Printers Discuss Advantages of Wide-format Printing
In the "Seize the Wide-Format Advantage" Webinar recently presented by In-plant Graphics and Printing Impressions, and sponsored by Canon Solutions America, more than 500 registrants learned about various wide-format technologies that are available today, along with ideas for new applications that can be produced with them. The Webinar is now available on demand.
Presenters included Bob Neubauer, Editor-in-Chief of In-plant Graphics magazine; and industry veterans Mike Moran, owner of Alphagraphics in Chicago; and Steven Strooh, vice president of Beeline and Blue, Des Moines, IA. Neubauer noted that he has talked to many printers about their wide-format printing services. "Two things that I frequently hear from companies is that their wide-format printing business grew faster than they imagined it would, and that the equipment paid for itself quickly with the new business it generated. Once customers see what is possible with wide-format printing, they come up with new ideas that they can implement."
Printer panelists Moran and Strooh discussed the types of clients that are buying wide-format output, what they buy and why. Both printing experts also talked about how they decided which technology was the right fit for their respective businesses, and provided tips to help other printers make the best choice for their own shops.
The Alphagraphics operation in Chicago added wide-format printing to keep pace with client demand and, according to Moran, it now represents 11 percent of the franchise operation's sales. Relying on an Océ Arizona 460 UV flatbed printer from Canon Solutions America, the shop produces wall graphics, point-of-purchase (POP) signage, banners, photos, vehicle graphics, office decor, charts and presentations. "We feel that our Océ Arizona 460 UV flatbed printer—with white ink and varnish options—helped position us to be able to compete with most other printing companies."
Beeline and Blue is one the first companies in the United States to install a high-speed Océ ColorWave 900 printer. "We are now able to print a wide variety of products on that press, from architectural drawings in full-color to artists renderings and posters," noted Strooh. He added that the installation of the ColorWave 900 has positioned his company to compete with commercial litho printers.
Registrants of this Webinar reported positive feedback. Here are just a few of the comments:
"The general overview of different types of wide-format printers and media is very helpful to us since we are just starting to consider expanding in that area. The many ideas for services we could offer was very helpful."
"I liked hearing real-life experience from those who were ready to take the risk to expand their business."
"It was valuable to hear about the different materials and printers available on the market, as well as tips on where to start as far as what equipment people in the industry recommend."
