News


EcoVadis awards Epson Platinum rating


Epson has earned a platinum rating for sustainability from EcoVadis, placing the company in the top 1% of those assessed. The company increased its score from 77 to 83 (out of 100), despite stricter criteria. It achieved outstanding rankings within its industry, placing in the top 1% for both Environment and Labour & Human Rights, and in the top 2% for Sustainable Procurement. It also ranked in the top 30% for Ethics. President, Takanori Inaho, said: “This platinum certifi cation follows our continuous implementation of measurable initiatives aimed at identifying and resolving societal and environmental challenges.” The company also aims to be carbon-negative and underground resource-free by 2050. Boris Manev, sustainability director, added: “We have a clear vision: to pioneer sustainable innovation and set new standards in environmental responsibility. “Our rating not only refl ects our leadership in product excellence and innovation but also our dedication to making our industry more sustainable.”


This assessment shows responsibilty and accountabiliy are important to Epson.


New operations manager and global product launch for Drytac


Drytac has promoted Kieran Blacknall to operations manager. Having joined the company in 2023, he


moved from his former role as academy manager, where he signifi cantly contributed to the global success of Drytac. Mr Blacknall will now oversee day-to-day operations and help plan and execute strategies to achieve Drytac’s long-term goals. One such objective has been the worldwide release of the company’s Polar Smooth 150 Air range.


The self-adhesive fi lm is available in both


permanent and removable options, and at 6 mil (150µ) thick, it is easier to install than thinner alternatives.


It is also coated in a pressure-sensitive adhesive and paired with an air egress release liner for bubble-free installation. Mr Blacknall said: “The product has been a great success in North America, with users praising its easy installation and print quality. “We are delighted that even more customers will now have access to the material.” It was made available to customers worldwide on November 26.


10 | December 2024/January 2025


Yianni Charalambous helps Roland DG fi nd Europe’s next car-wrapping star


Car-wrapping infl uencer, Yianni Charalambous helped Roland DG crown Mike Szwacki as Europe’s next car-wrapping star. The owner of Yiannimize was a panel member


overseeing the printer company’s Wrap Academy event at BWT’s Technical Centre in Enstone, Oxfordshire.


With more than six million followers on social


media, he shared his insight with the 10 contestants as they competed to see who was best. Mr Szwacki, founder of MEK Wrap Squad, was the winner, impressing the judges with his skill and precision. For winning the competition, he was invited to


support BWT Alpine Formula One Team, partner of Roland DG, at a motorsport event in Las Vegas. He said: “Today was unbelievable. I learnt so much


at the event, but what shone through was the power of teamwork in this industry and that’s what matters.”


Yianni Charalambous (left) smiling with Wrap Academy winner Mike Szwacki (centre)


Mr Charalambous added: “The talent all brought their A-game and it was great to see car wrappers from all over Europe come together and showcase their talent. “The Wrap Academy is a great initiative, and I look forward to seeing the future success of Mike and all the other participants in our industry.”


Dataline expands European portfolio with PRAGMA takeover


Dataline has acquired PRAGMA Informationssysteme as the company plans to strengthen in the European market. It took over PRAGMA – developer of Chroma


software – from Bertsch Innovation as it joins the list of previously successful acquisitions across Europe such as Insad (Netherlands), Loiston (Finland), and Palmart (Spain). Dirk Deroo, CEO of Dataline, said: “With


PRAGMA as a strong partner, we can now establish a solid foundation in the DACH region and serve our customers better at the local level.


“This investment not only adds a valuable customer portfolio to our company but also brings a team of experienced and motivated specialists.”


Michael Baumeister, director of PRAGMA, added: “The graphic arts industry in Germany needs advanced automation and powerful workfl ows to maintain its competitiveness in the global market. “Dataline’s expertise and products prove to be perfectly suited for this, and we fi rmly believe that together we can make great strides.”


Visitor registration for Sign & Digital UK is now open


The organisers of Sign & Digital UK have announced that visitor registration for the exhibtion is now open. Sign makers and digital printers are invited to join the in crowd and register to attend the UK’s only dedicated exhibition for the visual communications sector.


SDUK is on track to be another inspiring event for the industry, with key names such as printMAX, Quality Print Services, Soyang Europe and InkTec Europe having already signed up to exhibit once again.


A number of suppliers who haven’t exhibited at the show in recent years are also back, including; A&E Sewing, Godrich Sewing Machines, Hexis UK and Premier Bond.


SDUK is renowned as the place to see new product launches for the very fi rst time in the UK. Exhibitors choose to use the exhibition as a


Visitor registration is now open


platform to showcase and demonstrate their latest innovations to a wide, engaged and relevant audience. Expect to see new products from the likes of Roland DG, Epson and Vivid Laminating Technologies, among others. Both The Sign Makers’ Studio (formerly The Sign Studio) and The Explains Lounge are back for 2025, where visitors can expect to receive the same knowledgeable advice and tips from experts from across the industry. The sessions are designed to cater for all levels of experience and provide the knowhow needed to succeed in 2025. The timetables will be announced in January. Sign & Digital UK will take place in Hall 19 at the NEC in Birmingham from Sunday, February 23 to Tuesday, February 25.


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