HYBRID SERVICES
just for materials, but for choice, consistency and service. That’s something we’ve taken seriously from the outset.” Alongside this, the company’s Print Studio arm now delivers bespoke printed graphics, particularly for the events sector, but with an increasing customer base across other industries. “Event companies frequently have fantastic designers, but they’re often not printers. Having someone reliable who understands their needs can make all the difference,” Claire explains.
decision to invest in the Mimaki JFX2001213EX flatbed UV printer, purchased through authorised reseller Xpres following one of the company’s local events earlier this year. Having already seen the capabilities of the larger JFX200 model through a US-based contact, the team had high expectations. “The print quality from the Mimaki was incredible. There was just no comparison,” Claire recalls. “When we saw it up close and understood what it could do, it really stood out.”
With demand for custom print work increasing across both The Wee Rhubarb and TWR Acrylic, the team began exploring ways to bring more production in-house. Claire and Loren’s research spanned multiple technologies, including solvent and UV, but an earlier investment in a lower-cost UV DTF solution proved challenging. “We struggled with support,” says Claire. “We didn’t want to be stuck relying on web chats to another country when something went wrong. For us, having proper UK-based technical backup became essential.”
Of equal importance, the mid-size format of the JFX200-1213EX offered the flexibility they needed without limiting future growth. “We considered a smaller machine, but I knew we’d outgrow it quickly,” Claire explains. “The JFX200 gives us a longer-term solution with a larger bed size and faster production speeds. It just opens us up to so much more.”
That requirement played a key role in their
TWR Acrylic is already seeing steady growth in its print offering, with the ability to produce one-off jobs and bespoke personalised items proving particularly valuable. Ranging from highly detailed
event displays to retail signage, the new printer is enabling the company to expand its creative offering while supporting the wider growth of The Wee Rhubarb brand. A recent project highlights this perfectly: a wedding table plan featuring handdrawn caricatures of each guest. “This is exactly the kind of work we love doing,” says Claire. “It’s unique, personal, and shows what’s possible with the right technology behind you.” Looking ahead, Claire and Loren remain focused on growth and plan to launch their bespoke printed acrylic range in the next few months under the ‘Boundless by TWR’ brand. “Great customer service is in our DNA,” Claire concludes. “We listen to our customers and are committed to staying true to the principles that shaped the business from the start. We want to offer a fantastic product, backed by the kind of support we expect ourselves. The new Mimaki printer has given us the confidence to take that even further.” Visit: www.hybridservices.co.uk
LINTEC EUROPE ENHANCES PREMIUM FILM SAMPLING WITH MIMAKI UCJV330 INVESTMENT Standout Mimaki White Ink Leading manufacturer of premium self-adhesive films for architectural window graphics, Lintec Europe, has strengthened its UK demonstration and technical support capability with the installation of a Mimaki UCJV330-160 UV printer cutter at its High Wycombe headquarters. Part of the global Lintec Group, Lintec Europe supplies specialist window films used across commercial interiors, retail environments and corporate spaces. With a strong focus on innovation and performance, the business works closely with designers, specifiers and installers,
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TROPHY & ENGRAVING NEWS
making high-quality printed samples a vital part of how its products are evaluated and specified. Manufactured in a defect-free cleanroom environment, Lintec’s films are engineered to meet the exacting standards of architectural projects, where finish and consistency are critical.
Lintec Europe made the decision to replace its existing system through the need to improve the company’s confidence in its sample production. In seeking a solution that could better meet its requirements, Mimaki’s UCJV330-160 stood out, particularly for the performance of its white UV ink on Lintec’s own films. “Our films are designed to perform at a premium level, so the print quality has to match,” explains Lintec Europe Managing Director, Andy Voss. “The adhesion, scratch resistance and overall punch