Headquartered in Cardiff, PPR serves as both a supplier of wide-format equipment and provides its own commercial print services. OKI’s machines will join a portfolio that includes equipment from Ricoh, UTAX, Canon, HP, and KIP.

PPR is using the 1.6m-wide E64s printer for its own printing output, as well as selling it on to customers. The machine uses low-odour SX ink which is designed for high-density, wide-ranging colour and outdoor durability.

“I am delighted to add a quality range of eco-solvent printers to our range,” said PPR managing director Jim Harford. “We see OKI as a natural evolution of our constantly-changing services.

“Our initial supply service involved plan printing for construction companies and architects, but that requirement has since declined and a market for wide-format outdoor graphics has grown, as well as the variety of media applications wanted by customers.

“We have a long tradition now of dealing in wide-format. Our USP is that we only sell what we use ourselves, meaning our endorsement is always genuine and we can offer a more in-depth, knowledgeable technical support system for customers than many other resellers.”

Founded in 1998, PPR began operating as a kit supplier alongside its printing services in 2001 with initial deals to distribute Ricoh and KIP technology. The 14-strong team of long-term staff members spans three premises – a head office and scan/copy centre in Cardiff, as well as another copy centre in Swansea.

Alongside the OKI deal, PPR will continue its rejuvenation with the launch of a new-look website by the mid-February. While Harford referred to plans to “widen our horizons”, the £1m-turnover company is aiming for steady growth in the future.

“It’s an exciting time in wide-format, with new developments likely to emerge from HP and Canon,” he said. “But we are not looking to light up the night sky. We have seen companies grow and fall, and over again, as we have stayed solid – and that is how we like it.”