PacPrint 2017 News

2025 National Print Awards Gala shines a spotlight on industry excellence

On Thursday, 22 May, the Australian print industry gathered in celebration at the revitalised 2025 National Print Awards (NPAs) Gala Night, hosted in Sydney by the Visual Media Association (VMA). The evening was a resounding success with just over 400 printing industry colleagues united to recognise the craftsmanship, innovation, and execution of commercial print, digital print, packaging, and visual media. This year’s theme, “Celebrate + Elevate,” was cheered with applause that greeted each of the more than 30 award recipients presented across the Commercial Print, Digital Print, Packaging + Labels, Sales + Marketing, and Creative Services + Prepress categories and the Major Awards. Guests from across the country came together to create a positive atmosphere alive with congratulations, and a shared respect for all nominees and winners from the crowd. The 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award was announced posthumously to Geoff Selig of IVE Group by Chief Executive Officer Kellie Northwood who spoke of Geoff’s approachability, energy, passion and dedication to the industry. The Selig family were in attendance and accepted the award on behalf of Geoff to a standing ovation. Jane Selig, Geoff’s wife with Geoff’s brother Paul Selig delivered a moving tribute. “Geoff loved people and was an extremely compassionate person,” Paul Selig shared. “He knew unequivocally that executing a brilliant strategic business plan was of little use if you did not have the right people and the right culture in the business. He was generous to a fault, a hard worker, he had a strong and strategic mind, and he was a skilled negotiator. He invariable guarded loyalty from all who worked closely with him, born out of his personal attributes and his approach to business, where everyone in the business mattered.” The 2025 Major Awards also honoured Zaidee Jackson, Ball & Doggett with the Ricoh Australia Women in Industry Award and Isobel Clark, Flying Colours who received the Konica Minolta and Plockmatic Group Emerging Talent of the Year. Zaidee Jackson and Isobel Clark each received an exclusive professional development opportunity - a fully funded trip to the United Kingdom to attend the Power of Print conference and an international networking tour this November. Eckersley Print Group was awarded the Environmental Sustainability Achievement for their contribution to environmental sustainability in the industry. Southern Impact received the Workplace Culture + Wellbeing Achievement award, and Cameron Ellis, City of Armadale received the award for Industry Employee of the Year. The Industry Supplier of the Year winner was Henryk Kraszewski, and MCC Australia was presented the award for Print21 Printer of the Year for their numerous winners, finalists and highly commended placings throughout the night. To acknowledge and celebrate over four decades of dedication to the print industry the Industry Service Award honoured Wayne Robinson, Print21.  In category highlights, Taylor’d Press earned distinction as the sole finalist - and winner -in the Commercial Print: Stationery category for “Create Expectations Stationery.” Taylor’d Press also took home an award in the Sales & Marketing – Self Promotion category for their work titled “Coasters”. Other key winners included Bambra Press, who took home the Judges Choice/Excellence in Craft award for their “Bella McGoldrick – Visa Issues” and the Commercial Print – Embellishment: Paper + Binding + Finishing award for their “Macquarie Rise Property Brochure”. MCC Australia won Commercial Print: General Print for “Multicolor Lark The Christmas Cask” and Packaging and Labels: Labels for their “Libation Front and Back Set”, as well as strong finalist positions and highly commended recognition. IVE Group was recognised in the category Labels and Packaging: Packaging for “Starward Panettone Christmas Box” and as the winner of Creative Services + Prepress:...Read More. . .

PacPrint 2025 thrives as a showcase of innovation, industry wisdom, and investment

PacPrint 2025 concluded a highly successful run at the Sydney Showground last week, welcoming 3,847 attendees and 116 exhibiting companies in a dynamic environment that underscored the print and signage industry’s resilience, innovation, and forward momentum. Even daily train disruptions and an extremely wet week in Sydney didn’t discourage the strong crowd. Described by many exhibitors as a standout event, PacPrint 2025 attracted a high-quality audience of serious buyers, with numerous exhibitors reporting strong sales activity from Day One. The sentiment was echoed across the board, with vendors highlighting the presence of decision-makers intent on discovering innovations and making meaningful investments. Notably, a significant contingent from New Zealand added depth to commercial conversations, reinforcing the show's regional importance. Kirsten Taylor, Chair of PacPrint 2025, set the tone during the opening ceremony, describing the event as a “playground of innovation” and a collaborative platform for shaping the future of print. Across four days, this vision was brought to life through cutting-edge exhibits, informative panel sessions, and robust networking. The seminar program proved to be a highlight of PacPrint 2025’s success, offering attendees deep insights into the trends, challenges, and opportunities reshaping the industry. Sessions tackled a wide range of topics, from sustainability and digital transformation to workforce development and sales strategies. The exhibit floor was abuzz with commercial activity. Multiple exhibitors reported strong sales and plenty of high-quality leads, affirming the role of PacPrint as a premier forum for business transactions. A consistent message from exhibitors was that visitors came with purpose – looking for transformative solutions and innovation to drive business growth. Automation and sustainability were top of mind, but the overwhelming driver was the pursuit of new revenue streams and operational efficiency. With post-event surveys underway, organisers expect to gather deeper insights to further enhance future editions. However, early indicators point to resounding satisfaction: strong foot traffic, meaningful engagement, and business outcomes that reaffirm the essential value of trade shows – particularly those embracing hybrid strategies to extend their reach. As Taylor summed up, “The positive energy and commercial success reaffirm the essential role of PacPrint for our industry.” With its blend of thought leadership, transformative technology, and tangible outcomes, PacPrint 2025 has once again proven itself a vital catalyst for the industry’s evolution. The organisers extend their heartfelt thanks to all attendees, exhibitors, expert presenters and panellists, sponsors, and partners. Your passion, participation, and collaboration are what make PacPrint 2025 the premier event for the print, sign, labels and packaging, and visual media industry.PacPrint 2025 ran from 20–23 May 2025 at the Sydney Showground, co-located with Visual Impact and Label & Packaging Expo.For more information about PacPrint 2025, contact the PacPrint 2025 events team at exhibitions@visualconnections.org.au or call +61 2 9868 1577. Information about the show and all the latest news is available on the PacPrint 2025 website.Read More. . .

Workforce, sustainability, and sales momentum drive day three at PacPrint 2025

Day Three at PacPrint 2025 opened with a powerful focus on the future of the print and signage workforce, as the Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance (MISA) took to the stage at 10:15am to spotlight national training and development initiatives. Representatives from MISA shared insights into emerging industry skill demands and introduced a suite of practical training and mentoring solutions aimed at addressing current workforce challenges. Their strategic partnership with the Visual Media Association drew particular attention, showcasing joint efforts to combat the aging workforce and attract a new generation of talent. This collaboration includes an expanded apprenticeship pathway, and a mentoring program designed to guide young professionals and newcomers into the print sector. The session strongly complemented The Inkers Emerging Talent Program, launched on Day Two in collaboration with Konica Minolta. “This alignment of government, industry, and employers is exactly what our sector needs to ensure a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals,” said Kirsten Taylor, Chair of PacPrint 2025. “The excitement and support around emerging talent at this year’s event is unlike anything we’ve seen before.” Compliance took centre stage later in the morning with the Signage Licensing Panel, where Damian Nielsen (ASGA), Mick Harrold (ASGA President), and Charly Taylor (CI-Advantage), facilitated by Janet Maitland (Image Magazine), unpacked the critical licensing requirements that businesses must meet to stay compliant and competitive. At midday, the Industry Associations Panel, facilitated by Lindy Hughson (Print 21), brought together industry leaders Ruth Cobb (PrintNZ), Kellie Northwood (Visual Media Association), Karren Challoner-Miles (Visual Connections), and Mick Harrold to examine policy, innovation, and workforce strategies guiding the sector’s future. Sustainability returned to the spotlight at 1:15pm with the Label & Packaging Compliance Panel, followed by a 3:00pm session from Stephanie Strassberger, Vice President Asia & Pacific at Gmund Paper. Stephanie delivered a comprehensive forum on global sustainability trends in paper and packaging, spotlighting recyclable and biodegradable materials, shifting consumer expectations, and upcoming regulatory frameworks. Her expertise and real-world case studies inspired businesses to innovate their practices while aligning with environmental goals. The Fireside Chat with Matt Aitken, Managing Director of IVE Group, provided a high-impact discussion on leadership in the evolving print landscape. Facilitated by Kellie Northwood, Aitken offered insights on strategic growth, building effective teams, and integrating print and digital operations. The day concluded with the electrifying session “Be the Interruption!” by Ciaran McGuigan of Strike Force Sales, energising the audience with actionable strategies to lead rather than react in an ever-changing business world. Beyond the seminar rooms, the show floor buzzed with activity as exhibitors reported strong sales momentum including Trimatt who confirmed the sale of its ColourStar AQV versatile printer on Day One, with installation for their new client scheduled within the week. “Selling an order in the first four hours of the show, that's our purpose for coming to the show,” said Matt Johnson, Founder of Trimatt. “We’ve had a great response from the New South Wales market, and we’re really pleased with how many local people have come to PacPrint 2025 in Sydney this year.” Ron King, Owner of Rollover echoed the success, reporting multiple sales and highlighting the value of face-to-face engagement. “The shows always deliver direct contact with potential customers, high-quality leads, visits from existing clients, and a fantastic platform to demonstrate our products,” Ron King said. “Day Three captured the heart of what PacPrint 2025 is all about—future talent, sustainable practices, strong leadership, and real-world outcomes,” concluded Taylor. “The positive energy and commercial success we’re seeing reaffirm the essential role of PacPrint for our industry.” PacPrint 2025 runs from 20–23 May 2025 at the Sydney Showground, co-located with...Read More. . .

VMA unveils 'The Inkers' - EmergingTalent Program

The Visual Media Association (VMA) officially launched the emerging talent program, The Inkers - Make your Mark, with platinum sponsor Konica Minolta at PacPrint today. Unveiled on the Konica Minolta stand during the opening days of PacPrint 2025, The Inkers is the paper, print, publishing, packaging and mail industry’s first structured, nationally coordinated support initiative designed for early-career professionals. The program is targeted at apprentices, trainees, cadets, and young professionals who have worked in the sector for five years or less, to provide a supportive and networking community aimed at improving trainee and apprentice completion rates, and to support the next generation of talent through the industry sectors. The formal launch marks the culmination of consultation, industry engagement, and brand development over the past months. Since first announcing its intent to build a program for emerging talent, the VMA has held an industry led workshop, stakeholder interviews, and reviewed possible alignment with government strategies, particularly the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) and the industry’s jobs and skills council. At the centre of the program’s new identity is The Inkers, with ‘ink’ being the common connector across all channels and the fingerprint-influenced logo symbolises creativity, individuality and legacy qualities the VMA believes embody our emerging talent. “We are proud to launch The Inkers – Make Your Mark, a program designed by and for the emerging voices in our industry,” commented Kellie Northwood, Chief Executive Officer of the Visual Media Association. “This program is a commitment to the development of a skilled, connected and visible workforce - one that’s future-ready, supported, and confident to build their professional pathways.” The Inkers program is underpinned by four key pillars:  Support to Skills Development,  Mentorship & Intergenerational Leadership,  Networking & Local Representation, and  Recognition & Visibility.  These focus areas were directly informed by industry input and statistical data, including the concerning 57% national apprentice non-completion rate reported by the ABS. Melissa Dempsey, Chief Marketing Officer at Konica Minolta, echoed the importance of supporting future leaders in the industry. “Konica Minolta is honoured to be the Platinum Sponsor of The Inkers. We see this as a transformative initiative that builds a meaningful pipeline of talent,” Dempsey said. “Investing in people - particularly the next generation - is how we drive innovation, foster inclusion, and ensure the long-term success of our sector.” NOW SEEKING 'MARKERS' – STATE & TERRITORY REPRESENTATIVESWith the name and program structure now officially revealed, the next phase begins as the program looks to build a national committee of representatives, known as Markers. Each Marker will be selected to represent their state or territory and play a key role in championing the program within their local region. Markers will be mentored by senior leaders from the VMA Board, collaborate with industry stakeholders, and act as the voice of emerging professionals in their area. They will also contribute to local events, national strategy meetings, and VMA initiatives throughout the year. Applications to become a Marker are now open and close on 6 June 2025. Successful applicants will be announced on 17 June, with the inaugural Inkers workshop and briefing session to be held at Konica Minolta’s Melbourne headquarters on 2 July 2025. To be eligible, applicants must:  Be currently employed in the visual media sector (including print, paper, packaging, publishing, media, distribution, or design),  Have five years or less total industry experience,  Reside in Australia and be available to attend in-person and virtual events,  Demonstrate a willingness to be mentored and contribute to national activities.  The VMA is encouraging businesses across the industry to identify and nominate emerging leaders within their teams. Additional information and application details are available via email at:...Read More. . .

CMYKhub Unveils Strategic Apparel Move with New AGP DTF Investment at PacPrint 2025

Sydney, Australia – May 21, 2025 – In a bold step to expand its specialty print capabilities and deliver even more value to trade print resellers, CMYKhub announces the acquisition of the AGP DTF-T653 Printer from Kissel + Wolf Australia. The new investment will be featured at PacPrint 2025 in Sydney, positioning CMYKhub at the forefront of on-demand garment transfer printing solutions.Empowering Resellers with Turnkey Apparel DecorationThis move enables CMYKhub to offer ready-to-press Direct-to-Film (DTF) transfers—an ideal solution for resellers with heat press equipment but without the overhead of owning a DTF printer. The printed film can be applied to a wide range of apparel using standard heat presses, enabling resellers to expand their offering with zero capital investment.“Many of our trade customers are already geared up for apparel decoration—they have the heat presses but haven’t made the leap to DTF printing,” said Glen Francis, National Communications Manager at CMYKhub. “With this new service, we’re bridging that gap—delivering high-quality, full-colour printed film they can simply press and sell.”Industry-Leading Machine CapabilitiesThe AGP DTF-T653 printer is a high-performance solution featuring:3 Epson I3200-A1 printheadsCMYK+RGBO+White ink configuration for expanded colour range and vibrancy60cm max print width, ideal for a broad array of garment formatsCaldera DTF RIP software for precision colour controlPaired with the H650 Pro Powder Shaker, which includes an auto powder recycling system and intelligent touchscreen operationThis configuration ensures production-grade efficiency with premium print quality, while reducing media handling and waste—making it a perfect fit for CMYKhub’s scalable production model.In-House Uniform Production Adds Operational ValueBeyond resale benefits, CMYKhub will also use the AGP DTF-T653 to bring uniform production in-house. With over 150 staff across Australia, the company expects to achieve significant savings and control by producing its own branded apparel internally.“This machine delivers on multiple fronts,” said Francis. “It opens new opportunities for our resellers, and it enhances our own operations by improving control, turnaround times, and cost-efficiency on internal uniform production.”A Growing Commitment to Speciality Print SolutionsThe DTF printer strengthens CMYKhub’s existing speciality print portfolio, enhancing its role as a one-stop print partner for trade customers. With the flexibility to print vibrant, durable film transfers for various apparel types, CMYKhub continues to expand the creative possibilities for its resellers across Australia.Visitors to PacPrint 2025 can connect with CMYKhub via the brochure in the event sponsored showbag. They are encouraged to learn more about the DTF film service, explore partnership opportunities, and see how this technology can be a powerful sales driver for trade print businesses.Read More. . .

Informative seminars, milestone partnerships, emerging talent, and print and paper craftsmanship shine on day two of PacPrint 2025

The second day of PacPrint 2025 unfolded with dynamic insights into employee wellbeing, next-generation print technologies, and the enduring power of craftsmanship. From seminars on mental health to product launches and artisan showcases, today highlighted the diverse strengths of the print and graphics sector. Informative seminars Kicking off the day, Steven Gamble of Anchor Health delivered a powerful seminar on the role of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and Mental Health First Aid in the print and manufacturing industries. He stressed the need for organisations to demystify EAPs and build mental health literacy across all levels. “Our mission is to break stigma, build literacy, and drive real change through education and access,” Gamble stated. “By fostering a culture where mental health is understood and prioritised, we’re not just supporting individuals—we're creating resilient, high-performing teams.” Gamble praised the Visual Media Association’s initiative to subsidise Mental Health First Aid training for members, calling it “an unprecedented opportunity for our industry to lead on wellbeing.” This was followed by a session from Christina Bruce from Sellabilities, who not only delivered some practical sales tools and techniques, but a good dose of inspiration to help stand out in a noisy world, create lasting customer relationships and drive loyalty. Later in the afternoon, Stephanie Gaddin, Chair of Women in Print, hosted a fireside chat with Sara Stuart, a Kamilaroi woman who founded Printing with Purpose, Mob Jobs and Dreamtime Range. A distinguished advocate for women in leadership and entrepreneurship, the chat covered challenges to DEI, and the importance of belonging. Label and Packaging Day seminar program It was also Label & Packaging Day, with a full-day program of seminars around this important and dynamic sector. Peter Woods from BOBST shared how to simplify label production, before Paul Sanelli and Adam Todd from Konica Minolta discussed how to leverage the benefits of inkjet in packaging, all with a sustainable focus. The importance of integration and partnerships – and how they can drive growth and profit – was the topic of an intensive session from Justin Webber from Print IQ and Alex Bowell from Infigo. They were followed by Peter Dhondt from CERM shared his expertise on Automation 2.0 for labels and packaging. In the day’s final two sessions, the dynamic Lindsay Nutley talked about UN-sustainability, label trends and other ‘hot stuff’, and Mariella Menato from Denomination provided a fascinating insight into the elements needed to achieve brand sustainability- honesty, ingenuity and bravery. The Inkers: New National Program to Support Emerging Talent and Tackle Industry Skill Gaps A key development unveiled today at PacPrint 2025 was the launch of The Inkers Emerging Talent Program, by the Visual Media Association (VMA) and proudly supported by Platinum Partner Konica Minolta. With the tagline "Make Your Mark," the program aims to tackle one of the most pressing challenges facing the print and visual media industries—apprenticeship non-completion and generational skills loss. “We realised we need to address the 57% non-completion rate of apprenticeships across our industry. For every apprentice we recruit, we are losing more than half. That is not a tenable solution when we have a skills shortage and an aging workforce,” explained Kellie Northwood, CEO of the Visual Media Association. The program provides structured support for those in their first five years in the industry, offering clear pathways to connect with their industry, access mentorship and career development tools. “We’re working with the Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance (MISA) to develop a mentoring program where experienced professionals can guide and support new talent entering the field,” Kellie Northwood continued. The Inkers program is set to become a national benchmark for emerging...Read More. . .

PacPrint 2025 kicks off in Sydney with a vision for the future

The Southern Hemisphere’s premier print, sign, and graphic communications expo, PacPrint 2025, was officially launched today at the Sydney Showground, setting the stage for a transformative showcase of innovation, sustainability, and industry collaboration.  The opening ceremony was led by Kirsten Taylor, Chair of PacPrint 2025, joined by Kevin Pidgeon, President of the Visual Media Association, and Mitchell Mulligan, President of Visual Connections. Together, they welcomed industry leaders, exhibitors, speakers, and attendees, celebrating the start of an event that promises to shape the future of the print and visual media sectors.  “This year, our theme – Innovation, Collaboration, Transformation – captures the very essence of what drives our industry forward. It’s inspiring to see the energy, creativity, and resilience gathered within these walls today, as we come together to shape the future of print,” said Kirsten Taylor. “This is truly a playground of innovation, where our exhibitors are showcasing technologies that challenge boundaries and open new paths for growth. To our valued equipment and solution providers – thank you. Your commitment to progress, excellence, and creativity is what makes this event such a standout experience.”  The first day of PacPrint 2025 saw good crowds exploring the show, visiting the wide range of exhibitor stands, and attending the seminars sessions. Jay Kroll, General Formulations took the guesswork out of adhesive selection and surface compatibility with this essential course on wall (and other) graphic applications.  Kellie Northwood, CEO of the Visual Media Association lead the Print Leadership Panel: Navigating Success in a Changing Industry, who was joined by industry experts Simon Bailey, IVE Group Lachlan Finch, Rawson Print Co., and Emmanuel Buhagiar, Imagination Graphics who discussed how they have grown their businesses despite challenges, leveraging sustainability, technology, and unique market positioning to stay ahead.  The first afternoon session looked at the critical areas of Emerging Talent, with industry leaders Leon Wilson from Revolution Print, Gabrielle Stevens from Konica Minolta, Brett Johnson from IVE Group and Lisa Michalanny from Signageworld looked at how to cultivate the next generation of talent. Later, Steve Fisher from Fujifilm, Craig Hardman from HP, Epson’s Craig Heckenberg and Phillip Trumble from Pozitive provided important insights into supply chain challenges, and how partnership is the key to ensuring businesses can access the innovations they need to build their business success.  “PacPrint is more than a trade show. It’s a space where bold ideas come to life, where connections are made, and where we collectively reimagine the future of our industry. My hope is that you leave here not only inspired, but empowered – with fresh ideas, new tools, and the confidence to take your business to new heights,” Kirstin continued.  That hope was realised as the day flowed on with several exhibitors reporting their first sales of the week, validating the power of trade shows to provide valuable information for businesses to make important investment decisions.  The organisers extended heartfelt thanks to all the exhibitors, sponsors, industry experts, panellists, speakers, and attendees whose contributions have made PacPrint 2025 possible. With hundreds of brands represented, a packed schedule of panels and presentations, and a dynamic mix of in-person and hybrid content, this year’s event is delivering value for every corner of the industry.  “A special thank you goes out to our generous sponsors – platinum, gold, and silver – for your unwavering support,” Kirsten said. “Of course, no PacPrint would be complete without the buzzing show floor. This is truly a playground of innovation, where our exhibitors are showcasing technologies that challenge boundaries and open new paths for growth. To our valued equipment and solution providers – thank you. Your commitment...Read More. . .

The Ministry of Shirts secures Australia’s first ROQ IMPRESS DTF heat transfer press from GJS

SYDNEY, Australia—20 May 2025—GJS today announced that its customer, The Ministry of Shirts, has secured the first ROQ IMPRESS automatic DTF heat transfer press in Australia, alongside the complementary ROQ FEED module.The announcement was made from the floor of PacPrint 2025, where GJS is currently exhibiting, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to bring the latest international advancements in garment decoration and automation to Australian printers.The ROQ IMPRESS is the latest innovation in ROQ’s growing portfolio of digital, automated solutions developed specifically for direct-to-film (DTF) heat transfer processes. The system secured by The Ministry of Shirts also includes the ROQ FEED, an automatic loading device that efficiently positions DTF transfers onto garments. Together, these combine to offer a high-speed, high-production, highly automated workflow, reducing manual labour requirements, and improving quality control.“Australian garment decorators are increasingly recognising the importance of automation to maintain competitiveness and ensure consistent product quality,” said Greg Stone, managing director, GJS. “By securing the first ROQ IMPRESS system in Australia, complete with ROQ FEED, The Ministry of Shirts will be future-proofing its operations and setting a new benchmark for what’s possible in high-volume DTF production,” Stone added.Rising labour costs in Australia have prompted many apparel decorators to re-evaluate their production workflows. Printers need to find smarter, more scalable ways to meet demand without increasing headcount. In this environment, automation is no longer a luxury, it’s a strategic necessity. Technologies like the ROQ IMPRESS, coupled with the ROQ FEED allow businesses to maintain output and quality while reducing manual touchpoints and improving operational efficiency.The Ministry of Shirts has quickly built a national reputation for delivering sustainable, high-quality custom apparel to customers across Australia. The company specialises in screen printing and embroidery, catering to a diverse range of clients, from corporate organisations and local businesses to schools, breweries, sports apparel, churches, and community groups.“In addition to screen printing we have had DTF for a while now and have found it to be a complimentary option for our customers with varying colour requirements and order sizes. The problem has always been how to press fast enough to make it a sustainable option in a high-end commercial environment. “The ROQ IMPRESS solves that problem in one go. To acquire a DTF press that can keep up with our traditional inked automatics is a dream for any print shop; and means we can offer our customers faster turnaround and best value colour prints on smaller runs,” said Sam Austin-Miner, co-founder and Director at The Ministry of Shirts.With its new ROQ IMPRESS, The Ministry of Shirts will be positioned to dramatically increase production capabilities. The ROQ IMPRESS can press up to 500 garments per hour, with precise control over heat, time, and pressure parameters. The addition of the ROQ FEED automates one of the most labour-intensive stages of the DTF process—placing the printed DTF film on each garment—creating a faster and more consistent production workflow and output.“Adding another auto to a print shop is always a daunting process. Not least because it means training up a new team to run a new press, and that takes time as well as increases the cost of overhead in personnel; but what excites me most about the ROQ IMPRESS is it means we can add a complimentary technology that can match the speed of our automatics but run it with fewer people around the press using labour that is less skilled. This means we can keep our key screen printer’s happy with their skillset being used on what they do best,” Austin-Miner added.This investment by The Ministry of Shirts also shows the continued appetite in Australia for ROQ’s technology. Since...Read More. . .

GJS premieres Brother GTXpro Bulk R2R DTF printer in Australia at PacPrint 2025

SYDNEY, Australia—20 May 2025—GJS today premiered the Brother GTXpro Bulk Roll-to-Roll (R2R) direct-to-film (DTF) printer at PacPrint 2025, offering local digital decorators the first opportunity to see this high-quality, roll-fed production system in action in Australia. PacPrint 2025 will be the first time that the Brother GTXpro Bulk R2R DTF printer, already a proven performer internationally, will be publicly displayed and demonstrated in the Australian market. This Australian premiere builds on GJS’ decades-long partnership with Brother International Australia (BIA), which has seen both companies bring innovative direct-to-garment and direct-to-film technologies to thousands of businesses across the country. “We’re once again proud to be working alongside our friends at Brother to introduce one of its latest solutions to the Australian market,” said Greg Stone, managing director, GJS. “This new roll-to-roll capability extends the familiar Brother DTG and DTF workflow and provides Australian digital decorators with a genuine opportunity to scale production and diversify their product offerings.” The Brother GTXpro Bulk R2R delivers continuous, automated printing on film rolls up to 40.6 cm (16-inch) wide. Using the same Innobella Textile ink set trusted by Brother DTG and sheet-fed DTF users, it offers a seamless transition to roll-based workflows with greater throughput and minimal operator intervention. Highlights of the new Brother GTXPro Bulk R2R include:  Efficient gang-sheet printing for small designs—ideal for maximising productivity and reducing waste. Easy maintenance via internal white ink circulation, a wet capping system, and new selectable print modes (high-speed, standard and high-quality). Expand your printable product to a variety of fabrics including dark polyester, blends, stretch fabrics, and heat-sensitive garments. Designed with commercial scalability in mind, the GTXpro Bulk R2R provides a reliable path for businesses to increase production volumes or expand into new textile markets, particularly where synthetic materials and performance apparel are involved such a workwear and sportswear. “For businesses already decorating with Brother equipment, the roll-to-roll is a logical evolution that delivers more output without the need to retrain staff or reinvent workflows. It’s a simple, scalable step towards higher production with broader applications,” Stone concluded. Live demonstrations at PacPrint Attendees at PacPrint 2025 are invited to experience the Brother GTXpro Bulk R2R in operation at the GJS stand (H68). The Brother GTXpro Bulk R2R is available Australia-wide via GJS. For more information, free call 1800 457 888 or email: sales@gjs.coRead More. . .

GJS to showcase high-production DTF automation technology at PacPrint 2025

SYDNEY, Australia—20 May 2025—GJS today debuted the ROQ IMPRESS automatic DTF heat transfer press live at PacPrint 2025, joined by its automation companions the ROQ FEED and ROQ PEEL, offering visitors the first chance in Australia to witness a complete high-speed, high-volume DTF production system in action. With the ability to press up to 500 garments per hour, the ROQ IMPRESS demonstrates how digital decorators can now scale up production while dramatically reducing manual labour, one of the largest cost burdens for garment decorators in Australia. “This is the first time anyone in Australia is able to see this level of DTF automation in person,” said Greg Stone, managing director, GJS. “With the ROQ IMPRESS, ROQ FEED and ROQ PEEL working together, we’re showing what’s possible when speed, consistency and scalability all come together.” The high-production ROQ DTF automation solution on display on GJS’ stand (H68) at PacPrint includes: The ROQ IMPRESS: A high-speed, multi-station automatic DTF heat transfer press that delivers consistent heat, time and pressure across garments of various shapes and sizes; The ROQ FEED: An automated transfer placement device that uses laser-guided alignment and programmable recipes for flawless positioning — even on chest, sleeve or pocket prints; and The ROQ PEEL: A hands-free peeling unit that automatically removes the transfer film, drops it into a disposal bin, and helps maintain continuous workflow without manual interruption. Visitors will be treated to two five-minute live demonstrations daily (11:30am and 2:30pm), where GJS team members will run the equipment live on the show floor, producing finished garments and showcasing real-time production performance. Attendees are encouraged to collect sample garments produced during the demonstrations and engage with the GJS team to explore how this automation solution can be integrated into their operations. The ROQ DTF solutions will be complemented on the GJS stand by the Coltex D604+ DTF Printer and Powder Shaker Solution and the Secabo MultiCut Pro Automatic DTF Transfer Cutter. The Coltex D604+ DTF Printer and Powder Shaker Solution is a 60cm wide, high-production DTF solution capable of speeds up to 27.5 linear meters per hour in dual CMYK+W configuration. It features an automatic powder shaking system, integrated dryer/curer, and an internal smoke purification system, enabling continuous operation for up to 10-hours without powder replenishment The Secabo MultiCut Pro is an advanced flatbed cutter with an integrated conveyor belt, capable of processing typical transfer areas of 600mm x 880mm in just 30–60 seconds. It features a high-performance CCD camera for automatic registration mark detection and supports various media types, including DTF textile transfers and UV DTF adhesive films. “The real value in everything we’re showcasing at PacPrint this year scalability,” Stone added. “These solutions allow businesses to grow without necessarily needing to grow headcount. They deliver speed and quality while lowering the dependency on manual labour. And GJS is proud to be the only supplier in Australia offering complete, end-to-end DTF solutions and sophisticated automation solutions all with the after-sales support we’re renown for,” Stone concluded. The full range of ROQ products including all additional automation components, the Coltex D604+ and Secabo MultiCut Pro are all available Australia-wide exclusively via GJS and on display at stand H68 at PacPrint 2025. For more information, free call 1800 457 888 or email: sales@gjs.coRead More. . .