Welcome to the April/May issue of Digital Image Magazine. We’re officially counting down to PacPrint 2025, which will return to the Sydney Showground from May 20–23 and be co-located once again with Visual Impact. As the Southern Hemisphere’s premier print, sign, display, and graphics exhibition, the show is shaping up to be a cornerstone event for business owners, technicians, creatives, and marketing professionals across our sector.
The 2025 edition of the show is promising more than just new technology debuts. This year’s event showcases over 100 exhibitors from across the region and beyond, representing the best in signage, textile, digital print, wide format, and commercial print. Expect hands-on demos, live installations, and insights into the future of sustainable print technologies and automated workflows. Whether you’re looking to upgrade equipment, streamline your operations, or explore new services to offer your clients, PacPrint exhibitors are gearing up to showcase their tailored solutions.
In this issue, we preview some of the exhibitors and innovations featured on the show floor, giving you a head start on what to see, who to meet, and where to focus your time. From automation and hybrid ink technologies to expanded flatbed and textile solutions, the industry’s direction is clear: smarter, more efficient, increasingly customer-driven, and resolutely heading further down the sustainability and ESG path.
Of course, shows like PacPrint are about more than technology. They’re a chance to reconnect with peers, ideas, and the energy that drives our community forward. It’s also where many of the next generation of industry leaders get their first big look behind the curtain, with school tours and apprentices coming through to see what the industry offers.
The seminar program covers everything from adhesive science to leading diverse teams, from navigating the complexities of signage licensing to how Australia’s associations are working to strengthen our industry for the future.
As always, if you’ve got a story to share, whether it’s a standout install, a great collaboration, or an apprentice who deserves recognition, drop us a line at editor@ imagemagazine.com.au. We’d love to hear from you.
For the latest news and updates, visit imagemagazine. com.au, sign up for our weekly newsletter, and follow us on socials @imagemaganz
See you on the floor at PacPrint!
Warm regards,
Stephanie Editor
HP launches new entry level latex printer
HP has unveiled the new HP Latex R530 Printer which has a smaller footprint and allows seamless adaptation between printing on rigid and flexible materials.
It delivers consistent, high-quality output across various media types, enabling printers to tap into new markets and expand their print applications. With automatic recirculation and printhead cleaning, businesses can enhance uptime and reduce maintenance costs. The single-phase power system provides effortless installation in limited spaces. Sustainability is a key focus, with sustainable innovation
features like direct-to-rigid printing, which reduces waste and UL ECOLOGO-certified HP Latex Inks.
The printer has returnable maintenance cartridges and has 25% recycled plastic built into its design.
HP says the new printer eliminates the trade-offs usually associated with traditional flatbeds and gives small and medium-sized printers an all-in-one solution to elevate their operations and scale sustainably.
Global availability of the HP Latex R530 Printer is expected from April 2025.
Mutoh announces availability of the HydrAton 1642
Mutoh has announced the release of the HydrAton 1642, a 1625 mm roll-to-roll printer featuring innovative water-based UV technology. First showcased at drupa 2024, the printer is now available for sale through MUTOH’s certified distributors and partners in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, with A/NZ availability to be announced shortly.
HydrAton 1642 is powered by AQUAFUZE, an advanced UV-curable water-based ink technology developed by Fujifilm. This hybrid ink system combines the benefits of water-based and UV-curable inks, utilising Fujifilm’s proprietary dispersion technology to achieve low-VOC, lowodour, and non-hazardous printing.
Unlike traditional inks, AQUAFUZE adheres to many substrates, including non-porous materials, without primers or adhesion promoters. The thin yet durable printed ink film offers excellent scratch resistance without an overcoat, making it ideal for wallpapers, retail décor, indoor signage, and public space applications.
The ink’s development focused on ingredient
selection, ensuring compliance with the highest safety and environmental standards. With a low volatile organic compound (VOC) content of less than 15%, the formulation is designed to minimise emissions. Additionally, the ink is free from Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC), aligning with many regulatory standards aimed at safeguarding both operators and the environment. Its classification as GHS hazardfree means that it does not require any hazard markings, reflecting a commitment to safety without compromising on performance.
AQUAFUZE is also GREENGUARD Gold certified, and MUTOH is working towards additional certifications for interior and building materials in Europe.
The HydrAton 1642 operates at significantly lower temperatures (30°C –50°C) than conventional industrial latex and water-based resin ink printers. This ensures compatibility with heat-sensitive substrates and reduces energy consumption and Carbon Dioxide emissions, making it one of the most eco-responsible solutions in its category.
Its optimised ink film formation system, which combines a three-way heater, a blower fan, and a UV lamp, produces outputs with enhanced durability and superior image quality.
Equipped with two AccuFine HD print heads, the HydrAton 1642 delivers high-speed, highquality prints with improved ink placement accuracy, reduced banding, and sharp details like fine lines and small text. AccuFine print heads differ because they have increased nozzle row length and high-density nozzle pitch.
Designed with efficiency and ease of use in mind, the HydrAton 1642 is powered by MUTOH’s VerteLith RIP software and includes several innovative automation features to streamline daily workflows:
• DropMaster 2: automatically adjusts bidirectional alignment for perfect registration.
• FeedMaster: automates media feed correction using built-in sensors.
• Media Tracker: prints and scans barcodes to track remaining media length, reducing material waste.
Mimaki releases Hybrid Textile/ Transfer Paper Printer
Mimaki has unveiled the Tx330-1800, a new hybrid direct-to-textile inkjet printer that enables seamless printing on both fabric and paper. Engineered for flexibility and sustainability, the Tx330-1800 is aimed at the growing textile and apparel market, where high-quality, environmentally conscious production is in increasing demand.
Noting the relevance of the product in today’s market, Arjen Evertse, General Manager Sales EMEA at Mimaki Europe, says, “The demand for textile products produced on-demand and locally will continue to grow. The Tx330-1800 is designed for users who need a small footprint solution without compromising on versatility and image quality.”
The printer is equipped with Mimaki’s flagship “330 Engine”, similar to its sister product the TX330-1800B. By using a straightforward printing and baking process with textile pigment and dye sublimation
inks, the Tx330-1800 eliminates the need for extensive water usage and complicated dyeing facilities, supporting the trend toward sustainable textile manufacturing.
This hybrid model allows the operator to switch between printing on fabric or transfer paper, making it ideal for short-run production of fabric signage, interior fabrics, wallpaper, and poster paper. The addition of a “Hybrid Ink Set” enables the simultaneous use of both pigment and sublimation inks, broadening the printer’s application range and allowing users to diversify their service offerings.
The Tx330-1800 supports printing on natural, recycled, and synthetic fibres, including cotton, silk, rayon, and polyester, catering to various sectors from retail to interior décor. It also integrates with Mimaki’s new TxLink5 textile RIP software, which enhances workflow efficiency, particularly in environments with multiple printers.
The printer launched globally in April 2025 and will be showcased at FESPA Berlin in May 2025. Mimaki Australia has confirmed local availability in Australia and New Zealand from June 2025.
Celmac Australia now a DG Dimense distributor
Celmac Australia is now an importer and specialist national reseller in Australia for the DIMENSE large format three-dimensional embossing technology from DG Dimense.
“We are happy and excited to be working with Celmac Australia to help expand our exclusive solution into the Australian Market at a national level. We are confident that Wayne McIntyre and the team have the drive and experience along with the support and service infrastructure to represent and grow the wide range of applications that our technology can produce to provide additional value to print service providers and specialist integrators alike,” says Kevin Shigenoya, Vice president of DG Dimense.
Wayne McIntyre, Managing Director for Celmac Australia, adds, “We are thrilled to be working with DG Dimense as we embark on a journey into textured printing solutions. Celmac
has vast industry experience in the sign and décor print market in Australia, and we are looking forward to bringing this complementary and expansive solution to our customers. We know the range of solutions available today. We recognise that with the DIMENSE technology, general print service providers and specialist printers can all gain an advantage and expand their product offerings to their respective client bases. This includes adding extra dimension to key premium sign and display applications.”
The DIMENSE solution consists of the Dimensor S inkjet printer combined with special media that has the property of foaming when heated. After printing, the media is heated by the printer’s on-board heater, which causes areas not coated with structure ink to foam up to 1.5 mm thick, which then produces the designed 3D texture. This innovative solution enables on-
demand output of textured graphics.
DIMENSE has also developed an exclusive line of PVC-free media that is both safe to work with and sustainable. Several media finishes are available, including matte, suede, metallic silver, metallic gold, pearlescent, and chameleon, enabling the production of a wide variety of interior decorations, including wallpaper, as well as point-of-purchase materials.
McIntyre continues, “Our team at Celmac are looking forward to receiving initial stocks and advanced training on the product over the next few weeks to begin conversations with our customers and demonstrate the new range of solutions through our Australian network of offices.”
Celmac will be showing application examples of the DG Dimense technology at PacPrint 2025.
CPP launches Manufacturer’s Warranty for Arizona Flatbed and Colorado M-Series Range
Canon Production Printing Australia has launched a 2-year Manufacturer’s Warranty for its Arizona Flatbed and the Colorado M-Series Range across Australia and New Zealand. The new terms are effective immediately. All new Arizona flatbed printers or Colorado M-Series roll-to-roll printers purchased after 24 March will have a Warranty valid for two years from the first day of installation.
“By introducing a two-year Manufacturer’s Warranty for our Arizona flatbed printer and Colorado M-Series Range, we reinforce our confidence in the quality, reliability, and manufacturing excellence of our printers. Our Large Format Graphics portfolio offers a broad range of technologies – whether customers need a flatbed, roll-to-roll, or technical printer,
Wildstone has become one of Victoria’s biggest outdoor media asset owners after acquiring Total Outdoor Media’s (TOM) entire portfolio of regional billboards. The deal marks Wildstone’s first Australian full-ownership portfolio acquisition and includes 14 digital and 38 classic sites.
The acquisition is the second agreement the company has struck in Australia since launching in the country last year. In October 2024, it agreed to a sale-and-leaseback deal to fund two new digital sites for Alliance Outdoor Media Group. Under the terms of that agreement, Wildstone leases the sites back to the operator, which continues to manage media sales.
“We’re thrilled to have completed our first acquisition in the Australian market and especially pleased to have secured such a strong regional portfolio. Through this deal, we are enabling regional centres to take advantage of digitisation as we know the regional audience is a growing and critical part of many outdoor campaigns,” says Noel Cook, Managing Director for Wildstone Australia.
He adds, “We will continue to support media operators and look for further opportunities in regional areas, as well as being very much open to metro locations. We see the value in having billboard inventory across a diverse range of Australian markets, and this acquisition is just the beginning, with more exciting announcements on the horizon as the company continues to expand its footprint,”
The company will enter into new
they can trust Canon to consistently deliver the right results,” says Steven Badger, Head of Sales & Professional Services at Canon Production Printing Australia.
The Manufacturer’s Warranty covers labour, the printer hardware and its parts, from any manufacturer’s defects within this warranty period. The new warranty terms apply to the current portfolio, which includes the Arizona 135 GT, Arizona 1300 GTF/XTF, Arizona 2300 GTF/XTF, Arizona 6100 Mark II and the Colorado M-Series.
Arizona Flatbed Series allows Large Format Graphics providers and printers to deliver a wide range of applications, including retail signage, interior décor, packaging, elevated, and industrial printing. Designed and built in
Germany for productivity, these systems offer versatile, accurate, and highly efficient multiboard and double-sided output.
The Colorado M-Series, with its modular design, offers scalable print speeds and includes white ink capabilities. Equipped with Canon’s UVgel technology, it delivers highquality, durable prints with excellent colour consistency and scratch resistance. It is ideal for applications such as wall coverings, floor graphics, and vehicle graphics, offering fast turnaround times and low operating costs.
Canon says the warranty upgrade highlights the company’s dedication to providing reliable, high-performance solutions that support business growth and customer satisfaction.
Wildstone acquires 100% of Total Outdoor Media (TOM)
partnerships with media operators interested in managing site advertising, adding that it is committed to providing high-quality, revenuegenerating sites in key locations. The TOM portfolio includes several prime regional sites, including boards in Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Shepparton, and Wangaratta.
“We’re delighted to have reached this agreement with Wildstone Australia and are incredibly proud of the premium regional assets TOM has built in Victoria. The strong demand from advertisers underscores the growing importance of regional out-of-home
media. With Wildstone’s vision and expertise, we’re confident these sites will continue to thrive, unlocking even greater opportunities for advertisers in key regional markets,” says Ged Hart, Managing Director at TOM.
Wildstone’s Australian expansion forms part of the company’s broader strategy for international growth. In addition to the Australian acquisition, the business recently announced new acquisitions in Germany and Spain. These add to its portfolio of over 5,400 billboards in six countries.
Epson has introduced the SureColor SC-S9160, the first model in its nextgeneration S-Series eco-solvent printers, replacing the SC-S80600 and SCS80660L. Designed for signage professionals, the 64-inch printer delivers enhanced image quality, a wider colour gamut, and improved productivity, all within a compact and user-friendly design.
At the heart of the SC-S9160 is Epson’s new 2.64” PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead, which is user-replaceable (with Epson Cloud Solution PORT registration and training). It incorporates a temperature sensor, nozzle verification, and nozzle replacement to ensure high-quality, consistent output. These features make it ideal for a wide range of signage businesses.
The printer features an advanced 11-colour UltraChrome GS3 ink set, including red, orange, a new green, and opaque white ink—enabling striking
prints on clear or dark media types. It supports a variety of substrates such as vinyl, canvas, wallpaper, and films up to 1626mm wide.
With an intuitive 4.3-inch tiltable touchscreen, media lifter, and auto tension control, the SC-S9160 is designed for ease of use and operational efficiency. Approximately 30% of the plastic used in its construction is recycled, and its low-VOC inks support more sustainable printing practices.
For workflow optimisation, the printer integrates with Epson’s Edge Print Pro RIP software and Cloud Solution PORT, offering advanced reporting and job tracking features. Businesses can also choose between 800ml or 1,500ml ink configurations to suit their needs and reduce waste.
The SureColor SC-S9160 will be available in Australia and New Zealand from mid-2025.
FESPA Berlin 2025 exhibitor numbers surpass the 2024 show
FESPA Global Print Expo, European Sign Expo, and Personalisation Experience, which will run from 6 - 9 May 2025 in Messe Berlin, Germany, will welcome over 550 new and returning exhibitors from over 36 countries, surpassing the exhibitor numbers from the 2024 events.
“This year’s events are set to be a pivotal platform in 2025 for our global community. We’re delighted to be back in Berlin, a vibrant and creative destination, which, given its history, is ideal for hosting FESPA and its co-located events. Eight halls full of inspiration and innovation await professionals from the specialty print market, where they can discover many on-demand technologies for specialist print applications. With over 550 exhibitors, FESPA Global Print Expo and its co-located events will be THE meeting point for Visionaries in 2025,” says Michael Ryan, Head of FESPA Global Print Expo.
Plockmatic Group, Morgana Systems, Mikkelsen Innovations, and Robotfactory are among the 198 returning exhibitors after missing the 2024 events.
Across the three events, visitors will be able to explore hardware solutions for wide format, textile and garment decoration, finishing and more from major exhibitors, including AGFA, Brother, Canon, Durst, EFI, Epson, Fujifilm, HP, Kongsberg PCS, Kornit Digital, M&R, Mimaki, Ricoh and Roland.
Caldera, Onyx, PrintFactory and SA International are among the confirmed software suppliers for the event, demonstrating endto-end workflows, colour management, job onboarding and RIP and CNC solutions.
Many companies will present the latest consumables, such as self-adhesives, aluminium composite materials, paper, inks
and flexible PVC media. Exhibiting companies include 3A, 3M, Berger Textiles, Coldenhove, Decal, Endutex, Fedrigoni, Hexis, IGEPA, Pongs, Sun Chemical and UPM.
With over 100 exhibitors confirmed for European Sign Expo 2025, visitors can expect to discover transformative developments that will shape the future of the signage and visual communications industries. ABC Display, Adsystem, Cosign, Domino Sign, EFKA, LUCO LED, NSELED, SIGN-Ware and TPS will showcase products for channel lettering, digital and dimensional signage, engraving and etching, illuminated displays, outof-home media, LED, outdoor systems, laser cutters, routing and sign tools.
The Personalisation Experience will highlight the latest software for customisation design and production automation from exhibitors including Antigro, Kit Builder, Konfigear, IP Labs, and XMPie.
New WH&S Resources Make Business Easier
ASGA recently released a comprehensive range of WH&S resources, making it easier for ASGA members to comply with the latest regulations and safety protocols.
Damian Nielsen, ASGA Member & Events Manager, says the new resources have been sourced from safety specialists, ASSA, and are designed to help businesses remain compliant while saving them time and effort in pulling together all the documentation they may require for compliance.
“WH&S is a complex and ever-changing area, and it’s important for businesses to be aware of the latest changes to guidelines and regulations and to have robust safety protocols and practices in place,” Nielsen says.
“These new resources make it easy for businesses to comply with industry-standard policies and procedures, and, of course, to ensure that workers are protected.”
ASSA is part of a family-owned business that specialised in industrial signage for over 50 years. In 1999, Advanced Safety Systems Australia (ASSA) was established, and since then, its compliance management system and comprehensive suite of tools, resources, and services have taken the hassle out of WH&S compliance for thousands of businesses across Australia and New Zealand. Now, this suite of tools and resources is available to ASGA members.
Chris Tuck, Service Compliance Manager from ASSA, says there is no more important area for business owners and managers to understand than work health and safety.
“We are delighted to be working with
ASGA to make the whole process easier, with resources that bring businesses up to date with the latest information and guidelines and allow them to put together comprehensive company manuals suitable for their business situations,” he says.
Nielsen says the ASGA website, signs. org.au, has over 400 policies, procedures, checklists, and templates, so businesses are sure to find exactly what they need.
“As well as SWMS (Safe Work Method Statements) templates, which ensure that safety procedures are documented for specific roles within a business, there are also well over 350 SWP, or Safe Work Procedure, documents relating to various pieces of equipment which have been specifically assembled for the sign and graphics sector.”
The new resources include policies on the chain of responsibility and clean-as-yougo, as well as checklists and registers for everything from asbestos identification and chemicals checklists to training assessments and contractor inductions, electrical safety and fire prevention.
There are also more than 350 procedures covering a wide range of equipment that has been selected for its relevance to the signage and graphics sector. This includes angle grinders and air presses, CNC laser cutters and routers, die-cutters and flatbed routers, wide-format printers and sewing
machines, and forklifts and pallet trucks.
“The list is extensive, but it means that businesses across our very diverse industry will be able to find the procedures they need for their specific business and equipment line-up,” Nielsen says.
“Taken as a whole, these new resources make it easier for businesses to incorporate safety procedures into on-the-job training, display the relevant procedures and safety warnings on all equipment, and implement good WH&S practices by following the policies and checklists in the portfolio.
“ASGA Members can simply log in to the Member Portal on our website to download these documents, review and update their safety procedures, and put together or expand their WH&S manuals…all as part of their ASGA Membership, and all in a fraction of the time it would take for them to source and obtain these resources on their own.”
Nielsen says membership and its benefits are about making business easier for ASGA members.
“All our resources, whether legal documents, contract templates, HR and employment resources, technical and regulatory support, webinars or these new WH&S resources, are designed to help our members build better businesses and do so more easily. That’s the real benefit of membership.”
FESPA Launches the FESPA Foundation
FESPA has announced the launch of The FESPA Foundation, a new sister organisation to FESPA, dedicated to encouraging sustainable practices throughout the speciality print and visual communications industry and channelling resources into community support and educational outreach programmes.
With a philosophy of ‘Print for Good’, the principal activities of The FESPA Foundation have been defined as:
• Encouraging exhibitors to produce print applications that can enrich educational environments for children in underprivileged communities, thereby reducing printed waste from FESPA exhibitions worldwide;
• Facilitating the collection, transportation, distribution and installation of these print materials in the beneficiary communities via international and local partners;
• Collecting in-kind and monetary donations that further support the beneficiary communities for distribution via credible local charities and community outreach programmes.
The Foundation’s first initiative will be to collect printed materials and in-kind donations at the FESPA Global Print Expo, which takes place from 6-9 May 2025, at Messe Berlin, Germany. The items will be distributed to community projects in southern Africa. Exhibitors at FESPA Global Print Expo 2025 have been asked to produce printed applications such as educational posters, maps, student clothing and backpacks to a defined set of technical and creative specifications, these will meet a range of educational needs as informed by local programme partners.
Visitors to the Berlin show are also invited to make in-kind donations of items such as reading glasses, notebooks, pens, art kits, or
school supplies. Monetary donations to The FESPA Foundation are also welcomed and will be used to fund the purchase of mosquito nets for malaria prevention, clean-water drinking straws, and similar items.
Printed materials and donations collected at FESPA Global Print Expo will be transported to South Africa free of charge by FESPA’s global logistics partner DSV. In South Africa, they will be distributed via the Kingsley Holgate Foundation. This community charitable organisation was established to support malaria prevention, water purification, and access to Rite to Sight spectacles for the poorsighted in Africa. It now also provides Early Childhood Development and Conservation & Communities initiatives.
The Foundation intends to replicate this model across regional FESPA events.
Neil Felton, CEO of FESPA and founder of The FESPA Foundation, explains, “FESPA is a global support organisation, and our mission has always revolved around supporting communities, educating and knowledgesharing, and promoting sustainability. Through The FESPA Foundation, we can bring these core values to life beyond our day-to-day work, encouraging practices that reduce waste and environmental impact while creating longterm value for communities. Those of us who live and breathe print believe wholeheartedly in its unique potential to engage, inform and inspire. By creating the Foundation, we want to harness the combined strength of our global
exhibitor and visitor base and demonstrate how, together, we can channel the power of print to drive positive change globally.”
By diverting printed exhibition sample materials that would ordinarily be wasted towards meaningful community support projects, The FESPA Foundation’s work aligns clearly with FESPA’s ISO 20121 Sustainable Event Management System standards, reducing event waste and maximising the positive legacy of FESPA exhibitions.
To illustrate the initiative’s transformative potential, the Foundation visited the Evane Intermediate School, a rural school serving 90 children in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The Foundation oversaw this project together with FESPA associate Steve Thobela ka Mdlalose in South Africa, a print business owner, former CEO of Printing SA, and founding General Manager of The Mandela Rhodes Foundation, which develops young leaders across Africa. He had active support from the FESPA Africa team and partners, using funds and in-kind donations from FESPA.
The local project team repainted and decorated the school, upgraded and repaired the toilet blocks, and delivered a range of printed educational posters and creative materials to provide a more functional and inspiring learning environment. A video about the project can be viewed on YouTube: https://youtu. be/0x2FIeIgutM?si=GsjFPGmYP3dmP4YS
As PacPrint 2025 approaches, the Sydney Showground at Sydney Olympic Park is set to become a hub of innovation and expertise from 20th to 23rd May. Co-located with Visual Impact, both events will showcase the latest advancements in print and signage, offering attendees an opportunity to engage with the newest cutting-edge technologies and industry leaders. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect from some exhibitors, and a snapshot of the seminar and workshops planned and announced as at time of publishing:
As the Platinum sponsor, Roland DG Australia considers PacPrint an essential event for the visual communications sector. Occupying stands A68 and A48, the supplier will showcase the TY-300 Direct-toFilm Production Transfer Printer with an optional Shaker/Heater Unit, offering a comprehensive DTF solution. Additionally, the latest TrueVIS XP-640 64” eco-solvent inkjet printer will be on display alongside a selection of award-winning wide-format TrueVIS printers. Attendees can also look forward to the unveiling of select new products making their public debut at PacPrint.
Epson aims to captivate visitors at stand C48 with the new SureColor S9160 signage printer, boasting an expansive colour gamut and exceptional vibrancy. This model is poised to be a game-changer in the signage and display market. Epson will also demonstrate its commitment to sustainability through advancements in waste reduction, eco-friendly packaging, and energy-efficient print solutions.
Spicers will showcase ‘The Spicers Precinct’ across stands D58 and D68, an immersive hub highlighting innovation and sustainability. The precinct will feature a Pop-Up Gallery showcasing Hahnemühle Photo & Fine Art, an Architectural Showcase of 3M’s Di-Noc and Glass Finishes, and live demonstrations of cutting-edge technology, including the Mimaki UCJV330-160 and Roland DG TY-300 with Shaker Unit. Spicers will also spotlight its Environs range. You can also read more about Spicers and the Rolls Roller Flatbed Applicator that will be on the stand on page 18.
Celebrating over three decades in the industry, Celmac will occupy a substantial 156m² at stand G68. The exhibit will feature several Australian firsts, including the HP Latex R530 flatbed printer and the Epson SureColor SC9160 eco-solvent printer. Celmac is also entering the Direct-to-Film (DTF) sector by partnering with UK-based Resolute. Live demonstrations of Kala Systems’ finishing equipment and the iEcho BK4 flatbed cutter will enhance the visitor experience.
Mutoh Australia will showcase an impressive array of equipment at stand C58. A highlight is the Australian debut of the Mutoh HydrAton HA-1642, a water-based UV printer utilising revolutionary ‘Aquafuze’ ink technology. This innovation combines UV printing strengths with aqueous sustainability. Additionally, attendees can explore Mutoh’s award-winning range of UV Direct-to-Object printers and high-speed Eco-Solvent printers, renowned for their vibrant colours and durability.
HEXIS invites attendees to stand B78 to explore a diverse range of products, including window/glass tint, etch films, and the HEX’perience range of customisable textured print decorations. Demonstrations will highlight innovative films in the Paint Protection Film (PPF) range, both wet and dry applications, and the new BFShield. Interactive opportunities
and racing simulators add an engaging element to the HEXIS experience. Upon entering PacPrint, visitors will encounter Rollover Applicator tables prominently displayed at stand A18. Demonstrations will feature three models: the Rollover Flexi 1510, Flexi 336, and the Classic 4000mm x 1700mm. These applicators are renowned for enhancing efficiency in mounting and laminating processes. Notably, the Flexi 1510 caters to businesses with limited space, offering a compact yet powerful solution. Attendees will be able to interact with Rollover’s team, including International Sales Director Dorothe Schjødt from Norway.
SEMINARS AND WORKSHOPS
LetterTech Australia, in partnership with Bounce LED, will conduct handson Channel Lettering Workshops throughout the four days of PacPrint. Providing participants with practical skills in 3D channel lettering, including precision bending and LED integration. Per-booking is essential. In addition to several activities, and hands on demonstration opportunities the seminar includes the following signage, wide format, and leadership seminars across the four’s days of the show.
• Tuesday 20 May 11:00am – 11:30am
Which Glue is Right for You?
Speaker: Jay Kroll, Product Manager, General Formulations
• Tuesday 20 May 3:00pm – 3:45pm
Supplier Panel: M aximizing Supply Chain Value in Print & Sign Panel: Steve Fisher (Fujifilm), and other suppliers will discuss innovation, supplier collaboration, and strategies to improve efficiency and growth.
• Wednesday 21 May 11:00am – 11:30am
Employee Assistance (EAP) and Mental Health First Aid Speaker: Steven Gamble (Anchor Health) will discuss how implementing mental health programs provides benefits in the workplace.
• Wednesday 21 May 12:30pm – 1:15pm
Sales 101: Mastering the Fundamentals in a Noisy World Speaker: Christina Bruce (Sellabilities) discusses essential sales training for building relationships and standing out in competitive markets.
Industry Associations Panel: Leadership, Responsibility & Future Focus Panel: Ruth Cobb - PrintNZ, Kellie Northwood – VMA, Karren Challoner-Miles Visual Connections and Mick Harrold – ASGA. PacPrint 2025 promises to be an unmissable event, brimming with innovation, education, and networking opportunities for professionals. Digital Image Magazine will continue to bring you information, news and announcements from exhibitors in the last few weeks leading up to the show, and across all four days of the show, so sign up for our weekly e-news at www.imagemagazine.com.au
Suppliers to Deliver Solutions for Success at the Industry’s Premier Show
With rising global challenges, uncertain economic times, local issues and rapidly changing market demands, there are plenty of challenges ahead for the industry. Suppliers understand those challenges all too well and are ready to support and equip businesses to meet them successfully.
Recently, Visual Connections conducted a survey of its members—the industry’s suppliers—to better understand their plans, priorities, and aims in a rapidly evolving market and to capture their opinions and insights ahead of the region’s largest and most comprehensive trade show, PacPrint 2025.
Of course, surveys are just snapshots of the opinions of a particular group at a specific point in time. However, some of the insights gathered, and questions explored focus on how suppliers remain pivotal to supporting industry success.
Like all businesses, particularly in the current economic climate, suppliers who responded to the survey unanimously saw profitability as a major challenge. And they know it is driving not only their own business strategies but also their customers’ plans and investment decisions.
PacPrint will bring those two groups together to do business, which is a vital opportunity for both.
For the print service provider or signage business that invests in new technologies and innovations, the show is a chance to see supplier offerings that can help them build their business success.
For exhibitors, the suppliers who design, manufacture, market, or sell those solutions, it’s a chance to connect with industry businesses, discuss their unique requirements, and offer advice and potential solutions that might help support their success.
The survey results, conducted in February, provide an interesting overview of current trends. Visual Connections Members provided valuable insights into the challenges they have identified and which are driving their R&D and product development.
“Like most businesses in our sector and many others, our members cited decreasing
client budgets and increasing business consolidation, together with the increasing cost of compliance and important – but sometimes costly – initiatives in areas like sustainability, as providing real challenges for their businesses,” explains Visual Connections EGM, Karren Challoner-Miles.
“What is interesting is that while these are acknowledged as cost challenges, they are also recognised as an important – and an essential – part of their future business and product development plans, driving innovation and helping industry businesses meet market challenges.”
Close to half cited sustainability as a key factor in driving most of their product developments, ensuring that they – and their clients – could meet the demands of the print or signage buyer for sustainable solutions and remain compliant in an increasingly regulated environment.
“Suppliers tell us that their customers expect them to help in achieving sustainability goals, and we know that many of the 100 or so companies exhibiting at PacPrint in Sydney in May will strongly focus on this area,” Challoner-Miles says.
“More than 63% of our survey respondents said their company was committed to delivering and reporting on sustainability goals. 47% have fully developed sustainability policies with defined goals and targets, with another 26% having broader and more generally based policies. More than 75% of the remainder had a policy under development or on the drawing board.
“But, of course, it’s not just sustainability. All industry businesses are looking to improve productivity and profitability. To do more with less in a market characterised by skills shortages and increasing costs. And add value,
diversify, and create valuable new revenue streams to underpin their future success. Solutions for all these challenges will be on show in Sydney.”
In addition to developing equipment, systems, software, and other solutions, suppliers are also at the forefront of industry training, providing much of the operator instruction and upskilling that underpins professional development in the sector.
“75% of suppliers who responded to our recent survey provide training as part of the product installation and commissioning process, with 45% making their training modules available to all customers. 15% go even further, offering stand-alone training options open to all industry members,” Challoner-Miles reports.
“This deep and broad involvement in industry businesses, not just locally but at a global level, means suppliers truly have their fingers on the pulse of the industry –perhaps more than any other group. They are actively anticipating what print and signage providers will need and developing those solutions to help businesses stay ahead of the curve.
“At PacPrint, we will see some 100 companies showcasing those solutions. It’s the best opportunity this year to see and experience the latest innovations, make new connections and actively collaborate on the solutions which can ultimately transform your business for the future,” ChallonerMiles concludes.
PacPrint 2025, co-locating with Visual Impact Sydney and the Label & Packaging Expo, runs from 20 – 23 May at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park. For more information and to preregister, go to www. pacprint.com.au
Karren Challoner-Miles EGM Visual Connection
Innovation, information, opportunity and success await you at PacPrint 2025, the region’s leading print, packaging and visual media trade show.
Join our sponsors, Roland DG, Celmac, Epson, FujiFilm, Graphic Art Mart, HP, Mimaki, Mutoh, Pozitive, Print IQ, Spicers, Screen and many other industry leaders who will be showcasing their latest products, innovations, services; and much more. It’s your single source for business information, ideas and inspiration, all under one roof.
PROUDLY SPONSORED BY:
The Dome & Hall 2, Sydney Showground
See the Latest in Print and Finishing Technology with Pozitive at PacPrint
PacPrint Sydney is shaping to be an important event for the print and signage industry. Pozitive will showcase the latest UV flatbed printing, cutting technology, and workflow automation.
With a focus on efficiency, precision, and high-quality results, Pozitive will demonstrate a fully integrated print and finishing workflow featuring some of the most advanced equipment and consumables available today.
FIRST LOOK AT THE SWISSQPRINT NYALA 5 IN AUSTRALIA
Visitors will be able to see the swissQprint Nyala 5 in action, making its Australian debut at the show. Known for its exceptional print quality, high productivity, and energy efficiency, the latest Nyala is built for businesses looking to deliver outstanding results across signage, packaging, and specialty print applications.
As Europe’s best-selling flatbed printer in its class for ten consecutive years, the Nyala has a strong reputation for reliability and performance. Including a 36-month manufacturer’s warranty highlights swissQprint’s confidence in its engineering and long-term durability.
Visitors to PacPrint can see firsthand how the Nyala delivers sharp detail, vibrant colours, and strong adhesion across various rigid and flexible materials.
LIVE DEMONSTRATIONS OF A COMPLETE PRINT AND FINISHING WORKFLOW
Throughout the show, Pozitive will run live demonstrations, showing how print and finishing solutions can work together to streamline production. On display will be:
• swissQprint Nyala 5 – High-end UV flatbed printing with outstanding detail and colour accuracy.
• Summa F Series F1612 – A flatbed cutter designed for precise cutting, routing, and creasing of rigid boards and roll stock, all in a compact form.
• Summa S One & S3 Vinyl Cutters – Fast and accurate roll stock cutting, ideal for contour-cut graphics and print-and-cut workflows.
• PrintFactory & Caldera RIP Software –Workflow & RIP automation software that enhances efficiency and accuracy while reducing manual handling.
For businesses looking to increase productivity and improve print quality, these demonstrations will provide a clear look at how these technologies work together in real production environments.
RITRAMA AND B-FLEX – HIGHPERFORMANCE CONSUMABLES
Pozitive will also showcase a range of premium consumables from Ritrama and B-Flex for signage, textiles, and specialty applications.
• Ritrama Printable Media & Specialty Films – A versatile selection of monomeric, polymeric, and cast printable media, floor graphics, wallpaper, and window etch films, designed for longlasting, high-quality prints.
• Ritrama Platinum Series – A highperformance range of coloured sign vinyl, ideal for vehicle graphics, retail signage, and outdoor branding.
• B-Flex Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) –With CAD-Cut HTV, Printable HTV, and Direct-to-Film (DTF) solutions, B-Flex offers durable, vibrant, and easy-to-use heat transfer materials for apparel and promotional products.
Pozitive’s team will be available to help visitors understand the best material choices for their specific needs.
EXPERT SUPPORT AND INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE
Pozitive is an Australian-owned and familyoperated business that takes pride in offering more than just high-quality machines and materials. The team focuses on helping businesses get the most out of their investment, with support that goes beyond the initial sale.
From consultation and installation to training and after-sales service, Pozitive’s experienced team works to ensure that businesses are set up for long-term success.
MEET INDUSTRY EXPERTS AND SEE WHAT’S NEW
In addition to connecting with Pozitive’s team, visitors can also meet international guests who will be at the stand throughout the show:
• Adriano Gut from swissQprint will share insights into the latest advancements in UV printing.
• Andrea Sottana from B-Flex Italia offers expertise in heat transfer technology and DTF solutions.
PacPrint is an excellent opportunity for businesses to see new technology in action, ask questions, and get advice on the right solutions for their needs.
VISIT POZITIVE AT STAND C72 AT PACPRINT SYDNEY
For those looking to upgrade their print technology, enhance efficiency, or explore new material options, Pozitive’s stand at PacPrint is a must-visit.
With live demonstrations, expert advice, and hands-on access to the latest print and finishing solutions, this is the perfect chance to see how the right technology can make a real difference.
Epson to showcase SureColor at PacPrint 2025
Epson will make a bold statement at PacPrint 2025 with its vibrant “Come Alive with Epson” theme, inviting visitors to experience the power of colour, precision, and sustainability firsthand. Epson’s showcase will feature cutting-edge printing technology, including the brandnew SureColor S9160, their industry-leading signage printer with the broadest colour gamut in an Epson eco-solvent model and the latest DTFilm solutions.
“The SureColor S9160 is a game-changer for the signage and display market,” says Priscilla Dickason, Corporate Marketing Manager, Epson Australia. “It delivers unparalleled colour accuracy and vibrancy, making it the ideal choice for businesses looking to produce high impact, durable prints.”
In addition to the SureColor S9160, visitors to the Epson stand will see the latest innovations in photo, signage, merchandise, and label printing. Whether it’s high-definition photographic reproductions, eye-catching promotional materials, or durable, customised labels, Epson will demonstrate a suite of solutions that offer unmatched versatility at the show.
And making its Australian debut will be the brand new SureColor S7160 eco-solvent printer, the latest addition to the company’s next generation of large-format signage printers. The printer builds upon the success of the SC-S40600, which has achieved over 11,000 units in global sales.
With outstanding image quality, productivity, ease of use, and reliability at a minimal cost.
The printer is a 4-colour printer and incorporates advanced technology that improves both user experience and print quality. These include Epson’s advanced 1.33-inch-wide PrecisionCore Micro TFP printhead, which facilitates faster printing and wider print width in a single pass, increasing the number of nozzles from 360 to 400.
The SureColor S7160 utilises a larger 4-colour UltraChrome GS3 800 ml ink pouch system, enabling vibrant and accurate prints on a variety of media types, including vinyl, canvas, film, wallpaper, and other roll media up to 1,626 mm wide.
Dickason continues, “We will demonstrate the true possibilities of Epson technology, how we have a solution for every requirement and how, from retail displays to commercial signage, our products empower businesses to create stunning visuals that add value, captivate audiences and drive engagement.”
Alongside the technology on display, sustainability is a core focus for Epson at PacPrint 2025. The company will demonstrate how it continues its commitment to this space with advancements in waste reduction, eco-friendly packaging, and energy-efficient print solutions. Epson products leverage innovative ink systems, energy
efficiency and sustainability certifications to align with the company’s commitment to reducing environmental impact in the ICT sector.
Dickason explains, “Sustainability is a global Epson initiative. It’s something we take very seriously. As a result, we are constantly innovating to reduce environmental impact, whether through our heat-free printing technology, recyclable ink systems or our commitment to responsible sourcing.”
Epson’s eco-conscious product lineup is designed to help businesses minimise waste and energy consumption while maintaining the best possible print quality. With that in mind, attendees at PacPrint25 will have the opportunity to explore how Epson’s technology aligns with the growing demand for environmentally responsible printing solutions.
Epson solutions at PacPrint25 will demonstrate game-changing colour capabilities, high-performance printing, and sustainable innovations to thousands of show visitors.
“PacPrint is always an excellent platform for us to engage with print professionals, demonstrate our latest innovations, and showcase how Epson is helping and adding value to the industry. We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to our stand and showing them how their print requirements can truly ‘Come Alive with Epson’,” concludes Dickason.
Craig Heckenberg
See It in Action – experience the RollsRoller Signature Plus live at PacPrint 2025, Stand D68!
Revolutionising Signage Production with the RollsRoller Signature Plus
The RollsRoller Signature Plus flatbed applicator is designed to meet the demands of the fast-moving world of signage and graphics. Efficiency, precision, and ease of use are key to staying ahead.
The flatbed applicator offers an innovative solution that transforms how businesses apply graphics to various substrates. Whether you’re producing signs, vehicle graphics, or large-format displays, the RollsRoller Signature Plus streamlines the application process, significantly reducing labour and material waste.
THE ROLLSROLLER ADVANTAGE
The RollsRoller Signature Plus is engineered for speed, accuracy, and user-friendliness. It allows operators to complete jobs in a fraction of the time compared to traditional hand application methods. Featuring a pneumatically controlled roller and electronic height adjustment for the ultimate ergonomic experience, it eliminates wrinkles, bubbles, and misalignments, ensuring flawless application every time.
“The RollsRoller Signature Plus has been a game-changer for many of our customers,” says Spicers National Hardware Manager Laurence Tan. “Its ability to significantly reduce production times while maintaining exceptional
accuracy makes it an essential tool for any signage business looking to improve efficiency and increase output.”
KEY BENEFITS AND FEATURES
• Unmatched Efficiency – The flatbed design allows for single-operator use, reducing labour costs and increasing productivity.
• Precision Application – Achieve perfect, bubble-free application on various materials, including self-adhesive vinyl, banners, and rigid substrates.
• Versatility – It handles everything from large-format prints to small decals, making it suitable for a diverse range of applications.
• Reduced Waste – Minimise costly errors and material waste with controlled, accurate application every time.
• User-Friendly Design – Easy to learn and operate, requiring minimal operator training.
• Built to Last – Engineered for durability, with high-quality components that ensure longevity and reliable performance.
MAXIMISING YOUR INVESTMENT
The RollsRoller Signature Plus isn’t just about saving time—it’s about increasing output and improving overall workflow. Businesses investing in this technology have reported substantial gains in efficiency, allowing them to take on more projects and boost profitability.
“From small sign shops to large-scale production houses, this machine is making a real impact,” says Spicers Visual Communications Portfolio Manager Wayne Hood. “It’s not just about speed; it’s about delivering consistent, professional-quality results with minimal effort.”
EXPERIENCE IT FIRSTHAND AT PACPRINT 2025
Speed Meets Efficiency: This game-changing flatbed applicator cuts production times in half.
Want to see the RollsRoller Signature Plus in action? Spicers will showcase this revolutionary flatbed applicator at PacPrint 2025 in Sydney on Stand D68. Visit us for a live demonstration and discover how this machine can transform your business.
For more information, contact Spicers today and take the next step toward optimising your signage production.
See the Graphic Art Mart ‘Signage Playground’ at PacPrint 2025
With a “Signage Playground” spanning two stands, B18 and B28, Graphic Art Mart is gearing up to deliver an unparalleled trade show experience at Visual Impact, co-located with PacPrint 2025. The company has invited show visitors on an interactive journey through the latest signage, print, design advancements, and cutting-edge technology.
AN INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE
ACROSS FIVE ZONES
The Signage Playground has been carefully designed to feature five distinct zones, each tailored to provide hands-on engagement with state-of-the-art products, techniques, and technologies shaping the industry’s future. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in practical demonstrations, experiment with materials, and gain insights directly from leading suppliers and industry experts.
ZONE
1 – COLOUR ME FUN
This zone is aimed at vehicle wrapping enthusiasts and professionals. Attendees are invited to test their skills through live demonstrations, offering a platform for friendly competition with seasoned professionals. Beyond vehicle wraps, the zone showcases a vibrant array of rigid substrates, allowing visitors to assess their performance in real-world applications. Highlighting products from industry leaders such as Avery Dennison, Arlon, Mactac, General Formulations, and Aslan, this area provides a comprehensive look at the latest in coloured pressure-sensitive vinyl technologies.
ZONE
2 – TRY YOUR LUCK
Innovation meets interactivity in this zone, dedicated to wall, window, and bonnet applications. Attendees can explore and test the latest advancements in window and wall
films, pushing the boundaries of traditional applications. The “Catch and Win Game” adds an element of excitement, offering participants the chance to win enticing prizes, making this zone both educational and entertaining.
ZONE 3 – HEAT PRESS HUSTLE
Delving into textile decoration, this zone offers a creative space for attendees to design, cut, and press their custom tote bags using high-quality materials. Live demonstrations of the latest Powder Shaker technology will show advancements in direct-to-film (DTF) printing, a technique revolutionising textile printing with its efficiency and quality. Featuring top brands such as Siser, Chemica Forte, Roland, and Mimaki, this area ensures participants are exposed to the forefront of textile print solutions.
ZONE
4 – FULLY EQUIPPED
Spanning a generous 12x12-metre space, this zone is a comprehensive showcase of the latest and most advanced signage equipment. Attendees can witness cuttingedge machinery capabilities firsthand from renowned manufacturers, including HP, Roland, Mimaki, Keencut, CWT, Colex, Accutek, Fote, Lamination Systems, and Flexa. A highlight within this zone is the Caldera Experience Centre, where visitors are encouraged to bring their files and observe how Caldera’s pre-press software can streamline workflows and enhance
production efficiency, offering practical insights into optimising their operations.
ZONE 5 – LASER ZONE
Precision and creativity converge in this zone, which is dedicated to laser technology. Attendees have the opportunity to engage hands-on with BRM’s stateof-the-art laser engravers, crafting their customised promotional items. Additionally, demonstrations of the Wazer water jet cutter will showcase its versatility and precision, highlighting its potential applications in various signage and design projects.
WHY VISIT GRAPHIC ART MART AT PACPRINT 2025?
Graphic Art Mart says its “Signage Playground” showcases industry innovation in an interactive, engaging, and educational experience. It typifies the innovation the industry is known for. Seasoned professionals will find many an opportunity to test cuttingedge products and gain insights directly from experts on the stand.
When visiting the Graphic Art Mart stand, attendees can immerse themselves in a world of colour and creativity. PacPrint25 visitors will be able to play, create, and collaboratively push the boundaries of what’s possible in signage and design.
Plan your visit to the “Signage Playground” at www.gamart.com.au/pacprint-205
COME VISIT us on stands b18 & b28
JOIN THE FUN WITH GRAPHIC ART MART AT PACPRINT 2025
This year, we’re celebrating COLOUR like never before! Visit us at Stands B18 - B28 and experience the latest in pressure-sensitive adhesives from Avery Dennison, Arlon, Aslan, Siser, Chemica and General Formulations. Plus, get hands-on with cutting-edge equipment from HP, Roland, Mimaki, BRM, CWT, Keencut, Colex, and more! Test your skills, join the action, and win epic prizes.
Don’t miss out—register your interest now!
The Legacy and Evolution of Paint Protection Films
From military-grade defence to premium automotive customisation, 3M has long been at the forefront of film technology. The company’s latest offering, the 3M Protection Wrap Film, delivers the durability of traditional paint protection films (PPF) with the aesthetic versatility of vehicle wrap films.
The concept of paint protection films dates back to the Vietnam War era when 3M developed clear polyurethane films to protect helicopter rotor blades and sensitive equipment from shrapnel and debris. These early iterations laid the groundwork for a thriving industry as the technology transitioned from military to motorsport and high-end consumer vehicles.
In motorsport, lightweight and aerodynamic integrity is paramount, and PPF offers an ideal solution for shielding exposed surfaces. By the late 1990s, premium car owners and detailing professionals began to adopt these films to protect the paintwork from chips, scratches, and environmental contaminants. 3M’s contributions to this field have remained central, with continual improvements in material performance and application ease.
THE NEW 3M PROTECTION WRAP FILM
Released in April 2024, the 3M Protection Wrap Film represents a new generation of vehicle protection. It combines the protective properties of PPF with the personalisation options of vinyl wrap films. Designed for full-colour changes and accent applications, the film has almost 30 premium finishes, including gloss, matte, flip, and texture variations.
3M Protection Wrap Film is suitable for various vehicle applications, from subtle accents such as chrome deletes or rocker panels to complete vehicle wraps.
The film is engineered from polyurethane and is 70% thicker than standard vinyl wrap films, providing increased resistance to rock chips, surface scratches, and stains. Despite its density, the film remains highly conformable, with cold-stretch capabilities that enable smooth application into deep recesses using minimal heat.
The new film includes 3M’s proprietary adhesive technologies, Controltac and Comply, which improve installation speed and quality. Controltac minimises initial adhesive contact, allowing the film to be easily slid, repositioned, and snapped up. Comply introduces nonvisible air release channels that help trapped air escape during the application, enabling a bubble-free, professional finish.
Unlike traditional PPFs, which often rely on wet application, 3M Protection Wrap Film is designed for dry installation. Compared to wet-applied alternatives such as Scotchgard Paint Protection Film Pro Series 200, the process is twice as fast from start to finish.
The film features a self-healing clear coat that, when heated, vanishes minor scratches. It is also resistant to stains and weather and compatible with protective topcoats like 3M Ceramic Coating or 3M Perfect-It Show Car Paste Wax for improved hydrophobic performance.
Additional technical specifications include:
• Film thickness (with an adhesive): 7.5 to 9.0 mil (0.19 mm to 0.23 mm), depending on the colour
• Pressure-sensitive, repositionable adhesive with air-release channels
• Application temperature: 18.3°C to 23.9°C (optimal)
• Adhesion to painted panels: 2.1 lbf/in (3.7 N/cm) after 20 minutes
• 10-year consumer warranty when installed by a certified professional
The film is not recommended for stainless steel substrates and must be stored in controlled conditions between 16°C and 30°C, which is the same optimal installation temperature range.
Maintaining the wrap’s appearance and longevity is straightforward. Wet, non-abrasive cleaners with a neutral pH (6 to 8) are best. For enhanced protection, it’s recommended that installers or vehicle owners apply 3M Perfect-It Show Car Paste Wax or 3M’s ceramic coatings for added hydrophobic and stain-resistant properties. Importantly, waxes containing dyes or abrasives should be avoided, as they can degrade the film surface.
The Protection Wrap Film is the culmination of decades of research, real-world testing, and feedback from professional installers worldwide and is the latest product to add to the legacy of 3M innovations.
Wrap Boldly with new Bright Escapes Colour collection
In February, Avery Dennison launched its new Supreme Wrapping Film Bright Escapes collection, designed to inspire bold self-expression through vivid, high-impact colours. To support installers and enthusiasts in applying these advanced films, the company is also rolling out Wrapping Fundamentals Workshops. The Bright Escapes series and workshops are available across Australia and New Zealand through authorised distributors: Graphic Art Mart, Spandex, Decrastrip and Total Supply.
BRIGHT ESCAPES SUPREME WRAPPING FILM COLOURS
The new Supreme Wrapping Film colour collection, Bright Escapes, is crafted to inspire joy, excitement, and bold self-expression.
• Pool Party Pink captures the essence of carefree days by the pool, filled with laughter and sun-soaked fun.
• Tropical Vacation Green transforms your ride into the lush, refreshing feel of a paradise island getaway.
• Popstar Concert Purple brings the exhilarating energy of a live concert, making every drive feel like a front-row experience.
“These colours aren’t just bold, they’re alive,” says Product Manager for Australia & New Zealand Matthew Francis. “Bright Escapes is about capturing moments that matter. The pink and green radiate pure gloss energy, while the purple’s metallic shimmer adds drama. Together, they’re a rebellion against the mundane.”
This Supreme Wrapping Film colour change vehicle wrap collection features Easy Apply RS adhesive technology, which speeds up and simplifies application. Installers can reposition the film within the first few minutes of applying the material and easily press out wrinkles and bubbles. The film and adhesive technology combination ensures excellent conformability around challenging curves and recesses and clean, long-term removability.
For more information on the new Bright Escapes Collection, browse online at avydn.co/3x6DAXa
LEARN FROM THE EXPERTS
Avery Dennison is also investing in skills development across the industry to ensure these bold new colours are applied with precision and impact. The Avery Dennison Wrapping Fundamentals Workshops will provide the essential training needed to get the most out of the Bright Escapes series, ensuring every wrap turns heads and stands the test of time.
The Workshops, hosted in partnership with authorised distributors Graphic Art Mart, Spandex, and Ball & Doggett, will equip installers with the foundational skills to excel in this demanding field.
Tailored for both newcomers and seasoned professionals, the course dives into:
• Material Science: Understanding film properties, adhesives, and longevity.
• Durability Essentials: Ensuring wraps withstand time, weather, and wear.
• Professional Best Practices: From client consultation to flawless execution.
For more course information please visit: https://graphics. averydennison.com/ap-en/home/resource-center/training-andcertification/supreme-wrapping-film-training.html
EASY TO UNDERSTAND WARRANTY
Concurrently with the new Bright Escapes Colours launch and the new Workshops, the Avery Dennison ICS Warranty Program has also been updated and condensed and is now presented in an easier-toread format.
“At Avery Dennison, we are always striving to improve the performance and durability of all our products on a regular basis; through some strategic R&D work, we have managed to bring the performance up on a key selection of our Supreme Wrapping Film products to bring them in line with our market-leading colours and finishes. Our previous Supreme Wrapping Films ICS Warranty had 16 individual line items, and our new version has been halved down to just eight lines!” says Vaughan Philip, Technical Services Manager for ANZ and ASEAN.
“You still get a very easy-to-read warranty that covers all our Supreme Wrapping Films colours and finishes, but now it’s grouped in a way that you could even memorise it if you wanted to. An interesting note: when doing this latest performance upgrade on our films, one group’s performance really stood out. Our Rugged Range now has an unbeatable 8-year vertical and 3-year horizontal warranty in Australia’s UV Zone 2. It’s one of the highest-performing coloured wrap films we’ve ever seen!” concludes Philip.
ORAFOL’s new ORACAL 970RA
ProSlide film unveiled
ORAFOL’s purpose-built showroom and training hub (annexed off the huge warehouse and distribution facility at its Erskine Park, Sydney head office) was temporarily transformed with images of Australia’s rugged ‘outback’ as part of its recent ORACAL 970RA Pro Slide product launch.
Midst the hustle and bustle of cocktails being shaken, the resident DJ’s Australiana rock anthems and the buzz of 80+ customers and suppliers enjoying the expansive buffet, ORAFOL – supported by Auto Artisan Group and DEF Graphics - quickly got down to the business end of the evening. That was to showcase its new ORACAL 970RA Pro Slide™ film, and who better to assist with the unveiling than director of Auto Artisan Group and vehicle wrap expert, Michael Palladino.
With one half of the giant Chevrolet Silverado, driven in as the rugged centrepiece of the event, already wrapped in an Australian outback inspired design, Palladino set about a live demo of vehicle wrapping on the other half, showing how the film’s natural tackiness, complemented by its ready stretchability, made it easy for just one person to handle the film effectively. “Usually, the pure physical
effort of lifting the film off and tensioning it, requires more than one person,” explained Michael, whilst effortlessly smoothing the film out. “But with the Pro Slide, the film naturally ‘grabs’ into a starting position and the durability and stretchability of the film enables you to tension the film and feel it out as you go.”
“This film also has a superior gloss finish to it, which leaves the user with a high-quality vehicle wrap that has taken considerably less time and effort to install.”
Auto Artisan was just one of dozens of high profile ORAFOL customers gathered for the launch, including fleet specialists ProSigns, car and boat wrappers WrapStyle and retail display experts, the Mills Group, as well as a number of other outdoor sign and vehicle wrap specialists and leading design houses.
Pointing out the colourful decals adorning the full-length windows of the hub, Daniela Mastroieni, ORAFOL’s General Manager –Graphics, Architectural Design & Brand, talked to the versatility of the ORACAL 970RA Pro Slide family, highlighting its applications in vehicle, signage, display, and interior design. Daniela also spoke to the often less visible success of ORAFOL, explaining: “We see ORAFOL as a conduit to the creativity of our clients. We have a team of experts who know and understand our products and we create a platform for our clients – through inviting them to use and collaborate with the products in a place like our ORAFOL Creative HUB™, and through showing them how the products are being used elsewhere in the world – to take on this information and run with it across their own creative opportunities and applications.”
This theme of ORAFOL as a sort of creative facilitator clearly resonates well with its existing customer base and has been the silent inspiration behind a company that has gone from strength to strength over the last decade, now with 5 mega-sites across Australia to facilitate this sort of client collaboration.
All this, well-captured in an evening that was designed to celebrate community, creativity and connection, against the backdrop of a launch of the new ORACAL 970RA Pro Slide
Alex Mclelland, Executive Vice President Asia Pacific for ORAFOL, adds his own thanks to everyone who joined them at the event: “Seeing experts from vehicle wrapping to sign and display mingle was the real highlight of the night and we’re enormously proud to be able to host events like this at the ORAFOL Creative HUB because playing our part in building a tightknit creative community can only serve to strengthen bonds even further.”
ORACAL, ProSlide and ORAFOL Creative Hub are registered trademarks of ORAFOL.
Strategic Project Management, the Signcraft difference
Digital Image Magazine last spoke to Signcraft CEO Kim Nauntofte in 2022, following the company’s strategic joint venture with Colorlux and the celebration of the company’s 50th anniversary. As the company continues to grow, we reconnected with Kim to learn more about Signcraft’s national expansion, and to go behind the scenes of one of its largescale signage fabrication and installation projects.
Since its founding in 1971 in Melbourne, Signcraft has grown into a national signage provider with a strong presence across Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, and now Perth, as well as an international joint venture based in Manila.
In July 2023, Signcraft acquired Wholesale Signco in New South Wales, re-establishing a full-scale manufacturing presence in the state. The move brought local production closer to clients, reducing freight costs and response times while strengthening the company’s operational resilience. Nauntofte explains, ‘The integration of Wholesale Signco’s skilled team and the subsequent transition to a larger site in Campbelltown in August 2024— consolidated Sydney operations and positioned the business for further growth in the region.
Keeping the momentum, Signcraft launched a new Western Australian branch in 2024. The move included acquiring assets from Kingman Visual, which had gone into administration after a long and respected history in the local industry. The new WA facility, operating from Kingman’s former premises, brought fresh leadership, new capabilities, and a highly experienced team from the West Coast in-house, with many former Kingman employees joining the company.
With the new premises in Perth and a surge in digital project delivery capabilities, the company has strengthened its position
as a project management specialist and a leading provider of digitally integrated signage solutions.
“The recent expansion aligns with the company’s strategy for investment and capability-building, which has always been underpinned by its core strengths in design, fabrication, and, crucially, end-to-end project management. This approach has been instrumental in delivering multiple high-profile digital signage projects for global advertising leader JCDecaux in Western Australia,” says Nauntofte.
A disciplined approach to project delivery drives each project undertaken by Signcraft. From initial scoping to final handover, Signcraft’s project managers lead integrated teams that include engineers, designers, fabricators, and installers. They draw upon national infrastructure and international supply partnerships to deliver outcomes that balance creativity, practicality, and commercial performance.
The teams’ project management capabilities were on full display in the delivery of several complex digital signage and gantry work projects for JCDecaux, including two large-scale installations, including a Bridge-Mounted Digital Billboard suspended over the Mitchell Freeway, and a 31m wide gantry structure spanning Dunreath drive at Perth Airport.
The Mitchell Freeway project involved the installation of a digital billboard structure, suspended from the Neerabup Road bridge over the freeway. The project began with 3D scanning of the bridge to develop a precise site model. This allowed Signcraft’s engineering team to overlay a structural model of the steel framework onto the bridge geometry, enabling accurate design integration and early detection of potential conflicts.
Concrete scanning was conducted to identify reinforcement bars and their location within the bridge structure and ensure that anchor placement would not compromise the bridge’s structural integrity. Once the engineering consultants finalised and approved the structural design, Signcraft commenced fabrication of the five-tonne steel framework.
During manufacture, the structure was mounted on purposedesigned support stands in the workshop to allow for the installation of the digital screen, completion of all wiring, and application of cladding. The entire assembly, including screen and electrical, was powered and commissioned on-site to verify the functionality before transport in two large sections for installation. The on-site work took place over eight consecutive night shifts, requiring full freeway closures and coordination with traffic management authorities.
The first two nights involved coring and drilling into the bridge and installing chemical anchors to secure the support system. This was followed by installing the connecting structure using cranes and rigging (nights three and four) and transportation and mounting the now seven-tonne assembly (night five). On night six, anti-climb safety measures were installed on the rear of the
framework, and the final two nights were dedicated to electrical connections, digital configuration, and cladding installation.
Throughout the process, Signcraft’s project management team coordinated multiple stakeholders, including engineers, detailers, fabricators, rigging crews, and traffic management teams, to ensure seamless delivery.
The operation’s logistical complexity and the need to work within a live traffic environment under nighttime conditions required meticulous planning and execution.
Nauntofte cites the successful completion of the Neerabup Bridge installation as an example of Signcraft’s precision in structural integration, safety compliance, and digital signage delivery at scale. “With 30 years of industry experience, the CEO reflects, ‘our Perth project team didn’t just execute—they took ownership of every stage of delivery. That commitment is backed by ongoing investment in capability and strong local leadership across the country.”
He adds that the company and leadership prioritise people, processes, and technology as core pillars for growth.
“Anchored in a relentless Customer First mindset, our disciplined project management, seamlessly integrated fabrication workflows, and unwavering commitment to long-term client relationships don’t just position us to build on our legacy— they empower us to lead the industry and redefine what’s possible in modern signage delivery,” he concludes.
Kim Nauntofte
Discover the Future of Printing with Currie Group at FESPA 2025
At FESPA Global Print Expo 2025, several of Currie Group’s leading partners will showcase their latest technology and innovations. They will demonstrate products designed to improve efficiency, enhance capabilities, and support growth across a wide range of industries, from wide format to industrial printing.
As a trusted distributor of these high-performance printing solutions in Australia and New Zealand, Currie Group brings world-class technologies to local businesses, helping them optimise their production processes.
“FESPA is the ideal platform to showcase the innovation and performance our partners bring to the table,” said Paul Whitehead, Business Unit Manager, Sign & Display at Currie Group.
“From cutting-edge print technology to smart automation and advanced finishing solutions, we’re proud to help our customers access the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving market.”
Here’s what you can expect at FESPA Berlin from Currie Group’s partners:
EFI’S FUTURE-FOCUSED DIGITAL INKJET TECHNOLOGY
EFI will unveil the new EFI Pro 30f+, a flatbed LED printer with superior image quality and efficiency for various applications. The EFI VUTEk M3h will be showcased, a 3.2-meter hybrid flatbed/roll-fed printer known for its higher throughput and lower operating costs. The EFI VUTEk Q3h XP offers hybrid LED technology designed to optimise speed and quality for businesses looking for high-speed printing solutions. In contrast, the EFI VUTEk X3r roll-to-roll LED printer ensures a complete print-to-finished graphic workflow system.
EFI will also demonstrate its textile printing solutions and superhigh-speed printers designed for packaging, signage, and display production. Visitors to the EFI stand can expect live demonstrations, and the company will be on hand to discuss how its innovations can drive business growth in the evolving print industry.
NEW PRINTERS AND A NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH EPSON
Hot on the heels of announcing a new partnership agreement with Currie Group, Epson will showcase its latest innovations in textile and signage printing at FESPA Berlin. All with a strong focus on personalisation and sustainability. The new 64-inch SureColor F9560H dye-sublimation printer offers improved productivity and image quality for textile applications, thanks to a compact design and a new larger PrecisionCore MicroTFP printhead.
For signage, the SureColor S9160 delivers high-performance results across a multitude of media, featuring an 11-colour ink set - now including green - for an expanded colour gamut, and Epson’s Edge Print Pro software for streamlined print management.
ELITRON’S ROBOTIC CUTTING INTELLIGENCE
Elitron will showcase its Kombo THC 32.20, a multi-tool conveyor cutting system, for maximum production flexibility. This system, equipped with two cutting heads, is ideal for businesses looking to
expand their material application capabilities. The Spark C 19.16 is another key product, a compact multi-tool cutting system for roll and sheet material applications. The Kombo THC 32.20 will be equipped with Elitron’s new EFS (Elitron Feeding System) for automated loading, which integrates with the SDS Seeker System to read and centre print reference marks, ensuring precise cutting from the get-go.
Elitron’s robotic cutting systems are designed to streamline workflows, reduce manual intervention, and boost productivity, making them an ideal choice for businesses looking to optimise their operations.
CANON’S POWERFUL LARGE FORMAT SOLUTIONS
Canon Production Printing will showcase its theme, Power to Move, at FESPA 2025 with a comprehensive portfolio of large-format printing technologies. Power to Move is where bold, high-impact print creates emotional connections, delivers business momentum and can transform spaces into unforgettable brand experiences.
Visitors can expect to see the Arizona flatbed range featuring FLXflow, a system designed to deliver exceptional image quality with seamless media compatibility. Canon’s Colorado M-series roll-to-roll printers with UVgel technology will also feature, showcasing highspeed, high-quality prints on a wide variety of media.
Canon will also demonstrate its collaboration with Neolt Factory, highlighting the Neolt Packaging Factory, which integrates Canon Colorado printers with industrial workflows for maximum throughput and minimal downtime.
NEOLT FACTORY’S VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF INDUSTRIAL PRINTING
Neolt Factory is pushing the boundaries of industrial printing with its state-of-the-art solutions designed to maximise productivity and streamline operations. At FESPA 2025, Neolt Factory will highlight its XY Plus Wallpaper Cutter, which offers a precision-driven approach to cutting wide-format prints. The system suits large-scale applications, ensuring seamless workflows and high-speed production.
Neolt Factory will also demonstrate the XY DTF Cutter and Sword ELS Vertical Cutter, showcasing the company’s versatile cutting capabilities for various materials such as Dibond and Plex.
Currie Group will support its partners, Canon Production Printing, EFI, Elitron and Neolt Factory at FESPA Berlin, providing a wealth of options to help businesses stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.
Contact Currie Group to discover more.
E: info@curriegroup.com.au
W: curriegroup.com.au
The Film Chick sees Mimaki UV Printer as Game-Changer
Currently operating out of a 360m²shed adjacent to her home in Windsor (Sydney), Kim
Sheridan – affectionately known by her long-established clients as ‘the film chick’ - offers pretty much a 24/7, on-demand sign production and install service. Her recent investment in a Mimaki JFX200-1213 EX mid-size flatbed UV printer is intended to be something of a gamechanger for Kim and the two businesses she trades under – Vinyl Print & Cut Warehouse and Graphic Film & Tinting. “I’m confident I can grow the production side of my businesses with this printer and that it will deliver the operational efficiencies that will enable me to take on someone else, allowing me to spread my load a bit more,” explains Kim.
A qualified chef, avid kick-boxer (‘until my knees went’) and proud Harley Davidson owner (two of them in fact!), #thefilmchick presents as the perfect handle for this selfstyled, ever-busy entrepreneur, who has been in the game for over 25 years now. “I started out doing sign installation, primarily for tradies, in and around the construction industry. I always had the attitude that I would get the signs put up that day if the client needed them, and I soon found that customers were asking for more and more. It became common for the site manager to say ‘ask the film chick if she can do that…’ so the name sort of stuck.”
Kim’s drive to always be prepared to go the extra mile is undoubtedly the cornerstone of her success, carving out a well-established reputation as the go-to person across all types of industry signage. Over time, she has expanded her own repertoire, while outsourcing and developing complementary supplier relationships where she couldn’t physically fill a brief by herself.
“These days, I can’t shimmy up a ladder or kneel for long periods because kick-boxing has wrecked my knees, so I’ve steadily had to move away from the physical instal and that’s led me to concentrate more on the production side,” notes Kim.
“That’s when the conversation with Shannon and Pete from Graphic Art Mart, and latterly Roger from Mimaki, first started: what kit would best enable me to take that next
important step for my businesses, without breaking the bank and without being too complex for me to self-learn on.”
“Kim was already a Graphic Art Mart and Mimaki customer,” notes Graphic Art Mart Business Manager, Peter Townsend, “with the relatively recent purchase of a Mimaki UCJV330-160 roll to roll printer/cutter, to facilitate her white printing on jobs like architectural window films.” (Interestingly, one of Kim’s latest business ventures is to use this to push out a range of wallpaper catalogues with themes like flora, brickwork, industrial, marble and 3D). “Knowing that Kim’s goal for 2025 is to become a one-stop shop for sign fabrication, bringing more of the rigid, direct-to-substrate work, like braille signs, photo blocks and corflute-type signage, in-house,” Pete continues, “it was a logical step to show her the newly released Mimaki JFX200-1213EX flatbed UV printer and no surprise to us that she quickly jumped at the chance of being the first business in the country to invest in the new printer.”
With a print size up to 1270 mm x 1300 mm, the new Mimaki JFX200-1213 EX has been recognised globally for its image quality and the value-add it can help drive as a stepping stone between desktop printing and more commercial offerings. Able to deliver up to 25m²/h productivity and even faster texture printing, Kim is confident that the printer will help her deliver important efficiencies for her business.
8 REASONS why CJV200
Practical 17.0 m2/h
PVC Standard at 17 m2/h with Dual CMYK. It is the top-class productivity of Entry level.
GBL-free SS22 ink
The SS22 ink inherits the exceptional performance of the industry-leading SS21 ink while being GBL-free
Better print quality at high speed
3200 nozzles and 3 pl droplets produce smoother skin tones and better saturation at high speed.
Print & Cut machine
ID Cut, zero-margin crop marks, and several advanced cutting features are available for enhanced precision and efficiency.
Check the printing operating status and ink usage at a glance.
Easy and accurate Media Set up
The Automatic Adjustment (DAS) function enables easy and accurate media setup, even for non-skilled operators.
5 Years Total Care
The fixed-price Total Care package includes print heads, parts, labor, travel fees, and yearly preventive maintenance services.
Remote Working is Not Going Away
It wasn’t that long ago that working from home was a strange concept afforded to only a few. When “you know what” happened five years ago, things changed. For those workers who didn’t need, or couldn’t, attend the workplace, the kitchen table, home internet connections, and video platforms became the norm. I remember having to see a man in an isolated warehouse to get an ergonomic work chair! They were a bit dodgy sounding, but an adjustable chair was as rare as hen’s teeth at the time! Nonetheless, we all endured, and we had remarkable resilience.
Although that period is well and truly in the rear-view mirror, the issue of remote working or working from home has remained, and I continue to receive related queries. By now, most businesses have their settings in place for the issue. Whether that has been a full return to the workplace, a hybrid model, or a similar arrangement, there are a few considerations to keep in mind to ensure your remote work arrangements are both productive and legally sound.
TRUST, BUT VERIFY
While trust is a wonderful thing, clearly drafted agreements are important when it comes to remote work. Any work-fromhome arrangement should be documented in writing as part of the employment contract or a separate working-from-home policy. This should include:
• Expectations around availability and working hours.
• Equipment and technology responsibilities – who supplies the equipment, and more importantly; who fixes it when it breaks.
• Confidentiality and data security obligations – especially if your employee’s home office doubles as a shared living space with chatty flatmates or curious toddlers.
• Reserve the right to direct an employee to attend the workplace when required and or to return to the workplace permanently if needed.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
It might be tempting to think that their safety is not your responsibility once your employee works from home. Unfortunately, the law doesn’t see it that way. Employers still have a duty of care for their employees’ health and safety, especially if the “workplace” involves a couch and a laptop perched on a stack of magazines.
Consider requiring employees to complete a simple workstation self-assessment and provide them with guidance on setting up a safe home workspace. And while it might sound like overkill, if someone’s reporting back pain from working on a beanbag for eight hours, that’s a workers’ compensation claim waiting to happen. Further, a periodic review of their home workspace is good practice.
PRODUCTIVITY v MICROMANAGEMENT
One of the trickiest parts of remote work is finding the balance between ensuring productivity without becoming the “Big Brother” of the virtual office. Regular checkins and performance metrics are acceptable; however, installing spyware that tracks every keystroke is less so. You should focus on outcomes rather than hours logged and trust that most people are probably working harder at home than you think.
OUT OF SIGHT, OUT OF MIND
One of the hidden pitfalls of remote work is the risk of creating two classes of employees
– the in-office crowd and the remote workers. It’s easy for those out of sight to be out of mind regarding promotions, training, or simply having their voices heard in the day-to-day decision-making. Make sure remote workers are included, participate in team meetings, and are given equal access to professional development.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Although not all roles are suited to it, remote working is not going away, and neither are the legal obligations that come with it. The key is approaching the issue with structure, flexibility, clear communication, and a healthy sense of humour. After all, if the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that there’s nothing quite like seeing your co-worker accidentally unmute themselves mid-Zoom call when delivering a monologue to their cat. By getting the policies and expectations right, you can keep your business compliant and your employees engaged, whether logging in from the office, the home office, or somewhere in between.
Charles Watson GM – IR, Policy and Governance Visual Media Association
Trade Shows Events Seminars
Exhibitions
Open Days Conferences Training
AUSTRALIA
ASGA GOLF DAY NSW signs.org.au
30 April 2025
Sydney, NSW
VISUAL IMPACT SYDNEY / PACPRINT 2025 pacprint.com.au
20 -23 May 2025
The Dome, Halls 2 & 3, Sydney Showground, NSW
ASSOCIATIONS NETWORKING EVENT
VISUAL IMPACT / PACPRINT 2025
20 May 2025
Forums Area, Visual Impact Show Floor
The Dome, Sydney Showground, NSW
ASGA GOLF DAY WA signs.org.au
5 June 2025
Perth, WA
WOMEN IN PRINT
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
womeninprint.com.au
11-12 August 2025
Melbourne, Victoria
FESPA AUSTRALIA CONFERENCE fespa australia.org
October 2025
Sydney, NSW
INTERNATIONAL
ISA INTERNATIONAL SIGN EXPO signexpo.org
23- 25 April 2025
Mandalay Bay Convention Centre, Las Vegas, USA
FESPA GLOBAL PRINT EXPO fespa.com
5-9 May 2025
Messe Berlin, Berlin, Germany
FESPA A/NZ DAY fespaaustralia.org.au
7 May 2025
Berlin, Germany
NZSDA AWARDS AND SIGN CONFERENCE awards.nzsda.net.nz 14 June 2025
Rutherford Hotel, Nelson, New Zealand
SIGN CHINA SHANGHAI www.signchinashow.com 17 – 19 September 2025
Shanghai New International Expo Centre
PRINTING UNITED EXPO www.printingunited.com 22 – 24 October 2025
Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida, USA
Photo Credit: Jonny Gios (Unsplash)
DENISE KIRBY
Using The Waste Hierarchy in Print
We live in an era of unprecedented consumerism, one in which our insatiable appetite for goods and convenience has far-reaching consequences. This trend impacts our society and economy and poses significant environmental challenges. Excessive consumption is depleting natural resources and contributing to alarming CO2 emissions, while waste disposal has become a critical issue.
THE HIDDEN CULPRITS OF WASTE
While plastic waste often dominates environmental discussions, it’s not the largest contributor to waste in landfills. Building and demolition materials comprise the largest portion of waste in Australia and New Zealand. This is followed by organic waste like food and garden waste. Even paper and cardboard generate more waste than plastic in landfills. The issue with plastic waste is not volume but its longevity and, in some cases, toxicity. Flexible PVC never really goes away and leaches chemicals into the environment as it breaks down.
RETHINKING SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVES
Many consumers and businesses seek alternatives to plastic because of its visibility and environmental impact. However, avoiding plastic and traditional substrates is not always better for the environment. Rather than judging materials as good or
bad solely based on their composition, it’s crucial to consider a material’s entire lifecycle to evaluate its environmental impact accurately.
A seemingly “greener” product may not be environmentally beneficial if it ends up in a landfill versus a” less “green” product being recycled. For instance, paper or board in landfills produces methane, which is twenty-three times more harmful to the environment than carbon dioxide. In the case of sign and print, would it be greener to use a self-adhesive film with a siliconised paper liner and send the liner to a landfill or a plastic liner that could be recycled? Is a plastic rigid board that can be reused and recycled better than a paper-based board that is less durable? Are digital screens more sustainable than printed campaigns? The key to sustainability is not just about the materials we use but how we dispose of them at the end of their life, the impact they have on the environment and the benefit they contribute to while in service.
Photo Credit: SvetliyAdobeStock
DENISE KIRBY
From a waste perspective, The Waste Hierarchy provides a useful framework for assessing end-of-life solutions and evaluating the materials we use. From best (1) to worst (4), The Waste Hierarchy prioritises options based on their environmental and health impacts:
THE WASTE HIERARCHY
1. Prevention and Minimisation: While complete prevention is not necessarily feasible …we wouldn’t have jobs or a business if we stopped printing on plastic, but minimising waste is entirely achievable. This can include reducing PVC use, optimising job management to minimise reprints and offcuts, and improving stock management.
2. Reusing and Recycling: Consider using modular systems that lend themselves to reuse substrates or parts thereof. Reusing rigid boards with replaceable graphics or employing frame and textile systems can significantly reduce material waste. Proper sorting and separation of packaging materials can also enhance recycling efforts. Designing with recycling in mind and avoiding mixing materials, which prevents recycling at end-of-life, are all initiatives that can help to divert waste from landfills.
3. Energy Recovery: While currently limited in the industry, waste-to-energy solutions and composting offer the potential for residual value from waste materials. While lower on the waste hierarchy, incineration is an effective way to create energy and use less impactful fossil fuels like coal if correctly
managed. While it doesn’t eliminate waste from landfills, it reduces its volume significantly by converting waste to ash.
4. Disposal: Landfill should be the last resort. Many industry materials, especially PVC, can take centuries to break down and release harmful toxins while doing so. While it’s never ideal to send material to landfills, using less toxic and durable plastics like some PVC-Free alternatives means less time breaking down in landfills and reduced toxicity.
MAKING INFORMED DECISIONS
Businesses can make more sustainable choices by considering The Waste Hierarchy during the design process. Being mindful of the end-of-life impact of products can lead to better decisionmaking and reduced environmental harm.
As we navigate the challenges of our consumer-driven society, it’s imperative to look beyond immediate convenience and habit and consider the long-term environmental impact of our choices. By integrating sustainability into our design and manufacturing processes, we can work towards a more responsible and environmentally conscious future.
DENISE KIRBY has nearly thirty years’ experience supplying self-adhesive media to the sign and print industry. Initially starting out in the family business as a distributor, she went on to work for leading self-adhesive manufacturers in marketing, business development and product management roles across Australia and New Zealand. She now has her own business, Kirbyco, which develops and supplies eco-friendly, recyclable and sustainable print media, and created ZERO, a product stewardship scheme which recycles end of life printed media. Denise is highly passionate about the industry and enjoys writing about applications, opportunities and new developments in print and signage. Her goal is to inspire people to explore new creative, functional and sustainable opportunities in print as well as educating the industry on products, trends and innovations.
Photo
Success isn’t a dirty word
Success doesn’t come overnight. In fact, for many, it may not come at all.
We’ve all heard it over the years; “Billy has gone out on his own, and he’s killin’ the pig. He bought a new $160,000 RAM ute and plays golf most Fridays. Last week, he went fishing for two work days. Why am I working for nothing when I can do what Billy has done.”
Scratch below the surface, and reality looks much different. I’ve used this analogy before, but it’s still relevant in this instance: Billy’s car loan costs him over $3,000 monthly in payments. He gets to play golf “most” Fridays because he doesn’t have enough work. The same applies to his ability to go fishing. Trust me, when you are starting off a new business, you never postpone work (income) to play golf, you simply can’t afford to.
What it looks like from the outside looking in is very deceiving. And let’s be honest: If we’re struggling financially or emotionally, it’s challenging to share with others. Especially if you leave your job and the guys are “idolising” you. It’s hard to shatter that myth. When Billy returns to the job he left a year previously, he explains he was doing great but just missed the camaraderie. What Billy really missed was getting a weekly pay cheque and not having to scrape up every job he could find to break even as well as the slowpaying customers.
So, when we business owners really start hitting significant financial goals and the business you started from your 2-car garage is now flying, why are we reluctant to embrace the success?
For most, it is because we don’t know if this is a long-term success or just a “sweet spot” that may disappear. If you are honest, you have already faced some serious challenges for anyone in business for more than ten years. If you haven’t, just wait, as I can assure you with every fibre of my being you most certainly will.
As time goes by, our confidence grows and we now know what our break even is and what jobs are the most profitable. After five or more years of attaining good profits (profit after you pay yourself wages), you are now paying your creditors as soon as they are due, there are no problems with updating new equipment, and your balance sheet looks very healthy.
You’ve always thought that if you could afford it, you would buy a Mercedes SUV. Your dad drove a Mercedes when you were young and it’s always been a dream to emulate your dad’s success. So, you lash out and buy it, all $140,000 worth. But… that first day when you drive it to work and park it in your bay, some staff look at you and you get this pit in your stomach.
“I should never have bought such an expensive car. Everyone will want a pay rise. What will the customers think if I’m driving a Mercedes? What on Earth was I thinking?”
My argument is this: Your staff should be ecstatic that the business is doing so well that the boss is driving an expensive car. No, I know, not everyone will think that way. But they should. It’s not their house on the loan documents.
Your clients should also think they are dealing with a successful business owner, which gives them confidence in awarding you large contracts.
Ask yourself this; Would you feel confident in your electrician if he turns up to your house in a 1970 Holden ute that is falling apart and his steps are old, rickety wooden ones? I know damn sure I wouldn’t.
Now, I have to confess, all of the above were the feelings my wife (and business partner) felt when we bought our first Mercedes/ BMW or upgraded our old ones.
It isn’t easy to embrace success at first.
But, as our success grew, I noticed something different from our staff. They began to admire our cars and congratulate us for upgrading. They felt pride in working for an obviously successful company.
To be fair, it can’t be one-way traffic. If you buy a $200,000 car but spend no money on upgrading software, facilities, or equipment, don’t expect everyone to applaud your success.
My father was one of the best self-taught signwriters in Australia. He had several sayings, many of which I still use to this day.
One was: “If you’re successful and rich, it’s because you’re a miserable, tight-fisted bloke. If you fail and go broke, it’s because you were a useless businessperson.” Now, I’ve cleaned that up a bit, but you get the gist. Remember, my father was at his best in the ’60s
and ’70s, so it’s far more old-school thinking, but the lesson can still apply. Then decide which of those options you would prefer.
Another of his sayings was “it’s no good being the richest bloke in the cemetery.”
The point is that once you become successful, it’s okay to spoil yourself and your staff and enjoy your success.
We would charter a seventy-foot boat for our end-of-year Christmas function and invite the entire team and partners for a night on the magnificent Swan River. At the night’s end we paid for Ubers to get them home safely. We never got 100% attendance, not everyone wants to socialise together or have family matters to attend. But those who came always asked if we can do the boat again next year.
If you’re doing well, spoil your team. They are the ones who work late at night and on weekends. Let them know you appreciate their dedication, but driving an expensive car or flying at the pointy end is also okay. Few people who have never worked for themselves can truly appreciate the stress and pressures, financial and emotional, that business owners are under.
So go on, buy that Mercedes AMG CLE 53. It’s no good being the richest bloke in the cemetery.
Success is a team effort.
VERNON KINGMAN is a highly respected and prominent figure in the signage industry. He is known for co-founding Kingman Visual in Perth with his wife, Dianne, in 1984. Starting from their garage, the business grew into one of Australia’s leading signage companies, known for major projects such as Perth’s Optus Stadium and the largest sky sign in Australia at St John of God Murdoch Hospital. In 2020, Vernon sold the company. He remains active in the industry as a consultant, continuing to influence and support other businesses in the field. You can contact Vernon at vernonjkingman@gmail.com
CHRISTINA BRUCE
Are You Leaving Money on the Table? The Cost of Untrained Selling
Most small business owners wouldn’t dream of letting an unqualified accountant handle their books or an untrained mechanic service their fleet. Yet, when it comes to sales, the lifeblood of any business, many owners assume their team (or even themselves) will “just figure it out.”
Sales is a skill, not a personality trait. If your team hasn’t been trained to sell effectively, how much revenue are you missing out on? Worse, how many potential customers have you lost because they became someone else’s loyal client while your team experimented on them?
THE MYTH OF THE “NATURAL SALESPERSON”
Too many business owners believe that sales ability is something you’re either born with or not. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Sure, some people have a natural charisma that helps, but selling is a learned skill. Without proper training, even the most outgoing team member may struggle to close deals, handle objections, or communicate real value to potential customers.
When you consider that you wouldn’t expect your team to master a complex piece of machinery without training, why would you expect them to master sales through trial and error?
THE HIDDEN COST OF UNTRAINED SALES TEAMS
Every lost opportunity, every botched sales conversation, and every unconverted lead represents money left on the table. The cost of not training your sales team isn’t just about missed revenue—it’s also about reputation.
• Lost Customers – If your salespeople aren’t asking the right questions or demonstrating value, prospects will go elsewhere.
• Damaged Brand – A bad sales experience can create negative word-of-mouth that lingers far longer than you’d like.
• Wasted Marketing Spend – If your business invests in generating leads but the sales team doesn’t know how to convert them, that’s wasted money.
• Burnout and Turnover – Salespeople who don’t know what they’re doing get frustrated and leave, increasing recruitment and training costs.
THE “FIGURE IT OUT” APPROACH IS COSTING YOU
Many small businesses operate under the assumption that sales training is a luxury rather than a necessity. They believe so much in “learning on the job” and that it will eventually lead to results, that their team is managed with a “sink or swim” strategy. But consider this:
• Would you eat from a chef without experience while they “figure out” how to run a restaurant’s kitchen during dinner rush?
• Would you allow an apprentice to “wing it” on an installation or car wrap for a major client?
So why would you expect an untrained salesperson to drive your revenue and represent your company professionally?
TRAINING TURNS SALES INTO A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE
The good news is that training your service and sales team doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, but it does need to be intentional. A structured approach can yield significant results in a short time.
1. Teach a Sales Process
A repeatable sales process ensures consistency. It helps your team know exactly what to do at each stage—from prospecting to closing. Without a process, salespeople rely on guesswork.
2. Focus on Value, Not Price
Many untrained sellers default to offering discounts to win business, but trained sales professionals know how to sell on value. They uncover customer pain points and position the product or service as the solution.
3. Sharpen Negotiation and Objection Handling Skills
Customers will have hesitations. If your salespeople can’t confidently address objections, deals slip through the cracks. Training gives them the tools to handle resistance effectively.
4. Roleplay Real Sales Scenarios
Practice makes perfect. If your sales team is learning what works
and what doesn’t in live customer interactions, you’re gambling with your revenue. Roleplaying everyday situations helps them refine their approach in a risk-free setting.
5. Make Sales Training a Continuous Process
Sales aren’t static. Market conditions change, customer expectations evolve, and competitors adjust their strategies. Regular training keeps your team sharp and ahead of the game and does not try to sell using outdated strategies.
THE BOTTOM LINE: TRAIN OR LOSE
If you haven’t trained your sales team; or are relying on the “figure it out” method; chances are, you’re leaving a significant amount of money on the table. Investing in sales training isn’t only an expense; it’s a revenue-generating decision and investment.
So, ask yourself: Are your salespeople (or you) truly equipped to sell effectively? Or are you just hoping for the best while potential customers walk away?
You have the choice.
You need to take control and train for success, or your competitors will do it, and overtake you.
PROVEN 4 Step Framework for converting prospects
Maximising the EOFY period with Meta Ads
If the End of the Financial Year (EOFY) is a crucial sales period for your organisation or perhaps for your retail customers, then advertising on Meta could help drive awareness of your services and the need to prepare collateral for the sales. But when should you start running EOFY campaign awareness for your clients, and how should you structure your campaigns for maximum impact?
This guide will break down key strategies for running successful EOFY Meta Ads and when to launch them for the best results. WHEN SHOULD YOU START ADVERTISING EOFY OFFERS?
Timing is everything in advertising, and EOFY is no exception. Here’s a suggested timeline for launching your EOFY campaigns:
1. Pre-Campaign Warm-Up (April - EarlyMay)
• Start teasing EOFY sales to your existing audience through organic social posts and email marketing.
• Run engagement and awareness campaigns to build a pool of warm leads.
• Use lead generation ads to collect emails from potential buyers interested in your EOFY offers, products and services or sales packages.
• Test different creatives, messages, and audience segments to isolate what resonates best.
2. Soft Launch (Early May - Early June)
• Start introducing your EOFY offers with early access promotions for VIP customers or email subscribers.
• Run traffic and conversion campaigns targeting warm audiences (website visitors, email subscribers, and past purchasers).
• Use retargeting to remind potential buyers about your upcoming deals.
• Increase ad frequency and budget gradually as you see engagement.
3. Peak EOFY Campaign and final push for suppliers to retailers (June 1 to June 10)
• This is the prime research period when consumers actively seek out EOFY deals and do research.
• Run high-intent conversion campaigns targeting your clients with strong CTAs emphasising urgency (e.g., “Limited Time Offer” or “Last Chance for EOFY Savings!”).
• Use carousel and video ads to highlight multiple products and showcase social proof.
• Scale budgets based on top-performing ads to maximise return on ad spend (ROAS).
• Add retargeting ads with countdown timers to drive urgency.
• Create a sense of urgency with “Final Days” messaging.
• If you offer sales and purchases directly from your website, use dynamic product ads (DPAs) to retarget business clients who have viewed your packages or offers but haven’t purchased them.
• Run reminder ads targeting cart abandoners and website visitors.
• Offer exclusive last-minute discounts or bonuses to drive conversions before it’s too late for them to capitalise on the EOFY sale period.
Photo
KEY STRATEGIES TO ADVERTISE EOFY OFFERS ON META ADS
1. Target the Right Audience
• Retarget Warm Audiences: Prioritise website visitors, social media engagers, and past customers.
• Lookalike Audiences: Expand reach by targeting people similar to your best customers.
• Interest & Behavioural Targeting: Focus on users interested in related categories, such as business services, tax deductions, or financial planning.
• Custom Audiences: Upload email lists and target previous buyers with exclusive EOFY offers.
2. High-Converting Ad Creatives Your creative should immediately communicate value and urgency. Here’s how to do it:
• Bold Headlines: Use clear, direct messaging such as “EOFY SALE: Save 30% Before June 30!”
• Strong Visuals: Showcase your products or services in action with carousel ads, video demos, or before-and-after results.
• Social Proof: Incorporate testimonials, reviews, or usergenerated content to boost credibility.
• Urgency & Scarcity: To encourage quick action, use countdown timers, limited stock messages, and deadline reminders.
3. Leverage Multiple Ad Formats
• Carousel Ads: Great for showcasing multiple products or different value propositions.
• Video Ads: Engaging content that tells a compelling story about your EOFY deals.
• Dynamic Product Ads: Automatically retarget users with the products they viewed on your site.
• Stories & Reels Ads: Capture mobile users’ attention with fullscreen creative.
4. Optimise Your Landing Pages
• Ensure your landing page is fast-loading, mobile-friendly, and conversion-optimised.
• Keep the messaging consistent with your ads to avoid confusion.
• Use clear CTAs such as “Shop Now,” “Claim Your Discount,” or “Limited Time Offer.”
• To reduce friction, offer multiple payment options, including Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL).
5. Use Smart Bidding Strategies
• Start with the Lowest Cost (Auto Bidding): Let Meta’s algorithm find the most cost-effective conversions.
• Switch to Cost Cap or Bid Cap: If you want more control over your cost per acquisition (CPA), test manual bidding strategies.
• Increase Budget on Winning Ads: Monitor performance and spend more on top-performing creatives and audiences.
Meta Advertising can help you target your retail clients to think about EOFY with longer lead times.
6. Run a Retargeting and Remarketing Strategy
• Retargeting Window: Segment audiences by engagement level (e.g., viewed product but didn’t add to cart vs. added to cart but didn’t purchase).
• Exclusive Discounts: Offer special discounts for engaged users who didn’t buy.
• Reminder Ads: Keep reminding users about the impending EOFY deadline with countdown creatives.
7. Test, Analyse and Optimise
• A/B Test Creatives & Copy: Try different visuals, ad formats, and messaging to identify what performs best.
• Monitor Key Metrics: Focus on CTR (Click-Through Rate), ROAS (Return on Ad Spend), and Conversion Rate.
• Adjust in Real-Time: If an ad isn’t performing, tweak targeting, creatives, or budget allocations.
EOFY is a golden opportunity to boost sales and attract new customers, but success depends on timing, targeting, and execution. Starting early and optimising your ad creatives can drive significant revenue before the financial year closes.
Do you need expert help running your EOFY Meta Ads campaign? Contact our team to maximise your sales potential today.
CASS THEODORE is a Digital Marketer and Founding Director of That Mrkg agency. She specialises in strategic performance marketing with over ten years of experience. She is a highly creative marketer who creates targeted and effective marketing campaigns, with expertise in strategic marketing and social ads. Cass has a proven track record of driving significant increases in website traffic, lead generation, and revenue growth for her clients. Cass is the ideal partner for businesses looking to thrive in the digital landscape, offering expertise in strategic marketing planning, social media ads, email marketing, and invaluable marketing consulting services. www.thatmrkg.com
Photo Credit: AdobeStock - Sammby
When Liquidations Surge in an Industry
What Directors Need to Know About Personal Liability
It’s hard not to notice the recent increase in business liquidations. According to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), insolvency statistics for the period up to 29 September 2024 reveal a 43% increase in total insolvencies during the first three months of the 2024–25 financial year compared to the same period in the previous financial year.
Between 1 July and 29 September, 3,568 companies entered external administration or had a controller appointed, 1,073 more than during the September quarter in 2023. This sharp rise raises concerns for business owners, particularly company directors, who may face serious legal and financial consequences if their companies become insolvent.
WHY ARE LIQUIDATIONS ON THE RISE?
The surge in business insolvencies is primarily driven by several economic pressures, including:
• High inflation and rising interest rates have significantly increased borrowing costs and reduced profitability.
• Cost of living pressures, leading to reduced consumer spending and lower demand for goods and services.
• Supply chain disruptions have affected businesses’ ability to procure materials and fulfil orders.
• Mounting operational expenses, such as rent, wages, and utility costs, which have squeezed profit margins.
Small businesses and sectors such as retail and hospitality have been particularly impacted due to tight cash flows and reduced demand. Many businesses that previously relied on government stimulus measures or loan deferrals during the COVID-19 pandemic
are now struggling to stay afloat in a more challenging economic environment.
THE LINK BETWEEN INSOLVENCY AND LIQUIDATION
A major red flag that precedes liquidation is insolvency. But what does insolvency mean?
A business is deemed insolvent when it cannot meet its financial obligations as they become due. Insolvency is assessed in two primary ways:
1. Cash Flow Insolvency – The business cannot pay its debts when they fall due, even if its assets exceed its liabilities (also known as commercial insolvency).
2. Balance Sheet Insolvency occurs when a business’s liabilities exceed its assets, meaning it does not have enough resources to cover its debts, even if it can still make some payments.
SIGNS OF INSOLVENCY
Directors should watch for warning signs that may indicate their company is at risk of insolvency:
• Persistent cash flow problems
• Missed or late payments to suppliers, employees, or creditors
• Increasing debt or reliance on credit to cover expenses
• Legal action from creditors (e.g., statutory
demands, court judgments)
• Warnings from accountants or auditors
Ignoring these warning signs can result in severe consequences, including forced liquidation, legal action, and personal liability for company debts.
CONSEQUENCES OF INSOLVENCY
When a company becomes insolvent, the following outcomes may occur:
• Restructuring or liquidation – Selling off assets to pay debts and winding down operations.
• Administration – A temporary management process to explore business recovery options.
• Bankruptcy – If a business is operated as a sole trader, the individual may face personal bankruptcy.
• Legal actions – Creditors may initiate winding-up petitions or force liquidation.
DIRECTORS’ LIABILITY IN INSOLVENCY
Company directors are not automatically liable for business debts, but there are key situations where they can be held personally responsible. These include:
a) Director Penalty Notices (DPNs) –Unpaid Taxes
In Australia the ATO can hold directors personally responsible for unpaid company tax debts, including:
• PAYG Withholding Tax (employee tax deductions)
• Superannuation contributions (retirement fund payments)
• GST liabilities
If these taxes remain unpaid, directors may receive a Director Penalty Notice (DPN), requiring them to repay these amounts personally. Failure to address a DPN promptly can lead to severe financial and legal consequences.
b) Wrongful or Insolvent Trading
If directors allow the company to continue trading while insolvent, they may be personally responsible for additional debts incurred. In Australia, directors must prevent the company from incurring further debts once they become aware of insolvency.
Civil penalties, fines, or criminal charges may apply if directors fail to act appropriately. Courts may order directors to compensate creditors for losses resulting from insolvent trading.
c) Breach of Fiduciary Duties
Directors have a legal duty to act in the company’s and its creditors’ best interests. If they:
• Misuse of company funds
• Engage in fraudulent transactions
• Recklessly disregard financial risks They could be sued personally, leading to significant financial losses and reputational damage.
d) Personal Guarantees on Loans
Many directors personally guarantee business loans, leases, or supplier contracts. If the company becomes insolvent, creditors can pursue directors personally to recover outstanding debts. This can have devastating financial consequences, including losing personal assets such as homes and savings.
HOW DIRECTORS CAN REDUCE PERSONAL LIABILITY
Directors can take proactive steps to minimise their risk of personal liability:
• Act early – Seek professional advice from accountants, insolvency practitioners, or legal experts if the business shows distress.
• Ensure tax obligations are met – Always pay PAYG, GST, and superannuation on time.
• Avoid trading while insolvent – If insolvency is likely, take immediate steps to restructure or liquidate the business responsibly.
• Maintain proper financial records –Detailed financial documentation can
demonstrate that directors acted prudently and in good faith.
• Limit personal guarantees – Negotiate business loans and supplier contracts without personal guarantees.
• Consider voluntary administration –If a business is struggling, voluntary administration may provide a pathway to restructuring and survival.
TAKE ACTION NOW
If your business is facing financial distress, the key is to act early. Seeking advice from insolvency professionals or financial advisors can help you explore options like restructuring, voluntary administration, or liquidation while minimising personal risk. When businesses in our community or industry sink into liquidation, it is a stark reminder that economic challenges can impact businesses of all sizes. Directors must stay informed, monitor the financial health of their companies, and take decisive action to protect the business and their personal financial futures.
Please don’t wait until it’s too late; take proactive steps today to safeguard your business and personal assets.
Your car. Protected.
Single application for color change and protection
Protects paint against chips, scratches, stains and the elements
Stunning paint-like, mirror finish
Thicker than typical vinyl films*
Self-healing technology allows minor scratches to disappear
Exceptional scratch and stain resistance for easy maintenance
Nearly 30 premium colour offerings, including gloss, matte and metallic.
