D-Signs, a new sign making and graphics production company, has enjoyed a steady and very positive start with the help of a Mutoh ValueJet.

After 17 years in the sign industry, Dan East made the move in October 2012 to form D-Signs. The first major decision he made for the company was to chose which printer would best meet his requirements. Mr East said, ‘After comparing the Seiko and Mutoh products it became clear that the Seiko had the edge on speed but the Mutoh had the edge on quality, making the Mutoh the obvious choice for D-Signs. I already knew the ValueJet inside out having worked with one for six years and am really impressed with its performance, quality and versatility.’

With some family investment, which provided security in the early stages of the business, MR East set up a workshop in the small town of Stowmarket, Suffolk. He adapted the building to provide a working area with a Kala Starter laminator and table and a separate office housing his desk, the Mutoh ValueJet 1614 and a Kona cutter.

Starting up a new business on your own is always a daunting prospect, but D- Signs has got off to a good start. ‘I have secured some good business in the first months, mainly through family and existing relationships and through word of mouth. The decision to take on the Mutoh is looking better each day as it can cope with anything I throw at it and it has the capacity to handle a lot more as the business grows. I have done some shop fronts, vehicle wraps, general signage and high quality, fast turnaround digital printing for trade customers. I can offer a fast professional service at a great price because my overheads are relatively low,’ said Mr East. 

The Mutoh ValueJet 1614 1625 mm is a four colour eco-solvent wide format printer that offfers all round capabilities for the sign and display market. It has a top speed of 18 m/hour and the versatility to print on to coated or uncoated media, including soft sign textiles. The company is using the printer with eco-solvent inks so it can be used in a normal office environment with no special ventilation.