PRISM
Keeping up with change
From updates on the latest environmental legislation to future applications for screen and digital printing, Prism helps printers keep up with the pace of change
E
nvironmental legislation is continuously evolving with an obvious impact on the printing industry. The latest update of the Planet Friendly Guide explains in simple language all a printer needs to know about relevant environmental legislation from Brussels and Westminster.
More importantly, the guide explains how to make best use of the legislation. Paul Machin of Machin Consulting took the time to digest the information out there and make it understandable. He believes that it is extremely difficult for printers to keep up with the changes without help, which is why the Planet Friendly Guide is an essential tool for users of print technology. Available from the Prism website, the guide advises printers how to gain advantage from conforming to the legislation and actually increase profitability.
Looking ahead
Potential profit boosting ideas of the future were the order of the day at the ESMA Functional Printing Event in Dusseldorf. Delegates took a look at how screen printing is evolving and being
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used in leading edge technologies. The event also focussed on digital printing and its role in precision applications such as printed electronics, solar cells, batteries, sensors and a range of functional applications, including the ubiquitous membrane switch.
The use of nanotechnology in specialist ink systems was particularly interesting. Having the ability to change the characteristics of common materials using this technology opens up many applications to printing.
As this event highlights, the market is growing and applications previously not dream of are appearing day by day. Prism, the UK FESPA Association, is embracing these technologies and developing as a contact point for specialist printing.
As such, Prism will be exhibiting at Sign and Digital UK on 12 to 14 April at the NEC. Existing and potential members are welcome to visit the stand, with the show organisers forecasting large numbers of visitors to this annual exhibition. Fortunately, this optimism is mirrored throughout industry with members reporting improved trading conditions, but the pressure
on suppliers with increased material costs will undoubtedly impact the industry.
Quality concerns
One issue that is being discussed more often is the quality and reliability of goods and services coming from the Far East. Material that is not up to specification, late deliveries and chemicals that do not conform to REACH are all becoming more common. As demand in their home market increases so our supply is compromised. As a result, there is no doubt that as economies and companies, we are going to have to look closer to home for products and services. To continue to prosper, we need quality and reliability.
Perhaps it's time we all considered the following question: 'Who is most important to your company?' The answer is not customers, but suppliers. It is always possible to find new customers, but without suppliers you don’t have a business!
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www.prismuk.org March/April 2011 l SCREEN PROCESS AND DIGITAL IMAGING 25
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