Evolve, which was established in 1947, offers litho, wide-format and digital printing, and finishing. It is an environmentally proactive business, conducting constant trials and implementations of new technologies that lower energy and resource consumption together with the use of eco-friendly consumables.
What inks were you using before?
We were using the Inkredible range from Stehlin Hostag.
Why did you decide to switch to these inks?
We had issues in being able to hold colour consistently on run and we also had to run higher levels of ink to achieve ISO standards, which didn't seem to suit our presses.
Why did you choose this particular brand of inks?
They were recommended by a minder I used to work with.
Did you look at any alternative brands?
No. We liked these instantly because we could run less ink up to achieve weight, and colour held perfectly on run. Also, less weight equals less ink used.
What do you particularly like about them?
This ink has made it easier for my team to achieve the ISO standard. Our clients, many of which we still have from our original roots as The Ruislip Press before changing our trading name to Evolve, have always been our best sales team – through all their recommendations we have gone forward even through the dark days of print. So quality is paramount to keep our good reputation and using a good product makes high quality easier to achieve.
Is there anything that you dislike about the inks?
Not at the moment.
How reliable or consistent have the inks been?
They've been very good.
Would you say that they have saved you any money?
Our ink, makeready times and paper usage have all decreased. Also any set-off problems are a thing of the past.
Would you say that they offer value for money?
Yes. While Van Son inks do cost a little more than similar products from other suppliers, they provide us with the consistent results that ISO12647-2 dictates.
Would you say that the inks have directly helped you to win new work?
That would be a hard question to answer as we have always set the bar high on our print and services and that is the basis on which we gain new and repeat business.
Did you have any teething problems with the inks or were you up to speed with them from the off?
When we first started with Van Son products, the Pro version was a little too tacky so we moved to the Perfect version and this proved good for our two Komori presses. We now hardly ever need to adjust our plate curves by much to achieve a good ISO pass on press.
How was the service?
The advice was good and the product sold itself.
Based on your own experience of using the inks would you recommend them to somebody else?
Yes.
Conclusion
User's verdict
Quality *****
Reliability *****
Value for money *****
Supplier's response
Clive Harper, managing director of Inks and Printing Technologies – the UK's main agent for Van Son printing inks – says: "Quickson Perfect goes on press, stays on press, and performs more consistently than any other ink product that I have worked with. The traditional values that are the backbone of Van Son have helped to create a product that meets the tough demands placed on it by the modern printer."
Price on application
Contact Inks and Printing Technologies 0845 6034005
