The rental scheme is aimed at printers who either aren't ready to commit to purchasing a device, are struggling to secure finance or simply have a short-term requirement for extra production capacity.

Included in the rental programme are Roland's VersaCamm SP-i and VS-i series of printer/cutters, the VersaART RE-640 printer and the VersaUV LEF-12 and LEF-20 desktop UV promotional product printers.

Roland DG UK is financing the rental scheme directly. Customers will be required to pay a three-month deposit upfront and then make monthly rental payments via direct debit.

The deposit will be refunded at the end of the rental provided the machine is in good working order, while customers will also have the option to buy the machine at market value once the rental period is over.

Customers taking out two- or three-year rental agreements will be able to cancel after 12 and 18 months respectively, with one month's written notice; there will be no early termination charges according to Roland.

Roland gave an example three-year rental cost for its £8,499 VersaCamm SP-300i as £341.25, or £11.22 per day. The rental cost includes one set of inks, VersaWorks RIP software, training at the Roland Academy and a full RolandCare Silver warranty.

James Johnson, business manager, RolandCare and Roland Rentals, said: "This is a very comprehensive package and one we believe will give the new entrant to wide-format printing everything they need to quickly see a return on their investment.

"At Roland, we are consistently trying to find new ways to work with customers to ensure they can take advantage of all our wide format technology has to offer. This programme could open up a whole world of possibilities for many smaller, ambitious businesses and we are looking forward to introducing the many benefits of Roland’s technology to them."