted Xerox Concessionaire, plus so much more. From cut sheet digital presses to the largest largeformat fleet that will match your customers’ requirements and offer more for growth.

Xerox production printers and digital presses.

Wide format, Epson, Canon, Oce, Rowe, HP, Mutoh and KIP, plus professional printer software, apps, and insights.

Trust, in any relationship, is paramount so you’ll find Flexpress provide a good, honest trade print service and keep our promises; this is how, since 1989, we’ve grown to become one of the most respected printers in the UK. Everything we do is produced by us right here in our own production facility using the very latest state-of-the-art equipment.

T: 01530 414 409 E: sales@digital-os.co.uk W: www.digital-os.co.uk

DURAWELD

Manufacturer of presentation products to package, present and protect printed paper and multimedia. Ring Binders, Tabbed Dividers and Indexes, Files and Folders, Wallets, Polypropylene Boxes, Multimedia Packaging, Self Adhesives and Presentation Ring Binders.

Customise to your requirements through screen or litho print, pockets and accessories. Quality service, competitive prices and fast turnaround.

ELMSTOK

T: 01945 463434 E: sales@elmstok.co.uk W: www.elmstok.co.uk

A leading worldwide supplier in document presentation systems and finishing equipment including Binding Machines and Supplies, Manual and Electric Guillotines, Laminating Machines and Supplies, Paper Drills and Punches, Folders, Booklet Makers and Shredding Machines.

FD SOLUTIONS

Paper and card suppliers of prestigious printing and presentation media.

IFS INTELLIGENT FINISHING SYSTEMS T: 020 8997 8053 E: info@ifsl.uk.com W: www.Ifsl.uk.com

A leading supplier of finishing equipment including the Horizon market-leading automated system range in many of the key finishing disciplines — including folding, perfect binding and saddle stitching. 35 years serving the digital and litho print industry.

LISTAWOOD PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS T: 01553 818818 E: sales@listawood.com W: www.listawood.com

UK manufacturer of promotional products including mousemats, ceramics, liquid filled products, USB Flashdrives and magnets. 100% trade only.

LISTAWOOD TRADE SUPPLIES

GBC main UK dealer as well as nationwide distributors of all types of binding, laminating machines and supplies, including guillotines, paper drills, booklet makers, folding machines and cutting and creasing equipment.

Nationwide Service cover offered on all finishing equipment.

Coloured and Textured Media �����������������������������������������GFSmith Colour Printing Systems ���������������������������������������������OKI Europe Colour Printing Systems �����������������������������������Sharp Electronics Continuous Forms ������������������������������������������������������Abbot Print Continuous Forms ���������������������������������������������������������NCR Pads Consumables — Xerox Drum and Creasers ��������������������������������������������������������������������������Morgana Cut Sets ����������������������������������������������������������������������Abbot Print Cut Sheet Presses �������������������������������������������������������������� Canon Continuous Feed Printers �������������������������������������������������� Canon DC Cutter-Creasers ������������������������������������� CJB Print Equipment Digital Media ����������������������������������������������������������Premier Paper Digital Presses ������������������������������������������������������������������� Canon Digital Presses �����������������������������������������������Digital Office Group Digital Presses ������������������������������������������������������ Konica Minolta Digital Print Finishing ��������������������������������������������������������Caslon Digital Printers ������������������������������������������������������������������Xeretec Display Graphic Products ��������������������������������������Premier Paper Display Graphics Printers ������������������������������������� Stanford Marsh Draw Tickets ������������������������������������������������� Raffle Tickets Direct Drytac ����������������������������������������������������������Your Print Speclialist Duplicate Books & Pads ����������������������������������������������Abbot Print Dye Sublimation Consumables and Equipment �������������Listawood Trade Supplies Embossing and Diecutting ��������������������������������������� Baker Labels Epson �����������������������������������������������������������Your Print Speclialist Finishing Consumables ������������������������������������Ashgrove Trading Finishing Equipment ����������������������������������������Ashgrove Trading Finishing Products and Systems ������� Morgana Finishing Systems

GFSMITH

T: 020 7407 6174 E: london@gfsmith.com W: www.gfsmith.com

T: 01723 584091 E: sales@duraweld.co.uk W: www.duraweld.co.uk

T: 0118 956 1740 E: sales@fdsolutions.ltd.uk W: www.fdsolutions.ltd.uk

T: 0116 267 6269 E: admin@flexpress.co.uk W: www.Flexpress.co.uk

T: 01553 818848 E: tradesupplies@listawood.com W: www.listawood.com

A one stop shop for consumables and equipment for dye sublimation and chromablast. Authorised distributor of Hix heat presses and parts.

Finishing Products and Systems ����������������������������������������Caslon Flyers �����������������������������������������������������������������������������Flexpress Foliant Vega 400 ������������������������ IFS Intelligent Finishing Systems Foiling ���������������������������������������������������������������������� Baker Labels Foiling Equipment �������������������������������������������������������������Caslon Folders and Booklet Makers ��������������������������������������������Elmstok Folders & Files Plastic ��������������������������������������������������� Duraweld GBC Magna Punch ��������������������������������������������������FDS Solutions Guillotines �������������������������������������������������� CJB Print Equipment Guillotines — Manual and Electric ������������������������������������Elmstok Heat Press Equipment ��������������������������������������� The Magic Touch Heat Presses ����������������������������������������Listawood Trade Supplies Horizon AFC-566F ��������������������� IFS Intelligent Finishing Systems Horizon BQ-480 ������������������������ IFS Intelligent Finishing Systems Horizon StitchLiner Mark 111 ��� IFS Intelligent Finishing Systems HP Designjets �������������������������������������������������������������Art Systems HP Indigo and UV inkjet labels ��������������������������������� Baker Labels Incentive Marketing ��������������������������������������������������������� PrintOn Indexes ������������������������������������������������������������������������� Duraweld Inkjet Consumables for LFP ��������������������������������� Perfect Colours Labels ������������������������������������������������������������������������������Calf Hey Labels ��������������������������������������������������������������������Premier Paper Labels ����������������������������������������������������������������� Supreme Labels Labels — digital plain ����������������������������������������Ashgrove Trading Labels — sheets/rolls ����������������������������������������Ashgrove Trading Labels (Flat Sheet) ��������������������������������������������������������Sovereign Laminating Machines and Supplies, all types ������������������Elmstok Laminator Pouches & Supplies ���������������������������������������������Vivid Labels and stickers �������������������������������������������������� Baker Labels

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

PREFERRED SUPPLIER HUB

THE MAGAZINE PRODUCTION COMPANY T: 01273 911730 E: info@magazineproduction.com W:www.magazineproduction.com

Comprehensive cost-effective white label design, production and print solution for independent publishers. In-house company newsletters, brochures and magazines — we can send print compliant artwork back to you for printing for your customers.

MORGANA FINISHING SYSTEMS

T: 0800 1381 882 W: www.plockmaticgroup.com

Manufacturer of a comprehensive range of finishing products and systems. Booklet makers & Trimmers, Collators, Business Card Cutters, Creasers.

KONICA MINOLTA BUSINESS SOLUTIONS (UK) T: 0800 833864 E: info@konicaminolta.co.uk W: www.konicaminolta.co.uk

NCR PADS LTD

T: 0330 111 5040 E: lets.talk@ncrpads.co.uk W: www.ncrpads.co.uk

Bespoke printing​in the UK for trade NCR pads, sets, books and continuous forms.

OCÉ IMAGING SUPPLIES

Wide format materials: 0800 623 623 Small format materials: 0800 212 943

Renowned supplier of copying and printing equipment to copy shops, carries one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive range of consumables, for both small and wide format machines, from A4 white paper to display graphic materials such as backlit films.

OKI SYSTEMS (UK)

T: 01784 274300 E: ukenquiries@okieurope.co.uk W: www.oki.co.uk

PEN WAREHOUSE

RENZ UK

Trade pen supplies.

The leading manufacturer of punching and wire binding machines from desktop to fully automated systems. Largest UK supplier of spools and cut length wire.

T: 01252 400270 E: sales@pens.co.uk W: www.pens.co.uk

PERFECT COLOURS

T: 0845 680 9000 W: www.perfectcolours.com E: info@perfectcolours.com

HP Preferred Partner specialising in large and grand format printing and finishing solutions, supplying Durst, Jetix, HP, Canon and Epson LF printers. For more information or to book a free printer demonstration call or E: us.

PDC PRESENTATION SOLUTIONS T: 020 8810 5770 E: sales@pdcuk.com W: www.pdcuk.com

PDC are the UK’s Coil/Spiral experts, we manufacture 45 coil colours in any length up to one metre, in diameters from 6mm up to 50mm and in a range of 45 colours. Call or E: for free samples and pricing.

PREMIER PAPER

T: 0121 313 1115 W: www.paper.co.uk

The Premier Paper Group is the UK’s leading independent paper merchant and through its business divisions and nationwide branch network, offers a great choice of products and services for professional print service suppliers.

Premier Paper deliver more than mere paper by providing first class services, sharing knowledge and information, they endeavour to become an integral and valuable part of quick print pros business.

RAFFLE TICKETS DIRECT

T: 01933 411332 E: sales@raffleticketsdirect.co.uk W:www.raffleticketsdirect.co.uk

One colour to full colour raffle tickets. Fast free express delivery. Cheapest prices in the UK at the best print quality. All tickets are glued within the stub (no metal staples used to fix books).

Large Format Printers ��������������������������������������������Stanford Marsh Large Format Printers (Dye Sub) ����������� Listawood Trade Supplies Large Format Scanners ������������������������������������������Stanford Marsh Large Format MFP Solutions ����������������������������������Stanford Marsh Large Format Printers from HP ������������������������������Perfect Colours Large Format Printers from HP ������������������������������Stanford Marsh Laser Labels ��������������������������������������������������������� Supreme Labels Latex Printers ������������������������������������������������������������Atlantic Tech Leaflets ��������������������������������������������������������������������������� Flexpress LFP Servicing ������������������������������������������������������������Atlantic Tech MakerBot 3D Printers �������������������������������������������������� Art Systems Magazine Design ��������������������The Magazine Production Company Magazine Production �������������The Magazine Production Company Magazine Printing ������������������The Magazine Production Company Mimaki ���������������������������������������������������������� Your Print Speclialist Mouse Mats ��������������������������������Listawood Promotional Products Mugs ������������������������������������������Listawood Promotional Products Multifunction Devices �������������������������������������������������� OKI Europe NCR Books ���������������������������������������������������������������� NCR Pads Ltd NCR Pads ������������������������������������������������������������������ NCR Pads Ltd NCR Sets ������������������������������������������������������������������� NCR Pads Ltd Newsletter Design �����������������The Magazine Production Company Paper — digital synthetic ����������������������������������� Ashgrove Trading Paper Drills & Punches ������������������������������������������������������ Elmstok Paper Supplies ���������������������������������������������Océ Imaging Supplies Paper Supplies �������������������������������������������������������� Premier Paper Pencils ������������������������������������������������������������������ Pen Warehouse Pens ���������������������������������������������������������������������� Pen Warehouse Perfect Binders ���������������������������������������������CJB Print Equipment

QUICK PRINT PRO • NOVEMBER 2023

MAGIC TOUCH (THE)

T: 01707 270001, W: www.renz.co.uk

ROUTE1 PRINT

T: 0114 294 5026 E: sales@route1print.co.uk W: www.route1print.co.uk

• Free Next Day Delivery • Free 30 Point Artwork Check • Trade Customers Only • White Label Packaging Route 1 Print are passionate about helping quick print pros. Offering dedicated account managers and a 10-second proofing tool, to white label packaging and unbranded sample packs, Route 1 Print is committed to making your frontline printing service easier.

SHARP ELECTRONICS (UK) T: 020 8734 2000 W: www.sharp.co.uk

4 Furzeground Way, Stockley Park, Uxbridge, Middlesex UB11 1EZ

SOVEREIGN (SOV PRINT LTD) T: 01443 816414 W: www.sovprint.com

Sovereign are industry leading screen and digital print manufacturers of durable and bespoke Labels, Tags & Signage. We supply over 100 expertly produced products to industry, trade and commerce. Ranging from heavy-duty labels and stickers, to point of sale, machine fascia’s and high-quality bespoke signage.

STANFORD MARSH

T: 01905 458000 W: www.stanfordmarsh.co.uk

Official dealer for all main manufacturers, allowing us to supply best fit solutions for all users. Please visit our website.

SUPREME LABELS

T: 01924 402111 W: www.supremelabels.co.uk

T: 01582 671444 E: sales@themagictouch.co.uk W: www.themagictouch.co.uk

Supplier of transfer papers, colour laser printers and heat presses to open up exciting opportunities to print on a limitless range of products.

VIVID LAMINATING TECHNOLOGIES

T: 01530 510946 W: www.vivid-online.com.

Vivid offer a wide range of innovative and exclusive Laminating Systems ranging from Desktop to Wide Format Laminators. Visit the website to view the full range which also includes Binding and Print Finishing solutions.

XERETEC

T: 02380 574100 E: info@xeretec.co.uk W: www.xeretec.co.uk

Xerox Technology, Document Consulting, Office Supplies

XEROX UK

T: 01895 251133 W: www.xerox.co.uk Bridge House, Oxford Road, Uxbridge, Middlesex UB8 1HS The Document Company supply a full range of office equipment.

YOUR PRINT SPECIALISTS

T: 0191 256 6889 E: info@yourprintspecialists.co.uk W: www.YourPrintSpecialists.co.uk

With an impressive portfolio of products to offer and a dedicated service team. Everything you require from wide format printers to the assisting software and finishing solutions. YPS are authorised suppliers of Mimaki, RolandDG, Epson, Flexa, Vivid, Drytac, Metamark and Toyo.

YPS also offer training and support through Your Print Institute, a new initiative to help those entering the print industry gain skills and knowledge to help them succeed.

Label Suppliers, Roll Labels, Laser Labels, Warning Labels, most formats available.

Photo Production Printers ���������������������������������������������������Canon Plastic Pockets and Wallets ���������������������������������������������Duraweld Polypropylene Boxes ������������������������������������������������������Duraweld PosterJet Software ������������������������������������������������Perfect Colours Presentation Folders ������������������������������������������������������ Flexpress Presentation Packaging (Printed) �����������������������������������Duraweld Print Finishing Equipment �������������������������������������������������� Caslon Printing Systems ��������������������������������������������������������� OKI Europe Printing Systems ����������������������������������������������� Sharp Electronics Promotional Products ���������������Listawood Promotional Products Raffle Tickets ��������������������������������������������������Raffle Tickets Direct Receipt Books ��������������������������������������������������������������Abbot Print Recycled Media ������������������������������������������������������� Premier Paper Register Sets ����������������������������������������������������������������� Abbot Prin Retail POS ������������������������������������������������������������������ Route1 Print Ring Binders �������������������������������������������������������������������������� Vivid Ring Binders �������������������������������������������������������������������Duraweld Roland ���������������������������������������������������������� Your Print Speclialist Roll Laminating Machines ���������������������������������������FDS Solutions Screen Printing �������������������������������������������������������������� Sovereign Screen Printing Labels ���������������������������������������������� Baker Labels Seasonal Print ���������������������������������������������������������������� Flexpress Security Labels ����������������������������������������������������������������� Calf Hey Self Adhesive Labels ��������������������������������������������������������� Calf Hey Self Adhesive Labels �������������������������������������������� Supreme Labels Self Adhesive Pockets �����������������������������������������������������Duraweld Sensory Coaters ��������������������������������������������CJB Print Equipment Shredding Machines — Document Shredders, all types ���� Elmstok Signs (Printed) ��������������������������������������������������������������� Sovereign

Software ��������������������������������������������������������� Digital Office Group Solvent Printers ���������������������������������������������������������Atlantic Tech Speciality Papers ������������������������������������������������������������� GFSmith Stickers and labels, rolls, sheets or singles ��������������� Baker Labels Sublimation Solutions �����������������������������������������The Magic Touch Tearproof/Waterproof Paper ����������������������������� Ashgrove Trading Thermographic Equipment and Supplied �������������������������� Caslon Tickets ������������������������������������������������������������Raffle Tickets Direct Trade-in Equipment ���������������������������������������������PrintersXchange Trade Printing ������������������������������������������������������������ Route1 Print Transfer Paper �����������������������������������������������������The Magic Touch Unbranded Samples �������������������������������������������������� Route1 Print USB Flashdrives �������������������������Listawood Promotional Products UV Printers ����������������������������������������������������������������Atlantic Tech Velobind/Surebind Machines ����������������������������������FDS Solutions Vinyl Labels ����������������������������������������������������������������������� Calf Hey Vinyl Labels ���������������������������������������������������������� Supreme Labels Vivid Easymount ������������������������������������������� Your Print Speclialist Wedding Stationery Stock ����������������������������������������������� GFSmith Wide Format Digital Media ��������������������������������� Ashgrove Trading Wide Format Printers �����������������������������������������������������������Canon Wide Format Printers �������������������������������������� Digital Office Group Wide Format Scanners ������������������������������������ Digital Office Group Xerox Digital Press ������������������������������������������������������������� Xeretec Xerox Digital Printing Press Portfolio �������������������������������Xerox UK Xerox LFP ��������������������������������������������������������������������������� Xeretec

33

THE JOKE’S ON YOU

READERS’ SCRIBES

SOMETHING TO SHARE? CAT’S MEOW

I took my cat’s meds by accident. Don’t ask meow.

BONFIRE NIGHT CRACKERS…

Police arrested two people on Bonfire Night — one for drinking battery acid, the other for eating fireworks. They charged one and let the other one off!

Why should you make sure your bonfire night is well timed? Otherwise it will be bang out of order!

How many aerospace engineers does it take to start a bonfire? None — it’s not rocket science!

What’s Guy Fawkes’ favourite sport? Fuse ball!

Guy Fawkes tried giving away all his unusable explosives to the charity shop I said, don’t do that!

They’ll re-fuse it!

I launched my own clothing line this week. I shouldn’t have lit the fireworks near the washing!

What was Guy Fawkes’ favourite meal? Bangers and mash!

What do you call a duck who likes watching fireworks? A fire quacker!

How many surrealists does it take to set the Guy Fawkes bonfire burning? Fish!

Wish I’d never got a tattoo of a bonfire on my wrist. Loads of places won’t allow me in with firearms!

A friend was having a bonfire night party, so I sprayed it with a fire extinguisher. He was delighted!

I got arrested on bonfire night. Don’t worry, I was let off!

Got my friend an unnecessarily large rocket for bonfire night. He’s over the moon!

What’s the best salad to serve on Guy Fawkes’ Night? Rocket!

BLACK FRIDAY — IT’S A JOKE

It’s Black Friday, and I just got an iPhone 15 for my print salesman. I thought it was a good trade.

Black Friday: The day people spend money they don’t have on things they don’t need.

Black Friday is a scam. You should be mad they overcharge you 364 days a year.

Bought a new vacuum on Black Friday. It sucks!

A word in your drum like…

NOVEMBER 12TH — HAPPY HOUR DAY

We asked 30 quick print pros for their favourite beer o’clock quips.

1. “I’m not really a social drinker. I would say most of my drinking is work related.”

2. “Jobs: Those annoying eight hours before happy hour 3. “Happy hour is the best hour.”

4. “I’ve reached the age where ‘happy hour’ is a nap!”

5. “It’s beginning to look a lot like cocktails.”

6. “We go together like Fridays and happy hour.”

7. “Keep calm and skip to happy hour.”

8. “I work until beer o’clock.” — Stephen King 9. “Why limit happy to an hour?” — W.C. Fields 10. “Work is a good time filler between waking up and happy hour.”

11. “Stop trying to make everyone happy. You’re not beer.”

12. “Only count the happy hours.”

13. “Finish your day sparkling.”

14. “Live every hour like it’s happy hour.”

15. “Get your happy on.”

16. “It’s always happy hour up in here.”

17. “To beer or not to beer. That is a silly question.”

18. “I live for thirsty Thursday.”

19. “You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy beer and that’s kind of the same thing.”

20. “Peace, love, and happy hour.”

21. “I need a little drinky drink.”

22. “Darling, every hour is ‘happy hour’ when you are fabulous.”

23. “Wine Wednesday: Like a little holiday in the middle of the week.”

24. “Isn’t it just amazing how potatoes give us fries and vodka? The rest of the vegetables should get their sh*t together.”

25. “It’s fri-nally Friday.”

26. “Whiskey probably won’t fix your problems, but it’s worth a shot.”

27. “Tonight’s forecast: 99 percent chance of wine.”

28. “My mantra is happy hour every hour.”

29. “Drinks well with others.”

30. “Happiest of hours.”

My brother always wanted a proper drum kit.

GYM EQUIPMENT

I just saw some idiot at the gym. He put a water bottle in the Pringles holder on the treadmill!

SALESMAN JOB SWAP WITH TEC SUPPORT

Trainer: “There are two words I don’t allow in my team. One is ‘gross’ and the other is ‘cool.’”

Salesman: “Yeah? So, what are the two words?”

SIGN OF THE TIMES

A small business owner was upset when a brand new corporate chain much like his own opened next door and erected a huge sign which read “BEST BLACK FRIDAY DEALS!” He was horrified when another competitor opened on the other side of him and announced its arrival with an even larger sign, reading “LOWEST BLACK FRIDAY PRICES!” The small business owner panicked, until he got an idea. He put the biggest sign of all over his own shop.

It read “MAIN ENTRANCE”.

KEEP AFLOAT

The boat yard is having a huge discount on all their yachts and dinghies for Black Friday this year. It will be the biggest sail event they’ve ever had.

QUICK PRINTERS PROSE

What do you call a cat that works at a printing shop?

A copycat What did the Greek philosopher name his religious themed screen printing shop in France.

Sacre’ T’s Why couldn’t the man 3D printing his face control his excitement? He was getting a head of himself.

The Koreans were printing with movable type in 1403. I was in 1402 and the noise kept me awake all night.

Sales Manager: If I knew your writing was so small I’d never have hired you. Sales Trainee: Well it was on my CV, you should have read the small print.

My printer just told me it was joining a band, which makes sense. It loves to jam.

For his birthday, I got him a miniature one.

I’m now expecting wee percussions.

FELIX THE COPY CAT 34

NOVEMBER 2023 • QUICK PRINT PRO

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