Prolab Digital, a major digital printing operation in UAE recently took delivery of a new Durst 512R, 5 meter roll-to-roll UV printer. Aaron Reader head of Projects and Accounts and the son of Jayne Reader, founder of the company says Prolab Digital’s core business is large-scale event branding, having cornered high profile local events such as the Abu Dhabi Formula One, Flash concerts, Dubai World Trade Centre events and exhibitions and one-offs such as The FIFA U-17 World Cup UAE, FINA World Swimming Championships and the Canon Concerto, amongst others. “In 1984, Jayne Reader opened Prolab digital as a family-run start-up in Dubai and we continue to thrive. During the economic downturn, Prolab digital diversified and defied our “medium-sized company” label. As Dubai’s fortunes begin to turn around and with a global focus on the Gulf Region for business and worldwide events, Prolab digital has continued this growth. In 2014, Jayne Reader is CEO, instilling that family philosophy and always looking for the next opportunity. Her vision drives this company forward,” Comments Aaron Reader.
According to Aaron the Durst 512R compliments Prolab digital’s vast array of digital production with high resolution print at speeds up to 125SQM/hour and maximum production at 350SQM/hour. “Under one roof, we offer UV roll-to-roll up to 5m width, Solvent Print Production up to 5m width, Latex print up to 3.2m, dye-sublimation up to 3.2m, water-based “Photographic” digital production and UV Flatbed print up to 3.2m width. In addition to our ever-expanding fabrication, signage, product rental and carpentry sections, the Durst printer provides our clients with added flexibility for production and quick turnarounds. Prolab digital’s available production output is greatly increased and the production line is far more efficient. It is the first Durst machine Prolab digital has purchased and in recent years HP and Vutek products have been preferred. The overall quality, industrial output, service package on offer and 5m width printing capabilities for UV roll-to-roll drew us to the 512R.”
Prolab Digital started as a photographic laboratory and later entered digital and large format printing arena. This shift seems to be a natural step for a company who is expert in managing images and colours. Aaron says the experience definitely helped them to master digital printing technology.
“Our focus always has been and always will be quality production. On an average day in Prolab digital, we can produce gallery-standard photographic prints, outdoor wayfinding signage, internal office branding, sponsor activations, flags and billboards. Whilst the quality focus has come from our photographic background and Jayne Reader’s meticulous eye for detail, Prolab digital’s market strength is in our diversity of production options through digital print and fabrication. Prolab digital is a market leader in its fields and we continue to look for new opportunities,” maintains Aaron.
Prolab digital currently employs 120 personnel across graphic design, management and admin, production, carpentry, logistics, procurement and installation.
Elias Bekhaazi, Giffin’s Digital Graphic Systems Division manager says they are excited about the interest that Durst printers has generated among digital print providers in the region. According to Bekhaazi more than 40 Durst machines have been installed throughout the region and there are more orders in the pipeline as well. Giffin graphics will be participating at SGI 2015 exhibition and will be showcasing a Durst machine.