The British Sign Awards 2018

Now in their fifth year, the British Sign Awards are organised by the BSGA to showcase the outstanding talent of British signmakers and to provide tangible rewards to the very best.

The award categories have been developed to cover every aspect of the increasingly diverse signage industry, with prizes for everything from architectural ‘statement’ signs and wayfinding schemes, through vehicle liveries and ‘wraps’ , to the increasingly important interior décor sector.

In recognition of the fact that by far the greatest number of sign makers are SMEs there is also a special award for the ‘Small Sign Business of the Year’ which is open to any business employing from 1 – 5 people. Entrants are invited to submit a body of work completed over a 12 month period.

There is also a special award for The Young Signmaker of the Year – anyone aged up to 25 – and candidates can be nominated by their employer or by their college or training provider.  The aim of the award is to highlight the important role young people have to play in the industry and the need for  structured training to enhance their abilities and future careers.  This year, for the first time, the winning entries will receive cash (or voucher) prizes of £300 for the winner and £100 to two highly commended entrants.

While the awards are organised by the BSGA, they are open to all UK-based sign or associated business.  Membership of the Association is not a requirement for entry.

“The awards are organised as a service to the whole industry and we are pleased to accept entries from both BSGA members and non-members,” says David Catanach, Director of the BSGA.  “Anyone producing signs in the UK is entitled to enter and we are also keen to see entries for the Vehicle Graphics Awards from businesses that have specialised in this growing sector.”

The awards are judged by a panel of independent industry experts to ensure a level playing field for all.

Full details on all the awards categories and entry forms can be found on the dedicated awards website at www.britishsignawards.org

Closing date for entries is Friday, September  7.

The Awards Event

The awards will be presented at a Gala Event at the Athena Centre, located in the heart of Leicester’s cultural quarter, on Thursday, November 8^th.

The event is unique in the industry because it is the only one that is entirely focused on the work of signmakers.

“The awards brings together the whole industry in a convivial if highly competitive atmosphere and provides an opportunity for sign businesses to see the best work produced over the preceding 12 months,” said David Catanach.  “It is also a brilliant networking forum, providing signmakers and industry suppliers with a fantastic opportunity to come together in a relaxed atmosphere.”

Host at this year’s event will be six time world snooker champion Steve Davis.  Now a television pundit  and an acclaimed DJ, Steve is also an accomplished and very funny after dinner speaker.

The event is held during the day, starting this year at 1.00pm with a reception, followed by a three course lunch and then presentation of the awards.

“Our aim in staging the event during the daytime is to make it as accessible and cost-effective to as many sign makers as possible,” said David Catanach.  “The location and timing means that sign makers from all over the country can attend without the need for an overnight stay.”

Full details of the event and how to obtain tickets can be found on the awards website at www.britishsignawards.org