Walsall-based large-format printer Colour Graphics has switched to Soyang Solar Greyback Frontlit Banner material in response to a rising demand for PVC-free banner work and to win profitable new business from environment-focused customers.

Colour Graphics offers a range of services that includes large-format signage, exhibition displays, marketing materials and event graphics. While demand for its print services in general has been on the rise, the company noted a particular increase in interest for banner printing, and particularly in more environmentally-friendly offerings.

Having decided to offer PVC-free banner printing, and being a Soyang Europe customer of nearly 10 years’ standing, Colour Graphics identified Soyang’s SL-F04 Premium Solar Greyback Frontlit banner material as an appropriate product. A 100% polyester woven fabric coated with a grey back, Soyang SL-F04 has a smooth surface and full opacity, making it suitable for applications such as banners, roll-up banners and home décor.

The fire-resistant fabric is available in widths of up to 5m and is compatible with UV, latex and (eco) solvent printing technologies. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, it is also degradable and Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified.

‘There is a big stigma around the use of PVC, and we were getting asked a lot for non-PVC materials when producing banners,’ said Colour Graphics’ sales and marketing manager James Birch. ‘As we have such a strong relationship with Soyang Europe, we knew they would be able to help us find a solution.’

The decision has proved popular with Colour Graphics customers, with Mr Birch revealing that the company has been able to win new work from clients with a strong focus on limiting their environmental impact. He also notes that the material works well with its Matic Hera impulse welder, used to produce short- to medium-term banner pieces such as pocket banners and café banner systems.

‘We tested out a few non-PVC banner materials with the impulse welder and were really impressed with the results of the Soyang product. Non-PVC banner material is notoriously tricky to weld; we’re really pleased to add this high-performing material to our own range,’ Mr Birch added.

‘By offering this new service, we are plugging a hole in the market created by the stigma of PVC and the need to satisfy environmental requirements,’ he continued. ‘Some of our customers need to hit certain sustainability targets; our new non-PVC offering helps them to achieve this.’