We’re in post-FESPA mode, but the print industry isn’t slowing down. This week is about futureproofing — new printheads, expanding partnerships, and smarter automation tools redefining how print shops operate.
📢 In today’s Wide Format Brief:🤝 Fujifilm names Soyang Europe as Acuity Triton distributor🖨️ Epson debuts 3 printheads with UV ink improvements🧠 OnPrintShop v12.1 launches with AI-powered upgrades📅 PRINTING United Expo 2025 registration opens📈 Smithers projects $251B digital print market by 2035
📰 Top 5 Headlines This Week
1. Fujifilm Appoints Soyang Europe as UK Distributor for Acuity Triton
Summary: Fujifilm has selected Soyang Europe as the exclusive UK distributor for its hybrid Acuity Triton printer, enhancing access and support for UK PSPs.
Key takeaways:
The partnership includes sales, demos, and service
Acuity Triton targets signage and industrial segments
Soyang expands from media supply to hardware
Why It Matters:With this move, Fujifilm anchors its distribution with a trusted name, ensuring PSPs in the UK have easier access to hybrid wide format technology and localized service.
2. Epson Launches Three New Inkjet Printheads with Enhanced UV Compatibility
Summary: Epson has introduced the S3200-U1-2, S3200-U3-2, and D3000-U1R—three new PrecisionCore heads tailored for industrial UV workflows with higher reliability and print resolution.
Key takeaways:
Enhanced UV compatibility for label, packaging, and signage markets
D3000-U1R offers 1200 dpi and ink recirculation near nozzles
Easy upgrades for OEMs using older Epson models
Why It Matters:These heads unlock higher productivity and consistent image quality in UV-based printing. They also align with industrial print growth, where uptime and detail matter most.
3. OnPrintShop Releases Version 12.1 with AI & UX Enhancements
Summary: OnPrintShop has rolled out version 12.1, delivering AI-enhanced quoting, storefront UX upgrades, and deeper B2B personalization features.
Key takeaways:
AI tools for guided selling and pricing
Custom storefronts now easier to build and manage
Enhanced integration for packaging and wide format
Why It Matters:Web-to-print isn’t just an add-on—it’s a core sales engine. These upgrades empower PSPs to reduce quoting friction and increase conversions, especially in short-run and B2B environments.
4. PRINTING United Expo 2025 Registration Now Open
Summary: Registration has opened for PRINTING United Expo, happening September 10–12 in Orlando. The event will emphasize convergence and post-drupa tech evolution.
Key takeaways:
Early preview of post-drupa tech arriving stateside
Programming will span commercial, wide format, packaging
Expected surge in AI-driven print tools on display
Why It Matters:This is the marquee U.S. event for printers seeking product comparisons, strategic suppliers, and trend forecasting.
5. Smithers Forecasts Digital Print to Reach $251B by 2035
Summary: Smithers’ latest report predicts the digital print market will grow 54.3% to $251.1 billion by 2035, driven by packaging, textiles, and commercial print.
Key takeaways:
Global digital output will reach 2.8 trillion A4 prints
Inkjet will dominate over toner in industrial uses
Personalization and on-demand printing drive growth
Why It Matters:This long-term view confirms what wide format shops already sense—demand is shifting toward faster, flexible, high-resolution output. Strategic investment now = long-term gains.
🎯 This Week’s Strategic Takeaway
The real futureproofing move? Printhead innovation.While workflow gets most of the spotlight, advances like Epson’s UV-compatible printheads signal the next evolution in uptime, ink flexibility, and image quality. Smart PSPs should ask vendors about printhead upgrade paths—not just RIP software features.
❌ This Week’s Noise
“AI will replace print salespeople.”Wrong. AI will assist quoting, yes. But real consultative selling still needs experience, relationships, and trust. AI is a tool, not a rep.
📅 What’s Coming Up
PacPrint 2025 – May 20–23 – Sydney ShowgroundAustralia’s key print event kicks off this week. Expect local launches, hardware news, and ripple effects across APAC.
🧠 Smarter Every Week
“Your print engine is only as good as your workflow. Optimize both—or waste both.”
👋 Thanks for tuning into this week's Wide Format Brief!
Distribution strategy, AI quoting, inkjet innovation—it’s all here. Stay sharp, stay curious, and stay printing.Until next time — keep printing with purpose. 🖨️💡