Berry & Homer Invests in Latest Technology.

Business Editors

PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 17, 2003

Berry & Homer, the oldest commercial photo lab in the nation, has invested in the latest technology.

The addition of the VuTek PressVu UV further extends Berry & Homer's digital imaging capabilities. The PressVu UV uses a drop on demand technology and UV cured inks to provide brilliant colors and sharp type on a variety of substrates, both rigid and flexible. With the PressVu UV Berry and Homer is now capable of printing on virtually any rigid substrate up to 2" in thickness. Common substrates such as foam core, sintra and coroplast as well as unique substrates such as wood, ceiling tiles and doors have been successfully printed using this output device. Berry & Homer has invested nearly $ 2,000,000 in their digital imaging infrastructure this year.

"This new technology further distances us from our competition" said Joe Thompson, III Berry & Homer President. "The addition of the PressVu is a natural progression from our photo lab roots to the total visual solution provider we have become".

The PressVu broadens the marketplace for Berry & Homer who now see themselves with a niche in the digital screen printer market. We see tremendous growth potential for this product in the signage and POP (Point Of Purchase) markets. In addition, it will also allow us to bring a new dimension to the corporate communications and tradeshow markets we have served successfully for years.

When teamed with the I-Cut digital router Berry & Homer will be equipped to contour cut any shape on virtually a substrate. The I-Cut can accommodate any board up to 86" x 119". It can cut boards up to 3/4" thick.

The PressVu UV is the second investment in technology Berry & Homer has made this year. Just over 6 months ago the decision was made to add a VuTek 5330 to Berry & Homer's already significant digital imaging capabilities. The 5330, an 8 color grand format printer, produces brilliant full color images on a variety of vinyl, mesh and fabric substrates.

"Both output devices complimented our core business and are in line with our philosophy of producing the highest quality graphics in the industry," said Joe Thompson, III.

To compliment the VuTek 5330 Berry & Homer added a FIAB RF welder. This equipment gives us the ability to seam graphics together to accommodate any size project.

When asked why he felt the need to make these investments Thompson said, "In a year when many of our competitors have had difficulties, we have grown. It only made sense to re-invest in the future of our company, customers and employees".