On 16 September 2026, Pantone launched its biggest update to the Graphics range in years — 224 brand new colours added to the PMS library across all the core Graphics guides. At Graphics Direct, as Pantone’s authorised UK partner, we were one of the first stockists in the UK to have the new 2026 C-series guides in stock. Here’s everything you need to know about what’s changed, what’s new, and whether you need to upgrade.
What’s new in the 2026 Pantone Graphics range?
The headline change is 224 brand new PMS colours — bringing the total in the Formula Guide to 2,614 colours, and the Color Bridge to 2,587 colours. These aren’t minor tweaks. The new colours are described by Pantone as “market-driven additions that burst with nostalgia and joy” — expect saturated brights, revived retro tones, and expanded neutrals across the spectrum.
This is also the first major redesign of the guide format since 2019, with a new colour coding system on the spine and updated ink formulas across the board. The new guides use the C suffix to distinguish them from the previous B-series — so GP1601C replaces GP1601B, GG6103C replaces GG6103B, and so on.
How many colours has Pantone added since 2010?
To put the 2026 additions in context, here’s the full history of Pantone colour additions since 2010:
| Year | New colours added | Cumulative total |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 224 new colours | First Plus Series launch |
| 2012 | 336 new colours | 50th Anniversary edition |
| 2014 | 84 new colours | Plus Series updated |
| 2016 | 112 new colours | Plus Series updated |
| 2019 | 294 new colours | New guide design introduced |
| 2022 | 229 new colours | B-series guides launched |
| 2026 | 224 new colours | 2,614 total — C-series launch |
That’s 1,503 new colours added since 2010. If your Formula Guide is from 2019 or earlier, you’re potentially missing over 500 colours that could already be appearing in client briefs, brand guidelines, and packaging specifications.
The new 2026 C-series guides — what’s available
Pantone Formula Guide GP1601C
The essential starting point — two portable fan decks covering all 2,614 PMS spot colours on coated and uncoated paper. Updated ink formulas including five new bio-renewable base inks. This is the guide every designer and print professional needs to own. View GP1601C →
Pantone Color Bridge GG6103C (Coated) and GG6104C (Uncoated)
The Color Bridge guides cross-reference all 2,587 PMS spot colours to their nearest CMYK, RGB and HTML equivalents — essential for any designer who works across both print and digital. Available separately for coated and uncoated, or as a set. View GG6103C →
Pantone Solid Chips GP1606C
Loose removable chips in both coated and uncoated — ideal for sharing colour approvals with clients and production teams without handing over the whole fan guide. Contains all 2,614 colours. View GP1606C →
Bundle sets — best value for studios
Pantone has updated all of its bundle sets for 2026. The Solid Guide Set GP1605C (four guides including Formula, Metallics, Pastels & Neons) and the Portable Guide Studio GPG304C (eight guides in a carry case) represent the best value for studios that need comprehensive colour coverage. Browse all 2026 bundles →
Do I need to buy a completely new guide or can I just buy the supplement?
This is the question we’re asked most. The honest answer depends on how old your current guide is.
If your guide is from 2022 or 2019, Pantone produces a supplement — a smaller fan deck containing only the 224 new colours — which you can use alongside your existing guide. This is the most cost-effective way to stay current if your existing guide is still in good physical condition (colours haven’t faded).
If your guide is from 2016 or earlier, we’d recommend replacing it entirely. Colour chips in older guides fade over time when exposed to light and heat, meaning your specified colours may no longer match what comes off press. With 1,503 colours added since 2010, an older guide is a meaningful liability in professional colour-critical work.
If you’re unsure which is right for you, call us on 01423 359 730 — we’re always happy to give an honest recommendation.
New ink formulas — the change most people haven’t noticed
Beyond the new colours, the 2026 guides introduce updated ink mixing formulas across the system. Pantone has moved to 11 bio-renewable, barium-free base inks replacing the previous 18-ink system. This means the ink formulas printed on the guide strips have changed for many existing colours — not the colours themselves, but the way they’re mixed. For print shops and ink mixers, this is a significant practical update that makes a full guide replacement more compelling than just buying the supplement.
Where to buy the new 2026 Pantone guides in the UK
As Pantone’s authorised UK partner, Graphics Direct stocks the complete 2026 C-series range with same-day despatch on orders placed before 3:15pm and free standard UK delivery on all orders over £75. All guides are genuine current-edition stock — not grey market imports.
We also offer a 10% discount off the standard Pantone RRP across the full 2026 range.
Shop all 2026 Pantone Graphics Guides →
Questions about which guide is right for you? Call 01423 359 730 or email sales@graphicsdirect.co.uk — we know these products inside out and we’re always happy to help.
Graphics Direct (GDL Supplies Ltd) — official authorised UK Pantone Partner since 1998.