The new Vivalux Backlit substrates are available either as Latex 125 matt 3746 or Latex 200 matt 3747.

Both materials have the same coating but the Latex 200 is claimed to offer better handling properties thanks to using a thicker polyester film.

Sihl Direct UK operations director Ian Turnbull said the advent of latex inks in the wide-format sector has opened up a raft of new opportunities.

He added: "However, existing print media was letting the new inks down, mainly because the latex inks needed to be hardened at temperatures of up to 100 degrees.

"For most media, this temperature results in a finished product that is wavy or crinkled. We have spent a lot of time and effort developing new print media and we are delighted with the new Vivalux Backlit films."

Sihl Direct said images printed using this media carry high colour density and brilliance as well as strong durable and waterproof qualities.

Available immediately, the latest Vivalux latex products are one of the major launches since the company held an open house at its Altrincham UK base earlier this year.

The company, which is the UK presence of the large-format business, also has sites in Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands.

Speaking at the time, Turnbull said the company's objective was to supply Sihl manufactured and branded media, "in a timely and cost effective manner", through both selected partners and directly to the end user.