Business

Having been founded as a large-format trade print operation in 1992, Macro Art had been enjoying a significant growth spurt when it underwent an MBO in 2014. At that time, the new management team were confident of continued expansion. Now the Saint Neots-based company is making its first acquisition and opening a London branch. I asked commercial director Michael Green about the expansion. By Lesley Simpson

Getting little joy from those that provided you with kit that’s not performing to expectation? Then try this route to dispute resolution, recommended by Brian Sims, principal consultant at Metis Print Consultancy.

Does this sound familiar? “Hello, I’d like a quote for 20 posters needed by Friday.” “No problem, I’ll email your quote over. You would have to have your artwork with us by Wednesday…” Wednesday arrives, but no artwork.

The Massivit 1800 large-scale 3D printer created a real buzz when it was shown at Drupa. And Watford-based Stylographics has done likewise by being the first UK printer to buy one. I met with MD Simon Olley to talk about the investment. 

Given the huge scope of Drupa, we asked manufacturers and PSPs within the large-format inkjet arena: What did the show tell you about technological developments/trends that could impact large-format print? Here’s what they said…

Frans Johansson, author of the ‘The Medici Effect’ and founder of The Medici Group, took the Drupa Cube by storm with his keynote on strategic innovation. Here’s what he had to say…

Inurface Media does just what it says on the tin – delivers digital signage solutions that make a real impact. But it’s not all about screens; the central London-based company works closely with a number of print companies to deliver integrated visual solutions for various markets, including retail, events, hospitality…

It’s easy to be blase about the data you own, manage and process. Easy but possibly expensive. The regulators can name and shame you, fine you or freeze your systems and bring your business to a standstill. Here Walter Hale tries to help you not get caught in the traps.

All PSPs need to continually invest in new technology to remain competitive. But there are ways and means to getting the best from your spend as Cestrian explains.

Given its early adopter status when it comes to digital fabric printing, it might come as little surprise to learn that Kent-based theatrical drapery company Prompt Side has become the first to buy an EFI Vutek FabriVu 340 textile printer.

So you have business insurance. But is your policy fit for purpose now you’ve diversified? Scott Williams of First Insurance Solutions highlights considerations that might have escaped your notice.

Chris Boyd-Leslie, head of creative development at Oasis Graphics, devotes his time to exploring new inkjet print possibilities. His work is starting to pay off. Here’s how.

Silas Amos, a designer and design strategist, is a keynote speaker at the Drupa Cube this year.  He “helps create, interpret and express insight and strategy through design literate eyes”.

Targets can be very helpful, of course, but directors too often encourage their people to commit to a number - say, annual revenue growth of 7% - even though the path to achieving it isn’t clear. This can lead companies to chase growth in too many directions.