PP Graphics innovates new mobile wide-format print service

Wide-format print shop, PP Graphics, has launched a portable wide-format print service through the purchase of a Mimaki UJV100-160 UV LED printer and Mimaki CG-160FX vinyl cutter and plotter from CMYUK.

PP Graphics (formerly known as Psycho Peacock), which is owned by event and exhibition suppliers, Full Circle, made the strategic decision to invest in the print equipment when Full Circle’s key exhibition client requested on-demand access to print on site.

The kit purchase was made with portability in mind, with PP Graphics owning, managing, and operating the Mimaki equipment while deploying it wherever Full Circle's client needed fast and flexible production.

The two-machine Mimaki print and cut configuration effectively works as a touring production hub, having been moved around the UK and Europe to deliver on-site print for Full Circle’s end client.

A growing number of exhibitors have also reportedly discovered the convenience of the mobile print shop’s capabilities on the show floor, with the concept developing from a unique solution for a single client into a profitable service model.

The realities of live events mean that forgotten artwork, last-minute changes, and unexpected empty spaces are commonplace. By operating a fully functional print and cut facility within the hall, PP Graphics can quickly step in to produce replacement panels, extra graphics, and text-based elements on demand.

So far, the Mimaki kit duo has supported several major shows including events in Paris, Amsterdam, Edinburgh, and Aberdeenshire.

According to PP Graphics, the full cost of the equipment as well as 35% profit was recovered within just the first two shows. Andy McIntyre, general manager of PP Graphics, says: “The first show paid for the printer, while the second show was all profit.”

The business approached CMYUK through its senior digital sales consultant, Jason McNulty, who has known McIntyre for many years.

Explaining why CMYUK suggested the Mimaki solutions for the portable print shop concept, McNulty says: “We had a list of printers, but our requirements were specific – we needed a printer that could handle being moved frequently, didn’t struggle with levelling, and was easy to use.

“What also made the Mimaki the standout choice was that it could be powered by a standard household three-pin plug.”

The 1.6m-wide Mimaki UJV100-160 UV LED roll-to-roll device offers instant-dry ink with an extended colour gamut suitable for a wide range of applications suited to both internal and external use.

The Mimaki CG-160FX cutter plotter, which is also 1.6m wide, offers speeds of up to 100cm/s and is designed for fast and accurate contour cutting, stickers, and decals.

Speaking about the performance of the Mimaki press, McIntyre adds: “We’ve had no issues with the printer whatsoever. It’s never missed a beat – it just carries on. It looks after itself.”

An unusual example of the service model involved Greater Manchester Police, who approached PP Graphics with a highly sensitive query which involved printing posters without the print team seeing the content, due to strict security protocols.

In response to the brief, PP Graphics trained a police operative to run the Mimaki device, noting the ease of use of the machine as a key reason why this was possible. The printer was shipped directly to the police team, allowing covert printing in a secure location.

McIntyre explains: “They did it incognito in some kind of basement. I’d love to have known what they were printing.”

PP Graphics is now exploring how its portable print capabilities can be used as a wider service to other organisations and venues.