The AA marks 120 years since historic first road sign
The signage division of the AA has marked the 120th anniversary of its very first road sign, which was erected in Hatfield to show the place name and mileages to nearby towns
Signage franchise, Signs Express, will present its new Rebrand Proposition and Conversion Resale models at The Sign Show in September

Signage and graphics franchise, Signs Express, has announced two new business models designed to support independent signage companies across the UK.
Complimenting its existing Resale and Start-Up models, the new Rebrand Proposition and Conversion Resale models offer flexible solutions designed to help owners grow, transition, or sell their business, while maintaining local legacy and maximising long-term success.
The models will be officially launched at The Sign Show at the NEC Birmingham, taking place from September 23rd to 25th. Experts from Signs Express will be exhibiting on Stand S35, discussing the potential benefits of joining the nationwide signage franchise.
The Sign Show will take place alongside The Print Show for 2025, aiming to act as the UKโs โannual dedicated sign expoโ and pledging to establish a show focused on signage solutions alongside print.
The new models are part of Signs Expressโ wider expansion strategy of creating meaningful opportunities for established business owners in what it labels as โan increasingly competitive market.โ
The Rebrand Proposition model is aimed at independent signage or print businesses seeking to scale, but facing barriers such as limited marketing reach, increasing operational costs, or a lack of structured support.
The model allows business owners to rebrand their existing operations as a Signs Express centre, gaining access a national network, exclusive supplier rates, dedicated franchise support, and a range of industry tools and systems, while retaining full ownership and control.
Aaron Davis, network development director at Signs Express, says: โThis model gives business owners the best of both worlds โ freedom to run their business, with the support and structure to accelerate growth.โ
โOur goal is to empower local signage experts with the tools and backing they need to thrive in todayโs market.โ
The Conversion Resale model offers a managed route for business owners to sell their signage business on a โno sale, no feeโ basis.
Signs Express acts as a broker, managing the end-to-end sales process and marketing the business under the Signs Express name to attract buyers.
Once sold, the business is rebranded as a Signs Express centre, aiming to offer the buyer a ready-to-trade operation with the support of a recognised franchise.
Davis adds: โSelling a business can be a stressful and expensive process, especially for owner-operators. We aim to remove those barriers, making the transition as smooth and beneficial as possible for all involved.โ
The Sign Show at the NEC Birmingham, takes place from September 23rd to 25th. Those wishing to attend this yearโs edition of The Sign Show can register for free at the following link.ย