Ultraviolet (UV)-curable inks make it easier to print on a wider range of substrates, allow for faster completion times, and are better for the environment compared to many other types of inks. Photo © Awargula | Dreamstime.com
Interior decor
Another trend likely to flourish in 2023 is interior decor. It is emerging because of the quality wide-format printing can now offer, producing creations clients are proud to display in their homes or offices.
Wide-format printing opens up a range of new opportunities and helps property owners create unique designs. For example, it can be used to make bespoke wallpaper, giving homeowners a chance to have decor they are not able to find anywhere else.
PSPs can even print onto fabrics, opening up new options such as custom-printed upholstery and curtains. With so much flexibility in terms of materials, wide-format printing opens up a world of options for home decorating.
Improved sustainability
“Sustainability” has become a buzzword for nearly every trade worldwide, and the printing industry is no exception. It is important for businesses to take note, especially considering approximately 75 per cent of millennials are mindful of sustainability when buying products.2 As such, if a print company does not employ sustainable practices, there is a chance it will lose customers to a competitor who does.
The good news is wide-format printing technology is more sustainable than ever. This is partly because of the newer inks available, which are increasingly more eco-friendly than older alternatives. Other reasons for improved sustainability include less waste and energy use, which reduce demands on the power grid and on natural resources.
Faster completion times
Customers often need their orders completed as quickly as possible, but traditional printing methods tend to be time-consuming and have long lead times. Wide-format printing can now be completed faster than earlier methods. Not only does this mean more satisfied customers, but it also means print companies and sign shops can take on more work. Technological developments have helped speed up the work in two important avenues: design and printing.
Design
With help from a wide range of software and hardware, it is now easier than ever to create unique print designs. Further, today’s PSPs do not have to spend time and money on creating new templates—many of which they will only use once. Instead, the job details can be uploaded digitally, which takes just a few moments.
Printing
The print process itself is also much faster, thanks to advanced machinery that automates many tasks. Not only does automation allow PSPs to complete jobs quicker, but it also improves accuracy and reduces the need for costly wages.
It has become increasingly important for printers and signmakers to offer fast completion times to keep their businesses competitive. After all, clients now have higher expectations, and businesses that do not meet them are likely to lose out to their quicker competitors.
If sign shops and print companies are having difficulties meeting client deadlines, they also have the option to turn to wholesale trade printers—who have implemented next-business-day turnaround for popular items like Coroplast yard signs.
