The super-wide-printer was showcased at FESPA in May causing interest as it is available in 3.2m and 5m widths prompting the question, how wide can wide-format go? The answer is probably wider still, but operators and factory owners will tell you it is all about handling issues as once the print comes off the press you need a lot of space to process the finished product.

“We are a design-led business aiming to push the boundaries for our clients,” says Peter Onyskiw, technical director at Echo House. “Specialising in every aspect of the creative production process, from design through to fulfilment and installation, our extensive knowledge and experience within the luxury goods retail market, world renowned museums, and the exhibitions sector, allows us to achieve the highest standards, no matter what the challenge.”

Echo’s work includes prints and installations for the Victoria and Albert Museum, Kew Gardens and the Saatchi Gallery with requests for super large prints. For excessively wide prints, such as those seen at sporting arenas, a series of wide strips are connected to create a single unit. To assemble and transport super-wide prints is a job in itself, so the jury is out as to how much wider wide-formats can go.

Echo’s work includes prints and installations for the Victoria and Albert Museum, Kew Gardens and the Saatchi Gallery with requests for super large prints”

Kevin Rhodes, marketing applications manager, Fujifilm Speciality Ink Systems, comments: “The Fujifilm Acuity series has long been known for its quality and reliability and, by adding this super-wide model to the range, we are now also offering customers a big step-up in quality and productivity. With the extra width, the option to print on three rolls simultaneously and the ability to print at high speeds with no compromise on quality, the Acuity Ultra will appeal to larger businesses and major luxury brands, helping them to boost production levels and profitability in this highly-competitive sector.”

Fujifilm says: “Available in either 3.2 or 5m widths, and capable of delivering exceptional quality, the Acuity Ultra makes the production of high-end graphics much more profitable than ever previously possible. With a 3.5pl drop size ensuring the highest possible quality – comparable with litho and leading water-based ink systems – the machine is ideal for the high-end, indoor display market, especially for luxury brands. Furthermore, the format size, multi-roll potential and impressive speed give it the ability to print these high-value applications quickly and efficiently.”

What do you think? Could we see 10m wide printers in the future or has the zenith been reached? Email your views to Harry@linkpublishing.co.uk or call me on 0117 9805 040. Or react to the story on Twitter and have your say.

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