The move, which became official on 5 June, represents the first time in more than 20 years that 3M has appointed a new UK distributor for this particular sector, although Amari already distributes a number of 3M’s double-sided tapes, adhesives and abrasives. 3M has just two other UK commercial graphic and architectural film distributors.
Amari is now stocking a wide range of 3M’s films, including new varieties of its Scotchcal Graphic Film, Controltac Graphic Film and Envision Wrap Film. It will also be distributing its cast vinyl Scotchcal 100 series, non-PVC Envision range and other architectural films.
Amari director of supplier relations Jamie Manifold said: “Our philosophy and culture as a business is to work with quality manufacturers with branded products preferably with a global presence and 3M fits that absolutely.
“3M has a tremendous track record record of product development and coming up with things that can open doors, applications which we’re always looking for. It’s also filled a gap in our product range, we’ve always done self-adhesive vinyls but didn’t have a range of cast vinyl products, which is where they are excellent.
“It’s taken quite a while to get to this point but it’s been worth the wait.”
Manifold particularly highlighted the “environmentally minded” non-PVC Envision range as being a standout product.
The films will be stocked at Amari’s 14 sites across the UK, along with at its subsidiaries Amari Digital Supplies (ADS) and Graphic Printing Technologies (GPT). It has a total of 28 UK sites including subsidiaries.
“From Amari’s point of view there are two different benefits,” added Manifold.
“Cast vinyl is a longer life product, more conformable, it’s the highest quality you can buy and there are a limited number of manufacturers in the world who can make that product. The other benefit from this is the diversity of applications."
With headquarters in Weybridge, Surrey, Amari also distributes the likes of Mactac, Folex and Dibond films.
3M unveiled a number of new products at Fespa, including a new print wrap film, IJ180mC, along with a new premium Envision wrap film.
