Wide-format kit distributor Quality Print Services (QPS) sold the Leeds-based sign specialist a Longier Hunter FP-3750 LED flatbed in 2015 and this is set to be joined by a Longier RU 3200 3.2m-wide roll-to-roll machine later this month.

According to WAE managing director Paul Austin, the group has “enough work to warrant the two machines”. Replacing an older model at the end of its working life, the new RU 3200 has been specially adapted from its original spec so it can lift fabric material from the bed, making it suitable for printing mesh banners and Contra Vision graphics.

In an effort to be more environmentally-friendly and energy-efficient, WAE is looking to update its machines to more sustainable equipment like the LED curing system in the UV Longier.

“LED is definitely the way to go over mercury lamps,” Austin said. “We have decided to embrace the technology as and when we replace older machines, and expect to have a full suite of UV printers in the near future.

“The majority of the work which will go through the machine will be for commercial property developers and property management companies, construction companies and a number of retail clients.

“Out of all our machines, the Longier flatbed’s quality is the best we have. We use it for when we need a really high-end finish. It offers a smooth print with no banding, it's good on fine print and the coverage is nice. It's also very reliable, it just keeps on going.”

Despite having yet to see the new printer, WAE happily entered the £72,000 deal with QPS because they had “never been let down” by QPS managing director Chris Bailey. WAE will spend a further £1,500 for scaffolding as the installation will be to the first floor, taken through the side wall of their 1,950sqm, three-floor premises.

WAE Group was incorporated in 2001 as an amalgamation of three older companies – advertising display company Widd, Austin Signs, and Emblem Signs. It has 32 staff covering its office, shop floor and installation teams.