VLM sets up nationwide digital printing service

A new service enabling traditional printers to offer a digital alternative is being launched across the UK by web-to-print specialist VLM.

The Digital Print Partnership, which was set up by VLM earlier in the year, allows traditional printers to order digital print from the company at wholesale prices.

Chief executive and founder Declan Malone said: "The Digital Print Partnership enables companies to get into digital print without the investment.

"We offer wholesale prices that, due to our economies of scales, are cheaper than the printers installing a digital press."

Litho printers are able to sign up to the scheme for free. They are given access to VLM's web-to-print site through which they can order digital prints.

The prints are printed at VLM's Birmingham-based 1579sqm factory. The order is branded with the logo of the company that ordered the print run.

Malone said the decision to launch nationwide was taken following the success of a local trial, which had seen 139 printers sign up since the scheme was launched in January.

"The Digital Print Partnership has been a great success so far in the Midlands," said Malone. "There are thousands of printers in the UK who have some demand for digital print but not the volume to justify an investment in a press."