The new 2.5 x 1.3m printer has taken the place of The Lux Group’s old UV flatbed – an economic import model from China – in its production lineup, with the old device mothballed at its Bridgnorth production site.

Bought through supplier CMYUK, which is based just 21 miles away in Shrewsbury, and installed at the end of May, the new press has allowed The Lux Group to add A0 format prints to its product offering.

The Mimaki’s ability to print directly onto a variety of substrates has likewise helped the firm take on a number of local printers, who lack the capability, as trade clients.

The Lux Group was founded in 2019 by husband and wife team Mark and Suzanne Cartwright.

Starting with a laser cutter and producing bespoke signage, the company quickly expanded, and now runs four Epilog laser engravers, an Epson dye-sublimation printer for small personalised gifts, and a Mimaki printer-cutter alongside the new Mimaki flatbed.

Mark Cartwright told Printweek that the newest addition has been a roaring success.

He said: “It’s been brilliant, it hasn’t missed a beat. We haven’t had a single problem with it – and that’s testament to [CMYUK]’s training and installation.”

The new printer's larger size, for one, has sped production significantly: where the old press could only produce one A1 table plan or menu at a time, the new machine can print six at once.

“So for its production speed, and all its new features like clear ink and gloss, it ticked all the boxes for us. 

“We knew the [Mimaki] would allow us to take on the work, and that’s why we went for it. 

“It was about expanding the business.”

The Lux Group, Cartwright added, is also looking at investing in a flatbed cutter next year, as it looks to widen the range of substrates the team can print onto.

These plans are just part of the company’s growth strategy that has seen it expand from just the two Cartwrights to a team of eight full-time staff and two part-time.

“This year, we’re hoping to crack the million pound mark,” Cartwright added.