➔ Interview with the founder of ColorSilk: Ismael Martins
One year ago, in November 2023, Ismael Martins set up ColorSilk, a company specialising in graphics workshops and digital printing. He chose CK to acquire professional printing equipment.
From design to manufacture, sales and installation, ColorSilk does everything it can to create products dedicated to promotion and printed communication.
From left to right: Alexandre Neves (ColorSilk Advertising Decorator),
Ismael Martins (Founder of ColorSilk), Julien Blusson (Sales Consultant CK)
In the year that ColorSilk has been in existence, what have been the highlights?
IM: For me, the most memorable moment was the challenge of launching ColorSilk on my own, with many new responsibilities: management, graphics, production, as well as customer service and accounting. We had to manage everything with rigour and precision. Today, we've found a rhythm and we're in a positive and growing dynamic.
Why did you choose CK as your partner for the acquisition of your equipment?
IM: Choosing CK was an easy choice. Having already worked with them in the past, it was a natural choice. Right from the start of the project, I needed a partner who could respond quickly to my needs. I was also looking for quality equipment and professional support. CK met these criteria perfectly.
How does quality translate for your customers, whether in terms of product rendering or customer service?
IM : Our customers are demanding, looking for both a printing service of impeccable quality and a fast, discreet partner. For them, choosing ColorSilk means opting for high quality printing and a reliable, responsive service.
Today, we have high-quality equipment to meet a variety of needs. These include the Konica Minolta AccurioPress C3080P for professional printing, such as flyers and business cards. The HP Latex 115 Print & Cut large-format printer is ideal for creating lettering and coverings. More recently, we acquired a DTF Azon printer, which offers the possibility of printing on textiles with white ink, thus expanding our production capacity.
What are your next objectives or innovations for ColorSilk?
IM : Our ambition is to build a solid and recognised company in the Luxembourg market. One of our next objectives is to acquire new skills to work with Luxembourg companies specialising in waste management, and to promote fair trade, particularly in the purchase of our raw materials. We are aiming to obtain labels such as OEKO-TEX, SDK and Made in Luxembourg. That's also why we chose CK, a company committed to sustainability.
In terms of printing, our short-term objective is to acquire a DTF UV printer and a laser cutting machine.
How was CK's technical support useful in setting up your equipment and getting your business off the ground?
IM : Right from the start, I wanted to get started with the best possible equipment. So I contacted CK to help me configure the right equipment. We didn't start with a full set of equipment, but with a limited budget. I put my trust in the experts in CK's large format department, who advised me on how to optimise my purchases and my financial resources. They were able to provide all the equipment we needed to launch the project.
Is there anything else you'd like to share about ColorSilk and your experience?
IM : Launching a project that requires extensive knowledge in a field that is constantly evolving technologically is never easy. Every time I make a decision, I can count on the support of my wife, whom I thank for always being by my side. Every day is a new step for me and for ColorSilk. I'd also like to thank the whole CK team - although I won't mention all the names so as not to forget anyone. In the future, we hope to make ColorSilk a company that will be the pride of Luxembourg.