OCTOBER 2026
OCTOBER 2026 VOLUME 43 NUMBER 10 MANAGING DIRECTOR Nigel Bean: e: nigelbean1@aol.com EDITOR, DESIGN & MARKETING Jane Soones: e: janesoones@aol.com or janesoones@hillmedia.com ADVERTISING SALES Nigel Bean: e: nigelbean1@aol.com CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTION t: +44 (0) 1442 826826
Main Office Telephone: +44 (0) 1442 826826 Hill Media Ltd, Marash House 2-5 Brook Street, Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 5ED, United Kingdom. TEN magazine is published 12 times (6 printed issues and 6 digital issues) a year by Hill Media Ltd. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in TEN Magazine, Hill Media Ltd and its agents accept no responsibility for the veracity of claims made by contributors, manufacturers or advertisers. Copyright in all material published in TEN magazine, including but not limited to all Hill Media brands, brand logos, trademarks, and associated assets, remains with Hill Media Ltd and its agents.. © Hill Media Ltd – 2026 ISSN 2632-5373
TEN Magazine is available on subscription: UK Mainland Europe Other Countries TEN magazine is published by Hill Media Ltd.
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HPC LASER HPC LASER CELEBRATES A FANTASTIC YEAR OF OPEN DAYS!
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TEN TALKS CHRISTMAS MORE THAN TROPHIES: MAKING THE MOST OF THE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING SEASON
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TEN ASKS - WHO ARE THE UK TROPHY WHOLESALERS UK TROPHY WHOLESALERS: THE BUSINESSES BEHIND THE AWARDS
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DIAMOND ENGRAVERS THE FUTURE OF ENGRAVING - By David Webster BA, MSc
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TEN TALKS PERSONALISATION MAKE CHRISTMAS PERSONAL: THE OPPORTUNITIES OF SUBLIMATION PRINTING
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MYACCESSORIES MY-ACCESSORIES NEW RESOURCE CENTRE: HELPING PERSONALISATION BUSINESSES GET ARTWORK RIGHT Templates, design guides and videos designed to make the personalisation process easier
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AMAYA SALES UK STITCHING TOGETHER NEW OPPORTUNITIES: Why Embroidery Is a Great Choice for Personalisation
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HPC LASER HPC LASER PROUD TO SUPPORT SUCCESSFUL LAUNCH OF LEEDS UNITED FOUNDATION YOUTH HUB
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TROTEC LASER WHY PRODUCTION STRATEGY IS BECOMING A GROWTH FACTOR FOR ENGRAVING BUSINESSES
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SUPPLIES & SERVICES
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HPC LASER
HPC LASER CELEBRATES A FANTASTIC YEAR OF OPEN DAYS! And it’s not all been about the machines! Exciting product launches, fantastic visitors, live demonstrations and some seriously good Yorkshire food have made it a year to remember at HPC Laser! HPC Laser is celebrating a brilliant 12 months of Open Days, held every two months at its Halifax headquarters, welcoming customers and visitors from across the UK for a closer look at the latest laser technology. It’s been a busy and exciting year, with highlights including the launches of the Bodor A Series, Bodor P3 and Bodor Tube Cutter, giving visitors the chance to see some impressive new machines in action. Across the events, guests have enjoyed live demonstrations of laser cutting, engraving, welding and cleaning, with plenty of opportunities to bring their own materials, chat with the experts and discover how the technology could benefit their businesses
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TROPHY & ENGRAVING NEWS
A big part of the Open Days’ success has been the friendly, relaxed atmosphere, the chance to meet the HPC Laser team and, of course, the fantastic food! Otley Burger Company and Fast Feast have served up some outstanding catering, while the magnificent sausage rolls from Lishmans Butchers have certainly gone down a treat!
Steve Cockerham, Managing Director of HPC Laser, commented: “What a fantastic year it’s been! We’ve been over the moon to welcome so many visitors through our doors, and it’s brilliant to see so much enthusiasm for the technology we’re showcasing. Our Open Days are all about making people feel welcome, giving them the chance to see the machines working, ask questions and have a proper chat with our team.
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No pressure, no hard sell, just great technology, good people and some excellent food! A massive thank you to everyone who’s joined us, our brilliant catering partners and the whole HPC Laser team for making these events such a success. We can’t wait to do it all again!”
Al Sullivan, Marketing Manager at HPC Laser, added: “I genuinely love organising these Open Days. It’s great seeing so many people coming along, having a good chat with the team, enjoying the demonstrations and, of course, tucking into some fantastic food! We’ve got a great mix of cutting-edge technology, friendly advice and good old Yorkshire hospitality, and I think that’s what makes our Open Days so special. Here’s to another brilliant year of Open Days, plenty more happy visitors and, of course, lots more cracking grub!”
HPC Laser has confirmed that its Early Winter Open Day will take place on Tuesday 24th November at the HPC Laser HQ in Halifax. To find out more about the event, visit www.hpclaser.co.uk/hpc-open-days/ or call 01422 310800.
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TROPHY & ENGRAVING NEWS
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TEN TALKS CHRISTMAS
MORE THAN TROPHIES: MAKING THE MOST OF THE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING SEASON By Jane Soones, Editor, TEN Magazine With Christmas just around the corner, now is the time to give your shop windows and displays a festive refresh and remind customers that trophy retailers have plenty to offer beyond traditional awards. In our previous feature, we looked at the elements that make a great trophy or award, from choosing the right materials to getting the design and personalisation just right. But what happens when that award reaches the shop floor? How you display your products, the options you offer and the way you present them to customers can all make a difference to sales. With the Christmas shopping season approaching, there is an opportunity to show customers that your business offers much more than trophies for sporting presentations. Personalised gifts, engraved keepsakes, plaques and contemporary awards can all appeal to shoppers looking for something a little different. And if you haven’t started preparing your shop for Christmas yet, don’t panic – but now is the time to get sorted!
Make your shop window work harder
who comes in looking for one thing will leave with something completely different simply because you’ve shown them what’s possible.
Think beyond the traditional trophy Most trophy retailers will have an established customer base, whether that’s local sports clubs, schools, dance academies, businesses or community organisations. But are you making the most of the other opportunities these customers present? A customer who regularly orders trophies for a sports club might also need medals, plaques or presentation accessories. A local business could be looking for employee recognition awards or long-service gifts. And someone walking past your shop at Christmas might never have considered buying a personalised gift from a trophy retailer. Products such as glass and crystal awards, acrylic designs, engraved plaques and decorative keepsakes can appeal to customers looking for something more individual than a conventional gift. The important thing is to show people what’s available. If customers only associate your business with sporting trophies, they may not realise you can also help with personalised gifts, corporate awards and other special occasions.
Your shop window is often the first thing potential customers see, so why not use it to show them what you have to offer?
Christmas provides a timely reason to promote these options, both in your shop and through your website and social media.
Rather than simply displaying rows of trophies, think about creating a festive display that highlights the variety of products available. Engraved glassware, personalised keepsakes, decorative awards and smaller gift ideas could all help attract attention and encourage passers-by to take a closer look.
Give customers plenty of choice
You don’t necessarily need to invest in new stock to make an impact. Take a fresh look at the products you already have. Could you rearrange your display, group similar items together or demonstrate how a standard product can be transformed with a personalised inscription? A little thought can go a long way. Adding some seasonal decoration, introducing a dedicated Christmas gift section or displaying examples of engraving could give existing products a fresh appeal. Don’t forget the inside of your shop, either. Make it easy for customers to browse, see prices and understand the personalisation options available. Sometimes, a customer
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TROPHY & ENGRAVING NEWS
Having a good range of products is important, but that doesn’t mean you need to stock everything. Customers have different budgets and tastes, so offering a selection of price points and styles can help you cater for a wider audience. Some will be looking for an affordable gift, while others may want something more substantial for a special occasion. Think about how you present those choices. Grouping products by price, style or purpose can make it easier for customers to find what they’re looking for. Showing a few examples of different finishes or personalisation options can also help them appreciate the possibilities. It’s worth looking at your existing range with fresh eyes. Which products sell particularly well? Are there items that customers regularly ask for? And are there products you already stock that could be promoted differently?
You may find that the opportunity isn’t necessarily to buy more stock, but to make better use of what you already have.
Personalisation can make all the difference One of the biggest advantages trophy retailers have is the ability to personalise products. A name, date, message or company logo can turn a standard item into something much more meaningful. This is particularly relevant at Christmas, when shoppers are often looking for gifts that feel personal. An engraved keepsake or personalised award can offer something different from the usual high-street gift. If you offer engraving in-house, make sure customers know about it. If you work with a supplier to provide personalisation, consider how you can promote the service and explain the options available.
Examples are often more effective than words alone. Displaying an engraved product alongside an unpersonalised version can demonstrate the difference and help customers imagine what they could create. Of course, it’s important to be realistic about turnaround times, particularly during the Christmas rush. Make sure customers know when they need to place their orders and provide any artwork or wording. Checking names and details carefully before production can also save time and avoid unnecessary mistakes.
Make the most of your suppliers Your suppliers and wholesalers are an important part of your business, providing access to a wide range of products, different price points and specialist services. It’s worth taking the time to keep up to date with what they offer. You may discover a new range, an alternative product or a personalisation option that could be useful to your customers.
TROPHY & ENGRAVING NEWS
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TEN TALKS CHRISTMAS
With Christmas approaching, check availability and delivery times for any products you plan to promote, particularly those requiring engraving or other finishing work. Knowing what’s available will help you answer enquiries confidently and avoid promising delivery dates that cannot be met. The UK supplier biographies featured in this issue of TEN are a useful starting point. Take a look at the companies featured, explore their product ranges and see whether there is anything that could complement your existing offering. Even if you’ve worked with the same suppliers for years, it’s always worth seeing what’s new and finding out what else they can offer.
A little planning goes a long way As well as preparing your Christmas displays, it’s worth thinking about the wider calendar of events that bring customers through your doors. School presentations, sporting seasons, annual competitions and corporate celebrations all create opportunities for trophy retailers. Looking back at previous orders can help you identify when demand is likely to increase and which products are worth promoting at particular times of the year. Keeping in touch with regular customers can also help. A reminder to a club secretary ahead of an annual presentation, for example, could lead to another order, while a business customer might appreciate being shown new options for employee recognition.
And don’t overlook social media. Photographs of finished awards, examples of engraving and ideas for personalised gifts can help showcase your work to existing customers and introduce your business to new ones. You don’t need an elaborate marketing campaign. Sometimes, simply reminding people what you do and showing them what you can offer is enough to generate interest.
Make your products stand out With Christmas just around the corner, now is the time to take a fresh look at your shop and consider how you can make the most of the festive shopping season. A refreshed window, a few well-presented gift ideas and a reminder of your personalisation services could help attract customers who might not otherwise think of visiting a trophy retailer. And the benefits needn’t stop when Christmas is over. By showing customers the full range of products and services you offer, you could encourage them to return for sporting presentations, corporate awards and other special occasions throughout the year. After all, it’s not just about the trophies you sell, but the ideas, choices and personal touches you offer your customers. Jane Soones - Editor, TEN Magazine
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TEN ASKS - WHO ARE THE UK TROPHY WHOLESALERS?
UK TROPHY WHOLESALERS: THE BUSINESSES BEHIND THE AWARDS If you run a trophy, engraving or awards business, you’ll know just how important your wholesalers are. They are the people behind the scenes who help keep our businesses stocked, give us plenty of choice and, very often, come to the rescue when we need something quickly! There are a number of established trophy wholesalers and suppliers serving the UK market, and although many offer similar products, each has its own strengths, specialisms and approach to the trade. I thought it would be interesting to take a look at eight of the names supplying the UK market and find out a little more about the businesses behind the products we use every day.
Award Designer Award Designer specialises in creating bespoke trophies and awards designed around a customer’s individual requirements. From awards created from company logos and specific themes to
commissioned pieces and contemporary sculptures, the company offers a creative approach to award design and manufacture. Using a combination of materials and techniques, including 3D printing, laser cutting, engraving and sustainable materials such as bamboo, Award Designer can produce distinctive pieces that are tailored to each brief. The company also offers sustainable award options, combining bamboo with 3D-printed elements to create personalised and eye-catching designs. With a focus on bespoke design, Award Designer works from the initial concept through to the finished award, helping customers create something unique rather than selecting from a standard range. Website: awarddesigner.co
CEBRIAN UK LTD
Cebrian Cebrian is a familiar name within the trophy and awards trade, with medals forming an important part of its offering. Alongside medals, the company supplies trophies, cups, resin and glass awards, medal cases and ribbons, giving retailers a variety of options across sporting, commemorative and other award requirements. Bespoke work is also part of the Cebrian offering. For retailers, the ability to source something created specifically for an event or customer can be particularly useful when a standard catalogue product isn’t quite what is required. That combination of ready-to-order products and more individual options gives trophy retailers and engravers greater flexibility when responding to customer enquiries — particularly those slightly more unusual requests where something a little different is needed. Website: cebrian.co.uk
Crystal Galleries Crystal Galleries has carved out a distinctive place within the awards industry, with glass and crystal very much at the heart of its business. The family-run company supplies an extensive selection of glass and crystal blanks, finished and engraved awards and gifts, as well as engraving equipment and associated supplies. Its customers include trophy retailers, glass engravers,
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TROPHY & ENGRAVING NEWS
TEN ASKS - WHO ARE THE UK TROPHY WHOLESALERS
promotional distributors and corporate gifting businesses. With more than 1,400 products featured in its catalogue, there’s plenty of choice, and the company can also supply bespoke glass and crystal awards. For businesses carrying out their own engraving, Crystal Galleries also offers equipment and consumables. Glass and crystal are a natural fit for many areas of the awards market, from sporting achievements to corporate recognition, and Crystal Galleries’ specialist focus gives retailers a dedicated source for this side of the industry. Website: crystalgalleries.co.uk
Crystech (UK) Ltd Crystech (UK) Ltd has been supplying the trophy and awards trade since 1994, building a strong reputation for its extensive range of medals and accessories. The company operates strictly as a trade-only wholesaler, supplying trophy retailers and other businesses rather than selling directly to the public. Its range includes a wide selection of medals and centre holders, covering everything from popular sporting events to achievement and commemorative occasions. Alongside its standard medal ranges, Crystech also offers a bespoke service, producing specially commissioned medals, ribbons, pins and coins to customers’ own designs. This can be particularly useful for retailers looking to offer something more personal or create a completely unique award for a particular event or organisation. The range also extends to woven ribbons, presentation boxes, crystal and glass awards, giving retailers plenty of options to complement their medal requirements. Based in Staffordshire, Crystech continues to focus on providing quality products alongside prompt, reliable service and personal attention — something that remains particularly important when supplying the busy trophy and awards trade. Website: crystech-uk.co.uk
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TROPHY & ENGRAVING NEWS
choice matters, of course, but so do availability, personalisation and being able to get what you need when you need it.
Glenway Glenway is an established supplier within the UK trophy and awards trade, offering products for retailers and businesses serving the awards market. Its range gives trophy retailers and engravers another source when selecting awards for their customers, whether they are looking for sporting trophies, medals or products for other recognition occasions. Choice is particularly important in today’s market. Traditional trophies remain a firm favourite, especially within sport, but customers are also looking for different styles and designs to suit everything from grassroots competitions to larger presentations and events. For retailers, having a choice of wholesalers is an important part of running a successful awards business. It means being able to compare products, styles and availability and, ultimately, find the right award for the customer standing on the other side of the counter. Glenway remains one of the names serving that UK trade market. Website: glenway.co.uk
Goodwill Trophy Company Goodwill Trophy Company is based in the West Midlands and supplies trophies and medals to the trade. Its range covers a variety of sporting and award products, together with the components and engraving supplies that are such an important part of our industry. This can be particularly useful when you’re putting together an award yourself or simply need that one component to complete an order. Goodwill also provides an engraving service and offers next-day delivery to most parts of the UK. That combination of products and practical services can be especially valuable when an order arrives with a tight deadline — something I’m sure most people in our industry have experienced! For a busy trophy or engraving business, having suppliers that understand the realities of the trade is important. Product
Goodwill maintains a clear and strategic focus on the retail trade, ensuring that all social media activity is strictly aligned and only targeted toward qualified trophy retail customers. Website: goodwilltrophy.co.uk
SDL Group SDL Group is an interesting business because its roots are firmly within the trophy industry, but the business has developed into something much broader over the years. Beginning life as SDL Trophies, the company went on to expand into other areas of sport, including sports equipment and teamwear, as well as associated markets. More recently, the business has entered another stage in its development. SDL Sports Brands Ltd officially launched in April 2026, bringing together Gaelic Armour, Surridge Sports and SDL Trophy. It’s a good example of how a business can grow beyond its original market while retaining the experience and connections built there. SDL Trophy remains part of that wider sporting family, maintaining the link with the awards industry from which the business originally grew. For those of us working within the trade, it’s always interesting to see how businesses adapt as markets and customer requirements change — and how those original industry roots can continue to form part of a much bigger story. Website: sdlgroupltd.com
Trophy Distributors Trophy Distributors is another wellestablished supplier to the UK trophy trade, with a range that goes beyond finished trophies. As well as complete awards, the company supplies component parts,
customer request that we weren’t quite sure how to fulfil!
shields, cups and glassware, giving retailers and engravers plenty of scope when choosing or creating awards for their customers. Components are perhaps one of the less glamorous parts of the trophy business, but anyone working in the industry knows just how useful they are! Being able to change a figure, base, centre or another element can turn a standard award into something that feels much more personal. The company operates from substantial warehouse facilities in Aldridge, Walsall, reflecting the importance of stockholding within trophy wholesale. Ultimately, having a broad range available is one of the biggest advantages a wholesaler can offer. When a customer needs something quickly, being able to find the right product — or the right parts to create it — can make all the difference. Website: trophydistributors.co.uk
Looking at these eight businesses, one thing becomes clear: there’s much more to trophy wholesale than simply sending out boxes of trophies. Of course, having the right products in stock and getting them delivered when we need them will always be at the heart of the business. But today’s suppliers offer much more alongside that. Personalisation, bespoke products, glass and crystal, components and an evergrowing choice of designs have all become part of the mix. And perhaps that’s what makes the relationship between a trophy retailer and its wholesalers so important. We rely on them not just for products, but for choice, availability and sometimes a solution to a
The eight companies featured here are all different, and that’s really the point. Different suppliers bring different strengths to the industry, whether that’s medals, glass and crystal, components, sporting trophies, corporate awards, personalisation or simply having a broad range readily available. For retailers and engravers, having that choice is invaluable. One supplier won’t necessarily be the answer to every job, and having a good knowledge of what each has to offer helps us find the right solution for our customers. Ultimately, that’s what our industry is all about — creating something that marks an achievement, celebrates an occasion or gives someone a lasting reminder of something they’ve worked hard to accomplish. Jane Soones Author & Editor, TEN Magazine
TROPHY & ENGRAVING NEWS
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DIAMOND ENGRAVERS
THE FUTURE OF ENGRAVING By David Webster BA, MSc Diamond Engravers Over the past 15 years, Diamond Engravers has invested in the latest technology in design software and engraving machines to be able to service the sectors that most small home engravers and trophy shops cannot service. This includes the ability to engrave complex shapes like spheres, cones, true 3D profile engraving, 360-degree engraving, 3D modelling and creation of STL and OBJ files from standard image files. The use of AI has increased dramatically with business and retail customers presenting AI images asking us to engrave them. When properly managed AI can create engrave-ready artwork from simple text, even photos and asking AI to produce text ready artwork for engraving.
We had a job where a customer presented us with an old trophy with over 50 names and dates engraved, the customer wanted the base replaced as it was damaged, we photographed all the engraving and requested AI to produce the details in a suitable text format. It took 15 seconds. We would have spent 30 minutes typing up the names and then checking them. Various platforms can convert AI images, photos and even low-resolution sketches in scalable vector files that the engraver can utilise for laser or diamond drag engraving. Engraving using technology such as wrap functionality, or 360 degrees engraving
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TROPHY & ENGRAVING NEWS
with-out split lines, typical of most engraving systems using rotary, where we as a company have invested in true 3D engraving technology. Some examples of the sort work we can undertake is shown in the photos. 3D relief engraving still requires expertise in CAD, 3D sculpting or greyscale mapping but AI algorithms also the ability to convert 2D data into depth models and STL files. Another job we had recently was to index graduations at 0.01 mm around 360 degrees on a 100 mm diameter steel ring. The last tick had to match up to the first tick, this meant no split lines and a continuous rotation to ensure the spread and tick lines were
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identical. We used AI to produce a Python code script which enabled us to create a dxf file with the exact measurements needed to create the 360 degrees engraving.
Organic Engraving Most engravers starting out will buy a CO2 laser or a diamond drag machine and will be able to tackle simple projects but there are of course limitations, C02 lasers in particular generate heat, this is not ideal when you are trying to engrave wood, this results in a high resin build up or charcoal effect, requiring additional clean up work. When engraving leather, the odour and scorching is an issue and without proper care can catch fire. When engraving glass, the C02 laser fractures the glass using thermal shock caused by extreme localised heat from the laser beam. This causes tiny, microscopic fractures on the glass surface. If the power is too high or the speed is too slow, these fractures can become jagged shards, which makes the the engraved area feel rough, sharp, very often prone to chipping. Glass is not chemically uniform. Sodalime glass engraves with a relatively clean, white frosted look. However,
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TROPHY & ENGRAVING NEWS
high-end crystal or leaded glass supplied by many of our wholesalers reacts terribly to CO2 lasers causing the metal content inside the glass to expand at different rates which leads to uneven, dull, or skipping engraving marks rather than a smooth opaque finish. Of course, traditional sandblasting overcomes this but even this is flawed when you are attempting small fine detail with the mask blowing off or the tiny letters of an A missing the centre part. So, what has changed in laser technology to overcome some of the typical issues faced with C02 and other systems.
Cool laser technology Cool laser technology or UV compared to diode or C02 lasers uses cold processing pf the laser source to disrupt the chemical bonds of a substrate compared to melting leading to no soot deposits, virtually no burning, more precision and detail in the engraving. Us-ing a wavelength of 355 nm cool lasers can engrave inside the glass without fracturing the exterior. They also can mark delicate materials like plastics, ceramics, silicone and foodstuffs with immaculate detail. C02 gantry lasers use a system of belts and tracks to physically slide the laser head left, right, up, and down. Galvo type lasers keep the laser head stationary. Instead, they use mirrors to deflect the laser beam. Mirrors
move much faster than a gantry. Galvo lasers can engrave at substantially higher speeds and compared to a hobby machine that might take 20 minutes a professional machine can take seconds. Professional UV lasers use a chiller to cool the laser source, hobby machines 3 and 5 watt use heat sinks and fans to keep the laser source cooler. A 10-watt industrial laser requires a chiller to prevent wavelength drift which causes blurring and deformation of the engraving. The small engraver trying to run a 3 or 5 watt machine all day puts a heavy strain of the crystals and life of the machine and a 10 watt machine can run up to 5 times faster and between 50-60% of the power required to undertake the same job.
Services and support Diamond Engravers provide support to the home or small engraver, who may not want to invest heavily in new equipment or just have the odd one or two jobs which they would usually turn away. This covers metals and organic engraving on the flat and ro-tary, with the design capabilities to create the right type of file for the job. It may be a simple conversion of a jpeg to a dxf file, or creation of a 3d stl file for contour engraving. Whenever possible the company will try to assist engravers with a technical issue or help with a project. The company offers special services for urgent jobs from a same day, 24 hrs or weekly schedules for any customer. Just email sales@diamondengravers.co.uk with any of your questions. Visit: www,diamondengravers.co.uk
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TEN TALKS PERSONALISATION
MAKE CHRISTMAS PERSONAL: THE OPPORTUNITIES OF SUBLIMATION PRINTING With Christmas fast approaching, now is the time to look beyond traditional trophies and awards and make the most of the opportunities offered by personalised gifts. From photo mugs and festive decorations to coasters and keepsakes, sublimation printing gives retailers a way to offer customers something a little more personal.
Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year for personalised gifts. Customers are looking for presents that mean something, whether it is a mug featuring a favourite photograph, a decoration marking a baby’s first Christmas or a gift carrying a special message. For businesses already working in the trophy, awards and personalisation industry, sublimation offers plenty of possibilities. It allows retailers to expand their product range, make use of existing personalisation skills and offer customers something different from the traditional engraved award.
More than mugs and coasters When people think of sublimation, mugs are often one of the first products that spring to mind. They remain a popular choice, particularly when personalised with photographs, names, messages or colourful designs. However, there is much more to explore. Christmas decorations are an obvious opportunity. Personalised hanging decorations featuring family photographs, names, dates or festive messages can make thoughtful gifts and are ideal for customers looking for something individual. They can also be suitable for family occasions, including a baby’s first Christmas, a couple’s first Christmas together or a special family celebration. Other products worth considering include coasters, placemats, photo panels, keyrings, bag tags and selected drinkware. Polyester cushions and other suitable textile products can also provide opportunities for colourful designs and photographic personalisation. The important thing is to choose products that suit your customers and complement the services you already offer. A trophy retailer working with schools, sports clubs and local organisations may find opportunities in personalised gifts for coaches, team members and volunteers,
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TEN TALKS PERSONALISATION
while a business serving the general public could focus on family gifts and seasonal keepsakes. There is no need to offer everything. A carefully chosen range of products can be easier to promote, manage and produce, particularly during the Christmas rush.
What makes sublimation different? Sublimation printing uses specialist inks, transfer paper, heat and pressure to transfer a design onto a suitable product. During the process, the ink bonds with polyester fibres or a suitable polymer coating on a compatible hard surface. This makes it possible to reproduce photographs, colourful artwork, logos and detailed designs on a wide range of products. Unlike some other personalisation methods, sublimation can cover a large printable area, making it particularly useful for full-colour designs. For retailers, this opens up opportunities to offer products that would be difficult to achieve through engraving alone. Photographs, family illustrations and colourful Christmas designs can all be part of the finished product, providing customers with more choice. However, it is important to select the right blanks. Traditional dye sublimation requires polyester fabric or a hard product with a suitable polymer coating. An ordinary ceramic mug or an untreated cotton T-shirt will not produce the expected result simply because it can withstand heat. Always check that the product is designed for sublimation and follow the supplier’s instructions.
Getting the design right Having the equipment and suitable products is only part of the process. Good design is what helps a personalised gift stand out. Photographs are particularly popular, but the image needs to be suitable for the finished product. A photograph that looks good on a computer screen may not reproduce as well when printed onto a small decoration or curved mug. Check image quality, cropping and positioning before production. Names and messages also need careful consideration. Make sure text is easy to read and that important details are not
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placed too close to the edges or handles. A simple design with a well-chosen photograph and a clear message can be just as effective as something more elaborate. Colour is another consideration. Christmas designs naturally lend themselves to traditional reds, greens, golds and silvers, but there is also room for more contemporary styles, including neutral colours, minimalist graphics and personalised illustrations. For retailers, offering a selection of design ideas can help customers make a decision. Examples showing different layouts, fonts and personalisation options can be particularly useful for those who know what they want to give but are unsure how to create it.
Quality matters, especially at Christmas During the Christmas period, customers are often working to a deadline. A personalised gift needs to look right, be produced correctly and be ready when promised. Getting the technical process right is essential. Printer, ink, transfer paper, heat press and blank product need to be compatible, and pressing instructions will vary depending on the substrate and equipment being used. Temperature, pressure and pressing time should always follow the relevant manufacturer’s guidance. It is also worth testing unfamiliar products before offering them to customers. Different blanks can behave differently under heat, and a small test run can help identify issues before committing to a larger order.
Artwork must be prepared correctly, including mirroring designs where required. Transfers need to be secured properly to help prevent movement and unwanted ghosting during pressing. Once produced, each item should be checked for colour, image quality, alignment and any visible defects. Personalised products cannot always be resold if a name is spelt incorrectly or a photograph is cropped badly. Checking customer details and artwork before production can save time, materials and unnecessary disappointment.
Making the most of the Christmas trade By October, many businesses will already have their Christmas stock in place. The focus now is on making the most of the products available and giving customers ideas for what they could buy. A display of finished sublimation products can be far more effective than simply showing blank items or pictures in a catalogue. A personalised mug, a photo decoration and a colourful coaster set can demonstrate what is possible and help customers visualise the finished gift.
TEN TALKS PERSONALISATION
Shop windows, counters and display shelves are all worth considering. Grouping products by occasion or recipient can make the range easier to browse. For example, a display could feature gifts for grandparents, family keepsakes, pet lovers or people who want to mark a special occasion. Photography is also useful for social media and websites. Showing finished products helps customers understand the quality and possibilities of sublimation, while examples of different designs can encourage enquiries. Be sure to obtain permission before using customers’ personal photographs or finished orders in promotional material. Clear ordering deadlines are particularly important in the run-up to Christmas. Let customers know when personalised orders need to be placed and be realistic about production times. If you offer a choice of products, explain which options are available and how customers can supply photographs, names or messages.
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Complementing traditional personalisation Sublimation does not have to replace the engraving and personalisation services a business already offers. It can sit alongside them. A retailer might continue to offer engraved trophies, medals and plaques while adding full-colour photographic gifts and festive decorations to the range. Different techniques suit different products, and having more options allows businesses to respond to a wider variety of customer requests. It is also worth speaking to suppliers about the sublimation products they offer, including available shapes, finishes and sizes. A supplier may have options that are not currently part of your range, or samples that could help you decide which products are worth introducing. For businesses that already have sublimation equipment, Christmas can be a good opportunity to make more use of it. For those considering the process,
starting with a small selection of suitable products may be a sensible way to explore customer demand.
A personal touch that sells Personalisation gives customers a reason to choose something more individual than an off-the-shelf present. Sublimation adds another dimension, allowing photographs, colourful designs and meaningful messages to become part of the finished product. For trophy retailers and other businesses in the personalisation trade, the opportunity is to show customers what is possible, make the most of the products already available and offer ideas that go beyond traditional awards. With Christmas approaching, a wellpresented range of personalised gifts could provide a useful addition to the business — and give customers something a little more meaningful to put under the tree. Jane Soones Author & Editor, TEN Magazine
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MYACCESSORIES
MY-ACCESSORIES NEW RESOURCE CENTRE: HELPING PERSONALISATION BUSINESSES GET ARTWORK RIGHT Templates, design guides and videos designed to make the personalisation process easier Getting artwork right is an important part of producing a quality personalised product. Whether it is a photo keyring, magnet, coaster, photo frame or one of the many other products available to personalisation businesses, the finished result starts with correctly prepared artwork. To help its trade customers simplify this process, My-Accessories has launched a new online Resource Centre, bringing together artwork templates, design guides, how to videos and FAQs in one dedicated area of its website. The new resource has been created specifically to support businesses working with their blank products and producing their own personalised products, everything you need all in one place.
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Start with the right template One of the biggest advantages of the Resource Centre is the collection of ready-to-use artwork templates. Rather than having to work out the correct insert dimensions for each product from scratch, customers can
find templates based around different product insert shapes and sizes. Templates can be downloaded and used with the customers own design software such as Photoshop and Illustrator, while many are also available to open and edit in well-known online software Canva.
YOUR TRADE SUPPLIER FOR BLANK PHOTO PRODUCTS At My-Accessories, we supply a wide range of blank products to businesses looking to create personalised giftss and keepsakes for resale. From photo keyrings and magnets to photo frames, ames, coasters and badge-making equipment, our range offers plenty of opportunities to expand your product offering and meet your customers’ personalisation needs. We're here to make it as easy as possible for you to produce quality products.
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Understanding these details can make a significant difference to the finished product. For example, adding the correct bleed helps prevent unwanted white edges when artwork is cut, while keeping important text and imagery within the safe area helps ensure that key parts of the design are not lost within the finished product.
Learn with step-by-step videos For customers who prefer visual guidance, the Resource Centre includes how-to videos covering products and production systems, including creating personalised metal keyrings using the KeyringFab System and producing button badges using their high-quality G Series Badge System. These step-by-step resources provide an easy way for businesses to familiarise themselves with the production process and can also be useful when introducing new products or systems into a business.
A growing resource for the trade
This gives businesses a straightforward starting point for adding photographs, logos, text and other design elements before preparing their artwork for printing. For businesses producing personalised gifts in volume, having correctly sized templates readily available can help reduce preparation time and provide greater consistency across orders.
Avoid common artwork problems The Resource Centre also provides practical guidance on some of the most common artwork issues encountered during production. Guides cover important considerations including bleed, safe areas, artwork dimensions and image resolution
The Resource Centre is designed to be more than a collection of downloads. It provides My-Accessories customers with a central place to find practical information whenever they need help preparing artwork or producing personalised products. With new products, templates, guides and videos able to be added over time, the Resource Centre will continue to grow alongside the My-Accessories product range. An all-in-one place to produce your own cost-effective personalised products quickly and easily. Find out more at www.my-accessories.co.uk
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Professional & affordable laser cutting and engraving solutions *Included as standard: Auto-focus Integrated cooling system Integrated air assist Lightburn laser software 4K camera Class 1 laser safety enclosure 12 months warranty Unlimited technical support
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AMAYA SALES UK
STITCHING TOGETHER NEW OPPORTUNITIES: Why Embroidery Is a Great Choice for Personalisation From teamwear and workwear to personalised gifts and promotional products, embroidery offers businesses an attractive way to add value to everyday items. For trophy retailers and personalisation specialists, it could also open the door to new customers and additional revenue streams. Personalisation is about giving customers something individual, and embroidery is a great way to achieve this. Adding a name, logo or design can transform an everyday product into something distinctive, with a professional finish that lasts. For businesses already working in the trophy, awards and engraving industry, it provides another way to build on existing skills and give customers more choice.
More than just a logo on a polo shirt Branded clothing is an obvious starting point, but embroidery has plenty of other applications. Hoodies, jackets, caps, bags, towels and selected gifts can all be personalised, depending on the product and equipment used.
Think about existing customers. A local sports club ordering trophies and medals may also need embroidered training tops or jackets. Schools could require branded clothing, while local businesses may want workwear carrying their logo. Personalised bags, towels and blankets can also make thoughtful gifts for birthdays, Christmas and other special occasions. By offering these products alongside traditional awards and engraving, retailers can provide a more complete service to the customers they already know.
Why choose embroidery? One of embroidery’s biggest attractions is its textured, professional appearance. Stitched designs can give garments and accessories a premium feel, making the process particularly suitable for logos, lettering, names and monograms. It is not the best option for every design. Photographic images and intricate, full-colour artwork may be better suited to printing. However, when customers want a durable, textured finish, embroidery is well worth considering. Offering different personalisation methods allows businesses to
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recommend the right solution for each product.
Choosing the right equipment For businesses considering embroidery, choosing the right equipment starts with understanding the products they want to personalise and the orders they expect to handle. Production capacity, workspace and future growth all need to be considered. Amaya Sales UK supplies Melco commercial embroidery machines, including the Bravo X, EMT16X and Summit, catering for businesses with different production requirements. The modular EMT16X, for example, allows businesses to start with one machine and expand as demand grows. Training and technical support are also important, particularly for those new to embroidery. Correct artwork preparation, suitable stabilising materials and careful positioning all contribute to a quality finish.
Adding another string to your bow Embroidery can complement existing services such as trophies, medals and engraving, helping businesses meet more of their customers’ needs. From club clothing and corporate workwear to personalised Christmas gifts, there is plenty to consider when extending a product range. Start by looking at what customers already buy and which additional products would suit their needs. For more information about Melco embroidery machines, training and support, visit www.amayauk.com. Jane Soones Author & Editor, TEN Magazine
www.ronamachines.co.uk
Free delivery, installation and basic training of any NEW Roland DE-3 Engraver within a radius of 100 miles
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HPC LASER
HPC LASER PROUD TO SUPPORT SUCCESSFUL LAUNCH OF LEEDS UNITED FOUNDATION YOUTH HUB HPC Laser has praised the Leeds United Foundation following the successful launch of its new Youth Hub, with the company proud to support an initiative designed to create positive opportunities for young people across Leeds. The Youth Hub is a joint initiative between the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and Leeds United Foundation, harnessing the strength of the Leeds United brand to encourage young people to access careers advice and employment support in an environment that may feel more welcoming and engaging than a traditional Jobcentre setting. Having recently announced its sponsorship of the Youth Hub, the HPC Laser team was delighted to attend its launch event and meet the people behind the initiative. A particular highlight was hearing from young people who shared their experiences with the Foundation.
Steve Cockerham, Managing Director of HPC Laser, told us: “It was fantastic to be part of the launch and see the enthusiasm and commitment behind the new Youth Hub. I’d like to congratulate everyone involved in organising such a great event. A real standout moment for me was hearing from the young people who shared their experiences and explained how the Foundation had supported them.
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To speak so confidently and clearly in front of such a large group takes real bravery, and I thought they were absolutely fantastic. Hearing how they had personally benefited really demonstrated the true potential of the Youth Hub.
BEST SELLER
It’s still early days, but HPC Laser is incredibly proud to support the Youth Hub and the Leeds United Foundation. We’re looking forward to seeing it develop and the opportunities it creates for young people across Leeds.
2023/2024/2025
The Professional stadium tour was also a real treat for the HPC team and heavy-duty construction a fantastic addition to what was a very enjoyable and 50W tube, worthwhile day.”upgradeable to 60W
NON-METAL LASER CUTTER bed +the rotary-ready The Motorised launch marked beginning of an exciting new chapter & ENGRAVER (LS6840 PRO) for the Youth Hub, which aims to provide young people with Full starter package included a welcoming space to access guidance, develop new skills, 680×400mm buildCompact confidence and explorebed opportunities for their future.
A perfect balance of engraving and cutting material range the initiative is an opportunity to For Wide HPC Laser, supporting capability over a 680x400mm bed. contribute to something with the potential to make a lasting difference within the local community.
Cuts & engraves a range of materials Protective safety enclosure Integrated camera & visible laser tracing Visit: www.hpclaser.co.uk Integrated water chiller HPC Laser looks forward to continuing its support of the Leeds United Foundation and following the progress of the Youth Hub as it develops and makes a lasting difference to young people in the community.
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TROTEC LASER
WHY PRODUCTION STRATEGY IS BECOMING A GROWTH FACTOR FOR ENGRAVING BUSINESSES Laser engraving businesses can scale through new applications and smarter production More and more engraving businesses are looking beyond traditional engraving services to generate additional revenue. By aligning their production models with changing market demands, companies can expand into new applications, value-added services, and new business opportunities. Laser technology has evolved significantly over the past decade. Modern laser systems can process a wide variety of materials with high precision, speed, and repeatability. Yet for many engraving service providers, technology alone is no longer the primary driver of business growth.
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Market conditions are changing. Customers increasingly expect products and services tailored to their specific requirements, shorter turnaround times, and greater service flexibility while competition continues to increase. At the same time, traditional engraving markets are becoming more mature. As a result, many businesses are asking a different question: instead of simply producing more, how can production capabilities generate new revenue opportunities? Increasingly, the answer lies in the production model itself.
The opportunity often lies outside the traditional business model When companies seek growth, they often focus on acquiring additional machines or increasing utilization rates. Greater throughput and modern laser technology remain important growth drivers, particularly when businesses enter new markets or add new services. However, successful expansion also depends on identifying the right opportunities and aligning production capabilities with evolving customer needs. In practice, many engraving service providers already possess some of the capabilities needed to access additional markets. As customer expectations evolve, however, new applications may require greater
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productivity, enhanced automation, additional material-processing capabilities, or dedicated production capacity. For example, companies that traditionally focus on awards, signage, or promotional products can expand into industrial marking applications such as serial number marking, asset identification, type plates, and product traceability. These applications often generate recurring orders and longer-term customer relationships. Similarly, manufacturers increasingly seek flexible partners for small-batch production support. Component marking, product finishing, and subcontract manufacturing services allow engraving companies to integrate themselves more deeply into industrial supply chains. The ability to move beyond one-time engraving jobs and become an ongoing production partner creates entirely new sources of revenue.
Diversification requires operational flexibility As companies expand their service portfolio, operational complexity increases. Different customer requirements, materials, processing standards, and delivery expectations must be managed efficiently. This is where production strategy becomes a business-development tool. From Trotec Laser’s perspective, this shifts the focus from individual machine performance toward the interaction of laser technology, software, workflow design, automation, and production planning. Production environments that are highly flexible and digitally organized can support a broader range of applications without requiring separate workflows for every customer segment. Standardized processes, centralized job management, and efficient production planning make it easier to introduce additional services while maintaining productivity. The same infrastructure that supports engraving can also support personalization programs, industrial marking projects, contract production services, and premium fulfillment offerings. As businesses
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expand into industrial marking, traceability, personalization programs, or contract manufacturing services, production requirements often become more demanding. Higher volumes, new materials, and stricter quality standards can place additional demands on existing equipment. Many companies therefore review how their laser infrastructure can support future growth, whether through workflow optimization, technology upgrades, or additional production capacity.
Premium services are becoming revenue sources Another emerging opportunity is the monetization of responsiveness and expertise. Customers facing tight deadlines are often willing to pay for priority production, rush-order handling, or guaranteed delivery services. Likewise, many customers require support before production begins. Artwork preparation, file optimization, vectorization, product customization consulting, and design adaptation are increasingly being offered as standalone services. These activities generate value independently of machine operating time while strengthening customer relationships. For many engraving companies, such services can create additional revenue streams while complementing existing production capabilities and supporting long-term customer loyalty. Taken together, these opportunities show that growth can come from three directions: new applications, production capacity offered as a service, and value-added services surrounding the laser process.
Connected throughput as a foundation for business growth As businesses expand into new applications and customer segments, the ability to manage increasing operational complexity becomes a competitive advantage. Efficient information flows, standardized processes, and connected
production environments help companies handle a broader range of jobs while maintaining productivity and quality. Against this backdrop, Trotec Laser’s ecosystem focuses on connecting order management, job preparation, production workflows, and automation technologies. The goal is to help businesses scale efficiently as their service offerings and customer requirements evolve. This philosophy is reflected in Trotec’s new generation of Black Line laser systems, which combine laser technology, software, workflow automation, and integrated support within a connected production ecosystem. Designed for professional engraving and personalization applications, Black Line helps businesses streamline workflows and improve process consistency as production requirements become more complex. Together with Ruby® software, which combines job preparation, order management, and production control within a unified environment, the approach supports companies in managing a growing variety of applications while creating scalable production processes for new business opportunities.
Rethinking growth As markets continue to evolve, revenue growth is no longer driven by production volume alone. New opportunities emerge through service diversification, entry into adjacent markets, and value-added offerings. At the same time, businesses need production environments that can scale efficiently as demand grows. For engraving service providers, future competitiveness will depend not only on how efficiently products are processed, but also on how effectively production capabilities can be transformed into new business opportunities. Companies that combine market-focused diversification with the right production technology, operational efficiency, and scalable workflows are laying the foundation for more resilient, profitable, and sustainable growth. Visit: www.troteclaser.com/en-gb
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DESKTOP ENGRAVING MACHINES FREE DELIVERY, INSTALLATION AND BASIC TRAINING OF ANY NEW ROLAND DE-3 ENGRAVER WITHIN A RADIUS OF 100 MILES
Engrave onto a huge range of giftware, signage, trophies, tools and industrial products Laser pointer for quick set-up and easy production Easily-applied nose cones for precise depth-regulation
USB connection with LAN network connectivity Includes new Vectric V Carve software
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We also have a large selection of refurbished machines and part exchange on your old machine and lease purchase is available
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Colin Archer has worked in the Engraving Industry as a Service Engineer for over Twenty Five Years now. In 2005 he set up CAServicing with the aim to provide professional Servicing & Repairs of Computerised Engraving Machines & Lasers at Sensible Prices.
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Lease purchase available A SMALL SELECTION OF OUR STOCK VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE - UPDATED REGULARLY Gravotech IS400 Volume 300 x 200mm engraving area, cups up to 350mm diameter, point and shoot model, on stand and with G9 software, mint condition ......... £POA Roland EGX600 600 x 400mm engraving area, excellent condition, with software ...................................................................................................................£4000 Vision 4824 1200 X 600mm engraving area series 3 controller onstand, complete with engravelab software superb condition ................................. ………. £6000 Vision 1612 400 x 300mm engraving area, series 3 controller, complete with engravelab software, mint condition ................................................................£3,750 Gravograph IS8000 1220 x 610 engraving area, complete on stand, software, excellent condition ......................................................................................... £POA Gravotech Welase Hybrid Fibre Laser Engraving Machine complete with vice unit & Laerstyle 9 software ........................................................................ £POA Trotec Speedy 300 120w Co2 laser with Bofa extractor, 720 x 420mm engraving area, lovely condition ...............................................................................£9,750 U-Marq CX5 engraving machine with Visual Toolbox 8 software, 231 x 182mm engraving area, 135mm diameter cup/glass engraver, lovely condition ......£4,500 U-Marq RX5, complete with Visual Toolbox software, small engraving machine, mint condition ............................................................................................. £2,750 Gravograph IS7000 610mm X 815mm engraving area, complete with software and stand, mint condition ............................................................................ £POA Gravograph IS6000 610mm X 420mm engraving area complete with software, stand, superb condition ................................................................................ £POA Gravograph LS900 laser complete with inbuilt extractor unit 610 X 610mm engraving area, rotary attachment honeycomb table and Gravograph software ...£6,500 U-Marq FX4 engraving machine 265mm X 205mm engraving area, vice unit and Visual Toolbox 7 software. 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area, tee-slot table and vice unit and EngraveLab 10 software ..................................................................................£4,500 U-Marq RX GEM with Visual Toolbox Gem software, excellent condition ..................................................................................................................................£2250 Signature 8080 Mini complete with software and many attachments in excellent condition .................................................................................................... £3750 Suregrave Mini ME desk top engraver Engravelab 10 software as new ...................................................................................................................................£2250 Gravograph IS400 flatwork engraver up to 300mm x 200mm Engravlab 10 software superb condition ...................................................................................£4750 Mastergrave / U-Marq compact, flat and tankard / glass engraver Visual Toolbox software lovely condition .........................................................................£3750 Roland EGX 400 400 x 300mm engraving area Engravelab 10 software immaculate condition ...............................................................................................£4500 Suregrave Rotation S flat & cup machine up to 200mm diameter Hi-Drive 2 controller Engravalab 10 software mint condition ............................................ £4500 Suregrave Wizzard St 300mm x 300mm engraving area, Hi Drive 2 control, Engravelab 10 software, as new ..................................................................... £3,500 Roland EGX 20 with Engravalab software 200 X 150 engraving area ....................................................................................................................................... £POA Gravograph IS 200 TX 225 x 80 engraving area and 200ml diameter cups, superb condition, on-stand gravostyle software ................................................. £POA Signature 8080 engraving machine Superb giftware and cup machine, several attachments, PC and software .................................................................. £3,500 Newing Hall Milgrav, Apex AMC 2 Controller, lovely condition ................................................................................................................................................ £POA Gravograph TX3, motorised flat and cup machine, cups/rosebowls to 12” diameter, cutters and diamond form ..................................................................... £1750 Gravograph VXM, 200 x 150 engraving area, superb condition ............................................................................................................................................... £1950 Dahlgren Wizzard 2000 St, 300mm x 300mm engraving area, ‘T’ slot table, surelab software, mint condition ....................................................................... £2750 Mastergrave MK5 cup engraving machine, 10” cup diameter, complete with copy set, cutters and diamond marker, late machines immaculate condition ... £1100 Roland PNC 2300, 200 x 150 engraving area, nice compact machine, complete with Engravelab 8 software ........................................................................ £2500 Gravograph Unica complete with keyboard and screen star programme as new .................................................................................................................... £1950 Gravograph IM3 or similar ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... £POA Gravograph IS800 650 x 490 engraving area with Gravostyle software ................................................................................................................................... £POA Newing Hall 350 work station. 350mm x 300mm engraving area. Cup/Tankards upto 250mm diameter. Complete with Apex controller + Software. Superb condition £POA Gravograph TXL motorised cup attachment, cups up to 200mm diameter, letter set, cutters diamond, mint condition ........................................................... £1350 Suregrave 2516 Engravelab Software heavy duty flat engraving machine complete superb condition .................................................................................... £4500 Suregrave 2516i Hi-drive 2 controller, Engravelab Software excellent condition ..................................................................................................................... £POA Newing Hall Pantcut PNC 4E Apex AMC2 Control single phase with Engravelab 10 software superb condition ................................................................... £6500 Gravograph M40G 300 x 200 engraving area flat and cup machine, laser pointer Gravostyle software mint condition .......................................................... £POA Suregrave 4824I HD2 Controller Engrave Lab 9 Software New Condition ............................................................................................................................... £8000 Mastergrave Universal Flat machine and cups up to 200mm diameter, superb condition ...................................................................................................... £4250
ALL RECONDITIONED MACHINES ARE GUARANTEED. PX WELCOME • EXPORT ENQUIRIES WELCOMED. MACHINES AND ACCESSORIES BOUGHT FOR CASH • ALL PRICES PLUS CARRIAGE AND V.A.T. Day: 01992 899255 Mobile: 07850 333066. F: 01992 899256 Email: sales@ronamachines.co.uk www.ronamachines.co.uk
27 Hillgrove Business Park, Nazeing Rd, Nazeing, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 2HB