imagemakers buyers' guide - may/june 2007

feATureS

16 need A by-lAw vAriAnCe? Make Sure You Have Lots of Time

by Just Cole

19 ChooSing The righT PrinTer: There is a Better Way

by Anthony Carrozzella and Peter Elliott

22 iT'S All AbouT SAleS-PArT 3 by Dan Hale

26 leASing verSuS buying: A Quick Look at the Advantages of Leasing

by John De Luca

27 SAfeTy foCuSed e-leArning: Boon or Bane?

by Carola Hicks

29 nAiT TrAining Program for Sign Makers

by Kristen Vernon

4 | imageMakers

C o n t e n t s

induSTry inTereST

10 ConSAC 2006: iMAgeMAking CoMPeTiTion

25 feATured SAC MeMber: The Brothers Markle

by Judith Milne

30 induSTry newS People, Products, Happenings

37 CAlendAr of evenTS

6 froM The SAC offiCe: SAC’S AgM 2006

8 ConSAC reCAP

35 feATured SAC MeMberShiP benefiT: neTworking

36 new MeMberS

37 froM SAC’S exeCuTive direCTor by Bob Bronk

Sign ASSoCiATion of CAnAdA newS & viewS

37 froM SAC’S exeCuTive direCTor by Bob Bronk

President: Robert Mattatall VicePresident: Fred Elkins ExecutiveDirector: Robert (Bob) Bronk Publisher: Robert Thompson Editor: Anne Haapanen SeniorDesigner: Annette Carlucci ProductionManager: Denise Macharacek AccountExecutives: Jack Smith, Les Bridgeman Hayden Dookheran, Gilles Simard David Tetlock, Mike MacGean

PUBLISHEDBY

President: Kevin Brown AdministrationManager: Nancie Privé

Published six times annually5255 Yonge Street, Suite 1000, Toronto, Ontario M2N 6P4

Phone: (416) 512-8186 • Fax: (416) 512-0860Please return undeliverables to:

Sign Association of Canada, 44 Victoria Street, Suite 1519, Toronto, Ontario M5C 1Y2.For address corrections or changes please

e-mail us at [email protected] rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be

reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the written consent of the association.

PM#40787580

44 Victoria Street, Suite 1519, Toronto, Ontario M5C 1Y2

f r o M T h e S A C o f f i C e

President:Robert MattatallMattatall Signs Limited

Past-President:Peter BrimmerGemini Canada

Vice-President:Ontario Chapter President:Fred ElkinsND Graphics Products Ltd.

Secretary-Treasurer:Supplier Member Director:Richard WoodgateAllanson International Inc.

ExecutiveDirector:Robert (Bob) BronkSign Association of Canada

AtlanticProvincesChapterPresident:Frank ThorneMattatall Signs Limited

ManitobaChapterPresident:Wayne RobsonRobson Maintenance Services

QuébecChapterPresident:Michel Spénard

SaskatchewanChapterPresident:Gerry WeningerSeventy Seven Signs Ltd.

Director-at-large:Graham Wyndham-WestWyndham-West & Associates

InternationalSignAssocia-tionRepresentative:Larry CattonAcme Design Service Ltd.

SupplierMemberDirectors:Brian Kennedy3M Canada Company

MarkWestND Graphics Products Ltd.

MarcZarboniEM Plastic & Electric Products Ltd.

BOARDMEMBERS

6 | imageMakers

The Sign Association of Canada’s Annual General Meeting was conducted at a breakfast meeting on Saturday, September 16 at the Toronto Congress Centre. President Peter Brimmer’s address to the members included an update on the growth of the sign industry in Canada, as well as several important announcements.

The first announcement detailed the SAC plan to create a charitable foundation for the purpose of distributing educational bursaries. Employees and the children of employees of SAC member companies will be eligible for cash awards to be used toward their continuing education at college or university. It will be the foundation’s task to raise the necessary funds for the awards through donations, auctions and other volunteer activities. The foundation will provide charitable tax receipts, and over $20,000 has already been pledged to this very worthy project.

The concept was introduced by Jim Drummond of General Signs and Services, and received unanimous approval from the SAC Board. Watch for more details in the near future and learn how you and your company can participate.

The second major announcement was the introduction of the Western Canadian Sign Trade Show to be hosted by SAC. The show will be held in Richmond, B.C. on June 8 and 9, 2007 at the Best Western Richmond Hotel & Conference Centre. Several activities have been planned, including a golf tournament at Green Acres Golf Club on Thursday, June 7. The results of a recent survey indicated a need to connect sign manufacturers with suppliers in western Canada. We anticipate approximately 60 exhibitors, many offering on-site demonstrations, as well as a slate of industry-related seminars.

MediaEdge has begun working on a SAC Buyers' Guide, and we encourage you to look for the forms that we will need to properly highlight and market your company. This information will also be listed in the updated Membership Directory, which will be distributed in early 2007. In addition, the Sign Association of Canada will be enhancing its website and database software. Members will be able to modify or edit their information online. Any changes or updates will be immediately reflected in the website search engine, and in SAC’s membership database. We know all these tools will benefit members by promoting the goods and services they provide.

Sign Association of Canada’s Annual general Meeting 2006

The Official Publication of the Sign Association of CanadaimageMakers

buyerS' guide May/June 2007 | 7

8 | imageMakers

SAC’s 21st annual sign show and convention, now known as “Imagemakers,” was held on September 15 and 16 at the Toronto Congress Centre. This is a very busy couple of days for those who take advantage of all opportunities: the trade show, seminars, a golf tournament, a social night out with dinner and entertainment, the AGM, the sign-competition awards ceremony, and networking at its best.

TrAde Show And SeMinArSExhibit booths at this year’s show were top-notch in both appearance and content, which attendees obviously appreciated; many visitors stayed through much of a day to check out each vendor. Exhibitor demonstrations drew large, enthusiastic

crowds from the time the show opened until the closing announcement.

The “Beaver Dam” was bigger and better than ever. It has become such a popular spot at the show that next year we will again be increasing its floor space, to bring you the master artists who continue to practice some of the earliest crafts of sign making. More than a few “techie types” could be found at the “Dam” learning the basics of woodcarving or pin-striping!

Seminars attracted record numbers of participants who received valuable business ideas and practical training from industry leaders from both the U.S. and Canada. We are always looking to enhance the value of this training, and welcome your ideas and suggestions for next year’s program.

If you didn’t attend any of these sessions, here’s what you missed:

enTerTAinMenTThe golf tournament was sold out, as usual, and the weather was perfect as many hopefuls spent a relaxing day on the course with both old and new friends and enjoyed some great wining and dining afterwards.

Our big night out this year was spent at Casa Loma. Early guests had a tour of the castle and enjoyed a gourmet meal while being entertained by magician Jason Palter. The audience was amused to watch Executive Director Bob Bronk have his (only) suit “sliced” with a knife (and conveniently repaired), and Past President Bob Mattatall prepare

Title Speaker(s) The Quick Description

Prospecting for Profit: There’s Still Plenty of Gold Out There in the Signage Market!

Dave Fellman Attendees heard about Dave’s step-by-step, process approach to prospecting, including how to turn “suspects” to “prospects” to “customers,” and how to handle common – and uncommon – objections.

Credit, Cash, Collections and Leasing Fred Elkins, John De Luca and Stu Barns

The focus here was on the pros and cons of leasing over bank financing, with a look at credit, cash and cash flow. (See John De Luca’s article on page 26.)

Basics of Digital Poster/Signage Production

Broderick Nevison For people getting started in the digital large-format printing industry, this exploration of hardware choices, media considerations, software applications, finishing and post-production options, as well as market opportunities and resources, provided an overview of necessary considerations.

Closing the Sale! Dave Fellman Closing sales frequently requires the right kind of preparation and an orderly execution of closing strategy. Presentation of an approach to effective negotiation had people keenly listening even after two hours.

“imagemakers” and Associated events: The Sign industry’s destination for information, ideas and networking opportunities

2006CONSAC


How to Choose the Right Printer for Your Business: An Overview of Digital Technologies

Jeffrey Uzbalis and Wilson Mor Struggling with a decision about a printer for your business? This seminar was designed to help people choose from the increasing number of digital printing platforms in today’s market.

Estimating and Pricing Principles Dan Hale If being more competitive with your pricing is something your company needs to work on, the tools and techniques presented here would certainly help. (See Dan’s article on page 22.)

Sign Design Basics Peter Lawrence Choosing appropriate fonts, working with letter-spacing issues and understanding eye flow all seemed easier after a session with Peter, who also provided techniques to build better messages.

Variances – Strategies for Winning Just Cole Need to secure a municipal sign variance? This seminar focused on techniques and tactics to improve your chances of success. (Just has an article on this topic on page 16.)

for decapitation! Drinks on the beautiful moonlit terrace completed a perfect evening. It will be hard to top that event, but we’re working on it! Watch for news of next year’s plans.

CoMPeTiTion AwArdS PreSenTATionAfter SAC’s Annual General Meeting, which was conducted over breakfast on Saturday morning – at which outgoing President Peter Brimmer spoke of the healthy state of our industry and marked some of the year’s major achievements – “Imagemakers” competition winners were announced and presented with their awards. With 40 more entries this year than last year, this competition is growing in importance and value to the industry. All submissions were prominently displayed at the main entrance to the show floor, where they were a source of great interest throughout the show. Watch for even more enhancements to the competition next year!

We have lost no time in confirming plans for “Imagemakers 2007,” which will take place once again at the Toronto Congress Centre, on September 28 and 29. Many exhibitors have already booked their spaces, including a number of new companies that attended this year’s show as observers – always a good “sign”!

Finally, we want to thank you for your participation, which contributed to the success of “Imagemakers 2006.” We look forward to welcoming you again next year! iM

f e A T u r e

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SAC’s imagemaking competition is a once-a-year opportunity to acknowlege the best work being done in this industry. Its objective is to promote excellence in the Canadian sign-manufacturing industry. This is a national competition open only to Sign Association of Canada members.

This year’s competition drew a record number of entries and included several new categories. Sign projects are judged based on: l Overall appearance l Innovative use of materials and technology l Professional quality, appearance and creativity of the design l Design compatibility with the building or structure l Communication clarity

Thanks to our judges from George Brown College: Jerri Johnson, Professor, School of Design; Ian Gregory, Professor, School of Graphic Communications; and, Judith Gregory, Coordinator, Design Management Program.

Congratulations to the winners!

imagemaking Competition2006

CONSAC

Premiere Award:

Pride Signs – Cambridge, Ont.

Boat House – Toronto, Ont.

Designed by Pride Signs

llll banners/Soft Signs/wall MuralsAward of Merit:

Mattatall Signs –

Dartmouth, N.S.

Nova Scotia Liquor Commission

– Bayers Lake, N.S.

Designed by NSLC Marketing

Department and Mattatall Signs

Premiere Award:

L’Enseignerie – Lévis, Qué.

Pub le Mitan – Île-d’Orléan, Qué.

Designed by Ghyslain Grenier

llll Carved SignsAward of Merit:

Mattatall Signs –

Dartmouth, N.S.

Sacred Heart School of Halifax

– Halifax, N.S.

Designed by Kelly Franklin and

Aaron Babcock, Mattatall Signs


A w A r d S

Premiere Award:Pride Signs – Cambridge, Ont.Boat House – Toronto, Ont.Designed by Pride Signs

llll Commercial building SignsAward of Merit:Vital Signs Promotions – Markham, Ont.Life Styles – Concord, Ont.Designed by Vital Signs Promotions

Premiere Award:Gregory Signs & Engraving Ltd. – Vaughan, Ont.Ultima Condominiums – North York, Ont.Designed by Gregory Signs & Engraving Ltd.

llll Commercial Monument SignsAward of Merit:Enseignes Marcoux 2001 – Victoriaville, Qué.Poudrier Frères Ltée – Victoriaville, Qué.Designed by Nancy Marcoux, Enseignes Marcoux 2001

Premiere Award:Pride Signs – Cambridge, Ont.Challenger – Kitchener, Ont.Designed by Brian Hardy, Pride Signs

llll electronic Message CentresAward of Merit:Electra Sign Ltd. – Winnipeg, Man.College of Registered Nurses of Manitoba – Winnipeg, Man.Designed by Brett Aho, Electra Sign Ltd.

Premiere Award:

A-tec Signs – Brampton, Ont.

In Vu – Burlington, Ont.

Designed by A-tec Signs

llll engraved & Architectural SignsAward of Merit:

The Brothers Markle –

Toronto, Ont.

Kolel – Toronto, Ont.

Designed by Sam Markle,

The Brothers Markle


Premiere Award:Mattatall Signs – Dartmouth, N.S.Nova Scotia Liquor Commission – Bayers Lake, N.S.Designed by NSLC Marketing Department and Mattatall Signs

llll Point of Purchase displaysAward of Merit:Mattatall Signs – Dartmouth, N.S.Aliant – St. John’s, Nfld.Designed by Breakhouse & K. Carlsen Mfg. Ltd.

Premiere Award:Enseicom Signs – Lachine, Qué.Metro Link – various locations in Halifax, N.S.Designed by Min Landry, Wink Design, and Enseicom Signs

llll unusual/unique displaysAward of Merit:Keltech Signs – Fergus, Ont.Dream Corners – Fergus, Ont.Designed by Pam Edmunds, Keltech Signs

Premiere Award:Trimfx Sign & Design – Grande Prairie, Alta.C4 Mechanical – Grande Prairie, Alta.Designed by Nathan Walker

llll vehicle graphicsAward of Merit:Vital Signs Promotions – Markham, Ont.The Cruise Stop – Markham, Ont.Designed by Vital Signs Promotions

Premiere Award:

Gregory Signs & Engraving Ltd.

– Vaughan, Ont.

Crown Plaza – Toronto, Ont.

Designed by Gregory Signs &

Engraving Ltd.

llll vinyl graphicsAward of Merit:

No award presented this year

A w A r d S

llll

llll

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Premiere Award:The Brothers Markle – Toronto, Ont.York Region Transportation & Works – various locations in York Region, Ont.Designed by Bill Chapman and Florin Gavriluta

llll wayfinding SystemsAward of Merit:The Brothers Markle – Toronto, Ont.Atria – North York, Ont.Designed by Jack Markle

Banners/Soft Signs/Wall Murals

Premiere Award Pride Signs – Cambridge, Ont. Boat House – Toronto, Ont. Pride Signs

Award of Merit Mattatall Signs – Dartmouth, N.S. Nova Scotia Liquor Commission – Bayers Lake, N.S. NSLC Marketing Department and Mattatall Signs

Carved Signs

Premiere Award L’Enseignerie – Lévis, Qué. Pub le Mitan – Île-d’Orléan, Qué. Ghyslain Grenier

Award of Merit Mattatall Signs – Dartmouth, N.S. Sacred Heart School of Halifax – Halifax, N.S. Kelly Franklin and Aaron Babcock, Mattatall Signs

Commercial Building Signs

Premiere Award Pride Signs – Cambridge, Ont. Store Fixture Group – Cambridge, Ont. Pride Signs

Award of Merit Vital Signs Promotions – Markham, Ont. Life Styles – Concord, Ont. Vital Signs Promotions

Commercial Monument Signs

Premiere Award Gregory Signs & Engraving Ltd. – Vaughan, Ont. Ultima Condominiums – North York, Ont. Gregory Signs & Engraving Ltd.

Award of Merit Enseignes Marcoux 2001 – Victoriaville, Qué. Poudrier Frères Ltée. – Victoriaville, Qué. Nancy Marcoux, Enseignes Marcoux 2001

Electronic Message Centres

Premiere Award Pride Signs – Cambridge, Ont. Challenger – Kitchener, Ont. Brian Hardy, Pride Signs

Award of Merit Electra Sign Ltd. – Winnipeg, Man. College of Registered Nurses of Manitoba – Winnipeg, Man. Brett Aho, Electra Sign Ltd.

Engraved & Architectural Signs

Premiere Award A-tec Signs – Brampton, Ont. In Vu – Burlington, Ont. A-tec Signs

Award of Merit The Brothers Markle – Toronto, Ont. Kolel – Toronto, Ont. Sam Markle, The Brothers Markle

Fascia Signs/Illuminated Awnings

Premiere Award Forward Signs Inc. – Toronto, Ont. Journo – Toronto, Ont. Simon Ho, Forward Signs

Award of Merit Pattison Sign Group – Toronto, Ont. MTV – Toronto, Ont. Pattison Sign Group

Free Standing Signs & Roof Signs

Premiere Award

A-tec Signs – Brampton, Ont. College Park – Toronto, Ont. Kramer Design Associates

Award of Merit Electra Sign Ltd. – Winnipeg, Man. South Beach Casino – Scanterbury, Man. Brett Aho, Electra Sign Ltd.

Hand Lettering & Pin Striping

Premiere Award Keltech Signs – Fergus, Ont. O’Donnell – Fergus, Ont. Pam Edmunds, Keltech Signs

Award of Merit Pierre Tardif – Val-Bélair, Qué. Automobiles 305 – Québec City, Qué. Pierre Tardif

Neon Signs

Premiere Award

Electra Sign Ltd. – Winnipeg, Man. South Beach Casino – Scanterbury, Man. Brett Aho, Electra Sign Ltd.

Award of Merit Forward Signs Inc. – Toronto, Ont. Skylark Diner & Lounge – New Jersey, USA

Point of Purchase Displays

Premiere Award Mattatall Signs – Dartmouth, N.S. Nova Scotia Liquor Commission – Bayers Lake, N.S. NSLC Marketing Department and Mattatall Signs

A w A r d S


Award of Merit Mattatall Signs – Dartmouth, N.S. Aliant – St. John’s, Nfld. Breakhouse & K. Carlsen Mfg. Ltd.

Unusual/Unique Displays

Premiere Award Enseicom Signs – Lachine, Qué. Metro Link – various locations in Hali-fax, N.S. Min Landry, Wink Design, and Enseicom Signs

Award of Merit Keltech Signs – Fergus, Ont. Dream Corners – Fergus, Ont. Pam Edmunds, Keltech Signs

Vehicle Graphics

Premiere Award Trimfx Sign & Design – Grande Prairie, Alta. C4 Mechanical – Grande Prairie, Alta. Nathan Walker

Award of Merit Vital Signs Promotions – Markham, Ont. The Cruise Stop – Markham, Ont. Vital Signs Promotions

Vinyl Graphics

Premiere Award

Gregory Signs & Engraving Ltd. – Vaughan, Ont. Crown Plaza – Toronto, Ont. Gregory Signs & Engraving Ltd.

Award of Merit No award presented this year Wayfinding Systems

Premiere Award The Brothers Markle – Toronto, Ont. York Region Transportation & Works – various locations in York Region, Ont. Bill Chapman and Florin Gavriluta

Award of Merit The Brothers Markle – Toronto, Ont. Atria – North York, Ont. Jack Markle

Best of Show

Premiere Award A-tec Signs – Brampton, Ont. College Park – Toronto, Ont. Kramer Design Associates

A w A r d S

Premiere Award:A-tec Signs – Brampton, Ont.College Park – Toronto, Ont.Designed by Kramer Design Associates

llll best of Show

16 | imageMakers

Need a By-law Variance? Make Sure You Have Lots of Time

The hardest thing about getting by-law variance approval for a sign project is the length of time it takes to get it approved. You go to the City to make

the application and then you have to wait for the report, wait for the meetings, wait for the revisions, wait for the approvals. Finally, if all goes well, you’ll get the letter to go ahead.

f e A T u r e

You can expect a basic variance application to go through the following stages:

STAge 1A p p l y f o r t h e v a r i a n c e . Drawings should comprise the elevation of the building with the proposed sign shown, the dimensions of the building wall and of the signage, and, of course, the site plan.

STAge 2A City staff person examines the application and confirms where the proposed signage does not comply with sign regulations. Next, in what is usually the most time-consuming step in the process, the examiner writes a report that identifies all of the areas of non-compliance and provides a recommendation that the proposal be approved or refused.

At this stage, it is important that the application emphasizes that the signage is justifiable. Be sure to have provided during the application stage reasons that the proposed variance should be approved, and reinforce your reasoning in discussions with the plans examiner and at any site visits that may be required with City staff.

Reasons for approvals vary based on the city in which they’re sought, the proposed sign type, and the extent of variance required.

Try to consider all possible reasons that your application might be refused, and focus on addressing those issues. A refusal may be related to the

extent of the variance required and, often, on how much of a precedence would be set by its approval. If the City staff person perceives the variance as too great a deviation from the City’s by-law regulations and he or she cannot ascertain an adequate justification for the variance, it will not get approved.

STAge 3Once the City staff person has completed a review and due diligence with respect to the application, he writes a report. This report is sent to the local city councillor and afterwards to the applicant. It is at this time that the applicant can review the proposed variance with the local councillor, if required, before the application goes any further.

Shortly after distribution o f the report , the i tem i s brought before counci l or one of i ts sub-committees, depending on the format set out by the local municipality. Larger municipalities have a sub-committee review such items before they are brought to counci l . Sub-committee meetings, which are relatively informal, are more likely to provide the public with an opportunity to discuss the item in question than if the matter went directly to council.

I f the variance report is not favourable, it is usually better to have the application b r o u g h t b e f o r e a s u b -committee of council. This gives the applicant an occasion to d i scuss the application’s merits and perhaps to persuade

F e at u r e

18 | imageMakers

committee members that the application should be further reviewed. Once the matter is before council, there is usually no opportunity for the applicant to form a delegation to argue the merits of the application.

STAge 4Once the application has been reviewed by the sub-committee and gone to council for final approval, the last step is to await the authorization letter. Watch for the city clerk’s letter of approval of the proposed variance. This document makes possible the approval of a sign permit application. Only with this letter can you apply for the sign permit itself and finally get a permit to install the signage.

In some cities, these four stages can take a year to complete! Be prepared to work hard and spend a significant amount of time on the variance approval.

MAke Sure The ProCeSS goeS SMooThlyHow do you ensure that this procedure is not a waste of time? It depends on the situation.What i s the reason for the var iance application?

• Is the by-law to which it relates overly restrictive?

• Does the nature of the building make compliance with the by-law impossible?

• Is it simply that your customer wants a sign that doesn’t comply?

Whatever the reason, to get a variance approved, the justification you use is the key. A variance that is justified will be approved. What provides justification though? How is it used and where do you find it?

For each application, justification is pretty much the same. A sign by-law is a document that was created by a municipality to try to cover all types of signage and signage needs. Unfortunately, not all proposals will fall within its regulations. Getting a variance from these regulations is not a negative thing to do. It should be viewed more as a need to approve a unique situation that does not fall within the parameters of the by-law.

CoMMonly uSed JuSTifiCATionS Nature of the Building. Is the building constructed in such a way that a sign cannot be installed in compliance with the by-

law? Is the building located such that the proposed sign will not be useful if installed in compliance with the by-law?

Scale of Sign. A sign constructed to the maximum allowable area under by-law could appear to be too small in relation to the scale of the building. Is the proposed sign going to be so small that it is lost on the building façade?

Sign Type is not Permitted. Once in a while, a sign type is not permitted or not identified in the sign by-law and a variance will be required. In this instance, the justification is based upon the need for that sign type. How does this sign type work better than a sign type that is permitted in the by-law?

It does not matter how much of a variance is required; it is really the way that the justification for the required variance is presented that will usually determine the variance application’s approval or refusal. Even a proposed sign that has many areas of non-compliance can be approved when it is presented with sound reasons.

Finding and using the right justification is the key. A good starting point is to use the individual traits of the proposed sign. Highlight, for example, the sign’s benefits, its slight impact on the community, or even about how small the amount of variance required really is.

Diminish the amount of variance by presenting it as being:• only a small per cent above the maximum

sign area permitted• only slightly larger than the maximum sign

dimensions permitted• required to be located beyond by-law

provisions due to visibility limitations

If the amount of variance required is substantially more than what the by-law permits, negotiations might be required to find common ground that satisfies both the customer and the municipality.

Know, though, that even the most-complete and justifiable application will face a major hurdle: TIME. iM

Just Cole is President of World Impact Inc., in Concord, Ont. He also works with SAC on by-law issues and reviews and is a member of its Ontario Chapter Board of Directors. He can be reached at [email protected].

f e A T u r e


The STePS in ChooSing A PrinTer – The QuiCk lookAnalyze Your Business: What do your customers need and what technology or printer would best align with those needs? What are your anticipated future needs?

Analyze Your Budget: What does today’s price/value map look like? What can you get for your dollar? And what should you consider to be an acceptable return on investment (ROI)?

Review Your Key Buying Criteria: What are the critical inputs that should be considered during the buying process?

At this point in the process, you should have your choices narrowed down to a couple of models or technologies, preparing you to do the following as a last step.

Evaluate the Printer (the “Test Drive”): Now that you’ve locked in on a printer or two, it’s time to take them for a “spin.” What should you evaluate – and how – to ensure that you make the right decision?

There is a Better Way

Having reviewed the advantages and disadvantages of prominent printer technologies in the last issue of ImageMakers, we now present a series of steps and tools to help you evaluate your needs and focus your decision-making on choosing the printer that is right for your business.

f e A T u r e

by Anthony Carrozzella and Peter elliott

Choosing the Right Printer —

20 | imageMakers

f e A T u r e

The deTAiled look AT your buSineSSLet’s start by reviewing the needs of your business.

What markets does your business serve, and, more importantly, what are the needs of your customers in these markets? At this point, it’s very important to also consider the future. What new markets are you considering serving? Obviously, expansion into new markets may have an impact on your printer-purchase decision.

Here’s a quick review of some of the key needs of market segments you may be currently serving:• Fleet: durability, flexibility, conformity, warranty,

print to vinyl, and image quality;• Signage: image quality, durability, warranty, and

backlit capabilities requiring high saturation;

• Even t and Promot ion : shor t - t e r m durability, substrate f lexibility, image quality, and low production cost;

• Point of Purchase: image quality, colour vibrancy, sharpness, ink-substrate adhesion, and low production cost.

To simplify the decision-making process, we’ve developed two charts: Market Applications by Technology and Printer Specifications by Technology.

In the Market Applications chart, a green bar indicates that the technology is applicable; yellow, somewhat applicable; and red, not applicable. Please remember that this article is based largely on our experiences with these technology platforms over the years. Consider these charts as a guide to your buying process. With this in mind, consider a red bar a flag we’ve raised that suggests extra due diligence is necessary on your part.

The second chart, again with the “stop light” colours, provides printer specifications by technology platform.

your budgeTNow that you’ve completed the evaluation of your business and customer needs, the next step in the printer-selection process is to evaluate your budget. What does today’s price/value map look like? And what should you consider to be a healthy return on investment (ROI)?

Option 1Low-priced, cartridge-

based printerOption 2

Mid-range printerOption 3

High-end printer

Output Selling Price ($/sq. ft.) $6.50 $6.50 $6.50

Gross Revenue

Hours Printing per Day 6 6 6

Days in Working Month 22 22 22

Volume per Hour 90 450 1,800

Waste Factor (yield) 85% 85% 85%

Total Printed Media per Day (sq. ft.) 540 2,700 10,800

Sellable Output per Day (sq. ft.) 459 2,295 9,180

Monthly Gross Revenue $65,637 $328,185 $1,312,740

Overhead and Material Costs

Media Price (monthly) $16,038 $80,190 $213,840

Ink @ 200% Coverage (monthly) $5,940 $11,880 $35,640

Monthly Material Costs $21,978 $92,070 $249,480

Labour Rate ($ per hour) $15.00 $22.50 $30.00

Total Production Hours per Day 6 6 6

Monthly Labour Costs* $2,500 $3,750 $5,000

Rent on Production Space $3,000 $3,000 $3,000

Administration and Overhead $9,846 $49,228 $196,911

Cost of Sales (commissions, marketing) $9,846 $49,228 $196,911

Monthly Production Costs $47,170 $197,200 $651,300

Monthly Gross Profit $18,467 $130,985 $661,440

Deduct Monthly Maintenance $200 $1,000 $3,000

Deduct Lease (estimate) $1,583 $6,267 $15,868

Adjusted Monthly Gross Profit $16,684 $123,718 $642,572

Investment and Return

Printer, RIP, Spares $35,000 $200,000 $650,000

Production Software System Incl. Incl. Incl.

Other Costs $2,500 $10,000 $15,000

Total Investment $37,500 $210,000 $665,000

Payback, in Months (50% run rate) 4.5 3.4 2.0

MArkeT APPliCATionS by TeChnologyAQueouSTherMAl TrAnSfer SolvenT uv

Indoor Signage/ P.O.P

Outdoor Signage <2 yrs

Outdoor Signage <5 yrs

Back lit Signage

Fleet <52 yrs

Fleet <5 yrs

applicable

somewhat applicable

not applicables

legend


f e A T u r e

Your budget deliberations will probably inject a dose of reality into the process. While available money may be more than sufficient to select a printer to meet your current and future needs, there is always the possibility that you’ll find you cannot afford the “best” printer for your business.

It might be helpful at this point to see some sample calculations for return on investment that you could adapt for your decision-making process.

In this ROI model, we’re evaluating three printer options. For the sake of discussion, let’s say they are three solvent printers.• Option 1 is a low-priced, cartridge-based

printer.• Option 2 is a mid-range printer.• Option 3 is the high-end printer in the

category.

These ROI equations revolve primarily around saleable output projections. Naturally, the projections must be relatively accurate in order to generate ROI estimates. To calculate payback as part of your decision-making process, don’t forget to factor in all relevant information related to:• Gross selling price• Gross revenue• Overhead and material costs

• Monthly gross profit• Investment and return

From this example, you can see that filling one of the higher-end printers with volume creates healthy gross revenue and quick payback on investment, even though the cost of entry is higher than it is for the other options. However, if we were to decrease the hours of operation on any of these printers by half, the length of time to payback would double. (Payback on any printer is obviously achieved more quickly when volume is high.)

Being able to fairly accurately predict your output volume is essential when you’re deciding on a printer. Without that information, you won’t be able to determine your costs and the anticipated payback on various machines. Armed with information about your company’s specific requirements, you’ll be able to make an informed assessment and appropriate decision.

In the next issue of Imagemakers, we’ll cover key buying criteria in choosing a printer, and make suggestions about how you can develop a high-level understanding of how each printer can meet your requirements. iM

Anthony Carrozzella and Peter Elliott work at 3M Commercial Graphics in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Productivity<50 sfh

<100 sfh<200 sfh<300 sfh>500 sfh

Width >2 M

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Direcct Print to Rigid

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System Cost<$20k

<$100k<$300k$300k*

Operating Costs

PrinTer SPeCifiCATionS by TeChnologyAQueouSTherMAl TrAnSfer SolvenT uv

22 | imageMakers

It’s all about sales – Part 3

In the previous two issues of ImageMakers, I discussed how to determine a selling price for your products based upon cost information specific to your company. Now, I’ll show you how to provide pricing tools to your salespeople to help them close deals.

f e A T u r e

by dan hale

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Refer to the July/August issue to see how different profitable selling prices for the same product can be realized with multiple levels of commissions. By using multiple markups, you can create a sliding-scale commission rate and ensure that your company makes an acceptable profit on its sales.

More on MulTiPle MArkuPSTo sales management, this multiple-markup system is a wonderful tool. Often, when you give a salesperson a product selling price and send him on his way, he will come back to you to renegotiate a lower price for his prospective customer. Allowing for only one selling price does not provide any room for the salesperson to negotiate prices with the customer, forcing him back to the table with you instead of with the customer. Sales staff typically doesn’t sell much when they are talking to you. This is a lose/lose situation. You end up negotiating with your own salesperson and placing the company in an adversarial role. We are the good guys, remember. Aren’t we supposed to support the sales staff, not negotiate with them? Having a sliding-scale pricing system allows us as management to do just that.

The other advantage of this system is probably the most important: it increases sales! By empowering the sales staff with this ability to negotiate, you allow them to make their own decisions, increasing their ability to close sales. Customers have more confidence in your sales team if they can make pricing decisions on the spot. Customers want “can do,” not “I’ll get back to you.”

This pricing stuff is all about sales. The more tools you give yourself and your sales staff, the more sales you’ll realize, leading to an increase in your company’s profit. Here is an example of what a sliding-scale markup sheet might look like.

Let’s review the markup sheet to see what it offers the salesperson. The estimate supplied by the estimating department for this product provides a cost of $4,350. The sales price ranges based on the markup used. The same sign can sell for as

little as $6,829.50 and as much as $10,005.00. For example, if the price is marked up by a factor of 2.3, the sales price will be $10,005. Commission on that sale calculated at 15 per cent provides the salesperson with income of $1,500.75.

It is interesting to note the column that shows the company percentage of profit. Although normally company profits are not shown on a markup sheet, that information is included here as some companies might wish to make use of it. As you can see, the company in this example has decided to also “slide” its profit to help make its salespeople more competitive. Whether or not your company will do this is, of course, a policy decision to be made.

A salesperson armed with this single sheet of paper is authorized to change pricing on the spot, making him more likely to close a sale. This markup sheet is typically created by the estimating department for use in all estimates. Just think: for every sign estimate, you and your salespeople have a markup tool that empowers the sales department and removes you from an adversarial role with your sales staff. Things are looking up!

uSing The Tool To beST AdvAnTAgeNow that we have this tool, let’s look at just how flexible we can make things for the sales department. Remember earlier (in the Imagemakers May/June issue) when I stated that the costs related to “buyouts” are fixed? (Buyouts are components of the cost estimate that the company does not directly perform.) Because these costs are fixed, we can have confidence in them. This is what makes buyouts so nice. Here’s an example of how to leverage fixed costs with our new pricing system.

Let us assume you have a salesperson who brings in a really nice lead. It’s a new shopping centre that will require an extensive amount of signage. The main pylon sign is 40-plus-feet tall and has a double-face message-centre display. Additionally, there are two smaller pylons and some ID wall displays. This project is going to run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars and you are part of the bidding process.

Here’s the catch. Being part of the bidding process means you and several other sign companies get to bid this project. This, of course, means you have to compete. An architect firm has already designed the sign criteria for the plaza, a good thing because you know you will be dealing with apples for apples on the bid with the other sign companies. All your company has to do is put a bid package together based on the architect’s drawings.

Your new sliding-scale markup system will allow your salesperson to negotiate price. I’ve created a sample to give you a better perspective on the numbers and how they work in the sliding-scale system. The cost (our cost) of the main pylon sign without the message-centre display is $52,195.79. The message-centre display is a buyout and will be purchased from a message-centre manufacturer at a cost of $27,433.00, delivered. This makes the company’s total cost $79,628.79. Here is how the markup sliding-scale system looks:

This sliding-scale sample shows us that the salesperson can sell this pylon sign for as little as $119,443.19 and as much as $183,146.22, or anywhere in between, depending on what he is looking for as a commission. Now, if the salesperson decides he wants a 10 per cent commission on the sale, he likely won’t get the order. Competition will dictate that the salesperson be more competitive in most cases. Keep in mind that this is a free-market economy and the buyer is looking for good service. Good service will include a low price.

So what do you do? How do you convince the salesperson to be more competitive if it’s going to cost him commissions? Show some more flexibility! Remember, our cost estimate showed the message-centre display at a cost of $27,433.00 in the buyout section of the estimate. Because buyout costs are fixed, that price won’t change (and you won’t have any overruns). You are very comfortable with these facts. It’s interesting to note that almost 45 per cent of your estimate on this pylon sign is for a buyout. So it’s time to negotiate! Sell the message centre at cost.

Third in a series of four articlesIt’s all about sales – Part 3

24 | imageMakers

Let’s look at what happens to the sliding scale when you remove the price of the message centre and then add it back on after the markup. The total cost of the estimate was $79,628.79; after removing the price of the message centre, the price is lowered to $52,195.79. Example:

Now, the sliding scale shows a selling price, with a 10 per cent commission, of $101,781.79. If you add the cost of the message centre to this price, you get $129,214.79, as opposed to the original selling price at 10 per cent commission of $155,276.14, a reduction of more than $26,000 from the original selling price! The salesperson gets a 10 per cent commission on what he “sold”, which is valued at $101,781.79; this is the pylon sign without the message centre.

If the salesperson had sold the sign and message centre at $129,000 based on the original markup sheet, he would receive only a little over $5,000 in commission. By giving the message centre away at cost, you create a more-competitive price for your salesperson and the salesperson makes more money from a higher commission rate. Now keep in mind, this salesperson doesn’t have to sell it at 10 per cent. He, too, could be more competitive if he has to.

If you do offer the unit at cost (plus tax), you will want special consideration from your salesperson’s customer. As a condition of the sale, you might want to be paid in full prior to the order of the

message-centre unit. This is a small concession on the customer’s part, especially given that he is saving so much money, and you, too, are out nothing! In fact, you might just make some money for doing it. Some manufacturers offer a 2 per cent discount on bills paid within 10 days. This would give you almost $550 for doing pretty much nothing.

Everybody wins! Your salesperson makes the sale because of the strategies you have implemented on the major pylon sign of the project. You make a profit based on your markup system for the rest of the project that your salesperson has sold, and the customer saves money. Creative pricing along with a flexible markup system can make your company a very dynamic sales-oriented business. It is this kind of company that good salespeople gravitate to.

How many times have you seen sign compan ie s adver t i s e fo r “good” o r “experienced” salespeople? It’s safe to assume they don’t want bad ones! Sign companies are always on the prowl for good salespeople; many of them complain they don’t have any. How is it that some sign companies get all the good salespeople, while the others get none?

We want great salespeople, but most of us don’t have a sales-oriented company to support

them. Good salespeople know this. Selling is negotiating with your customer. If you don’t give them the tools to negotiate with, then how can you expect them to sell? Support your sales staff with everything you can imagine. Salespeople have a way of knowing which company to work for.

It’s not enough to build good-quality signs; we are just fooling ourselves if we think so. The customer, not the sign company, defines quality. And it’s the customer who shows us that in the way of sales.

In the next issue, we’ll look at why you should consider leasing signs, as well as selling them. iM

Dan Hale owns and operates a sign company in New York and consults to the industry. He has written several articles on this subject and a book, How to Estimate & Price Signs. He can be contacted at 716-933 7455 or [email protected].

Estimate Sheet (Markup Sheet) Cost estimate $4,350.00 Commission (%) Commission Amount ($) Sales Price ($) Markup Company Profit (%) 15 1,500.75 10,005.00 2.30 15 12 1,044.00 8,700.00 2.00 12 10 848.25 8,482.50 1.95 12 9 724.28 8,047.50 1.85 10 8 626.40 7,830.00 1.80 10 7 538.97 7,699.50 1.77 10 6 443.70 7,395.00 1.70 9 5 363.23 7,624.50 1.67 9 4 281.88 7,047.00 1.62 8 3 208.80 6,960.00 1.60 8 2 136.59 6,829.50 1.57 8This sample is based on a 25 per cent G&A with a 11/2 per cent sales expense on the profit & loss statement

Sales Commission (%) Sales Price ($) Commission Amount ($) 15 183,146.22 27,471.93 12 159,257.58 19,110.91 10 155,276.14 15,527.61 9 147,313.26 13,258.19 8 143,331.82 11,466.55 7 140,942.96 9,866.01 6 135,368.94 8,122.14 5 132,980.08 6,649.00 4 128,998.64 5,159.95 3 127,406.06 3,822.18 2 119,443.19 2,388.86

Sales Commission (%) Sales Price ($) Commission Amount ($) 15 120,050.32 18,007.55 12 104,391.58 12,526.99 10 101,781.79 10,178.18 9 96,562.21 8,690.60 8 93,952.42 7,516.19 7 92,386.55 6,467.06 6 88,732.84 5,323.97 5 87,166.97 4,358.35 4 84,557.18 3,382.29 3 83,513.26 2,505.40 2 78,293.69 1,565.87


Single-parent homes may be all too common in Canada today, but they were anything but common in the 1940s north end of Winnipeg into which Sam and Jack Markle were born. Their strongly independent mother, Bessie, separated from their father when Jack was only six months old, something rarely seen in the close-knit Jewish community of their neighbourhood. They eventually grew up in their grandmother’s home, along with their mother and two unmarried aunts.

“Our mother was tough,” says Sam. “If we came home from school with 98 per cent, she wanted to know what happened to the other 2 per cent! That kind of drive to achieve our best may have been a contributing factor to the tenacity we’ve needed to thrive in this business for more than 40 years.”

Indeed, when Sam, who is the elder of the “Brothers Markle,” initially came to Toronto, his intention was to simply earn enough money to get him to Paris, where he dreamed of becoming an artist. He took a job as a sign painter with a small local company and, in 1955, with $20 borrowed from his roommate, he started his own business. With that money, he bought business cards for $4.50 and a small paint and brush kit and began hand-lettering trucks and other commercial vehicles. Jack, who had arrived from Winnipeg in 1958 planning to pursue a law-school education, joined Sam in the business and the rest, as they say, is history.

By 1966, the brothers had enjoyed significant success with hand-painted signs, but they realized the need for such pieces was diminishing with the increased use of plastics and neon. Knowing nothing about the technical side of neon, but determined to corner a piece of that market, they purchased a small neon company with three employees and merged it with their original business in 1969.

Never abandoning their strong artistic roots, Sam and Jack opened the “Electric Gallery” in 1970, displaying creations that were lit by either battery or electric power. Exhibits came from all over the world and the brothers themselves exhibited pieces in shows in both North America and Europe, eventually even making it to Paris, Sam’s original destination of some 25 years earlier. In 1972, Jack was the only Canadian exhibitor at an art show in Basel, Switzerland, where designer Pierre Cardin purchased a $1,200 piece from him. Canadians also responded enthusiastically to their “pre-Warhol pop art”; the National Art Bank in Ottawa has Markle pieces in its lender bank to this day.

Commercially, the Markles kept ahead of the trends and created neon

signage for major retail and corporate sites throughout North America, including the landmark 25-foot record disc that identified downtown Toronto’s famous “Sam the Record Man” flagship store.

With close ties to many developers who went under during the recession of the 1990s, the Markles faced some major challenges to their business, which at that point occupied a 24,000-square-foot facility with 40 employees. They not only recovered, with a leaner, more-efficient operation, but they also began to look to innovations within the sign industry to create new avenues of business.

Today their website offers a virtual cornucopia of sign constructions – from neon to computerized directories, illuminated and non-illuminated signs – vehicle graphics, consulting and more. The Markles’ entrepreneurial spirit and their strong artistic and design background have helped them to adjust to the constant changes in signage and to thrive in the rapidly growing industry.

However, it’s not all business for Sam and Jack. Both have used their time and talents to “give back” to both the sign industry and the community. When George Brown College offered its first sign-graphics program, the brothers offered an annual cash bursary and a plaque to the most promising student. “Yeah, and then we hired them,” quips Jack, ever the funny man of the pair.

Currently they offer their time and the benefit of their experience to students at Seneca College who may be starting a new business or learning to “think out of the box” to strengthen an existing business – a skill at which both Markles excel.

Both brothers are active fundraisers for the United Jewish Appeal, while Sam is also active with the Canadian Cancer Society for which he is an area captain. Jack is a natural comic who loves nothing more than doing his stand-up comedy routine at seniors’ homes. He claims the residents are the perfect audience. “I can tell the same joke twice and they don’t remember.” “Don’t listen to him,” declares Sam. “He never quits.”

Nor will either of the Markle Brothers – at least not anytime soon. With three awards won in the sign-industry’s recent “Imagemakers” competition, it’s a good bet that they will remain among our most-creative business leaders for many years to come.

Bessie would be proud. iM

If you know of an individual who should be featured in this section, please drop us a line.By Judith Milne

f e A T u r e d S A C M e M b e r

In each issue of Imagemakers, we will focus on a member of the Sign Association of Canada who has made a positive contribution to or impact on his or her community or the sign industry. In this issue, we look at how Sam and Jack Markle are giving back.

The broTherS JACk And SAM MArkle

Brothers Markle

26 | imageMakers

A lease is a financial agreement by which the owner – the “lessor” – conveys to the user – the “lessee” – the right to use equipment in return for a number of specified payments over an agreed period of time. A lease is not the same as a bank loan. It is an asset-based financing product that usually uses the leased equipment as the only collateral security for the transaction.

effiCienT uSe of CAPiTAll Cash tied up in fixed assets is not available to

finance inventory and the profit-producing activities of production.

l Equipment does not normally increase in value over time.

l With the increasing speed of technology obsolescence, there may be little equity potential in owning equipment.

fixed-rATe finAnCingl Leasing typically offers long-term financing at

a fixed rate over the financing term. Fixed-rate transactions are not subject to fluctuations in rate during the term.

SPeedl Leasing decisions can often be made within

hours, and lease agreements are emailed on the same day to the customer.

l The equipment vendor receives payment on the following day.

flexibiliTyl Lease payments can be tailored to a customer’s

revenue streams.l Payment schedules are unmatched in the

traditional lending sector.

SiMPler SeCuriTy ArrAngeMenTSl The lessor retains ownership of the leased

equipment, so leasing involves simpler legal security arrangements.

l The asset leased is generally the collateral for the transaction.

l Lessees can generally access financing more easily for a lease than for a conventional bank loan, because of less-strict requirements.

lower TrAnSACTion CoSTSl Lease transaction costs are generally lower.l The costs of assigning collateral, of legal

documentation and of slower processing times for traditional bank borrowing can be significant, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), for which many conventional financing costs are fixed, rather than being based on the size of the loan.

liTTle CASh reQuiredl When leasing, a lessee can typically finance a

higher percentage of the capital cost of a piece of equipment than when borrowing from a bank, and often with little or no initial down payment. This allows the lessee to preserve cash or bank facilities to meet working capital needs.

off-bAlAnCe-SheeT finAnCingl Under Canadian Generally Accepted

Accounting Principles (GAAP), an operating lease is not capitalized on the financial statements of the lessee. Lease payments are considered an expense for the lessee.

l In contrast, with typical bank financing, a lease is capitalized and recorded as a debt liability of the borrower/lessee on its financial statement, thereby affecting the debt/equity ratio for the business.

exPenSe ClAiMl Often, monthly lease payments can be 100-per-

cent expensed.l Even the monthly payments on a lease with a

$1.00 buyout option at the end of the term – considered a lease for tax purposes – are eligible to be claimed as an expense.

(It’s advisable to discuss your specific situation with an accountant.)These advantages help to explain why leasing

is increasingly becoming an attractive option for Canadian businesses. iM

John De Luca is sales manager for Leasecor Equipment Finance Inc.

Ten Questions to Answer Before Signing a Business Lease1. How am I planning to use this equipment and for how long will I need it?2. Does the lessor understand my business and the role of this transaction in it?3. What is the total lease payment, and are there any other costs I could incur before the lease ends?4. What happens if I want to change the lease or end it before the term expires?5. How am I responsible if the equipment is damaged or destroyed?6. What are my obligations for the equipment in terms of insurance, taxes and maintenance during the lease term?7. Can I upgrade the equipment or add equipment under this lease?8. What are my options at the end of the lease? 9. How do I return the equipment? 10. Are there any costs at the end of the lease?

Leasing versus Buying: A Quick Look at the Advantages of Leasing

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by John de luca

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The global outsourced e-Learning market is currently estimated at more than $14 billion, and it is expected to grow much faster than videotape, instructor-led or other, more-traditional training formats. This method of learning is enjoying a phenomenal success.

Safety and compliance training can be effectively provided through e-Learning programs. The bottom-line question is, “which learning format provides for the best retention and practical applications of the learned material?” Training, learning or education, from any source or in any format, has little value if the information is not put to practical use to fulfill the original learning objective.

There are thousands of safety-focused e-Learning programs available. To review and choose

those that meet the specific safety requirements of a company can be daunting. Not all individuals are computer savvy; e-Learning for these employees could be objectionable. In such a case, it is almost certain that the employees will retain minimal information, and the objective of the training program will have been lost.

It is a challenge to find interactive and user-friendly programs that provide for maximum learning without antagonizing users. The types of workers who will be using the programs need to be evaluated. Are they young or new to the workforce? Are they complacent and set in their ways? Are they enthusiastic, open to being the best they can be by welcoming every new learning opportunity? Someone knowledgeable and competent must evaluate and choose the programs best suited to the company’s and its employees’ specific needs. The

content of the training courses must meet workers’ needs and levels of understanding, and fulfill managers’ and supervisors’ due-diligence requirements.

The person responsible for choosing training programs needs to first identify the company’s hazards and risks, in order to be certain that chosen programs address those specific hazards in sufficient detail to satisfy the Occupational Health & Safety Act's rules and regulations. If a Ministry of Labour inspector were to assess the training, would he or she agree that due diligence has been satisfied? The second important consideration relates to the job specificity of the training. Generic, or one-size-fits-all, training is inadequate and would not prove due diligence in the event of an accident or death investigation.

by Carola hicks

Safety Focused e-Learning:

Boon or Bane?

28 | imageMakers

With the large number of online programs now available, it is possible to choose training programs that meet specific requirements for specific jobs. Programs can be purchased individually or as packages from which specific training programs can be isolated and assigned to individuals in a customized fashion. Pricing for training programs can range from the sublime to the ridiculous, with the high-priced programs not always providing the best source of information or training. As with all purchases, buyer beware; do the research.

Because employers have accepted safety responsibility for their employees, they need to find cost-effective, acceptable and industry-specific health and safety programs. An important benefit of e-Learning is i ts immediate accessibility, which eliminates costly day-away training, production shut-down, and hiring of expensive trainers to do in-house training, and provides new workers with instant access to job-specific training so they can begin doing what they were hired to do without delay.

The advantage of e-Learning versus in-class instruction is that each person receives exactly the same training. Comprehension outcomes can be easily measured by the number of times an employee reviewed the training and how many times he or she

attempted a test. Because tests are randomly shuffled, even two people beside each other, taking the test simultaneously, cannot share answers.

The human resource function of documenting employees’ training is time consuming and takes away from other areas where an HR person is needed. Corporate clients have to track completion of required safety training. E-Learning programs have the capacity to do that tracking: a management and reporting system can be administered by the program provider or clients can use the program themselves to track completed training.

When the many benefits of safety-focused e-Learning are evaluated, it is not difficult to see that this method of learning far exceeds other, more-traditional learning methods and to understand its rate of acceptance and growth. E-learning can absolutely be considered a boon in the delivery of safety training. iM

Carola Hicks is CEO of Workplace Safety Group, a member company of SAC-ACE, partnering with companies to help them achieve workplace health and safety compliance.

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MAry buffA, norThSTAr neTwork inC. And ken hiCkS, workPlACe SAfeTy grouP


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A GrAPhiC SiGN ArTS CerTifiCATe from the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) gave Shawn Dechaine the skills he needed to go straight to work at his first job in a commercial sign shop. “NAIT’s Graphic Sign Arts program taught me the essentials of sign design and layout,” said Dechaine, who graduated in 1994.

After graduating, Dechaine ran his own sign shop in northern Alberta for seven years. For the past four years, he has worked as a sign maker for Northlands, whose facilities include Rexall Place, the home of the Edmonton Oilers.

NAIT’s eight-month certificate program – Canada’s only training program for sign makers – focuses on the graphic design and graphic production of signs.

“The sign industry is huge and diverse, and production methods vary from shop to shop. But the skills required to make signs that catch people’s attention – that doesn’t change. And that’s what we teach our students,” said Susan Ward-Cornish, Head of NAIT’s Graphic Sign Arts program. “When our students leave here, they can go straight to work in a commercial sign shop.”

NAIT’s Graphic Sign Arts program provides students with practical, hands-on experience that includes making signs for NAIT and non-

profit organizations, as well as a two-week work placement.

Students are trained in design and layout, and the effective and appropriate use of colour. They are also trained on computer-aided equipment, such as plotters, CNC routers and large-format digital printers.

Each year, NAIT accepts between 20 and 24 students into the Graphic Sign Arts program. The program largely attracts students from Alberta, but it also attracts applicants from across Canada and around the world.

Graduates can work anywhere in the world. “Signs are everywhere,” said Ward-Cornish, adding that one alumna is a sign maker in Australia.

There are at least two jobs for every graduate – and the jobs come in from across Canada, Ward-Cornish said.

In September, the Graphic Sign Arts program moved to a new home at NAIT Main Campus in Edmonton. The renovated building has two new computer labs, as well as overhead doors, which allow students to install signs on vehicles on site.

In addition to the full-time Graphic Sign Arts program, NAIT offers on-demand training in

boom truck and crane operation across Canada and the United States for the Sign Association of Canada and the International Sign Association.

NAIT is one of the largest institutes of technology in Canada, providing education in business, advanced technologies and skilled trades to more than 67,500 students annually at eight campuses in Alberta. NAIT graduates are qualified to become skilled members of the workforce required to support today’s global, knowledge-based economy. iM

For more information on NAIT’s Graphic Sign Arts program, visit www.nait.ca or contact Susan Ward-Cornish by phone at 780-378-6162 or by email at [email protected] Vernon is in the Corporate Communications department at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology.

nAiT grAPhiC Sign ArTS STudenT AlekSAnder TihoSTuP (bACkground) lAyS vinyl, while ClASSMATe hArShini de ZoySA (foreground) weedS vinyl.

nAiT grAPhiC Sign ArTS STudenT erin ZAhArA MeASureS SubSTrATe Prior To inSTAlling vinyl.

lindSAy MArTin, A STudenT in nAiT’S grAPhiC Sign ArTS ProgrAM, weedS vinyl.

NAIT Offers Canada’s Only Training Program for Sign Makers

by kristen vernon

30 | imageMakers

Arlon, Inc.i. Arlon announces Flexface® WF500-MP, a white, seamless, wide-width, printable, f lexible substrate, designed for large sign faces where durability and uniform light transmission are important. Rated as a six-year outdoor product, WF500 incorporates a low-shrink, high-strength polyester scrim that allows for tensioning and maintenance of form without sagging. The product has a protective coating on both surfaces to promote adhesion of decorative films and good ink absorption for pr int ing. I t a lso enhances seam strength for extra-large faces, provides good UV protection, and is easy to clean. i i . Ar lon has introduced new Calon® colours in both its High Performance and Translucent vinyl films. High Performance is a 2-mil cast vinyl with a clear, permanent adhesive. It comes with an eight-year warranty on exterior, long-term graphics, and is available in nearly 80 colours,

including the new 164 Sandstone, 165 Chrome Yellow, 166 Periwinkle, 167 Moss Green and 111 Viking Blue. Translucent is a 2-mil cast vinyl now available in 43 colours, including new colours 103 Dark Teal, 112 Olive Green, 169 Marigold and 244 Orange Crush. iii. Colorkote™ TC is a new eradicable, flexible, vinyl substrate, coated with premium ink and covered with FX outer protective coating. This pre-decorated substrate is created for backl i t graphic appl icat ions with solid background coverage. The ink and protective coating are designed to be removed with Signtech® Eradicator for various graphic capabilities. Colorkote TC is manufactured using a premium cast PVC, allowing for low shrinkage and high strength, with special additives for weathering and increased UV protection. This easy-clean substrate is offered in a wide variety of colours, and its warranty is extended to eight years after eradication

with the use of Arlon’s new EradaShield spray. EradaShield is formulated using FX technology to help maintain the whiteness of the eradicated area, while keeping the substrate strong, flexible and crack-resistant. Without EradaShield, uncoated portions of ColorKote TC carry a five-year warranty. For further information on Arlon products, contact 714-540-2811 or visit www.arlon.com.

Athentech Technologies Inc.Athentech® introduces home, studio and lab versions – Perfectly Clear® Enthusiast, Perfectly Clear Pro and Perfectly Clear Lab v2.0, respectively – of its Perfectly Clear image-correction technology. All are based on the same imaging algorithms previously available only under license to digital-imaging manufacturers and software firms. Perfectly Clear Lab v2.0 is a hot-folder software application that allows for fully automatic, fast image correction to meet the demands

ProduCTS

Industry News


of photo labs, pre-press houses, commercial display fabricators and other imaging professionals. Perfectly Clear automatically corrects underexposures, removes abnormal tints, and provides depth, clarity, vibrancy and colour correction. It integrates four leading proprietary third-party technologies: Full Color Spectrum by Tribeca Imaging Laboratories, Noiseware for noise removal, Foto Nation for red-eye removal, and Bibble for raw file support. For more information, visit www.athentech.com.

DigiFab Systems, Inc.At SGIA ’06, DigiFab® Systems showed its newest turnkey wide-format printing system, including indoor and outdoor fabrics, a new Evolution RIP, and a new heat fixer. The Digital Textile Fixer features seamless integration with digital textile-printing equipment for a continuous heat-setting process from printer to fixer, hands-free operation for better safety with heating elements, and a special filter for air distillation. Find out more by visiting www.digifab.com or calling 323-581-4500.

Durst Image Technology U.S., LLCi. The Durst Rho 600 Pictor made its North American debut at SGIA. The Rho 600 Pictor is a full-feature, high-image-quality printer with a small footprint. It is equipped with proprietary Quadro™ Array print-head technology to produce crisp, colour-accurate images at true 600-dpi resolution. Available with a proven white-ink printing capability, plus special-effect varnish and spot colours, the Rho 600 Pictor prints directly onto virtually any surface up to 62 inches wide and 1.58 inches thick, at print speeds of nearly 200 sf/hr. Designed primarily for rigid substrates, the Rho 600 Pictor has a productive hardware-and-software option for printing small signs. There’s also a roll feed-and-take-up accessory. ii. The Durst Rho 160R is the first product to emerge from the strategic collaboration between Durst and the 3M Graphics Market Center announced in April 2006. This printer, designed primarily for vehicle graphics, is calibrated for printing on a variety of approved 3M-branded graphic media with the 3M™ Piezo Inkjet Ink Series 2700UV, a premium UV-curable ink series. 3M warrants graphics produced on the Rho

160R using its approved media and inks for up to five years for outdoor uses and up to seven years for indoor uses. The Rho 160R prints up to 62 inches wide at 600-dpi resolution and speeds up to 660 sf/hr. In addition to vehicle wraps, the Rho 160R produces POP displays, posters, banners, outdoor advertising, trade-show graphics, wall decorations, backlit displays and more. For more information on Durst Image Technology U.S., LLC or any of Durst’s products and services, visit www.durstus.com.

E. L. Hatton Sales Co.E. L. Hatton Sales Co., maker of Banner Ups® Adhesive Grommet Tabs, recently announced the introduction of EdgeTabs™, which are designed to provide a quick, easy alternative to grommeting along the edges of banners and on corners. EdgeTabs are clear, so they are virtually invisible on full-colour digital banners. They can be cut in half and used instead of grommets as a hole reinforcement on the corners of pin-style display stand banners. Banner Ups products are available worldwide through a network of graphics distributors. Full product information, including test data and tips for use, can be seen at the company’s website, www.bannerups.com.

Gandinnovations Corp.i. Gandinnovations™ introduces the Jeti® 5024 UV Roll To Roll 5.1-meter-wide (16.8 feet) grand-format printer, designed to print on media types such as reinforced vinyl, pressure sensitive vinyl, canvas, fabrics, mesh and paper. Its head carriage hosts 24 Spectra print heads, while ink designation is four heads per colour allowing for six colour combinations. The Jeti 5024 UVRTR features resolution up to 1200 dpi and an easy-to-use computer interface. Jeti printers are manufactured at Gandinnovations’ 115,000-square-foot plant in Toronto. ii. After recent completion of resolution R&D, Gandinnovations now offers a true 1200-dpi solution for all of its Jeti 3150 Flatbed and Jeti 3324 UV-curable printer models. Customers can choose which resolution – 300 dpi, 600 dpi or 1200 dpi – is the best fit for their business. iii. Gandinnovations

Industry News

32 | imageMakers

recently started manufacturing the Jeti Liquid Laminate, a clear coating of protection made especially for grand-format signs, such as POP displays, car wraps and oversized banners. The Jeti Liquid Laminate provides a glossy finish and good scratch protection to the image, and one version of the product is formulated with UV and fade-resistance inhibitors. The clear coat can be applied with a sponge brush or sprayed on. It dries to the touch in minutes, and is totally cured after 24 hours. It is a water-based, water-soluble product with no volatile organic compounds. A gallon covers anywhere from 600 square feet to 1,100 square feet of sign space, depending on the material and thickness of the coat. For more information about Gandinnovations and its products, visit the company’s website, at www.gandinnovations.com, or call 210-344-9566.

Gandinnovations Corp.Gandinnovations‘ has completed research and development on the Jeti“ 2030 UV Flatbed “Continental” Printer; the machine will make

its debut at FESPA Berlin, German June 5-9 2007 Hall D stand 340 to the general public, although world-wide sales have commenced.

The Jeti“ 2030 UV Flatbed Printer will feature 48 Spectra print heads and a 2x3 meter printing area specifically designed for “continental” or metric rigid materials. 48 heads allows for ink designation of 8 heads per color allowing 6 color combinations. Gandinnovations‘ chose the 48 head design to give shops even more production through a commitment to speed and quality, not to mention versatility.

The Jeti“ 2030 UV Flatbed Printer can print direct to substrates up to two-inches thick, delivering wonderfully detailed photographic images. The four-ton machine prints direct to acrylics, corrugated board, lenticular, wall murals, poster board, tile, drywall, blinds, glass, fabric, vinyl and more.

With speed that far outmatches anything else on the market, the Jeti“ 2030 UV Flatbed makes it possible to have high quality production with multiple image changes, giving print shops the versatility they desire.

The Jeti“ 2030 is a pure flatbed printer that allows for faster workflow than the hybrid roll-to-roll/flatbed printers – offering an extremely sturdy, flat surface to print rigid or even flexible materials.

“Operators will not waste time adjusting and aligning 3x2 meter panels on the printer as materials will not move, which is the case with hybrid machines. The panel is simply placed accordingly with pop up pins on the Jeti“ Flatbed table and operators are ready to print.” says Cory Brock, director of marketing for Gandinnovations‘.

The printing area has also been modified to help reduce emissions from the production. A vent hood has been added over the printing bed that can be opened with help from hydraulics lifts for easy access if adjustments need to be made.

Jeti“ 2030 Flatbed is specifically designed for a “continental” material size (3x2 meters) and prints precisely on any material, no matter how heavy or light. The printing surface has a strong vacuum, in sections, so it can handle heavy materials up to 5 cm thick, as well as light, flexible materials. The position of the bed allows easy access and placement of substrates. “We have an encoder on the X-axis and Y-axis for perfect dot placement. We even use a camera system built into the bed to align the nozzles perfectly on the machine.” adds Brock.

The flatbed table movements are operated by a powerful magnetic system using linear aligned motors and are accurate to one-hundredth of a millimeter. A 200Kg metal, equivalent to a security door, can be printed on without the slightest error in step movements.

Because the Jeti“ 2030 UV Flatbed operates using a vacuum, the suction adheres material to the surface of the table and prevents it from slipping – maintaining consistency throughout the print operation. The vacuum bed permits cardboard and foam board panels to be printed without alterations in print quality definition. Warped materials will have higher and lower levels along the horizontal, creating imperfect printing.

The 1200 dpi Jeti“ 2030 UV Flatbed is available immediately not only to “continental” customers but world-wide and wil l be showcased at upcoming tradeshows. The

Industry News


software interface on this Jeti“ printer is the industry’s best. It is the most complete and user-friendly interface on any system available today. Other unique features include heaters in the reservoir to maintain ink temperature and vacuum in the ink system to extract excess air from the ink before it gets to the heads. “This is the Mercedes Benz of the print world, Gandinnovations‘ has thought of everything and even incorporated an automatic head cleaning system so that any excess ink that might make its way to the heads, is wiped off.” says Brock.

The 48 Spectra print heads provide high-speed graphics in 6 colors with 1200 dpi, and achieves 40 sqm/hr (450 sqft/hr) in best quality mode. White ink and clear varnish option is now available, adding more versatility.

Gandinnovations‘ began using 80 Pico liter (300 dpi) Spectra print heads offering standard quality, and has since offered 50 Pico liter heads (600 dpi) offering both options to customers. Now Gandinnovations‘ will give their customers a taste of the highest

quality offered on the market today, 30 Pico liter heads (1200 dpi). Customers will have their choice on which resolution is the best fit for their business. The new 1200 dpi option will not increase the price of the Gandinnovations‘printers, but give sign shops around the world a better selection of what kind of jobs they prefer to run.

The highly specialized Jeti‚ printers are manufactured at Gandinnovations‘ 115,000 square-foot plant in Toronto, Canada. The worldwide sales and service operation is based out of San Antonio, Texas with satellite offices in Mexico, India, United Arab Emirates and Belgium.

To learn more about the Jeti‚ printers, visit the Gandinnovations‘ website at www.gandinnovations.com.

Gemini Canada If you’re having difficulties with projects calling for small letters, Gemini Canada has a solution that will “mini-mize” your problems. Introducing new GeMINI Metal Letters, precision-made mini-metal letters that are

perfect for applications where the use of extremely small letters is a necessity.

The newest innovation from Gemini, the world’s largest manufacturer of dimensional letters, GeMINI Metal Letters are made of the finest grade bronze, brass and aluminum and finished to the same quality standards as other Gemini metal letters. Elegantly crafted for interior needs, yet sturdy enough for exterior signage, GeMINI Metal Letters are perfect for those small applications when quality is most important.

GeMINI Metal Letters finally provide sign professionals and their customers with

a source for very precise and exacting letters. Until now, small letters like this had to be made the old-fashioned way. GeMINI Metal Letters are perfect every time. Each and every letter is crisp and clean, providing a high-tech source for mini metal letters that have the polished brass look of gold or the silvery glow of satin aluminum.

Just a few months into production, response to GeMINI Metal Letters has been favorable with the company receiving orders

Junkers & Müllers GmbHThe internationally known Abteiberg Museum in Mönchengladbach, Germany, is being restored over a period of about a year. While the restoration is taking place, the Museum has relocated to the Stadttheater Mönchengladbach as “Museum X.“ Junkers & Müllers has played an important role in the facade construction of “Museum X,” transforming the glass Stadttheater with a new face – that looks like pebbled concrete – made of digital printed textile. Printing was done on more than 850m2 of MEDIATEX® material, which is water-resistant and water- and dirt-repellent, and won’t curl after printing. It can be used with aqueous, as well as solvent, eco-solvent and UV-curing inks. See more about the company’s products at www.jm-techtex.com.

Kommerling USA, Inc.Kommerl ing USA celebrates its 10th anniversary in North America with a 100,000-square-foot expansion of the PVC foam-

extrusion operation at its Huntsville, Alabama plant. The new extrusion capacities will double current output. For more information on the plant expansion or to set up a site tour, contact Jerry White, at 1-800-330-2239, ext. 275.

Mutoh America Inc.Mutoh America Inc. and Wasatch Computer Technology announce a new partnership. Wasatch will provide Mutoh customers with RIP software that permits four printers to run at the same time. The SoftRIP solution provides standard colour and workflow features. Contact your local Wasatch or Mutoh reseller for more information about purchasing SoftRIP for your Mutoh device. For more information about Wasatch RIP and print-management products, visit www.wasatch.com; to learn more about Mutoh America Inc., visit www.mutoh.com.

Roland DGA CorporationWinners in the first-ever Roland Wrap Vehicle Graphics Contest have been named. PJ Brassard of LogosPrint.com in Albany, NY won the grand

prize in this North American competition for the best Scion xB vehicle-graphics design. Brassard’s winning design was selected from more than 400 entries. Three Canadian entrants were finalists in the contest: first runner up – Steve Chartrand, Stevo Design, Devon, Alta; second runner up – Dave Dufaux, Mobile Image, Laval, Que.; and one of three third runners up – Florin Gavriluta, Benex, Inc., Toronto, Ont. Brian McLeod, managing director for Roland’s Color Products Division, said “the response to the contest was overwhelming and the level of skill and creativity among entries was outstanding by every measure.” Winners were selected through a rigorous judging process that evaluated entries for their creativity, effectiveness and technical quality. To view contest finalists and the entire gallery of entries, visit www.rolanddga.com/wrap. And, if you’re interested in refining your vehicle-graphics skills, go to www.rolanddga.com/training to find out about upcoming Roland University Wraps vehicle-decorating classes.

Subm i t i ndus t r y news to k [email protected].

happenings

Industry News

34 | imageMakers

Join Us this June at theWestern Canadian Imagemakers Trade ShowJune 8 & 9, 2007Best Western Richmond Hotel &Convention Centre, Richmond, BC.

• Trade Show• Seminars• Golf Tournament• Networking Opportunities

If you plan to attend or exhibit go towww.sac-ace.ca for more details

nATionAlThe CONSAC “Imagemakers 2007” show is to be held from September 27 to 29, again at the Toronto Congress Centre. The golf tournament will be held at Lionhead Golf and Country Club.

The National Board of Directors approved two new initiatives at its meeting held during CONSAC 2006. A western Canadian sign show will be held in Richmond, B.C. on June 8 and 9, 2007, with a golf tournament at the Green Acres Golf Club on June 7. There will be approximately 60 booths and a slate of educational seminars.

Visit the SAC website, at www.sac-ace.ca, for more details.The second initiative the Board approved was the creation of a charitable

foundation that will award bursaries to the employees and children of employees of SAC member companies who are continuing their education at a college or university. This foundation will raise funds through donations, auctions and other means. At this point in time, the board is planning to award 15 people $1,500 at next year’s CONSAC. More information will be posted on the SAC website.

News Views&


One of the most important benefits of membership in the Sign Association of Canada – and perhaps the most overlooked – is that of networking. Although it is always possible to make industry contacts in the everyday course of running one’s business, by far the most effective and most efficient – and, often also the most enjoyable – means of “connecting” is through association membership. Have a look at the number of networking opportunities that may be yours as a SAC member:l SAC Class 1 members (sign manufacturers and

installers) automatically receive membership in the U.S.-based International Sign Association and, therefore, are listed in ISA’s business directory. American sign operations looking to sub-contract work locally will usually refer to the directory to find a suitable contact.

l Listing in our own SAC membership directory offers a similar opportunity right here in Canada.

l SAC’s website search engine will give immediate access to detailed information about your own business to interested parties, and allows you access to valuable information on potential working partners.

l National and regional association events are prime opportunities to make valuable business contacts and forge face-to-face relationships. Golf tournaments, chapter and annual general meetings, seminars and trade shows are all great venues that should be attended and supported as much as possible to maximize their networking potential.

l Board membership and volunteering at chapter events often enable individuals to “put a face to a name” and provide an opportunity to “talk shop.” Your SAC board and management team are

always striving to create and facilitate means and methods to provide greater communication between member businesses, but to be totally

effective we need your support and involvement as active members. Watch Imagemakers for news of upcoming events, and don’t forget to visit our website regularly for updates.

Remember, it’s called “net-working” not “net-wishing,” so get involved and watch your business grow! iM

Featured SAC Membership Benefit

News Views&

36 | imageMakers

1 Stop Signs & PrintIrene Liem14 Fishlock StreetAjax, ON L1Z 1G9Tel: 905-428-7446Fax: 905-428-7232E-mail: [email protected]: www.signsandprint.ca

Altuglas InternationalVincent Casmiri2000 Market StPhiladelphia, PA 19103 USATel: 215-419-7898Fax: 215-419-5512E-mail: [email protected]: www.plexiglas.com

Applied DesignsKimberly Larmond96 Dawson RoadGuelph, ON N1H 1A8Tel: 519-766-4041Fax: 519-489-2771E-mail: [email protected]: www.applied-designs.com

Arts & LettresIsabelle Tremblay90 Pointe-LangloisLaval, QC H7L 3M5Tel: 450-963-0647Fax: 450-963-6049E-mail: [email protected]

Atelier de l’affichagePeter Nicolajev3125 boulevard IndustrielLaval, QC H7L 4P8Tel: 450-975-7373Fax: 450-975-7373E-mail: [email protected]

Consolidated Sign & Lighting Services Inc. Larry Eveland23 Victoria Avenue EastCrediton, ON N0M 1M0Tel: 519-234-6721Fax: 519-234-6434Toll Free: 800-265-7035E-mail: [email protected]: www.consolidatedsign.com

Cosmex GraphicsEnzo Digneo390 DeslauriersSt-Laurent, QC H4N 1V8Tel: 514-745-3446Fax: 514-745-3449E-mail: [email protected]: www.cosmexgraphics.com

D & D IndustriesSylvain Desjardins1390-A, de CoulombBoucherville, QC J4B 7J4Tel: 450-641-9258Fax: 450-417-8859E-mail: [email protected]: www.ddindustrie.com

Direct Sign WholesaleJohn Lewis1100 E. 64th AveDenver, CO 80229 USATel: 866-286-1462Fax: 303-286-1534Toll Free: 866-278-5543E-mail: [email protected]: www.directsignwholesale.com

Display 3000Mike Mikhail5004 Timberlea BIvd, Unit 4Mississauga, ON L4W 5C5Tel: 905-282-9002Fax: 905-282-9572Toll Free: 877-382-9002E-mail: [email protected]: www.display-3000.com

Gagnon Image inc. Dany Lévesque70-F, IndustrielleRimouski, QC G5M 1B1Tel: 418-722-9291Fax: 418-723-4448E-mail: [email protected]: www.gagnonimage.com

In-House SolutionsEd House240 Holiday Inn Dr, Unit ACambridge, ON N3C 3X4Tel: 519-658-1471Fax: 519-658-1335E-mail: [email protected]: www.inhousesolutions.com

Izone Imaging Inc.Jon Van Home1493 Route 138, PO Box 1971Huntingdon, QC J0S 1H0Tel: 450-264-5204Fax: 450-264-5097Toll Free: 877-848-4746E-mail: [email protected]: www.izoneimaging.com

N.C. Pestill Ltd. Dan Pestill350 Speedvale Avenue West, Unit 1Guelph, ON N1H 7M7Tel: 519-821-1980Fax: 519-821-7317

Toll Free: 866-821-1980E-mail: [email protected]: www.ncpestill.com

Nazdar CanadaPatrick Handscombe925 Roselawn AveToronto, ON M6B 1B7Tel: 416-789-5111Fax: 416-789-0474Toll Free: 800-463-5111E-mail: [email protected]: www.nazdar.com

Nesco Sales & RentalsChris Claghorn3112 East State Road 124Bluffton, IN 46714 USATel: 260-824-6340Fax: 260-824-6352Toll Free: 800-252-0043E-mail: [email protected]: www.nescosales.com

Omer DeSerresJean-Pierre Marchand5640 boul. TimminsVille Saint-Laurent, QC H4R 2K9Tel: 514-905-2001Fax: 514-905-2004Website: www.omerdeserres.com

Paul’s Sign Service LimitedPaul2166 Cordukes RoadKingston, ON K7L 4V4Tel: 613-530-5003Fax: 613-544-8393Toll Free: 888-324-5003E-mail: [email protected]

Peintures PMSFrancoise Breault507 rue des SablesQuébec, QC G1J 2Y1Tel: 418-529-0311Fax: 418-529-3056E-mail: [email protected]

Sign AdviceRobert Manning28 Ball Point Road, RR1Little Britain, ON K0M 2C0Tel: 705-786-0327Fax: 705-786-3112Toll Free: 877-794-7684E-mail: [email protected]: www.signadvice.com

Signboom Industries LimitedLeonard Moore18747 96 Ave, Unit 3Surrey, BC V4N 3P5

Tel: 604-881-0363Fax: 604-677-6652E-mail: [email protected]: www.signboom.com

Signalisation OctaSerge Rivard110 boulevard IndustrielBoucherville, QC J4B 2X2Tel: 450-641-0362Fax: 450-641-1774E-mail: [email protected]: www.signalisatonocta.com

Spicers, Div. of PaperlinX Canada Ltd.Dave Cohoon29 Gurholt DrDartmouth, NS B3B 1J8Tel: 902-468-5585Fax: 902-468-5434Toll Free: 800-565-1621E-mail: [email protected]: www.spicers.ca

Supra SignalisationRéal Benoit1377 des Rouges GorgesSt-Jérôme, QC J7Z 6Z4Tel: 450-712-7446Fax: 450-438-5610E-mail: [email protected]

TechniLite Systems Inc.Len Bangma910 High StPeterborough, ON K9J 5R2Tel: 705-741-5101Fax: 705-741-5202Toll Free: 800-730-5853E-mail: [email protected]: www.technilite.com

Trans-Art Holdings Ltd.Hok Lin Man1075 1st St W, Unit 105North Vancouver, BC V7P 3T4Tel: 604-990-6742Fax: 604-990-6743Toll Free: 877-994-6824E-mail: [email protected]: www.displayworld.ca

US LED, Ltd.Ron Farmer1800 Bering, Suite 700Houston, TX 77057 USATel: 713-972-9191Fax: 713-972-9393Toll Free: 866-972-9191E-mail: [email protected]: www.us-led.com

New MembersNews Views& Welcome


A comment from Robert Bronk, Executive Director of the Sign Association of CanadaImageMakers magazine is the official voice of the Sign Association of Canada, and we are pleased with the partnership we now have with MediaEdge Publications. We are interested in your input and suggestions; members now have the opportunity to be heard. We are looking for membership contribution in several regular features that will appear in each edition:

l Industry Newsl Featured Memberl Featured Projectl Letters to the Editor

Plus, if you have an issue or topic you want to see in the magazine, let us know.

It’s your magazine; partner with us as we raise members’, as well as the sign industry’s, profile through effective and creative communication.

Bob BronkExecutive DirectorSign Association of Canada

Calendar of EventsMaritime Round-Up 2: Letterhead Meet

LetterheadsIrishtown, New Brunswick

August 3-5, 2007

Consac “Imagemakers” 2007Sign Association of CanadaToronto Congress Centre

Toronto, OntarioSeptember 27-29, 2007

IFAI Expo 2007Las Vegas, Nevada, USA

October 3 - 5, 2007

SGIA ‘07Orlando, Florida, USAOctober 24 - 27, 2007

Graphics Canada 2007Toronto, Ontario, CanadaNovember 8 - 10, 2007

Sign World USA 2007Atlantic City, New Jersey, USA

November 29 - December 1, 2007

News Views&

38 | imageMakers

Marketplace

42 | imageMakers

Listings by Company Name...... 44-57

Listings by Category ....................58-?

Architectural

Acid/Metal Etched Signs ......................

ADA Signs ............................................

Architectural Signage...........................

Directories/Wayfinding .........................

Disability Signage.................................

Electronic/Interactive ...........................

Engineering ..........................................

Environmental Graphic Design ............

Exit/Safety/Traffic .................................

Kiosk .....................................................

Modular/Stock ......................................

Monuments ..........................................

Plaques & Tablets .................................

Post & Panel Signs ...............................

Stand-Offs: Rod & Cable Systems .......

Supply ..................................................

Awnings/Outdoor

Advertising ...........................................

Awning Signs .......................................

Backlit Posters .....................................

Billboard Frames ..................................

Billboards .............................................

Bus Wraps ............................................

Decals ..................................................

Frames/Tubing .....................................

Inflatable's ............................................

Lawn Sign and Post Signs ...................

Street Level Ads ...................................

Supplier ................................................

Vehicle Graphics...................................

CAS Systems/Software .....................

3-D Design ...........................................

Business Office Management .............

CAD ......................................................

Clip Art ..................................................

CNC Routers .........................................

Computer Systems ..............................

Cutting-Plotter ......................................

Digital Imaging .....................................

Electrostatic Printers ............................

Engravers .............................................

Engraving Software .............................

Estimating ............................................

Inkjet Printers .......................................

Laser Engravers ...................................

Neon Pattern Making ...........................

Plug-Ins ................................................

Pricing ..................................................

RIP/Colour Management .....................

Scanners/Digitizers ..............................

Thermal Printers ..................................

UV Flatbed Printers ..............................

Digital Imaging

Banners ................................................

Design Service .....................................

Flatbed .................................................

Grand Format .......................................

Inkjet Inks .............................................

Inkjet Printers .......................................

Printing Service ....................................

Vehicle Graphics...................................

Wide Format .........................................

Electronic Message/Displays

Control Animation Software .................

Electro-Mechanical ..............................

Incandescent ........................................

Jumbo TV .............................................

LED/OLED .............................................

Projection Systems ..............................

Time & Temperature Displays .............

Fabrication & Installation Equipment

Acrylic ...................................................

ADA Sign Making Equipment ..............

Adhesives .............................................

Airbrush Equipment/Supplies ..............

Aluminum .............................................

Banners ................................................

Bird Repellents .....................................

Blades/Knives ......................................

Brushes ................................................

Carving Tools ........................................

Channel Letters ....................................

Cleaning Supplies ................................

Coatings ...............................................

Cranes & Aerial ....................................

Custom Logos ......................................

Cutting-Plotter ......................................

Decals ..................................................

Die Cutting Equipment .........................

Digitizing Hardware ..............................

Embossing Equipment .........................

Engravers/Equipment ..........................

Equipment Rental.................................

Extrusions .............................................

Fabrics ..................................................

Florescent Materials ............................

Foam Cutting/Hot-Wire ........................

Gilding Materials & Supplies ................

Gluers ...................................................

Guillotine Cutters ..................................

Heat Guns.............................................

Heat Transfer Equipment & Materials..

Inks/Toners ...........................................

Ladders & Scaffolds .............................

Ladders/Buckets/Trucks ......................

Laminates ............................................

Letters ..................................................

Letter-Trim ............................................

Magnetic ..............................................

Masking Materials ...............................

Metal Fabricating Equipment ...............

Paint .....................................................

Panel Saws ..........................................

Paper ....................................................

Personal Robotic Systems ...................

Pinstripping Tools .................................

Plasma Cutting Systems ......................

Plastics .................................................

Polycarbonate ......................................

Polyethylene .........................................

Pouncing ..............................................

PVC .......................................................

Roller Coaters .......................................

Rotator/Rotator Signs ...........................

Routers & Accessories .........................

Sandblasting ........................................

Seaming Equipment ............................

Sign Blanks ..........................................

Sign Board ............................................

Sign Cabinets & Cases.........................

Sign Faces ............................................

Sign Stakes ..........................................

Slitting Equipment ................................

Spray Painting ......................................

Steel .....................................................

Stud Weld .............................................

Sublimation-Transfer ...........................

Tape & Accessories ..............................

Vinyl ......................................................

Vinyl Converters ...................................

Wood ....................................................

Faces

Custom Moulded..................................

Flexible .................................................

Illuminated............................................

Reflective ..............................................

b u y e r S ' g u i d e 2 0 0 7T A b l e o f C o n T e n T S


Films

Clear .....................................................

Colour ...................................................

Masking ...............................................

Pressure-Sensitive ...............................

Translucent ...........................................

Installation Hardware

Anchors ................................................

Clamps .................................................

Fasteners ..............................................

Frames .................................................

Grommets/Washers .............................

Poles .....................................................

Posts .....................................................

Pylons ...................................................

Transformers ........................................

Letters

Channel ................................................

Fluorescent ..........................................

Foam Core ............................................

Manufacturer .......................................

Metal ....................................................

Plastics .................................................

Wood ....................................................

Lighting/Neon

Controllers ............................................

Crossfire's/Torches ..............................

Electrodes ............................................

Fixtures .................................................

Gases ...................................................

GTO Cable ............................................

Lamp Holders .......................................

Lamps/Lighting/Backlighting ...............

LED Lighting .........................................

LEDs .....................................................

Manufacturer .......................................

Mercury Injectors .................................

Power Supplies ....................................

Simulated Neon ...................................

Transformers ........................................

Tube Supports ......................................

Tubes ....................................................

Vacuum Processing Equipment ..........

Point-of-Purchase (POP)

POP Signage ........................................

Trade Exhibit Displays ..........................

Professional Services

Occupational Health & Safety ..............

Sign Service and Installation Services

Screenprinting

Awnings ...............................................

Blockout ...............................................

Clamps .................................................

Decorating Equipment/Supplies ..........

Dying Equipment..................................

Equipment ............................................

Fabrics ..................................................

Feeders.................................................

Finishing Equipment/Supplies .............

Frames .................................................

Inks/Coating .........................................

Inks/Toners ...........................................

Presses .................................................

Screen Making & Materials ................

Screen Washing/Reclaiming ................

Sign Equipment/Supplier Software .....

Squeegees/Blades ...............................

Stencil ...................................................

Stencil Film ...........................................

Stretching Equipment ..........................

Supplier ................................................

Test/Instrument/

Quality Control Equipment ...................

Wholesaler ...........................................

Sign Materials &

Components/Substrates

Acrylic ...................................................

Adhesives .............................................

Air Filters ..............................................

Aluminum .............................................

Banners ................................................

BetaSol: Concrete Base .......................

Brushes ................................................

Channel Letters ....................................

Cleaning Supplies ................................

Clocks ...................................................

Coatings ...............................................

Concrete Bases/Slabs ..........................

Digital Print Media ................................

Dimension Hard Coat & Sculpting Epoxy

Distributor .............................................

Edge Lit Signs ......................................

Electrical Trench ...................................

Extrusions .............................................

Fabrics ..................................................

Fasteners ..............................................

Fiberglass .............................................

Flags & Pennants .................................

Florescent Materials ............................

Foam Board Cutters .............................

Gilding Materials & Supplies ................

Gluers ...................................................

Heat Guns.............................................

Inks/Toners ...........................................

Laminates ............................................

Large Format ......................................

Large Format Digital Printer Sales .......

Letters ..................................................

Letter-Trim ............................................

Magnetic ..............................................

Masking Materials ...............................

Menu Boards ........................................

Multi-Substrate ....................................

Paint .....................................................

Paper ....................................................

Plastics .................................................

Polycarbonate ......................................

Polyethylene .........................................

Premask ...............................................

Protective Packaging ...........................

PVC .......................................................

Racks ...................................................

Reader Boards .....................................

Rotary ...................................................

Rotator/Rotator Signs ...........................

Sandblasting Signs Wholesaler ...........

Sign Blanks ..........................................

Sign Board ............................................

Sign Cabinets & Cases.........................

Sign Faces ............................................

Sign Stakes ..........................................

Steel .....................................................

Supplier ................................................

Tape & Accessories ..............................

Trade Label Supplier ............................

Trimmers ..............................................

Vinyl ......................................................

Wiring & Supplies .................................

Wood ....................................................

Company Index ....................................

b u y e r S ' g u i d e 2 0 0 7T A b l e o f C o n T e n T S

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A.R. Monteith Inc. 2615 Wharton Glen Avenue Mississauga, ON L4X 2B1 Phone: .........................................(905) 270-0311Toll: ..............................................(877) 276-4657Fax: ..............................................(905) 270-0160Email: [email protected] Website: www.armonteith.com Contact: John Underwood, Sales Manager A manufacturer of “Pz0” Digital Printing inks and liquid topcoats for large and grand-format printers, Inks for Mimaki JV3, HP5000/5500, Vutek UltraVu, Mutoh Toucan, Grand Jet, DGI, etc.

A.W.T. World Trade, Inc. 4321 North Knox Avenue Chicago, IL 60641-1909 Phone: .........................................(773) 777-7100Fax: .............................................(773) 777-0909Email: [email protected] Website: www.awt-gpi.com Contact: Michael Green, President Miami, FL .....................................(305) 887-7500Oshkosh, WI ..................................(920) 230-7100Complete manufacturing source for screen printing equipment, supplies, parts & remanufactured machines. These include manual/automatic graphic machines, U.V. and other dryers, screenmaking equipment, drying racks, squeegees/squeegee sharpeners, screen cleaning systems, conveyors, exposing units, color mixers, vacuum tables, frames, mesh, tapes, hinges, adhesives, mesh stretchers, spatulas, and personnel cleaning systems.

Abernethy & Sons Clockmakers 146 Gormley Road West Richmond Hill, ON L4E 1A2 Phone: .........................................(905) 887-5327Fax: ..............................................(905) 887-2195Email: [email protected] Website: www.abernethys.com Contact: Phil Abernethy, General Manager Public Clockmakers. Complete Clocks, Equipment Suppliers, Designers and Fabricators. Movements, Hands, Dials and Control Equipment for clocks 2’ to 22’ diameter. Exterior or Interior sites. Since 1963.

Abracadabra Signs/Magic Sculp & Magic Smooth 104 Stanley Street Ayr, ON N0B 1E0 Phone: .........................................(519) 632-5220Fax: .............................................(519) 632-7995Email: [email protected] Website: www.abracadabrasigns.com Contact: Steve Thomas Greer

Accenta Display Corp. 5815 Coopers Avenue Mississauga, ON L4Z 1R9 Phone: .........................................(905) 890-8899Fax: .............................................(905) 568-4149Email: [email protected] Website: www.accenta.com

Access Imaging Inc. 89 Tycos Drive, Unit 101 Toronto, ON M6B 1W3 Phone: .........................................(416) 789-5342Toll: ..............................................(866) 789-5542Fax: .............................................(416) 789-4425Email: [email protected] Website: www.access-imaging.com Contact: Mark Sutor, V.P. Sales & Marketing

Acme Neon & Plastic Sign Supplies Ltd. 6350 Viscount Road Mississauga, ON L4V 1H3 Phone: .........................................(905) 672-0007Toll: ..............................................(800) 233-8634Fax: .............................................(905) 672-0104Email: [email protected] Website: www.acmesignsupplies.com Contact: Robert Craig Burnaby, BC ..................................(604) 421-3332Boucherville, QC ..............................(450) 449-9441

Acme neon et plastique 125 Chemin du Tremblay, Suite 400 Boucherville, QC J4B 7K4 Phone: .........................................(450) 449-9441Toll: ..............................................(800) 267-2263Fax: .............................................(450) 449-9118Email: [email protected] Website: www.acmesignsupplies.com Contact: Gaetan Ruel

Acrylco Manufacturing Ltd. 105-150 Crawfoot Crescent North West, Suite 803 Calgary, AB T3G 3T2 Phone: .........................................(403) 547-6690Fax: .............................................(403) 547-4549Email: [email protected] Website: www.acrylco.com Contact: Jeff Raby

Advance Corp 8200 97th Street South Cottage Grove, MN 55016 Phone: .........................................(651) 771-9297Toll: ..............................................(800) 328-9451Fax: .............................................(651) 771-2121Email: [email protected] Website: www.advancecorp.com Contact: Kathy Wilson Manufacturer of ADA signs & custom products since 1941. Materials include but are not limited to Magnesium, Zinc, Photopolymer, Raster Braille, Engraved, Resin Casting, Digital Graphics, Glass, Frames, and wood. Donor plaques in Zinc, Brass & Bronze. ReplicaFinish™ - a patented process for a first surface finish that is durable & allows for images to be incorporated onto the background of our one-piece signs.

Advantage Graphic Supplies 2800 John Street, Unit 14 Markham, ON L3R 0E2 Phone: .........................................(905) 477-8884Fax: .............................................(905) 477-4103Email: [email protected] Website: www.advantagegraphic.com Contact: Mazin Michaels

AgiLight, Inc. 3669 Porter Henderson Trail San Angelo, TX 76905 Phone: .........................................(325) 482-0200Toll: ..............................................(866) 482-0203Fax: .............................................(325) 486-8370Email: [email protected] Website: www.agilight.com Contact: Blake Vincent, VP Sales & Marketing

Airflow Signs Inc. 47 Lucy Avenue Toronto, ON M1L 1A1 Phone: .........................................(416) 698-1599Toll: ..............................................(800) 394-8024Fax: .............................................(416) 698-3832Email: [email protected] Website: www.cartopsigns.com Contact: Greg Gajdacs


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AKZO Nobel Coating Inc. 5555 Spalding Drive Norcross, GA 30092 Phone: .........................................(770) 798-8618Fax: .............................................(770) 246-4619Email: [email protected] Website: www.signfinishes.com Contact: Alain Piche Akzo Nobel provides Grip-Gard® plus, a high solids polyurethane enamel with outstanding durability and exceptional application properties, available in thousands of colors and in any desired gloss level. Grip-Gard® Plus provides both time and material savings making it the best value in the coatings market. Grip-Flex® is an acrylic translucent coating and is the industry standard for back-lit signage.

Alcan Composites USA Inc. PO Box 1839 Statesville, NC 28687 Phone: .........................................(704) 838-7041Fax: .............................................(704) 881-0840Email: [email protected] Website: www.alcancompositesusa.com Contact: Sandy Roberts

Algoma Banner Inc. 165 Drive-In Road Sault Ste Marie, ON P6B 5X5 Phone: .........................................(705) 254-1331Toll: ..............................................(800) 461-1331Fax: .............................................(888) 461-1263Email: [email protected] Website: www.algomabanner.com Vinyl banner blanks in 23 colours. Supersmooth double face and vinyl coated nylon available. Mini Roll Stock, tuff tape and Enam-L-Koat.

All Graphic Supplies & Signmaking Systems 6691 Edwards Boulevard Mississauga, ON L5T 2H8 Phone: .........................................(905) 795-2610Toll: ..............................................(800) 501-4451Fax: .............................................(905) 795-2690Email: [email protected] Website: www.allgraphicsupplies.com Contact: Chris Desouza, Co-Owner All Graphic Supplies is a national supplier of Roland Printers, Printer/Cutters, Vinylcutters, Service & Support. We offer a complete range of imaging ink, media, accessories, Laminators, On-Going Training. Head office in Mississauga, offices in Coquitlam, BC, Calgary, AB, Dartmouth, NS and Trinidad, Caribbean

Allanson International 33 Cranfield Road Toronto, ON M4R 3H2 Phone: .........................................(416) 755-1191Toll: ..............................................(800) 278-0907Fax: .............................................(416) 752-6717Email: [email protected] Website: www.allanson.com Contact: Alan Middleton, Sales Manager

Altuglas International 2000 Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19103 Phone: .........................................(215) 419-7898Fax: .............................................(215) 419-5512Email: [email protected] Website: www.plexiglas.com Contact: Vince Casmirri

Alumigraph 302 Commerce Drive Exton, PA 19341 Toll: ..............................................(866) 388-2542Fax: .............................................(610) 363-6739Email: [email protected] Website: www.alumigraph.com Contact: Laura Lathan

American Biltrite Inc.105 Whittendale Drive Moorestown, NJ 08057 Phone: .........................................(856) 778-0700Fax: .............................................(888) 224-6325Email: [email protected] Website: www.abitape.com Contact: Brenda Brooks Manufacturing of TransferRite ULTRA & ULTRA Clear brand application tapes and premasks for the sign, screen and digital imaging markets, ProtecRite Digital for your print protection needs, StencilRite paint mask for signage & container marking, 1,500 clear film series and pallet mask for the textile industry. American Biltrite manufactures all of its products under ISO 9001:2000 standard (ISO 9001 since 1993). For more information visit us at www.abitape.com or email us at [email protected].

Ancarr Industrial Fabrics 360 Sovereign Road London, ON N6M 1A8 Phone: .........................................(519) 453-0270Fax: .............................................(519) 453-0272Email: [email protected] Website: www.ancarr.com Contact: Rick Geelan

Aquinas Graphics 1251 Gorham Street, Unit 10 Newmarket, ON L3Y 8Y6 Phone: .........................................(905) 836-9750Fax: .............................................((905) 836-9565

Arete Corporation 1870 West 64th Lane, Suite E Denver, CO 80221 Phone: .........................................(303) 531-7534Toll: ..............................................(800) 728-1453Fax: .............................................(303) 216-2757Email: [email protected] Website: www.aretecorp.com Contact: Michelle Dobbs


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b u y e r S ' g u i d e 2 0 0 7Argile serigraphie et numerique 9900 boul. Du Golf Anjou, QC H1J 2Y7 Phone: .........................................(514) 323-6767Fax: .............................................(514) 323-0684Email: [email protected] Website: www.argile.ws Contact: Pierre Lachapelle

Aristocrat Shade Products 80 Riviera Drive Markham, ON L3R 5M1 Phone: .........................................(905) 477-8766Toll: ..............................................(800) 267-4233Fax: .............................................(905) 477-8670Email: [email protected] Website: www.aristocratshadeproducts.com Commercial, canopy and retractable patio awnings. Anodized aluminum frames with staple system. 3M Scotchcal applied to acrylics with Sunbrella SGS-100 machine.

Arlon, Inc. 2811 South Harbor Boulevard Santa Ana, CA 92704 Phone: .........................................(714) 540-2811Fax: .............................................(714) 431-4330Email: [email protected] Website: www.arlon.com Contact: Kim Jones

AS&G Lettering Systems Inc. 11 Canadian Road, Unit 6 Toronto, ON M1R 5G1 Phone: .........................................(416) 285-8531Toll: ..............................................(800) 542-8531Fax: ...................(416) 285-8971/(800) 265-5047Email: [email protected] Website: www.nexussign.com Contact: Maureen Kalmykow

Artcal Graphics 779 Industrial Road London, ON N5V 3N5 Phone: .........................................(519) 453-6010Fax: .............................................. (519) 453-3617

AXYZ Automation, Inc. 5330 South Service Road Burlington, ON L7L 5L1 Phone: .........................................(905) 634-4940Toll: ..............................................(800) 361-3408Fax: .............................................(905) 634-4966Email: [email protected] Website: www.axyz.com For more than 18 years, AXYZ Automation has been the premier manufacturer of CNC routing systems for the Sign and Graphics Industry. Diverse materials processed include plastics, aluminum, foam, MDF and more. Options include AXYZ ICS for digital print cutting, toolchangers, vacuum hold down systems and more. Made in Canada with Sales and Service in locations across the country, and around the world.

BASF Canada 100 Milverton Drive, 5th Floor Mississauga, ON L5R 4H1 Phone: .........................................(289) 360-6117Toll: ..............................................(800) 268-9920Fax: .............................................(289) 360-6004Email: [email protected] Website: www.basf.ca Contact: Mark Huisman More than the best paint, the best support. We offer the finest coatings available for the specialty markets. We offer proven customer satisfaction programs, eBusiness solutions, training, warranty programs, colour-matching tools and much more.

Canadian Signcrafters Supply 75580 Wildwood Line South Bayfield, ON N0M 1G0 Phone: .........................................(519) 565-5500Fax: .............................................(519) 565-5553Email: [email protected] Website: www.signcraftersupply.com Contact: Peter Payne

CanFab Products Ltd. 12819 144th Street Edmonton, AB T5L 4R6 Phone: .........................................(780) 451-4341Fax: .............................................(780) 452-0159Email: [email protected] Website: www.canfabproducts.com Contact: Greg McFadden

Canuck Technologies Inc. 670 Deslauriers Montreal, QC H4N 1W5 Phone: .........................................(514) 745-0132Fax: .............................................(514) 745-2014Email: [email protected] Website: www.canucktechnologies.ca Contact: Al Proulx Canuck Technologies is a sign specialist with an extensive product line ranging from CNC routers, lasers, UV flatbed printers and hot/cold laminators. Our range of models will meet your required application and budget. Call 866-922-6825 (9CANUCK) or visit our website at www.canucktechnologies.ca for professional assistance.

CAO Group, Inc. 8683 S. 700 West Sandy, UT 84070 Phone: .........................................(801) 495-5536Fax: .............................................(801) 256-9287Email: [email protected] Contact: Jennifer Baker CAO Group, Inc., under the direction of owner, president and CEO Dr. Densen Cao, PhD, offers design, integration and manufacturing of medical, dental, and forensic devices, optoelectronic components, signage, and lighting products. Corporate headquarters, R & D and medical/dental manufacturing facilities, which are ISO 13485 certified, are in West Jordan (Salt Lake City) UT. The company also owns low cost medical and optoelectronic/electronic manufacturing facilities in China, which are ISO 9001 and TS 16949 certified. Detailed information about CAO Group and its products is at www.caogroup.com.



CedarWorks Signs Inc. 946590 Township Road, RR 1 Platteville, ON N0J 1S0 Phone: .........................................(519) 684-7237Toll: ..............................................(888) 483-0428Fax: .............................................(519) 684-6830Email: [email protected] Website: www.cedarworkssigns.com Contact: Marketing Manager

Channelume/Let-R-Edge Co. 4206 Main Street, Suite A Union Gap, WA 98903-0046 Phone: .........................................(509) 452-9648Toll: ..............................................(800) 654-9247Fax: .............................................(509) 575-1478Email: [email protected] Website: www.letredge.com Contact: David Servine

CLARKE SYSTEMS 1857 Walnut Street Allenton, PA 18104 Phone: .........................................(610) 434-9889Fax: .............................................(610) 434-9868Email: [email protected] Website: www.CLARKESYSTEMS.com Contact: Joann Kelly Clarke Systems is a full-range provider of directories and architectural sign products and components for interior and exterior identity and wayfinding applications, including the internationally-recognized Slatz and Info Panel modular sign systems. In Canada, our products are exclusively distributed by ACME Neon & Plastics Supplies, phone them at 905-672-0007.

Click Electronique 104 de la Sentinelle Blainville, QC J7C 5K7 Phone: .........................................(514) 599-0311Fax: .............................................(450) 433-2269Email: [email protected] Website: www.clickelectronique.com Contact: Luc Dansereau

Comsign Inc. 16208 116th Avenue Edmonton, AB T5M 3V4 Phone: .........................................(780) 452-9019Fax: .............................................(780) 451-1012Email: [email protected] Website: www.comsign.ca Contact: Laurie Wilkie Custom sign manufacturer, specializing in architectural sign systems and displays. We offer in-stock Standoffs, and wire and rod systems: in-house CNC routing, digital imaging, computer graphics, screen printing, plastic, metal and wood millwork. We can create the total package, or provide the components to make your own.

Cosmex Graphics 390 Deslauriers St-Laurent, QC H4N 1V8 Phone: .........................................(514) 745-3446Fax: .............................................(514) 745-3449Email: [email protected] Website: www.cosmexgraphics.com Contact: Enzo Digneo

Corbin Graphic Supplies 4630 89th Street Edmonton, AB T6E 5H5 Phone: .........................................(780) 439-3344Toll: ..............................................(877) 900-3344Fax: .............................................(780) 439-5544Email: [email protected] Website: www.corbingraphics.com Contact: Blair Corbin

Cranes Unlimited (02) Ltd. PO Box 246 Williamsburg, ON K0G 2H0 Phone: .........................................(613) 448-2006Fax: .............................................(613) 448-2006Email: [email protected] Contact: John Perry

Creative Textile Solutions Ltd. 3681 Kempt Road Halifax, NS B3K 4X6 Phone: .........................................(902) 453-9663Fax: .............................................(902) 453-9626Email: [email protected] Website: www.creativetextilesolutions.com Contact: Paul Aumento

D & D Industries 1390-A, de Coulomb Boucherville, QC J4B 7J4 Phone: .........................................(450) 641-9258Fax: .............................................(450) 417-8859Email: [email protected] Website: www.ddindustrie.com Contact: Sylvain Desjardins

Daktronics Canada 1130 rue Levis, Unit 4 Lachenaie, QC J6W 5S6 Phone: .........................................(450) 492-1003Fax: .............................................(450) 492-6066Email: [email protected] Website: www.daktronicscanada.com Contact: Robert Blyth

Davies Screen Printing 25944 Poplar Hill Road, RR 1 Ailsa Craig, ON N0M 1A0 Phone: .........................................(519) 232-9760Toll: ..............................................(800) 782-3359Fax: .............................................(519) 232-9290Email: [email protected] Website: www.daviesscreenprinting.com Contact: Brad Davies

Delcam Developer of Artcam 3280 Electricity Drive Windsor, ON N8W 5J1 Phone: .........................................(519) 974-8088Toll: ..............................................(877) 335-2261Fax: .............................................(519) 974-8170Email: [email protected] Website: www.delcam.com Contact: Mary Shaw

Direct Sign Wholesale 1100 East 64th Avenue Denver, CO 80229 Phone: .........................................(866) 286-1462Toll: ..............................................(866) 278-5543Fax: .............................................(303) 286-1534Email: [email protected] Website: www.directsignwholesale.com Contact: John Lewis

Display 3000 5004 Timberlea Boulevard, Unit 4 Mississauga, ON L4W 5C5 Phone: .........................................(905) 282-9002Toll: ..............................................(877) 382-9002Email: [email protected] Website: www.display-3000.com Contact: Mike Mikhail An easy to use, smart aluminum extrusion system used for exhibition walls, sign frames, office dividers, store fixtures and more. We supply all extrusions for folding panels, hanging display, glass cabinets and exhibition fabric systems. We have a full line of standard and revolving Rollup and X-banner display in a variety of different sizes. We also supply magnetic strips, PVC, wall mount display and LED signs as per your request.


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Drytac Canada Inc. 220 Caldari Road Concord, ON L4K 4L1 Phone: .........................................(905) 660-1748Toll: ..............................................(800) 353-2883Fax: .............................................(905) 660-1752Email: [email protected] Website: www.drytac.ca Contact: Hayden Kelley Drytac is a manufacturer and distributor of mounting adhesives, laminating films, specialty inkjet media, banner stands and other display hardware. New at Drytac is the expanded JetMounter™ line of cold laminators and Protac® special effect films and adhesives. Drytac also carries a comprehensive line of print finishing accessories for a wide variety of graphic applications.

Duo Canada 905 Gaudette St-Jean-sur-Richeieu, QC J3B 7S7 Phone: .........................................(450) 349-6973Cell: .............................................(514) 898-6912Toll: ..............................................(866) 339-6973Fax: .............................................(450) 349-6913Email: [email protected] Website: www.duodisplay.com Contact: Claude Perrault

Durable Office Products Corp. 850 King Street West, Unit 20 Oshawa, ON L1J 8N5 Phone: .........................................(905) 436-6751Toll: ..............................................(866) 410-3329Fax: .............................................(905) 436-5819Email: [email protected] Website: www.durableofficeproducts.com Contact: Susan Talmey

EGL Company Inc., The 100 Industrial Road Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922 Phone: .........................................(908) 508-1111Fax: .............................................(908) 508-1122Email: [email protected] Website: www.egl-neon.com

E.T. Construction Inc. 1040 Martin Grove Road, Suite 15 Toronto, ON M9W 4W4 Phone: .........................................(416) 241-0092Fax: .............................................(416) 241-0037Website: www.etconstruction.com

East West Plastics & Electric Products Ltd. 1130 Lodestar Road Toronto, ON M3J 3G4 Phone: .........................................(416) 635-6500Fax: .............................................(416) 635-8640Email: [email protected] Website: www.eastwestplastic.com Contact: Al Sigalis

Elite Wholesale Banner 1001 Denison Street, Unit 10 Markham, ON L3R 2Z6 Phone: .........................................(905) 415-9046Toll: ..............................................(877) 367-3548Fax: .............................................(905) 415-5989Email: [email protected] Website: www.elitewholesalebanner.com Contact: Heather Ballantyne Custom banners available in a variety of colours and thicknesses, roll stock, solvent/eco-solvent digital material. Custom finishing available (hems, grommets, poles, pockets, velcro, rope, webbing).

EM Plastic & Electric Products Ltd. 430 Norfinch Drive Downsview, ON M3N 1Y4 Phone: .........................................(416) 665-6111Toll: ..............................................(800) 465-4455Fax: .............................................(416) 665-0323Email: [email protected] Website: www.emplastic.com Contact: Marc Zarboni, General Manager Calgary, AB ..................................(403) 723-2266Edmonton, AB ..............................(780) 413-4688Burnaby, BC .................................(604) 420-5000Winnipeg, MB ..............................(204) 633-5516Dartmouth, NS .............................(902) 438-6610Toronto, ON ..................................(416) 665-6111Montreal, QC ...............................(514) 333-8585

Entreprises Beta-Sol Inc. 216 rue Plante St-Nicolas, QC G7A 1K1 Phone: .........................................(418) 836-4868Cell: .............................................(418) 655-1681Fax: .............................................(418) 836-3491Email: [email protected] Contact: Patrick Gosselin

Ernest Green & Son Ltd. 2395 Skymark Avenue Mississauga, ON L4W 4Y6 Phone: .........................................(905) 629-8999Fax: .............................................(905) 629-3970Email: [email protected] Website: www.ernestgreen.com Contact: Philip Hampson We supply the insight and expertise to have our customers, large and small, make the transition between today and tomorrow. We represent Mutoh, 3M, Onyx, Scanvec, Epson, HP and more.

ExpoSystems Canada 2161 Midland Avenue Scarborough, ON M1P 4T3 Phone: .........................................(416) 291-2932Toll: ................................... (800) 263-EXPO (3976)Fax: .............................................(416) 291-0383Email: [email protected] Website: www.exposystems.com Contact: Nigel Vanoe-Lousada Exhibit manufacturer/supplier of modular, folding, and pop-up exhibits, banner stands and literature stands. Services include: design, graphics, consultation, installation, dismantling and storage. Customers can buy, rent or lease. 40+ years industry experience. Gold Consumers Choice Award recipient for Business Excellence.

Eye Catch Signs Limited 2482 Maynard Street Halifax, NS B3K 3V4 Phone: .........................................(902) 423-3309Toll: ..............................................(888) 840-1997Fax: .............................................(902) 423-6144Email: [email protected] Website: www.eyecatchsigns.com Contact: Elizabeth Collis

Fiber Optic Technologies 431 Wyecroft Road Oakville, ON L6K 2H2 Phone: .........................................(905) 901-9499Toll: ..............................................(877) 949-9477Fax: .............................................(905) 901-9599Email: [email protected] Website: www.fiberoptictechnologies.com Contact: Jill King



Figra North America 89 West Road Londonderry, NH 03053 Toll: ..............................................(866) 344-7262Fax: .............................................(866) 344-7264Email: [email protected] Website: www.figra.com Contact: Bob Small

Formashape (Div. Whitewater Composites Ltd.) 9505 Haldane Road Kelowna, BC V4V 2K5 Phone: .........................................(250) 766-5152Fax: .............................................(250) 766-3337Email: [email protected] Contact: Garry Ford

France, A Scott Fetzer Company2268 Fairview Boulevard, PO Box 300 Fairview, TN 37062-0300 Phone: .........................................(615) 799-1230Cell: .............................................(615) 400-1192Toll: ..............................................(800) 753-2753Email: [email protected] Website: www.westrimproducts.com Website: www.franceformer.com Contact: Bill Hamm PRODUCTS: Illumination systems for signs and outdoor applications. Includes Ul2161 transformers from 3 kV to 15 kV in all styles. Servicemaster line of self-adjusting transformers for service applications, including the revolutionary NEAT transformer. High output Fluorescent ballasts (standard and electronic) for T12 and T8 lamps ranging in length from 2 to 10 feet per lamp. Reliant T8 lighting system that provides 60,000 hours of maintenance-free illumination. LED based channel letter modules and border tubing. Westrim sign components including GTO, ballast wire, glass housings, tube supports, transformer cans, etc.

FujiFilm Sericol USA Inc. 1101 West Cambridge Drive Kansas City, KS 66103 Phone: .........................................(913) 573-3700Fax: .............................................(913) 342-4752Email: [email protected] Website: www.fujifilmsericol.com Contact: Stacey Murphy

Gandinnovations 941 Isom Road San Antonio, TX 78216 Phone: .........................................(210) 344-9566Cell: .............................................(210) 389-4139Fax: .............................................(210) 344-9569Email: [email protected] Website: www.gandinnovations.com Contact: Sarah Gartner

Gateway Signs & Service 732 John Street North Bay, ON P1B 2N3 Phone: .........................................(705) 476-7264Fax: .............................................(705) 476-9594Email: [email protected] Contact: Rick Vezina

GE Polymershapes 16536 117th Avenue Edmonton, AB T5M 3W2 Phone: .........................................(780) 451-1650Toll: ..............................................(800) 661-9322Fax: .............................................(780) 454-6025Email: [email protected] Website: www.gepolymershapes.com Contact: Bob Byttynen

GELcore 6180 Halle Drive Valley View, OH 44125 Phone: .........................................(216) 606-6612Fax: .............................................(216) 606-6599Email: [email protected] Website: www.gelcore.com Contact: Terry Kish, Customer Service

Gemini Canada 373 John Street Neustadt, ON N0G 2M0 Phone: .........................................(519) 799-5952Fax: .............................................(519) 799-5954Email: [email protected] Website: www.signletters.com Contact: Peter Brimmer

George N. Jackson Ltd. 1139 McDermot Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V2 Phone: .........................................(204) 786-3821Fax: .............................................(204) 788-2457Email: [email protected] Website: www.jackson.ca Contact: Reg Gervais

Glotrax Polymers Inc. 259 Mitchell Road, RR 2 Warkworth, ON K0K 3K0 Phone: .........................................(905) 344-1166Fax: .............................................(905) 344-5991Website: www.glotrax.com Contact: Nancy Glover

Gold Leaf Letters 8022 Congress Street Port Richey, FL 34668 Phone: .........................................(727) 849-0036Toll: ..............................................(877) 233-4587Fax: .............................................(727) 849-0036Email: [email protected] Website: www.goldleafletters.com Contact: Mike Facemire Nat’l Acct. Mgr.

Grant Metal Products Ltd. 3949 54th Avenue North East Calgary, AB T3J 3W5 Phone: .........................................(403) 590-8000Cell: .............................................(403) 830-7403Toll: ..............................................(800) 672-6088Fax: .............................................(403) 590-7990Email: [email protected] Website: www.grantmetal.com Contact: Gordon Ringham

Grant Sign Group Inc. 503 Carlingview Drive Toronto, ON M9W 2H2 Phone: .........................................(416) 213-0993Toll: ..............................................(800) 667-4554Fax: .............................................(416) 213-9531Email: [email protected] Website: www.grantsigngroup.com Contact: Steve Gallow/Keith Edwards

Graphic Mart 350 Market Drive Milton, ON L9T 5A4 Phone: .........................................(905) 875-1592Toll: ..............................................(800) 387-0232Fax: .............................................(905) 875-1610Email: [email protected] Website: www.graphicmart.com Contact: Dean Jones

Greenflow Environmental Services 4151 Morris Drive, Units 2-3 Burlington, ON L7L 5L5 Phone: .........................................(905) 333-3004Toll: ..............................................(800) 287-5416Fax: .............................................(905) 333-1306Email: [email protected] Website: www.greenflow.com Contact: Bill Kelly, Sales Mgr. Canadian master distributor for Island Clean Air, the developer/manufacturer of The Duster series of powerful air filtration units. Greenflow is also licensed by the MOE to operate a Waste Disposal Transfer Site and pick up for all the hazardous and non-hazardous waste.


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b u y e r S ' g u i d e 2 0 0 7Gryph Group, The 41 Proton Street South PO Box 856 Dundalk, ON N0C 1B0 Phone: .........................................(519) 923-3883Toll: ..............................................(866) 275-1996Fax: .............................................(519) 923-9131Email: [email protected] Website: www.thegryphgroup.com THE GRYPH GROUP is a Canadian Manufacturer / Distributor of a way finding sign products, under our Division of VISTA CANADA, which are manufactured & warehoused in Canada. Our Head Office and Manufacturing Facility are situated in Dundalk, Ontario.

Hamilton Digital Designs Ltd. 3342 Mainway Drive Burlington, ON L7M 1A7 Phone: .........................................(905) 332-1884Toll: ..............................................(800) 430-8019Fax: .............................................(905) 332-1518Email: [email protected] Website: www.hddltd.com Contact: Alan Wynne Manufacturer of LED Message boards (amber, red, shades, colour), full colour LED video display screens, time/temperature displays, fuel price systems and sport scoreboards. Custom displays are our specialty.

Have Our Plastics Inc. (HOP Inc.) 4-6990 Creditview Road Mississauga, ON L5N 8R9 Phone: .........................................(905) 821-7550Toll: ..............................................(800) 263-5995Fax: ...................(905) 821-7553/(800) 263-5995Email: [email protected] Website: www.hop.ca Contact: Hank Lien Laminators, films, trimmers, shredders, binding machines, bindings, covers, print-grade PVC, brochure/printholders, identification products. Vinyl accessories, menu covers, HOPSYN synthetic paper, POP accessories, shrink wrap supplies.

Hewlett-Packard (Canada) Co. 5150 Spectrum Way Mississauga, ON L4W 5G1 Phone: .........................................(905) 206-3574Toll: ..............................................(800) HP-INVENTFax: .............................................(905) 206-4965Email: [email protected] Website: www.hp.ca Contact: David Plommer Hewlett-Packard (Canada) Co., located in Mississauga, Ontario is a wholly owned subsidiary of California-based Hewlett-Packard Co – a technology solutions provider to consumers, businesses and institutions around the world. HP offers an extensive range of wide format and superwide format printers through its Designjet and Scitex lines.

Hexion Specialty Chemicals 630 Glendale-Milford Road Cincinnati, OH 45215 Phone: .........................................(513) 782-6273Cell: .............................................(614) 607-1510Toll: ..............................................(866) 244-4020Fax: .............................................(513) 782-6326Email: [email protected] Website: www.hexion.com Contact: Paul Lindquist

Hiker Enterprises Ltd. 3375 14th Avenue, Unit 3 Markham ON L3R 0H2 Phone: .........................................(905) 479-5390Fax: .............................................(905) 479-0530Email: [email protected] Website: www.hikereyelets.com Contact: Sam Lin

Holophane Canada Inc. 9040 Leslie Street, Suite 208-211 Richmond Hill, ON L4B 3M4 Phone: .........................................(905) 707-5830Fax: .............................................(905) 707-5751Email: [email protected] Website: www.holophane.com Contact: Jorge Pereira

Hudson Supplies Inc. 2940 Halpern Street Saint-Laurent, QC H4S 1R2 Phone: .........................................(514) 337-5005Toll: ..............................................(888) 599-9959Fax: ...................(514) 332-3383/(866) 341-3383Email: [email protected] Website: www.hudson4supplies.com Contact: Marc Beaudois

Hynek Change Letters Ltd. 205 Norseman Street Toronto, ON M82 2R5 Phone: .........................................(416) 232-2827Toll: ..............................................(800) 387-1902Fax: .............................................(416) 232-2109Email: [email protected] Website: www.hynek.com

iG3 Integrated Graphics 35 Romina Drive Concord, ON L4K 4Z9 Phone: .........................................(905) 760-1616Fax: .............................................(905) 760-9490Email: [email protected] Website: www.ig3.com Contact: Guy Langevin

Image Signs 9304 31st Avenue North West Edmonton, AB T6N 1C4 Phone: .........................................(780) 496-7426Toll: ..............................................(800) 378-5448Fax: .............................................(780) 437-7835Email: [email protected] Website: www.imagesigns.ca Contact: Dan Bussiere

Ink 4 U and Sign Supplies Ltd. 308 Cobequid Road, PO Box 541 Lower Sackville, NS B4C 3G4 Phone: .........................................(902) 864-7879Fax: .............................................(902) 865-6318Email: [email protected] Website: www.ink4u.ca Contact: Alain Pelletier

In-House Solutions 240 Holiday Inn Drive, Unit A Cambridge, ON N3C 3X4 Phone: .........................................(519) 658-1471Fax: .............................................(519) 658-1335Email: [email protected] Website: www.inhousesolutions.com Contact: Ed House

Installation Delorme 10600 Henri-Bourassa East Montreal, QC H1C 1G9 Phone: .........................................(514) 325-5632Toll: ..............................................(866) 325-5632Fax: .............................................(514) 325-8110Email: [email protected] Website: www.installationdelorme.com Contact: Michel Delorme

Keencut Inc. 3560 Pine Grove Avenue, Unit 366 Port Huron, MI 48060 Phone: .........................................(519) 652-0970Toll: .................................. (800) 240-KEEN (5336)Fax: .............................................(519) 652-0396Email: [email protected] Website: www.keencut.com Contact: Dan Doroshenko

Kommerling USA, Inc. 3402 Stanwood Boulevard Huntsville, AL 35811 Phone: .........................................(256) 851-4099Toll: ..............................................(800) 330-2239Fax: .............................................(256) 859-7562Email: [email protected] Website: www.kommerling.com Contact: Harald Unterieser

Kramer Design Associates Ltd. 103 Dupont Street Toronto, ON M5R 1V4 Phone: .........................................(416) 921-1078Fax: .............................................(416) 921-9934Email: [email protected] Website: www.kramer-design.com Contact: Ruth



Laird Plastics 75 Aventura Court Mississauga, ON L5T 2Y6 Phone: .........................................(905) 673-8008Toll: ..............................................(800) 387-4987Fax: .............................................(905) 673-2460Email: [email protected] Website: www.lairdplastics.com Contact: Keith McCartan Calgary, AB ...................................(403) 250-9298Vancouver, BC...............................(604) 888-8331Winnipeg, MB ...............................(204) 632-1136Moncton, NB .................................(506) 857-0004Halifax, NS ....................................(902) 481-3566Ottawa, ON ...................................(613) 247-9518Montreal, QC ................................(514) 354-0707Quebec City, QC ............................(418) 652-7176Laird Plastics, through its multi-national team of over 500 employees, is a leading supplier to the sign industry in North America. Our network of over 50 service centres inventory an extensive product range including such major segments as acrylics, polycarbonates and graphics materials. Our leading brands include Plexiglas, Sintra, Fomecor, Dibond, Gatorfoam, Mactac, Makrolon and Makrofol (Polycarbonate film).

Le Pro du Channel Inc. 11420 4e Avenue Montreal, QC H1E 3A6 Phone: .........................................(514) 494-3636Toll: ..............................................(866) 878-3636Fax: .............................................(514) 494-3883Email: [email protected] Website: www.pro-channel.com

LECIP, USA 14679 Midway Road, Suite 206 Addison, TX 75001-3182 Phone: .........................................(214) 550-6005Fax: .............................................(214) 550-6010Email: [email protected] Website: www.lecipusa.com Contact: Herb Lavender LECIP supplies a full range of UL2161 listed SENTRY neon transformers from 15kV to 5kV and CAVALIER electronic neon power supplies in 4kV and 9kV. All LECIP products feature a 3 year warranty. LECIP products are distributed in Canada by Acme Sign Supplies.

LED, Inc. 1601 Fairview Drive, Unit 22 Carson City, NV 89701 Phone: .........................................(775) 885-1510Fax: .............................................(775) 885-8028Email: [email protected] Website: www.ledinc.biz Contact: Hung-Ta Wen

Les equipements Lefco Inc. 1795 rue Guillet Laval, QC H7L 5B1 Phone: .........................................(514) 389-8256Fax: .............................................(450) 682-0463Email: [email protected] Contact: John Lefebvre

Lumipro Inc. 640 Avenue Lepine Dorval, QC H9P 1G2 Phone: .........................................(514) 633-9320Cell: .............................................(514) 572-0024Fax: .............................................(514) 633-9365Email: [email protected] Website: www.lumipro.com Contact: Guy Vallee

Magnum Magnetics Corporation 801 Masonic Park Road Marietta, OH 45750 Phone: (740) 373-7770 Toll: (800) 258-0991 Fax: (740) 373-2880 Email: [email protected] Website: www.magnummagnetics.com Contact: Sales

Mauco Industries Itee 4115 Cousens St-Laurent, QC H4S 1V6 Phone: .........................................(514) 337-6131Fax: .............................................(514) 337-2125Email: [email protected] Website: www.mauco-ind.com Contact: Claude Payette

MaxMedia Graphic Supplies Inc. 1001 Denison Street, Unit 5 Markham, ON L3R 2Z6 Phone: .........................................(905) 474-9128Fax: .............................................(905) 474-9987Email: [email protected] Website: www.maxmedia1.ca

Micron Fastener, Inc. 246 Clifton Avenue Clifton, NJ 07011 Phone: .........................................(973) 340-8050Toll: ..............................................(800) 923-1022Fax: .............................................(800) 923-1044Email: [email protected] Website: www.grommetmart.com Contact: Bilal Seker Micron offers a wide selection of self piercing grommet dies, hand press grommet machines, electric grommet machines, pneumatic grommet machines, and much more. To shop online please visit us at www.grommetmart.com or call 1-800-923-1022.

Mirtec Canada Inc. 71 Black Road Sault Ste Marie, ON P6A 6J8 Phone: .........................................(705) 946-4248Toll: ..............................................(800) 461-2139Fax: .............................................(705) 946-2478Email: [email protected] Website: www.mirtecit.com Contact: Gary Dumanski ‘We Speak Sign Language’ Division of DOI Dumanski Office Interiors

Mondrian Canada, Inc. 498 Hargrave Street Winnipeg, MB R3A 0X7 Phone: .........................................(204) 943-2400Toll: ..............................................(800) 618-7442Fax: .............................................(204) 946-5906Email: [email protected] Website: www.mondrian.ca Contact: Gordon Huminuk

MultiCam Canada 15-701 Millway Avenue Concord, ON L4K 3S7 Phone: .........................................(905) 738-7954Fax: .............................................(905) 738-2352Website: www.multicam.ca

Munro Fastenings 134 Skyway Avenue Toronto, ON M9W 4Y9 Phone: .........................................(416) 675-1102Fax: .............................................(416) 675-1136Email: [email protected] Website: www.munrofastenings.com Contact: Derek Slorach


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ND Graphics 4309 Steeles Avenue West Downsview, ON M3N 1V7 Phone: .........................................(416) 663-6416Toll: ..............................................(888) 634-7274Fax: .............................................(416) 663-5629Email: [email protected] Website: www.ndgraphics.com Contact: Mark West ND Graphics is Canada’s leading supplier of equipment, materials, and technical solutions to the graphics imaging industries. As such we have earned a reputation for innovation, service excellence and value added partnership. With 9 stocking locations from which to serve, we offer sales, service, technical support, training and financing.

Nazdar Canada 925 Roselawn Ave Toronto, ON M6B 1B7 Phone: .........................................(416) 789-5111Toll: ..............................................(800) 463-5111Fax: .............................................(416) 789-0474Email: [email protected] Website: www.nazdar.com Contact: Patrick Handscombe

Nesco Sales & Rentals 3112 East State Road 124 Bluffton, IN 46714 Phone: .........................................(260) 824-6340Toll: ..............................................(800) 252-0043Fax: .............................................(260) 824-6352Email: [email protected] Website: www.nescosales.com Contact: Chris Claghorn

Neo Tech Industries 1057 Steeles Avenue West PO Box 81623 Toronto, ON M2R 3X1 Phone: .........................................(905) 474-2428Fax: .............................................(905) 474-1293Email: [email protected] Contact: Joon Kim

Nu-Media Display Systems Inc. 165 Matheson Boulevard East, Units 8-9 Mississauga, ON L4Z 3K2 Phone: .........................................(905) 566-0990Fax: .............................................(905) 568-0949Email: [email protected] Website: www.nu-mediadisplays.com Contact: Ron Vankeulen

Océ-Canada Inc. 4711 Yonge Street, Suite 1100 Toronto, ON M2N 6K8 Phone: .........................................(416) 224-5600Toll: ..............................................(800) 668-1945Fax: .............................................(416) 224-5778Email: [email protected] Website: www.oce.ca Contact: Antonina Catalfamo Océ is a world leader in the manufacturing of Wide Format Printing Systems. Our solutions range from stand alone printers and scanners to complete multifunctional systems. Our professional imaging supplies portfolio and award winning service organization provides our customers with unsurpassed quality, reliability and productivity. Océ-Canada has branches in Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver and Montréal. Please visit www.oce.ca for more information.

Oldham Robinson Integrated Technologies Inc. 444 Southcote Road Ancaster, ON L9G 2W3 Phone: .........................................(905) 648-9815Fax: .............................................(905) 648-9639Email: [email protected] Website: www.oldhamrobinson.com Contact: Chris Edgar Established in 1994, Oldham Robinson is a full service, solutions based company serving multiple industries. Today, we are the area leader as your source for technology solutions. If your operations include printing, plotting, engraving, milling/routing, laser, or cutting, then “Get the Competitive Edge!” Authorized distributors of Roland, Graphtec, Xenetech, Camtech, Venture, Cadlink, SA International, DCS, Type 3, and Allen Datagraph.

Omer DeSerres 5640 boul. Timmins Ville Saint-Laurent, QC H4R 2K9 Phone: .........................................(514) 905-2001Fax: .............................................(514) 905-2004Website: www.omerdeserres.com Contact: Jean-Pierre Marchand

ORACAL USA Jacksonville, FL 32250 Phone: .........................................(904) 726-9597Toll: ..............................................(800) ORACAL-1Email: [email protected] Website: www.oracal.com Contact: Steve Stone A division of ORAFOL International, ORACAL USA manufactures and markets a wide range of premium pressure-sensitive films for sign, screen print and digital imaging applications in the United States, Canada, Latin America and the Caribbean. For more information, product samples, or to locate an Authorized ORACAL Distributor, contact ORACAL USA at (800) 672-2251 or visit ORACAL online at www.oracal.com

Osram Sylvania Ltd. 2001 Drew Road Mississauga, ON L5S 1S4 Phone: .........................................(905) 673-6171Fax: .............................................(905) 671-5584Email: [email protected] Website: www.sylvania.com

Outdoor Sign Supply Inc. 10233 IH35 North San Antonio, TX 78233 Phone: ........................................ (210) 653-7288Cell: ............................................ (210) 872-2372Fax: ...................(210) 653-7897/(210) 370-3987Email: [email protected] Website: www.outdoorsign.net Contact: Yan Yan, Todd Swift

Parker Davis Co. 2310 North Tryon Street Charlotte, NC 28206 Phone: .........................................(704) 375-9111Toll: ..............................................(800) 438-0387Fax: .............................................(704) 375-9116Email: [email protected] Website: www.parkerdavis.com Contact: Roman Davis Home of the STEPSTAKE! Our patented line galvanized steel holders for corrugated plastic sign includes nine basic models to handle virtually any signage application. We have everything from our standard 9 ga. and 1/4” base models to piggybacks for splicing signs, T-Tops for free standing or POP signage, or handheld models. We also make U-stakes for posterboard or bag signs.



Peintures PMS 507 rue des Sables Québec, QC G1J 2Y1 Phone: .........................................(418) 529-0311Fax: .............................................. (418) 529-3056Email: [email protected] Contact: Francoise Breault

Penguin N.A. 2101 Oxford Street East London, ON N5V 2Z7 Phone: .........................................(519) 453-2040Toll: ..............................................(800) 465-5208Fax: .............................................(519) 453-6760Email: [email protected] Website: www.penguin-na.com Contact: Cam Stevens

Pike’s Awnings Inc.167 Caster Avenue Woodbridge, ON L4L 5Y8 Phone: .........................................(905) 264-6475Toll: ..............................................(800) 268-3748Fax: .............................................(905) 264-8019Email: [email protected] Website: www.pikesawnings.com Contact: Hugh Kayler

Plaskolite, Inc. PO Box 1497 Columbus, OH 43216 Phone: .........................................(614) 294-3281Fax: .............................................(877) 538-0754Email: [email protected] Website: www.plaskolite.com Contact: Jonda Baldwin

Plastique Alto Inc. 1285 Saint-Vallier Ouest Quebec, QC G1N 1H4 Phone: .........................................(418) 687-9041Fax: .............................................(418) 687-5942Email: [email protected] Website: www.plastiquealto.com Contact: Francois Hebert

POP Displays 3700 Saint-Patrick, Suite 300 Montreal, QC H4E 1A2 Phone: .........................................(514) 939-1454Toll: ..............................................(888) 767-4887Fax: .............................................(514) 939-2454Email: [email protected] Website: www.pop-displays.com Contact: Joel Shalit

Printer’s Parts & Equipment 60 Howden Road Scarborough, ON M1R 3E4 Phone: .........................................(416) 752-4488Fax: .............................................(416) 752-6786Email: [email protected] Website: www.printersparts.com Contact: Hasnain Kara

Protective Packaging Ltd. /Transferrite 34 Carson Street Toronto, ON M8W 3R9 Phone: .........................................(416) 255-7308Fax: .............................................(416) 255-3077Email: [email protected] Website: www.protectivepackaging.ca Contact: Linda Budd

Quality Custom Covers 70 Leeson Drive Chatham, ON N7M 5V1 Phone: .........................................(519) 354-7212Fax: .............................................(519) 354-2686Contact: Charles Manders

R Tape Corporation 6 Ingersoll Road South Plainfield, NJ 07080 Phone: .........................................(908) 753-5570Toll: ..............................................(800) 440-1250Fax: .............................................(908) 753-5014Email: [email protected] Website: www.rtape.com Contact: Rocco Rossi, Sales Manager/Laurie Richard, Sr. Marketing Manager R Tape Corporation manufacturer’s tapes, metallized vinyl & other films for sign making, screen printing, and digital imaging. Famous brands include Conform™ application tapes with lay flat feature of Release Liner Adhesion; the digital print protection of DigiMask™ and DigiWrap™ Clear for vehicle wraps; Eclypse ™ PSA Overlaminates; Claritex™ Polycarbonate; and digital, thermal & screen printable Vinylefx™ metallized vinyl featuring Chrome, Rainbow, Seamless Diamond Plate™ & Outdoor Durable Black Carbon Fibre™ in Widths from 15” to 48”!

RB Digital865 rue Hodge Montreal, QC H4N 2B1 Phone: .........................................(514) 747-2929Fax: .............................................(514) 747-6677Email: [email protected] Website: www.rbdigital.ca Contact: Jeremy Becker

Retop LED Display Corporation 20171 92A Avenue, Unit 111 Langley, BC V1M 3A5 Phone: .........................................(604) 881-2020Fax: .............................................(604) 881-2025Email: [email protected] Website: www.retopled.com Contact: Richard Pye

Rocwin Sales & Services Ltd. 1830A Gage Court Mississauga, ON L5S 1S2 Phone: .........................................(905) 672-7707Fax: .............................................(905) 672-7727Email: [email protected] Website: www.rocwin.com Contact: Rocco Presidente

Roland DGA Corporation 15363 Barranca Parkway Irvine, CA 92618 Phone: .........................................(949) 727-2100Fax: .............................................(949) 450-8649Email: [email protected] Website: www.rolanddga.com Contact: Laurie Weller

Roland DGA Corporation 15363 Barranca Parkway Irvine, CA 92618-2216 Phone: .........................................(800) 542-2307Email: [email protected] Website: www.rolanddga.com Contact: Don Ross

Rowmark LLC 2040 Industrial Drive Findlay, OH 45840 Phone: .........................................(877) ROWMARKFax: .............................................(419) 429-1385Email: [email protected] Website: www.rowmark.com Contact: Jen Schoenberger

RS Canada Inc. 164 Oakdale Road Toronto, ON M3N 2S5 Phone: .........................................(416) 741-2339Fax: .............................................(416) 741-8185Email: [email protected] Website: www.royalsovereign.com Contact: T K Lim Royal Sovereign Canada is a subsidiary of Royal Sovereign International Inc. Founded in 1986, Royal Sovereign is a leading manufacturer and distributor of Graphic Lamination Products, Office Products and Appliances that supports its customers in more than 100 countries from corporate headquarters in Rockleigh, New Jersey and manufacturing facilities around the world.


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b u y e r S ' g u i d e 2 0 0 7SawTrax Mfg. Inc. 3694 Kennesaw South Industrial Drive, Suite A Kennesaw, GA 30144 Phone: .........................................(770) 974-0021Toll: ..............................................(888) 729-8729Fax: .............................................(770) 975-1618Email: [email protected] Website: www.sawtrax.com Contact: Emily McCamy, Sales Manager

Service d’enseignes Alain Aubry Inc. 83 Gauthier 11e St-Jean Terrehonne, QC J6W 5G2 Phone: .........................................(450) 964-1869Cell: .............................................(514) 592-7311Fax: .............................................(450) 964-5499Email: [email protected] Contact: Alain Aubry

Services d’enseignes Instal-Pro Inc. 2205 rue Letendre Drummondville, QC J2C 7G1 Phone: .........................................(819) 472-3116Toll: ..............................................(888) 472-3116Fax: .............................................(819) 472-0975Email: [email protected] Website: www.instal-pro.com Contact: Melanie Arsenault

Servitech Installation & Service 33 de Bourgogne Gatineau, QC J8T 4L6 Phone: .........................................(819) 246-0896Fax: .............................................(819) 246-8349Email: [email protected] Contact: Dominic Fex

ShopBot Tools 3333-B Industrial Drive Durham, NC 27704 Phone: .........................................(919) 680-4800Fax: .............................................. (919) 680-4900Contact: Dave Minnella

Signboom Industries Limited 18747 96 Avenue, Unit 3 Surrey, BC V4N 3P5 Phone: .........................................(604) 881-0363Fax: .............................................(604) 677-6652Contact: Leonard Moore Email: [email protected] Website: www.signboom.com

Sign Comp 2925-A Walkent Court North West Grand Rapids, MI 49544 Phone: .........................................(616) 784-0405Toll: ..............................................(877) 784-0405Fax: .............................................(616) 784-0411Email: [email protected] Website: www.signcomp.com Contact: TJ Vandenheuvel

Sign Depot Corporation 140 Bradwick Drive, Unit 18 Concord, ON L4K 1K8 Phone: .........................................(905) 738-8918Toll: ..............................................(888) 337-7446Fax: ................... (905) 738-9836/(888) 527-6666Email: [email protected] Website: www.signdepot.ca Contact: Rodney Dunn

Sign Fix Ltd. 825 Garyray Drive Toronto, ON M9L 1R2 Phone: .........................................(416) 740-7333Fax: .............................................(416) 740-7067Email: [email protected] Website: www.signfixltd.com Contact: Allan Coughlin Sign Fix Ltd. is a full service Unionized sign installation company that provides sign installation services in southern Ontario for Quality Sign Manufacturers. Unique strength in Architectural Signage packages with a 30 member team of managers and installers capable of large construction, ready for occupancy completion. Full fleet of cranes and equipment.

Silver Sign Inc., The10 Planchet Road, Unit 3 Concord, ON L4K 2C8 Phone: .........................................(905) 669-0111Toll: ..............................................(877) 354-7446Fax: .............................................(905) 532-0846Email: [email protected] Contact: Babak Mehrabi Silk Screen Specialist for Lawn Signs & Post Signs

South Asia Plastics Group Ltd. 1160 Tapscott Road, Units 7-10 Scarborough, ON M1X 1E9 Phone: .........................................(416) 291-3934Fax: .............................................(416) 291-3683Email: [email protected] Website: www.southasiaplastics.com Contact: Mark Tang

Southern Stud Weld, Inc. 3910 North Freeway, Suite H Houston, TX 77022 Toll: (800) 691-0296 |Fax: (713) 691-3699 Contact: Christopher Webb

Spectrimage Inc. 1629 Trans-Canada Dorval, QC H9P 1J1 Phone: .........................................(514) 685-6905Toll: ..............................................(887) 685-6905Fax: .............................................(514) 685-9839Email: [email protected] Website: www.spectrimage.com Contact: Yves Lafontaine

Spicers, Div. of PaperlinX Canada Ltd. 3190 Caravelle Drive Mississauga, ON L4V 1K9 Phone: .........................................(416) 674-2335Fax: .............................................(416) 674-7613Email: [email protected] Website: www.spicers.ca Contact: Vija Lucs

Stahls' Inc. 140 Snow Boulevard, Unit 1-2 Concord, ON L4K 4C1 Phone: .........................................(905) 764-6300Toll: ..............................................(800) 521-5255Fax: .............................................(905) 764-8956Email: [email protected] Website: www.stahls.com Contact: Kaylie McGuire Supplier of Hotronix Heat Seal Machines, Roland GX-24 cutters, Roland Versa Camm SP 300 cut/print device, Ioline roll fed / flat bed cutters, heat applied materials, letters / numbers, graphics for garments. BRANDS--CAD-CUT materials, Thermo-FILM, Thermo-FLOCK, Thermo-GRIP, Gorilla Grip II, Poly-TWILL, ECONOPRINT, Hotronix Heat Seal Machines, Hot One heat seal machine.-ACCEPTS THE FOLLOWING CREDIT CARDS-Mastercard & Visa

Steel Art Company 75 Brainerd Road Boston, MA 02134 Phone: .........................................(617) 566-4079Fax: .............................................(617) 566-0618Email: [email protected] Website: www.steelartco.com Contact: Charles Blanchard Structural Technology Consultants, Inc. 7827 Convoy Court, Suite 406 San Diego, CA 92111 Phone: .........................................(858) 278-2400Toll: ..............................................(800) 681-8106Fax: .............................................(858) 278-2424Email: [email protected] Website: www.signengineer.com Contact: W T Northcutt We provide practical solutions for the signage industry including: basic support systems, including poles, footings, base and cap plates, splices, connections and cabinet design upon special request. Professional Liability (Errors & Omission) insurance provided on every project. Service Area: We are licensed in AZ, CA, CO, FL, IA, LA, MI, NV, NM, NC, OH, OR, TX and WA



Sunrise Systems, Inc.720 Washington Street Pembroke, MA 02359 Phone: .........................................(781) 826-9706Fax: .............................................(781) 826-0061Email: [email protected] Website: www.sunrisesystems.com Contact: Henry Appleton America’s Oldest Manufacturer of LED Signage, Incorporated in 1976. LED Signage for all Applications. Signs of All Shapes Available Including Circular, Serpentine, Vertical and Square. Our Signs are Extendible in Length Indefinitely . Many LED colors and character heights available. To see Our New Transparent “Icicle” and “Curtain Wall” Signage; See www.sunrisesystems.com Gallery. Over 30 years of Excellent Relationships with Architects & Designers Worldwide.

Sunitron Inc. 40 Pippin Road, Unit 4 Concord, ON L4K 4M6 Phone: .........................................(905) 660-6888Fax: .............................................(905) 660-8889Contact: Jerry Pappa

SuperStructure Visual Solutions 22 Kelfield Street Toronto, ON M9W 5A1 Phone: .........................................(416) 251-6712Fax: .............................................(416) 251-5679Email: [email protected] Website: www.superstructure.com Contact: Sales: Cress Carter, Ryan Brown & Marney Howden

Supra Signalisation 1377 des Rouges Gorges St-Jerome, QC J7Z 6Z4 Phone: .........................................(450) 712-7446Fax: .............................................(450) 438-5610Email: [email protected] Contact: Real Benoit

Swedcan Lumican Plastics Inc. 151 Whitehall Drive Markham, ON L3R 9T1 Phone: .........................................(905) 940-0500Fax: .............................................(905) 940-1500Email: [email protected] Contact: Des Kendall All Types of plastics in sheet and roll form. Acrylic, Polycarbonate, PVC free Foam sheet, PVC Cellular Foam sheet, Polystyrene, Ultraboard / Gatorboard sheet, PETG and ABS. PVC for signs, banners, awnings and billboards. Film and coatings. Plastic wood for outdoor applications.

TCT Graphic Products 22 Voyager Court South Toronto, ON M9W 5M7 Phone: .........................................(416) 675-6690Fax: .............................................(416) 675-6696Email: [email protected] Contact: Tom Harnisch Select Marking Films (SMF) sign vinyl film, etchglass, laminates and related products, including Duracoat foils for Gerber Edge Digital print films for eco-sol and solvent printers.

TechniLite Systems Inc. PO Box 445, 910 High Street Peterborough, ON K9J 6Z3 Phone: .........................................(705) 741-5101Toll: ..............................................(800) 780-5853Fax: .............................................(705) 741-5202Email: [email protected] Website: www.technilite.com Manufacturers and Designers of energy efficient T5 fluorescent lighting, LED lighting and signage, and custom ADA / barrier-free lit, edge-lit and non-lit signage products. We can assist your designers with your “design build” projects and customize our products to meet your application needs. At TechniLite Systems …..Design Meets Function!

Teckmark Label Systems Inc. 850 #23 Legion Road Burlington, ON L7S 1T5 Phone: .........................................(905) 681-7070Toll: ..............................................(800) 565-2235Fax: .............................................(905) 681-7072Email: [email protected] Website: www.teckmark.com Contact: Robin Tucker, Customer Service

TFT Transfotec International 400 Du Parc St-Eustache, QC J7R 0A1 Phone: .........................................(450) 491-5671Toll: ..............................................(800) 665-1166Fax: .............................................(450) 491-3788Email: [email protected] Website: www.transfotec.com Contact: Ignac Copot

Topmade Plastics & Neon Signs Ltd. 2620 22nd Street North East, Unit 1 Calgary, AB T2E 7L9 Phone: .........................................(403) 291-3683Fax: .............................................. (403) 291-3120Email: [email protected] Website: www.topmade.com Contact: Chris Wong

Trans-Art Holdings Ltd. 1075 1st Street West, Unit 105 North Vancouver, BC V7P 3T4 Phone: .........................................(604) 990-6742Toll: ..............................................(877) 994-6824Fax: .............................................(604) 990-6743Email: [email protected] Website: www.displayworld.ca Contact: Hok Lin Man

Transformateur Federal Ltee 5059 boul St-Jean-Baptiste Montreal, QC H1B 5V3 Phone: .........................................(514) 640-5059Toll: ..............................................(800) 361-0223Fax: .............................................(514) 640-4729Email: [email protected] Website: www.transfed.com Contact: Pierre Venne

Treck Hall Signware 40 Viceroy Road Concord, ON L4K 2L8 Phone: .........................................(905) 738-4255Fax: .............................................(905) 738-5087Email: [email protected] Website: www.treckhall.com Contact: Matt Bartlett

Trican Corporation 6200 Danville Road Mississauga, ON L5T 2H7 Phone: .........................................(905) 795-1525Fax: .............................................(905) 795-1526Email: [email protected] Website: www.tricancorp.ca Contact: Michel Bordet

Trillium Signs & Designs 10 Hamilton Road Barrie, ON L4N 8Y5 Phone: .........................................(705) 722-0006Toll: ..............................................(800) 461-5777Fax: .............................................(705) 721-4600Email: [email protected] Website: www.trilliumsigns.com Contact: David O’Brien

Turbo Images 1225 107e rue Saint-Georges, QC G5Y 8C3 Phone: .........................................(418) 227-8872Toll: ..............................................(888) 219-8872Fax: .............................................(418) 227-0799Email: [email protected] Website: www.turbo-images.com

US LED, Ltd. 1800 Bering, Suite 700 Houston, TX 77057 USA Phone: .........................................(713) 972-9191Toll: ..............................................(866) 972-9191Fax: .............................................(713) 972-9393Email: [email protected] Website: www.us-led.com Contact: Ron Farmer

Ultima Displays Canada 160 Cochrane Drive, Unit 2 Markham, ON L3R 9S1 Phone: .........................................(905) 470-7499Toll: ..............................................(866) 785-8462Fax: .............................................(905) 513-6337Email: [email protected] Website: www.ultimadisplays.ca Contact: Vivian Tanner

Ultraflex Systems, Inc. 1578 Sussex Turnpike, Building 4 Randolph, NJ 07869 Phone: .........................................(973) 627-8608Fax: .............................................(973) 627-8506Email: [email protected] Website: www.ultraflexx.com Contact: Lorna D’Alessio

Unisource Canada, Inc. 50 East Wilmot Street Richmond Hill, ON L4B 3Z3 Phone: .........................................(905) 771-4141Fax: .............................................(905) 771-4000Email: [email protected] Website: www.unisource.ca Contact: Nanette Libatique

Universal Lighting Technologies, Inc. 26 Century Boulevard, Suite 500 Nashville, TN 37214 Phone: .........................................(615) 316-5100Fax: .............................................(615) 316-5162Email: [email protected] Website: www.universalballast.com Contact: Eric Bobbitt

Universal Products, Inc. 521 Industrial Street Goddard, KS 67052 Phone: .........................................(316) 794-8601Fax: .............................................(316) 794-8398Email: [email protected] Website: www.u-p.com Contact: Kathryn Reekie

Virginia Optoelectronics, Inc. 1405 Ashford Court Blacksburg, VA 24060 Phone: .........................................(540) 449-9658Fax: .............................................(540) 552-6999Email: [email protected] Website: www.vaopto.com Contact: Charles Li

Wagner Zip-Change Inc. 3100 Hirsch Street Melrose Park, IL 60160 Phone: .........................................(800) 323-0744Fax: .............................................(800) 243-4924Email: [email protected] Website: www.wagnerzip.com Contact: James Leone

Willox Graphic Supplies 3104 South East Marine Drive Vancouver, BC V5S 2H4 Phone: .........................................(604) 255-7725Toll: ..............................................(800) 561-8844Fax: .............................................(604) 255-0676Email: [email protected] Website: www.willox.com Contact: Craig Willox

Workplace Safety Group 18 Ontario Street Grimsby, ON L3M 3H1 Phone: .........................................(905) 309-9429Toll: ..............................................(866) 347-7707Fax: .............................................(905) 309-9430Email: [email protected] Website: www.workplacesafetygroup.com Contact: Kenneth Hicks

WRI Supply 2758 Slough Street Mississauga, ON L4T 1G3 Phone: .........................................(250) 491-7887Toll: ..............................................(800) 663-2377Fax: .............................................(250) 491-7880Email: [email protected] Website: www.wrisupply.com Contact: Frank Braewer

York Manufacturing Services 65 St. Regis Crescent North Toronto, ON M3J 1Y9 Phone: .........................................(416) 242-6860Fax: .............................................(416) 242-4461Email: [email protected] Contact: Maria Lopez

Yuan Yuan Enterprises 107-5630 Inman Avenue Burnaby, BC V5H 2L7 Phone: .........................................(604) 439-9292Fax: .............................................(604) 439-9212Email: [email protected] Website: www.yuanyuancanada.com

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for high-end indoor signage identifying offices and suites in large public professional and medical buildings. Be it a dental office, a law firm, a healthcare center or memorials, GeMINI Metal Letters are a perfect alternative to large letters, directory-style signs and other small letters that have been unable to measure up to customers’ exacting demands and expectations.

GeMINI Metal Letters are produced in sizes ranging from 1/2” to 1-3/4” in height. The aluminum mini letters come in natural satin, painted, or polished finish. Brass mini letters and bronze mini letters come in a natural satin, oxidized, or polished finish.

In order to obtain the tight precision required on letters of this size, Gemini is currently limiting the thickness of GeMINI Metal Letters to between 1/8” and 3/16”.

In addition, due to the small size and thin strokes of these letters, anodized and patina finishes are not typically available.

For more information, contact Gemini Managing Director, Pete Brimmer at:

Phone: (519) 799-5952 — or e-mail: [email protected]

Mutoh America Inc.Mutoh America, a worldwide manufacturer of large-format commercial inkjet printers, has increased the print speed of its ValueJet printer, from 100 sf/hr to 140 sf/hr. The new X-Rail design and piezo print-head technology allow for the increased print speeds. The ValueJet provides three individually controlled heaters for immediate drying, improved paper-feed accuracy, and a compact design. It comes equipped with RIP software from SA International, FlexiPRINT, a starter set of Eco-Ultra ink, and a one-year on-site warranty. To learn more about the ValueJet, go to www.mutoh.com or call 1-800-99-MUTOH.

Roland DGA CorporationRoland has introduced the Hi-Fi Express FP-

740 74” high-performance sublimation inkjet printer. The FP-740 can be used to produce sublimated graphics for a range of wide-format applications including flags, banners and other soft signage. It features eight piezo print heads, an extended-capacity ink-delivery system, HeatWave sublimation inks and an automated media take-up system, and can produce graphics at print speeds of up to 548 sq. ft./hr. The FP-740 has eight ink cartridges feeding 16 intermediate reservoirs; it accommodates more than 3520 ml of usable ink. The printer’s automated intelligent maintenance system automatically performs routine maintenance, monitoring the printer and adjusting maintenance intervals accordingly. An automated front-mounted media take-up system adjusts automatically to eliminate excess slack in the media. The FP-740 comes with VersaWorks professional RIP software, developed by Roland for the company’s wide-format inkjet printers and printer/cutters. It is available immediately through Roland’s network of authorized resellers. For more information on Roland products, visit either www.rolanddga.com or www.rolandasd.com.

Texture PlusTexture Plus® Cut Granite is a new design in a product line of high-density design and construction panels that can be used indoors or outdoors. Cut Granite is available in tan, gray, light gray and light tan. These high-impact panels provide extraordinarily realistic dimensional textured surfaces that are easy to apply. More information can be obtained by contacting [email protected] or 1-800-863-8468, or by going to www.textureplus.com.

3P InkJet Textiles AG3P offers two new Universal banners for digital large-format printing. The flame-retardant banners, Universal Polyester Banner light

FR (IQ-IJ105) and Universal Polyester Banner heavy FR (IQ-IJ107), are compatible with popular inkjet printers using pigment or dye-based ink, solvent, eco-solvent or UV curable inks. These fabrics can be used to produce banner prints from 24” to 122” wide suitable for indoor or outdoor use. More information is available at www.3p-inktextiles.com.

Ultraflex Systems, Inc.U l t r a f l e x Sys tems has pa ten ted a completely biodegradable sign material ca l l ed B IO f lex™. When exposed to conditions in a landfill (darkness, high heat and moisture), BIOflex attracts microbes that break down PVC and turn it into dust. BIOflex is initially available in seamless widths up to 16’4”, suited for frontl it solvent and UV printed signs and banners. Ultraf lex plans to introduce BIOmesh and additional sizes of biodegradable subst ra tes in the fu ture . For more information on BIOflex and the company’s complete line of substrates for digital, UV and screen-printing applications, contact Ultraflex at 1-800-368-7858.

Vista System Internationali. Vista System recently launched its new wall-mounted illuminated signs, available in sizes from 10” (250 mm) to 48” (1200 mm), with lengths available per customer specification. Finishes are silver, black or custom painted. ii. The company has also introduced the V16, a custom, modular curved-frame solution designed primarily for shelf signage, but suited for any application that requires a miniature-size frame. The V16 mounts easily with double-sided tape or counter-sunk screws. iii. Vista now offers triangular freestanding pylon systems that require only a screwdriver for assembly. The pylons can be used to create a way-finding system, with the addition of short sections of Vista post extrusion between frame sections.

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imagemakers buyers' guide - may/june 2007

Documents

bob bronk president

ontario chapter president

robert bob bronk publisher

sacs executive director

sign industry

sac member companies

sac office

sac plan