PP Graphics has partnered with CMYUK to transform a Mimaki UJV100-160 printer and CG-160FX cutter into a highly profitable, portable production hub for live events.
Wide-format printing and portability are rarely combined, but PP Graphics has successfully merged the two to open up a profitable new revenue stream. Owned by Full Circle but operating as an independent business, the company invested in a Mimaki UJV100-160 UV LED printer and a Mimaki CG-160FX vinyl cutter from CMYUK. The strategic move was prompted by Full Circle’s key exhibition client, who requested on-demand, on-site print capabilities.
Today, the two-machine configuration acts as a touring production hub, travelling across the UK and Europe to support major shows in cities like Paris, Amsterdam, and Edinburgh. The financial impact has been rapid. Andy McIntyre, General Manager at PP Graphics, says: “The first show paid for the printer, while the second show was all profit.”
The business worked closely with Jason McNulty, Senior Digital Sales Consultant at CMYUK, to find the right hardware. McIntyre explains: “We had a list of printers, but our requirements were specific. We needed a printer that could handle being moved frequently, didn’t struggle with levelling, and was easy to use. What also made the Mimaki the standout choice was that it could be powered by a standard household three-pin plug.”
On site, the setup acts as the “Red Cross of the show floor”. PP Graphics steps in to handle forgotten artwork, last-minute changes, and replacement panels, rescuing exhibitors and unlocking crucial, time-sensitive work that a centralised production facility could never capture. The 1.6m wide UJV100-160 roll-to-roll printer provides instant-dry UV LED ink, while the complementary CG-160FX cutter delivers fast, high-precision contour cutting up to 100cm/s.
Despite the rigours of transportation, rapid installation, and variable environments, the equipment has proven highly durable, requiring only basic daily cleaning to remain fully operational. McIntyre notes: “We’ve had no issues with the printer whatsoever. It’s never missed a beat — it just carries on. It looks after itself.” The only downtime occurred when a rigging beam accidentally fell onto the printer, which was quickly replaced with an identical model to resume service.
The portability of the setup even attracted the attention of Greater Manchester Police, who trained an operative to run a shipped Mimaki printer for secure, covert production. “They did it incognito in some kind of basement. I’d love to have known what they were printing,” adds McIntyre. Looking ahead, PP Graphics is now exploring how to expand this rapid-ROI service model to other organisations and venues.