A new EFI VUTEk 5r+ UV LED roll-to-roll superwide-format inkjet printer from Electronics For Imaging, Inc. is helping Katy, Texas-based Foxmark Corporation drive continued growth in commercial and retail interiors for national clients.
“Horsepower is always important when doing national programs,” said Foxmark CEO and Founder Richard Fox of his latest printer installation.
His company also has an additional 198-inch wide VUTEk UV roll-to-roll printer, a VUTEk FabriVU 340 disperse dye sublimation soft signage printer, and a 126-inch wide VUTEk hybrid flatbed/roll-to-roll UV LED printer.
“Clients can set up display design options based on their needs,” Foxmark Sales Director Gary Paczosa said. “Localization is the hottest trend for national retailers and Foxmark provides integrated solutions to meet that demand."
Customers initiate an order through an online portal. The portal – which handles all client reviews and approvals – is integrated with the printers on the production floor. When the projects are approved, the orders then progress to manufacturing, shipping, and on-site installation. All phases are managed within the proprietary Foxmark portal.
“One of our company divisions is Signpost USA. It is another online portal to manage and coordinate outdoor signage for commercial real estate companies nationwide,” said Paczosa. “Customers log in to the portal, customize a preapproved template, and submit the order. Production, installation and invoicing are all handled electronically. The sign is installed exactly where the client requested based on GPS coordinates.”
The VUTEk 5r+ operates at speeds up to 5,160 square feet per hour, and with optional white ink can print all applicable multi-layer applications fast, EFI said.
The VUTEk 5r+ features 7-picoliter UltraDrop Technology.
While Foxmark Corporation sees opportunity in branding and in-store retail applications, corporate interior work – which requires using a broader range of media – is a large and growing part of the business.
“That’s what drew us to the 5r+,” said Paczosa, “the ability to print on various kinds of substrates, whether it be polyester or films.”
“With white inks, we’re seeing a lot in corporate interiors for decorative window films, and wall coverings,” said Fox. “The 5r+ doubles the speed of white printing, so that was a big benefit for us.”
The company has also been seeing growth in translucent projects and sign faces.
“Color-white-color was another reason for our move to the 5r+,” said Fox. The printer’s white printing modes allow for up to five layers, improving versatility and range of projects.