The Sign Show to host ‘School of Wrap’

The Sign Show has announced details of a special feature ahead of its debut later this year, titled the ‘School of Wrap’.

The Sign Show is billing itself as the dedicated sign expo for the UK market. Running from September 23rd to 25th in Hall 3 of the NEC in Birmingham, The Sign Show is seeking to fill a gap in the market for an event that is entirely focused on sign-making.

The School of Wrap area, which will be free to access, will cover topics including vehicle wrapping and architectural wraps, aiming to offer valuable insight into these markets. The full timetable will be revealed closer to the event.

Visitors will be able to see live demonstrations from wrapping specialists, Q&A sessions with industry experts, as well as the opportunity to try out wrapping vehicles, furniture, and various other items first-hand.

The School of Wrap will be hosted in partnership with several wrapping specialists. CVi Group, a provider of industry-specific training programmes and contract labour within the wrapping sector, will be leading the vehicle graphics area, while All Print Supplies and spAce Architectural Interior Films will showcase opportunities in architectural wrapping.

In addition, FESPA UK will support the area through its Waste Accreditation initiative, which has been adopted by many as the industry standard for print, signage, and graphics in the UK.

As part of the Waste Accreditation initiative, FESPA UK will be on hand to recycle any waste material that is generated from the demos and hands-on experiences taking place across the area.

Chris Davies, event director of The Sign Show, says: “The School of Wrap will serve as the centrepiece of what is shaping up to be an incredible debut event.

“We’re absolutely delighted to be working with some of the leading names in UK wrapping talent and opening visitors’ eyes to opportunities within this creative sector.”

Speaking about the support from FESPA UK, Davies adds: “It is also fantastic to have the support of FESPA UK and their Waste Accreditation initiative, showing that sign businesses can carry out wrapping work and are able to hit their sustainable goals.”

Valuable Insights

Vehicle wrapping highlights at the inaugural edition of the School of Wrap include sessions on wrapping theory such as preparation, film capabilities, and the key factors to consider, as well as a closer look at the particular properties of vehicle wrap film.

Visitors will also gain insight into install-specific tools and vehicle preparation methods, as well as the opportunity to view live demonstrations of tricky applications including wing mirrors.

As for architectural wrapping, highlights include an introduction to the sector and the many opportunities for growth, a look at the type of products used in these applications, and expert advice on what tools to use.

Attendees can also learn about substrates and preparing surfaces for wrapping as well as view live demonstrations of specialist corner finishing.

Driving the Industry

Commenting on the new feature, Scott Davis, sales director of All Print Supplies, one of several experts who will be on hand throughout, says it will help to educate people about opportunities in wrapping.

Davis says: “The Sign Show is a fantastic platform for collaboration, learning, and networking, and we are proud to be part of an event that continues to drive the industry forward.”

Tiffany Parkin, architectural manager at spAce Architectural Interiors, adds: “This event is all about celebrating innovation, creativity, and the latest advancements in architectural signage and interior branding – something we’re truly passionate about.

“We’re excited to collaborate with industry professionals, exchange ideas, and contribute to an event that continues to drive the sector forward.”

Chris Edwards, director at CVi Group, will also be in attendance, showcasing his skills in vehicle wrapping.

Edwards says: “For me, it’s about helping educate people that don’t have the knowledge but want to learn, or those that feel they should know more but are not confident enough to ask for help. We want to spread the word on our industry to get younger people coming through.”

Suzi Ward, managing director of FESPA UK, and Jon Hutton, director at FESPA UK, add: “We are delighted to support The Sign Show and this exciting feature.

“As part of our ongoing Waste Accreditation initiative, we will work closely with the show to capture and responsibly dispose of material waste generated throughout the School of Wrap.”