How the printing technology innovator is continuing to meet modern demands
By Mike Clark
For more than 70 years, MUTOH America has offered print providers the ability to adapt to changing markets through cutting-edge technology and application-driven innovation.
For forward-thinking businesses, that means refining and iterating on equipment that delivers high-quality output and supports new revenue streams and shorter turnaround times.
That commitment to innovation has shaped the MUTOH evolution over the years, including the launch of the ValueJet series in the early 2000s and the XpertJet line.
“The XpertJet 661UF was an instant success due to its outstanding ability to produce ADA-compliant signage,” says Emilio Rangel, product manager at MUTOH America.
More recently, the HydrAton 1642 provided printers with capabilities for sustainable water-based printing.
Each step and new product release has reflected the same goal: to provide tools and equipment that are practical, dependable, and ready to meet the demands of print businesses.
For retailers specializing in promotional products, signage, and awards, attention to market demand matters. There’s a continued need for short-run production, customized items, and specialty effects that help businesses stand out from commodity print providers.
“At the same time, shops are looking for equipment that can handle multiple applications without adding complexity to their workflows,” says Rangel.
Designed for Growth
Rangel highlights how the combination of MUTOH product offerings and unique features helps address several needs of modern retailers.
“MUTOH UV printers, including models like the XpertJet 661UF and 1462UF, are well-positioned for these trends by allowing users to produce signage, promotional products, awards, ADA signage, and personalized items all on a single platform with strong adhesion and high image quality,” he notes.
Other thoughtful features, such as UV Local Dimming Control Technology, which allows users to print CMYK and gloss in one pass easily, simplify the process of embellishing their products. Rangel also points to Spot Lenticular, an advanced graphic technique that applies a glossy, transparent lenticular-lens effect to specific, targeted areas of a print, as a way for printers to create impressive effects on anything under 5.9 inches.
Turning a Printer into an Asset
For most businesses, consistent output is what turns a good printer into a business asset. MUTOH has long emphasized manufacturing quality, and its products prioritize repeatable results and user-friendly operation.
Rangel says that such reliability and minimal workflow disruption are crucial for retailers managing short-turn orders, multiple substrates, and mixed production methods.
“Customers trust our products because they are manufactured to some of the highest standards,” he says. “Our constant strive for innovation also means that we are introducing features in terms of printer technology and workflow that focus on providing premium levels of quality.”
In short, retailers can focus more on production and spend less time on troubleshooting.
MUTOH UV technologies also support a safer and more environmentally friendly production environment.
“Our water-based ink for the HydrAton 1642 has no SVHCs or GHS hazard symbols, as well as half the VOC content of latex,” Rangel points out.
Fewer volatile chemicals mean shops can run more environmentally conscious businesses and safer workplaces.
Support for the Long Term
Equally crucial to meeting modern demands for retailers is the support that accompanies any equipment investment. MUTOH provides customers with a library of learning content, how-to resources, and application guidance designed to help users build confidence as they move into new print categories.
For retailers in more specialized markets, there’s also robust video and instructional content on a broad range of products and industries. Specialized education includes key categories such as braille, color management, and dye sublimation, as well as vehicle wraps and wallpaper.
“We also provide all new users with the StartRight Kit 3.0, which is a training tool kit that walks them through how to produce several key applications, complete with blanks and printed samples,” says Rangel.
Shifting Demands
Looking ahead, Rangel says the biggest opportunity for retailers in 2026 lies in personalization, premium finishing, and short-run specialty work.
“Customers increasingly want custom products, textured effects, ADA-compliant signage, direct-to-object printing, and premium embellishments like spot varnish and layered finishes,” he suggests.
MUTOH UV platforms, including the XpertJet 661UF and 1462UF, are positioned to help businesses capitalize on those expectations with precise color output, durable substrate adhesion, and the versatility to handle a wide range of applications.
That versatility extends to categories such as awards, promotional items, and ADA-compliant signage, where both precision and presentation matter.
Rangel points out that there’s still a strong opportunity in these segments because businesses want a single production solution that can keep pace with shifting customer demands while preserving quality and efficiency.
“We are excited about what the future holds here at MUTOH and will continue to be one of the leaders in the industry when it comes to manufacturing reliable, user-friendly, and innovative products.”