BAPC Leader Summer 2021

BAPC LEADER — SUMMER 2021 23 Installed in March 2021, Fujifilm’s new, high-quality 8up CTP platesetter system and switch to Superia ZD processless plates is Hickling & Squires’ latest move to expand its production setup. “We knew that the environmental benefits, as well as the cost, time and labour savings to be gained in making that switch were considerable, but it was just a case of finding the right moment,” says Jamie Gilbert, who is production director of the 60-year- old company. He adds: “With the old platesetter getting replaced anyway, it made sense on a number levels to make sure that the replacement could take us down that processless route.” Jamie explains that the move has created substantial time, cost and labour savings, while there has been in parallel a huge reduction in waste generated through the pre-press process. “2020 was a tough year,” says Jamie, who adds: “Things slowed down a lot, especially during the first lockdown, and we got pretty concerned all over again when the third lockdown was announced in January 2021. But a year on, we’re actually as busy as ever and the future is looking very positive.” The eventual loosening of restrictions meant that the Hickling & Squires’ long-planned investment could finally go ahead, with the new EM Setter finally installed in March 2021. Jamie continues: “We’ve been able to get rid of our processor, whichmeans nomore processing chemicals and nomore processing waste. We used to have to factor in servicing andmaintenance costs for the processor as well, so that has all gone too. It’s completely changed the way we work.” Hickling & Squires has also reported the investment has freed up staff time, enabling them to do more productive work and also creating significant cost-savings. “Processless technology is the future of litho print,” says Andy Kent Divisional Manager, Fujifilm Graphic Systems UK, who adds: “And Fujifilm’s EM Setter offers one of the best value and most accessible routes into this market. We’re delighted to have been able to help Hickling & Squires to take this important step and we look forward to working with them as they continue to build and grow their business.” With commercial printers facing a three-pronged challenge from the business disruption of Covid-19, rapidly changing shifts in demand patterns and pressure from major clients to prove their environmental-credentials, they need every tool available to increase efficiency and reduce wastage. Fujifilm offers Superia quality at Hickling & Squires printers Jamie Gilbert, Production Director at Hickling & Squires has seen very substantial efficiency gains, productivity increases and wastage reductions utilising Fujifilm’s 8up CTP platesetter system and Superia ZD processless plates “Processless technology is the future of litho print,” says Andy Kent Divisional Manager, Fujifilm Graphic Systems UK We knew that the environmental benefits, as well as the cost, time and labour savings to be gained in making that switch were considerable