The Sign Show 2026 opens its doors
The Sign Show has officially opened for 2026, with thousands of attendees set to descend on NEC Birmingham for the return of the annual signage and graphics showcase
Some 5,567 attendees were reported across the two shows this year, with some exhibitors also confirming a series of machinery sales that were completed during this year’s event
Organisers of The Print Show and co-located The Sign Show have reported a year-on-year increase in attendee numbers for the 2026 events to 5,567, with machine sales on the show floor also expected to run into the millions of pounds.
Both shows closed their doors yesterday (1st October) after three busy days in Hall 1 of the NEC in Birmingham – taking place at a slightly later time this year to avoid a direct clash with Printing UNITED Expo in the US.
There was a strong feeling of positivity among exhibitors and organisers alike when the final visitors left on Thursday afternoon, with many reporting kit sales, strong leads, and an overall solid performance across the shows.
The overall attendance figure of 5,567 represents a 4% increase on last year’s total of 5,336. However, organisers highlighted that the 2025 show included around 350 visitors from the PPMA Show, driven by a partnership between the two events. After excluding “crossover” visitors, attendance was 12% higher year-on-year.
“It really is a fantastic result for us as organisers,” says Chris Davies, event director of The Print Show and The Sign Show.
“We’ve had some incredible feedback from exhibitors, with several already saying that they want to rebook for next year. Keep an eye out on the show’s social media channels over the coming months for confirmation of returning exhibitors.
“On that note, we’ve also had interest from companies that have never exhibited before, and we very much look forward to sitting down with them soon to see how we can work together moving forward.”
Those in attendance at the show were able to view a whole range of new machines, with several exhibitors using the events to display kit in the UK for the first time.
Among these was Hybrid Services, the exclusive UK and Irish distributor for Mimaki, which was showing no less than three new UV flatbed printers. These included the large-format JFX220-2515, and the small-format UJF200 Series (UJF200-3042 and UJF200-6042).
The three printers were shown with RasterLink8, the latest generation of Mimaki’s RIP and workflow management software, with enhanced job management and automated alignment capabilities.
As well as manufacturers and suppliers using the shows as a launchpad for new products, organisers will be buoyed by the news that several exhibitors completed kit sales on site at the NEC.
CMYUK, which supplies various wide-format print solutions, had a successful few days with several deals. These included the sale of a new EFI VUTEk M3h 3.2m LED hybrid printer to Banner Box Print Solutions, with this agreed and signed off at the show.
In addition, Vivid Laminating Technologies sold several pieces of machinery during the show. Global Experience Specialists was one company that invested on site, picking up a new 3.2m Veloblade Nexus on the final day of the show.
Despite the two shows having only just closed their doors, Davies says thoughts are already turning towards next year and how the events can improve again.
“We’ll take time to regroup and relax before sitting down as a team to begin planning for the 2027 shows,” he says, adding: “It’s safe to say you can expect much more next September.”
The Print Show and The Sign Show 2027 will take place from September 21st to 23rd in Hall 1 of the NEC.
