The creative design and print firm first encountered the Kudu’s capabilities on SwissQprint’s stand at The Print Show at the NEC in September. This was followed up with a hands-on demonstration at the manufacturer’s UK headquarters in Bracknell, where the team saw the machine in action.
Impressed by its performance, KGK Genix managing director Graham Pitts and his team decided to invest that day. The machine was then installed on 2 December, representing the company’s first purchase with SwissQprint.
The business supplies a range of graphics and displays for several well-known global brands and said the flatbed, which also has roll-to-roll functionality, would provide a competitive edge for its branding and retail client work.
Equipped with eight channels, the printer accommodates CMYK, white, varnish, and neon inks. The two remaining channels offer the potential to upgrade.
The Kudu’s 3.2×2m flatbed system enables precise printing on rigid materials such as thin card and double-sided media, as its registration pins ensure total accuracy, according to SwissQprint. All media is held securely through the printing process by the Kudu’s powerful vacuum.
Additionally, the machine can print multiple layers of ink to enable intricate textures and creative effects.
Its sustainability features align with KGK Genix’s ISO accreditation; the Kudu is certified as first-class in energy efficiency, using only 2.2 kWh of electricity, equivalent to the consumption of an average kettle.
David Pitts, production director at KGK Genix, said: “We needed a new machine to elevate our offering, and the Kudu has delivered on all fronts with its speed, flexibility, and sustainability credentials.
“It’s potentially the best machine we’ve ever had and hopefully signals the start of an exciting new relationship with SwissQprint.”
Pete Smallwood, regional sales manager at SwissQprint, added: “We’re thrilled to see the Kudu in action at KGK Genix.
“This machine enables them to push creative boundaries and offer even more striking designs, including neons and textures, to their clients. We’re proud to support them as they continue to grow and innovate.”
The Kudu quickly followed the installation of other new machines including a Konica Minolta AccurioPress C12000 and five Morgana finishing machines, which enabled the business to bring the entirety of its small-format business in-house for the first time.
It recently consolidated its production sites in Harlow, Essex and Thundridge, Hertfordshire into a bigger Harlow site, expanded to 2,200sqm by the leasing of a neighbouring unit.
With it came the closure of the Thundridge site, although all production staff stayed on with the company.
KGK Genix employs 66 staff across the Harlow production site and its London design office, turning over just under £9m.
