Full-service signage and graphics specialist Blue Sky Signs has expanded its application offering following the installation of a Mimaki UCJV330-160 print-and-cut UV-LED inkjet printer from Soyang Europe. By combining Mimaki’s advanced print capabilities with Soyang’s extensive portfolio of specialist media, the company is now able to deliver a wider range of creative and premium-finish graphics solutions.
Based in Gloucester, Blue Sky Signs designs, manufactures and installs a wide range of signage solutions for customers both locally and nationally. Its services include interior and exterior signage, vehicle graphics and wraps, exhibition graphics, and printed promotional products.
The company is focused firmly on growth, continuously investing in new technology, skills, and capabilities to grow its offering further, take on more ambitious projects, and help its customers achieve even greater visibility. This approach led Blue Sky to its latest hardware purchase: the new Mimaki UCJV330-160.
“As demand for high-quality, fast-turnaround printed applications continued to grow, we wanted to expand our capabilities and improve production efficiency,” said Dave Oldfield, Managing Director of Blue Sky Signs. “We were particularly looking to bring more work in-house, broaden the range of materials we could print onto, and offer clients more creative options, including layered, textured, and specialist finishes that weren’t as easily achievable with our existing setup.”
Broadening applications and reducing outsourcing
After reviewing several options, the company chose the Mimaki UCJV330-160, a roll-to-roll device that runs at speeds of up to 55sq m/hr in four-colour super draft mode and can produce print at a maximum resolution of 1800dpi.
With the Mimaki UCJV330-160, ink is instantly cured under UV light, allowing immediate post-processing. Because it doesn’t rely on specific surface types, it can print on a wide range of substrates, opening up applications such as window graphics, wallpaper, floor graphics, banners, and flags.
“We liked the printer because of its versatility, print quality, and ability to handle a wide variety of applications,” Dave said. “The UV technology allows us to print onto more materials, produce vibrant colours, and create layered effects that really elevate the finished product.”
Blue Sky Signs took delivery of the machine in March 2026 and has already seen an improvement in production, with the Mimaki device being put to work across a range of projects. The company is now running the new device alongside an existing Mimaki CJV150-160 solvent printer and Mimaki laminator, as well as a BubbleFree Application Table which was previously purchased from Soyang.
“We’ve been producing window graphics, display graphics, labels, promotional graphics, and interior branding elements,” Dave said. “The ability to laminate immediately after print – thanks to the UV drying capability – has opened up opportunities for more creative display and premium POS displays. We are also producing shorter-run, fast-turnaround jobs that previously would have been outsourced.
“We can now handle more varied applications in-house, which has increased efficiency and reduced reliance on external suppliers. It has also enabled us to offer new premium print finishes and specialist graphics, helping us win work that we may not have secured previously.
“This is also creating new opportunities in retail, interior branding, and exhibition markets. The Mimaki gives us a strong platform for growth, supporting expansion into higher-end display graphics, interior décor, bespoke wall graphics, and more creative retail installations.”
Soyang partnership drives confidence and growth
Dave also highlighted the role Soyang played during the process, from initial discussions through to installation and ongoing support. Blue Sky Signs has worked with Soyang for several years and uses a range of its materials across multiple applications.
“Investing in the Mimaki has been an exciting step for us,” Dave said. “It strengthens our in-house production capabilities and allows us to offer clients more creative, high-quality solutions. Working with Soyang gave us confidence, as their materials complement the machine perfectly and support the quality we aim to deliver.
“The combination of the Mimaki technology and Soyang materials ensures we can continue delivering innovative signage and graphics to support our ongoing growth plans.”
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