HP’s Latex R530 printer streamlines signage & boosts sustainability

HP has launched the Latex R530 printer, targeting small and medium Print Service Providers (PSPs) to address challenges around space, investment costs, and operational workflows in hybrid rigid and flexible media printing.

Signart, a Brisbane-based signage business, has adopted the new printer, reporting improved productivity, reduced outsourcing, quicker turnaround, and greater sustainability in their outputs.

The company has been producing signage for more than 25 years, working with clients across sectors such as real estate, education, and government.

Market needs

Small and medium-sized PSPs frequently struggle to bring rigid media printing in-house due to high upfront costs and the physical space required for traditional large-format machinery. Many instead outsource these jobs or face inefficient workflows that can limit their ability to deliver quickly and consistently.

In response, HP designed the Latex R530 to fit limited spaces, use single-phase power, and consolidate rigid and flexible production into one device.

"The HP Latex R530 is designed for print businesses that want to do more with less - less space, less waste, and less operational friction," said Craig Hardman, ANZ Country Manager, Large Format Printing at HP. "It brings powerful production capabilities into a compact footprint, making it ideal for small and medium print service providers looking to scale without compromise. For growing businesses like Signart, the R530 opens the door to faster turnarounds, new applications, and greater control by enabling high-quality, in-house production of both rigid and flexible jobs. We're proud to continue to support innovative Australian businesses that are embracing smarter, more sustainable ways of working and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in signage and display."

With the new hybrid device, HP aims to give more PSPs direct access to both rigid and flexible printing in their own facilities, reducing reliance on third-party outsourcing and the associated logistical challenges.

Signart's experience

Signart faced ongoing pressure from increasing demand and limited floorspace.

The Latex R530 allowed the business to bring a greater number of jobs in-house, streamline production, and improve control of both quality and turnaround. According to Signart, the printer's hybrid capabilities have directly contributed to a sustainable scaling of the business without any apparent drop in final output standards.

"The R530's one-person operation, white ink capabilities and hybrid media handling have transformed our workflow," said Harjeet Singh, Production Manager at Signart. "It's allowed us to bring previously outsourced jobs back in-house, speed up turnaround times, and take on larger, more complex projects with confidence. The ability to print directly to rigid substrates and use white ink has saved hours of manual work and significantly reduced waste with one example being backlit displays on acrylic sheets. We're already seeing real returns, increased speed, standout results, and a growing client base that recognises the difference in our output. In addition, with our internal fabrication capabilities, the R530 prints directly to pre-painted aluminium panels. We then apply our own topcoat for this long-term outdoor signage application. Previously, we were using screen printed panels, now we print on demand with exceptional results with no limits to minimal orders."

Sustainable design

The Latex R530 includes several features aimed at sustainability.

Its inks are UL ECOLOGO certified, and the machinery incorporates 25% recycled plastic. Its direct-to-rigid printing process is intended to minimise waste while maintaining recyclability of fibre-based media, and automatic printhead cleaning reduces both downtime and material usage.

The design also features a single-phase power system, allowing installation in locations where three-phase power supplies may not be viable.

As part of HP's overall sustainability strategy, the company has also expanded its Sustainability Amplifier Program to include large-format PSPs, providing tools and guidance for businesses seeking to measure and improve their environmental footprint.

Production management

HP has launched the PrintOS Production Hub to further support efficiency in print service operations. The platform enables centralised job and production management, remote production control, and combines order management into a real-time, cloud-based environment. HP reports that this is intended to reduce operational bottlenecks and errors across the large-format PSP market.

The Latex R530 is now available in Australia and New Zealand.