News


Solar panels to be installed at Premier branches


Paper supplier, Premier will be installing solar panels across multiple branches with the hopes of completing the project by the end of 2025.


The initiative is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainable business practices as it looks to transition to clean, renewable energy.


The panels installed on the first five of its 18 locations, once fully operational, are projected to generate more than 547,500 kWh of electricity annually and reduce Premier’s gas emissions and dependency on fossil fuels. Marketing director, Hussein Ismail, said: “We are incredibly proud to take this next step in our sustainability journey.


“The solar panels will not only allow us


to power most of our daily operations with renewable energy but will also support the UK’s transition to a low-carbon economy. “It’s a win-win situation for both our company and the environment.”


The solar panel project is being carried out in collaboration with Centreco, whose expertise in renewable energy installations ensures that Premier’s project is executed to the highest standards.


FESPA Global Print Expo to return to Berlin


FESPA Global Print Expo is set to return to Berlin in May for the first time in three years. It, along with its co-located events, European Sign Expo and Personalisation Experience, will aim to unite visionaries across and beyond print, signage and personalisation. Michael Ryan, head of FESPA Global Print Expo, said: “We’re thrilled to be back in Berlin this year with our new strapline: ‘Where Visionaries Meet’. “This year’s message shines the spotlight on our futuristic and forward-thinking FESPA community, including our visitors, exhibitors, award winners, association heads and more. “In an ever-evolving industry like ours, it is vital


FESPA Global Print Expo


that we are consistently looking forward. How can we guarantee a sustainable future? How is AI impacting the sector? The possibilities for our community are endless and we look forward to highlighting them at our 2025 events.” Visitors will be able to explore an array of technologies, media, services and consumables from confirmed exhibitors including: 3M, Brother, Caldera, Canon, Durst, EFI, EFKA, Epson, Fujifilm, Kit Builder, Kongsberg, Optimus Group Limited, Roland, Ricoh, and swissQprint. FESPA will take place from May 6 to May 9.


Young people heart of new FESPA UK initiative


FESPA UK has launched a new initiative designed to offer meaningful opportunities to young people, helping them gain work experience and progress into employment.


The organisation has invited employers across England and Wales to take part in the Next Gen Initiative – Next Gen Support, designed to help connect young people with careers in the print, signage, and graphics industry. The programme is fully funded and offers a


six-week work placement followed by a one-year internship.


At the end of the internship, participants will


be awarded a FESPA UK recognition certificate, confirming their experience and strengthening their future career opportunities but ideally, it would end with a full-time role. Employers who participate in the programme will not only help nurture the next generation of talent but also benefit from fresh perspectives and potential long-term employees. Molly Jackson, FESPA UK’s marketing and content executive, and head of the Next Gen Project, said: “This initiative is a real game changer


for our industry. “These learners bring fresh ideas,


determination, and invaluable skills that will genuinely enhance businesses. “It was time for change, and I hope more companies recognise the potential and impact of giving these young people the opportunities they deserve.”


Managing director, Suzi Ward, said: “It’s truly incredible to see the Next Gen Project evolve into this exciting new phase. “Supporting young people from all walks of life is so important, and those with disabilities have just as much to offer as any other employee.”


Global Graphics extends partnership with Mimaki


Global Graphics is extending its partnership with Mimaki to continue to provide the printer company with its trademark software. Mimaki, which is a Japanese manufacturer of inkjet printers, will continue to license the software company’s Harlequin Core technology for its latest RasterLink Raster Image Processor (RIP) software which drives its range of wide format, roll-to-roll and flatbed industrial printers. Harlequin Core converts a page description language into a format that can be interpreted by a printing device, such as an inkjet print head, toner marking engine or laser plate setter.


Girls Who Print becomes non-profit organisation


The world’s largest network of women in print and graphic communications has officially transitioned into a global non-profit organisation. Girls Who Print has been an established community since 2009 where it began as a group on LinkedIn but has now grown to be an international body supporting women in the traditionally male-dominated print industry. Deborah Corn, executive director of the organisation, said: “Our evolution demonstrates the power of shared purpose and community. “We are positioned to further expand our global reach and create more opportunities for women to excel through all stages of their careers.” Membership is open to women and allies


worldwide, offering a space to connect, learn, and grow. Sponsorships allow organisations to support this movement while boosting their brand visibility.


Additional capabilities include full support for the latest platforms, latest PDF specifications and extended colour gamut printing. Yoshiyuki Hagiwara, representative director, of Global Graphics KK in Japan, said: “We are delighted to extend our long-standing collaboration with Mimaki. “This renewed agreement highlights the exceptional performance and reliability of Harlequin Core.


“Its flexibility and extensive customisation options enable our customers to deliver tailored solutions that drive their success.”


New hires for Drytac


Drytac has bolstered its ranks within the UK and Irish markets after announcing a double hire to the new position of product specialist. Anthony Shelmerdine and Steve Payne, have joined the self-adhesive manufacturer to oversee business development, build relationships with customers and work closely with them to provide the the best product advice. Mr Payne previoulsy worked as a production manager for graphics companies while Mr Shelmerdine has experience working as a sales executive at a sign making company. The pair will now work with the company’s exclusive UK stockist and partner Premier to promote its suite of products through presentations and training sessions. Kieran Blacknall, operations manager at Drytac, said: “Both Steve and Anthony are ideally suited to the new positions and bring years of experience.”


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