Ottimo Digital has installed an EFI VUTEk M3h hybrid UV LED printer supplied by CMYUK. The new machine replaces an existing EFI VUTEk LX3 Pro that had reached the end of its working life after many years in service.
The new 3.2m-wide printer has been brought in to increase speed, versatility and production capacity for the Newport-based company’s exhibition and events work.
“We’ve seen a large increase in work on both rigid and flexible substrates, all requiring quick turnaround times. We wanted to increase our speed, particularly when printing onto Foamex, without compromising on quality,” said Craig Boxley, commercial director at Ottimo Digital.
Ottimo has a long history with EFI technology, having invested in four EFI printers through CMYUK, and selected the VUTEk M3h for its balance of speed, quality and cost, as well as its ability to broaden production capabilities.
The larger vacuum bed has increased the range and volume of substrates the company can process, while multi-layer printing has opened up new applications including digital floor lino and layered acrylic work.
“Nothing is ever a given when investing in new machinery, but considering our successful history with EFI technology, it’s always the first place we look,” said Mr Boxley. “We were extremely impressed by the M3h. It gives us speed, quality, durability and ease of use.”
According to production director Andrew Thomas, the transition from the outgoing LX3 was straightforward, with operators quickly adapting to the new system due to similarities in workflow and machine features.
“The biggest gain for us is speed, which in turn gives us more time to focus on other jobs in a fast-paced, quick-turnaround industry,” he said. “Speed has been the most noticeable improvement, allowing us to handle more work within tighter deadlines and improve overall turnaround times.”
Mr Thomas added that improvements in colour consistency and substrate flexibility were helping the business bring more complex and higher-volume applications in-house.
Ottimo Digital has worked with CMYUK for more than a decade and said the supplier’s understanding of its business and operational requirements helped make the investment process straightforward.
Looking ahead, Mr Boxley said the investment was intended to support future growth and increasing demand for more complex wide-format applications.
“This investment reflects a clear commitment to growth and staying at the forefront of the industry,” he said. “We’re positioning ourselves to handle greater volumes, take on more complex work, and maintain consistently high standards as we scale. Ultimately, it’s about future-proofing the business.”
