Sign & Digital UK, which ran from 21 to 23 March, brought thousands back together to share information, network and, most importantly, do business. The positive experience for exhibitors has led to a record number rebooking already for next year’s event.
Exhibitors across the hall, large and small, met and exceeded their targets for the event, and many said they took several orders on the stand. Event director, Jenny Matthew, said, “It was really encouraging to hear that so many of our exhibitors took orders during the show. Sign and Digital UK has always been known as a ‘selling’ show, and this year it certainly earned that label.”
The visitor experience continues to improve, with more features and services introduced to help educate, inform and guide sign-makers attending the event. The Explains Lounge, run in conjunction with the ISA UK trade association, saw more than 30 people presenting or being part of expert panels over the three days, with many interesting and informative sessions standing room only. Craig Brown, CEO of ISA UK, said, “We had some really interesting sessions this year and this was reflected in the numbers of people coming to see them and also in the questions they asked. I certainly learned a lot, and the feedback I received suggests many others did too.”
Alongside the Explains Lounge was the Sign Surgery, which allowed visitors to spend time with individual members of the panels and the ISA directors to ask questions and receive advice. “As the trade association for the UK sign industry, it was so valuable to be able to spend time with sign-makers from across the country at the show. We had lots of great discussions, and we also did our best to answer questions and explore new ideas and initiatives,” adds Craig. Also, the Sign Studio with Paul Hughes ran eight sessions a day demonstrating vinyl application onto walls and vehicles. This was hugely popular, drawing big crowds and very positive comments.
Not only that, the Hexis Wrap Battle contest was hugely popular and ran throughout the show. The competition was incredibly stiff, with all the heats and finals drawing big crowds and encouraging their favourites. The final took place on the last day and was won by Chris Hooper of Wrap Worx. Congratulations also to Oli Goodman of Wrap Capital, who came second and Aleksejs Kosarevs of AKtints LTD, who came third.
Jenny Matthew concludes, “It felt like the industry was well and truly back and looking as healthy as ever. It is so encouraging for us to see how people respond to Sign and Digital UK. It is an important part of the industry’s calendar and a great opportunity to get together, reconnect with old friends and do some great business. We spent a lot of time throughout the show talking to visitors and exhibitors about how to keep improving the experience, and we have lots of ideas for 2024. I would like to say a big thank you to all the exhibitors, visitors, partners and media supporters who came to the show, and we look forward to seeing you all again next year.”
Sign & Digital UK returns to the NEC, Birmingham from 27 to 29 February 2024 and is free to attend for visitors. Visit www.signuk.com for more information.
