Sign-makers celebrate wins at Sign Awards

March 22^nd saw a wave of sign businesses descend on Birmingham for the inaugural Sign Awards, the first award show dedicated to UK signage in four years.

The ceremony was organised by the team behind the UK Graphic Awards and Vism founder Dan Tyler. Held at Birmingham’s prestigious Town Hall, the evening acted as an opportunity for many businesses to celebrate success, reflect on the past four years of challenges, and network with fellow professionals in the sign-making community.

The evening started with a packed venue as attendees were welcomed with drinks and refreshments before moving to the main hall where no time was wasted. ITV presenter Emma Jesson welcomed attendees and organisers before starting the awards ceremony before a three course dinner.

Awards were presented on stage by Jesson along with sponsors who announced gold winners following the companies that won silver and bronze.

The atmosphere and excitement in the room was palpable as many companies and individuals have likely been restricted in regard to socialising and attending such events due to the effects of challenges like the pandemic.

Big winners of the night included Sovereign Signs, Off The Wall Creative, Astra Group, and Goodwin & Goodwin which won silver in the architectural sign category along with overall winner of the Signage Company of the Year (under 30 employees).

Signwriting and sustainability were two areas that were celebrated with Custom Signwriting winning gold in the Roll-out and Traditional Sign categories.

Stating the reason for its wins, the team at The Sign Awards say: “The Rainbow sign at Beavertown brewery is a masterpiece, and the judges agreed about its complexity and beauty.

Speaking about the roll-out win, a project undertaken for fast food chain Slim Chickens, the team states: “The judges, Michelle, Cameron, and Paul, were all impressed with the project and gave it a golden prize. They particularly liked using different substrates and hand-painted bricks, which they thought were beautifully executed. The judges also appreciated how the city's artwork was incorporated into the design, giving it a unique and authentic feel.”

Founder of Make It Happen Signage Consultancy, Sam Armstrong, won the Industry Champion award, which led to her giving a massive thank you to everyone attending and expressing her love and passion for the industry.

Other highlights included Spencer Signs winning gold in the Architectural Sign category and the Best in Show award for its Harrier Park sign, as well as Greens the Signmakers winning Signage Company of the year (30+ employees) and the Sustainability in Signage award.

Speaking about the ceremony Tyler comments: “We’ve been absolutely blown away by the response from the industry to our inaugural event. The energy inside the room on the night was incredible, and having just about caught up on sleep now, we’re excited to do it all again!”

If you’d like to share news or opinions with us feel free to email at news@signlink.co.uk or join in with the conversation on Twitter and LinkedIn.