Industry Insight: 3 Trends Changing Large Format Print
In this instalment of our expert interview series, we reunite with Mike Willshaw, Head of Innovation, to explore the latest trends in print marketing.
Our first talk focused on how Leach embraces innovation throughout the project lifecycle. From forming a concept to delivering a custom lightbox, Mike and his design team are primed for anything that comes their way.
As Head of Innovation, Mike is responsible for growing and adapting Leach’s products to meet client demands and help grow their brand further. Below, you’ll discover the top 3 trends shaping the future of large format display graphics.
When it comes to large-format print, bigger is always better. Over the last decade, Mike has witnessed an increasing demand for immense displays, whether XL wall-mounted lightboxes sized 5m x 25m (see VF150 lightbox) or wall coverings connecting multiple rooms.
Extra-large-format displays are prevalent in retail, museums and events. Sizing up is more complex than it sounds, as a lot must be considered. Mike adds, “Huge lightboxes face many technical challenges—the structure can droop, and the in-built LEDs will generate much more heat.”
Leach devotes considerable time to the R&D phase to ensure that these XL displays are built with longevity in mind.
The drive for sustainable products and practices has transformed how brands approach their print marketing. Mike raises, “While greenwashing is a concern, the eco-conscious brands prioritise sustainability at all levels. This is true across the exhibition sector, which has a notoriously large carbon footprint.
At Leach, we’ve adopted sustainable printing practices to meet this industry need and to actively protect the planet. That’s why we partner with isla, a non-profit organisation dedicated to lowering the event industry’s footprint.”
Our exclusive eco materials collection includes the Leach BoxTM, a recyclable lightbox that minimises energy consumption. “The Leach Box was a huge achievement”, Mike added, “It took 12 months of R&D, and our results were an industry first.”
Exhibitions come and go, shopping seasons change, and sporting events run past us. With so much change, brands require faster turnaround times to keep up with what’s next. Mike says,
“Retail brands have a much shorter lead time and need displays for the changing seasons and emerging fashion trends. We have to be ready to update their fabric graphics and any print work at a moment’s notice. For museums, it takes much longer – just see our recent work in The Spanish Gallery.”
While fast turnaround is never an issue at Leach, we predict that our industry will adopt more automation technology and AI to streamline workflows.
We’re creatives, engineers and innovators. Our team are experts at bringing ideas to life, so share your brief and discover how we can help you. Contact us today.
