Because of the increasing levels of interest from the commercial print sector wanting to move into wide-format ink-jet production, Roland DG is now offering succinct and practical information on a dedicated microsite located at www.rolanddg.co.uk/RCM23. This forward-thinking manufacturer of versatile ink-jet systems has also produced a special printed guide explaining the benefits of wide-format production, and this is available free of charge via the same web page.

As a long established manufacturer of reliable, high quality production systems for the digital arena, Roland DG has always reacted positively with emerging markets for its technology. The company's latest print-and-cut solutions echo the burgeoning requirements of the commercial print sector and, consequently, offset litho businesses, packaging specialists and proofing houses are amongst those increasingly turning to Roland's wide-format ink-jet solutions. The potential for new avenues of creativity has now moved far beyond simple poster production into increasingly versatile applications which fit the remit of each commercial segment, with new opportunities made possible with the flexibility of durable inks and special finishes.

"Although familiar with display production, the general print sector falls outside the categories usually associated with wide-format digital print, such as sign-makers, photolabs and digital bureaux," explains Brett Newman, Roland DG (UK)'s Technical Director. "This is the reason why we have developed a new area on our web site for the commercial side of the industry which, currently, is looking to invest in ink-jet technology.

"In addition to outlining our product portfolio, we're also offering our valuable free guide which includes all the information needed when considering the purchase of a wide-format machine," continues Newman. "Print companies already have the production skills; now we can help them make the transition into all areas of short-run digital output, including colour matched proofing, labels and packaging prototyping, as well as signs, displays, point-of-sale and a wealth of additional innovative applications."

Roland DG believes that, as well as offering the print-and-cut technology needed for the production of wide-format output, companies established in other sectors of the printing industry also want to know how to maximise their investments into ink-jet. Today's end customers increasingly want to use a single supplier for all print requirements, and Roland's "Ten reasons to get into wide format digital print" endorses the benefits and opportunities available to the commercial sector and its existing client base.

The choice of eco-solvent-based and UV-curable ink formulations also brings with it the ability to print specialist applications which feature unusual textures and finishes. Roland's VersaCAMM VS quartet of solutions is available in a range of sizes and offers metallic and white ink options, whilst the VersaUV LEC-330 and LEC-540 both use flexible UV-curable chemistry, a highly opaque white and a versatile clear varnish, along with LED curing. Both product families include precision contour cutting to exacting tolerances, and all Roland printers are supplied with the versatile VersaWorks RIP.

"The commercial print sector is an important growth area for Roland DG and, as such, it deserves a properly structured approach when wide-format digital print is being considered," Newman concludes. "For a comparatively small investment, businesses can now extend their service offerings into new lucrative areas and, for users who want specific help, the Roland Academy offers specialist courses covering all aspects of software, applications, production and finishing."