Currie Group maintains wide format momentum through 2026
Major industry supplier returns to Sign + Print Expo as an established presence in the New Zealand signage sector.
Now well established as an end to end wide format solutions supplier, Currie Group is making the most of opportunities to show local signage and print companies its portfolio.
At the upcoming 2026 Sign + Print Expo, Paul Whitehead, Business Unit Manager – Sign & Display Currie Group, will discuss the company’s solutions with expo visitors. Accompanying Paul, Currie Group New Zealand country manager Craig Paul and newly appointed business development officer Shea Lees-Thomas will round out an expo team brimming with knowledge and expertise.
Fresh from attending Fespa Global Expo 2026 in Barcelona, Paul Whitehead is eager to share the latest trends and
industry information with Kiwi signage and print professionals. He says, “Fespa provided an opportunity for Currie Group to consolidate its position as an industry leader that supplies a complete offering in this space. With major industry brands like Canon, EFI, Epson, Elitron, and Neolt Factory on board, Currie Group brings a comprehensive portfolio to the table for the New Zealand industry.”
One of the significant features of Currie Group’s offering is the way the solutions complement rather than compete. Paul says, “We have taken great care to position each solution within a specific niche in our portfolio. It is important that our customers can select the ideal solution for their business and of course, upgrade to a new one as their business grows.”
Another advantage for Currie Group customers is the quality of Currie Group’s award winning service and support team. Paul says, “Currie Group has a hard won reputation for uncompromising service and support. We believe in maintaining lasting partnerships with our customers, which pays off when they call on our service and support team. Over time, our customers know they can rely on us.
At the 2026 Sign + Print Expo, Currie Group will demonstrate two printers to the local market: the Canon Colorado M5W and the Epson SureColor S8160.
Canon Colorado M5W
Designed to deliver high volume printing and exceptional print quality, this
Matt Tangey and Paul Whitehead of Currie Group, which has been awarded the Top Global Partner Canon Colorado 2025 Award
WIDE FORMAT
industrial-grade UVgel printer makes a welcome addition for signage and print shops producing wide format graphics, indoor and outdoor signage, posters, wall coverings, and more.
Thanks to UVgel technology, the Colorado M5W ensures fast-drying and durable prints, offering a significant advantage for businesses with high speed production needs.
Paul says, “One of the standout features of the Colorado M5W is its ability to produce detailed and vibrant colours even at high speeds. UV inks enhance the durability of prints against outdoor conditions while ensuring significantly lower energy consumption. Features such as dual roll feeding and automatic roll switching enable quick transitions between different materials, boosting productivity. Additionally, its low maintenance requirements reduce operator workload and provide greater ease of use.
Key features of the Canon Colorado M5W include:
• UVgel Ink technology
• High print quality
• Fast production
• Dual roll feeding
• Automatic roll switching
• Wide material compatibility
• Durable prints
• Low energy consumption
• User-friendly interface
• Minimal maintenance requirements
• White without worry
• Ability to print matte or gloss combination
Epson SureColor S8160
Aimed at signage and print shops requiring high productivity without comprising print quality, the Epson SureColor S8160 touts a compact and efficient design and features the latest generation print head and a sixcolour ink set.
It delivers the highest productivity of the SureColor S-Series product lineup. Paul says, “Small, medium and large shops producing signs, banners, stickers, and vehicle wraps will love the innovative features in this printer.
The 64 inch SureColor S8160 uses a six-colour UltraChromeGS3 ink set that includes Light Cyan and Light Magenta, to help minimise banding, even at the fastest production speeds.
Its fast-drying ink set gives the ability to mix and match ink packs, available in either 800mL or 1,500mL, with hot swap technology that automatically switches from an empty ink pack to a new pack mid-print.
Offering the latest generation, userreplaceable, PrecisionCore Micro TFP printhead with nozzle verification technology and an integrated temperature sensor control, the SC S8160 delivers high quality prints and consistent colour.
It also includes a precise media feeding and tension mechanism for stable media handling and accuracy on a variety of substrates including vinyl, banner, canvas, and paper. Its precise media feeding system ensures alignment accuracy. An 11cm touch screen supports operation enables the operator to view and manage print settings directly on the screen.
Epson has also inserted smart management features into the SureColor S8160 to improve performance, it includes Epson Edge Print Pro RIP software and Epson Cloud Solution PORT for production monitoring and fleet management.
Paul adds, “The Epson SC S8160 maximises output and reduces downtime. The robust UltraChrome GS3 ink set and high production speed ensure rapid delivery of durable graphics that can withstand the rugged Kiwi conditions. Light Cyan and Light Magenta facilitate smoother tonal transitions and superior colour accuracy, allowing you to capture high-margin photographic, fine art, and premium retail display business.”
Applications for the new printer range from outdoor signage and banners to vehicle wraps and high fidelity graphics.
Expo visitors will also want to talk to Paul about the EFI solutions at Fespa, particularly the EFI VUTEk M3h X printer and EFI VUTEk FabriVU 340 i8 dye sublimation printer. He says, “The 3.2m VUTEk M3h X printer produces
Paul Whitehead looks forward to meeting Sign + Print Expo visitors at the Auckland Showgrounds this month
WIDE FORMAT
high quality imaging at high speeds, enabling new applications and revenue streams without added equipment. The 3.4m VUTEk FabriVU 340 i8 dye sublimation delivers production-level speeds up to 375 square metres per hour.
Building on Colorado success
For the second consecutive year, Canon Production Printing recognised Currie Group as APAC’s leading Colorado distributor and in the top three globally.
Wouter Derichs, vice president of global business planning and strategy for Canon Production Printing, presented the award to Currie Group on the second day of the Fespa Global Print Expo 2026 in Barcelona.
He said, “Congratulations on being awarded the Top Global Partner Canon Colorado 2025 Award. This recognition is a testament to the dedication, expertise and outstanding commitment demonstrated by you and your entire team throughout the past year.
“Your contribution to the global success of Canon Colorado in 2025 has not only delivered remarkable sales results but has also strengthened the foundation of our partnership. We truly value the trust you place in Canon Production Printing and the excellence you bring to our shared goals.
“On behalf of Canon Production Printing Australia and Canon Production Printing,
it is our honour to present you with this award. We are proud to have you on board as a trusted Canon Production Printing Partner and are excited to build on this success together in 2026 and beyond.”
Paul Whitehead received the award on behalf of Currie group. He says, “The award shows Currie Group’s unwavering commitment to top tier technology in the Australia and New Zealand market.
“On top of that, our success has provided our customers with access to the Colorado XL that we saw for the first time at Fespa, and we look forward to bringing it to our region by the end of this year.
“The Canon UVgel is widely adopted and accepted in the market. Several customers have expressed their excitement that this technology has expanded to a 3.4m platform. We expected a high demand for the XL in the local market and that has proved the case; we have already received our first order, which was also the first sale in the Asia Pacific region.
Paul believes Currie Group has maintained its presence in the local market through a clear focus on application-led growth, deep customer engagement, and the ability to translate technology into meaningful commercial outcomes for print businesses across Australia and New Zealand.
He says, “Currie Group’s ability to now offer the new Canon Colorado XL-series across Australia and New Zealand,
extending access to Canon’s UVgel platform for customers ready to scale, builds on the momentum our team has worked so diligently to create. That momentum was recently reinforced with the sale of the first Canon Colorado XL-series in the Asia Pacific region to leading Australian trade printer CMYKhub, a milestone that reflects both the confidence customers have in the technology and the strength of the partnership between Canon, CMYKhub and Currie Group.”
“The Canon Colorado XL-series brings together 3.4 metre, high speed production with true hybrid flexibility, enabling both flexible and rigid applications on a single platform. Powered by UVgel technology, it delivers instantly dry, durable output with consistent colour and the ability to produce matte, gloss, or combined finishes in a single pass, all within a modular system designed to scale as production demands grow.
“The Colorado platform continues to deliver for our customers where it matters: productivity, reliability and application versatility. The availability of the XL-series is a natural next step, giving businesses the ability to scale further while maintaining the consistency and control they rely on.”
Currie Group continues to invest in bringing leading technologies, local expertise, and end to end support to the ANZ market, ensuring customers can adopt new capabilities with confidence.
“The Canon Colorado XL-series brings together 3.4 metre, high speed production with true hybrid flexibility
SIGN + PRINT EXPO - STAND GUIDE
Visit Aarque Group on Stand 14 for exclusive one-off deals, live demonstrations, and the chance to WIN a Sawgrass SG500 printer with Versaflex inks and paper. See cutting edge technology in action, including the Canon Colorado M5W UV Gel, HP Latex 830W, Sawgrass SG500 DTF, and Epson’s SureColor SC-S9160, V1060 UV Desktop, and G6060 DTF printers. Right next door, visit supply partner Roland DG on Stand 13 for expert advice and an impressive lineup featuring the VersaSTUDIO Ty300i DTF, TrueVIS MG-640 UV LED, VG4-640, and the VersaOBJECT MO-180 UV printer. Backed by nationwide service, consumables, and after sales support, your digital print needs are sorted. Aarque Group is your Partner of Choice.
All Sign Systems is a specialist supplier to the infrastructure and commercial signage sectors, providing engineered aluminium and stainless steel mounting systems designed to meet New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) and AS/NZS compliance standards. The company’s product range, spanning poles, brackets, extrusions, and fixing systems, is purpose built for durability, wind loading performance, and straightforward installation in demanding environments. With a disciplined approach to quality and regulatory alignment, All Sign Systems delivers fit for purpose solutions that enable clients to achieve compliant, reliable, and efficient sign deployment across New Zealand.
For two decades, AS Colour’s mission has been to provide premium blank apparel for artists, decorators, and creators, offering high quality canvases for self expression. Founded in 2005 in Auckland to raise wholesale standards, the company has grown to operate 27 retail locations and six distribution facilities across Europe, the US, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. AS Colour designs functional, long lasting products based on three essential principles: fit, fabric, and finish. Guided by these pillars, they ensure every garment meets the highest standards. Driven by the belief that durability is better for the environment, AS Colour creates exceptional, built-to-last clothing to reduce waste and encourage conscious consumption.
Blackhawk Gazebo & Display provides high quality pop-up gazebos, custom printed shelters, flags, banners, inflatable domes, and event display products across New Zealand. We cater to businesses, schools, clubs, councils, and community organisations, specialising in branded outdoor solutions that help you stand out at markets, expos, sports days, and corporate events. Our range features everything from compact 3x3m gazebos to large commercial marquee setups, including waterproof canopies, printed walls, and teardrop flags. Whether you need a simple shelter or a fully branded event package, our team offers expert product advice, free visual mock-ups, and budget friendly guidance. Visit Blackhawk Gazebo & Display to make your next event setup professional, practical, and truly memorable.
Brand Display is a growing force in importing and wholesaling display solutions across New Zealand. We provide the hardware so you can add the creativity! Selling at attractive wholesale prices to signwriters and fit-out businesses, we eliminate the uncertainties of piece meal importing. We are your absolute one-stop shop for LED Illuminated Lightboxes with SiliconEdged Fabric Graphics (SEG). Whether you require free-standing options for showrooms and expos, or wall-mounted solutions for retail and office spaces, we offer a complete range. Plus, we provide replacement SEG fabrics whenever your clients are ready to refresh. Come and join us at stand 44 to become a Brand Display “Display Warehouse” reseller!
Proudly working alongside the New Zealand Sign & Display Association to deliver bespoke insurance solutions, expert advice, and dedicated service to its members nationwide. We understand every business is unique, which is why we take the time to understand your operations and provide tailored, practical advice to suit your specific needs. Together Business Insurance Limited and Long Burroughs provide objective advice to identify key risks and recommend costeffective solutions. In partnership with Ando, we ensure NZSDA members have access to innovative products and policy wordings backed by financially sound and trusted providers. If you would like a no obligation review of your insurance programme, come and have a chat with us at the coffee cart.
SIGN + PRINT EXPO - STAND GUIDE
Cambrian Plastics provides solutions for all your acrylic and plastic needs, distributing sheet plastics such as Acrylic Perspex, Polycarbonate, Lexan, Styrene, ABS, and PVC. Using CNC and laser cutting. We design and fabricate standard and custom Point of Sale displays, signage, shop fittings, and architectural products. If you can imagine it made from a flat piece of plastic, we can make it! Our off the shelf range includes brochure holders, roofing materials, fish bowls, and donation boxes. We also specialise in custom fabrication across numerous industries, gladly collaborating with you to design and manufacture unique, one-off products tailored to your exact requirements.
Helping New Zealand businesses get more from their print since the early 1970s, Cardy designs and delivers complete label, packaging, and print solutions. We empower businesses to bring production in-house for greater control, flexibility, and speed, eliminating external supplier delays. For signage companies, we offer a smarter, faster way to print labels on a roll rather than adapting wide-format workflows. As a true one stop shop, we supply equipment and proven media alongside on-site and remote support. Partnering with global brands like Epson, OKI, Samsung, Canon, HP, DPR, Afinia, and I-Echo, we tailor solutions to your workflow. Come check out the new Samsung Spatial Signage and E-Paper solutions to complement your offerings with variable data and 3D displays.
Chrome Grafixx’s mission is to provide a comprehensive range of quality print supplies that allow our clients to stay competitive and produce exceptional results. Our collective 80 years of industry knowledge means that when you choose Chrome, you’re also choosing priceless support and expertise to help make your project succeed! From roll and rigid media to small format products and accessories,
we pride ourselves on offering reliable, premium products with a focus on sustainable options. We are committed to innovation and supporting our customers’ needs, with new products being added to our range regularly. We search the world for suppliers who are creating exciting, industry-leading products which we then bring to you. Come and visit us at Stand 38 and experience the Chrome difference!
Driven by a strong commitment to sustainability, Carr Group Innovative Textiles will showcase a comprehensive range of print media solutions, including PVC banner materials and textiles. Our primary focus is our sustainable display range, featuring three PVC-free, fully recyclable innovations. Our 245gsm PP Pull-Up Banner Stock and 210gsm banner material, both made with up to 30 per cent recycled content, have been successfully adopted across New Zealand since January, delivering outstanding real-world performance from Wellington to Christchurch. Welded samples will be available at our stand to demonstrate their durability and strength. Additionally, we are introducing our new, 100 per cent recyclable PVC-free Pre-Hem Mesh, with the first product arriving in New Zealand in early June.
Cohesive is excited to return to the 2026 NZSDA Sign + Print Expo. As a 100 per cent New Zealand owned business with over 40 years of supporting the local industry, we supply leading vinyl brands and operate as an authorised Roland DG dealer. Visit stand 10 to see our team run live demos across a broad range of materials and hardware. We will showcase an extensive brand lineup featuring trusted favourites and new additions, offering a complete sign solution. Plus, SiserANZ will join us to showcase heat transfer solutions. The first 100 visitors will even have the chance to press their own custom cap to take home. Come and experience it for yourself. We will see you soon!
SIGN + PRINT EXPO - STAND GUIDE
Competenz helps Kiwi industry grow skills, careers and businesses. We partner with industry associations and employers to arranging training for apprenticeships and other on the job qualifications. Our role is to understand the unique needs of each business and its workforce, then match them with the best training solutions. The programmes are flexible, future-proofed, recognised by employers, and approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
Currie Group delivers the latest in sign and display print solutions to the New Zealand market, bringing together a powerful portfolio of technologies from Canon Production Printing, EFI, Epson and Elitron. With deep expertise across the entire production workflow, from file preparation through to finishingCurrie Group supports printers with solutions designed to drive productivity,
expand capability, and unlock new commercial opportunities. Backed by a strong local service and support network, Currie Group is uniquely positioned to deliver real value to New Zealand print businesses. Our mission is to serve the print and manufacturing industry with best-in-class solutions and service, enabling our customers to realise their full potential.
Computaleta continues to bring worldclass sign and graphics solutions to New Zealand, backed by global strength and local expertise. At this year’s Expo, step up to our Applications Bar, where we are pouring possibility. See ideas come to life across print, films, and finishes, and discover how the right materials and technology can transform your work. We’re showcasing leading equipment from HP and Summa, alongside the latest in lighting and media from Arlon, 3M, Hexis, and Samsung, plus some never seen before products. Our focus is on real world application solutions to help you create, print, and apply with confidence. Whether you’re looking to streamline production, expand your offering, or try something new, start here. We’re Your Local. Come and have a yarn.
DecraStrip is a family owned and operated business built on strong, people-first values. Our clients are at the heart of everything we do, and we pride ourselves on delivering service that goes above and beyond. We offer a carefully selected range of market leading products from trusted brands including Avery Dennison, MacTac, Poli-Tape, ASLAN and YelloTools, ensuring we can support projects of any size with confidence. We would love to connect, learn more about your business, and explore how we can help. Visit us to meet Brodie and the team.
Digital Signs is a premium importer of indoor and outdoor LED solutions, serving as a trusted wholesale supplier to the nationwide signage industry. As a proud Diamond Sponsor of the NZSDA, we deliver cutting-edge digital displays across Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands, including full video screens, custom shapes, and trailer-mounted solutions built to drive results. Visit our stand for expert demos and answers to your key questions such as: Frame options (aluminium vs. steel); Premium gold wire vs. copper wire benefits; Indoor vs. outdoor display characteristics; Weatherproofing for extreme Southern climates; Maximum brightness and 24/7 durability; Finance, payment plans, and ongoing maintenance agreements; and Onsite warranty coverage vs. factory returns.
SIGN + PRINT EXPO - STAND GUIDE
Durst Group - Digital print Natives. We are manufacturers of advanced digital printing and production technologies for over 90 years with headquarters in Brixen, South Tyrol, Italy. Our core business is digital inkjet printing and the associated ecosystem of inks, software and services. We established in Oceania
FARNESE NZ
CNC routers from Farnese NZ are a trusted choice for the sign and display industry, delivering precise, reliable machining for cut lettering, illuminated signage, 3D panels, and custom fabricated elements. These versatile systems handle a wide range of materials, including acrylic, aluminium composite (ACP/ Alupanel), PVC, foam board, MDF, timber, and engraving plastics. Compatible with industry-standard design and signage software, Farnese CNC machines ensure efficient workflows from concept to finished product. Available in various configurations, they can be customised with specialised tooling and features for routing, cutting, and shaping, helping sign makers achieve consistent quality, enhanced productivity, and cost-effective production.
in 2019 with over one hundred installs in the region. Our core values: to earn loyalty and respect from our customers and employees by providing high-tech systems and solutions in the highest quality and be being ourselves. “A little big company with firm roots in Tyrol.”
- Christoph Gamper (CEO & Co Owner, Durst Group).
FLAGMAKERS
Add another revenue stream to your business with good margins by selling flags and fabric products to your existing customers. As New Zealand’s largest premium supplier of flag, banner, and fabric display products, Flagmakers has supported local sign and print companies for over 30 years. Our Durapole Flags are the country’s highest quality, most durable flags, printed locally on our singlesided, one-piece satin fabric. We also manufacture a wide range of promotional and event-based products- including fence wraps, printed gazebos, tablecloths, media walls, fabric roll-ups, and NZ’s most comprehensive flagpole range. Become a reseller today to enjoy exclusive value pricing, cheap freight costs, and guaranteed fast turnaround times.
Embroidery Works is an extension of your operation - seamless, reliable, and built to save you time, so you can focus on looking after your customers instead of chasing production. From timeless embroidery and bold screenprint to Supacolour transfers, Decopress emblems, and Digital & CAD cut for short runs - whatever the job, we’ve got the branding option to match. Add a smart online ordering platform, fast accurate proofing, free freight in from your favourite suppliers, and one invoice for the whole job, and we take the complexity right out of your supply chain. Let Embroidery Works enhance your branding game and take you to the next level.
GLUE GURU
Glue Guru is the premier partner for the signage industry, delivering highperformance adhesives that streamline fabrication and installation. We know signage demands a balance of structural integrity and aesthetic finish. Our specialised range of structural acrylics, high-bond tapes, and hybrid adhesive sealants is engineered to bond diverse substrates, including metals, plastics, and composites, ensuring long lasting durability in any environment. More than a supplier, we act as a technical extension of your team. We help you eliminate mechanical fixings, reduce assembly times, and ensure flawless on-site installs. With Glue Guru you get faster processes and stronger, more durable signs. We look forward to meeting you.
SIGN + PRINT EXPO - STAND GUIDE
Introducing GOODMATES - a fresh, emerging brand bringing a new energy to the New Zealand apparel market. Part of the trusted Fashion Biz family since 1989, GOODMATES channels over 35 years of expertise in fabrics, fit, and manufacturing into one simple mission: making everyday basics better. We skip the complicated stuff to deliver honest, well-made gear that fits right, feels good, and keeps up with you. This expo offers one of the first opportunities to experience GOODMATES in person. We will be showcasing a curated range of easy to style, built to last basics designed for everyone, the kind of go to hoodies and clothing you live in, not just wear once. Like a good mate, we have always got your back.
DTF (Direct to Film transfers) is the hot game changing technology and we have it all. Proven European designed machines, consumables and support. DTG (Direct to Garment) with proven Brother technology and support. Stahls Media has the best print and cut media in the market, Hotronix heat presses are the best in the market and back up with local support. Nutec alternative inks that work and save you money improving your bottom line: Just tell us what machine you have, and we can offer you the right solution.
Makerspace NZ offers a refreshingly different, 100 per cent New Zealand owned alternative to offshore giants, genuinely understanding the needs of Kiwi manufacturers. Our robust machines for creation, ranging from laser cutters and CNC routers to vinyl cutters, UV printers, and letter benders, are rigorously vetted for real, safe production environments. What truly sets us apart is our agile team, backing every sale with nationwide service, hands on training, and practical expertise. Customers describe our equipment as instrumental to their daily operations, delivered at prices that make serious capability genuinely achievable. Visit us in the Golden Circle to discover what smart, local expertise looks like in practice and find the perfect reliable machinery for your business.
Gain industry recognition and strengthen your market credibility with this badge of honour. Join a network of dedicated leaders committed to excellence with the Master Sign Maker Accreditation. Master Sign Maker Accreditation is for a business that thrives and leads in being an active and engaged member of the NZSDA, acknowledging commitment to learning, connecting through events and refining your craft. This Accreditation of Excellence sets you apart as a leader within the signage industry and is the next step, a natural progression from the NZSDA Membership, that represents core values of quality, integrity and service. Chat with us at Expo to find out more about the accreditation pathway!
M-Power is an Australian-based, Kiwifounded MIS built specifically for sign makers, wide format printers, vehicle wrappers, and garment decorators. Our wizard driven, recipe based pricing allows you to quote complex custom jobs in minutes, combining bills of materials and process workflows into reusable templates. From quotes to job cards, scheduling, tracking, and invoicing, M-Power connects your entire workflow with seamless Xero and MYOB integration. Client portals and online approvals streamline communication, while automation frees your team from repetitive admin amid skilled labour shortages. Visit our stand to see our new AI Assistant in action, turning a single photo into a ready to quote product and workflow. Come and see what is next.
Driven by innovation and defined by excellence, Mulford has been a trusted partner for 80 years, delivering cuttingedge substrate solutions that set industry benchmarks. Partnering with the world’s foremost manufacturers, we supply premium materials for corporate signage, building, fabrication, digital printing, marine, and more. Our commitment to expertise, service, and reliability ensures every project is supported by innovation you can trust and quality you can see. With six branches strategically located throughout New Zealand, Mulford provides local expertise and reliable nationwide supply. Our dedicated professionals take pride in delivering responsive support, technical knowledge, and tailored solutions that help our clients achieve outstanding results from concept to completion.
SIGN + PRINT EXPO - STAND GUIDE
n3 is a business buying network with more than 16,000 members, helping Kiwi businesses save on everyday costs. By combining the purchasing power of our members, we negotiate exclusive pricing and offers with a wide range of trusted suppliers nationwide. When you join n3, you get instant access to discounts across just about everything you need to run your business, all negotiated by our procurement experts.
Network HR is a New Zealand-based business consultancy dedicated to helping small to medium-sized businesses grow through their people. We partner with organisations across a range of industries to deliver practical, outcome focused solutions in recruitment, HR strategy, health and safety, and leadership development. Our approach is hands on and tailored, supporting businesses to build strong foundations, ensure compliance, develop high-performing teams, and create workplaces where people thrive. From navigating complex employment matters to strengthening workplace safety and building capable leaders, Network HR is committed to delivering results that make a real difference.
NZ Machine Tools (NZMT) is a leading supplier of advanced manufacturing technology in New Zealand, proudly representing Epilog Laser Engravers and Markforged industrial 3D printers. Epilog lasers provide reliable, precise cutting and engraving for sign makers, schools, and creative manufacturers, enabling everything from simple wayfinding to intricate custom signage. NZMT also sells and services Markforged additive manufacturing systems, ranging from desktop units to advanced composite and metal printers. Powered by the AI-driven Digital Forge platform, Markforged technology allows companies to produce strong, functional parts directly at the point of need. With local expertise and nationwide support, NZMT helps Kiwi businesses adopt proven technologies.
ORAFOL is a global leader in innovative self-adhesive graphic films, reflective materials, and adhesive tapes. In Australia, its regional head office offers fast access to premium products via local warehousing, technical support, and project consultation, serving tier-1 brands, government agencies, and sign professionals. In New Zealand, the Auckland-based team combines global strength with genuine local focus, acting with urgency to deliver tailored solutions and trusted partnerships. Supplying premium graphic films (ORABOND, ORAJET, ORAFLEX), high performance reflective products, and advanced tapes, ORAFOL supports sign and display, transport, emergency services, construction, and interior design nationwide. They are proud to back the NZSDA community with superior, reliable results.
A trusted supplier to the print and wideformat industry since 2007, Paperquip supports signage professionals with practical, high quality display hardware and print finishing products. Designed for ease of use, clean presentation, and longterm performance, our ever-growing range includes pull-up banner hardware, snap frames, backlit lightboxes, footpath sign bases, A-frames, poster hanging and retail displays, double-sided and foam tapes, hook and loop, magnets, cardboard struts, and sign mounts. We understand the urgency of the industry; centrally located in Wellington, Paperquip is fully set up for fast, same day dispatch to anywhere in New Zealand. Contact us anytime with your enquiries.
Plymasters is a leader in the New Zealand plywood industry, supplying decorative plywood, marine plywood, and HPL-faced panels suited to signage and display applications. Marine plywood can also be used in exterior environments where durability is required. Our products are well suited to CNC cutting, routing, and substrate pressing, delivering clean finishes and reliable performance. At this year’s show, we will be introducing ColourPanel - a coloured MDF panel with colour throughout the full thickness, designed for signage and routed applications. Our team will be on hand to discuss your next project and how Plymasters products can support your requirements.
SIGN + PRINT EXPO - STAND GUIDE
Operating in New Zealand for over 35 years, Plytech, part of the Big River Group alongside Big River Panels, supports the signage, print, and design industries with premium panel solutions. Engineered for reliable results, our materials deliver clean machining, excellent stability, and high quality finishes across CNC routing, engraving, digital print mounting, and fabrication. Widely used for signage, point of sale displays, exhibition fit-outs, and interior branding, our comprehensive range includes specialty plywood, MR and FR MDF-based panels, real timber veneers, pre-finished decorative panels, Trespa Meteon laminates, and MondoClad solid aluminium solutions. Plytech also offers PEFC and Global GreenTag certified options supporting responsible sourcing.
PSP Signage & Display is a proud New Zealand–owned supplier to the sign and display industry, offering a comprehensive range of high performance materials backed by deep technical expertise. PSP supplies leading global brands including Metamark, Cover Styl, Contra Vision and SOTT, with products spanning self-adhesive vinyls, digital print media, acrylics, polycarbonates, foam PVC, ACM panels, and specialist display substrates. Known for innovation, PSP continually introduces new materials and solutions that help signwriters push creative boundaries, improve efficiency, and deliver durable, high quality outcomes across retail, commercial, and architectural applications.
Radikal is an all in one ERP platform built specifically for sign and print shops, replacing disconnected tools and spreadsheets with a single, streamlined system. From the moment a lead comes in, Radikal manages your entire workflow. It captures enquiries, generates fast, accurate quotes, and moves jobs seamlessly from production to installation. With built in inventory tracking, a client approval portal, and seamless accounting integrations that eliminate double entry, Radikal handles the heavy lifting. Designed around how sign shops actually operate, it cuts out the administrative chaos and connects your entire team, allowing you to spend less time on paperwork and more time building great signs. Visit our stand to see how Radikal can transform your business!
SPECIALIZED LIGHTING CONCEPTS
Roland DG empowers creators and businesses worldwide to Make Your Mark, leveraging over four decades of delivering reliable, innovative digital imaging technology. The company provides advanced solutions that combine hardware, software, supplies, and service to help customers build successful businesses and produce work they are proud to stand behind. Roland DG’s inkjet printers, integrated printer/ cutters, milling machines, and other digital fabrication technologies enable applications ranging from signage and interior décor to personalised products and industrial customisation. Serving print professionals, manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and makers, the company enables high mix, on demand production and enhances performance through connected, cloud-based solutions.
We’ve been supplying a wide range of Innovative Signage Products to NZ Sign Makers for over 30 years. Products that are designed to help make the sign makers’ job easier, quicker and more efficient including our range of graphic ready products. We’re excited to showcase the BOUNCE LED range, trusted for over 10 years across signage, display, and shopfitting projects. These high quality LED solutions are ideal for commercial, architectural, and industrial applications, all backed by a comprehensive warranty. Drop in to discuss your next project.
Specialized Lighting Concepts are New Zealand’s premier wholesale lighting supplier. Committed to innovation and sustainability, we deliver top tier residential and commercial lighting solutions that exceed expectations. From smart LED strip lights to bespoke designs, trust us to illuminate your space with the best lighting brands. Explore our wide range online or contact us for more information.
SIGN + PRINT EXPO - STAND GUIDE
Steel & Tube are proud suppliers and manufactures of steel products, fasteners, and allied services, provided across New Zealand from 36 different locations. We’ve been doing business since 1953, distributing across all industries for all kinds of Kiwi businesses. Leveraging our international and local buying power, we manage to keep prices low without compromises on quality. For the sign industry, we can supply decorative stainless steel, aluminium, anchors and screws, seismic bracing and cable supports, specialised adhesives, weathering steel, custom brackets, galvanizing, and so much more. Come see us at our stand to find out how Steel & Tube can support your business.
STEK is revolutionising the paint protection film industry by producing highly advanced film technologies designed to protect the most advanced vehicles. We take pride in maintaining top-notch quality and compliance with industry standards. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in every product we create, offering you peace of mind and confidence in the protection solutions you choose.
Whatever you’re pressing, Supacolour’s got a transfer for it. Big runs, small runs, tricky garments, bold designs - we make custom heat transfers for every situation, and anyone with a heat press can print like a pro. From oversized designs to accurate Pantone colour matching, we deliver the detail and vibrancy your designs deserve. Whether you need single image transfers or a gang sheet packed with designs, we’ve got you covered. Orders ship within one to two days, ready to press and peel. No setup charges. No rush fees. Just award winning support from a team that’s been in your shoes. Supafast. Supaeasy. That’s the SupaDifference.
Sustainability Futures Hub brings together businesses with one shared purpose: helping the sign and print industry move towards a more sustainable future. A future that’s better for the environment, business performance, profitability and long term growth. Our partners are KirbyCo, which supplies ZERO, a range of PVC free, fully recyclable print media and leads the recovery and recycling of used print, corflute, and other waste; ImpacTex, which transforms end of life textiles into innovative printable board products, giving waste fabrics a second life; and Make It Happen, which supports businesses through practical sustainability strategies, workshops and boot camps that help companies reduce waste, improve their environmental knowledge and performance to create real operational change.
The Installation Company, TIC is New Zealand’s dedicated installation network for the signage and display industry. We work alongside sign companies to provide reliable, professional installation support when you need extra capacity, regional coverage, specialist assistance, or a trusted team to represent your business on site. TIC helps signage businesses take on more work without the pressure of carrying additional installers, vehicles, equipment, or overheads year-round. With a focus on communication, presentation, consistency and quality workmanship, TIC has been created to fill a clear gap in the New Zealand market. We are also expanding our franchise network and are looking for the right people to help grow the brand across New Zealand. Visit us at our stand to find out how TIC can support your business, or how you could become part of the network.
Since 2012, Thunder Laser has specialised in developing high end laser cutting, engraving, and marking machines, alongside advanced laser control systems for various industries. Featuring highresolution laser heads, our technology seamlessly enables 3D wood engraving and intricate metal designing. We maintain strict end to end quality control through precise production and management processes, earning prestigious CE and FDA certifications. By combining premium laser machinery with robust technical and marketing support, we empower our customers’ businesses globally, earning worldwide recognition. In New Zealand, Thunder Laser machines are proudly supplied and maintained by ITS Laser and CNC, ensuring top tier local service and reliable operational support for all your manufacturing needs.
SIGN + PRINT EXPO - STAND GUIDE
Join the Total Supply team at the NZSDA Sign & Print Expo 2026 to discover what’s new, next, and working on the floor! Experience the latest Mimaki innovations, including the all-new UJ330-H, alongside cutting-edge print solutions designed to elevate your output. Get hands on with 3M Architectural Films through live demonstrations, and explore vinyl media from 3M, Arlon, and Avery Dennison with testable samples. Check out our rigid display technologies, including sustainable, paper-based options, and the latest in LED, Neon, and digital sign technology. Enjoy interactive activities, exciting giveaways, and plenty of takeaway samples. We look forward to seeing you at the Expo. Come by, get involved, and see what Total has in store!
T.S. Wilson Jnr. Ltd. is a third generation New Zealand business run by Stephen Wilson. T.S. Wilson Jnr supplies primarily print finishing equipment and pressroom supplies and maintains its hard-earned reputation of only selling top quality equipment and supplies and servicing customers as professionally as possible. T.S. Wilson Jnr boasts an impressive range of products spanning the full operation of today’s modern industry. Machinery sourced from Japan, Europe and Australia, offers New Zealand printers the latest technology available and forms the backbone of the company’s success and reputation in the New Zealand marketplace.
Visimark are specialist braille suppliers to the sign industry. We have experts on staff who can advise on translation, compliance and manufacturing methods to supply that last piece for your overall project. Being New Zealand based, and with multiple machines, you can rely on us to work closely with you and your deadlines. As trade suppliers, we will not be competing with you on the same project: confidentiality is important to us. Come and see us to see some of the materials and finishes we can supply as well as seeing braille printed for you to take away.
Proudly New Zealand owned for over 30 years, Uniscreen Group is your go to wholesaler for digital printers, laminators, media, inks, and production equipment. Backed by a dedicated service team, we are excited to showcase Mutoh, our leading digital printer brand renowned worldwide for innovation and reliability. Whether you are in signage, display, or wide-format production, we
offer expert support every step of the way. Visit us at Stand #07 in the Golden Circle to check out our Mutoh printers, Mefu production equipment, Hix heat presses, and media range. Don’t miss our exclusive show-only specials and get scanned by the team to enter the draw to win up to $1,000 of Mutoh ink or media. Leading Brands. Local Backup. Unmatched Results.
Wholesale Print is New Zealand’s largest locally owned and operated Trade Printer, trusted by the signage, design, and print industries nationwide. We combine competitive trade pricing with a powerful mix of offset, digital, and high speed inkjet technology, giving you the capability to say yes to more jobs, more often. We’re more than a website; we are a team of print and design specialists who understand your world. You get the ease of fast online ordering, backed by people who genuinely care about helping you deliver for your clients. If you’re already part of the family, drop in and say hello. If not, sign up and experience Wholesale Print for free.
NZSDA UPDATE
NZSDA buzzing in the build up to the 2026 Sign + Print Expo
Everything is now in place for the most important week in this year’s signage calendar.
After a busy start to the year, most NZSDA members have settled into their work. It is hard to believe how quickly the year is moving and with several important dates approaching, now is a good time to stay across what is coming up.
June 17-19 will see the 2026 Sign + Print Expo come to Auckland Showgrounds. This is the biggest signage industry trade show in New Zealand and the closest you can get to Sign China or the ISA Expo without leaving the country.
This year will feature more exhibitors than ever before, with 50 leading suppliers taking part and exhibiting on the show floor. My tip for getting the most out of the event is to plan your visit on the Wednesday and Thursday, as these days are historically the quietest and will give you the best chance to interact with the exhibitors without battling the crowds.
NZSDA president Logan Sutton, says, “We can feel a real buzz building and if you get anywhere near the conversations, you will
feel it too. Sign + Print Expo’s stands are nearly sold out. We’ve got all the familiar faces we know and trust, alongside a wave of new exhibitors bringing fresh ideas, new tech, and a different kind of energy. It is shaping up to be something special.
“Add to that the launch of the Young Signee of the Year, plus a strong lineup of demos, speakers, and events designed to bring people together, and I believe this will be one of the most anticipated expos we’ve seen in a long time.
“For me, that’s what stands out most. Even with everything going on in the background, economically, globally, and in the day to day pressures of running a business, there’s still this willingness in our industry to show up, connect, and invest in where we’re heading.
No matter where you are in the country, this is one of those moments in the calendar that gives more back than it takes. The conversations, the ideas, the reminder that you’re part of something bigger than your own workshop; they matter.”
For those wanting to get the most out of their visit to 2026 Sign + Print Expo, register for some of our expert speaker sessions. Designed to give you ideas you can take straight back to the workshop, each of these free to attend sessions promises something special. Simply register your name to reserve your seat.
The extensive range of topics that the presenters will cover includes quoting with AI, wayfinding in the environment, sales tips for tough customers, the illumination bootcamp, and so much more. Each of our expert speakers possess impressive skillsets, knowledge, and expertise that they are eager to share with the industry.
Awards of Excellence
Following the Sign & Print Expo is the Sign Display Awards of Excellence on the 20 June. This year the event will be held at the Auckland Museum. Entries are closing end of April, following which we will be busy with the rigorous judging process. We encourage everyone in the industry to come along to the awards ceremony; it is a fun had high energy event and there is nothing quite like seeing the incredible winning projects displayed on the big screen.
I am delighted to share that the Sign Industry Pricing Guide is receiving a 2026 update. I would like to say a big thank you to everyone who took the time to complete the surveys and contribute to the data set. This resource is regularly used by nearly every sign shop around the country, and we are excited to bring to life a version that better reflects today’s pricing.
This year we will only be releasing a short run of printed copies, and these will be exclusively available to the first 300 sign makers to attend the Sign & Print Expo, so make sure you come along and claim your copy.
“Opportunities don’t happen. You create them.”
- Chris Grosser
Mikayla Hopkins, Lead Projects, Events, and Marketing Specialist NZSDA
This year will see more exhibitors than ever before on the show floor
Handling the fuel crisis from the pump to the production floor
We can’t control global prices and supply chains, but we can control how we respond.
What we see happening in the Strait of Hormuz will continue to impact us in New Zealand, especially when it comes to fuel. Prices are likely to stay high, but supply looks stable.
However, for businesses and customers, the real pressure point isn’t availability, it is cost. The price of doesn’t exist in isolation, it flows through everything. Freight goes up. And material costs follow. Before long, the price of vinyl, acrylics, and other petroleum-based products start shifting.
We saw it at the pump first. Almost overnight, petrol increased by over 35 per cent and diesel by more than 87 per cent. Now we see that same pressure filter through the rest of the business. A few dollars here, a small increase there, but over time, it builds.
As sign makers, the challenge sits there because we work in a trade where pricing isn’t always straightforward. We quote ahead. We commit to timelines. We build relationships on trust and consistency.
Costs changing creates tension. Do we pass it on? Do we absorb it? Do we wait and see? Many of us default to carrying it ourselves, at least for a while. Not because it is the best move, but because it feels like the easiest in the moment. And there’s
always that quiet hope in the back of our minds that it is temporary.
But over time, that approach catches up. Margins tighten and pressure builds. What started as a small decision becomes something that affects the whole business.
Wars and global disruption aren’t new, but each one brings its own ripple effects. The key in a time like this isn’t to panic but to be intentional.
We don’t need to react dramatically. But we do need to stay aware of what is happening around us. Because we are already operating in a much higher cost environment.
Adapting to the new environment
Practically, what can we do to ride this wave? For me, it comes back to a few simple, grounded actions.
First, know where you stand; not where your pricing was six months ago, but where it is now. Costs have shifted, and if we are not keeping pace, we are the ones filling the gap, and that hurts margin.
In our business, we have adjusted our quote validity from 30 days down to 14 days, with a note around unstable global conditions. This is not about fear; it is
about fairness. No one expects you to be out of pocket. And if they do, they may not be the right customer in a season like this.
Second, communicate. Customers don’t need a deep dive into global fuel markets, but they do appreciate honesty. On larger projects, we now purchase materials upfront and work with staged progress payments. It protects cashflow on our side and gives customers certainty around pricing during the project. It’s a win-win.
Third, look for efficiency, not shortcuts. This is not about cutting corners. It is about tightening systems; combining orders to reduce freight; grouping installs to reduce travel; and minimising double handling. These small improvements add up.
Most importantly, don’t carry it alone.
One of the NZSDA’s strengths is connection. We share the ability to talk shop, share challenges, and learn from each other without ego. If you are feeling the pressure, chances are others are feeling it too. Sometimes the best ideas, or even just clarity, come from a conversation you didn’t realise you needed.
Ultimately, this isn’t just about fuel. It’s about resilience. It’s about protecting the businesses we have built, the teams we lead, and the standards we hold ourselves to as an industry.
We can’t control global prices and supply chains, but we can control how we respond.
Right now, we are an industry that is still growing, still investing, still innovating, and still showing up for each other. The upcoming expo is proof of that. It’s a chance for us to step out of the day to day; to reconnect with why we do what we do; and to see where things are heading, not just through challenges, but through opportunity.
So back yourselves, and back your industry. Make the trip. Have the conversations. Support the people who support you. We are better when we show up together.
Logan Sutton President NZSDA
One of the NZSDA’s strengths is connection
MASTER SIGN MAKER
Mastery at Positive Signs
Achieving Master Sign Maker accreditation gives Amanda Cookson a chance to reflect on the sign making process and her approach to all aspects of the craft.
Positive Signs has become the first sign company to achieve Master Sign Maker accreditation in 2026, an achievement that owner Amanda Cookson says reflects her commitment to quality.
She explains, “I have always cared about doing things properly: good design, good materials, and making sure the end result actually works in the real world. The Master Sign Maker accreditation felt like a way to formalise that and put some weight behind the level of work we are producing.”
“The accreditation is also important for the industry. It shows clients that there is a difference between signage that just
‘looks fine’ and signage that has been properly thought through, manufactured, and applied to last.”
She believes the most difficult part of the process was clearly communicating the thinking behind her work. She says, “When you are busy running a business, you make decisions all day, but you don’t always stop to document why you made them. The process forced me to slow down and articulate that.”
Logan Sutton, NZSDA president, praises Amanda’s achievement. He says, “Amanda’s achievement is a perfect example of what the NZSDA pathway through to Master Sign Maker should look like.”
Process and clear standards
Amanda says the as she worked to achieve the accreditation, she experienced moments that gave her time to reflect on her approach to sign making and the creative process in general. She explains, “Working through my core projects, I could see the consistency in how I approach problems, balancing functionality, durability, and aesthetics, and making decisions that suit the client rather than just looking good in isolation. It was one of those moments where I realised I do have a clear process and standard, even though I have never stopped to put it into words before.”
As a master tradeswoman, Amanda encourages other sign makers to focus on the full picture. She says, “Good signage isn’t just about design, or just about installation. It’s how everything works, from materials, environment, visibility, to how it will actually perform over time.
“The best way I have found to build that understanding is by connecting with other signwriters. Being open, asking questions, sharing experiences, and being willing to admit what you don’t know. That only works if you leave your ego at the door.”
Looking ahead, Amanda will keep her focus on refining her traditional signwriting skills while adapting to industry changes. She says, “As the industry moves towards faster, more automated and AI-generated solutions, I have found myself wanting to lean the other way, not in opposition to it, but to make sure we don’t lose the skill, detail, and character that comes from doing things by hand.”
Celebrating the milestone, Amanda says, “I had a wee cry at my desk, and that night, we cracked open a bottle of 2013 Carrick Riesling.”
Scott Walklin, NZSDA vice president, adds, “Amanda is a real success story. From meeting her at the end of the last expo and convincing her to join the association, to seeing her take such an active role in everything we have to offer is awesome.
“She will make an awesome Master Sign Maker.”
Amanda Cookson says the accreditation puts some weight behind the work Positive Signs produces
Amanda completing an ACM trim
Heading to the NZ Sign & Print Expo this June? Come say hi!
Our Trade Sales Manager, Neli Tolova’a, will be there to chat about how we can support your business with competitive trade-only pricing, reliable turnaround, and a partnership you can count on.
Whether you’re already working with us or exploring new trade suppliers, let’s talk about how we can help your business grow.
NZ Sign & Print Expo
Auckland Showgrounds, Hub #46 17–19 June
Don’t be a stranger — we’ll see you there!