PCG, the largest Hewlett-Packard large-format ink-jet reseller in the UK, has expanded printMAX, its scheme for bundling printers, to include the proofing market.


PrintMAX for Proofing includes a Hewlett-Packard DesignJet 5000 printer, BEST proofing RIP, installation and colour profiling and a three-year warranty as part of the monthly consumables charge.


"HPs machine produces the quality needed for a proof and weve bundled it with colour management so quality is guaranteed," said PCG managing director Mike Bower.


Colour profiling is carried out on-site by BEST distributor Guideline. The price includes one profile. Additional profiles can be made for 600 per day, which can be paid for through the printMAX scheme adding "pennies per proof" to the overall costs.


A deal over two years costs 836 per month, which works out at 9.89 per B2 proof if producing five proofs per day. Deals across three and five years are also available.


PCG is targeting the deal at repro houses and printers that have existing in-house analogue or digital proofing and agencies and designers currently outsourcing their proofing.


It estimates that firms producing five proofs a day could save 3,500 per month.


A latest technology guarantee means users can roll the deal over into one based on the most up-to-date equipment, even if it is from a different manufacturer, without paying a penalty.


The printMAX scheme was endorsed by Prontaprint last month, and has already led to 12 franchisees signing up. It was originally rolled out earlier this year to Kall Kwik franchisees, of which 40 out of 175 have signed up.


"The strength of PCG is in finance," said Robin East, managing director of HP distributor RES. "Its a low-risk sale."


Contact: 020 7401 3418.


Story by Barney Cox