Irish Printer Issue 3

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Say Yes with

varioPRINT iXSeries

Want to win with commercial print in a post-pandemic world? Technology from Canon hits the mark

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1 ISSUE 3 2022

04 News A look at what’s happening in the print industry

10 Gearing up for Growth Ger Barron talks about his reasons for sponsoring the 2021 Irish Print Awards and why the future looks bright at Realt

12 12 Best in Class Paddy Gallagher at Print Media Services talks about why small firms are excelling when it comes to high end, bespoke projects

14 A long time coming A new training pathway for Ireland’s print sector needs the support of print firms if it’s to be successful

07 Cover Story Want to win with commercial print in a post-pandemic world? Technology from Canon meets the challenge

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28 The Last Word Materials from CMYUK have been specified for Paddy Power’s Dublin HQ

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16 Irish Print Awards 2021 ake a look at who won what at the 2021 Irish Print Awards

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

Welcome to issue 3 of Irish Printer for 2022.

Irish Printer,

There was a sense of relief and celebration at the recently-held 2021 Irish Print Awards, held at the Crowne Plaza in Santry. As Paddy Gallagher says on page 14, every industry needs its own dedicated awards ceremony. The Irish Print Awards is unique; it’s the only event in the country that recognises and rewards Irish print firms for their talent, innovation and commitment to producing only the highest quality print jobs. To acknowledge the disruption caused by Covid, most award categories included Gold, Silver and Bronze winners, making our judges’ job somewhat easier but only slightly; the quality of entries submitted was once again, extremely high. To see who came out on top at the 2021 Irish Print Awards, turn to page 18.

After several years of back and forth, a new initiative to replace the now redundant print apprenticeship scheme is in the works. Dr Kevin Byrne at TU Dublin has devised a framework for a new training pathway, funding for which has been made available from the Design, Print & Packaging Skillnet. This pathway will consist of a series of individual programmes to be completed by individuals in modular format over an 18 month period and upon completion, participants will gain a ‘Print Media Technician’ qualification. Brian Colleran at DPP Skillnet and Diarmuid Dawson at the Irish Printing Federation are calling on print firms to participate in developing these programmes to ensure they’re fit for purpose and meet the needs of an evolving industry. The success of the initiative lies with industry; once the programmes have been developed, it’s up to individual print firms to put their employees forward to participate. As Brian says, the industry’s finally got the chance to grow its own staff numbers in line with industry demand.

Unit 55, Park West Road,

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

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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 2022. 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 2022

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Unleash Productivity With the new DC-648

With the new Duplo DC-648, Quadient brings the best cutting, creasing, and perforation technology ever produced to the Irish graphics market. Find below 5 perks of a slitter/cutter/creaser: PROCESS APPLICATIONS WITH RAISED UV COATING Unlike a guillotine, there is no clamp putting pressure on the paper and crushing the raised UV. FINISH BANNERS Process long banner sheets while maintaining the same accuracy by utilizing the image shift compensation on the fly.

ADD IN-LINE FOLDING Eliminate an extra set up by adding an in-line knife folder to the device with the Integrated Folding System (IFS).

INTERCHANGEABLE TOOLING STATIONS The Rotary Tool Modules (RTM) have interchangeable processing wheels which eliminate the need for multiple modules to produce various types of finishes.

PRODUCE TINY CARDS Produce cards smaller than 50 mm in length thanks to the new “Process All” feature.

FIND OUT MORE NOW go.quadient.com/3ityc5U or Scan the QR code.

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U P D A T E S

NEWS damaging and disruptive occurrences. In addition, the Meaningful Print Foundation will work on long-term projects empowering the printing industry to make a positive impact on the planet by addressing gender equality, carbon neutralisation, sustainable manufacturing, education for students in need and inclusion of people with disabilities in the workforce.

How will Print Against War raise resources?

The program is open to offers of help from vendors, printers and any other printing community members. To encourage the collection of donations from a broad base of users, Print Against War proposes that online printing and packaging businesses add a voluntary checkout donation option to their e-shops. This will allow a broad base of designers, agencies, print service providers and individuals around the world to contribute. In addition,

Print Against War - delivering support to Ukraine A new initiative called ‘Print Against War’ is calling upon printers and converters, publishers, influencers and suppliers to the printing and packaging industry to join forces and support their colleagues in Ukraine. The

Print Against War is working to create alliances between printers in the EU and those in Ukraine...

you can make direct donations or offer other forms of material help (eg provide consumables, paper, etc for free or at special prices). Finally, Print Against War is working to create alliances between printers in the European Union and those in Ukraine so that the former can share jobs with the latter, making their survival possible.

How will resources be allocated?

organisation’s aim is to help restore

The Meaningful Print Foundation is setting up an

the socioeconomic fabric of printing

application system to make resource allocation

in any region affected by war.

transparent. Through its supervisory board, it will

What is Print Against War?

evaluate case by case the eligibility of the applicant and

Print Against War, a non-profit initiative of the Meaningful Print

the goodness of the projects to be supported. All funded projects will be made visible.

Foundation, will help Ukrainian

To lend your support, join the Print Against War global

printing and packaging companies

community at https://printagainstwar.org/join-print-

continue to operate, or provide

against-war

support when they can again start up their productions.

Together, Print Against War and the Meaningful Print Foundation are designed to mobilise the global printing and packaging industry to help stakeholders cope with wars, natural disasters, epidemics/pandemics and other

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MIMAKI

5

use with Mimaki’s UV curable, full colour 3D printer, the 3DUJ-553. It also improves upon

Pure Clear 3D ink from Mimaki

Mimaki’s previous 3D clear ink (MH-100CL) with

Mimaki has announced the launch of MH-110PCL,

and allowing artists, designers, architects and

its new pure clear material for 3D printing.

more to deliver work as intended and achieve more

According to the company, MH-110PCL has been

clear-cut, transparent modelling. The clear

created with designers in mind. Available in a 4.8L

material can also be mixed with coloured inks to

ink bottle size, the new material is intended for

create translucent-colour models.

increased transparency, negating any yellow tint

Agfa launches new packaging option Agfa has announced the release of SolidTune, a prepress software solution Mimaki for offsethas packaging announced printing the launch that of

inks to create translucent-colour

MH-110PCL, reduces ink consumption its new pure clear and material allows for models. for faster 3Dturnaround printing. time According for greater to the company, production MH-110PCL efficiency,has improved been created image with quality designers and lessinwaste. mind. SolidTune I works Available by applying in a an4.8L ink saving ink bottle algorithm size, the to new the solid material 1-bit is pixels intended before forfinal useoutput. with Mimaki’s It has been UV devised curable, withfull ancolour edge 3D printer, protection, the 3DUJ-553. meaning the It also algorithm improves upon ensures Mimaki’s the edges previous of the solids 3D clear areink (preserved M H -1 0 0 CtoL)keepwthe i t hprinti nclean c r e a and sed transparency, crisp. This helps negating to create anya yellow better tint and printable allowing 1-bit fileartists, for offsetdesigners, packaging architects printing, where and more spot to colours deliverare work often as

production times, as the thinner solid

downstream processes such as

intended printed asand solids. achieve Agfa’s more latest clear-cut, software

ink film enabled by SolidTune takes less

finishing and die-cutting can take place

transparent solution naturally modelling. shortens The overall clear

time and energy to dry. In turn,

sooner.

material can also be mixed with coloured

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Canon unveils imagePRESS V1000 Canon UK & Ireland has launched its new cut-sheet digital colour press, the imagePRESS V1000. Canon says the new device incorporates progressive technological features and proven performance attributes, “establishing it as the next generation in the evolution of the imagePRESS family”. The imagePRESS V1000 also delivers consistent quality and maximum reliability and uptime to

DRYTAC

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An extra dimension Although varnish protects printed work, it can also add a whole new dimension to applications, writes Gareth Newman

boost the production capabilities and

At Drytac, we have seen clear gloss

varnish to media with ADA/UEB

application offerings of print

varnish being used much more

criteria, such as Braille signage

professionals. Joe Courts, Head of

effectively in wide-format print, with

environments, which could in turn

Product Marketing at Canon UK &

customers coming up with a range of

open doors to new work.

Ireland, said: “By responding to the

innovative ways to add that extra bit of

There is also a point to be made in

needs of our customer base, we have

sparkle to applications with this highly

terms of costs. By using clear varnish,

brought a fresh perspective to digital

trusted technique. Perhaps one of the

you can reduce the amount of waste

toner press design, exploring

best examples of this innovation at

ink by turning it into more eye-

innovative ways to tackle everyday

work is with wallcoverings. Often in

catching prints that can boost

production headaches and helping

this area, applications can be rather

profitability. We have seen a trend

print businesses to work better,

flat and stagnant, however the simple

where customers are now starting to

faster, with more scope to offer their

step of adding a clear varnish can add a

use the clear varnish – that had been

customers’ creative print products.

fresh look to the piece, making it much

previously under-used – and adding an

By ensuring consistently high

more likely to achieve its primary goal

extra dimension to flat, sometimes

productivity and building in more

of attracting the attention of

bland, print jobs.

automation for great print quality with

consumers.

While all the above may be true, it’s

minimal intervention, we’re freeing up

Evidence of innovation with varnish

important to remember that clear

operator time for our customers,

goes much further and can also be

varnish is only an option when

enabling their expertise to be

seen when working with both stickers

printing with UV technology. Luckily,

channelled into creating value for

and decals. A clear varnish can add a

there are all sorts of UV printing

clients and developing the business

tactile finish to a normally flat decal,

machines on the market today and

in new directions.”

thus shining a new light on the

plenty of high-quality inks to

application and helping it come to life

accompany them, so varnishing and its

in an eyecatching way. Varnish

benefits is an option available to print

can also play a vital role in

service providers of all shapes and

applications where Braille is

sizes.

required. You can

Gareth Newman is Academy Manager

add a layer of clear

at Drytac

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Say Yes with

varioPRINT iX Want to win with commercial print in a post-pandemic world? Technology from Canon meets the challenge

ISSUE 3 2022 IRISH PRINTER

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8 With industries beginning to return to in-person events, education and hospitality, there has been a natural increase in demand for printed materials. Alongside this, customer buying habits and expectations have evolved with a greater demand for high quality prints to be delivered in the fastest possible time.

To support this changing landscape, many Print Service Providers are now looking closely at their print technology to see how it can be upgraded and automated in order to meet these ever-increasing customer requirements.

Canon’s award-winning varioPRINT iX-series has become a popular choice for commercial printers. The inkjet range offers high print speeds, outstanding image quality, fewer paper jams and great cost savings. Combined with the ability to print on an array of stocks of different weights in one run, with various finishing options, it’s the perfect print partner.

“By combining stunning image quality, a wide range of media with high productivity and the cost-efficiency of inkjet printing, our varioPRINT iX-series allows printers to say ‘yes’ to virtually every print job imaginable,” said Donnán Cullen, Key Account Manager, Canon Ireland.

Award Winning The varioPRINT iX-series was awarded the BLI Pick Award in 2021 for Outstanding Innovation. It can produce brochures with razor sharp colour and detail, as well as sturdy postcards, personalised direct mail pieces, books, manuals and catalogues. It also supports shorter print runs, allowing printers to save costs through less stock wastage.

Better for the Environment The varioPRINT iX-series range has been developed with the environment and the future in mind. The water-based iX inks provide odourless prints and minimal hazardous waste, resulting in a lower environmental impact.

Furthermore, the on-demand printing of books, personalised letters, postcards, leaflets and other collateral are supported which can help businesses to be more sustainable and save on costs.

Boost Productivity

Quality Excellence & Application Versatility Thanks to many iQuariusiX innovations and advancements, the quality of print achieved

Based on proven iQuariusiX technology, the varioPRINT iX-series

through the Canon varioPRINT iX-series rivals any

offers high uptime, reliability and productivity to produce more in less

other established print technology. It prints on

time for users. This makes it the ideal solution for commercial printers

coated and uncoated media up to 350 gsm with

who require predictive and fast production with minimal calibration

consistently high quality. The varioPRINT iX-series

and time-intensive set ups. This range can also be seamlessly integrated

has also been evaluated by Fogra and received

into a variety of workflows due to the Canon PRISMAsync controller,

FOGRA51 certification for achieving the Process

which also helps to support productivity.

Standard Digital (PSD) print control specification.

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By combining stunning image quality, a wide range of media with high productivity and the cost-efficiency of inkjet printing, our varioPRINT iX-series allows printers to say ‘yes’ to virtually every print job imaginable

From high quality brochures to postcards, magazines and premium direct mail, the Canon varioPRINT iX-series delivers the right application

enabled us to cut back on waste and print just what we need,” said Tony Walsh, Managing Director, Walsh Colour Print.

at the right quality. Thanks to the innovative

Service Innovation

iQuariusiX media transport and drying system with

Using sophisticated data analysis to increase the uptime of each press,

InkFusion technology, prints are delivered ready for

proactive service of the varioPRINT iX-series is a data-driven concept.

your inline finishing for the ready-to-go application

This significantly reduces technician visits and allows call outs to be

of your choice.

scheduled proactively, at the most convenient time possible. Canon’s

Advantages for Customers

varioPRINT iX-series also indicates how many prints have been carried out since the machine’s last service moment and data analysis

Canon customer, Walsh Colour Print, one of the

algorithms detect whether one of the device’s subsystems are beginning

leading trade printers in Ireland, recently invested in

to show signs of wear. This allows Canon to schedule a service

a Canon varioPRINT iX3200. “We needed a solution

appointment at the best possible time for the user. Furthermore, if a

that could fill the gap from one copy to 500 copies

part of the machine should break, Remote Diagnostic Systems help

with a competitive unit production cost. The device

Canon technicians to prepare for their visit by ensuring they have the

also had to offer duplex print at high speeds, without

correct parts on hand to resolve the service issue.

compromising on quality. We waited 10 years before

With more than 90% average uptime and no need for daily calibration

we invested in a digital printer that we could be sure

and maintenance, the varioPRINT iX-series is a great choice for

would meet our needs. Our Canon varioPRINT iX3200

commercial printers across many different industries.

runs all day every day at maximum speeds, without any loss in quality. It’s an industrial machine and built

As a global market leader in sheetfed inkjet, no vendor offers more experience in this segment than Canon.

to last within a 24-hour production environment. In fact, the quality of print is now indistinguishable from

For more information, contact marketing.ireland@canon.ie | www.canon.ie

the large print runs on our litho presses. It’s also

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

Ger Barron talks about his reasons for sponsoring the 2021 Irish Print Awards and why the future looks bright at Réalt

GEARING UP FOR

GROWTH

The Irish Print Awards made a comeback after an absence of two and a half years, with Réalt as the main sponsor. Why did you decide to give your full support to the awards?

global shipping turmoil caused by a build-up of containers in

For the past 42 years, Irish printers have been unwavering in

added fuel to the flames, having a direct impact on the

their support for Réalt. The Irish print trade is made up of

manufacturing and distribution cost of paper and board, with

extremely hard-working people and innovative companies that

container loads from Asia hitting a high of $18,400.

developed western economies which lost their high streets during Covid. Consumers switched to online shopping, the majority of which originates in Asia. Next, a rapid increase in energy costs

produce top quality print jobs. The past two years have been very difficult, with grey clouds still hovering over most people’s heads and it was for that reason, along with the financial commitment and doubts over the timing, that we initially hesitated over the extent of support we would give the Irish Print Awards. Ultimately though, the event is the only platform that celebrates the positive aspects of the Irish print trade. We decided to be the main sponsor and are happy with the decision we made.

What impact did Covid have on Réalt?

Business disappeared overnight, with most staff going on PUP immediately. A handful of people remained manning the offices and warehouse. The trickle of orders very slowly started to build over the following months and we had most staff back at work by November 2020. As the trade started to

increase at an alarming level due to an imbalance in supply and

Réalt was experiencing substantial growth up to the pandemic. Do you see that continuing post Covid?

demand brought about by a large upsurge in the demand for

We are hopeful that the signs are already there. About five or six

disposable nappies and feminine sanitary products in India

weeks into Covid, we had no idea how long the pandemic would last

and China. Pulp hit a historic high level followed quickly by

and what condition the economy would be in when we eventually

regain momentum in early 2021, we initially didn’t realise we were heading for the perfect storm. Pulp prices started to

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exited. There were serious doubts back then as to whether our level of trade would return to prepandemic levels, so we decided to launch two new full ranges – packaging boards and cut size.

Cut size grew very quickly in the office supply sector

In business, people are your greatest asset so treat them accordingly. Mind your cash, stay close to your market and maintain strong relationships with your customers and supplier alike.

Gerard Barron MSc, Managing Director, Réalt Paper Ltd.

who were experiencing a good volume of online sales due to the new home office market. Packaging was and is a longer-term plan, but we made serious inroads during the pandemic and we managed to secure a few good supply lines which allowed us to assist many customers desperate for packaging board at a time when demand greatly outstripped supply.

There is a concern for printers in relation to paper and board pricing going forward. As we head into the last week of May, can you share your thoughts on what you think will happen?

Paper and board have been undervalued for many years, but the very

What lessons do you take away from the past two years?

high current price level is not sustainable and there will be a re-

In business, people are your greatest asset so treat

driver behind increases from European supplying mills and is currently

them accordingly. Mind your cash, stay close to your

at its highest point; it will not remain at this level. There is still an

market and maintain strong relationships with your

imbalance in supply and demand which varies considerably by grade,

customers and supplier alike. The ability and flexibility

so the timing of a return to a more balanced market will also vary by

within the company to make quick decisions and

grade. The strike at UPM Kymmene is now over and they are returning

implement them in short time is crucial in a turbulent

to full production in Finland, which is good news. However in uncoated

ever-changing market. Personally, be kinder, smile

folio, the demand outstretches supply to such an extent that the ending

more and keep family and friends close.

of the strike will have little immediate effect. Uncoated mills in Europe

adjustment of prices. Pulp cost (not power or transport) is the main cost

are still working on nearly double the booked production days than

What’s next for Réalt?

In a word, packaging. Our range has grown and we

they were in 2019.

Paper and board are starting to trickle back in from Asia to Europe,

now have a solid offering on GC1, CG2, SBS and WLC

but the container rates are still too high, currently $10/12,000. They

with strong brands such as Zenith, Proxima Plus

will not hit pre-Covid levels again, but paper and board should really

(AllyKing), Supera White, Symbol and more. For the

start moving when we see container rates of $5/7000. Asian tonnage

past year, packaging board has been sold in advance

back in Europe will help balance supply and demand.

before it even hit our floor; with larger allocations now

There will be another round of increases in June, but they will be at a

secured, we will be building our stock offering over the

lower level than recent increases and not all mills will increase. The only

coming months. Numerous product launches are

exception will be some smaller mills that are really struggling to survive

planned over the next two years which we are very

who will pursue a larger increase. With the possible exception of

excited about and look forward to informing the

packaging boards and some cut size grades, we will hopefully enter

market closer to the launch dates.

a period of stability after June.

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On the back of their triumph at the Irish Print Awards 2021, Paddy Gallagher at Print Media Services talks about moving into packaging and why small firms are excelling when it comes to high end, bespoke projects

BESTin CLASS

It’s been almost 10 years since Print Media Services took home

the Irish Print Award’s most prestigious accolade – the award for Overall Printer of the Year. At the 2021 Irish Print Awards, held recently in Crowne Plaza Northwood, the team was once again

which was coated on one side and uncoated on the other. That

named Overall Printer of the Year, while also picking up gold for

colour had to match on both sides. If we used the same ink, it

Brochure Printer of the Year, Leinster/Dublin Small Printer of the

wouldn’t match and that’s where the challenge lay.” A border foil

Year and Litho Packaging Printer of the Year. “We were thrilled

and lamination were also required, as was an overall consistent

to win across so many categories, but we were particularly happy

colour. “Max Benjamin customers are discerning. They expect

to win the Packaging award. That’s a sector that we only moved

colour consistency where the same fragrance is produced across

into in the past couple of years. Our clients were increasingly

different products. Winning the award was validating. It was an

coming to us with packaging projects, so it was a natural

endorsement that we’re doing a pretty good job.”

progression for us to expand into this area. Maria Boylan,

Print Media Services also won the Brochure Printer of the Year

Commercial Director, also joined the team late 2020 and her

award for Design & Crafts Council Critical Selection 2021-2022, a

expertise in the packaging sector really helped push our business further into that space. Unfortunately, she was unable to join us on the night and was sadly missed,” said Paddy Gallagher, Sales Director at Print Media Services.

The company scooped the Litho Packaging award for its work on Max Benjamin Candle and Diffuser product boxes which, said the judges, displayed a high level of skill that easily met the challenges of such a complex project. “It was certainly a tricky job as it involved printing a solid colour on both sides of a sheet

Winning the award was validating. It was an endorsement that we’re doing a pretty good job Paddy Gallagher, Print Media Solution

Paddy Gallagher, Gerry Moore and Awards MC Alan Shortt

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Paddy Gallagher, Lyle Rainey, HP Indigo UK & Ireland Commercial Account Manager and Gerry Moore

to grow year on year. Like Max Benjamin, a packaging project can be tricky to get right at the start. “Once you get it right though and you’re doing a good job, the client will keep reordering the product. That’s the beauty of packaging. With commercial printing, every job is ‘bespoke’ with very few direct reprints. But Paddy Gallagher, Sales Director and Gerry Moore, Managing Director, Print Media Services

we love it all!”

Print firms view packaging as the Holy Grail of printing, says Paddy. “More packaging is being done in Ireland now due to increased shipping costs and many clients want to support Irish.

This is great for companies like us. The industry as a whole may not be that busy at the moment, but as a small business, we’re very active on all fronts, whether it’s digital, litho or packaging.”

A huge thanks must go to our suppliers, says Gerry Moore, Managing Director. “We thanked them by name on the night, but in case we missed any, we would once again like to give our sincerest thanks to our suppliers.”

In the age of social media, the importance of an event like the Irish Print Awards shouldn’t be underestimated, says Paddy.

Paddy Gallagher, Pat O’Reilly, Sales Executive, Realt and Gerry Moore

“Every industry needs its own awards ceremony that recognises firms that go above and beyond. Winning the overall award and taking gold in the three other categories means so much for a small business like ours. It means we’re recognised by both our

brochure that the firm prints every few years. A publication that’s

peers and clients as an award-winning print firm. If you want

sent to Irish Embassies all over the world, it’s a showcase for the

attention to detail, a personal service and for your print project

creativity and innovation that exists within the Irish craft

to get the recognition it deserves, then we’re definitely the

industry. “As printers of this book, we were representing the Irish

printer for you.”

print sector, so we couldn’t let the side down. The quality of the

What advice would he give other firms hoping to be named the

print had to match the quality of the work highlighted within the

overall winner at next year’s event? “Stay positive. Good things

book. As well as displaying the craft of Irish industry, we also

are happening out there and small print firms are exceeding all

wanted to display our own ability and for all those embassies to

expectations. Keep producing good quality work, that’s the key.

acknowledge the high standards of print available in Ireland.”

Keep the faith…”

Business is good at Print Media Services. Packaging makes up about 20% of the firm’s turnover and it’s a sector Paddy expects

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14 T R A I N I N G

A new training pathway for Ireland’s print sector needs the support of print firms if it’s to be successful

Visit most print firms around the country and you’re sure to

by industry as they participate in the rolling out of

notice the lack of younger people working there. Who wants to

the pathway. The pathway training programmes will

join an industry where there’s no progression or training? For the

be subsidised by the Design Print & Packaging

past eight years, there hasn’t been any apprenticeship programme

Skillnet. Participants will not be subsidised in the

for the print industry in Ireland, but that’s all about to change.

way that apprenticeship were. A fee per participant

For almost a decade, calls for a new, fit for purpose

will be required to make up the balance required to

apprenticeship scheme have largely fallen on deaf ears. Despite

fully fund the initiative,” said Brian. The pathway

marshalling support from over 40 print firms, the Irish Printing

will be broken down into three elements; pre-press,

Federation and other interested parties have been unable to gain

printing or post-press. A participant can gain a global

the backing of Solas to establish a much-needed scheme that

qualification across all three, or can concentrate on

would bring fresh blood into the industry. “At the end of last year,

just one. “That pathway will give the participant a

extra funding within the Design, Print & Packaging Skillnet

third level qualification, accredited by a major third

facilitated research into a training pathway, which was carried

level institution.” For the rest of 2022, the goal is to

out by Dr Kevin Byrne of TU Dublin. He spoke to approximately

develop the modules and put the accreditation in

30 companies across all sectors of the industry. From his

place. “That means that by the start of 2023, the

research, a requirement for training within the industry was very

programme will be ready for its first intake of

clear and based on his findings, he came up with the framework

participants.”

of a training pathway,” said Brian Colleran, Network Manager at

People working in the print industry who want to

DPP Skillnet. The pathway will consist of a series of individual

take up the pathway but have missed the start

programmes to be completed by individuals in modular format

needn’t worry; the framework for the pathway has

over an 18 month period. Upon completion, participants will gain

been designed so that participants can begin at any

a ‘Print Media Technician’ qualification.

stage. The pathway is open to people entering the

The next step towards establishing the pathway is to develop

industry for the first time or to people already

the series of programmes and flesh out the framework, before

working in the sector who wish to upskill. “I think

trialling it. “That is going to require about €120,000 in funding.

the industry lost out in recent times with young

We’ve been able to secure €90,000 and the rest will be made up

people who were eager to take on an apprenticeship

Long Time

A

COMING

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15 Reaction to the new ‘Print Media Technician’ pathway from industry has been positive. “There’s a uniform consensus that there’s an urgent need for this type of pathway. One of the biggest constraint to growth for a lot of companies right now is qualified staff. The ability to actually operate is at stake for a large number of firms in growth sectors. Retention is also a huge issue; if I take on new staff, how can I provide them with a career that will keep them interested and increase their value within the company? That’s what we’re setting out to address with this pathway,” said Diarmuid.

Print firms interested in participating in the development of the programmes should get in touch, says Brian. “Whether you’re a printing company in Letterkenny, Dublin or Cork, your employees will have the same access to training. We’re looking for people with strong training backgrounds in the industry to come forward and review development of these programmes to ensure we’re hitting the nail on the head. When the pathway is launched, then it’s time for print firms to step up and put employees forward to participate in these programmes.”

As a sponsor of DPP Skillnet, the Irish Printing Federation is urging print firms to support and become a member of the IPF. “This is an opportunity in the print industry, but were unable to do so. Those potential

for the industry to grow and develop. The more in

entrants ended up moving into a different industry altogether.

the pool, the stronger we are and together, we can

That’s happened here at Innovative Print Solutions several times

drive this initiative forward and keep the momentum

and I know it’s also happened at other firms. It’s important to

going,” said Diarmuid. The success of the pathway is

open up the Print Media Technician pathway to new entrants,

very much dependent on support from the industry.

but also people already working within the industry who want to

“It’s a novel idea; essentially we’re replacing a more

up their game when it comes to their level of skill,” said Diarmuid

traditional apprenticeship model with a different

Dawson, IPF President.

approach, but I think there’s great potential in it. For it to succeed, we need companies to commit to the practical training that needs to take place within

The pathway will give the participant a third level qualification, accredited by a major third level institution Brian Colleran, Network Manager at DPP

their business. This pathway will result in an industry that’s well on its way to becoming selfsufficient, one that can grow its own staff numbers in line with industry demand.”

This new scheme needs the input of industry to ensure its success. To get involved, contact Brian Colleran on 087 292 8900 or email brian@dppskillnet.ie or Diarmuid Dawson on 086 202 7588 or email info@ irishprintingfederation.ie

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16

2021 IPA Judges Freddie Snowe Chairman of the Irish Print Awards Judging Panel JUDGING PANEL David Mahon Managing Director

Irish Print Awards 2021

Evad IT Solutions Ltd Andrew Horan College Lecturer Technological University

The standard of entries for this year’s Irish Print Awards was, once

Dublin

again, extremely high – an excellent result for the Awards, but not so great for our esteemed panel of judges whose job it was to whittle down

Louise Reddy

the huge number of entries we received to just one overall winner per

Lecturer

category. Disruption to the industry caused by Covid was acknowledged at the Awards this year, with most categories including Gold, Silver and

Technological University

Bronze winners, making our judges’ job somewhat easier.

The Irish Print Awards are all about recognising and rewarding

Dublin

companies that are committed to providing only the highest quality service to clients. In light of the past couple of years and the uncertainty

Darren Finn

brought about by Covid, the achievements of our 2021 winners are all the

Managing Director

more impressive.

Flexographic Plate Plan

Congratulations to all of our winners and indeed to everyone who made the shortlist. See you all next year!

Dave O’Reilly

Mediainc Jane Matthews Creative Director Ashville Media Group

Our Sponsors

Owner

Irish Printing Federation

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 3 2022

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Irish Print Awards 2021 Winners

PRINTER OF THE YEAR Print Media Services Ltd

MUNSTER SMALL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - Quality Print

BEST BUSINESS INNOVATION AWARD Gold - McGowans Print Silver - Northside Graphics

NEWSPAPER PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - Interpress NI Silver - Webprint Bronze - Interpress NI

BEST USE OF PRINT Gold - NeoGen BEST USE OF TECHNOLOGY Gold - NeoGen BOOK PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - Impress Printing Works Ltd Silver - KPS Colour Print Bronze - KPS Colour Print BROCHURE PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - Print Media Services Ltd Silver - Impress Printing Works Ltd Bronze - Print Media Services Ltd CONNACHT SMALL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - MW Design, Print & Signs Silver - Triest Press DIGITAL PACKAGING PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - McGowans Print Silver - P+D Bronze - P+D DIGITAL PRINT LABEL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - Label World Silver - Label Tech Ltd Bronze - Multi-Color Labels

OUT OF HOME PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - P+D Silver - SL Graphics Limited Bronze - P+D PRINT FINISHING AWARD Gold - KPS Colour Print Silver - Plus Print Ltd Bronze - Print Media REPORTS & ACCOUNTS PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - NeoGen Silver - Print Media Services Bronze - NeoGen SELF ADHESIVE ROLL LABEL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - Label Tech Ltd Silver - Watershed Group Bronze - Watershed Group SHEETFED COLOUR OFFSET PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - Impress Printing Works Ltd Silver - Plus Print Bronze - W&G Baird SPECIAL PACKAGING PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - The Printed Image Silver - KPS Colour Print

DIGITAL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - NeoGen Silver - McGowans Print Bronze - Horizon Digital Print

ULSTER SMALL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - Ballyprint Silver - Ballyprint

FLEXO PACKAGING PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - Alert Packaging Silver - Multi-Color Labels

WRAP PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - Esmark Finch Silver - Sign Flair Bronze - P+D

GRAPHIC DESIGN & PRINT COLLABORATION AWARD Gold - Plus Print Ltd Silver - Plus Print Ltd Bronze - Display Ireland - A part of the Smurfit Kappa Group

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS Edward Horan Joseph Murphy Eamonn Coonagh

LARGE FORMAT DIGITAL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - McGowans Print Silver - P+D Bronze - Horizon Digital Print LEINSTER / DUBLIN SMALL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - Print Media Services Ltd Silver - Plus Print Ltd Bronze - Go to Print Ltd LITHO PACKAGING PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - Print Media Services Silver - Boxpak Ltd Bronze - KPS Colour Print MAGAZINE PRINTER OF THE YEAR Gold - Plus Print Silver - W&G Baird Bronze - McGowans Print

17

SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR Realt RISING STAR AWARD Melissa Walsh, MW Design, Print & Signs PRINT GRADUATE OF THE YEAR Christina Forde, McGowans Print PRINT MEDIA APPRENTICE NI LEVEL 1 Lee Bradley, Northside Graphics PRINT MEDIA APPRENTICE NI LEVEL 2 Thomas Branigan. Irish Defence Forces PRINT MEDIA APPRENTICE NI LEVEL 3 Matthew McCracken, Alphagraphics

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18 Printer of the Year Sponsored by Realt

Print Media Services Ltd

Paddy Gallagher and Gerry Moore, Print Media Services

A unanimous decision, Print Media Services is the deserving recipient of the 2021 Printer of the Year accolade. The superb quality of all entries submitted by the print firm made choosing an overall winner a simple task for judges. “The level of difficulty in achieving the finished result is of the highest order. A clear commitment to perfection in every area of the design and production of each entry is evident.”

DIGITAL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Business Post

NeoGen - FSI Annual Report 2019 Another win for NeoGen with its phenomenal work on the FSI Annual Report 2019. This is a piece of work that’s “impressive on all leaves”, commented the judges, who added that the report was clearly designed to maximise the capabilities of the digital press on which it was printed. A most deserving winner.

The team from Impress Printing Works

BOOK PRINTER OF THE YEAR Impress Printing Works Ltd – Grangegorman Public Art Book Demonstrating high levels of quality and attention to detail, Impress Printing Works is the worthy winner of the 2021 Book Printer of the Year. Judges commented on the superb production quality across all elements of the book, including repro, print and binding. It was, they commented, “the best of the day”.

Noel Killeen, The Business Post; Ciaran Clancy, Julian McDermott, Mandy Keogh, Kian Moss & Goran Bjelanovic, NeoGen

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Pat Reilly, Realt Sales Executive, Gerry Moore, Paddy Gallagher

BROCHURE PRINTER OF THE YEAR Print Media Services Ltd - Design & Crafts Council Critical Selection 20212022 “Superb” is how judges described the 2021 ‘Brochure Printer’ entry by Print Media Services. Every aspect of the work, from the printing and finish to the tread that brings out the colour, combine to achieve an excellent overall result.

LITHO PACKAGING PRINTER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Realt

Print Media Services - Max Benjamin Candle Displaying a high level of skill that easily met the challenges of such a complex project, Print Media Services is the worthy winner of the Litho Packaging Printer of the Year award.

Commenting on the piece, judges said: “The colourful and good quality printing and finishing techniques used in this print is what made it a clear winner.’’

Wrap Printer of the Year Esmark Finch SundAir Airbus 320214 Aircraft Wrap Judges singled out Esmark Finch for the consistency of branding and impressive attention to detail so evident in its Wrap Printer of the Year entry. These elements made for an excellent overall finish, said the judges, and a most worthy winner.

Paul Kelly, Gavin Magee, Stephen Morley, Carrie Lewis, Paul Cullen, Raquel Lozano

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20

Fergus Byrne, Technical Specialist, Quadient; Shauna Salmon, Anne Gavican & Kevin Condon, KPS Colour Print

PRINT FINISHING AWARD Sponsored by Quadient

KPS Colour Print - Spirorbis Book

Martin Lockley, Managing Director, Manroland Ireland Limited, Interpress representative

Newspaper Printer of the Year

Exemplifying what a ‘Print Finishing’ winning entry should be, KPS Colour Print is the deserving recipient of the 2021 Print Finishing Award for its Spirorbis Book entry. Judges commented on the lovely choice of binding work, “not to mention the blocking used in the book, which made for a well-finished, high quality piece.”

Sponsored by Manroland

Interpress NI - The Irish News A highly contested category, Interpress NI came out on top with ‘The Irish News’ to win the prestigious Newspaper Printer of the Year award. This print, said judges, included great solid images and vibrancy. “This print displayed excellent image quality. Overall, this is a fantastic, high quality product – faultless.”

The team at Label Tech

SELF ADHESIVE ROLL LABEL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Label Tech Ltd - The Whistler Mosaic Marsala Irish Whiskey One of two awards that Label Tech brought home, the print firm scooped Gold for its work on ‘The Whistler Mosaic Marsala Irish Whiskey’. The level of execution displayed by this piece, along with the quality of print and finishing, made Label Tech the most deserving winner in this category.

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21

Magazine Printer of the Year

Plus Print - FLASH edition 6

The Plus Print team

No stranger to the Irish Print Awards, Plus Print took home the coveted award for Magazine Printer of the Year at the 2021 event. Judges commented that every year, the print firm makes its presence known in this category. “Their attraction to detail is superb in every way. High quality production and strong imagery makes Plus Print a very worthy winner.”

Abby Burke, Darren Burke, Alan Shortt The team from Impress Printing Works; Chris Sandwell, Group Sales & Marketing Director EBB

SHEETFED COLOUR OFFSET PRINTER OF THE YEAR Impress Printing Works Ltd Grangegorman Public Art Book Sponsored by EBB Once again, Impress Printing Works took to the stage to collect an award for its work on its ‘Grangegorman Public Art Book’ entry. This is a print that illustrated great colour reproduction and consistent solids throughout. A most deserving recipient.

Flexo Packaging Printer of the Year Alert Packaging - Flahavan’s Original Granola This is the second Print Awards in a row where Alert Packaging has won the award for Flexo Packaging Printer of the Year. This time around, judges commended the print firm for its high quality of print and production, which included corrugated printing. “This is a piece that isn’t just fit for purpose; the quality of print and finishing is simply brilliant.”

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NeoGen team

Best Use of Print/Best Use of Technology/Reports & Accounts Printer of the Year NeoGen - FSI Annual Report 2019 NeoGen had cause for celebration at this year’s Irish Print Awards, coming out on top in several categories for its work on the FSI Annual Report 2019. Judges described the quality of finish of the report and the attention to detail that’s so evident throughout. A most deserving winner.

OUT OF HOME PRINTER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Irish Printing Federation

P+D - Brown Thomas DTC Wraps

Dermot Downer, Vice President, IPF; Ciaran Bowe, Manpreet Bawja, Victor Corjeoy

Describing P+D’s ‘Brown Thomas DTC Wraps’ entry as superb, judges commended the print firm for achieving such a high print quality on what was clearly a challenging project.

“The degree of difficulty, the level of execution, along with the creativity of print and finishing is faultless.”

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The Printed Image team

SPECIAL PACKAGING PRINTER OF THE YEAR The Printed Image - Heineken 0.0 Advent Calendar 2021 & 2022 Although a hotly contested category, judges were clear on who should bring home the Special Packaging Printer of the Year accolade at the 2021 Print Awards. This entry has a striking impact, while excellent use of materials made sure it stood out from the crowd.

Christina Forde

Print Graduate of the Year Christina Forde, McGowans Print

Duncan Sargeant, Xeikon/Flint Group; the Label World team

Christina’s application and exemplary performance has been recognised across all disciplines in her studies. She has excelled in the fields of professional development, technological understanding and all management disciplines equally.

DIGITAL PRINT LABEL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Xeikon/Flint Group

Label World - Mic’s Chilli Sauce Range A wholly original entry, Mic’s Chilli Sauce Range won Gold for Label World at the 2021 Irish Print Awards. This is, said judges, an entry that immediately catches the eye. It’s clever, unique and exceeds expectations – an entirely deserving winner in the Digital Print Label Printer of the Year category.

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24

The McGowans team

Digital Packaging Printer of the Year McGowans Print - Chinese New Year Chocolate Boxes Another addition to its haul at the 2021 Irish Print Awards, McGowans is the deserving winner of the Digital Packaging Printer of the Year award. With its ‘Chinese New Year Chocolate Boxes’, McGowans has created an eye-catching, fully sustainable, standout piece where attention to detail is evident. This is an entry that’s most deserving of an award, said judges.

Audrey Frost, Canon; Plus Print team

GRAPHIC DESIGN & PRINT COLLABORATION OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Canon

Plus Print Ltd - This Place An exemplary collaboration that demonstrates what can be achieved when you’re willing to develop and grow, Plus Print is the worthy winner of the Graphic Design & Print Collaboration of the Year award.

Judges commented on the innovation of the entry and the print firm’s eagerness to evolve and adapt its methods to offer only the best printing solutions.

BEST BUSINESS INNOVATION AWARD McGowans Print - Cardboard Magic

The team at McGowans

McGowans made several appearances on stage at the 2021 Print Awards, this time to collect the Best Business Innovation Award for its Cardboard Magic entry. The print firm showed great imagination with Cardboard Magic, an initiative that was a result of the effects of Covid. The standout winner in this competitive category.

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25 Large Format Digital Printer of the Year Sponsored by GPMI

McGowans Print Ectomobile WOW POS Display A true ‘Wow’ project, McGowans took home another accolade at the 2021 Print Awards, this time for its Ectomobile WOW POS Display. Judges commended the firm for going “above and beyond with this piece to meet a high standard, displaying consistency and attention to every detail.”

Karl Byrne, Sales Director Commercial Print- GPMI; team at McGowans

LEINSTER / DUBLIN SMALL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by HP

Print Media Services Ltd CONNACHT SMALL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by HP

MW Design, Print & Signs

Paddy Gallagher, Gerry Moore; Lyle Rainey – HP Indigo UK & Ireland Commercial Account Manager

Lyle Rainey, Denise McDonagh, Melissa Walsh

MUNSTER SMALL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by HP

Quality Print ULSTER SMALL PRINTER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by HP Freddie Snowe, Lyle Rainey

Freddie Snowe, Aaron Klwechuk, Lyle Raine

Ballyprint

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Growth

26

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

Multi-function finishing equipment is a longstanding area of expertise for Duplo, and the DC-648 is no exception.

TECHNOLOGY

ADVANCES T oday’s print service environment is more

Efficient, fast, and easy to use, the DC-648 produces a

competitive than ever, with providers

wide range of full-bleed applications from business

taking advantage of the wide variety of

cards to invitations, greeting cards, tickets and

technological advances in a quest to

coupons, plus a range of other marketing collateral

remain nimble and ahead of their

and direct mail applications. It’s colour touch panel

competition. Right across the cycle, the demand for

and newly designed PC controller make it simple to

tight turnarounds without compromising quality is

operate, reducing dependency on key personnel.

ever-present. This is coupled with the ongoing demand

Similarly, its versatility as a ‘finishing all-rounder’

for smaller volumes. Perhaps less predictably, the

reduces the resource to perform what would

pandemic has also left the impact of staff skillset

previously have required numerous staff operating

shortages or simply, fewer people on the production

multiple, manual finishing devices. Enhanced

floor. It has never been more important for print

features like the increased feeder capacity and waste

producers to reassess their full production environment

collection minimise interruptions and downtime.

to ensure they have the finishing capabilities to meet

Quadient’s General Manager for Graphics, Dave

thedemands of customers now and in the future.

Rainsford, says, “Multi-function finishing equipment

The arrival of the new Duplo DC-648 is a perfect

is a longstanding area of expertise for Duplo, and the

place to start, bringing the best cutting, creasing,

DC-648 is no exception. It’s loaded with versatility

and perforation technology to the Irish graphics

and new features to help printers expand their

market. Duplo’s newest mid-range finishing solution

capabilities and stay ahead of the competition. Users

has the ability to slit/cut/crease and perforate

can really bring precision finishing in-house and in

digitally-printed applications eliminating time-

turn grow their production volumes and profits.”

consuming, manual setups and make-ready times.

Find out more about the DC-648 and its applications at go.quadient.com/3ityc5U or call: 01 625 0906

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27 PRINT MEDIA APPRENTICE NI LEVEL 1 Sponsored by Alphagraphics

Lee Bradley, Northside Graphics Lee has clearly demonstrated evidence of outstanding personal aptitude working within the print media industry.

Declan Martin, Heidelberg Graphic Equipment, Melissa Walsh

Rising Star of the Year Sponsored by Heidelberg

Melissa Walsh Melissa Walsh has received awards for Young Entrepreneur of the Year, both regionally and nationally. As well as running her own business and employing six members of staff, she is also studying part-time in NUIG for a Master’s of Science in Business Leadership Development.

PRINT MEDIA APPRENTICE NI LEVEL 2 Sponsored by Alphagraphics

Thomas Branigan, Irish Defence Forces Thomas has grown to become an important member of the print finishing department in the Irish Defence Forces, with a consistent record of producing work of the highest quality.

PRINT MEDIA APPRENTICE NI LEVEL 3 Sponsored by Alphagraphics

Matthew McCracken, Alphagraphics Matthew has demonstrated evidence of outstanding personal growth, showing an aptitude for working within the print media industry.

Mathew McCracken, Thomas Branigan, Lee Bradley

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28 T H E L AS T WOR D

Materials from CMYUK have been specified for Paddy Power’s Dublin HQ

A Good Bet High spec eco wallcoverings and backlit materials from

worldwide offices to create an unmistakable and

CMYUK have been used in the remodelling and refurbishment

compelling Flutter environment,” said Seath Herbert,

of Flutter’s worldwide HQ in Dublin. As the building was built

Managing Director, Artwork Solutions.

in 1999, the project involved a significant amount of demolition

Artworks Solutions digitally printed graphics for over

and reconstruction from the ground up to transform it into a

40 walls across all seven storeys of Flutter’s flagship

contemporary and collaborative working space.

office. Due to the large amount of print required, it

According to Bristol-based Artworks Solutions who worked on

was keen to use products with an environmental edge.

the project, the client wanted a distinct ‘Flutter feel’ to its

Artworks presented Flutter with two eco-solutions:

Dublin HQ. “It wanted a concept that could be used across its

Kavalan Gecko 320GB and UFabrik Backlit Textile ECO FR, both exclusive to CMYUK. Kavalan Geko 320GB is a PVC-free, recyclable polyester-based textile and a good sustainable alternative for single piece wallcoverings and display systems. It has B1 and EN13501-1 fire ratings and meets the highest environmental standards including EN-71, 33P, ROHS, REACH and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approval. UFabrik Backlit Textile ECO FR was used in a prominent design feature of the building, a tunnel-effect corridor that connects the ground floor reception with the central atrium. Dramatic and moody walls are studded either side by lightboxes.

Sensor-controlled and activated by movement, these powerful LED illuminated printed images reveal themselves as staff and visitors walk by.

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Here comes the Sun...

Making ideas happen with a smaller carbon foot print.

At McGowans Print our mission is to deliver creative, innovative, functional POP and POS and at the same time driving sustainability in our day to day operations and continuously search the globe for total recyclable or recycled print materials.

Our latest initiative is to install solar panels that will cover most of the rooftop of our main factory. This will produce a projected 391,702kWh of energy that will give us 43% clean energy of our total consumption. This is the equivalent of 277 metric tons of CO2 saved annually. Our target is to be carbon neutral in five years.

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