Sapphire Graphics was established in 1989, initially developing from the need to provide branding and graphics for Don-Bur customers. As the operation developed, the division adopted the Sapphire name to differentiate its specialist graphics activities from the parent company.
From traditional signwriting to digital print
Commercial vehicle graphics in the early years relied much more heavily on traditional signwriting techniques. Those skills have been retained within Sapphire Graphics, although production has progressively shifted towards digital printing as technology and customer requirements have changed.
The first large-format printer arrived in around 1997 with the introduction of a 5 m NUR Blueboard. This four-colour inkjet printer pre-dated the company's use of UV printing and did not provide a clearcoat.
It was subsequently superseded by a 3.2 m Mimaki printer, accompanied by two 1.5 m Mimaki vinyl printers. This continuing investment in production technology was driven by changing customer requirements and the need to remain competitive.
Expanding the production facilities
In 2012, Sapphire Graphics moved from rented premises on King Street to larger premises alongside Don-Bur's main curtain division. Further investment in the site included new fitting bays in 2014 and 2021.
A significant production upgrade followed in February 2022 with the installation of an EFI VUTEk Q3r UV LED printer and the creation of a designated printer room. The VUTEk has a 3.2 m print bed and can apply and UV-cure varnish during printing.
Current production equipment also includes a Zund flatbed plotter, a Summa plotter with print-aligned cutting capability and a vinyl laminator. The premises were fully renovated in 2024.
Sapphire Graphics today
Commercial vehicles have remained at the centre of Sapphire Graphics' work since 1989. The techniques used to produce vehicle graphics have changed considerably, with a perceptible shift from traditional signwriting towards UV printing, but traditional signwriting skills remain available.
Alongside commercial vehicle liveries, the company now produces graphics for applications including exhibition graphics, banners, building wraps and PVC covers. Its combination of artwork, reprographics, printing, cutting, laminating, signwriting and fitting supports projects from initial concept through to finished graphics.
