Industry News NEWS IN BRIEF
Signs Express Worcester has entered a new chapter following a management buyout by long-standing team members Mac Jenkinson and Rich Larkin. Roland DG is set to launch Dimense Surface, a new premium interior wallcovering brand, at London Design Festival 2026, with an immersive exhibition showcasing the creative potential of textured surfaces. Pyramid Display Materials has strengthened its UK logistics operation with the addition of five new MAN delivery vehicles, increasing capacity across its national distribution network. Perfect Colours has announced
it will bring its range of print and finishing equipment, including: the Platinum Technologies X-Line 3020, the HP Latex R530, and the Canon Colorado M5W to The Print Show. Antalis has announced the launch of the Arlon printable wrap range, bringing customers in Ireland a premium portfolio of printable wrap films and matching laminates for vehicle graphics, general signage and demanding
specialist applications. Soyang Europe will showcase three core products from the Platinum Technologies LIYU range on its stand at The Sign Show 2026. Avery Dennison has updated one of the MPI 1103 EA Smart Wrap+, available immediately from William Smith, which retains the 50 micron white cast construction that many installers are already familiar. Soyang Europe has expanded its direct to film (DTF) range with the launch of a paper- based transfer media that offers an environmentally conscious alternative to conventional PET transfer film. Provider of electrical components and services, Principal Industries has acquired US-based LED lighting solutions provider, GENLED Brands. Signs Express Newcastle is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. Premier has expanded its portfolio to offer Re-Board. The range of lightweight paperboard is made up of five products and are suitable for UV, latex and screen printing.
| 6 | September/October 2026
BPIF Printing Outlook depicts negative view for the industry’s Q2
T
he UK printing industry has seen a downturn in Q2 this year according the BPIF’s
latest Printing Outlook survey. The survey found that more than 2/5 (42%) of printers experienced a decrease in their output levels, the negative outcome is the most negative output balance reported since Covid. It also found concerns over the level of sales in the industry have increased to lead a reorder to the list of printers’ top business concerns. Sales levels sits ahead of profit levels, and the belief that competitors are pricing below cost. The survey found that an increased proportion of companies reported factors restricting capacity in Q2, the shortage of suitable skilled employees was the most significant constraints.
In July, labour costs remained the largest cost component with a growing 34% share of total costs, with just under half (49%) of printing companies holding steady margins in Q2 but the pressure remains strongly negative. Kyle Jardine, BPIF economist, said: “Companies have referenced confidence
E
The BPIF’s Printing Outlook survey is in partnership with Canon
being hit by uncertainty, leading to delays in purchasing decisions and investments. Most costs have increased by similar amounts in a short period of time – but not all have been passed on as price increases.
“Despite the future direction of Government policy still being unclear, and the lack of endgame certainty over conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine – the industry is forecasting that Q2 will be the low point for 2026 and that confidence and activity levels will improve in Q3.”
EPIC Media Group opens new Warwick unit
PIC Media Group has opened its new Warwick unit following an open day on July 2 2026, welcoming customers, suppliers and local contacts to the company’s new operational base at Unit 15, Hurlbutt Road. The open day gave visitors the opportunity to meet the EPIC team, tour the new premises and learn more about the company’s work across vehicle graphics, fleet branding, wraps and changeable graphics systems.
EPIC’s new Warwick unit
Nicola Welfare, general manager at EPIC Media Group, said: “Welcoming visitors to our open day was a fantastic moment for the team. “A lot of work has gone into preparing the new unit, so it was brilliant to see the space come to life and then welcome our first vehicle in just a few days later.” The new unit provides EPIC with a Midlands base, allowing them to support customers across the region and beyond and with strong access to key transport routes the site supports future growth and deliver a more responsive customer service. Hadrien Salin, executive chairman at EPIC Media Group, concluded: “This is an important investment in the future of EPIC. The Midlands location is strategically placed, giving us a stronger base from which to support customers across the region and beyond.”
www.signupdate.co.uk
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