The latest antimicrobial hardcoated films - developed and manufactured by MacDermid Autotype - are being used by leading German design agency Handmade Werbeagentur und Produktionshaus to offer added protection to a revolutionary range of graphics for bar equipment and counter tops. Recently launched at the BRAU Beviale trade show in Nuremberg, the new bar graphics offer a unique combination of display, mechanical and chemical properties, making them ideal for high usage areas and as a powerful promotional medium.
Although the Handmade Produktionshaus unit has been providing a specialised design and production service to breweries and beverage manufacturers for a number of years, the introduction of these latest antimicrobial films has enabled the company to develop a range of bar graphics that provide exceptional standards of hygiene.
The SIGMAGraF Shield antimicrobial film is manufactured using a conventional high quality polyester base layer, onto which MacDermid Autotype bonds a specially formulated coating. This provides an exceptionally tough outer surface that is resistant to abrasions, scratches and mechanical damage, and is capable of resisting a wide range of commonly used detergents and cleaning chemicals.
Just as importantly, the tough outer coating incorporates Microban antimicrobial protection. This active antimicrobial ingredient is distributed evenly throughout the surface of the film and effectively prevents the growth and spread of bacteria and mildew for the lifetime of the film.
The graphics developed by Handmade are intended specifically for use on bar equipment, such as the sides or doors of refrigerators and bottle coolers, and on bar counter tops. The company has already carried out various projects for breweries throughout Germany, including a range of eye-catching promotion bar counter graphics for the Ernst Barre Brewery in Lübbecke.
Christian Joseph, of Handmade, explains that, “I am happy and proud that the bar counter graphics we have developed meet the stringent demands of private companies such as Ernst Barre, and are now finding favour with many breweries throughout Germany. In addition, we have found an excellent partner in MacDermid Autotype, with the company’s innovative materials reflecting the high standards that we offer all our customers".