3 Sixty targets growth with Durst double

3 Sixty has taken on two new wide-format printers from Durst in order to bolster its output in the retail market and expand its textiles offering.

Its latest duo comprises a Rhotex 325 dye-sub printer that will help to move 3 Sixty further into markets such as interiors and soft furnishings and a P10 250 HS Plus hybrid system to focus on the firm’s retail and PoS offering, alongside exhibitions and events work.

The Cardiff-based operation took delivery of the two machines in July in order to expand its existing kit portfolio. Managing director Richard Inkin previously told PrintWeek about his plans to expand his superwide kit following the installation of a Zünd G3 cutter.

“We looked at a variety of different machines ahead of this significant investment, but we decided that consistency of manufacturer was key,” said Inkin. “This is the next phase of our investment drive to meet the demands of a variety of sectors.

“Having these machines allows us to offer customers more flexibility in terms of timelines for jobs, as well as a far greater range of fabrics on which we can dye-sublimate.

“While this is the first time we have invested with Durst, we have known them for a very long time and have a strong relationship. They are a very progressive company and, for us, they seem to have the perfect machinery to help us look after the needs of our clients.”

Durst’s Rhotex 325 is a 3.2m-wide dye-sublimator able to process textiles up to 2mm thick at speeds up to 390sqm/hr. Using a roll-to-roll transport system and Durst's WTS printhead technology, it is designed to print on a wide range of coated and uncoated polyester fabrics.

The Rho P10 250 HS Plus is a 2.5m UV flatbed/roll-to-roll hybrid that can print up to resolutions of 1,000dpi with a maximum speed of 400sqm/hr.

With a growing team of 31 staff and a £3.1m turnover – with sights on £4m by the end of the year – 3 Sixty is intent on expanding beyond its specialisms in display and signage. Its services involve creative, print and installation as per an “audit, print, install” mantra.

On floorspace covering 1,394sqm, the firm runs its two new Dursts alongside three superwide EFI Vuteks, a small-format Canon printer, its Zünd cutter and a range of stitching lines and welders.