Leeds-based Imageco has bought one of the first HP Latex 800W printers. It is one of four models (700,800, 700W and 800W) in a new series of the water-based Latex machines – the ‘W’ denoting white ink capability.
The printers incorporate updated printheads with more nozzles and producing speeds of up to 36m2/hr, allowing the HP Latex 800 and 800W to offer 50% higher productivity levels compared to previous HP models.
Recent HP research reveals that 85% of PSP customers now demand sustainable products and practices. To meet this requirement, the new Latex printers use the HP Eco Carton – a cartridge made with cardboard material, reducing the amount of plastic used by 80%.
Operationally, HP PrintOS also enables PSPs to monitor and control their print fleet using a cloud-based interface they can use virtually anywhere, anytime.
HP has also introduced an updated Latex print-and-cut portfolio that is compatible with the Latex 700 and 800 series. Equipped with the latest Rip and completely new contour cutters, the devices are said to have improved usability. The range includes: HP Latex 335, 315 and 115 Print and Cut Plus Solutions, HP Latex 64 and 54 Plus Cutting Solutions, and HP Latex 54 Basic Plus Cutting Solution.
Updated features include optimised cutting via enhanced Optical Position System (OPOS) configurations. As part of this improvement, the HP cutter reads the black inner lines along the job and carries out additional measurements, further aided by new HP barcodes located on the printed sheets to identify jobs.
Cutting on the new Latex 64 and 54 Plus Cutting Solutions is enhanced by a higher cutter downforce of up to 600gr.
Completing announcements from HP are additions to its PageWide XL suite of large-format print solutions aimed at enterprise and mid-market companies, as well as repro houses serving the architecture, engineering and construction industries. These are: the PageWide XL 3920, XL 4200, XL 4700 and XL 5200 and XL 8200 printer/MFPs.
HP has added a dedicated section to its Virtual Booth for those wanting to see the HP Latex 700 and 800 series through an interactive online viewing.
Imageco MD Nathan Swinson-Bullough said of his investment in the HP Latex 800 W: “The list of what we can produce on the HP Latex 800 W is almost endless – we love to push ourselves and will get as creative as possible with the new machine.”
Imageco placed its order late last year, with the new device set to be installed within a matter of weeks.
The company – already running an HP Latex 570 printer – had been seeking a new machine to replace an older Durst Lambda, which it had been mainly using to produce photographic backlit applications. Swinson-Bullough said: “I knew that HP Latex technology could be the answer. When I was told a new model was being developed, I requested some test prints. We were blown away with the quality. It really does take quality to the next level.”
He added: “The machine is extremely versatile – importantly for us, it can produce the backlit film for gaming and retail, but we will also be using it to service lots of other applications. For example, the new fine text with white ink printing option opens up smaller label work, it also further supports our interior wallpapers, lightbox fabric and window graphics work.”
Given the HP Latex 800 series uses water-based ink, Swinson-Bullough said it is perfect for interior print work. He also pointed out that the machine has parts made from recycled plastic, further enhancing its environmental credentials.
“We pride ourselves on many things at Imageco: our creativity, our level of service and our sustainable edge. The HP Latex 800 W ticks all those boxes, it looks great and will be a huge asset for us, fitting perfectly with our plans to be as innovative yet sustainable as possible.”
Investment in the HP Latex 800 came towards the end of what was a challenging year for many print businesses. The Covid-19 pandemic led to a sharp decline in two of Imageco’s core segments in the form of events and exhibitions, and retail.
However, Swinson-Bullough said the company was able to quickly adapt to the situation, first helping with the production and distribution of face visors for the NHS, on a charitable basis, and later picking up printed work related to social distancing. They won ‘The COVID-19 Extra Mile Award’ at the British Sign Awards 2020 as a result of their efforts.
Throughout the pandemic Imageco continued to see steady levels of demand for exterior signage. Swinson-Bullough explains that this part of the business was not impacted so much, with businesses taking the enforced downtime to rebrand and refresh their images, create new websites, and address their carbon footprints.
Backed by the new HP Latex 800 W printer and its ability to handle a wide range of work, Swinson-Bullough said Imageco is now looking towards a more positive year in 2021 as it seeks to further expand its business.
