Andrew Hand

Wide-format print has changed significantly over the last few years. For a long time, the conversation around new hardware focused heavily on print quality, but most modern systems now produce output that is more than acceptable for the majority of applications. In 2026, the real challenge for print service providers is operational efficiency.

Margins are tighter, turnaround expectations are shorter, and customers want more variation, more sustainability, and more flexibility — often within the same job. As a result, many PSPs are reassessing whether traditional eco-solvent workflows still make sense for the type of work they are producing today.

Across retail graphics, interior décor, wall coverings, POS, vehicle wraps, and branded environments, businesses are increasingly looking for production systems that help reduce delays and improve workflow from print through to finishing and installation. That shift is one of the reasons the HP Latex range — including the HP Latex 630 and 630W, alongside the 730, 730W, 830 and 830W series — is generating growing interest across the industry.

The Pressure on Modern Print Production

Most print businesses are now operating in a very different environment compared to five or ten years ago. Customers now expect shorter lead times, lower minimum order quantities, greater customisation, and consistent quality across multiple applications. At the same time, PSPs are managing rising labour costs, increasing material prices, tighter margins, and more competition than ever before.

The challenge is no longer simply producing good print — it is producing work efficiently and profitably. For many businesses, the biggest operational issues are the bottlenecks that slow production down, including prints waiting to cure, jobs delayed before lamination, reprints caused by inconsistency, maintenance interruptions, and finishing departments waiting on output.

Over the course of a week, those small delays can have a significant impact on productivity and profitability. That is where latex technology has become increasingly attractive, particularly for businesses focused on fast-turnaround work where keeping production moving matters just as much as image quality itself.

Why Workflow Is Becoming More Important Than Print Specs

A lot of the discussion around new printers still focuses on speed and resolution, but many PSPs are paying closer attention to overall workflow efficiency. If jobs can move directly from printing into finishing without long drying or outgassing times, production becomes easier to manage, installation deadlines become less stressful, and teams spend less time managing queues between departments.

For higher-volume environments, that can make a substantial difference to throughput. The HP Latex 730 and 830 series — including the white ink-enabled 730W and 830W models — are clearly designed with this type of production environment in mind. The emphasis is less about headline specifications and more about helping print businesses maintain consistent output across multiple applications while reducing production friction across the wider workflow.

That becomes particularly important for PSPs handling retail rollouts, campaign graphics, vehicle wraps, short-run promotional work, and interior décor projects where turnaround speed is often just as important as print quality. In many cases, clients are not simply buying print — they are buying reliability, flexibility, and delivery speed.

The Growing Demand for More Versatile Print Applications

Another noticeable shift within the market is the move away from purely commodity print work. Many PSPs are actively trying to diversify into applications that offer stronger margins and more repeat business rather than competing solely on banner pricing or high-volume low-margin production.

This includes areas such as premium wall coverings, window manifestations, retail décor, short-run campaign graphics, vehicle wraps, and white ink applications. These markets typically require greater flexibility from production equipment, but they also create opportunities for print businesses to differentiate themselves and move into more profitable sectors.

This is where the HP Latex 630W has found a particularly strong position in the market. For smaller or growing PSPs, white ink has traditionally meant investing in larger and more complex production equipment. The 630W gives businesses access to those higher-value applications without requiring a major change to their production setup or floor space.

For businesses looking to scale further, the 730W and 830W models extend those capabilities into higher-volume production environments while maintaining the same focus on workflow efficiency and application versatility.

Sustainability Is No Longer Just a Marketing Topic

Sustainability has also become a far more practical commercial consideration for PSPs. A few years ago, environmental messaging was often treated primarily as a branding exercise, but it now increasingly forms part of procurement discussions, particularly for retail brands, corporate interiors, hospitality groups, healthcare environments, and public sector projects.

Questions around indoor suitability, odour levels, environmental standards, and ink technology are becoming more common during supplier selection. In some sectors, those conversations are now expected rather than optional, especially for applications installed in customer-facing or enclosed indoor environments.

Water-based HP Latex inks help address many of those concerns while also supporting applications where indoor air quality and installation conditions matter. For PSPs serving these sectors, that is becoming an important advantage commercially as well as operationally.

Where the Industry Is Heading

The print businesses growing successfully in 2026 are not always the largest operations. In many cases, they are the companies that can adapt quickly, handle diverse applications efficiently, reduce production bottlenecks, keep turnaround times tight, and maintain consistent output across a wide range of work.

That is ultimately where the HP Latex 630, 630W, 730, 730W, 830 and 830W portfolio fits into the market. Each system is designed for different production environments, but all focus on the same priorities modern PSPs are dealing with every day — faster turnaround, greater application flexibility, simpler workflows, and more efficient production.

For most print businesses today, profitability is no longer determined purely by how well a printer prints. Increasingly, it comes down to how efficiently the entire operation runs from production through to finishing and installation.

The finishing stage of production is under increasing pressure, with PSPs expected to deliver faster turnaround times, reduce errors, and maintain consistency across a wider range of materials. At FESPA Barcelona, Summa unveiled the F Series Vantage — its latest generation of flatbed cutters designed to streamline finishing workflows and improve day-to-day production efficiency.

In today’s sign and display environment, finishing is no longer a secondary process. It plays a central role in overall productivity, and increasingly determines how efficiently jobs move from print through to installation. The F Series Vantage has been developed around that shift, with a clear focus on reducing friction in production and keeping work flowing through the shop.

Summa is positioning the system as delivering up to 40% productivity gains, achieved through a combination of faster setup, improved automation and more efficient material handling. Rather than relying on a single headline feature, the emphasis is on incremental improvements across the entire workflow — from job preparation through to final cut.

The platform also introduces an expanded tooling ecosystem, designed to support a wider range of applications including more demanding rigid materials. Alongside this, new automation features aim to reduce manual intervention, helping to minimise errors and keep production running consistently.

Speaking at launch, Managing Director Geert Pierloot highlighted the pressures many PSPs are facing, from rising operational costs to labour constraints, and the need to protect margins without compromising throughput. The F Series Vantage has been developed to respond to those challenges, with a focus on stability, usability and keeping production moving.

That emphasis continues through the user experience. Product Manager Randi Kerkaert noted that the system has been engineered to reduce friction at operator level, combining automation and interface design to support faster, more confident production while maintaining precision and safety standards.

Integration has also been a key priority. The F Series Vantage is designed to slot into existing production environments rather than disrupt them, allowing businesses to build on their current setup and scale at their own pace. This approach will appeal to PSPs looking to improve efficiency without overhauling established workflows.

Available in 1612 and 1625 models, the F Series Vantage is being showcased at FESPA Barcelona as part of Summa’s broader focus on more connected, efficient finishing production.

PSW Paper & Print Limited is pleased to announce its appointment as an authorised service and repair centre for Summa roll-fed cutting systems across the UK. This latest accreditation builds on PSW’s earlier achievement in 2026 of becoming an authorised service partner for the Summa F Series flatbed cutters, further reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering comprehensive, manufacturer-approved support across the full range of Summa cutting solutions.

Summa’s roll-fed cutters, including the widely adopted S Class 3 and S One Series, are globally recognised for their precision contour cutting, reliability, and efficiency across applications such as signage, decals, labels, vehicle graphics, and wide-format print finishing. Designed to meet the demands of high-performance production environments, these systems play a critical role in maintaining fast turnaround times and consistent output quality.

As an authorised service partner, PSW is fully equipped to support the ongoing performance and longevity of Summa roll-fed systems. For businesses and service providers operating in time-sensitive production environments, even minimal downtime can have significant operational impact. This accreditation ensures access to accredited expertise, rapid response, and dependable aftercare.

PSW’s engineers are formally trained and approved by Summa to carry out diagnostics, preventative maintenance, repairs, firmware updates, and component replacement in line with manufacturer standards. With direct access to genuine parts and up-to-date technical knowledge, customers can be confident their equipment is maintained to the highest possible standard.

In addition to reactive support, PSW continues to promote a proactive service model. Through scheduled maintenance programmes, system health checks, and performance optimisation, customers and service providers can minimise unexpected failures, extend equipment lifespan, and maintain optimal cutting accuracy. This approach is particularly valuable for service providers responsible for supporting multiple client systems where uptime and reliability are paramount.

Benefits for Summa Roll-Fed Customers

• Authorised Expertise: Summa-accredited engineers with specialist knowledge of S Class 3 and S One Series cutters.
• Fast, Reliable Support: Responsive service to minimise downtime and maintain production continuity.
• Genuine Parts & Approved Procedures: Manufacturer-backed servicing to protect performance and warranty compliance.
• Extended Equipment Lifespan: Proactive maintenance to ensure long-term reliability and cutting precision.
• Support for Service Providers: Dedicated expertise to help partners deliver dependable support to their own customers.
• UK-Based Service Support: Reliable coverage across key regions with a strong, responsive service network.

“Following our authorisation for the Summa F Series earlier this year, achieving authorised status for Summa’s roll-fed range is another significant milestone for PSW,” said Tom Skinner, Sales Director at PSW Paper & Print Limited. “It strengthens our ability to support both end users and service providers with a complete, manufacturer-approved service offering. Our focus remains on delivering fast, reliable support that keeps production running and enables our partners to deliver the same high standards to their customers.”

This latest appointment further reinforces PSW’s position as a trusted technical partner within the UK print and finishing industry. With authorised support now covering both flatbed and roll-fed Summa systems, including the S Class 3 and S One Series, PSW continues to invest in the expertise and infrastructure required to meet the evolving needs of modern production environments and the service providers who support them.

For service enquiries, maintenance support, or more information, visit www.psw.co.uk.

For Printrade, a fast-growing Australian trade printer specialising in high-end wall coverings, stickers, and posters, production speed and quality are critical. As demand for peel-and-stick wallpapers and sheet stickers increased, their existing equipment became a bottleneck. To stay ahead, Printrade turned to Summa and its innovative S Class 3 roll cutter with tangential knife technology.

Trade-only large format and flatbed printing

Printrade is a fast-growing Australian trade printer, rebranded in 2022 from Complete Graphics. The company specialises in high-end large-format printing for resellers, with a strong focus on the home décor market, including peel-and-stick wallpapers, wall coverings, and premium sheet stickers. With a compact team of five, Printrade delivers reliable quality and fast turnaround, making it a trusted partner for resellers seeking more than just standard print.

To ensure consistent quality and minimal downtime, Printrade needs to invest in premium, industrial-grade equipment from global leaders. Every machine is selected for speed, precision, and reliability at scale.

The challenge: bottleneck for increasing volumes

For example, cutting a single roll of thick peel-and-stick wallpaper stickers could take as long as five to six hours. On top of that, the cutting process often produced inconsistent results, which meant extra testing and sometimes even reprints.

A key requirement to switch to Summa was to gain the ability to keep pace with Printrade’s Canon Colorado printers, creating workflow bottlenecks. To continue growing, Printrade needed a cutting solution that combined speed, cleaner cuts, and seamless integration with its printers to unlock higher throughput.

The solution: Summa S Class 3 with tangential knife technology

In 2024, Printrade turned to Pozitive, Summa’s Australian reseller, and invested in two Summa S Class 3 160 TC cutters equipped with tangential knife technology.  

“The reason why I went with Summa is the tangential knife,” says Paul Ilieski, owner of Printrade. “As we often have to cut thicker materials, this technology helps us achieve a cleaner cut.  It offers more efficient, better quality, and more throughput.”

The cutters immediately proved their value: smart sorting and paneling allow cutting speeds up to 50 percent faster, while the tangential knife delivers cleaner cuts and extends blade life for consistent output. Operators appreciate the high usability, with intuitive controls and minimal setup required. At the same time, the machines integrate seamlessly with Printrade’s printers and Caldera RIP software, keeping the workflow smooth and bottleneck-free.

The impact: faster turnaround and seamless workflow

Since adopting the Summa S Class 3 cutters, Printrade has achieved:

• Higher throughput: Cutting times reduced from 5–6 hours to just 3 hours per roll. Printrade can now cut and deliver up to eight rolls of peel-and-stick wallpaper per day, compared to just two before.
• No more bottlenecks: The cutters keep pace with the printers, ensuring an uninterrupted workflow.
• Cleaner, more consistent cuts: Tangential knife technology eliminates reprints and cutting issues.
• Ease of use: Operators required just 10 minutes of training to get started.
• Business growth: Expanded capacity allows Printrade to serve a growing customer base and boost customer satisfaction.

“Now there’s no bottleneck at all,” says Paul Ilieski. “The printers and Summa’s S3 cutters work hand-in-hand. We can comfortably take on more jobs without delays. It’s safe to say that the cutters have paid themselves off very quickly.”

Looking Forward

Printrade is committed to sticking with Summa for its vinyl cutters and is considering future investments as volumes continue to increase. With the S3’s unmatched combination of speed, precision, and ease of use, Printrade has positioned itself as a reliable partner for high-end trade printing in Australia.

PSW Paper & Print Limited is proud to announce its appointment as an authorised service and repair centre for the Summa F Series flatbed cutters across the UK. This important accreditation further strengthens PSW’s commitment to delivering expert technical support, fast response times, and dependable aftercare for customers operating mission-critical cutting systems in demanding production environments.

Summa is a globally respected manufacturer of high-performance flatbed cutting solutions, with the F Series widely recognised for its precision, versatility, and reliability across signage, packaging, display graphics, textiles, and industrial applications. Designed to handle a broad range of materials — from rigid boards and foam to vinyl, acrylics, and composite substrates — the F Series has become a cornerstone of modern finishing departments where accuracy and consistency are essential.

As an authorised service and repair centre, PSW is fully equipped to support the ongoing performance and longevity of Summa F Series systems, ensuring customers achieve maximum uptime and maximum return on investment. In production environments where even short periods of downtime can disrupt schedules and impact revenue, access to accredited technical expertise provides invaluable peace of mind.

By achieving authorised status, PSW’s service engineers are formally trained and approved to carry out diagnostics, preventative maintenance, repairs, firmware updates, and part replacements in line with Summa’s exacting standards. This gives UK customers confidence that their equipment is being serviced by specialists with direct manufacturer backing, up-to-date technical insight, and access to genuine components.

In addition to reactive support, PSW’s authorised status enables a more proactive service approach. Through scheduled maintenance visits, system health checks, and performance optimisation, customers can minimise unexpected breakdowns and extend the operational life of their equipment. This preventative focus not only safeguards production output but also protects long-term capital investment.

Benefits for Summa F Series Customers

• Authorised Expertise: Summa-accredited engineers with specialist knowledge of Summa F Series flatbed cutters.
• Fast, Reliable Support: Reduced downtime through responsive on-site service, remote diagnostics where appropriate, and efficient fault resolution.
• Genuine Parts & Approved Procedures: Repairs carried out using authorised components and manufacturer-approved methods to maintain machine integrity and warranty compliance.
• Extended Equipment Lifespan: Proactive maintenance and professional servicing to protect cutting accuracy, consistency, and long-term performance.
• UK-Based Service Partner: Local, nationwide support from a trusted provider with a strong reputation in print and finishing technology.

“Becoming an authorised service and repair centre for the Summa F Series is a significant achievement for PSW,” said Tom Skinner, Sales Director at PSW Paper & Print Limited. “It reflects the strength of our technical expertise and our ongoing commitment to supporting customers with reliable, manufacturer-approved service that keeps their production running smoothly. Our goal is always to ensure customers can focus on delivering for their own clients, knowing their equipment is supported by specialists.”

This appointment further reinforces PSW’s position as a trusted technical partner for UK businesses relying on advanced cutting and finishing solutions. As production technologies continue to evolve, the need for knowledgeable, responsive service support becomes increasingly critical. With authorised support across much of the UK, Summa F Series users can operate with confidence, knowing expert assistance is never far away.

For service enquiries, maintenance support, or more information, visit www.psw.co.uk.

Specialised, variable printing is at the heart of Trekz’s business, whether it’s producing thousands of unique QR codes or delivering stickers with programmable NFC chips. These innovative applications demand absolute precision and efficiency, which is why Trekz turned to Summa’s F Series flatbed cutters as the cornerstone of its finishing process.

Family business with focus on the future

Founded in 1948 and now run by the third generation, Trekz has evolved from a traditional print shop into a forward-looking online printing company. Since 2001, the company has operated as an online print specialist, and in 2008 it expanded to Germany with Trekz GmbH.

Trekz focuses on delivering stickers, labels, and packaging with speed and reliability. The company is known for its strong customer orientation and ability to consistently meet deadlines across borders.

The challenge: scaling sticker production without compromise

As customer demand grew, Trekz needed to scale production capacity without losing accuracy or consistency. Requiring a solution that could handle large sticker orders efficiently, maintain high precision and integrate smoothly into their digital workflow while solving some bottleneck issues from the past was the end goal of Trekz’ search.

“We needed a system that could deliver a fully cut product, both kiss-cut and through-cut, in one go. Efficiency and reliability were key,” says Mark de Lange, owner of Trekz.

The solution: Summa F1612 flatbed cutters

Trekz gradually built up its cutting capacity with three Summa F1612 flatbed cutters, two of which are equipped with conveyor extensions for roll-based production. All machines run with the Go Produce Pro Pack upgrade, enabling advanced workflow automation.

The systems integrate seamlessly with Trekz’s Epson solvent printers, Mimaki UV printer, and Minolta digital press. Combined with Caldera RIP and Trekz’s own imposition software, the result is a streamlined, end-to-end production process.

All installations were provided by Vink VTS, Summa’s dealer in the Netherlands. “The installations went excellently,” says Mark de Lange. “The technicians are very experienced, and the machines require little maintenance.”

The impact: efficiency, reliability, and growth

With the F1612 cutters, Trekz has transformed its workflow and expanded capacity:

• Consistent high quality: Every sticker sheet meets the same high standard of accuracy and finishing thanks to our consistent quality contour cutting.
• Efficient workflow: Kiss-cutting and through-cutting can be done in one workflow, which results in an efficient production process.
• Shorter lead times: Large orders are processed without interruptions, helping Trekz meet demanding deadlines.
• Business growth: The ability to deliver more in less time supports customer base expansion.

“Because the F Series delivers a fully cut product, the workflow is extremely efficient. It saves us valuable time and ensures constant high quality,” says Mark de Lange.

The future

Looking ahead, Trekz will continue to align its investments with customer demand. Additional Summa tools, such as milling options for rigid substrates, are under consideration.

As Mark de Lange concludes: “When order volumes require it, we will definitely expand our Summa fleet further. The F Series cutters have proven to be a smart and reliable investment for us.”

Discover Trekz Netherlands

Discover Trekz Germany

As an authorised HP reseller, we are pleased to introduce HP’s newest advancements in large-format printing and workflow integration. The launch of the HP DesignJet T870 Printer, the expanded HP Build Workspace, and the latest updates to HP SitePrint mark a significant step forward in helping Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) teams work with greater speed, precision, and efficiency. These innovations seamlessly connect physical and digital environments, offering sustainable, secure printing and AI-enhanced design tools that support professionals at every stage of the project lifecycle.

Today’s design and construction teams face increasing pressure to deliver rapidly, collaborate across dispersed locations, and maintain creativity within demanding deadlines. HP’s latest technology has been developed with these challenges firmly in mind—providing the tools to streamline processes and elevate productivity.

Smarter Printing for Hybrid Workspaces

The HP DesignJet T870 is engineered for the flexible working practices shaping modern AEC, education, and retail environments. This compact and versatile 24-inch device delivers exceptional print quality while minimising its environmental footprint.

Up to 30% lighter, quieter, and more energy-efficient than previous-generation models, the T870 provides the world’s easiest multi-size printing experience—from A4/A to A1/D—without the need for manual media switching. Capable of producing an A1/D print in as little as 21 seconds, it enables teams to maintain momentum on time-critical projects.

With HP Flex Tech Inks, users gain precise CAD output, striking visuals, and robust signage production. Paired with HP Click Solutions, teams can preview jobs in real time, eliminate errors before printing, and send files from virtually any device.

Connecting Physical and Digital Workflows

For many organisations, bridging analogue and digital processes remains a significant barrier. HP Build Workspace directly addresses this challenge.

Initially introduced in 2024 and now enhanced with advanced AI vectorisation, the platform offers mobile-enabled scanning and AI-powered vectorisation directly from HP DesignJet MFPs. This allows users to digitise sketches, convert legacy documents into CAD-ready files, and share work instantly with colleagues.

AI vectorisation can reduce manual drafting time by up to 80%, allowing professionals to focus on higher-value design and project tasks. Additional collaboration tools—including layer separation, markup functionality, and centralised file sharing—enable seamless communication across offices, studios, and worksites.

From 2026, HP Z Workstation users will also be able to run vectorisation tasks locally, completing them up to twice as fast as cloud-based methods.

Next-Level Precision On-Site

HP is also expanding its construction technology ecosystem with the introduction of the HP SitePrint SMR prism. This detachable accessory delivers enhanced accuracy in layout and floor-deviation marking, minimising manual rework and improving operational consistency. It provides construction teams with a significant upgrade in on-site performance and reliability.

Sustainability and Security Built In

Sustainability and security are central to HP’s design philosophy, and both are integral to the HP DesignJet T870 and HP Build Workspace platforms.

The T870 is manufactured using at least 45% recycled plastic and 10% recycled metal, ships in 100% polystyrene-free packaging, and offers features that can reduce energy consumption by up to **60%** and cut ink usage by as much as **95%** during printhead maintenance.

With HP Wolf Security built into the ecosystem, users can be confident that sensitive data remains protected throughout the workflow - providing peace of mind alongside premium performance.

Driving the Future of AEC Technology

The work of architects, engineers, designers, and construction teams shapes the world around us. HP’s fully integrated technology ecosystem - including Z Workstations, DesignJet printers, SitePrint robotics, and Build Workspace software - ensures every tool works in harmony to eliminate workflow gaps, reduce errors, and accelerate delivery.

These latest announcements reinforce HP’s commitment to:

• Advancing digital transformation across the AEC sector
• Embedding AI and automation into everyday workflows
• Delivering sustainability and security as standard

Availability

• HP DesignJet T870 Printer: available globally from 22 October 2025
• Mobile scanning and AI vectorisation in HP Build Workspace: available via authorised resellers from 3 November 2025 (with trial access included on new HP DesignJet MFP purchases)
• HP SitePrint SMR Prism Accessory: available from November 2025
  

For further information, pricing, or to arrange a demonstration, please contact our team - we’re here to support your transition to faster, smarter, and more sustainable large-format workflows.

Running a print shop is no small feat. Between managing orders, tracking jobs, handling customer service, and keeping tabs on finances, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where ONYX Align comes in - a powerful, browser-based order management solution designed to simplify your workflow and give you back control of your time and money.

What Is ONYX Align?

ONYX Align is a web-based platform built specifically for print shops of all sizes. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, Align centralises your operations - from quoting and job tracking to invoicing and financial reporting - into one seamless system.

Why It Matters

Print shop owners often wear many hats, and juggling it all can lead to burnout and missed opportunities. ONYX Align helps you:

• Regain valuable time by automating and organising your workflow
• Increase profitability with real-time insights into margins and cost estimations
• Simplify financial tracking through direct integration with QuickBooks® Online

Make Smarter Financial Decisions

The latest update to ONYX Align introduces a game-changing integration with QuickBooks Online, allowing you to:

• Sync estimates, invoices, payments, and customer data in real time
• Automate financial updates across both platforms - no more manual entry
• Track margins and profitability with precision, helping you make smarter business decisions

Work From Anywhere

Because ONYX Align is browser-based, you’re no longer tied to your shop’s front desk. Whether you’re on-site, at home, or traveling, you can manage your business from anywhere - giving you more autonomy over your time and flexibility in your day.

Features That Make a Difference

• All-in-One Order Management: Create, fulfil, and invoice orders in one place
• Customisable Job Tracking: Use boards and calendars to organise tasks your way
• Fast, Accurate Quoting: Ensure consistency and profitability with every estimate
• Live Financial Sync: Keep your books up-to-date with QuickBooks Online

Hear It From Print Shop Owners Like You

“ONYX Align has revolutionised our quoting process. It’s consistent, accurate, and ensures we’re profitable on every job. Align has helped me. I mainly do vehicle graphics and wraps… when someone calls, they just want a quick quote. I can go in, pick the vehicle, make, model, year - and give ’em a price for a full wrap, partial wrap, or spot graphics almost instantly.”

“Get off the fence. Honestly, it saves so much time and it’s made me so much more money. Knowing your numbers - you’re not guessing anymore. You know exactly what you need, and you can adjust it on the fly.”

Josh, Owner of Wisconsin Wraps

Ready to Simplify Your Print Shop?

If you’re tired of juggling sticky notes, spreadsheets, and disconnected systems, ONYX Align is your solution. It’s more than software - it’s your partner in reclaiming time, boosting profits, and running your shop with confidence.

Did you know that even the most stunning prints can lose their vibrancy in just a few months when exposed to sunlight, humidity, or daily handling? In the world of professional printing, every print tells a story – whether it’s a captivating photograph, a standout retail banner, or a finely crafted art reproduction. Your work represents more than just ink on paper; it’s an investment, a memory, and a brand statement. However, prints face numerous challenges that can dull their vibrancy and impact over time. So, how can you ensure your prints not only last but retain their visual appeal for years to come? The answer lies in protective films. Let’s explore how Neschen’s filmolux® range can enhance, preserve, and elevate your prints.

Why protection films matter for your prints

Prints face environmental and mechanical threats that can lead to fading, damage, and degradation:

• UV radiation 
  Sunlight can cause inks to fade, reducing print vibrancy. filmolux® protection films, such as filmolux® easy clear gloss and filmolux® photo gloss, incorporate UV protection technology that slows down fading, ensuring longer-lasting colour vibrancy for indoor and outdoor applications.
• Mechanical wear and tear
  Prints are exposed to scratches, scuffs, and damage, particularly in high-traffic environments. Products like filmolux® scratch and filmolux® PP sand provide exceptional durability with scratch-resistant coatings.
• Environmental factors
  Humidity, pollution, and contact with cleaning chemicals can lead to print warping and degradation. filmolux® easy clear matt and filmolux® photo matt offer a moisture-resistant barrier, protecting prints in challenging conditions.

Neschen’s filmolux® range offers specialised solutions tailored to various needs, ensuring lasting protection and visual appeal.

Glossy brilliance meets protection

Achieving the perfect balance between visual appeal and durability is crucial for high-impact prints. filmolux® easy clear gloss offers a vibrant, glossy finish that amplifies colours while providing robust protection against UV exposure and mechanical damage. Imagine a retail window display that stays vivid day after day – filmolux® easy clear gloss ensures your prints stand out even under intense lighting. For a subtler, glare-free finish, filmolux® easy clear matt is ideal for galleries, exhibitions, and framed displays, preserving intricate details without unwanted reflections.

Balancing aesthetics and durability

Professional photographers appreciate refined finishes that elevate their work. filmolux® photo gloss brings added shine and contrast to photographs, while filmolux® photo satin offers a subtle sheen that balances gloss and matt. filmolux® photo matt ensures exceptional clarity without glare, making it perfect for displays in bright environments.

Technical certifications and safety

Filmolux® protection films are engineered not only for visual and mechanical protection, but also to meet specific technical certifications. For example, select films feature R9 slip resistance ratings, making them ideal for floor graphics in public spaces and ensuring both durability and safety. 

Becoming more sustainable – without performance compromise

With sustainability becoming a crucial consideration, Neschen’s filmolux® range offers PVC-free solutions like filmolux® PP gloss and filmolux® PP sand, combining environmental responsibility with high performance. These films maintain the same glossy brilliance and protective qualities as traditional options while supporting eco-friendly initiatives. Additionally, filmolux® PP matt backing is an environmentally conscious choice, providing a white, PVC-free backing film that enhances the opacity of transparent media for impactful backlit solutions, or it serves as a substitute for full-surface white printing.

Specialised solutions for unique needs

Not all prints face the same challenges. Floor graphics, for example, require a specialised protection film to maintain their appearance and ensure safety. filmolux® easy clear sand offers a non-slip surface, making it ideal for public spaces like museums and retail stores. For high-traffic areas, filmolux® FGS delivers enhanced scratch resistance, preserving visual integrity over time.

For materials frequently handled, such as and interactive displays, filmolux® scratch provides a robust, scratch-resistant barrier. Trade show displays and pop-up banners often endure rough handling, and filmolux® PP sand’s textured, scratch-resistant finish is designed to withstand frequent contact while preserving graphic sharpness. filmolux® 2004 and filmolux® PP gloss also offer durable and versatile solutions tailored to specific needs.

Technical advantages of protection laminates: a closer look

Protection laminates from the filmolux® range offer far more than surface-level benefits. They serve as essential barriers that preserve the visual and structural integrity of prints over time. Key advantages include:

1. UV protection 
   Prolonging colour vibrancy UV rays can break down inks, leading to fading and discolouration. filmolux® laminates filter out harmful UV light, significantly extending print life and maintaining vibrant colours, especially in outdoor applications.
2. Mechanical durability 
   Protection against physical wear filmolux® laminates provide a robust barrier against scratches, scuffs, and abrasions, reducing the need for costly reprints and preserving aesthetic appeal, even in high-contact settings.
3. Moisture and environmental resistance
   Humidity, pollution, and chemical exposure can damage prints. filmolux® films offer moisture-resistant properties to protect prints from warping and degradation in challenging environments.
4. Enhanced visual appeal and customisation
   With finishes ranging from high-gloss to matte, filmolux® laminates offer the flexibility to tailor print aesthetics based on project needs, making them perfect for various professional settings.
5. Sustainability considerations
   As eco-conscious practices become more important, filmolux® includes PVC-free options like filmolux® PP gloss and filmolux® PP sand, combining high performance with a better environmental responsibility.

Efficient processing and application tips

Applying protection films doesn’t have to be complex. The filmolux® range is designed for seamless application, with a laminator. For high-impact displays, filmolux® easy clear gloss or filmolux® PP gloss maximise visual appeal, while filmolux® easy clear matt and photo matt offer ideal glare-free viewing. Eco-conscious professionals can rely on filmolux® PP gloss and filmolux® PP matt backing for sustainable protection.

Proven protection, backed by science

Research shows that UV-protection films significantly reduce ink fading, preserve colours, and extend print longevity. Additionally, scratch-resistant embossing or coatings like filmolux® scratch have been shown to maintain surface integrity under frequent handling, providing tangible value for high-contact applications.

Choose filmolux® to protect and elevate your prints

Your prints are more than just images – they’re investments in creativity, communication, and quality. filmolux® protection films offer tailored solutions that enhance visual impact, shield against damage, and extend the life of every print.

Discover the complete range of Neschen’s filmolux® protection films and find the perfect fit for your requirements by clicking here.

PSW Paper & Print Limited is thrilled to announce its appointment as the official UK distributor for GTCO CalComp, a globally recognised leader in precision input and digitising technology. This exciting partnership represents a major milestone for PSW, reinforcing its commitment to providing UK businesses with access to innovative, high-quality solutions that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and productivity.

GTCO CalComp is renowned worldwide for developing industry-leading precision input solutions that empower businesses across a wide range of sectors. From engineering and manufacturing to creative design, apparel, and fashion, GTCO CalComp products help organisations streamline workflows, reduce errors, and improve operational performance. By partnering with PSW, UK businesses now have direct access to GTCO CalComp’s full product portfolio, supported by local expertise, personalised service, and responsive aftercare.

Benefits of the Partnership for UK Customers:

• Comprehensive Product Access: UK businesses can now source GTCO CalComp’s solutions easily and reliably, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed.
• Expert Guidance and Support: PSW’s team offers end-to-end assistance, from product selection and consultation to installation, training, and ongoing support.
• Enhanced Operational Efficiency: GTCO CalComp’s advanced technology enables organisations to optimise workflows, increase accuracy, and improve productivity across all stages of their operations.
• Tailored Solutions for Multiple Industries: Whether in design, manufacturing, or the fast-paced apparel and fashion sector, businesses can leverage GTCO CalComp technology to stay ahead of the competition.

“This partnership with GTCO CalComp is an exciting step forward for PSW Paper & Print Limited and our customers,” said Tom Skinner, Sales Director at PSW Paper & Print Limited. “By combining GTCO CalComp’s innovative, precision-driven products with PSW’s trusted local support and expertise, we’re empowering UK businesses to achieve new levels of efficiency, accuracy, and performance.”

Through this collaboration, PSW reinforces its position as a trusted partner for UK businesses seeking cutting-edge technology solutions backed by service excellence. GTCO CalComp products are now available across the UK, allowing organisations to benefit from reliable, high-performance solutions tailored to their unique business needs.

For more information, detailed product specifications, and enquiries, visit www.psw.co.uk