The Grand Sherpa Universal Advanced-Mix (AM), launched at the Munich show last month, comes in 65in and 90in versions for signs and billboards.

Mike Hardcastle, managing director of supplier DCP Systems, said it used "new mild solvent inks" loaded into eight 220ml cassettes.

"Some of the aggressive solvents need ventilation and we feel people may start making claims. Solvent-based wide-format printers will go the same way as screen printers and become more eco-friendly.

"Ink in the Grand Sherpa offers more UV resistance but is without the chemical nasties. It is an inexpensive outdoor printer," said Hardcastle.

He would not reveal the buyers of the two machines. Prices range from 20,000 to 28,000, and it prints 20m2 to 40m2 an hour on rolls up to 100kg.

DCP will show the kit at a Go Wide tour in September at Sheffield, Ascot and Stirling.

For details visit: www.dcpsystems.co.uk

Story by Jez Abbott