Sign Design GB expands inhouse capabilities with Epson SC-V7000

Sign Design GB has brought a range of services inhouse, enhanced production capacity and is now exploring further application opportunities following their investment in an Epson SureColor SC-V7000 UV flatbed printer.

Established in 2009, the Tees Valley signage solution specialist works with the construction, retail, education, manufacturing, transport and medical industries. It chose the system to enable greater control over quality consistency, reduce turnaround times and eliminate additional costs.

Ben Kennedy, Commercial Director at Sign Design GB, explains: “We were sub contacting about £80,000 to £100,000 of direct-to-substrate work a year. We decided it was time to bring that in-house so we could ensure consistency, reduce turnaround times, cut our carbon footprint and also develop that part of the business. Now we have additional capacity and the ability to offer some unique products. We can promote these services more widely, confident in the knowledge we can deliver the desired results. We can also explore other application possibilities, run samples, and show clients what is possible.”

He continues: “We looked at what was on the market and chose the Epson system for two reasons. First, ease of use was very important. We wanted something that was operator friendly and not too complicated to use. Despite its specialist features, there is no need for specialist training and we already have four people confident in running it.”

The Epson SureColor SC-V7000 flatbed printer was supplied by Epson reseller Perfect Colours. Ben comments: “The second reason we chose the Epson was because of the support from Perfect Colours. We have bought a number of solutions from them over the years, and they are always very helpful. They provide the right level of technical help and it is good to know they are there even if we don’t need them.”

The system has been in for just a couple of weeks. “There have been no problems at all”, comments Ben. “It is working very well, and we have been running it every day. It will enable us to continue to grow in the direct-to-substrate sector and develop a more complete and versatile offering for our clients. It will also enable us to employ another apprentice in this area of the business.”

He adds. “By completing the work inhouse we can better improve our margins and ensure quality consistency.”

Darren Walker, Regional Director at Perfect Colours, adds: “After undertaking a review, Sign Design GB took the considered decision to drive operational growth by investing in Epson technology. It did this knowing it could access ongoing support if it was ever needed.  We were delighted to help them make the best investment choice for their requirements and look forward to continuing their journey with them.”

The SureColor SC-V7000, Epson's first UV large format printer, allows sign and display makers to expand their portfolio of products. It offers exceptional image quality and the flexibility to print on a wide range of media. It was developed for printing eye-catching retail and outdoor signage, window displays, hoarding panels, packaging, promotional goods, and décor products. It manages a versatile range of applications, which enables companies to expand their product offering and deliver consistently high-quality results. It features Epson’s unique UltraChrome UV ink configuration, including red, grey, white and varnish.

Photo Caption - Ben Kennedy, Commercial Director, and Lyndsay Wind, Operations Director, with the Epson SureColor SC-V7000.