Mountain Print, a provider of event graphics and experiential installations, has invested in a new Mimaki JFX500-2131 UV LED flatbed printer and a JWEI JCUT-3230 digital cutting table from CMYUK. This significant upgrade, combined with the move to a spacious new 6,000 sq. ft facility, positions the company for further growth, greater efficiency and expanded capability for its clients.
“This year has been record breaking for us on print with the onboarding of several new clients,” says Darrell Mountain, company owner. “We recognised the necessity of expanding our in-house services to meet tighter deadlines and ensure quality control. This latest investment allows work us to better service our clients and maintain the high standards they expect without being forced to outsource work.”
The company’s relocation to a larger, purpose built production facility has been transformative. With the majority of our work based in London along with our partnerships with various London venues, relocation has allowed us to be more responsive for last minute requests,” Darrell explains.
The new facility not only supports current operations but also provides room for future growth, with improved production flow and storage.
Mimaki flatbed powerThe company’s decision to invest in the Mimaki JFX500-2131 was driven by the proven track record it has with Mimaki technology. “We greatly appreciate the quality and reliability of our existing Mimaki UJV55-320 roll to roll UV LED printers, which have been nothing short of incredible. This positive experience motivated us to further invest in the dedicated flatbed printer. Our production team are very familiar with Mimaki operations, so it made perfect sense,” says Darrell.
The standout feature of this printer has been its ability to print with white ink, an in-house first for the business. “The output of what we can do from the new printer is incredible. The white ink has just enhanced capabilities in-house for our clients, which we’ve never had before. Previously any white ink jobs had to be outsourced but now we can handle everything internally, saving time and money,” Darrell notes.
Efficiency and versatility with JWEIThe JWEI has transformed finishing at the company. Its speed, 3.2m width, and automatic tool changing capabilities have made it indispensable.
“We've saved 80% of labour just by transitioning to the flatbed, printing direct to substrate and then cutting. Previously, we were printing to vinyl, applying it to board, and then cutting.
“The JWEI partners really well with our 3.2m wide printers. We do lots of Silicon Edge Graphics (SEG) here. We put our printed textiles straight onto the JWEI where they are cut quickly and accurately, and then we finish them in-house. The time saving is immense,” explains Darrell.
The JWEI’s versatility means it handles everything from card printing and custom boxes to sign trays and more. It also means that the company can now print and cut acrylic in-house, which it wasn't able to before. “There’s nothing we produce that doesn't go through the JWEI, it’s so versatile. Our six printers can't keep up with the workflow that the JWEI can get through. It’s an absolute ravenous beast, it's really quick, and just so good,” enthuses Darrell.
CMYUK contributionThe company's longstanding relationship with CMYUK (especially Chris Martin, Equipment Sales Director), has been instrumental in its success. “CMYUK is always really responsive. Any questions before your purchase, any problems after the equipment is set-up, be it technical or if you just need some process explanation, there’s always someone at the end of the phone, willing to help you. They are excellent when it comes to customer service and support,” says Darrell.
Future facing
With a new facility, state of the art equipment and a skilled and dedicated team, Mountain Print is poised for continued growth and innovation. “There’s nothing we can’t do in-house now. The next thing would possibly be a wider printer, bringing in another level of service and opportunity.”
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