3M brings brand assurance to UK

3M has launched the 3M Select partner programme for the printing and application of print wrap films in the rail and fleet markets in the UK and Ireland.

3M Select, launched by the Commercial Graphics division, is a global initiative which the company claims offers customers the assurance of dealing with a qualified partner backed by certification and a comprehensive warranty.

3M Select, already been introduced in the US, Canada, Germany and Benelux, has two levels in the UK and Ireland – Platinum and Gold. Currently, four companies are qualified as 3M Select Platinum Partners and seven as 3M Select Gold Partners.

Pen Webley, 3M Commercial Graphics division senior marketing executive, said, ‘Global, national and regional businesses rely on 3M Commercial Graphics products to protect their brand identity. 3M shares customers’ commitment to their brand. The 3M Select programme is a realisation of that and brand owners can approach a 3M Select partner with complete confidence.

‘For global companies, there is the added benefit that the criteria are harmonised globally. The 3M Select programme is a long term programme and will be our primary marketing focus for fleet and rail.’

3M Select partners are qualified according to 15 criteria, which cover equipment and quality of work. These include:

• Adherence to a 3M Code of Content
• Execution of a Matched Component System (MCS) quality test
• Submission to an annual audit by 3M personnel.

3M Select is supported by the MCS Warranty, which guarantees that all elements of a graphic (film, ink, adhesive and protective coating) will perform well together over an extended period, whatever the weather brings.