Nova Aluminium Systems: A Blend of Experience, Innovation, and Customer Focus

Founded in 2005 by Paul Harvey, Nova Aluminium Systems was formed from extensive experience within production and design to provide improved systems for signage and glazing.

Having been involved in the design of many industry-standard systems across the country, Nova give its founders the platform to go back to the drawing board and implement feedback from installers and users in order to make aluminium systems that are more modern and easier to fabricate.

Having recently celebrated its 20th anniversary and gained recognition at The Sign Industry Awards, SignLink takes a look at this supplier of essential sign-making materials.

Quality Customer Service

Nova was originally formed by Paul Harvey, recent winner of the Outstanding Contribution Award at The Sign Industry Awards, who with Paul Vickery and three other directors created a solid foundation of experience in sales, purchasing, accounts, and processing.

Following the departure of the other directors, and the early retirement of Vickery, Harvey continued to helm the ship though the aftermath of the pandemic and reshape Nova to the business it is today.

By simplifying designs and processes, we help customers save time and resources without compromising on results

Primarily focusing on providing aluminium signage systems that cater to sign-makers and printers, the company’s flagship offerings include illuminated lightboxes, rigid panel frames, overhead lighting systems, flex systems, as well as internal signage systems, including a range of soft signage extrusions.

Lisa Sperring, sales and marketing manager at Nova, who has been with the company since the early days of its formation, says: “Our expertise extends beyond signage to designing, extruding, and stocking bespoke aluminium extrusions for various applications.

“As a fully integrated operation, we handle manufacturing, powder coating, and delivery in-house, ensuring quality and reliability at every stage.”

Recently the company has made significant investments in its operations in order to expand its products and ensure production can happen in-house. In 2023, Nova invested in a powder coating facility that featured the longest oven in the Bristol area. “This upgrade has significantly reduced lead times by allowing us to maintain full control of production processes,” says Sperring.

In 2024, the company added a 3m x 2m flatbed CNC router and a blind rivet machine to enhance its manufacturing capabilities. Additionally, Nova renovated its offices with new desks and PCs, in order to reflect its commitment to providing a modern and efficient workplace for its staff.

“The addition of Paul Harvey’s sons, Ben and Jamie, has injected fresh energy into the business,” adds Sperring. She continues: “Ben joined in 2019, starting in transport before excelling in the glazing department and ultimately taking on a management role. In 2024, Jamie brought his background as a qualified electrician to the team, introducing innovative ideas such as pre-wired photocells in lightboxes and overhead lights.

“Both have been instrumental in driving innovation and modernisation, from new signage systems to extensive office rewiring projects. In 2021, the company underwent a comprehensive rebrand, updating its logo, literature, uniforms, vehicle livery, and website to reflect its modern approach and growing capabilities.”

When it comes to new products, Nova recently released its 50mm double-sided NovaTex profile, which is made for fabric-faced signage and projection screens. Additionally, Sperring says that the company’s 75mm NovaComp fascia frame is a bestseller for non-illuminated flex face signage.

“Continuous updates, such as the redesign of the 40mm NovaTex profile, highlight our dedication to improvement based on customer feedback,” explains Sperring, who adds: “We are fortunate that 90% of materials we use are fully recyclable. Carrying out all processes in house saves on logistics, carrying goods to and from third party suppliers.”

Sperring emphasises that the company’s systems are designed with ease of use in mind so that sign-makers can deliver signage they are proud of. “We recently redesigned a flex frame for a customer, saving them 27% in costs while reducing installation time from three days to two. This innovative approach maintained quality while improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness. By simplifying designs and processes, we help customers save time and resources without compromising on results.”

A Bright Future

Nova’s ethos is rooted in investing in the future according to both Paul Harvey and Sperring. The company’s philosophy means it will continue to invest in new machinery, vehicles, and team development. Nova’s current vehicle fleet (which are all less than three years old) are testament to its philosophy as it delivers 90% of its goods through its own fleet with dedicated drivers supported by tracking systems that keep customers up to date on deliveries.

Speaking of the company’s customer service, Sperring says: “Exceptional customer service is at the heart of Nova Aluminium Systems. We prioritise clear communication, prompt responses, and tailored solutions to ensure every project meets our clients’ specifications. By focusing on long-term relationships built on trust and reliability, we aim to be a dependable partner for every client. Our in-house manufacturing and delivery processes give us control over quality and timelines as all processes are now carried out in house, setting us apart in the industry.”

In the past few years, a big challenge within the signage industry has been demonstrating the creativity and potential of the work. As evident in the inclusion of Ben and Jamie Harvey, Nova is keen to encourage young people into the signage industry and develop their skills in order to create the next generation of sign-makers. “We embrace innovation by empowering the next generation to bring fresh ideas to the table,” says Sperring.

“Sharing our expertise with them ensures the industry continues to evolve and thrive. This approach allows us to adapt to modern trends while preserving the knowledge and skills that have driven our success.”

Nova Aluminium Systems represents a perfect blend of experience, innovation, and customer focus

Sperring adds that the dynamic nature of the industry means that no two days are ever the same, especially when you consider how products have evolved over the past two decades. In turn this makes signage a more exciting prospect to the next generation thanks to its fast-paced nature and innovation.
Speaking of Nova’s aspirations and aims, Sperring concludes: “Nova Aluminium Systems represents a perfect blend of experience, innovation, and customer focus. As we celebrate 20 years in the industry, our commitment to investing in people, processes, and products remains unwavering.

“Looking to the future, we aim to build on this legacy by nurturing talent and ensuring that the next generation is equipped to lead the company forward. Our sincere gratitude goes to our clients, employees, and stakeholders for their continued trust and support in our vision.”

Statistics

2005 – The company was founded in 2005 by Paul Harvey and Paul Vickery
40,000sq ft – Nova operates from a 40,000sq ft facility in central Bristol
48 – Currently employs 48 members of staff
2023 – Invested in a state-of-the-art powder coating facility