It will be launched in October for the UK and European markets and is currently geared up for sheetfed offset litho printers. Harefield-based Bodoni Systems will run the scheme in the UK.

"The accreditation gives value to those who can achieve the standard and to the print buyer," said Bodoni Systems managing director Ian Reid. "It will also benefit sales staff at print firms who will be able to sell for reasons other than just price. It's beneficial to designers as they will know which printers can offer them Pantone colour quality."

The process involves a two-day workshop that includes details on appropriate pre-press equipment and best practice. The next stage is to produce a proof, which is measured by Pantone, and if satisfactory the printer gains provisional accreditation. Full accreditation comes six months after that with a full audit.