Soyang Europe introduces new paper-based DTF film
Soyang Europe has introduced an alternative to PET DTF transfer film, designed to offer the same performance as conventional media while being recyclable through standard paper waste streams
Print companies across England have upgraded equipment, software, and other technology through recent match-funded grants provided by the government-backed Made Smarter initiative
Made Smarter, a government-backed initiative for England designed to help SMEs adopt advanced digital technologies, has recently provided funding and opportunities for a variety of print-associated companies across the North West, South East, and Yorkshire.
Through the initiative, SMEs in the print, graphics, and signage sectors have been able to invest in digital technologies designed to boost productivity, create new jobs, and strengthen competitiveness with support from Made Smarter.
Companies that have recently received Made Smarter grants includes Cumbria-based Firpress Printers, which secured a £20,000 Made Smarter grant towards a £40,000 investment in cloud-based management information system, PrintIQ.
The PrintIQ technology brings quoting, production, scheduling, inventory, and customer communications into a single platform. Firpress has credited the software with improved efficiency, increased production capacity, and the creation of three new jobs at the company.
Firpress co-owner, Kerri Black, says: "Made Smarter gave us the confidence to take a step we simply wouldn't have taken on our own.
“The new system will transform the way we operate, reducing administration, improving visibility across the business, and helping us respond more quickly to customers. It's about having the right tools in place to make better decisions, work more efficiently, and grow the business at a pace that's sustainable and right for us."
In Greater Manchester, PP Graphics invested £46,000 in a customer portal and systems integration project supported by a £20,000 Made Smarter grant.
The new software will help to automate artwork approval, streamline customer communications, and improve scheduling, while reportedly creating a new job and upskilling nine existing employees.
PP Graphics general manager, Andrew McIntyre, comments: "The new software is a vital part of our automation journey.
“Artwork is the lifeblood of our business. Getting customer artwork press-ready with minimal back and forth improves scheduling, efficiency, and right-first-time performance. It also gives customers a much smoother experience, allowing them to place orders, upload artwork, and manage campaigns through a single portal."
Identity Printing, also based in Greater Manchester, invested £45,000 in a new Resolute R-JET Pro DTF system supported by another £20,000 Made Smarter grant.
The investment will enable the garment print specialist to expand its product range, improve production efficiency, and create three new jobs while upskilling two existing members of staff.
Business development director at Identity Printing, Leo Stanley, says: "Working with Made Smarter has been a really positive experience. The support has helped us invest in new technology that will make a real difference to the way we operate as a business. It allows us to expand our product range, improve efficiency, and offer our customers something more innovative within garment decoration."
Those wishing to apply for Made Smarter grants must be a small- or medium-sized manufacturing enterprise in England with fewer than 250 employees. Applicants can register online via the Made Smarter platform or their regional delivery body to receive a business assessment and digital roadmap.
After assessment, applicants can pitch a project plan to access up to 50% match-funded grants for capital investment and specialist advice, with a maximum grant amount of £20,000.
More information about the scheme can be found in Print Monthly’s recent special with Kevin Smith, lead technology specialist at Made Smarter North West.
