Gate7’s innovative use of Mimaki technology and global approach to business makes the difference for KUHN as its industrial graphics benefit from a fresh, new image.
Since 1828, innovation and quality have been the basis of KUHN’s commitment to its customers in the agriculture industry. With over 4,500 staff based at manufacturing facilities across the world, the company is renowned for its innovation and experience in manufacturing farm machinery as it seeks to offer products and services that perform to its customers’ requirements.
When KUHN required a refresh for the visual identity on its machinery, it turned to long-standing partner and manufacturer of printed automotive components and liveries, UK-based Gate7. With its ‘Digital Suite’ comprising of multiple Mimaki wide format and direct to substrate printers, the company had previously provided screen-printed graphics to KUHN.
“Customers are looking for a global standard of quality and a global supplier, yet one that thinks and responds locally,” says Gate7’s Operations Manager, George Heads. “We have been able to supply KUHN with an updated and visually appealing new look that extends across their entire product range, thanks to our use of Mimaki print technology.”
Gate7’s Digital Suite currently boasts a range of Mimaki printers, including the revolutionary Mimaki UJF-7151plus flatbed LED UV, the high speed, roll fed JV400 SUV and several flagship JV300 and CJV300 solvent printers. Working in tandem with its cutting department, it delivers high quality finished decals used to both brand the machinery and add functionality, with the UJF-7151plus providing print direct to polycarbonate for use as switchgear as well as safety and instructional labelling and documentation.
“We rigorously test all of the components that go into manufacturing a decal or membrane switch panel,” says Heads. “We offer our own unique warranty system that ensures all the components meet and exceed an outdoor performance characteristic of no less than 5 years and all the Mimaki inks are tested using our own in-house UV weather, substance and environmental testing equipment. Our challenge is to meet and exceed our customers’ specifications.”
Gate7’s Managing Director, Kate Wickham echoes Heads’ comments. “We take a unique approach to business and we’ve worked hard to nurture our supply chain through product development, finding new ways of improving manufacturing and constantly innovating.”
“Our customers have much higher expectations for decals,” she suggests. “Whilst screen printing still forms an important part of our business, our ongoing transition to digital is helping shape our customers and the way they present their products.”
“We make the difference for KUHN with the products we supply and the way we work with our customers,” Heads states. “Our industry knowledge and understanding helps us maximise the results we can achieve using Mimaki’s print technology.”
This focus on delivering quality control and a desire from customers for reduced lead times is also influencing Gate7’s development. “We replicate our processes and pricing structures in the UK and the USA and our specialist approach makes us an obvious choice for global partnering,” states Wickham, who recently received an MBE for Services to Exports and Outward Investments from Princess Anne at Buckingham Palace. “Export business currently makes up 60% of Gate7’s revenue and the award adds another level of credibility to what we strive to do.”
“Innovative decal design helps brands stand out,” concludes Wickham, “Our graphics create visual impact for companies that compete in increasingly competitive markets and we’re therefore an increasingly important partner for them. Flexible systems, investment in R&D and strong supplier relationships ensure we’re unique in delivering this level of service and product.”
