The Wigan-based business has upgraded from an older Mimaki JFX 200 flatbed to a JFX 200-2513 EX model and has replaced a Summa F Series cutter with an Esko Kongsberg X-44 digital cutting table.

The new kit, which was supplied by CMYUK and installed in December, has joined an existing Mimaki UCJV300-160 UV roll-to-roll printer at the company, which has recently relocated to a new 700sqm site after experiencing growth in the first lockdown.

The business was inundated with demand for Covid safety screens and signage, winning contracts with the NHS as well as supplying local businesses. This demand pushed it to its limits in terms of machine capacity and physical space.

“We had steadily been growing out of the unit we were in, but this took us over the edge,” says Jamie Collins, part of the DM management team.

“We needed somewhere large enough for customer vehicles as well as increased space for manufacturing and finishing.”

Andy Hudson, also on the management team, added: “We took the decision to upgrade our Mimaki JFX 200 to the JFX 200 EX. We were very happy with the capabilities of the flatbed, but the upgraded version has given us extra speed that increases our production capacity.

He said the purchase of the Kongsberg X-44 was an obvious choice. “Esko has an excellent reputation. Its tables are very well designed, and easy to use.”

The Kongsberg X-44 will allow the company to enhance its in-house manufacturing, enabling it to expand its product range further to produce everything from sign trays to bespoke packaging.

DM Signs mainly produces large-format signage including pitch side advertising and for executive offices, hospitality areas and exhibition spaces. It serves sports clients and the healthcare, education, automotive, retail and hospitality sectors.