Platinum boosts digital service with Océ Arizona 350GT buy

Platinum Print has purchased an Océ Arizona 350GT to boost the digital side of the business and its large-format capabilities.

The Harrogate-based firm will install the secondhand machine at its 1,672sqm Hookstone Park factory early next month.

“We’ve been looking at wide-format for a while, and buying a second-user machine with a 12-month warranty and rebuild has allowed us to take the plunge,” said managing director Mark Plummer.

“We’re seeing ever increasing growth in the digital side of the business. This investment is about protecting ourselves for the future and putting ourselves in a strong position going forward.”

The Océ Arizona 350GT printer uses five colours including opaque white. It can be used for window graphics and to print directly onto glass, ceramics, plastics and metals up to 50mm thick.

It also comes with roll-to-roll print technology, which will increase the company’s banner and poster production capability. The firm already runs two Mimaki large-format printer-cutters.

The purchase forms part of a wider £300,000 investment programme at the firm, which also includes the refurbishment and expansion of its premises.

“We’ve taken over some buildings next door and also taken up some more office space to accommodate the new machinery,” said Plummer.

“We’re also looking to invest in a Zünd cutting table later this year and will be looking to upgrade our digital presses again soon.”

Earlier this year the firm installed a £750,000 Komori Lithrone S429 H-UV press

Platinum Print employs 29 staff and has a turnover of £3.2m. It works for a wide range of clients across Yorkshire, including local cafe and beverage business Bettys & Taylors Group, Engage Mutual, Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club and Yorkshire Wildlife.

In the past 12 months the company has recorded a 13% increase in turnover. It is targeting a 15% increase in the next year.