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NEWS: The latest news and product news from the Channel – pages 6-10 2023 PREVIEW:: Crystal balls at the ready – page 15 INTERVIEW:: Richard Wells embracing 30 years of change – page 26 SCANNING GATEWAYS: Hybrid working is driving the growth of digitising documents – page 46 BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE:: How FX rates affect toner pricing – page 50
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COMMENT
Scanning for opportunities Scanners continue to be a vital part of equipment for many employees – be they based at home or in the office – and the ongoing digitalisation of businesses, and the need to keep them secure, means there are plenty of opportunities for resellers.
While there may be back-to-the-office directives coming from some businesses now as the COVID pandemic fades in people’s memories, there are still plenty of people who are making a success of hybrid working. But with hybrid working comes more of an imperative to digitalise a business’ operations so that employees and managers can work with the same efficiency wherever they are. This means scanners are in demand to digitalise documents. For those businesses – mostly SMBs these days – at the beginning of their digitalisation journey, scanners often form an important part of that first step in building automated workflows. This, along with helping SMBs to overcome the perceived barriers to digitalisation, means there are plenty of opportunities for resellers to make sales but also deepen relationships with customers. Read more on p34. But one crucial aspect that shouldn’t be overlooked concerning scanners is security. The increased use of networked scanners in the office and at home can increase a business' vulnerability to cyberattacks. A cyberattack, particularly for a small business, can be devastating in terms of downtime, lost productivity and damage to its reputation. Resellers have a crucial role in ensuring that
customers have the right security for their needs. Read more on p38. Elsewhere in the issue, in the wake of legislation such as Natasha’s Law, there is more pressure on hospitality providers and retails to label their products adequately, especially regarding the presence of allergens. To do this, some retail and hospitality businesses are turning to colour labelling to do this. With a range of products on the market, there are plenty of opportunities for resellers to make the most of this opportunity. Read more on p48. These stories demonstrate that for resellers in the print channel, there are a wealth of opportunities out there, and demand for scanners and colour label printers is set to grow in the coming years, so those opportunities are only going to increase. As always, I hope you enjoy the issue. Print in the Channel is for everyone involved in this sector, so if there is any topic you would like to see covered in a future issue, or you would like to get involved in editorial in any way – opinion pieces, press releases etc – please drop me a line at dan@newsinthechannel.com
Dan Parton
See the 2025 Categories
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CONTENTS
News You should know p8 Product Launches Fujifilm Apeos Monochrome p14 Canon imagePROGRAF p18 Sharp A4 colour MFPs p21 Epson SureColor G6070 p33 Fujifilm Making an impression p23 DocuWorld 2025 The future of document management p29 Digital Transformation Transform to survive p34 Scanner Security Focusing on security p38 EKM Data handling p45 Eagle Eye BI Photo printers p46 Colour Labelling Meeting legislation p48 People p50 Stockies 2025 Award Categories p53
DocuWorld 2025 – p29
Digital Transformation – p34
Digital transformation is a journey that many SMBs are embarking on, and resellers have a key role to play in helping customers to achieve the benefits they want – and scanners are also an important factor for many.
This year’s DocuWorld 2025 conference was held recently and showcased the company’s plans, with innovation in AI, e-invoicing and workflow automation to the fore – and partners are a full part of this future.
Colour Label Printers – p48
In the wake of legislation such as Natasha’s Law, there is more pressure on hospitality providers and retails to label their products adequately and some are turning to colour labelling to do this.
Product Launches Fujifilm Apeos Monochrome – p14 Fujifilm as announced it is expanding its Apeos range with the addition of three new monochrome A4 and A3 devices, giving the company a comprehensive range of printing solutions.
Canon has launched its imagePROGRAF TC-21 and TC-21M large format desktop printers, which have improved functionality and sustainability over previous models and are aimed at designers in a range of sectors.
Canon imagePROGRAF – p18
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CONTENTS
Scanner Security – p38
Document scanners can be overlooked when it comes to network security, but that can leave a business vulnerable to a cyberattack, especially when used in hybrid settings, so resellers need to emphasise the need for security to customers.
Publishing Director Justin Penn 07816 573 186 justin@ printinthechannel.com Editorial Dan Parton 07941 979 845 dan@ printinthechannel.com Advertising Sales Martin Jenner-Hall 07824 552 116 martin@ printinthechannel.com Liz Newbury 07756 069297 liz@printinthechannel.com Market Analyst Wickus Bester wickus.bester@ stockinthechannel.com Written permission from the publisher is required before any part of Print in the Channel can be reproduced. © 2025 In the Channel Media Ltd.
The STOCKIES 2025 Award Categories and sponsorship packages have been announced.
Fujifilm – p23
Fujifilm is celebrating a year since it launched its print devices in the UK and, while the past 12 months have been successful, it is just the beginning for the company as it widens it product range and adds new partners to help get the devices out to customers.
Sharp A4 Colour MFPs – p21
Sharp has introduced new A4 colour MFPs and printers that are designed to be environmentally conscious, secure and compact to meet the changing needs of today’s work environment.
Published by: In the Channel Media Ltd Company registration number: 14363401 Registered office address 14-18 Heddon Street, Mayfair, London, United Kingdom, W1B 4DA In conjunction with:
Epson has launched its first DTFilm printer, the SureColor G6070, which is designed to help users print oversized graphics and provide quality prints for garment decorators using a range of materials.
Epson SureColor G6070 – p33
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NEWS
Katun launches Katalyst Partner Portal
Katun Corporation has launched its Katalyst Partner Portal. The portal is a comprehensive, centralised platform that will enhance partner collaboration, simplify service management, and provide access to sales and marketing resources for Arivia MFPs. The platform features customised content for partners in the United States, Mexico, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Spain, with integrated support for the local language and programs specific to each market. Key features include: l Sales and marketing resources: Access to product imagery, sales collaterals, promotional materials and programs such as Print It, Plant It , that help drive growth and market differentiation l Service ticket management: Partners can engage Katun Technical Support to create and manage service tickets efficiently, ensuring swift resolutions and improved customer support l Technical resource access: Instant
access to technical service manuals, reference guides, firmware updates, product drivers and other essential
technical documentation l Arivia product warranty
management: Partners can register and manage Arivia product warranties, as well as access The Katun Commitment customer satisfaction program l News and updates: Real-time updates on the latest product news, marketing initiatives and industry developments. “We are thrilled to launch the Katalyst Partner Portal to help support our partners globally,” said Chenyi Chiu, chief strategy officer at Katun. “This portal reflects our ongoing commitment to empowering our partners, providing them with the resources they need to succeed, and making their experience with Katun as seamless and efficient as possible.” The Katalyst Partner Portal is now available to all Arivia authorised partners and can be accessed by contacting a Katun regional sales manager.
Chenyi Chiu chief strategy officer
www.katun.com/eu
Printer management ecosystem for supply chain and retail launched
SOTI has introduced a printer management ecosystem for businesses operating in supply chain and retail, to maintain efficient operations, security and prevent downtime. The ecosystem includes TSC Auto ID range of thermal printing solutions, BarTender by Seagull’s label management and printer software, and SOTI Connect for total printer lifecycle management. According to SOTI, 46% of transport and logistics (T&L) employees in the UK use mobile printers daily and 98% encounter technical issues, often. In fact, T&L workers each lose an average of 11
hours of productive time per month, due to problems with devices, resulting in unnecessary delivery delays, employee stress and reduced customer satisfaction. The SOTI, TSC Auto ID and BarTender by Seagull ecosystem solves these challenges by bringing together intelligent remote management, robust hardware
soti.net
solutions and compliance-ready labeling software. Through this, retail brands and their supply chains gain precise labeling, barcode scanning and RFID tracking, while ensuring devices are properly managed and
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NEWS
secured, with any issues spotted quickly and resolved remotely, or prevented from occurring entirely. “By integrating SOTI Connect and BarTender, TSC Auto ID delivers a seamless, end-to-end printer management solution, already trusted by major retailers like Walmart for in-store labeling and tracking,” said Bob Vines, country manager UK, Nordics and Ireland at TSC Auto ID. “Our advanced thermal printing solutions are transforming retail and supply chain operations. From optimising logistics and barcode validation to streamlining markdowns and leveraging RFID for faster, more accurate returns processing, our technology helps businesses enhance efficiency, ensure compliance and minimise downtime. With the right tools in place, retailers can stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.” Adam Holden-Milner, regional sales manager at BarTender by Seagull added: “Combined with SOTI Connect, we ensure
real-time updates reliably reach all TSC Auto ID printers in the field, whether in warehouses or delivery vehicles. This seamless integration not only enhances efficiency gains but also supports our joint sustainability goals by optimising processes and reducing misprints.” Shash Anand, senior vice president at SOTI, added: “Consumers increasingly demand quick and seamless experiences, whether shopping online or in-store as identified in our most recent retail report. Yet, many retailers still struggle to secure the mobile technologies which are essential to making sure our favourite products are delivered on time and stay on the shelves. This is why taking the next step with TSC Auto ID and BarTender is so important to us, as we can now offer a robust printer management solution which helps brands meet customer expectations, improve productivity and retain the loyalty they’ve worked hard to build.”
Bob Vines country manager, UK, Ireland & Nordics
emea.tscprinters.com
bartendersoftware.com
Brother UK launches labelling self-assessment tool
Brother UK has launched a new labelling self-assessment tool designed to help warehouse and logistics customers identify opportunities to streamline processes and boost efficiency. The tool features 11 questions and takes just five minutes to complete. Once submitted, businesses instantly receive a comprehensive report outlining their strengths, areas for improvement and practical advice on enhancing labelling processes. Customers will fall into one of four categories based on their responses: Labelling Expert, Almost Optimised, Exploring Efficiency or Just Getting Started. These categories help determine the most relevant next steps for improving labelling workflows and prioritising process optimisation in the warehouse. For customers that fall into the ‘Just Getting Started’ category, or are unsure
of where to begin, Brother recommends conducting a labelling process audit. This helps map out current workflows, access equipment setup, identify pain points and highlight clear areas for improvement. Those in the ‘Almost Optimised’ and ‘Exploring Efficiency’ categories may already have a solid foundation but still face challenges such as hardware downtime or mislabelling errors. In these cases, Brother recommends evaluating the current equipment setup to ensure its fit for purpose. This includes assessing
CONTINUED
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NEWS
CONTINUED
whether there are enough print stations, mobile printing solutions or the right hardware to meet warehouse demands. Integrating solutions like on-body mobile printers, forklift-mounted devices or mobile workstations enables at-location label printing, reducing disruption and minimising error. For businesses already operating at a high level of optimisation, Brother suggests levelling up by prioritising data monitoring, staying up to date with the latest industry developments, improving responses to warehouse downtime and drawing on expert advice to identify best-in-class labelling solutions tailored to specific needs. To support this, Brother offers a range of advanced labelling technologies designed
to enhance operational efficiency. “Labelling inconsistencies can cause serious issues for warehouse and logistics operations, from delivery mix-ups to lost time correcting errors,” said Simon Brennan, senior business manager (SPS) at Brother UK. “Research shows businesses lose up to £6,000 and 347 working hours per operator each year due to inefficient labelling, with every disruption costing up to 23 minutes in lost focus. “Our new self-assessment tool helps businesses think about where they might be losing valuable time and money, and what steps they can take to improve. At Brother we live for the label and our experts are ready to support customers in finding labelling solutions that boost both efficiency and reliability.”
Simon Brennan senior business manager – Specialist Printing Solutions
brother.co.uk
Zebra Technologies launches new public sector specialisation programme
interoperable communication to empower first responders when every second counts.” Zebra’s channel team has designed the programme to help its partners better serve customers and solve more of their challenges with the right mix of partner support, including hardware and software solutions that meet the asset tracking, mobile digitisation, and critical communication needs of customers. Those solutions include rugged, purpose- built mobile technology that empowers law enforcement, emergency responders, and government agencies with real-time data, secure, mission-critical communication and seamless interoperability. Reducing waste, preventing loss, and demonstrating transparent resource management are also benefits of Zebra’s public safety offering for customers, helping ensure taxpayer funds are used responsibly while enhancing emergency response capabilities. The programme is open to all eligible Zebra PartnerConnect members working within public safety, defence and government in EMEA.
Zebra Technologies Corporation has renewed its commitment to equip emergency services first responders with the solutions they need to protect and serve the public, by launching a new public sector specialisation programme in EMEA. The new specialisation will support specialised channel partners focused on critical communications, asset tracking, and mobile digitalisation projects in the public sector, particularly public safety, central government and defence. “The specialisation reinforces our commitment to public sector organisations and services and will catalyse our specialist public sector channel partners to be successful,” said Lars Schmermbeck, vice president of channel, EMEA, Zebra Technologies. “The future of public safety relies on technology-driven efficiency, proactive decision-making, and secure,
zebra.com
10
NEWS
Katun announces Arivia MFP compatibility with MyQ
Katun Corporation has announced that its Arivia line of MFPs is now fully compatible with MyQ, a print management solution. This compatibility enables businesses to optimise their printing workflows, increase efficiency and reduce operational costs while enhancing security. “We’re excited to partner with MyQ to offer Katun partners and their clients an even more comprehensive print management experience,” said Tony Ko, Katun vice president of Hardware & Business Solutions. “With the confirmed compatibility of Arivia MFPs and the MyQ ecosystem, businesses can effortlessly manage their entire print
environment through a single, intuitive interface. This compatibility empowers businesses to boost efficiency, cut costs, and gain greater control over their print operations, all while ensuring the highest security standards.” Viktor Nestrasil, MyQ vice president for the Americas, added: “We are thrilled to introduce the MyQ terminal for Katun’s Arivia MFPs. This compatibility has immense potential and will support effective print management for dealer partners and their customers, many of whom have been eagerly awaiting this release. We look forward to the positive impact that this compatibility will have for Arivia and MyQ users.”
Tony Ko vice president of hardware and business solutions
www.katun.com/eu/
Ricoh awarded EcoVadis Platinum rating for sustainability performance
Ricoh has been awarded the highest Platinum rating from business sustainability ratings provider EcoVadis. Placing Ricoh among the top 1% of companies assessed, this is Ricoh’s first Platinum rating, following 10 consecutive years of Gold ratings from 2014 to 2024. The EcoVadis assessment evaluates more than 150,000 companies worldwide across 21 sustainability criteria in four core themes: environment, labour and human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement. Many global companies rely on EcoVadis insights when selecting suppliers. This year, Ricoh achieved an overall score of 82 out of 100 – an increase of five points from last year – with particularly strong recognition in the environment category, along with notable improvements in the labour and human rights and ethics categories. This achievement reaffirms Ricoh’s
commitment to responsibility and accountability, positioning the company as a leader in its sector. “We are immensely proud of this milestone, which underscores our long-standing commitment to sustainability,” said Mikako Suzuki, corporate officer in charge of ESG and Risk Management at Ricoh Company, Ltd. “The 2025 Platinum rating is a testament to Ricoh’s active promotion of ESG risk management in our supply chain, including improvements in labour conditions and human rights. “It also reflects our ongoing efforts to deepen our environmental policies and targets, expand information disclosure, and advance environmental management. Through our business, Ricoh will continue contributing to the realisation of a sustainable society by working to solve social issues throughout the value chain.”
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ZEBRA
With Zebra Essentials there’s no compromise Quality, affordable solutions for your customers
Zebra Essentials is a range of cost effective and reliable solutions that simply work, increasing productivity, reducing delays, and minimising downtime. Your customers can count on the Essentials range to perform as promised, no matter the work environment or challenge. Zebra Essentials products also come with pre-installed software for easy setup management and tasks.
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Save time and workarounds with the right labelling solution
Contact your Zebra representative for further information. www.zebra.com/products
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Proprietary and Confidential. ZEBRA and the stylized Zebra head are trademarks of Zebra Technologies Corp., registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. All other trademarks are the property of their res
PRODUCT LAUNCH
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spective owners. ©2023 Zebra Technologies Corp. and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.
PRODUCT LAUNCH FUJIFILM APEOS MONOCHROME PRINTERS
Broadening horizons Fujifilm has expanded its Apeos range with the addition of three new monochrome A4 and A3 devices, giving the company a comprehensive range of printing solutions for workplaces of all sizes.
It is now a year since Fujifilm announced its entry into several European markets, including the UK, with the launch of its Apeos multifunction printer range. Since then, it has been a busy year for Fujifilm as it has sought to expand the number of partners it has in the UK and ensure the brand and printers gain a foothold in the mature European markets. That year has brought success, and now Fujifilm is building on this with the launch of three new monochrome A4 and A3 devices. With the launch of these, Fujifilm now offers a comprehensive range of printing solutions, from entry-level office printers to high-end production devices. These additions provide even more options for for businesses looking for office printing solutions that optimise quality, security, efficiency and sustainability. These new printers combine high speed with high security and high resolution. Designed for maximum ease-of-use inside and outside of the office, the new models in these series feature enhanced input and output expandability, allowing users to simply and easily share information by linking with mobile devices or to the cloud. The devices also feature a range of robust security features and are designed to support sustainable operations as much as possible. With an intuitive, user-friendly interface, the flexibility to
a folder unit and booklet maker – these new devices are designed for the varied and unpredictable demands of the modern workplace.
Designed for maximum ease- of-use inside and outside of the office, the new models in these series feature enhanced input and output expandability...
Apeos 5570 series
Apeos 5570 series This series features two A3 models: Apeos 5570 and 4570, which can print up to 55 and 45 A4 monochrome pages per minute respectively. Both also scan in colour at 80 A4 pages per minute simplex, and at 160 pages per minute duplex, in a single pass. The models in the series can accommodate paper weights from 52– 300gsm and sizes from SRA3 down to postcard size (100x148mm), with a banner print option of 320x1,200mm. The series also features a 10.1-inch colour touch panel for easy operability. Apeos 3560 series Featuring three A3 models, the Apeos 3560, 3060 and 2560 can print at up to 35, 30 and 25 A4 monochrome pages per minute respectively. In addition, the models in this series can colour scan at 80 pages per minute, either single-sided
Apeos 5570
accommodate a range of paper weights and sizes and featuring various finishing options – such as
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PRODUCT LAUNCH FUJIFILM APEOS MONOCHROME PRINTERS
Apeos 3560 series
Proven solutions “These new monochrome devices are built to the same design specifications as our very successful range of colour A3 MFP models,” said Matthew Wrighton, head of device technology, Fujifilm Europe. “With this expansion of the Apeos range – Fujifilm now offers both colour and monochrome solutions, from entry-level office printers, to high-end devices suitable for a production print environment, meaning that whatever a business’s size and production needs, Fujifilm has a proven solution. “This range expansion, in combination with the success of the colour devices already available, together underline Fujifilm’s commitment to providing a full range of technology solutions for the modern workplace.” All three of these new series are available now in the UK, Italy, France and Spain – with announcements on availability in other countries to be announced later.
or single pass duplex. They accommodate paper weights of 60–256gsm and sizes from A3 to A5 and feature a 7-inch colour touch panel for optimal ease-of-use. Apeos 5330 series The Apeos 5330 and 4830 models can print up to 53 and 48 A4 monochrome pages per minute respectively. The printers also scan one-sided in colour at 53 and 48 A4 pages per minute. When it comes to single pass duplex scanning, the devices can achieve speeds of 105 and 96 A4 pages per minute respectively. Paper weights from 60–220gsm and paper sizes from A4 to A6 can be accommodated. The compact design of this A4 multifunction device also means that it fits easily into a counter service area, so that documents can be copied or scanned without leaving the counter and making customers wait. In 2025 this series was recognised with an iF Design award for excellence in product design.
Matthew Wrighton head of device technology
www.fujifilm.com/uk/eu
“
With this expansion of the Apeos range – Fujifilm now offers both colour and monochrome solutions, from entry-level office printers, to high- end devices suitable for a production print environment...
Apeos 5330 series
”
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The best choice for secure, efficient workspaces
In a fast-evolving business world, organizations need more than just devices - they need intelligent, secure, and reliable solutions that adapt to modern workstyles. Canon has once again proven its leadership in this space, with uniFLOW Online winning the BLI Pick Award from Keypoint Intelligence for Outstanding Cloud Output Management Solution for the seventh consecutive year, and the imageRUNNER ADVANCE DX series named A3 Line of the Year 2024 by Print IT Awards. Perfect synergy between hardware and software The imageRUNNER ADVANCE DX series offers state-of-the-art performance with robust 360° security to safeguard each step of your digital transformation with complete protection for documents, devices and your network.
Paired with uniFLOW Online, businesses can unlock cloud-based document workflows that enhance productivity and reduce costs. Features like secure print release, user roaming across multiple locations, multi-cloud scanning, and real- time cost tracking enable organizations to manage information effortlessly while maintaining strict security and compliance. Award-winning combination This combination isn’t just about recognition; it’s about delivering real, measurable improvements to the workplace - helping businesses become more agile, more secure, and more efficient.
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PRODUCT LAUNCH CANON imagePROGRAF TC-21 AND TC-21M
Taking it large Canon has launched its imagePROGRAF TC-21 and TC-21M large format desktop printers, which have improved functionality and sustainability over previous models and are aimed at designers in a range of sectors.
them suitable for applications such as architectural and design drawings, restaurant menus, retail posters and educational materials. Using the standard Auto Sheet Feeder (ASF), both can also print a variety of other applications, such as flyers on A5/A6 papers, labels, postcards and envelopes. The TC-21M model includes an A4 flatbed scanner, allowing users to easily create large format copies without a computer – ideal for promotional materials, educational content, and even customised wrapping paper. Delivering high-quality output from a space-saving body, both models are suitable for various environments, from home offices to retail establishments and educational institutions.
Demand for large format printers continues to grow, as businesses look to produce posters, designs and advertising materials for a range of sectors in-house, rather than farming it out to agencies. To this end, Canon has added to its portfolio of large format solutions, with the launch of two four-colour (CMYK) large format desktop printers: the TC-21 and the TC-21M, the latter having an integrated A4 scanner.
Targeted at customers in
Space-saving design with improved usability
As the imagePROGRAF TC-21 and TC- 21M have been designed to allow users to perform all printing operations from the front of the unit, including paper loading, ink filling and print collection, the printers are very space-efficient. The new tiltable operation panel offers greater flexibility in the location of the printers and enhanced usability, as the angle of the panel can be easily adjusted to the user's view, making the printer convenient to operate whether placed on a desk or, for example, a low shelf. Both models support printing from roll paper up to A1+ wide and feature a standard ASF compatible with various paper sizes and types, including sheets from A3 to A6, postcards, envelopes
the architecture, engineering and construction, design, hospitality, retail and education sectors, the new printers build on the success of the TC-20 and TC-20M models...
Targeted at customers in the architecture, engineering and
construction, design, hospitality, retail and education sectors, the new printers build on the success of the TC-20 and TC- 20M models that were launched in 2023. These printers have new features such as expanded media handling capabilities, a convenient tiltable operation panel, minimal margin printing and an enhanced eco-friendly design. While compact in size, the new models support printing up to A1+, making
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PRODUCT LAUNCH CANON imagePROGRAF TC-21 AND TC-21M
PosterArtist poster design software, already used by thousands of imagePROGRAF users every month to create posters, makes it easy to create professional-looking posters and flyers that meet diverse business needs. Industry-leading environmental credentials Sustainability has been a priority in the design of the new printers. For instance, for the first time in the Canon imagePROGRAF series, recycled steel has been used in the body of the TC-21 and TC-21M, along with recycled resin for about 40% of the body resin, a significant improvement on previous models. Recyclable cardboard instead of polystyrene foam is used for packaging the products, also reducing their environmental impact. Both models have been registered as ‘EPEAT’ Gold products under the international eco-label established by the Global Electronics Council, reflecting Canon's commitment to sustainable design. “Further enhancing Canon’s already strong portfolio of large format solutions, the imagePROGRAF TC-21 and TC-21M address the growing need for on-site, large-format printing capabilities for CAD printing and in retail, hospitality, educational, and design environments,” said Duncan Smith, country director, production at Canon UK & Ireland. “By combining enhanced usability features with our commitment to sustainability, these compact, desktop printers deliver professional results while reducing the environmental impact compared with their predecessors. The TC-21 and TC-21M provide a cost- effective alternative to outsourced printing services, allowing organisations to produce high-quality materials on demand with minimal space requirements.” The imagePROGRAF TC-21 and TC-21M will be available from May.
and labels. This flexibility allows users to print the same content in different sizes, such as A1 scale drawings for submission alongside A4 versions for review, or large restaurant menu posters with matching table-sized flyers. Advanced scanning and copying The TC-21M integrates an A4 flatbed scanner that enables users to easily make enlarged copies up to A1+ size. Its functions include ‘enlarge & split copy’, which allows the creation of up to A0 sized posters from A4 originals by printing on multiple sheets, which can then be joined together to form the larger finished result. There is also ‘repeat copy’, which duplicates content multiple times on a roll or single sheet – previously only available on a roll on the TC-20M – for labels, for example. Meanwhile, ‘Layout Copy’ allows multiple scanned images to be laid out for printing on a roll of paper.
Duncan Smith country director, production, UK&I
canon.co.uk
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By combining enhanced usability features with our commitment to sustainability, these compact, desktop printers deliver professional results while reducing the environmental impact compared with their predecessors.
Enhanced design impact To enhance design, the TC-21 and TC- 21M have a ‘minimal margin printing’ function that allows printing on roll paper without any top or bottom margin and with only very small (about 0.5mm) left and right margins, which maximises the printable image size. Adopting an image processing method like higher-end imagePROGRAF models, both models produce dense and vivid colours even on plain paper. High-capacity ink tanks enable efficient printing in the desktop printer range, while Canon's free web-based
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printinthechannel.co.uk
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AD
• TM-240: 24-inch; TM-340: 36-inch • 5 colour LUCIA TD Pigment Ink (Black, Matte Black, Cyan, New Magenta, Yellow) • Sales ink: 55ml; Bundle ink: 80ml (MBK) / 55ml (BK,C,M,Y) • Maximum print resolution: 2400x1200 dpi • 4.3” operational panel (with useful information like remaining ink level) • Auto detection of media type and remaining media amount • Faster processing time and a quick return from sleep mode Reimagine printing performance with the sustainable 24” and 36” imagePROGRAF large format printers, offering more intuitive functionality, less operating noise and brilliant image quality for AEC offices, retail and education. PERFORMANCE REIMAGINED... imagePROGRAF TM-240/340
Professional image quality • New magenta ink to achieve a more brilliant red • CAD drawings with crisp lines, eye-catching posters with vivid colours • Highly weather-resistant Reliable productivity • Faster processing time and quick return from sleep mode • Quick processing page-to-page time • Free size borderless printing
Intuitive functionality • 4.3” touchscreen panel
• Key information displayed (balance of ink and media, media type, etc.) to reduce errors • Auto detection of media type and amount • Full front access with flat-top cover to set roll paper easily • Less operating noise - 39dB(A)
• Free size borderless printing • 39 dB(A) – less operating noise • EPEAT Gold rating*
Improved sustainability • EPEAT Gold rated* • EPS free packaging
Fully compatible supporting software • Direct Print Plus • PosterArtist Web https:// posterartist. canon/
* - EPEAT Gold registered in the U.S.
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PRODUCT LAUNCH SHARP BP-C131WD & BP-C131PW
Adapting to change Sharp has introduced new A4 colour MFPs and printers that are designed to be environmentally conscious, secure and compact to meet the changing needs of today’s work environment.
Whether employees are working in the office or at home – or a combination thereof – their demands of their printer are evolving. They want it to be efficient and secure but also compact as space is often at a premium – whether that be because an office has downsized or working in the confines of a home office. And, increasingly, they want their printer to fit in with the company’s sustainability goals too as concern about climate change increases. But printer manufacturers are alive to these changing demands and are producing new printer lines that align with the demands of their customers. The latest to do this is Sharp, which has launched a new line of environmentally conscious smart office products, the BP- C131WD A4 Colour MFP and the BP-C131PW A4 Colour printer. Designed to meet the evolving needs of modern workplaces,
Designed to meet the evolving needs of modern workplaces, both products are not only compact and built with robust security but also offer improved environmental credentials.
both products are not only compact and built with robust security but also offer improved environmental credentials. Reduced environmental impact With sustainability a high priority for many businesses large and small today, printers need to do their bit to contribute towards sustainability goals. To this end, the BP-C131WD and the BP-C131PW models are both built with up to 50% recycled plastic, further supporting Sharp's commitment to sustainability.
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PRODUCT LAUNCH SHARP BP-C131WD & BP-C131PW
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Award-winning design Many customers also value ease-of-use when choosing a printer, and Sharp has catered to this demand. The BP-C131WD and BP-C131PW are equipped with a 4-inch colour touchscreen and offer easy, user-friendly operation, consistent with Sharp’s other devices, ensuring a seamless experience across the product range. The BP-C131WD and BP-C131PW are also already award winners. They were awarded the 2024 Good Design Award for their exceptional design and sustainability efforts. The award recognises the A4 colour MFP/printer series as the world’s smallest footprint in its class, noting its compact, integrated design and environmentally conscious materials. “We recognise the changing needs of organisations, including an increasing focus on sustainability,” says Ben Lake, senior product manager for MFP and Printer Products at Sharp Europe. “Our new A4 devices are compact, secure and environmentally responsible, meeting the needs of modern workplaces. “By incorporating recycled materials, reducing energy consumption and delivering powerful functionality in a small footprint, we’re enabling organisations to meet their environmental goals without compromising on workplace productivity.” The BP-C131WD and BP-C131PW are available now.
The products’ packaging is made of fully recyclable corrugated cardboard, eliminating the need for polystyrene. Both models feature a compact design that uses fewer parts. Additionally, advanced fusing technology ensures the devices offer the best power consumption in their class, helping businesses reduce their overall environmental footprint.
Compact design for optimised workspaces
Ben Lake senior product manager for MFP
With a compact footprint of just 410mm x 410mm, the BP-C131WD and BP-C131PW are among the smallest devices in their class. These space-saving machines are ideal for any office or home office environment, as they can fit into the smallest of spaces while delivering powerful performance. Robust security When printers are aimed at the office or home environment then security must be paramount with the increasing numbers of threats to businesses from cyber criminals. With this in mind, Sharp’s new print devices are equipped with a robust set of security features, ensuring business- critical documents and data are always protected. The comprehensive range of security features includes data encryption and erasure, TLS 1.3 support, user authentication and remote firmware updates, ensuring peace of mind for organisations handling sensitive information.
sharp.co.uk
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We recognise the changing needs of organisations, including an increasing focus on sustainability.
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FUJIFILM
Making an impression Fujifilm is celebrating a year since it launched its print devices in the UK and, while the past 12 months have been successful, it is just the beginning for the company as it widens it product range and adds new partners to help get the devices out to customers.
Matthew Wrighton head of device technology and partner development
It has now been a year since Fujifilm announced its entry into the UK and various other European printer markets with the launch of its Apeos range. For a new brand – to these shores at least – to join such a mature market created a lot of interest in the sector, with many looking on keenly to see how the newcomer fared. But it has been a successful year for Fujifilm, one that has seen promising sales, backed up by more product launches and an active approach to onboarding reseller partners to help get the message out to customers. For instance, Fujifilm recently launched three new mono printers – you can read more about those on p14 – to further strengthen the company’s product portfolio. “We’ve got a very strong portfolio of devices now,” says Matthew Wrighton,
Fujifilm’s head of device technology and partner development in Europe. “Our range goes across production and office, making it a strong proposition that is resonating very well with partners and customers.” Partner channel is key But while Fujifilm has a strong product portfolio, it has also been developing the partner network it needs to get them to the customers in the past year. “For Fujifilm, the partner channel has been a key route to market,” says Matthew. “It’s been frenetic growth in the past year.” This growth has involved the onboarding of reseller partners around the country. “We’ve got a good number of partners on board now,” he adds. “Some have come from other vendors,
www.fujifilm.com/uk/
For Fujifilm, the partner channel has been a key route to market... ...It's been frenetic growth in the past year.” “ ”
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FUJIFILM
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others are expanding their portfolio to include Fujifilm.” Matthew adds that while Fujifilm are looking to onboard more partners, the company is looking for those that fit certain criteria. “We always look at coverage,” he explains. “Which segments of the market do they have strength in? Which geographic areas do they cover? Of course, we also want to make sure that they have got the right competence from a selling and a service basis. We’re conscious of making sure that when we bring partners on board, we give them the strategic ability to go at a market that they’re strong in.” But bringing a partner on board is a necessarily quite lengthy process. “It is a journey that we go on with them,” says Matthew. “The educational process to embed Fujifilm in their business, including such things as selling methodology, can take some months, but we get to a point where they’re excited to come on board with Fujifilm and we’re excited to have them as a partner. “It takes time, and while we might want it to be a quicker process, we also want to ensure we are meeting the partner’s needs and expectations too. It is a balance.” Matthew adds that the partner acquisition process is going well and is where it needs to be for Fujifilm to continue to grow in the coming months and years. Getting partners on board has been crucial to help raise awareness of Fujifilm the brand and what the range of printers can offer to customers. “It’s making sure that customers understand what Fujifilm’s values are as a company, by helping our partners to make sure that that message is getting out there.” This has also been achieved with things like Fujifilm’s ‘Discover the Difference’ campaign, which has included videos and marketing materials, as well as having a large presence at industry events such as drupa last year. “drupa was a big moment
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The educational process to embed Fujifilm in their business, including such things as selling methodology, can take some months, but we get to a point where they're excited to come on board with Fujifilm and we're excited to have them as a partner.
from a production print perspective, it made a lot of impact for us,” says Matthew.
Innovation at heart Getting brand awareness is important. Fujifilm is established in other parts of the world – especially the Asia-Pacific region – but not so much in the UK. However, for Fujifilm to really make an impact in the UK and European markets, the printers must be of high quality and show innovation. “At the heart of Fujifilm has always been innovation,” says Matthew. “And this continues with the devices we have launched.” He points to recent product launches, such as the Revoria EC2100S and SC285S presses, which have a speciality toner station in addition to the CMYK toners, which means they can print five colours in one pass. “We are really pushing the boundaries of what we can do,” says Matthew. “You see that in everything Fujifilm does, and I think that is creating a lot of excitement in the market.” This is translating into sales too. “We are starting to see a lot more traction in the office space because of the way the portfolio has evolved in recent months,” says Matthew. Breadth of range As mentioned, the range was added to recently with the launch of three
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