Leicester-based large format trade printer Printvision is eyeing growth and new applications after investing in a new cutting-edge swissQprint Kudu flatbed printer.
Installed in September at one of Printvision’s recently acquired production sites in Leicester, the swissQprint Kudu is now in full operation, bringing new levels of speed, quality and flexibility to the company. Procurement of the Kudu is part of a multi-million pound investment programme and increases Printvision’s product offering, as it continues to support a nationwide base of resellers with high-end large format and fabric print specialist services.
Driving new applications
Configured with roll to roll and dual roll options together with the ability to print white and varnish, the Kudu is enabling Printvision to expand into more complex and creative applications. These include multilayer printing, textured effects, and work on rigid substrates such as acrylic, glass and wood as well as the fabric substrates it is widely known for. The new Kudu will vastly increase Printvision’s product range available to trade resellers and open up new business.
Printvision managing director Krit Patel is excited about the many other substrates the business is running through the Kudu. “This is an altogether different machine in our line-up,” he said. “The Kudu will give a wider offering to our customers. We are exploring printing on many more substrates with even greater creativity.”
Quality, speed and performance
The Kudu combines huge output alongside top quality print production. The 3.2×2 m machine can operate at a maximum speed of 341 sqm per hour, while being incredibly energy efficient. It consumes an average of 2.2 kilowatt-hours of electricity, the same as a normal kettle.
The decision to invest in the Kudu was made following a demonstration at swissQprint’s UK headquarters in Bracknell, where the machine was put through its paces. “swissQprint has a reputation for making the best machines in the world and we saw that from the very first demonstration,” said Krit. “It is brilliant to have the best machine on the market at Printvision. It adds real prestige to our business.”
Supporting a unique trade model
Operating exclusively as a trade supplier and fabric print specialist, Printvision provides large format print, exhibition and display solutions to resellers, print management companies, and agencies across the UK. The Kudu installation is part of a wider period of investment for the firm, which has recently expanded to 60,000 sq ft across four sites, launched a new MIS system, and is to launch a customer-focused website at the start of 2026.
“Growth is so important, and investment in new technology is crucial to this strategy,” said Krit Patel. “We are showing our customers that we can do so much more for them, and the Kudu is at the heart of this.”
Ian Maxfield, regional sales manager at swissQprint UK, said: “Printvision’s commitment to quality, speed and excellence makes the Kudu a perfect fit for their trade focused business. We’re delighted to be part of their ongoing journey to expand their offer to customers and drive new opportunities.”