london book fair 2024 imago group meet us graphic

London Book Fair 2024 | We’re Exhibiting!

Imago are delighted to announce that we will be exhibiting once again at The London Book Fair 2024. The London Book Fair provides us with the ideal environment to meet customers and suppliers whether we work together already or not. We always use The London Book Fair as an informal opportunity to discuss your project(s) and ensure you go away with all of the information you need to get started.

Meet The Imago Team at London Book Fair 2024

Imago staff from the UK, USA, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy will be attending The London Book Fair and will be on hand to discuss your requirements in more detail.

To ensure that the right person will be available to discuss your project and ideas, please get in touch with us so we can arrange a pre-booked meeting at the show to allow for plenty of time to chat and showcase appropriate samples and materials available.

When is The London Book Fair 2024 Taking Place?

The London Book Fair 2024 is taking place between on the 12th, 13th, and 14th of March.

Show Times:

Tuesday 12th March: 9am – 6:30pm
Wednesday 13th March:
9am – 6:30pm
Thursday 14th March:
9am – 5pm

Where is The London Book Fair 2024 Taking Place?

The London Book Fair 2024 is taking place at Olympia London. The full address is Olympia London, Hammersmith Road, London, W14 8UX and you can get directions using the map provided below.

How To Find Imago at The London Book Fair

Imago are located on Stand 6A105 on the Ground Floor of the Grand Hall at The London Book Fair. We have three dedicated meeting tables (and yes, with comfortable chairs) to ensure we have enough space and time to discuss your project!

The London Book Fair Floor Plan

Take a look at the 2D and 3D animated London Book Fair 2024 floor plan below so you can find us!

The show is quite large, so we recommend you pick up a floor plan at the entrance to the show. But we’re always on hand to help. If you can’t find us on the day, please email enquiries@imagogroup.com and a member of the team will be in touch to help guide you to our stand.

 imago group london book fair floor plan location

What’s On Display at the Imago Group Stand?

You can expect to find an array of samples that we’ve been working on with our customers past and present on the Imago stand at The London Book Fair this year. We will be bringing with us and showcasing some of the most extraordinary products from a print and production perspective and cannot wait to share them with you.

If you attended and met with us at London Book Fair 2023, don’t worry, we will be bringing more incredible items we’ve produced since we last met so it’s well worth booking a meeting with us if you’d like to see our latest products.

We promise that the materials we bring along will help inspire your next product whether it be a book, tarot card set, jigsaw puzzle or something completely different!  We are confident that we can help, no matter where you are in your project.

imago stand london book fair 2022

Book a Meeting with Imago at The London Book Fair

Get in touch with us at Imago to arrange a meeting with us at The London Book Fair 2024. We would be delighted to hear from anyone who is looking to discuss their project and understand the options available to them when it comes to print management of their product.

Please fill out the short form below and include as much information as possible about you or your business along with some details surrounding your print project.  We will be in touch to discuss your meeting in more detail and arrange a suitable time with you.

Imago Group Valentine's Day prints: Celebrate love with Imago

Discover Imago Group Valentine’s Day Prints – Printed with Love!

Love is in the air at Imago Group! Let’s celebrate this season of love by revisiting some iconic Imago Group Valentine’s Day Prints. Between, heartwarming love stories, self-love empowerment, and delightful humour, and, whether you’re celebrating yourself or a special someone, let’s make this Valentine’s day truly unforgettable!

Imago Group Valentine's Day prints: Lunar New Year

Valentine’s Day Prints #1: – Lunar New Year Love Story – Macmillan Publishers  

Discover a heartwarming rom-com by Gene Luen Yang and LeUyen Pham. This Graphic Novel features a Limp Cover Finishing, including Matt Lamination and Spot UV, beautifully complementing this Lunar New Year Love Story. Ethical paper adds an eco-friendly touch to this love story, perfect for sharing with your significant other.

Valentine’s Day Prints #2 Self-Love Cards Deck – Edition Michael Fischer  

Valentine’s Day isn’t limited to significant others; make it about you with EMF’s Self-Love Cards Deck. This set of 64 lovingly designed cards and feel-good mantras becomes an ideal companion for embracing self-love and empowerment.

Imago Group Valentine's Day prints: Self Care Cards
Imago Group Valentine's Day prints: LOL jokes

Valentine’s Day Prints #3: Lift-the-Flap (Laugh-Out-Loud Jokes for Kids) HarperCollins  

For the young at heart, our collaboration with HarperCollins resulted in a lift-the-flap collection of Valentine’s Day jokes. Gloss Lamination on the cover, Water-based Varnish on the contents and Wire Stitch Binding were used to ensured its durability and making it an ideal choice for sharing humorous moments with kids, friends, and loved ones.

Valentine’s Day Prints #4: Who loves whom – Pattloch Geschenkbuch  

An enchanting memo game celebrating 20 legendary literary couples beautifully illustrated by Anke Schmiemann. This high-quality gift for couples, loved ones or friends is perfect for Valentine’s Day and showcase our commitment to creating unique, memorable experiences.

Imago Group Valentine's Day prints Memory Game
Imago Group Valentine's Day prints: Love Poems

Valentine’s Day Prints #5: Poems for Love: A New Anthology – Macmillan Publishers  

Joanna Trollope introduces a timeless anthology of classic love poems. Imago Group’s commitment to ethical paper and printing expertise resulted in a gloss art jacket with matt lamination and spot UV, and gold foiled edges collector’s edition. Perfect for gifting to book lovers or reading aloud with a loved one.

 

Valentine’s Day Prints #6: Treasure Holder: Collect Precious Memories – Kawohl Verlag

Where do you keep those lovely letters, special date receipts, or memorable pictures from your significant other? This pretty fan folder is designed to keep everything in its place, compact, and tidy on your bookshelf. With 12 expandable pockets, you can safely gather precious pictures, notes, newspapers, and more, ensuring you never lose those valuable memories. Dedicate a folder to a person, a topic, a trip – possibilities are endless!

Imago Group Valentine's Day prints: Memories
Imago Group Valentine's Day prints: The art of Breaking up

Valentine’s Day Prints #7: The Art of Breaking Up – Harper Collins

Explore love from both sides with Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s ingenious, flippable book. Featuring an imitation cloth cased cover, matte machine varnish, and spot UV finish, this book capture all the complexities of heartbreak and healing, making it a thoughtful gift for those navigating love’s twists and turns. And remember, not every date may be a keeper, but if it doesn’t last, we’ve got just the book for it!

 

At Imago Group, we’re passionate about bringing stories to life, and these collaborations perfectly capture the essence of Valentine’s Day – a celebration of all forms of love.

Whether you celebrate this day on your own or sharing this days with a special someone, friends or family, Imago Group Valentine’s day prints are designed to create lasting memories. Join us in celebrating the season of love with Imago Group’s timeless creations!

If you’re eager to discuss your future print projects with our experts, we’re here for you! Fill in the form below, and let’s bring your ideas to life.

Happy Holidays from Imago Group

Imago Group is officially declaring the Start of the Holiday Season

Get ready to unwrap pure magic because at Imago, we don’t just make Advent Calendars; we sprinkle them with joy, blend them with crafty skills, and wrap them in a bow of Christmas spirit! Our German team is at the North Pole of creativity, handcrafting a treasure trove of Advent calendars that says “Merry Christmas!”

Collaborating with creative artists and publishers, we’ve brewed up a merry collection of our past work that’ll make your holiday sparkle brighter than Rudolph’s nose!

Enchanting Christmas Market

Illustrator: Mo BĂĽdinger | Publisher: Korsch Verlag

Get ready to create your very own mini Christmas wonderland at home! Mo BĂĽdinger’s crafting Advent calendar doesn’t need glue, just your imagination. Each 5 x 4.5 x 7 cm piece holds surprises and fits perfectly with the numbered stickers guiding you through the Advent season. It’s a gift, it’s a decoration, it’s pure Christmas magic!

German Advent Calendar Enchanting Christmas Market Korsch Verlag
German Advent Calendar THE NUTCRACKER Korsch Verlag

The Nutcracker 

Designer: Petra Lefin | Publisher: Korsch Verlag

Step into the enchanting world of “The Nutcracker” ballet with Petra Lefin’s mesmerising calendar! Dance your way through the 30.5 x 29 cm stage into a delightful pop-up scene where Clara and her Prince shine. Behind 24 doors, witness scenes that bring the ballet to life, making your Christmas truly magical.

Magic Stars

Artist: Eugen Stross | Publisher: Korsch Verlag

Add a touch of elegance with Eugen Stross’s 29 x 60 cm masterpiece adorned with beautiful finishing. Behind 24 large doors, explore the captivating world of magic and fantasy. Let this calendar be your stylish wall ornament, enchanting your home throughout the Christmas season.

German Advent Calendar MAGIC STARS Korsch Verlag
German Advent Calendar POETRY Korsch Verlag

Poetry Advent Calendar

Designer: Petra Lefin | Publisher: Korsch Verlag

Prepare to be charmed by Petra Lefin’s poetic journey! Unveil 49 x 66 cm of pure nostalgia with 24 envelopes carrying winter and Christmas poems, beautifully illustrated with vibrant colors. This award-winning calendar is a treasure trove of poetic delight.

Porsche 911 Model Kit

Buckle up for the 1963 Porsche 911 Model Kit Advent Calendar. Unwrap 24 boxes filled with daily Porsche surprises! But that’s not all, to celebrate Christmas Eve, assemble your miniature Porsche on a plastic base with a sound module, bringing the engine to life.

Craft your diorama, explore Porsche’s history in a fascinating book, and easily assemble the 1:43 scale model. Get ready for a roaring, race-ready Christmas!

German Advent Calendar PORSCHE 911 Korsch Verlag
German PUZZLE Advent Calendar Korsch Verlag

Puzzle-Adventskalender

Collaboration with Coppenrath

Rekindle the festive fun with a 1000-piece puzzle featuring a German Victorian-inspired Christmas village. Inside each of the 24 boxes, discover a few puzzle pieces, allowing you to gradually complete this enchanting scene day by day. Embrace the joy of the season as you piece together this delightful puzzle, celebrating the countdown to Christmas!

Groh Advent Calendars

Publisher: Groh collaborated with us to create daily delights with those advent calendars filled with stunning stickers! From Christmas food-themed to adorable illustrations, this calendar promises daily surprises that cater to everyone’s festive cravings.

German Advent Calendar Groh
Happy Holidays form Imago Group

‘Tis the season for festive cheer, and at Imago Group, we’re the elves making merry magic happen! As we wrap up this sleigh ride through our past Christmas wonders, we hope you’ve caught a glimpse of the sparkle and joy we bring to the holidays. Our Advent calendars aren’t just about counting down; they’re about creating memories, spreading smiles, and adding that extra dash of Christmas spirit to your homes.

And that’s not all, hold onto your sleigh bells because we’ve got a festive treat coming your way! Stay tuned on our socials, especially our Instagram page @ImagoPublishing, as we kick off December with our very own Advent calendar starring our Imago Elves. Starting December 1st, expect daily doses of Christmas magic and surprise visits from our spirited helpers, straight from our workshop to your screen!

So, put on your favorite jingles, and get ready for the most wonderful time of the year!  From all of us here at Imago Group, we wish you a season filled with laughter, warmth, and all the enchantment Christmas brings!

And, if you’re dreaming of a special Christmas project, fill in the form below, and let’s make your holiday dreams come true!

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Imago Halloween books selection

Happy Halloween Reading from Imago Group!

Halloween is the season of eerie enchantment and thrilling tales, and what better way to embrace the spirit of the season than by diving into a collection of captivating books that promise to send shivers down your spine. Let’s peek behind the curtain and discover some of the production secrets, from the past and present, that are woven into these Halloween-themed books. 

Le Livre de la Mort et de l’Au-DelĂ  (The Book of Death and the Afterlife) – Dunod

Kicking off our Halloween spine tinglers is a book that delves into the mysteries of the afterlife.  The cover is a macabre masterpiece, a rich and detailed mix of red and gold foiling, and debossing over a black buckram case that beckons the reader to step inside.  Open it up, and you’ll find the striking images printed onto uncoated woodfree paper adds to the whole experience. 

Livre de La Mort
Halloween themed Scratch Book

“Mein Grusel Kritzkratz-Buch” (My Spooky Scratch-Book) – Ars Kreativ 

“Mein Grusel Kritzkratz-Buch” promises a delightfully scary experience. This interactive scratch art book adds a unique twist to the Halloween season. Use the FSC wooden tool to scratch away the black ink and draw spooky surprises on every page.  A chunky wire-o binding makes this the perfect choice for young artists to get into the spirit of Halloween. 

Eager to learn more about the scratch-book activities? Dive deeper into our case study for all the details.

Night Terror – Fantagraphics

If you thought scary books were all about the words, “Night Terror” will change your mind. This book of creepy pen and ink drawings by cult illustrator John Ken Mortensen is a visual masterpiece. The book is casebound with deliciously soft touch lamination and splashes of spot uv embellishments to the cover. Precise printing brings out all the intricate details, adding depth and texture to Mortensen’s nightmarish scenes.

Night Terror
Stephen King at the movies by Ian Nathan

Stephen King at the Movies – Palazzo  

A Halloween-themed books list would be lacking without a mention of the master of horror, Stephen King.

This book explores the iconic film and television adaptations of King’s works with over 200 full colour illustrations.  Matt lamination and spot uv varnish enhance the case cover and matching red/black head and tail bands complete the look. The book is designed to make those eerie King moments come alive visually, and the layout and visuals really make it pop. 

The Pumpkin Gospel – CFM Religion Publishing Group

“The Pumpkin Gospel” adds a heartwarming element to our Halloween-themed books collection with a touching story that resonates with themes of hope, faith, and transformation offering a different perspective on Halloween. This board book has been punched into a pumpkin shape and inside glow in the dark pages capture the wonder of the season.  

Pumpkin Gospel
Harry Potter Piano Anthology

The Harry Potter Piano Anthology” – Faber Music UK 

No Halloween-themed books collection is complete without a touch of magic from the wizarding world. “The Harry Potter Piano Anthology” invites you to explore the soundtracks of J.K. Rowling’s creations. The foiling on the cover is a spectacular embellishment and uses the latest digital spot varnish and foiling technology to achieve the finest detail with a 3d effect.  Spellbinding!

Dancing Skeletons – Tunnel Vision Books 

“Dancing Skeletons” is a captivating tunnel book based around JosĂ© Guadalupe Posada’s famous skeleton etchings, so closely identified with the Mexican Day of the Dead. This expanding accordion is a feat of paper engineering and brings Posada’s playful etchings to life in 3D. Tunnel books are built around the concept of a theatrical stage set and are books to be experienced rather than read. First made popular in the 18th century, the user looks through an aperture on the front cover to discover a world of illusion and depth.

Skeletons tunnelbook
Detective bizarre with red filter

DĂ©tective du bizarre: Billy Brouillard et la chasse aux fantĂ´mes – Groupe Delcourt 

In “DĂ©tective du bizarre: Billy Brouillard et la chasse aux fantĂ´mes” by Guillaume Bianco, readers join the enigmatic Billy Brouillard on ghost-hunting adventures. This captivating story revolves around Billy, a supernatural detective, as he navigates a world of peculiar and spectral occurrences. With the help of an ingenious red-filter magnifying glass, the plot unfolds, revealing hidden mysteries and adding an extra layer of intrigue to the journey.

Fearsome Creatures of the Lumberwoods – Workman 

“Fearsome Creatures of the Lumberwoods” is a collection of 20 chilling tales, introducing a different kind of terror, one that dwells in the wilderness. This Halloween-themed book features glow in the dark ink on the cover and contents pages – those brave enough to turn out the lights will be in for a special fright.  

Fearsome creatures glowing in the dark
papertoy monsters

Papertoy Monsters – Workman  

For a hands-on Halloween experience, “Papertoy Monsters” provides the perfect solution. This book offers pre-scored and perforated paper crafting templates for 50 of the most weird and wonderful monsters you ever did see. The pages are designed to withstand the folding, cutting, and gluing involved in creating these fantastical creatures.  

Happy Halloween from Imago Group

Imago Group takes the lead in producing these Halloween-themed books for a variety of clients and publishers, offering a wide range of experiences, from spooky mysteries to creative adventures. Whether you’re into ghost stories, afterlife enigmas, or crafting paper monsters, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during Halloween.  Imago Group’s expertise, combined with the authors’ creativity, brings the art of bookmaking to life.

So, light a few candles, brew your favourite potion (or tea), and embark on a literary journey into the realms of the unknown. Happy Halloween reading! 

Find out more about the products Imago produces from our case studies!

To keep yourself up-to-date with our bone-chilling news and our premium book printing services that are sure to send shivers down your spine, don’t forget to join our newsletter.

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Essentials of Book Production Course

The Essentials of Book Production

Gain an understanding of the main issues and terminology used in book production and enjoy our Early Bird Offer!

Are you passionate about the world of publishing? Do you want to elevate your skills and knowledge to become a true industry pro? Look no further, because Imago Group Training has the perfect opportunity for you. We’re excited to announce the Early Bird Offer for our upcoming course, “The Essentials of Book Production.”

Save 15% on Registration Before October 26th!

Course Details

🗓️ Date: November 9, 2023
🏢 Location: Thame, Oxfordshire
🔥 Early Bird Price: ÂŁ378 + VAT – Original price: ÂŁ445 ex. VAT.

Here’s your chance to secure your spot and enjoy a fantastic 15% off on the course fee if you register before October 26th. This limited-time offer is your ticket to mastering the art and science of book production while keeping your budget intact.

Please email training@imagogroup.com for more information.

Delivering The Course

We’re delighted that industry expert Nancy Roberts has chosen to deliver the Essentials of Book Production on behalf of Imago at our head office in Thame.

Nancy spent 20 years in the publishing sector working in print production and operations for companies including Quadrille, Kingfisher, Penguin/DK and Cambridge University Press, where she led a global team of over 150 staff as Global Operations Director, Academic.

nancy roberts

She now has a portfolio career: she is the founder of Umbrella, a tech startup which uses data analytics, AI and machine learning to help businesses realise the benefits of a more diverse workforce, and she is also Head of Technology and Content at Maverick, providing specialist consultancy on production, technology and content to academic publishers and scholarly societies. She also co-runs Management In Publishing, providing bespoke management and leadership training and development tailored to the publishing industry. She has a PhD in Postcolonial Feminist Literary Theory and an Executive MBA from Cranfield University.

She is also a NED for Break the Mould and sits on various advisory boards, including We and AI, a non-profit aiming to inform the public about the risks and benefits of AI, and the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Board of the Science and Technology Facilities Council. 

Why You Should Join “The Essentials of Book Production” Course:

No matter your role in publishing, this course is tailored to enhance your day-to-day effectiveness. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Comprehensive Learning: Dive into the fascinating world of book production, from print plates to paper types. You’ll gain in-depth knowledge and practical skills that are essential for success in the publishing industry.
  2. Expert Instructors: Our course is led by seasoned industry professionals who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and experience with you. Learn from the best and stay ahead of the curve.
  3. Hands-On Experience: We believe in learning by doing. With practical exercises and real-world examples, you’ll be equipped to tackle book production challenges confidently.
  4. Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow enthusiasts, build your professional network, and exchange ideas and insights with like-minded individuals.
  5. Industry-Ready Skills: Upon completion of the course, you’ll be equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in your publishing career. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you become an industry pro!

Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in your professional development and join us in mastering the “Essentials of Book Production.”

What We’ll Cover

Basics of Colour Reproduction

  • CMYK and RGB
  • Understanding the differences and issues
  • Turning colour images into print
  • Dots
  • Vector & raster
  • Image and print resolution
  • Profiles
  • Colour proofs

The Printing Process

  • Understand the main processes and when best to use them
  • Offset litho –what it is
  • How a printing machine works
  • Tracking
  • Sheet and web printing
  • Seeing ink, plates & blanket
  • Digital & inkjet printing – how they work, quality and uses

Pre-press

  • Preparing material for print
  • Typical printer checks to PDF files
  • Some typical problems & how to avoid them
  • Imposition
  • Plotter proofs
  • Ripping and plates

The Binding Process

  • Different binding styles and things to consider when specifying them
  • Sewn, unsewn, paperback, cased, flex terminology
  • Stages in the binding & casing in process

Co-edition Printing

  • Understand the process
  • What it means and what it affects

Book Specifications

  • Understand the terminology
  • Learn how to draw up a good clear specification and to recognise when things are missing

Covers and Jackets

  • How to recognise the different finishes and materials
  • When and how to use and spec them
  • Imitation cloth
  • Gloss & matt lamination
  • Spot varnish
  • Foil blocking etc.

Paper

  • Main paper types and attributes
  • Learn how to evaluate paper and how to choose the appropriate paper for your subject matter and price point

Shipping & Pricing

  • Cartons
  • Packing instructions
  • Shipping documentation & terminology
  • Incoterms
  • Shipping timings

Imago Offices Thame

Register Your Interest

Please fill out the form below to find out more and book your space on the Essentials of Book Production course. A member of the team will be in touch with you to shortly discuss all details with you.

Join Imago at Frankfurt Book Fair 2023

Join Imago at Frankfurt Book Fair 2023

Join Imago Group at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2023

We are extremely thrilled to announce our participation at the 75th edition of the Frankfurt Book Fair!

Imago Group will take center stage at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2023, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome you to our booth. The Frankfurt Book Fair is the world’s premier event for publishers, authors, and print professionals, and we’re glad to be part of this literary event.

Event Details:

  • Date: October 18 – 22, 2023
  • Location: Frankfurt, Germany
  • Booth Number: Hall 6.1 – Booth C94
  • Opening Hours: Opening hours: 9:00 – 6:30 pm (Sundays until 5:30 pm)

Why Visit Imago Group at the Frankfurt Book Fair?

Discover Print Management Excellence

Imago Group specializes in providing cutting-edge print management solutions designed to meet the unique needs of publishers worldwide. If you’re looking for innovative ways to streamline your printing processes, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency, our booth is the place to be.

Engage with Industry Experts

Our team of print management experts will be on hand to answer your questions, provide insights, and offer guidance on how Imago Group’s solutions can benefit your publishing journey. Whether you’re a seasoned publisher or an aspiring author, our experts are here to assist you.

Explore Sustainability in Print

At Imago Group, we’re committed to eco-friendly print management practices. Join us at the Frankfurt Book Fair to learn about our sustainability initiatives and discover how we’re making print more environmentally responsible.

Where is The Frankfurt Book Fair 2023 Taking Place?

The full address is Ludwig-Erhard-Anlage 1, 60327 Frankfurt am Main, Germany  and you can get directions using the map provided below.

Frankfurter Buchmesse GmbH

How To Find Imago at The Frankfurt Book Fair

The Frankfurt Book Fair Floor Plan

Imago Group will be located at Booth #C94 in Hall 6.1. Our team will be ready to assist you, answer your questions, and provide personalised meetings.

Don’t Miss Out!

The Frankfurt Book Fair is a not-to-be-missed event for anyone passionate about books, publishing, and print management. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting your journey, Imago Group’s booth is where opportunities and insights await.

Meet Our Team

Imago Group Frankfurt Book Fair Team Member:

Book a Meeting with Imago at The Frankfurt Book Fair

We look forward to meeting you at the Frankfurt Book Fair and exploring how Imago Group can enhance your print management solutions. Together, let’s shape the future of the publishing industry!

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a one-on-one meeting with our experts during the event, please feel free to contact us:

martinas@imagogroup.com (European Sales)

selinas@imagogroup.com (UK Sales)

SLavelle@imagogroup.com (US Sales)

imago logo and ecovadis rating provider logo

Imago USA Rated in the Top 5% by Sustainability Rating Provider Ecovadis

Ecovadis, the universal sustainability ratings provider, recently audited Imago at the request of one of our US customers and measured our performance across 4 key areas including; the environment, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement. We are delighted to announce that Imago USA has achieved an overall EcoVadis rating in the top 5% of businesses that operate within printing and service activities related to printing.

At Imago, we understand the importance of ensuring that our business and our suppliers operate responsibly throughout the supply chain, both now and in the future. For this reason, we have developed our own robust and measurable ethical commitments, which are regularly audited and informed by reputable organisations including ClimatePartner, The Forest Stewardship Council, and now EcoVadis.

Who are Ecovadis?

As Imago has grown over the years with an ever-expanding network of global suppliers, we look to hold ourselves accountable for the impact our business has across the supply chain. However, it is also important that we are audited by organisations whose primary goal is to ensure that businesses are equipped to understand and overcome the environmental, social, and ethical risks they have.

For these reasons, Imago’s assessment by EcoVadis has provided us with clear and actionable ratings to understand our current impact and how we can work to improve.

Why EcoVadis?

The challenge for Imago is integrating the environmental, social, and ethical risks into the decisions we take for both ourselves and our customers, whilst ensuring that our supply network remains reliable and competitive. This is where EcoVadis can step in to provide us and our customers simple, reliable, visible, and global sustainability ratings across four key areas, the environment, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement.

How Ecovadis Rated Imago USA

Our latest overall score puts Imago USA in the top 5% of businesses that operate within our sector of printing and service activities related to printing. This means we more than qualify as a reputable service provider for our existing and prospective customers who only choose to use companies that meet EcoVadis’s minimum ratings score.

How is the Ecovadis rating conducted?

All EcoVadis rating audits are transparent and conducted by a team of international sustainability experts who analyze and crosscheck companies’ data and take into account the company’s industry, size, and geographical location.

The EcoVadis rating methodology is based on international sustainability standards (Global Reporting Initiative, United Nations Global Compact, ISO 26000), and supervised by a scientific committee of sustainability and supply chain experts, to ensure reliable third-party sustainability assessments.

ecovadis usa gold medal certificate

A Breakdown of Our Ecovadis Rating

  • Overall score  |  Imago USA is in the top 5% of companies rated by EcoVadis in the printing and service activities related to the printing industry.
  • Sustainable Procurement  |  Imago USA is in the top 1% of companies rated by EcoVadis in the printing and service activities related to the printing industry.

Choosing an Ecovadis Supplier

Choosing the right supplier for your print project can be an arduous task, and it is becoming increasingly important to opt for a provider who operates responsibly throughout the supply chain whilst offering high-quality and competitive pricing.

Imago has over 40 years of experience in managing print for businesses of all sizes and types across the world, each with its own standards in relation to ethical standards. As a business that holds a Gold EcoVadis Medal, when you choose Imago to look after your project, you can rest assured that your project will be completed to the highest possible standards with corporate responsibility entirely taken care of on your behalf.

Essentials of Book Production Course

The Course

Learn how books are manufactured and gain an understanding of the main issues and terminology used in book production.

This course is aimed at production staff and is also suitable for editors, sales or designers who need a better understanding of the manufacturing process. Each stage of the workflow is covered including colour, printing and binding, paper, pricing, and shipping.

There are a number of practical exercises throughout the day as well as visuals and physical samples – you will see what a printing plate looks like, what the inks are like in their raw state, and get to feel and compare the different paper types. You will cover the terminology used in book specifications and discuss the factors which affect the prices and schedules.

This course is an excellent all-round introduction to the production stages involved in the creation of a book and will help improve your day-to-day effectiveness, whatever your role within publishing.

Delivering The Course

We’re delighted that industry expert Nancy Roberts has chosen to deliver the Essentials of Book Production on behalf of Imago at our head office in Thame.

Nancy spent 20 years in the publishing sector working in print production and operations for companies including Quadrille, Kingfisher, Penguin/DK and Cambridge University Press, where she led a global team of over 150 staff as Global Operations Director, Academic.

nancy roberts

She now has a portfolio career: she is the founder of Umbrella, a tech startup which uses data analytics, AI and machine learning to help businesses realise the benefits of a more diverse workforce, and she is also Head of Technology and Content at Maverick, providing specialist consultancy on production, technology and content to academic publishers and scholarly societies. She also co-runs Management In Publishing, providing bespoke management and leadership training and development tailored to the publishing industry. She has a PhD in Postcolonial Feminist Literary Theory and an Executive MBA from Cranfield University.

She is also a NED for Break the Mould and sits on various advisory boards, including We and AI, a non-profit aiming to inform the public about the risks and benefits of AI, and the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Board of the Science and Technology Facilities Council. 

Course Details

Delivered in person by Nancy Roberts at Imago’s UK Offices in Thame, Oxfordshire.

Course Cost:
ÂŁ445 ex. VAT. Discounts are available for multiple bookings.

Please email training@imagogroup.com for more information.

Dates & Times Available

  • Thursday 30th May
  • 9:30am – 5pm

Imago Offices Thame

What We’ll Cover

Basics of Colour Reproduction

  • CMYK and RGB
  • Understanding the differences and issues
  • Turning colour images into print
  • Dots
  • Vector & raster
  • Image and print resolution
  • Profiles
  • Colour proofs

The Printing Process

  • Understand the main processes and when best to use them
  • Offset litho –what it is
  • How a printing machine works
  • Tracking
  • Sheet and web printing
  • Seeing ink, plates & blanket
  • Digital & inkjet printing – how they work, quality and uses

Pre-press

  • Preparing material for print
  • Typical printer checks to PDF files
  • Some typical problems & how to avoid them
  • Imposition
  • Plotter proofs
  • Ripping and plates

The Binding Process

  • Different binding styles and things to consider when specifying them
  • Sewn, unsewn, paperback, cased, flex terminology
  • Stages in the binding & casing in process

Co-edition Printing

  • Understand the process
  • What it means and what it affects

Book Specifications

  • Understand the terminology
  • Learn how to draw up a good clear specification and to recognise when things are missing

Covers and Jackets

  • How to recognise the different finishes and materials
  • When and how to use and spec them
  • Imitation cloth
  • Gloss & matt lamination
  • Spot varnish
  • Foil blocking etc.

Paper

  • Main paper types and attributes
  • Learn how to evaluate paper and how to choose the appropriate paper for your subject matter and price point

Shipping & Pricing

  • Cartons
  • Packing instructions
  • Shipping documentation & terminology
  • Incoterms
  • Shipping timings

Register Your Interest

Please fill out the form below to find out more and book your space on the Essentials of Book Production course. A member of the team will be in touch with you to shortly discuss all details with you.

child playing with toys birds eye view

The Course

An introductory level toy safety course aimed at production and other publishing staff who are responsible for product safety.

Developed specifically for publishers focused on the children’s market, this indispensable toy safety course takes you through the complex legal minefield of Toy Safety. The course assumes no prior knowledge and gives a general overview of the applicable legislation, showing you what your product needs to comply with and highlighting your obligations within the supply chain.

Illustrated with case studies, the course looks in detail at the requirements of the European Toy Safety Directive and the implications of Brexit on safety. US and international legislation is also covered as the legal requirements vary according to which market you are selling into. We also look at chemical safety, to give you a better understanding of hidden chemical hazards and help you analyse where the greatest risks lie.

Our course tutor, Diane Greaves, has worked in the area of children’s product safety for over twenty years as a test laboratory manager, hazard and risk assessor, and latterly as an independent consultant to the retail and publishing sectors. Diane sits as an independent expert on several of the Standards Committees. Her technical knowledge and common sense approach enable her to deliver this often daunting subject in a lively and reassuring way.

Course Details

Delivered in person by Diane Greaves at Imago’s UK Offices in Thame, Oxfordshire.

Course Cost:
ÂŁ445 ex. VAT. Discounts are available for multiple bookings.

Please email training@imagogroup.com for more information.

Dates & Times available:

  • 15th May 2024
  • 9:30am – 5pm

Delivering The Course

We’re delighted that industry expert Diane Greaves has chosen to deliver the Understanding Toy Safety Course on behalf of Imago at our head office in Thame.

Diane has worked in the safety of children’s consumer products for over twenty-five years, initially managing two laboratories, both of which were accredited to the testing of children’s toys, childcare articles, and nursery products.  She also became involved in the standardisation committees in the UK and EU for children’s toys, children’s clothing, and childcare articles; this involvement has continued to this day.

Imago Offices Thame

What We’ll Cover

The Legal Framework in Europe

  • How the law is structured
  • An overview of current toy safety legislation and the EN71 series of standards
  • Looking at the documents required in the technical file
  • Other applicable legislation including REACH, Phthalates, Azo Dyes, Total Cadmium, Electrical Safety of Toys EN62115, Battery Regs, EMC, WEEE, RoHS

The Impact of Brexit

  • How safety legislation has changed in Great Britain/UK the affect on products sold in NI

The Legal Framework in the US

  • How the law is structured
  • An overview of current toy safety legislation including CPSIA and ASTM F963
  • Other applicable legislation including LHAMA, D4236, Stuffing Regs, Proposition 65

Understanding Your Product

  • When is a book a toy and why it makes a difference
  • Making sure your product is age appropriate

Product Markings

  • Applying the CE and the UKCA Mark and using the correct warnings for the relevant market

Understanding How Your Product is Tested

  • Physical and mechanical for under 3s and over 3s
  • Flammability
  • Chemical Testing

Child Behaviour

  • A brief insight into child behaviour understanding the physical, mechanical, electrical, chemical hazards that will affect the safety of your product

Register Your Interest

Please fill out the form below to find out more and book your space on the Understanding Toy Safety course. A member of the team will be in touch with you to shortly discuss all details with you.

tree rising from a book

The Course

When the big sustainability topics of the day are carbon emissions, biodiversity loss, and overuse of plastic, how can your production team respond? What questions should you be asking of your printer and supply chain? What impacts do materials commonly used in the publishing industry have?

This training course has been designed to answer those questions, to help you develop and deliver sustainability goals and collect the information your business, customers & stakeholders need. We will look at three key sustainability goals that respond to all these factors, and where production teams can have a positive impact. We’ll look at a stepwise programme and at the useful information that can be gathered as you work towards your goals.

Delivering The Course

Meredith Walsh is a Sustainability Consultant and runs her own Environmental and Social Sustainability business. She provides consultancy to businesses that purchase and manufacture products helping them define and deliver their environmental and social sustainability goals.

Meredith has a wealth of publishing sector experience having spent over 15 years at Penguin Random House where she held the position of Supply Chain CR Specialist.   She has worked on cross-industry initiatives for carbon, paper, ethical trade, and sustainable printing, and has co-authored a book on the subject.

Imago Offices Thame

Course Details

Delivered in person by Meredith Walsh at Imago’s UK Offices in Thame, Oxfordshire.

Aimed at experienced production staff, decision makers, Production Managers & Directors.

Course Cost:

  • ÂŁ375
  • Lunch included

Dates & Times:

  • Wednesday 22nd May
  • 10.00 – 16.00 pm

What We’ll Cover

  • Learn how to set goals and priorities for your sustainability projects
  • Create stepwise programmes to meet your sustainability goals
  • The questions to ask in your supply chain, the data to gather and what to do with it
  • Learn about where carbon is produced along the value chain of book production and how to reduce it
  • Learn about where there is plastic in your supply chain and book, what you can change and what you can influence
  • Waste; reduction and recycling
  • Water use and its impact on communities
  • The impact of cover finish choices Inks and chemicals in printing, looking at pros, cons and options
  • Environmentally positive offsetting, rewilding

Register Your Interest

Please fill out the form below to find out more and book your space on the Understanding Toy Safety course. A member of the team will be in touch with you to shortly discuss all details with you.