TCW Solutions has recently installed a Canon VarioPrint iX3200 sheet-fed inkjet press at its Wrotham, Kent site to replace offset litho production, saying that the ‘exceptional’ quality offered by the Canon device will support its goal to increase its market share.
TCW offers a broad range of direct mail and wide-format printing services across its two sites and already has an HP PageWide web-fed inkjet for high volume variable data mailing work. The company says new investment will strengthen its capacity to deliver high-volume personalised mailing projects for the financial and retail sectors. By transferring previously litho-printed runs to inkjet, TCW will be able to benefit from enhanced automation, productivity and flexibility. This will particularly support the production of gaming sleeves for point-of-sale applications.
The Canon press is expected to provide reliable high-speed inkjet printing with quality to rival that of offset, thanks to its 1200dpi native resolution printheads and colour management software, plus the ability to print consistently on a range of coated and uncoated media. The ink and printhead combination is claimed by Canon to achieve 91% reproduction of Pantone spot colours, verified by Fogra.
A further consideration when selecting the iX3200 was the sustainability credentials of the device, which include lower power consumption per page printed and the use of water-based ink with a very high de-inkability rating.
Tom Lipman, director, TCW Solutions, commented, ‘We’re delighted to continue working with Canon. Over the years, we’ve had all types of different toner-based machines but have never known reliability like that of the VarioPrint iX. As one of the fastest print providers in the market, we’re excited for the new device to push us even further to offer our customers bespoke high-quality products with even more competitive turnaround times.’
Stuart Rising, head of commercial print at Canon UK & Ireland, added, ‘We’re excited for our relationship with TCW solutions to develop. The installation of the VarioPrint iX will enable the business to drive growth as it diversifies its offering for a variety of markets, while ensuring quality and efficiency remain at the core of what they do.’
