You are in:
Sign of the times
The show promises a diverse exhibitor profile, with traditional techniques showcased alongside modern advances to create a multi-faceted event. A number of significant names have signed up including Axyz Automation, Daktronics, Grafityp, Spandex, Ashby Trade Signs, Avery Dennison, Canon, Robert Horne and William Smith. A full exhibitor list can be found by visiting the event website.
Country manager for Spandex UK, Phil McMullin, said: "The aim of The Sign Show is to focus on everyday sign making items. Spandex is keen to meet face-to-face with the UK sign making community and underline its commitment to the sign industry in general."
Visitors will be treated to a variety of unusual demonstrations, including a live vehicle wrapping, the latest advances in 3D digital technology and a LED conference in association Photonics Cluster.
Also on view will be a demonstration area hosted by Peter Millichamp of Createx UK. It will feature a pub exterior mock-up with fascias, windows, hanging signs and sales boards. The display will be created live throughout the event using both traditional and modern equipment and techniques. Visitors will be encouraged to participate in the hands-on demonstration.
Seminar programme
A full seminar programme will run across the three days addressing a variety of subjects aimed at signmakers who want to improve or grow their business. Speakers will discuss topics including: approaching key sign buyers, introducing new skills into your business, future trends and fashions in the industry, pricing strategy and understanding legislation.
HP, for example, will host seminars on understanding digital print technologies and greener alternatives to existing digital inks. HP's Laura de la Pascua said: "In response to the need for reducing the environmental impact of printing, HP has developed new water-based inkjet inks and printers designed for commercial and industrial printing applications. We are happy to be updating signmakers on the advances."
The Sign Show will also host the Sign Industry Awards 2008, supported by the BSGA.
Added extras
Entrance to The Sign Show is free, with free seminars and parking. On arrival visitors will be presented with a voucher booklet containing offers that can be redeemed at various exhibitor stands. This will include product give-a-ways and money off signmaking supplies.
Every visitor will also be entered into a free prize draw to win a 44in Canon IPF 8000S printer, provided by Velmex. The printers are ideal for professional print service providers who need to produce more output in less time and visitors will be able to see the prize printer in action throughout the show on stand D2.
Managing director of Velmex, Mark Keeley, said: "The Sign Show is targeted at people working at the heart of the sign and display industry, so both Canon and Velmex are delighted to offer this prize. The printer is targeted squarely at the sign and display print market, so the winner will be absolutely delighted I'm sure."
The Canon S-series, has been specifically designed for volume production of display graphics, posters and print-for-pay. With a maximum print resolution of 2400 by 1200dpi, the new imagePrograf S-series is ideal for production print shops looking to produce posters, signage and display materials faster than ever before.
The draw for the printer will be made on the final day of the show.
Event director, Ed Torniainen, concluded: "Preparations for The Sign Show are well under way, and our aims of creating an event that fulfils the needs of sign professionals is being realised. We look forward to welcoming you at the show."
