The art of sign fabrication is responsible for many of the signage applications that we see in the world around us. For this reason, it is crucial that those sign-makers carrying out this type of work are operating in a forward-thinking manner in order to ensure they can meet the demands of the modern market. Here, SignLink speaks with a number of major suppliers from this area of the industry to get the inside track on the latest developments in sign fabrication, as well as those that operate in this market to find out how they are adapting for the modern markets and the changing requirements of customers. Expertise and resources One company well placed to offer advice and guidance on sign fabrication is William Smith Group 1832. Kyle Giles, marketing executive of the business, says sign fabrication is exactly what its title suggests, the fabrication of signage products, and as such applies to a wide range of sign types. “All signage products start off as a designed concept, more often than not they’re very bespoke and unique to the client,” Giles says, adding: “They comprise of many different raw materials which are converted to make the finished product. “There isn’t a set list of components that make up a sign, however, common material and component types include aluminium sheeting, steel posts, acrylics, LEDs, foamex, powder coatings, and screws and bolts. All of these come in various shapes, sizes, and colours.” When it comes to operating in this market, Giles says there are a number of considerations that sign-makers should keep in mind, namely expertise, resources, and customers, all of which are interlinked with one another and contribute to the overall quality and service provided. In terms of resource, Giles says having the appropriate equipment will make a significant difference to the quality of the product and efficiency of the processes. Some of the key sign-making equipment William Smith has on-site that is used day in, day out includes a 5m powder coat spray booth, several CNC routers with tool changing and image mapping capabilities, 100T press brake, guillotines, cross-draught extraction system, and a fully dedicated welding shop. Looking at expertise, Giles says it is important to have team members throughout every department that are knowledgeable and have the right skill sets to manufacture the products. Finally, with customers, Giles says EVOLVING SKILL SETS As sign fabrication continues to evolve with the modern market, we take a closer look at some of the latest developments in this sector and analyse how sign-makers are advancing their businesses 53 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES / SIGN FABRICATION The Smith Trade Signage arm of William Smith Group 1832 Issue 245 - February / March 2023 email: news@signlink.co.uk
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