Irish Printer Issue 3 2026

I S S U E 3 2 0 2 6 | | T H E V O I C E O F T H E I N D U S T R Y | | W W W. I R I S H P R I N T E R . I E

HP Indigo

Digital Press

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McGowans invests in a HP Indigo 18K Digital Press

27/07/2026 15:17

Train any operator to be a cutting expert THE IECHO SK2 PUTS PRODUCTION-FLOOR CAPABILITY IN EVERYONE’S HANDS KEY BENEFITS » Easy-to-learn software, productive in hours, not weeks » Industry-leading speeds of 2,000 mm/s for serious throughput » Three bed sizes to suit any shop floor, large or small » Automatic knife setup and intelligent table compensation Skilled machine operators can be hard to find, harder to keep, and expensive to train. The SK2 changes the equation.

» Cuts vinyl, board, foam, fabric, leather, composites, and more

New hires and existing staff can be trained and productive within hours, not weeks. Add the self-loading sheet feeder and the SK2 runs semi-automatically, freeing your operator for other work.

» Through-cut, kiss-cut, crease, v-groove, mill, and mark

Easy to use doesn’t mean slow. The SK2 still delivers ±0.025 mm accuracy at speeds of up to 2 m/s.

» ±0.025 mm accuracy on every job

Three bed sizes mean there’s an SK2 for every shop floor, from compact print rooms to high-volume production lines. And you’re never on your own. We deliver operator training in-house, and our dedicated service team keeps the SK2 running at full pace, year after year.

» Linear motor drive built to run hard and last long

ONE MACHINE. ONE WORKFLOW. ANYONE ON THE TEAM. Book a demo with Quadient Graphics. Scan to get in touch.

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03/06/2026 12:20

1 ISSUE 3 2026 04 News A look at what’s happening in the print industry

09 09 FESPA New solutions at the global print expo and remembering FESPA ‘Founding Father’ Michel Caza

14 12 Investment

19

Sign on Time and Universal Graphics accelerate growth with investments in HP Latex technology

19 Irish Print Awards 2026 All the winners from this year’s event

Cover Story A new HP Indigo 18K Digital Press has been installed at McGowans

32 Careers Snap CEO Sean Murray on why leading Snap Ireland is his most enjoyable career path

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ED’S LETTER Editor: Denise Maguire Email: editor@irishprinter.ie Creative Director: Jane Matthews Designer: Lenny Rooney Production: Nicole Ennis Contact:

Welcome to issue 3 of Irish Printer for 2026

Irish Printer,

McGowans’ relationship with HP dates back to 2015, when the print firm purchased a HP Indigo 10000 Digital Press. Over a decade later, that relationship continues with an investment in a HP Indigo 18K Digital Press. The new press will, says Mal McGowan, give the print firm the flexibility to handle a variety of job types and substrates simultaneously, while achieving the widest range of applications. It can also print on thick substrates – up to 600 microns – so can support McGowans’ B1 Landa on the packaging side. It’s a press that will allow the company enter new markets, particularly in its Belfast division. For more on McGowan’s investment, turn to page 14.

Elsewhere in this issue, we take a look at all the winners from the 2026 Irish Print Awards. Label Tech Ltd walked away with the top award of the night, along with Digital Label Printer of the Year and Silver in the Innovation & Print Technology of the Year category. The ‘Women in Print’ award went to Louise Quinlan at Esmark Finch Print & Packaging, while Sustainability Printer of the Year went to iSupply Ltd. Tommy Gaskin was the deserving recipient of The Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to the industry. He was presented with the award by Dermot Downer at Westside Press, who said Tommy is “one of the best production managers around.” To see all the winners, turn to page 19.

Snap CEO Sean Murray chats about how he got into the print industry in our careers feature. In 2017 when Snap came up as a business to acquire, Sean realised it’s not just about ink on paper; Snap is about marketing solutions, branding and helping companies become more visible. Turn to on page 32 for more on Sean’s journey in the industry.

Unit 55, Park West Road,

Ashville Media Group, Park West, Dublin 12, D12 X9F Tel: (01) 432 2200 Web: www.irishprinter.ie Printed by:

McGowans Print

Printed on: HP Indigo 10000 using Novatech paper supplied

by Antalis.

All rights reserved. Every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is accurate. The publishers cannot, however, accept responsibility for errors or omissions. Reproduction by any means in whole or in part without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. © Ashville Media Group 2026. All discounts, promotions and competitions contained in this magazine are run independently of Irish Printer.

The promoter/advertiser is

As always, we’d love to hear from you. If you have any thoughts on this issue, please drop us a line at editor@irishprinter.ie. Enjoy!

responsible for honouring the prize. ISSN 0790-2026

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 3 2026

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PRODUCTION PRINT

Your advantages with the New AccurioPress C5080 series Rethink production printing The ultimate value proposition for startup businesses Exceptional image quality

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Sophisticated media handling

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Inline trimming capability

High-volume long sheet production

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Intelligent media sensor technology

Take a fresh look at MJ Flood Production Print

To schedule a live demonstration, please contact Mark Lynam

Mark Lynam T. + 353 1 466 3500 E. info@mjflood.ie W. mjflood.ie

Dublin | Athlone | Belfast | Cork | Galway | Limerick | Sligo | Waterford | Wexford

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U P D A T E S

NEWS

SPOTLIGHT ON…

REVORIA PRESS PC2120

Key Features » New green speciality toner » Can accommodate two speciality toner colours

FUJIFILM Business Innovation has launched Revoria Press PC2120, the new flagship model in its Revoria Press series for high-end professional printing.

Building on the success of the Revoria Press PC1120, the PC2120 introduces advanced AI-driven automation, an expanded colour gamut, featuring a newly developed green toner, and one-pass six-colour printing using CMYK plus two speciality toners. The company’s expanded speciality toner lineup now comprises seven toners, including existing options like gold, silver, pink and white. The new press utilises AI to simplify complex workflows. In pre-press, a new Substrate Profiler analyses loaded paper and automatically recommends optimal settings, reducing setup time and improving operational efficiency.

The Revoria Flow print server uses AI to scan documents and automatically recommends the best image quality enhancements – such as sharpening text or fine lines. During printing, the Smart Monitoring Gate continuously detects paper colour variations and registration misalignments, automatically correcting them in real time without affecting print speed.

» Preview function allows operators to check colour expression of speciality toners on the display » Achieves high quality printing with Super EA-Eco toner, featuring one of the industry’s smallest toner particle sizes » 2400 dpi high resolution, along with high-speed printing of up to 120 pages per minute » Revoria Flow print server enables high quality image data generation through 1200 × 1200 dpi RIP processing » Equipped with air suction feeder tray, ensuring reliable feeding even for coated papers » Static Eliminator D1 removes static electricity from output sheets » Supports a wide range of paper types, from thin paper (52 gsm) to thick paper (400 gsm)

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End of an era, start of an adventure. Thank you all for being part of my story

CMYUK

CMYUK Group launches CMYK Europe

The end of an era Kevin O’Donnell has announced

CMYUK Group has announced the launch of CMYK Europe, a new company

that after almost four decades, he’s

within the organisation that will serve European customers from Poland. The

retiring from Xerox. He described his

new entity will support customers throughout Europe from its new facility, backed

time at the company as the “journey

by the group’s experience in digital equipment, applications, customer service,

of a lifetime”, adding that when he

sales and marketing. “The foundation of our success has always been our customer

first entered the industry, the print

service and engineering reputation,” said Robin East, CMYUK’s Group Chief

environment looked very different.

Commercial Officer. “We know what the market needs because we’ve spent

“I’ve had the privilege of a front-row

decades helping customers test, evaluate and deploy technology in real-world

seat as we navigated the industry

conditions. Operating CMYK Europe from Poland allows us to serve the European

from traditional analogue to the

market from a central, fast-growing region, while staying true to the model that

high-speed digital world and most

has worked so well in the UK and Ireland.” CMYK Europe is recruiting experienced

recently, into the era of AI and

sales professionals across European territories, who will be able to leverage

automated workflows. Whether it

CMYUK’s sales and marketing infrastructure, while being supported from the

was the introduction of DocuPrint,

Polish facility. It’s also recruiting engineers as part of its commitment to replicating

DocuColor, iGen, Iridesse

CMYUK’s service-led model.

technologies or rethinking how we focus on outcomes rather than just output, every challenge was an opportunity to learn.” What he’ll treasure the most, he said, is the people he met along the way. “To my colleagues at Xerox and my friends across the print industry – thank you for the respect, the support and the many laughs we’ve shared at events like IPEX, Drupa and Xerox Premier Partner events or just over a pint after a long day.

While I’m retiring from Xerox, I’m certainly not retiring from life. I remain curious and ready for what’s

P+D on the run In June the team at P+D took part in the Grocers Fun Run, an annual charity event in aid of the Irish Grocers Benevolent Fund (IGBF). Founded in the early 1960’s,

next. End of an era, start of an adventure. Thank you all for being part of my story.”

the IGBF is a national charity assisting people in the retail, wholesale and supplier trade sectors.

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SOYANG

Antalis Packaging strengthens Ireland team

High-impact floors from Soyang Europe Soyang Europe has launched InstaFloor, a printable cushioned floor covering designed to capture the attention of passers-by in high-

The demand for floor graphics has rocketed, with brands and marketers using it as a way of connecting with the consumer

traffic environments. Made from PVC material created for fast installation across commercial, retail and event environments, the covering is 2.6mm thick to provide an enhanced underfoot comfort and sound reduction. It’s supplied in widths of up to 4m and in roll lengths of up to 30m. “We’re excited to be introducing this highly flexible and durable product into an area of the market that has been extremely busy in recent years,” said Oliver Mashiter, Sales Director at Soyang Europe. “The demand for floor graphics has rocketed, with brands and marketers using it as a way of connecting with the consumer. “InstaFloor has been designed to not only deliver a stunning visual impact but also provide comfort underfoot, all while remaining structurally sound throughout the lifetime of each application.”

Joshua Dalton has been appointed Business Development Manager for the Republic of Ireland Packaging division at Antalis Packaging. He will be responsible for helping local businesses identify more efficient packaging solutions and will work closely with companies across a wide range of sectors including industrial, logistics and e-business. Iain Cunningham, Head of Packaging at Antalis Packaging in Ireland, said: “Antalis Packaging has built a strong reputation for expertise and customer support across the region. Joshua’s appointment further strengthens our commitment to delivering local support backed by the resources, technical knowledge and service capabilities of a leading international packaging specialist.”

First domestically compostable trays from Sabert Sabert Corporation Europe has delivered a solution for children’s ready-meals for Irish school meals provider, Carambola. The provider was seeking the most environmentally friendly packaging possible for its school meals programme, with a clear requirement that the solution be 100% domestically compostable. The tray also needed to meet children’s needs and capture their interest. Pulp Ultra – a new formula exclusive to Sabert featuring no-intentionally-added-PFAS – ticked all the boxes for the customer. The packaging solution is made from over 95% bagasse fibres and treated with a barrier spray coating of <5%. Sabert says it delivers outstanding oil and grease resistance (OGR) permeation in direct contact hot food applications. Pulp Ultra won the Green Apple Awards’ National Silver award in the Paper & Packaging category and was a finalist in the Product Innovation category at the Foodservice Packaging Association Awards. It was also a finalist in the New Packaging category of The Sammies, The Sandwich & Food to Go Industry Awards.

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WRAP-IT DESIGN LTD – elevating brand visibility IN TODAY’S competitive market, visibility is

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P A R T N E R P R O F I L E Wrap-It Design Ltd’s experienced team provide innovative solutions that allow brands make powerful statements

everything – and that’s where we come in. As a specialised provider of large-scale wrapping solutions, we transform fleets, boats and complex industrial projects into powerful brand statements.

With over a decade of proven experience in the Irish market, our company has built a strong reputation through the successful delivery of demanding, large-scale projects. From nationwide fleet rollouts to complex marine applications, we have demonstrated our capability to execute highvolume assignments – completing projects involving

Our focus is on high-impact execution, combining premium materials with expert craftsmanship

thousands of vehicles within tight timeframes, including fleet branding programs delivered in as little as six months.

As the sole provider in Ireland and the official distributor of Härtag antifouling film – a patented solution with over 10 years of presence on the European market – we bring exclusive technology and innovation to the marine wrapping sector. This allows us to offer advanced, performance-driven solutions that go beyond traditional wrapping applications.

Our focus is on high-impact execution, combining premium materials with expert craftsmanship to ensure every project not only looks exceptional but also performs under demanding conditions. What sets us apart is our ability to manage complex operations with precision, consistency and reliability.

All our employees are professionally trained and operate under continuous quality control, with ongoing education and certification as a mandatory

By integrating experience, scalability, exclusive

standard. This structured approach guarantees that

products and strict quality standards, we provide

every installation meets the highest levels of

solutions that elevate brand visibility – on the road,

durability, accuracy, and visual performance.

on the water and across large-format environments.

Info@wrap-it.ie

Tel +353 (0) 89 4599998

www.wrap-it.ie

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FESPA

Mimaki Mimaki Europe took home three EDP Awards at FESPA Global Print Expo.

The wins were in: Best Flatbed/Hybrid Printer <50 m2/h – Mimaki UJ330H-160 hybrid UV printer Best Direct-to-Shape – Object Printing – Mimaki UJF-7151 plusII e UV-LED flatbed printer Best Textile Roll-to-Roll Printer <150 m2/h – Mimaki TS330-1800 sublimation printer The UJ330H-160 is the company’s latest hybrid UV inkjet printer, developed for sign makers and print service providers looking to expand their application range without adding separate systems. It supports a wide mix of graphics applications, from signage, window graphics and banners to wallpaper, POS displays and rigid boards.

Mimaki’s UJF-7151 plusII e is built for industrial-grade precision, combining high-resolution UV-LED output with the ability to print directly onto a wide range of objects and materials.

Completing the trio, the TS330-1800 is designed for modern sublimation textile and apparel production. All three award winners are available to demo at Ireland and UK distributor,

All three award winners are available to demo at Ireland and UK distributor, Hybrid Services’ showroom

Hybrid Services’ showroom.

Agfa

Agfa was recognised at the EDP Awards for its Jeti Bronco H3300 HS hybrid printer. Designed for demanding sign and display environments, the Bronco bridges the gap between the Anapurna Ciervo and Jeti Tauro ranges, with a 3.3m hybrid inkjet press. The press tackles everything from exhibition panels and stage graphics to banners, films, textiles and even corrugated applications, while continuous board feeding means up to four jobs can be printed simultaneously. The Bronco’s media feeding guides push its versatility even further, enabling it to easily handle warp-prone media such as corrugated cardboard, while a full CMYKcmk + white inks set facilitates fast accurate printing across the full color gamut.

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New and innovative print solutions were on display at this year’s global print expo

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2026 EFI Electronics For Imaging (EFI) launched a range of new hybrid, roll-to-roll and textile inkjet innovations at FESPA, including the new EFI VUTEk M3h X hybrid LED printer, the EFI VUTEk FabriVU 340 i8 eight-colour dye sublimation printer, the EFI VUTEk X5r roll-to-roll LED printer and the EFI VUTEk Q3h XP seven-colour hybrid printer.

For sign and display producers, the VUTEk M3h X printer delivers high-quality imaging at high speeds and true hybrid versatility for board and roll printing in one system, enabling new applications and revenue streams without added equipment. Making its debut at FESPA, the 3.4m VUTEk FabriVU 340 i8 dye-sublimation printer with inline fixation is designed to meet the colour-fidelity demands of retail, event and branded environments with eight-colour printing that reproduces a wider gamut and renders richer tones and smoother gradients. EFI also showcased the VUTEk Q3h XP high-performance hybrid LED printer in a new seven-colour configuration. It offers versatile flatbed and roll-to-roll printing capabilities, production-level throughput and advanced media handling and automation options, making it a perfect solution for businesses looking to address current labour challenges and cost-reduction initiatives.

FESPA ‘FOUNDING FATHER’ MICHEL CAZA: 1935 - 2026 One of the founding board members of the FESPA federation, Michel Caza, passed away in May at the age of 90. Michel remained a Board Member of FESPA until his retirement from the role in 2014 and occupied the position of FESPA President from 1996 to 1999 and 2000 to 2002.

FESPA President, Daniel Sunderland, said: “Michel was an irrepressible innovator, passionate about the craft and creativity of screen printing. He believed wholeheartedly in the power to advance print by encouraging printers to share their knowledge and ideas generously with one another. His unshakeable belief in the power of community, collaboration and education was one of the guiding principles on which FESPA was founded and he played a fundamental role in the growth of our organisation and events over seven decades. The global FESPA ‘family’ will never forget his contribution.”

ISSUE 3 2026 IRISH PRINTER

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Award-Winning Print.

Built for How the Trade Works.

SIGNAGE PRINTER OF THE YEAR

LARGE FORMAT PRINTER OF THE YEAR

Proven where it matters.

Fabric Printing.

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All production controlled by our team.

At Xtreme, we produce every fabric job in-house using dye sublimation or UV for exhibition, retail and display

No variability.

graphics.

Consistent quality. Every time.

Every job is printed and finished in-house, giving complete control over colour, consistency and detail from

No surprises.

file to final product.

What you approve is what we deliver.

Recognised with Gold for Signmaker of the Year and Silver in Large format printer of the year, our work doesn’t just look right - it performs where it matters.

IRELAND’S LARGEST LARGE FORMAT FABRIC PRINTER

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info@xtremesigns.ie 01 -458 4370 257187_Xtreme Signs and Graphics_Irish Printer Issue 3 2026_V1.indd 1

Xtreme Online www.xtremesigns.ie 27/05/2026 10:17

SCREEN Europe has recognised Richard Styles and Litho Supplies with the Outstanding Progress Award for their contributions to expanding digital inkjet printing solutions into the Irish print market

SCREEN Europe has recognised the exceptional members of its sales network with its 2025 Dealer Awards, celebrating the dedication and expertise that continues to support the success of SCREEN digital inkjet

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P A R T N E R P R O F I L E

Recognising Excellence while also reducing cost-effectiveness.

adopt digital production workflows.

industry.

This environment is poised to give printing

Throughout this expansion into commercial

For 2025, Richard Styles, Managing Director

businesses and converters who integrate

printing, Richard and Litho Supplies also

of Litho Supplies, has received the

digital printing into their portfolios a key

installed four SCREEN B1 CTP devices while

Outstanding Progress Award. SCREEN

competitive advantage as these various

continuing to support its existing label

emphasised the importance of recognising

market forces continue to accelerate as the

printing partners, maintaining the strong

the contributions made by its sales teams

printing sector continues face more pressure

service and technical expertise that have

and dealer partners, whose market expertise

to digitalise print production from

long defined the company’s reputation. This

and commitment to customers play a vital

stakeholders, clients, and consumers.

supported Screen’s status as the worlds’

printing solutions across the EMEA printing

role in helping printing businesses adopt digital inkjet technology and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.

largest supplier of Computer-to-Plate

Richard Styles receives Outstanding Progress Award 2025

equipment and Truepress LABEL UV presses as the workhorse of the label printing sector.

team has not only adapted, but thrived, with

Celebrating a successful year for SCREEN and its partners

the Outstanding Progress Award presented

The recognition of these achievements reflects

Like much of the EMEA region, Irish print

to Richard recognising his efforts in expanding

the broader success of SCREEN Europe

is currently experiencing dramatic shifts as

SCREEN’s digital inkjet’s presence in the Irish

throughout 2025. The company attributes this

demand for printed goods remains consistent,

printing market.

progress to the combined efforts of its sales

yet individual run lengths are shortening

While Litho Supplies has traditionally focused

teams, dealer partners, technical specialists

with clients requiring a larger number of

on label printing solutions together with offset,

and all employees across the organisation.

diverse SKUs. A shrinking pool of skilled

Richard introduced two global group

Together, these partnerships have helped

analogue press operators makes some

businesses to SCREEN’s inkjet web portfolio

printing businesses across EMEA adopt

traditional printing workflows unwieldly

which resulted in multiple Truepress JET

innovative digital inkjet solutions that deliver

installations across two global printing groups.

digital agility, improved profitability and

His team successfully broadened their skills

sustainable long-term growth.

to support these high-speed inkjet presses for

With strong momentum already building,

commercial printing. This required quickly

SCREEN Europe expects 2026 to be an even

learning about the technology and

more exciting year, as continued collaboration

demonstrating how it could support Irish

with its dealer network drives further

printing businesses and facilitate press

expansion of digital printing technology

installation plus operator training as they

across the region.

The accelerating role of digital inkjet printing in Ireland

The recognition of these achievements reflects the broader success of SCREEN Europe throughout 2025

In this dynamic market, the Litho Supplies

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INVESTMENT

Sign on Time and Universal Graphics are accelerating growth and cutting production costs with investments in HP Latex technology

FAST-TRACKto Kilcoole-based printing, signage and vehicle graphics company Sign on Time has invested in a HP Latex R530, helping the business reduce production costs and take on work in additional markets, with plans already in place to add more HP Latex machines to its line-up.

Managing Partners Petr Plachy and Jitka Placha have a long-standing relationship with HP, having taken on their first machine from

GROWTH

the manufacturer in 2010, purchasing an HP

bought our first HP Latex printer,” Petr said. “We believed then and

Latex device for a company they ran in their

still do that the working environment matters and we preferred

native Czech Republic. Since then the duo has

water-based inks over solvent inks.

stayed loyal to the manufacturer, taking on

“We knew we wanted to move production forward by adding direct-

several machines across various businesses

to-board printing and we were also looking for white ink capability.

over the past 16 years.

The R530 felt like a brilliant hybrid solution. After seeing it in person

On this occasion, Sign on Time decided to go

at FESPA Berlin 2025, it was only a matter of time before we made

for a HP Latex R530, a compact hybrid printer

the final decision.”

that handles both rigid and flexible materials.

Sign on Time finalised its investment in October 2025, purchasing

Running at speeds of up to 24sq m/hr in indoor

the new machine from NTI Digital Solutions Ireland, an approved

mode, the device can handle boards up to 1.6m

HP distribution partner. The company took delivery of the printer in

wide and 5cm thick, while also printing in

November and has been using it to produce various applications,

colour and white.

many of which involve direct printing onto rigid boards, ever since.

HP says the flexibility of the HP Latex R530

“Being able to print direct-to-board significantly reduces our

enables users to create applications such as

production costs, which opens the door to new markets and a wider

indoor and outdoor signage, wall décor,

range of jobs,” Petr said. “It makes our pricing more competitive and

interior graphics, banners and vehicle graphics.

has already helped us win new business. The white ink option opens

Like all HP Latex devices, it also runs water-

up new possibilities, especially for clear materials, and we’re committed

based HP Latex Inks, which have less impact

to learning the machine properly so we can use it to its full potential

on the surrounding environment than solvent,

across a wider range of applications.”

eco-solvent and UV inks.

The new HP Latex R530 has been running alongside several other

“This was a natural continuation of the

HP machines that were already in place at Sign on Time, including a

decision we made back in 2010, when we

HP Latex 335, which was installed in 2018 and a HP Latex 570, which

We knew we wanted to move production forward by adding direct-toboard printing

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It’s an excellent upgrade to what we already have in place.”

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Universal Graphics has upgraded to a new HP Latex FS60W printer, a move that will allow the firm to speed up production, improve the quality of output and strengthen its environmentally friendly print services. Working across three locations in Dublin, Monaghan and Waterford, Universal Graphics has been providing print and sign services for almost three decades. Traditionally a fleet branding specialist, it has spent the last 15 years diversifying into signage and interior branding, with window film marking its most recent expansion. The company cites Guinness, DHL and UPS among its clients.

This diverse print service offering is supported by Universal Graphics’ line-up of HP Latex technology. Among its existing machines are a HP Latex 3200, a HP Latex 800W and a HP Latex 800. However, with demand for work on the rise and the company keen to strengthen its production capacity further, it elected to take on a fourth HP Latex machine.

After speaking with the team at NTI Diatec, an approved HP

was purchased in 2020. Plans are in place to

distribution partner in Ireland, Universal Graphics identified the

upgrade these to the HP Latex 830, while the company also hopes to add a HP Latex FS Series in the near future. “We’ve been in the industry for over 20 years and have remained loyal to HP Latex for the past 16,” Petr said.

“It’s been genuinely satisfying to see the progress from our first HP Latex L26500 device to today’s machines. More than anything, it feels like HP listens and continues to improve, which is something we really value in a long-term partner.”

HP Latex FS60W as the ideal solution to not only bolster its

The white ink option opens up new possibilities, especially for clear materials

production setup, but also expand its capabilities as a business.

Running at speeds of up to 121sq m/hr in two-pass mode, the machine offers a maximum print width of 3.2m and can produce output at 1200 x 1200dpi. Running in nine colours, including white ink, the printer is an effective solution for work such as vehicle graphics, exhibition and event graphics, wallpaper, banners, indoor signage, decoration and other displays.

The company took delivery of the HP Latex FS60W in November 2025 and has already put the printer to use across a range of vehicle graphics and signage projects. Aisling Savage, Marketing at Universal Graphics, said the company is also looking at using the device to support its interior branding offering.

“As the machine enables us to print full 3m rolls for a seamless look, eliminating the need for joins or panels, this will be great for interior applications,” she said. “It will enable us to expand more into this area of the market. It’s faster, higher quality and uses environmentally friendly, non-solvent inks, allowing us to offer an even broader range of premium branding solutions. It’s an excellent upgrade to what we already have in place.”

HP uses water-based inks across all its machines within the HP Latex printer range. These are regarded as having far less impact on the planet than UV, solvent and eco-solvent inks due to their low volatile organic compound (VOC) content. Add in that they are supplied in recyclable, cardboard cartridges and this further reduces their environmental impact.

“HP has been a valued partner of ours for more than 15 years and the HP Latex machines have helped our business grow,” Aisling said. “Given the manufacturer’s consistent dedication to our needs and the exceptional support they provide, we see no reason to look elsewhere.”

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14 COVER STORY

Investment in a HP INDIGO 18K DIGITAL PRESS is elevating the offering at McGowans

JUST the

Thomas Neville, Production Manager, McGowans

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ST Back in 2015, McGowans Print was

Print. The HP Indigo 18K Digital Press is a B2

the first print firm in Ireland to invest in

platform, with a host of features that elevate its

cutting-edge technology from HP. The HP

offering. With it, print firms can achieve the

Indigo 10000 Digital Press allowed the company

widest range of applications and access the

to produce more short-run personalised jobs and

flexibility to handle a variety of job types and

create larger format products using specialised

substrates simultaneously. “The new press can

substrates. It allowed McGowans to expand and

also work with 600 micron stock. That means it

attract new business opportunities and paved

can support the B1 Landa in our packaging

the way for a strong, long-standing relationship

division. The Indigo 18K also features several

between the two companies. Earlier this year,

additional colours including vivid green and

McGowans once again strengthened that

fluorescent pink, so it opens up new products for

relationship when it purchased the HP Indigo

us to sell.” Unlimited colour combinations are

18K Digital Press – the new generation of B2

possible with the new press, with seven ink

format printing.

stations, 12 specialty ElectroInks and a countless

“We’ve been working with Indigo technology

array of spot colours. “It’s a press that really

since it was first invented by Benny Landa in

encourages our designers to be more creative, as

1995. We’ve had three presses from HP – a B2, a

opposed to just working with standard colours.

B3 in Dublin and a B3 in Belfast. When it came to

When you combine those colour possibilities

investing in a new press, there was no doubt in

with our Scodix platform, which embosses and

my mind that we would opt for another HP

foils, it gives a completely new dynamic to the

Indigo,” says Mal McGowan, Owner, McGowans

Irish design community.”

When it came to investing in a new press, there was no doubt in my mind that we would opt for another HP Indigo

ISSUE 3 2026 IRISH PRINTER

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HP INDIGO 18K D Printing speed » 3450 sheets per hour 4/0

Amazing Results

» 4600 sheets per hour in EPM 3/0

The HP Indigo 18K Digital Press has the capability to

» 1725 sheets per hour 4/4

print everything, from general commercial print applications and high-end photo printing to folding carton applications, secure printing, heat transfer, gaming – you name it, it can print it. It offers print firms unparalleled variety and flexibility by supporting more than 2,000 certified substrates, 75% of which are sustainable media, ranging from 75 to 600 microns. That built-in flexibility also accommodates different media thicknesses. Plus, it’s easy to use. “At McGowans, we obviously have 30 years’ experience using HP Indigo presses so the training phase didn’t take long. Even for

» 4600 sheets per hour 1/1 (monochrome)

Line screens » HP Indigo 18K Digital Press: 175, 180m, 180EPM, HMF-200 LPI

» HP Indigo 18K HD Digital Press: 175, 230, 250 LPI

firms who don’t have the same experience we do with HP Indigo, this is a press that’s simple to use, yet the results are amazing.” The press utilises advanced AI tools to enhance user experience and produce even more jobs in a single shift. Proactive prediction of potential downtime alerts and auto recovery increase press utilisation by up to 5%, helping to avoid interruptions and smooth workflows. The press also benefits from multi-press operation by a single operator, thanks to machine learning algorithms and the PrintOS Productivity Power Pack. HP says users will gain a 33% productivity boost and 24% energy savings per sheet using the press’ Enhanced Productivity Mode (EPM).

With the Indigo 18K Digital Press, HP also says it’s

Sheet size » Maximum sheet size:

29.5 x 20.81 in (750 x 530mm) (In-house cutting: 29.527 x 20.866 in)

» Minimum sheet size:

20.1 x 11.7 in (510 x 297mm) for simplex; 20.1 x 13 in (510 x 330) for duplex

» Image size:

29.1 x 20.1 in (740 x 510mm) maximum

possible to print 4,600 colour pages per hour, reducing the cost per sheet by 25% and delivering results faster.

A smart move That speed of operation and enhanced quality are the attributes that McGowans look for when investing in new technology – and what the team consistently find with HP Indigo presses. “The output might be print, but I always describe McGowans as a technology company. We’re driven by the latest technology, both in hardware and software, which helps us create only the best products quicker, more efficiently and at a more cost-competitive level. HP Indigo has helped us achieve that. The new Indigo 18K Digital Press is allowing us to enter new markets, particularly in our Belfast division where we’re now in a position to produce more high quality products in markets like wedding stationery. For us, investing in the new press was a smart move. We’ll be reaping the benefits for years to come.”

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 3 2026

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K DIGITAL PRESS – the details Image resolution

Paper weight

» HP Indigo 18K Digital Press

» Uncoated media

812 dpi at 8-bit, writing system addressability: 812 dpi (virtual 2438 x 2438 dpi)

» HP Indigo 18K HD Digital Press

Addressability: 1625 dpi (virtual 4876 x 4876 dpi) RIP: 812 dpi at 8-bit

» “Fine line RIP” image resolution (option) for HD only:

Addressability: 1625 dpi (virtual 4876 x 4876 dpi) RIP: 1625 dpi at 8-bit full pipeline

The output might be print, but I always describe McGowans as a technology company. We’re driven by the latest technology, both in hardware and software, which helps us create only the best products quicker, more efficiently and at a more cost-competitive level

50 lb text to 150 lb (70-400 gsm) cover

» Coated media

60 lb text to 150 lb (90-400 gsm) cover; Thickness 3-18 pt. (75-450 microns)

» Thick substrate kit up to 24 pt. (up to 600 microns)

» Feeder

Palette feeder 33.4 in (850 mm) of media.

Drawer feeder: Two or four drawers (option), each with 11.8 in (300 mm) of media

» Stacker

Main stacking tray with 33.4 in (850 mm) stack height supporting offset jogging

» Print servers

(DFE) PrintOS Production Pro for Commercial

» Press dimensions

Length: 320 in (8000 mm); Width: 185 in (4700 mm); Height: 94 in (2400 mm)

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HP Indigo 18K Digital Press Versatile B2 duplex digital press supporting over 2,000 substrates, including thick media up to 600 microns (24pt). Offers 7 ink stations for extensive color options and integrates with automation tools for streamlined workflows and maximum productivity.

Learn more

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IRISH PRINT

AWARDS

2026

ONCE AGAIN, the industry’s most innovative companies were recognised at the Irish Print Awards, now in its 47th year. The 2026 event, which was held in April at Clontarf Castle Hotel, featured 30 categories and as ever, competition was tough. Every entry we received showcased the creativity that defines Ireland’s print sector and the companies that aren’t afraid to push the boundaries of print technology.

Our judging panel had the unenviable task of whittling down entries and awarding Gold, Silver and Bronze. Winners on the night included Label Tech Ltd, who took home the coveted Print of the Year award for “Sailors Home – Caravelle”, along with Digital Label Printer of the Year for the same print. Label Tech also won Silver in the Innovation & Print Technology of the Year category for “Boann Distillery THE OAK KING Winter Solstice 2025”. Impro Printing won the Best Use of Print award for “The PowerHouse Bar Manual” while the 3D Printer of the Year award went to Chance Design3D. The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Tommy Gaskin, presented by Westside Press’ Dermot Downer, who described Tommy as a “print genius” and “one of the best production managers around.”

A W A R D S

2026

2026 IPA JUDGES Diarmuid Dawson

Chairman of the Judging Panel and Managing Director of Innovative Print Solutions

Adrian Matthews

Print & Packaging SME

David Mahon

Managing Director, Evad IT Solutions Ltd

Danielle Townsend Founder, BOUNCE

Peter Smith

Digital & Consumables Sales Representative, Heidelberg

Wil Byrne

Technical Director, AG2

Darren Finn

Managing Director, Flexographic Plate Plan

Michael Grimes

Business Development, Canon Professional Print

Jane Matthews

Jane Matthews Design

A huge congratulations to this year’s winners and finalists – your dedication and passion keep the print industry thriving.

See you all next year!

Joe O’Callaghan

Joseph O’Callaghan Consultancy

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2026

LABEL TECH LTD SAILORS HOME – CARAVELLE

2026 IRISH PRINT AWARDS - THE WINNERS 3D Printer of the Year

Chance Design3D Sona Sensory Silver: Ideon Engineering - SLA-Printed Anatomical Models Bronze: EiR3D - Iron Man Mark 85 suit

Best Use of Print

Impro Printing The PowerHouse Bar Manual Silver: Anglo Printers - Deluxe Desktop Calendar 2026 Bronze: Snap Galway - Connacht Rugby Group

Book Printer of the Year

Digital Printer of the Year

Digital Label Printer of the Year

Flexographic Label Print of the Year

W&G Baird Ltd Spell Book - The Crone Silver: Triest Press CLG - A Collection of Poems by Paddy Tighe Bronze: CB Forms - Miscellany of Gortroe and its Environs

Label Tech Ltd Sailors Home – Caravelle

Digital Packaging Printer of the Year

Sponsored by Premier Paper P+D Red Bull Need for Beats Winners Box Silver: Esmark Finch Print & Packaging - Premium Christmas Sleeves Bronze: Mallow Print - Republic of Oud Box

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McGowans Print Carnlough Whiskey Bottle Box Silver: Northside Graphics - Portview Bronze: The Signature Works Ltd - Les Miserables Garments

Watershed Group Kerrygold Dubliner Cheese

Food & Drink Packaging of the Year

Sponsored by Heidelberg Print Library Old Comber Gift Box Silver: McGowans Print - Carnlough Whiskey Bottle Box Bronze: Watershed Group - Kerrygold Dubliner Cheese

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2026

Graphic Design & Print Collaboration Award

Print Finishing Award

Innovation & Print Technology of the Year

Printed Wrap of the Year

Sponsored by Canon W&G Baird Ltd I Jumped So High Silver: Print Dynamics Ltd - Tumbling Earth by Deirdre Frost Bronze: McGowans Print - Christmas Card Box

Sponsored by Mark Andy Chance Design3D 3D Printed Sensory Toys Silver: Label Tech Ltd - Boann Distillery THE OAK KING Winter Solstice 2025 Bronze: R3AD 3D Printing & Design Galway Bay - Kinetic Sculpture

Large Format Digital Printer of the Year

Sponsored by Premier GPMI Alphaset Ltd Dunbrody Visitor Centre Exhibition Fitout Silver: Xtreme Signs and Graphics Cancer Revolution: Science, Innovation and Hope Bronze: Horizon Digital Print - Keeling’s Berry Beds

Litho Packaging Printer of the Year

Anglo Printers Psycho-Frame Vinyl Record Silver: KPS Packaging - Cloud Picker Cartons Rebrand Bronze: Boxpack Ltd - Lidl Deluxe Duck

Magazine, Brochure and Supplement Printer of the Year W&G Baird Ltd Anthology Xmas 2025 Silver: Hacketts Print - Skylark Development Brochure Bronze: K Print - Gaiety School of Acting Manifesto Showcase Brochure 2025

Newspaper & Freesheet Printer of the Year Interpress N.I Ltd Limerick Leader

Small Printer of the Year Connacht / Ulster / Munster

Sponsored by Quadient Label World Killarney Irish Gin Silver: Rooney Media Graphics - IRES Graphic Design & Print Collaboration 2026 Bronze: Kaizen Print - Kaizen Print Sample Pack

Alphaset Ltd Dunbrody Visitor Centre Exhibition Fitout Silver: Ballyprint.com - Galgorm Pink Gin Bronze: Mallow Printing Works Munster Small Printer of the Year

Wrap-It Design Ltd Commercial Vehicle Wrap Silver: WrapCo Signs Ltd - South Dublin County Council Library Bus Wrap Bronze: Typecraft - CJK Vehicle Fleet Branding

Small Printer of the Year Leinster / Dublin Chance Design3D 3D Printed Sensory Toys

Sustainability Printer of the Year

GPS Colour Graphics Ltd Derry City & Strabane Local Development Plan - Plan Strategy

Sponsored by Business Post iSupply Ltd Citylink Recycled Paper Timetables Silver: P+D - Dundrum Town Centre Sustainability Corridor Bronze: Label World - Killarney Irish Gin

Rising Star Award

Textile Printer of the Year

Report & Accounts Printer of the Year

Sponsored By Irish Printing Federation Andrew Wilkinson The Office Printers Silver: Shreevats Shreevastav PrintIn3D Bronze: Emma Healy - Media People Ireland Ltd

P+D Barbour Showroom Graphics Silver: Quality Print - Lineman Car Racing Jerseys Bronze: iSupply Ltd - Irish Linen x Algae Pull Up Banners

Lifetime Achievement

Screen Printing of the Year

Sponsored by Screen Tommy Gaskin

Dublin Shirt Co. Dublin Shirt Co. Tees

Sheetfed Colour Offset Printer of the Year GPS Colour Graphics Ltd The Lough Erne Collection Silver: W&G Baird Ltd - Five Year Tour Bronze: Impro Printing - The PowerHouse Bar Manual

Signage Printer of the Year

Print Media Graduate Sponsored by Canon Emily Nicacio

Print Media Technician Alison Malone

Women Leading in Print

Sponsored by NTI Xtreme Signs and Graphics Cancer Revolution: Science, Innovation and Hope Silver: Snap Galway - Connacht Rugby Group Bronze: Walsh Print & Graphics – Barryroe

Louise Quinlan Esmark Finch Print & Packaging Silver: Deborah Tierney - Triest Press CLG Bronze: Katie Keane - iSupply Ltd

ISSUE 3 2026 IRISH PRINTER

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2026

BEST USE OF PRINT IMPRO PRINTING THE POWERHOUSE BAR MANUAL

3D PRINTER OF THE YEAR CHANCE DESIGN3D SONA SENSORY

BOOK PRINTER OF THE YEAR W&G BAIRD LTD SPELL BOOK - THE CRONE

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2026

DIGITAL LABEL PRINTER OF THE YEAR

DIGITAL PRINTER OF THE YEAR

LABEL TECH LTD SAILORS HOME – CARAVELLE

MCGOWANS PRINT CARNLOUGH WHISKEY BOTTLE BOX

DIGITAL PACKAGING PRINTER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Premier Paper P+D RED BULL NEED FOR BEATS WINNERS BOX

FOOD & DRINK PACKAGING OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Heidelberg PRINT LIBRARY OLD COMBER GIFT BOX

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2026

FLEXOGRAPHIC LABEL PRINT OF THE YEAR WATERSHED GROUP KERRYGOLD DUBLINER CHEESE

GRAPHIC DESIGN & PRINT COLLABORATION AWARD Sponsored by Canon W&G BAIRD LTD I JUMPED SO HIGH

LARGE FORMAT DIGITAL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Premier GPMI ALPHASET LTD DUNBRODY VISITOR CENTRE EXHIBITION FITOUT

INNOVATION & PRINT TECHNOLOGY OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Mark Andy CHANCE DESIGN3D 3D PRINTED SENSORY TOYS

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IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 3 2026

23/06/2026 10:21

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IRISH PRINT AWARDS

LITHO PACKAGING PRINTER OF THE YEAR ANGLO PRINTERS PSYCHO-FRAME VINYL RECORD

MAGAZINE, BROCHURE AND SUPPLEMENT PRINTER OF THE YEAR W&G BAIRD LTD ANTHOLOGY XMAS 2025

NEWSPAPER & FREESHEET PRINTER OF THE YEAR INTERPRESS N.I LTD LIMERICK LEADER

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IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 3 2026

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2026

PRINT FINISHING AWARD Sponsored by Quadient LABEL WORLD KILLARNEY IRISH GIN

PRINT MEDIA GRADUATE Sponsored by Canon EMILY NICACIO

PRINTED WRAP OF THE YEAR WRAP-IT DESIGN LTD COMMERCIAL VEHICLE WRAP

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ISSUE 3 2026 IRISH PRINTER

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2026

RISING STAR AWARD Sponsored By Irish Printing Federation ANDREW WILKINSON THE OFFICE PRINTERS

REPORT & ACCOUNTS PRINTER OF THE YEAR GPS COLOUR GRAPHICS LTD DERRY CITY & STRABANE LOCAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN - PLAN STRATEGY

SCREEN PRINTING OF THE YEAR DUBLIN SHIRT CO. DUBLIN SHIRT CO. TEES

SIGNAGE PRINTER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by NTI XTREME SIGNS AND GRAPHICS CANCER REVOLUTION: SCIENCE, INNOVATION AND HOPE

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IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 3 2026

23/06/2026 10:21

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2026

SMALL PRINTER OF THE YEAR CONNACHT / ULSTER / MUNSTER ALPHASET LTD DUNBRODY VISITOR CENTRE EXHIBITION FITOUT

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SUSTAINABILITY PRINTER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Business Post ISUPPLY LTD. CITYLINK RECYCLED PAPER TIMETABLES

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IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 3 2026

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2026

TOMMY GASKIN WOMEN LEADING IN PRINT LOUISE QUINLAN ESMARK FINCH PRINT & PACKAGING

TEXTILE PRINTER OF THE YEAR P+D BARBOUR SHOWROOM GRAPHICS

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32

C A R E E R S Snap CEO Sean Murray on why leading Snap Ireland became his most enjoyable career path

I DIDN’T FOLLOW the classic career path.

There was no grand five-year plan pointing me in a set direction. For a time after leaving school, farming was the focus, having grown up on a farm in the midlands.

I always knew I wanted something else. I just

WHERE IT ALL

STARTED

had no idea what that “something” was. Then

led me into the world of general management

beautifully designed brochure can elevate a

someone casually said, “You should get into

and manufacturing. It was a step into

business.

sales” and soon after, such an opportunity

something new, different challenges, broader

In a world saturated with AI-generated

arose, which I fully embraced. I started in

responsibility and a chance to see the bigger

sameness, businesses are leaning back into

newspaper advertising sales, my first brush

picture of how a business operates. While I

authentic design and human creativity. AI is

with print, though I didn’t realise it at the

genuinely enjoyed the role, 2016 marked a

a brilliant tool; we use it but it doesn’t replace

time. Then I moved into radio advertising

turning point. Something shifted and I

originality or instinct. Brands want to stand

sales, a fast-paced education in messaging,

decided I wanted to build, or own something

out, not blend in.

and the magic of making a 30-second peak-

myself.

What truly pulled me into this industry was

time slot feel irresistible.

It was in 2017 that Snap came up as a business

the people. The operators running

A colleague left for Dell Technologies and we

to acquire and when I got to take a closer look,

production. The designers collaborating with

kept in touch. One conversation led to

I realised Snap wasn’t just about ink on paper;

the team and customers. The managers and

another and by September 1995, I was in Bray,

it was about marketing solutions, branding

business development teams nurturing client

County Wicklow, starting a sales role in what

and helping companies become more visible.

relationships. Print is a team sport and

was then one of Ireland’s pioneering

That shift in perspective changed everything.

culture matters.

multinationals. What drew me in wasn’t just

At the time, I saw some risks in an increasingly

Over the last number of years, we have

the job; it was the pace, the culture and the

digital-first world. Yet while everyone

expanded our services, incorporated

multicultural environment. You weren’t just

predicted decline in the industry, our business

acquisitions, embraced sustainability and

doing a job; you were part of something that

has grown year-on-year since 2017 (aside from

invested in greener materials and processes.

felt like it was taking off. They were also a

the challenging Covid period). It turns out

Businesses increasingly want partners who

development focused company and during

humans still love tangible things. In fact, with

care about their carbon footprint and rightly

my time, supported me completing an MBA.

so much digital noise, people crave something

so. Green isn’t just a colour in branding

After Dell, I felt the pull to do something

real.

anymore; it’s a commitment.

more. I wanted to lead, to run something

Print is powerful. A striking sign can draw a

If someone asked me today whether they

myself, with a persistent inner voice nudging

customer through your door. Internal signage

should consider a career in print, I’d say this:

me toward having my own business. Through

can bring a company’s ethos and story to life.

“Absolutely, go for it. It’s dynamic, creative,

re-connecting with a former manager from

Branded clothing can turn a team into a

evolving and far more expansive than people

my time there, an opportunity emerged that

walking representation of the brand. A

realise”. Of all the industries I’ve worked in – farming and tech included – this one has

I realised Snap wasn’t just about ink on paper; it was about marketing solutions, branding and helping companies become more visible

been the most surprising, the most engaging and without question, the most enjoyable.

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 3 2026

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Powering Tomorrow’s Print Today Next-Gen CTP Technology with the PlateRite HD 8600NII Accuracy, Speed, Uncompromising Reilability

Contact us or scan to find out more information Litho Supplies | Richard Styles | +353 87 23 428 81

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