
The web-to-print system will be established in partnership with UK chain Printing.com, and is expected to launch in the second half of 2013.
Whirlwind chief executive Andrew Cester said printers would find the Whirlwind service a cheaper and more comprehensive solution that setting up their own system.
"Cost is the main thing, but you've got to be able to get a system that can do work internally if you need it, can outsource effectively, can proof autonomously and link to a finance package," he told ProPrint.
"Most web-to-print systems have to be integrated into your operating system and there's an ongoing cost with that. We're saying to customers this can be your whole operating platform, and it does web-to-print."
[Feature: Whirlwind embraces online systems]
Cester also said the system would offer printers "complete risk-free accessibility".
"With availability to all our customers, this solution will remove the major costs of processing small orders. Creating a web shop online will be easy and come with all the backend support our customers need," he said.
"Printing.com have wanted Whirlwind to be their Australian partner for years, and finally, with the release of their latest web-to-print order systems, we felt they were the best on offer.
"In fact we have reviewed numerous systems from other world leaders, however this option has the greatest flexibility for our trade clients."
Cester said Printing.com's global development network would help Whirlwind remain at the forefront of web-to-print technology.
"We’ll be releasing the offer in the coming months and we are ready to make this opportunity a reality for our customers in Australia."
It finally marks the arrival of Printing.com on these shores, at least in some form.
The UK group made loud noises about setting up an Australian operation back in 2010, going as far as granting an option to John Stangeland, now at Heaneys Performers in Print, and promising it would arrive "by the end of the month", but the buyout of Worldwide Online from receivership put a spanner in the plans.
[Related: More news about web-to-print]
Comment below to have your say on this story.
If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.
Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter