International Graphics Supplies (IGS) has reported “a significant increase” in refurbished thermal CTP sales in the UK.

As some of the major plate manufacturers begin to phase out violet plate production, Monmouthshire-based IGS said that existing violet CTP users that had used those technologies are actively looking for an affordable upgrade path.

The supplier’s recent UK installations, which took place across November and December, included a Heidelberg Suprasetter A75 ATL to Flying Colours in Oxford, an Agfa Acento to SetLine Data in London, and a Screen 4300 to AD3 Business Forms in Leeds.

IGS managing director Peter Flynn said: “I have been a strong advocate of Violet technology during my time as sales director at HighWater Designs, selling violet CTP to countries around the world including OEM partnerships with Heidelberg and Esko Graphics.

“I feel for the violet CTP end users who have a very capable CTP system but no plate to image on their machines.

“What we can offer these customers is an upgrade path to an affordable refurbished thermal CTP. Moving to a thermal CTP will allow the users to benefit from daylight operation and the ability to use direct to press plates.”

IGS offers 4- and 8-up thermal CTP systems from Agfa, Heidelberg, Kodak, and Screen. Each refurbished machine comes with installation, training, and a parts and labour warranty.