Vinyl Pros Issue 10

INTERIOR FILM FOR LOBBIES

PAUL TURNER SIGNWRITERS LTD: LEADERSHIP UNDER THE SECOND GENERATION

VEHICLE WRAPPING IN STATISTICS

THE ARCHITECTURAL SHOWDOWN

SUSTAINABILITY FOR THE SELF ADHESIVE INDUSTRY

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to October’s edition, and the last one of Vinyl Pros as we know it. This month, we have Paul Turner Signwriters Ltd on the cover after we interviewed their MD, Kerry Orme. With over four decades under their belt as a company, its great to see a family business thriving under the leadership of the second generation. Plus, Kerry is pushing for more women to enter the industry and is leading by example.

We have projects from DESIGNIT Signs & Print owner, Dan Thomas. Hailing from Manchester, he is running an up-andcoming company that has big ambitions to make their own way in the industry.

September saw the launch of SAISAG, an action group focused on sustainability within the self-adhesive film industry. You can find more information on this in our sustainability section. George Howell from William Smith writes for us with a comparison piece on the Big Three in architectural films in the

UK at the moment, Louise Wynne comes through for us again with her interior design tips for using architectural film in lift lobby areas, and Brent is back with our revelation for the month...

We are niching down and going global. We have amassed readers from four continents already, but in order to keep producing educational and entertaining content each month, we are assembling a top team of experts in the field of architectural film. We will continue to feature other sectors in the industry, but with more of a focus on fusions. We are still in the discovery phase of what is possible, and sharing knowledge in this sector is vital for the growth of the industry. We will return in January with quarterly editions as we have been planning even bigger and better things for 2024.

- Rosie Christie

CONTENTS

4 Ones to Watch

6 Latest News

10

Featured Projects

10

4 15 22

12

14

16

18

19

20

The impact of vehicle wrap advertising

PT Signwriters

The Architectural Film showdown

Navigating client relationships

The Self-Adhesive Industry Sustainability Action Group

24

Featured Products

25 Latest Jobs

FESPA UK Launch the Sustainable Waste Academy

FESPA UK are thrilled to announce the launch of the latest project ‘Sustainable Waste Academy’ in their ongoing mission to drive environmental awareness through the industry.

Held in the Sustainability Training Room at their HQ in South Yorkshire and starting September 27th , Jon Hutton will deliver these 1 day courses that have been designed to educate companies about all aspects of sustainable waste management.

Jon, who is a Director at Reconomy Ltd and the FESPA UK Sustainable Waste Consultant, is uniquely positioned within the UK printing industry to specialize in Waste, Recycling and Sustainability Management. Jon is a recognized figure, an industry speaker, and passionate about the continual improvement of sustainability and developing a circular economy.

The Printer & Signage course will be the first of a 3-stage programme, which will over the coming months expand into educating a wider section of the industry on a range of different areas.

By attending the course, you’ll gain an overview of the key areas in waste management for our industry and gain awareness of the necessary tools to empower these throughout your organization.

During the session, we will cover a range of important topics including:

waste

Effectively handle your waste management

Address greenwashing

Understand the Waste and Recycling Industries

Establish how contractors handle and process your waste

See how material choices reflect their end-ofcampaign treatment.

Engage with your clients on all matters of sustainability.

The training room has been filled with a range of sample materials from suppliers, which will give the delegates the opportunity to discuss the products they work with and understand how and where these materials are treated as waste, as well as how they can best influence and drive sustainability.

The course has been designed to show those businesses who are already on the waste journey, how they can use what they are doing to promote their business to clients and will provide them with the information they need to stand out from the crowd.

Suzi Ward from FESPA UK said "After working with Jon on FESPA UK waste management projects for over 2 years now, while there is a lot of useful information out there for businesses, there is also a lack of clarity and a huge gap in understanding the reality of waste management and what is achievable within Print and Signage. Both Jon and I are passionate about being able to offer businesses the opportunity to grow their knowledge in a way that will empower them to have open and honest conversations with their clients about what can realistically be achieved with their end-of-use products. There is also too much Greenwashing out there and this will give businesses the confidence to challenge what they are being told and ask the right questions, so they know that what they are being told is true. "

Jon Hutton said ‘’During these engaging courses, I’ll delve into areas such as, developing a waste management strategy for today’s graphics consumer markets, the circular economy, the UK’s Waste Industry and Recycling Industry infrastructures and a how-to roadmap for a sustainable waste management Journey. This will enable businesses to identify more suitable materials and help brand their business as sustainable. You’ll acquire the tools and understanding to make a positive impact, differentiate projects and meet the expectations of an increasingly conscious world.’’

The courses will be delivered from 10am to 3pm and will include lunch and an opportunity to network and share ideas with other like-minded people and been designed so that it will be relevant to business owners, sales teams and sustainability-focused team members.

Courses can be booked directly with Suzi at suzi.ward@fespauk.com FESPA UK members will receive a discount on the course fee.

The changing landscape and attitudes of print consumer

Innotech Digital has partnered with Liyu UK to release a new swatch book for a selected range of PVC-free, backlit and other digital display media that are fully tested and approved for the Liyu range of UV LED printers. The swatch book will be launched and available on the Liyu UK stand (A30), where Innotech media will also be used for demonstration purposes on Liyu’s printers. Liyu UK’s stand is the largest stand the show has ever seen and will host much of the company’s printer range, including roll-to-roll, flatbed and hybrid printers up to 5m width.

Innotech Digital partners with Liyu UK to launch a new approved media swatch book

Kieran Dallow, Marketing Manager for Innotech Digital, says, "We worked closely with Liyu UK to test our media on their printers and provide a swatch book of selected media that is fully approved for their machines. Liyu’s range of superwide printers is perfect for producing large banners and other wide format output with great image quality, and the media range in the swatch book fully supports these applications. Customers can be confident that the selected range of high-quality media in the new swatch book has been fully tested on Liyu printers and is ready to go."

The new Innotech Digital media swatch book will contain the following products, fully tested and approved for Liyu printers. You can also see some of these products in action at The Print Show on the Liyu UK stand:

- Envirotech BIO300 - PVC Free Biodegradable Print Media Grey Back 300g/m2 FR EN13501

- Envirotech PP400G - PVC Free Flex Banner Greyback 400g/m2

- Envirotech EF150 - PVC Free Frontlit Banner 150g/m2 FR B1 W/W

- Vertex BA180 - Glacier Display Textile 180g/m2 FR B1

- Vertex BL235 - Blackback Display Textile 235g/m2 FR B1

- Vertex W240GRP - Texture R-PET PVC-Free Coated Polyester Grey Back FR B1 240g/m2

- Imagetech BA200 - Front Print Backlit Display Film 200mic

- Kinetix FS260 - Ferrous Sheet White Matt PP 0.26mm

- Max-Flat R420 - Light-Stop Roll-Up Media 420g/m2

- Vistaflex BL750 - Premium PVC Blockout Double-Sided Banner 750g/m2 FR B1

Eddie Tucker, Liyu UK’s Managing Director, says, "We are delighted to be working with Innotech and to have a swatch book of media that is fully approved and ready to go with our printers. It is important for customers to know that there are market-leading media products guaranteed to work well with our printers, and our partnership with Innotech gives them that confidence. We are delighted that they are also supporting us at The Print Show and are looking forward to showing what our products can do together."

Kieran concludes, "Our focus is to work more closely with print machinery manufacturers as this is a great way to demonstrate the range and quality of our media. There is a huge benefit to allowing customers to see that our media works perfectly with industry-leading printers. Similarly, it is important for the manufacturers to be able to show a broad range of top-quality media that is tested and approved for their machines. There will be more such arrangements being announced in the coming months."

Smith’s new website streamlines online shopping for Chevron Kits

Smith, part of William Smith Group 1832, is thrilled to announce the launch of its brand-new website, designed to elevate customer experiences and streamline online shopping for Chevron Kits.

Smith’s new website boasts a whole host of user-friendly features, making it easier than ever for customers to access products and information, right at their fingertips.

Smith’s new website is designed to provide trade customers with an unmatched shopping experience, offering a host of benefits that redefine convenience and accessibility.

A Comprehensive Online Shop for Chevron Kits

The website showcases Smith’s full portfolio of Chevron Kits, ensuring customers have a clear understanding of the available options.

An extensive selection of common/popular vehicle types are featured, catering to a wide range of customer needs. This includes templates for all major vehicle manufacturers, including Ford, Mercedes, Citroen, Vauxhall, Volkswagen and more.

Detailed technical information is provided for each product, aiding customers in making informed decisions.

The user-friendly product specification selection functionality allows customers to tailor their purchases to precise requirements.

Customers who already have access to the William Smith site will also have instant access to the new Smith site (and vice versa). In addition to this, trade customers with an existing William Smith Trade Account will be able to self-authenticate their registration for the new site, streamlining the process and removing any delays.

Trade customers now have instant access to transparent pricing, empowering them with the information they need to make swift decisions. Whether on the go or with a simple click, ordering has been made effortless, revolutionising the purchasing process. The availability of comprehensive technical information assists customers in selecting the perfect Chevron Kit for their specific needs. Additionally, the personalised login portal ensures a seamless and tailored shopping experience that caters to individual preferences.

Signage Solutions Hub

•

•

In addition to Chevron Kits, the website also offers a comprehensive hub for signage solutions.

Customers can access essential support documents such as technical data sheets, FAQs, literature, and case studiestechnical data sheets, FAQs, literature, and case studies.

An interactive "Meet the Team" section introduces the individuals behind Smith’s exceptional products and services.

• The website’s dedicated signage solutions hub offers trade customers easy access to crucial support documents, enhancing their knowledge and understanding of Smith’s products. A wealth of knowledge and information is now at customers’ disposal, providing valuable insights into the world of signage solutions. Furthermore, high-quality images effectively represent products, aiding customers in visualising their purchases and making informed decisions.

Smith’s commitment to excellence is reflected in every aspect of the new website, ensuring that customers receive unparalleled service, convenience, and access to high-quality products. The launch of this dynamic platform reinforces Smith’s dedication to meeting the evolving needs of its customers and propelling the signage industry forward. For an exceptional online shopping experience and to explore the world of Chevron Kits and signage solutions, visit Smith’s new website at www.smithtradesignage.co.uk.

DESIGNIT SIGN & PRINT

Design It: Sign and Print has been running since 2019. Our main goal is always at the forefront of our minds. Quite simply put, to design and create high-quality, affordable sign and print projects whilst always keeping to our high standards in both materials used and completed project results.

Although a smaller family-run business, contending with the big boys in what is quite a massive industry. We hold many years of experience working with some of the most well know brands, individuals, societies, and local businesses across the northwest and further afield. And also being fully 5/5 recommended and reviewed across Google my business, social media, and Yell.

DRIVING IMPRESSIONS: THE STATISTICAL IMPACT OF VEHICLE WRAP ADVERTISING

Harnessing the power of vehicle wraps offers businesses a compelling and budget-friendly advertising strategy. By choosing the optimal design for your wrap, your customers can effortlessly captivate thousands of potential clients each day. Numerous statistics underscore the success of vehicle wraps in today’s advertising landscape, highlighting their excellence in engaging consumers and driving sales. Here, we’ll explore more of these in detail so you can wow any potential clients with some facts.

1. A Memorable Impact

A staggering 97% of individuals recall encountering a vehicle wrap advertisement, underscoring the impactful nature of this marketing approach. Such a high recall rate suggests that vehicle wraps not only capture attention but also leave a lasting impression, making them a potent tool for reaching prospective clients.

2. Positive Brand Perception

Furthermore, 74% of consumers acknowledge that vehicle wrap advertisements positively sway their perceptions. This data highlights the profound influence of vehicle wraps, with a significant majority of viewers forming enhanced opinions about brands or products upon seeing such ads. This insight emphasises the pivotal role of vehicle wraps in shaping consumer sentiment.

3. Standing Out In The Crowd

Mobile outdoor advertising, i.e. vehicle wraps, garners 2.5 times more attention than static outdoor ads. This heightened attention rate signifies the wrap’s ability to captivate and engage on-the-go audiences.

4. Building a Positive Brand Image

A staggering 97% of individuals recall encountering a vehicle wrap advertisement, underscoring the impactful nature of this marketing approach. Such a high recall rate suggests that vehicle wraps not only capture attention but also leave a lasting impression, making them a potent tool for reaching prospective clients.

5. Swaying Opinion

29% of people said vehicle wrap ads influenced them to try a new product or service. This statistic is a powerful testament to the effectiveness of vehicle wrap advertising. It shows that a significant portion of people have been swayed by this form of marketing to try something new. This indicates that vehicle wrap advertising is an effective way to reach potential customers and encourage them to try a product or service.

There’s a course for you!

Whether you’re looking to expand your business, brush up on your application skills, improve your sales and marketing pitching, or just fancy a taster for the products and opportunities in an exciting and innovative marketplace, we are the Academy for you.

After 41 years of trading and continuous evolution, Paul Turner Signwriters Ltd has mastered the fine art of moving with the times whilst also keeping its family values as a company. Now Managing Director of the company that was started by her father over four decades ago, Kerry Orme talks to us about the history of the company, bringing more women into the industry and her plans for the future.

PAUL TURNER SIGNWRITERS LTD: 2 GENERATIONS IN

Family Values

Although Paul Turner Signwriters Ltd is a family-run company in the second generation of its leadership, the family roots of signwriting go back even further than these 41 years. Kerry’s grandfather was also a signwriter, using the traditional stick-and-brush method. Paul worked for is father for ten years gaining the skills needed to start a new business. Paul left his father’s company in 1982 and started Paul Turner Signwriters with his wife Margaret. After a short time, they invested in new technology by purchasing one of the first cutting machines in the uk which was kept in the loft of their family home – the same machine that still resides at the new premises of the company today. The business has always been run as a tight-knit family unit, with both of Kerry’s parents working together as a team to cover all of the different aspects. Referring to her parents as her role models, Kerry was keen to adopt a similar approach, ensuring that all of the bases could be covered when the time came for her to lead the company. As she progressed through the ranks, working her way up from the production bench all the way to Managing Director, her husband Waynne also joined the company. Bringing his creative flair to the business, Waynne quickly became proficient in the art of wrapping and now leads the installation side of the business. Despite spending a lot of her own school holidays helping her parents at work and giving a helping hand, Kerry and Waynne have found themselves in the same situation with their own children today, as they regularly visit the unit to help their parents. The family values that Paul Turner Signwriters Ltd became so successful on still very much exist within the company today.

Leadership Under The Second Generation

When asked about her future plans for the company, Kerry has a clear vision of where she sees the company under her direction, "while I am committed to the ongoing growth and success of the company, I do not aspire to become the largest company in our industry. My focus is on sustainable growth, maintaining the highest standards of quality, customer satisfaction and creating a positive impact in our industry and community. Size alone does not define our success, rather it is the value we bring to our customers and employees".

The business premises are both practical and controlled which gives the perfect conditions to serve their longstanding and new commercial customers. Everything is made and installed in perfect conditions and all staff are in-house the majority of the time. This eliminates any possibility of a job not meeting customer expectations of having a failed installation. The biggest challenge that Kerry has faced is the logistics of managing such customers. 80% of all the business through the doors at Paul Turner Signwriters is fleet work. As many vehicles come straight from the manufacturer, there can be wait times from body builders, or delays from a chain of people before anything is ready for branding. As a result, the work schedule is changed around every single day, without fail. In order to keep up with the changes and keep things running smoothly, Kerry has employed someone else to manage the logistics operation. As an experienced events manager herself before having children, Kerry feels this was the role that gave her the transferrable skills that have made her successful today. With organisation being key in event management, it is no wonder that the incoming projects and turnaround at Paul Turner Signwriters run like a well-oiled machine.

As with any changes, Paul and Kerry were prepared for some kickback once he announced he was stepping back into the chairman’s role. Reassuring their existing customers that the new Managing Director would continue to operate and provide the same high-quality level of service as they were used to was top of their priority list. Knowing that

she was following in the footsteps of her own dad and continuing the legacy that he created was bound to create a sense of anticipation, although Paul never had any doubts that his daughter was the right person to continue to lead the company. Some of the customers of Paul Turner Signwriters have been with the company since it first opened its doors 41 years ago, and some of these businesses have also been succeeded by the next generation. Knowing that as far as the service goes, it will remain the same, every single customer has returned to the company for their fleet livery during the transition.

Continuing to grow with their existing and new customer base, Kerry wants to continue the work her family have been doing over the past forty years. As this naturally comes with an evolution as technology and materials develop, the values remain the same and customer service and staff wellbeing are paramount.

Bringing Women Into The Industry

One of the key things Kerry is keen to push for is the inclusion of more women into the industry. Seeing no reason as to why working in sign & graphics is more geared towards men, Kerry insists, "This is an industry that women can get into easily. It’s creative, there is a lot of design work to be done and wrapping requires a level of attention to detail that a lot of women would be great at. Unfortunately, it’s never put forward as an option for people at college open days and I think that means it can be overlooked and is something people fall into accidently." Noting that not every aspect of the industry involves heavy lifting and that there are actually many different phases that a project goes through that anybody can get involved in is something Kerry is eager to spread the word on, especially when it comes to encouraging younger people into the industry. With 3 out of the 8 employees at the company being female. Kerry is steadfast in her conviction. As the company grows and evolves, it is this diversity that continues to make a stronger and well balanced team.

Looking to the Future

As Paul Turner Signwriters Ltd steps confidently into its second generation of leadership, it’s evident that the legacy built over four decades is not just being preserved, but actively revitalized. Under Kerry’s stewardship, the company seamlessly marries the cherished traditions of the past with the innovations of the present, ensuring that the art of vehicle wrapping and signage solutions continues, to evolve while staying true to its roots. The future looks exceptionally bright, with a clear vision and a commitment to both family values and industry excellence. As the company moves forward, it’s not just about maintaining a legacy, but about enhancing it, ensuring that the name ‘Paul Turner Signwriters Ltd’ remains synonymous with quality, craftsmanship, Service and a deep familial bond for generations to come.

Moreover, the transition from one generation to the next is more than just a change in leadership; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of the company. The challenges and triumphs faced over the years have only strengthened the company’s resolve, with each experience serving as a stepping stone towards a brighter future. As Kerry navigates the complexities of the modern graphics industry, she does so with an unwavering commitment to uphold the values and standards set by her predecessors. With a blend of respect for the past and excitement for what lies ahead, Paul Turner Signwriters Ltd is poised to not only continue its legacy but to redefine it, setting new benchmarks and inspiring future generations in the world of Vehicle wrapping and signage solutions.

In the architectural film business, we’ve seen three brands emerge as industry leaders: 3M DINOC, Cover Styl’, and LX Hausys BENIF. Each offers unique advantages and understanding their differences can help you choose the right product for your next project.

With all interior films, research and experience is key. I can’t stress that enough. If you are serious about unlocking your potential here, do your homework. Read the spec sheets, undergo proper training, and visit sites ahead of the fitout. Knowing the strengths of each film is only a slice of what is important. However, you’ve got to start somewhere so here’s a quick overview of some of features of the three options.

THE ARCHITECTURAL FILM SHOWDOWN:

3M, COVER STYL’ OR LX?

by George Howell

3M DI-NOC

With a history dating back over 70 years, 3M has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible with vinyl film technology. The 3M DI-NOC series is renowned for its durability, specialist finishes and extensive range of patterns and textures. 3M DI-NOC is currently the only cast film available on the market. This means it is the only film where splice joins are endorsed, and it won’t shrink back when fitted correctly.

The sheer volume of patterns (1000+) means that it is more likely to be able to match existing finishes. The range also includes their distinctive Abrasion Resistant range (for their highest anti-scratch performance) and the Exterior range (currently the only exterior option).

3M DI-NOC is positioned as a premium product. While the initial investment may be higher than other brands, the durability and lifespan of DI-NOC films is designed to lead to lower long-term costs.

COVER STYL’

Cover Styl’ has made a huge name for itself across Europe by offering quick access to high-quality architectural films. They offer a wide range of designs, not only including the popular woods, stones and marbles but also the brand-new Aurora range, natural cork and their unique glitters. These glitters are often requested at Christmas time so expect to see interest peaking soon.

They are continually looking to develop and are keen to provide supporting documentation and visual materials for their customers too. The new book has a lot of largescale sample pieces in it. This makes it much easier for the end user to visualise concepts.

Cover Styl’ are also the only one of the three companies to offer an interior design service via their in-house designer, Maysa.

One of the features of this brand is the level of marketing they have. They use social media to raise awareness and drive interest and have really focused on bringing the architectural films to the masses. You will undoubtably see requests for this film if you are in the architectural world.

LX HAUSYS BENIF

LX Hausys BENIF is the new name for LG films and it has quickly gained recognition for its performance.

Again, there are a wide variety of finishes offered by this manufacturer. The Classic Wood range offers an exclusive option. This product has a textured topcoat that has been engineered to replicate the pattern below. What you get is a wood finish that matches the feel of the wood to the look.

The big marble and big wood patterns have the longest pattern repeat that I am aware of, up to 1.8 metres long. If your client wants to avoid the frequent repetition of pattern that you see in some surfaces, these are very useful.

These features, combined with a wide range of modern and stylish designs, make BENIF a compelling choice for businesses looking to combine aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.

CONCLUSION

These are a just few featured benefits of using of each brand. There are many more that I haven’t been able to cover.

By understanding the qualities of each pattern, let alone each brand, you can make an informed decision that will bring your design vision to life while also meeting your budgetary requirements.

Whether you prioritise durability, cost-effectiveness, or just love a particular finish, there’s an architectural film out there that’s perfect for your project.

WHEN SIGN COMPANIES CHOOSE TO PART WAYS

In the world of the sign and graphics industry, maintaining a harmonious relationship with clients is paramount. However, there are instances when sign companies find it necessary to sever ties with certain customers. This decision, though challenging, is sometimes essential for the well-being and growth of the business.

1. The Decision to Part Ways

A notable 63% of sign companies have admitted to occasionally dropping customers. The reasons vary, from clients being overly demanding, rude, or seeking services at unrealistically low prices. Some clients continuously request changes without wanting to incur additional costs, while others have expectations that are simply not feasible.

2. The Common Culprits

Several factors can strain the client-company relationship:

- Demanding Rapid Turnarounds: Some clients want their projects completed in an unrealistically short time.

- Price Negotiations: Constant haggling over prices can wear down even the most patient of businesses.

- Unending Revisions: Clients who incessantly ask for design changes without understanding the associated costs can be challenging to work with.

- Unrealistic Expectations: Some customers expect more than what was agreed upon, leading to dissatisfaction on both sides.

3. The Final Straw

What does it take for a sign company to decide to "fire" a client?

The reasons can be varied:

- Consistently late payments

- Excessive changes to projects

- Rudeness or pushiness

- Disrespect towards the team

- Other reasons include dishonesty, always being in a rush, and price shopping

4. The Silver Lining

While parting ways with a client is never the first choice, sometimes it’s a necessary decision for the betterment of the business. However, 37% of sign companies believe that all customers are salvageable, and it’s up to the company to guide them into being good clients.

5. A Word of Advice

For new customers stepping into the world of signage, understanding the intricacies and efforts behind creating signs can lead to a smoother working relationship. Recognising the hard work, creativity, and dedication that goes into each project can foster mutual respect and appreciation.

Conclusion

The relationship between sign companies and their clients is a delicate balance of understanding, communication, and mutual respect. While most relationships flourish, some might require re-evaluation for the betterment of both parties. In the end, it’s about ensuring that both the client and the company can work harmoniously towards a common goal.

INTRODUCING THE SELF-ADHESIVE INDUSTRY SUSTAINABILITY ACTION GROUP

We are thrilled to announce the launch of the SelfAdhesive Industry Sustainability Action Group, a pioneering initiative that brings together some of the biggest names in the self-adhesive films industry in the UK, in a united effort to lead the industry towards a more sustainable future.

The focus on sustainability has never been greater and the call to action has never been louder, so the idea about a collaborative approach was created. It was obvious from the start that a group approach was required to tackle the most challenging sustainability issues.

Individually, each company has been working on their own sustainability strategies and developing innovative and sustainable products. However, when it comes to the challenge of tackling end of life recycling and circular economy issues, a collaborative approach was required.

So, the Group’s mission was clear: a collaborative approach to work together, forge a new path for a circular economy by focusing on the waste hierarchy approach of key self-adhesive industry materials.

Mission Statement: "Our mission is to lead the selfadhesive films industry towards a sustainable future by minimising our environmental impact. We focus on dealing with waste through the waste hierarchy –prioritising waste prevention and minimisation, followed by creating new waste recycling solutions and waste-to-energy alternatives to divert waste materials away from landfill. We encourage the development of new recycling initiatives that reduce landfill waste and increase recycling rates, forging a new path for a circular economy."

With a deep commitment to making a positive change, the Self-Adhesive Industry Sustainability Action Group aims to bring together industry leaders to address the pressing sustainability challenges facing the self-adhesive films industry. By collaborating on this important sustainability issue, we believe we can make a tangible difference in mitigating the impact of our products on the environment.

Benefits of a Collaborative Approach:

• Collaborative Solutions: By coming together, we will exchange knowledge and share best practices, leading to innovative solutions that propel the entire industry towards more sustainable solutions.

• Enhanced Focus: Participating in this collective effort demonstrates our commitment to environmental responsibility, showcasing each member as leaders in sustainability.

• Influence and Advocacy: As a united front, we will have a stronger voice to advocate for policy changes and industry-wide adoption of enhanced sustainable practices.

• Networking Opportunities: The action group provides a platform for networking and forming working partnerships with like-minded businesses and organizations in adjacent industries.

• Industry Leadership: By being part of the Self-Adhesive Industry Sustainability Action Group, members will take a leading role in shaping the future of self-adhesive materials recycling, contributing to a better, more sustainable & circular industry approach.

The Self-Adhesive Industry Sustainability Action Group presents a unique and transformative opportunity for the self-adhesive industry to collaborate and drive significant positive change. So, what is the Group’s focus on waste?

Group Focus on Waste:

1. Waste Hierarchy Focus: Prioritize waste prevention and minimization to reduce the environmental footprint of self-adhesive materials, aiming to minimize waste generation.

2. Recycling Initiatives: Support the development of new, innovative, robust recycling initiatives that will drastically reduce landfill waste and increase recycling rates, transforming waste materials into valuable resources.

3. Waste-to-Energy Solutions: Explore and promote waste-toenergy alternatives to divert waste materials away from landfills, transforming them into renewable sources of energy.

4. Circular Economy Advocacy: Adopt circular economy principles to ensure the efficient use of resources and minimize waste generation, enhance recycling opportunities, and promote a more sustainable, self-adhesive materials industry.

The Self-Adhesive Industry Sustainability Action Group serves as an open forum for the members, welcoming diverse perspectives and expertise to collectively solve the key sustainability challenges facing the self-adhesive films industry.

For More Information Contact – Steve Lister, Chair, SAISAG on steve@stevelister.com

THE TIMES THEY ARE A-CHANGIN’

- Bob Dylan

Yes, times are changing. We’re seeing massive growth and acceptance of fusion finishes in the commercial market. New dealers are appearing daily, as that what typically happens when a new, market disrupting product appears. The existing dealers, who have already navigated the complexities of starting up a new business...especially in a new industry...are seeing growth and acceptance by the market.

Over these last 9 months, Editor Rosie and I have had many discussions. Some simply about the tech aspects of the materials in the market, some dealing with technical issues that our industry needs to know more about and some simply about business and how to grow a fusion company from startup to mature business entity.

These conversations are cherished to me, for it’s an indication that these finishes are finally getting the kind of wide market acceptance that we need to see for this entire market to see the same kind of universal acceptance that we see now in the Pacific Rim market, for in that market we see these products used on virtually every commercial renovation project and many residential projects as well.

Every month this year, the Vinyl Pros editorial team has strived to put forward a magazine packed with value for the reader. We’ve featured giants in our industry, showing the projects and strategies that have allowed them to penetrate a new market successfully. We’ve also featured newer dealers trying to figure out this entire confusing market in a way that lets them build a viable business.

Each issue has also featured advertisements by the big players in our industry, some manufacturers, some regional distributors and some simply local businesses that want to be seen as supporting the fusion industry as we all seek to make sense of how our products best fit the current market, while also looking forward to the future.

It’s with this “future view state of mind in consideration that I write this article, because Rosie and I are in agreement that we need to take a major step forward in content for Vinyl Pros.

This magazine, from it’s inception, has been primarily focused on building the body of knowledge within the fusion business. Sure, we have also featured other closely related industries, simply because it seemed to be a good idea at the time. Industries like the automotive wrap business, the window film business and even mainstream business-like digital printing and signage are all related to what we do here in the fusion world. These market segments are all connected to what we do, yet they each have their own specific market drivers, skills and perception by the general public. Also, most importantly, all of these industries are mature from a market standpoint. If I say “car wrap , almost everyone in the general population will immediately know what I’m talking about. Acceptance and understanding by the public is what determines a mature industry.

Except that the fusion industry is still in the early phases of acceptance by the public. If you say "commercial wrapping", "door wrapping", "flexible finishing", "fusion installation" or any of the other buzzwords that we associate with what we do, the public will mostly look at you with a quizzical eye.

Oh, by the way, it’s way worse in America. Europe is beginning to see widespread acceptance of our finishing system, but here in the US, we’re woefully behind.

And that brings me to another important point. I’ve had more than a few folks on BOTH sides of the pond get a wee bit cranky when I say we’re a ‘new’ industry or we’re "just starting out", because those folks are enmeshed in their industry, speak the language and know exactly what they’re trying to accomplish. The problem is, you can’t see your own business clearly when you’re in the middle of it.

For example, my wife Jeanne is a Physio and she owns a thriving practice. It frequently happens that I overhear her on the phone with a client or potential client, explaining how physical therapy can help them with their "issue". Also, fairly frequently, I hear her using terms to explain physical issues that are very "medical"and not language used by the general public...and there is the rub...she’s in the middle of her industry. Years of schooling and more years of practice, surrounded by other practitioners that "speak her language". Yet she frequently forgets that the general public has zero idea of what the "Ischial Tuberosities" are or why that matters to them...so I find myself hinting at her to back off the medical language because her patients don’t speak the same language that she does within her industry.

We face the same challenge in the fusion industry. Simply stating "I apply fusions" is a phrase that is most likely to return a confused look from someone who has never seen the product previously. And understanding our industry and how we can change the architectural landscape is the most important job we all do right now. We all have to remember that our industry is new, and still mostly unknown to the general public...it’s even mostly unknown to a lot of the folks that claim to be part of our industry.

And this brings me to the title of this article...the times, indeed, are a changing.

We are seeing rapid growth in the industry and the editorial team here at Vinyl pros understands that we need to keep this growth moving forward...and frankly, accelerating.

Actions over the last few months, Rosie and I have repeatedly talked about the direction that Vinyl Pros should take moving forward as an industry-leading magazine. Some of our discussions have centered on related industries as I talked about before...things like signage, window film and digital print. Even included feature articles in the magazine about some of these related industries.

I am doing those featured articles, we began to realize that we are getting away from the core competency, which Vinyl Pros provides to the industry... And that is to deliver high-quality information about products, technical skills and business savvy that are required to keep our industry growing rapidly.

For this reason, I am proud to say that Rosie and I have made the decision to double down on the fusion business and make Vinyl Pros a focused and dedicated magazine that supports the fusion industry by tightening the focus to spotlight companies, tools, products and people that are highly focused on the fusion market.

Sure, we will occasionally have an article that may spotlight some related industry, but we are going to try our best to deepen the dive into the commercial fusion world that Vinyl Pros is known for. Our content will become broader within our business segment, highlighting the complexities, difficulties, and success

stories that we see here at Vinyl Pros on a daily basis.

Order to provide the best quality and content for you, the professionals involved in our fusion industry, we have made the decision to make the magazine, a quarterly publication rather than monthly. This will give us the time needed to develop better articles and technical information that will help you grow your business even more rapidly than you have in the past.

Please realize that this decision did not come lightly. There are big benefits to being in front of the fusion industry on a monthly basis, but having said that, Rosie and I both realize that we each have other businesses that are our primary motivators, and we are producing this content for Vinyl Pros on the side... and that can be a bit of a struggle.

You, are valued and trusted readers, deserve the very best and content about our industry, and we have mutually realized that we need to take a small step back in order to make a major leap forward. Moving the magazine to quarterly means that we all have more time to develop even better content for our future issues.

Also, we are in the early stages of developing "World Fusion Conference", a meeting of the minds with the fusion industry that will be international in scope, bringing together the best, and the brightest to help move our industry forward. We hope to have more about this conference in early 2024.

From a personal standpoint, I cannot be more excited to see the changes that are ahead, and I hope that all of you follow along with Rosie and I as we seek to create a magazine that delivers the specific, high-quality content that our industry needs to take the fusion business to the next level.

I am blessed to be a small part of helping lead this charge, and I hope that you will all follow along as we continue to grow Vinyl Pros into a publication which is viewed by our industry as "the" authority for fusion industry-related education.

Thank you for following along and we look forward to seeing what the future holds with our next quarterly issue in January 2024.

INTERIOR INSIGHTS with Louise Wynne

Hello and welcome back to Part 2 of our deep dive into those, often, most tedious of spaces; the Lobby & the Lift.

Let’s face it, the design of them is usually an afterthought, but when organisations get it right, it’s powerful stuff. Good design sets the scene and whets the appetite for the journey into the rest of the building. Want to get your clients on side? You can enable them to feel happy or excited, relaxed or intrigued (insert other adjectives where necessary) the second they arrive, by planning their arrival to perfection.

Your homework last month then? As a reminder, it was to think about lobby areas with your brand identity in mind and consider:

1. The colour scheme and how you can weave colours into your design. What proportion of each colour will work e.g. if there’s black in your branding, you might want to use it sparingly (or not, depending on what your building is used for!)

2. The feeling you want to create when people walk through that door, and how you can use colour and texture to achieve this.

I presume you’ve completed the homework you were set and are eagerly awaiting the next phase? Excellent, let’s go!...

To help, we’re going to take a look at a unique hotel in Japan, which we can learn alot from, as they do this lobby thing so well. The architects and designers have considered the elements we’ve talked about (branding and colour palette) all with the hotel’s IDEAL client in mind. I’ll talk you through the design and I’ll also give some recommendations from Cover Styl’ and Surfex that would look right at home in the space.

Introducing the stunning Ace Hotel in Kyoto.

The building that houses this hotel was designed in 1926 by a local architect, who was fascinated by European & Scandi design. With that in mind, the brief for the interior designer was to create an ‘East meet West’ aesthetic, allowing international guests to feel at home, whilst soaking up the atmosphere and traditions of Japanese life.

First, let’s take a look at some of the materials used. The Japanese love using wood in their designs and I talked last month about how wood is so effective for many reasons. It can bring the feeling of warmth, stability and approachability into a space and you can see it used in the Ace on walls and furniture, in an array of colours and finishes from silky smooth dark walnuts to pale textured rattans. This blending of styles, colours and finishes is no accident. It’s been beautifully considered and carefully thought through to appeal to the hotel’s cosmopolitan, interiors loving guests.

Open your Surfex sample book and you’ll be greeted by a gorgeous collection of wood finishes. You can create a look like the Ace by pairing the sexy (yes, I did just say that – I got very excited when I saw the sample!)

Zebrano MG 3063, with the paler Elm NG 218 & White Ash NG 2001. A striking combination of colours, textures and patterns – and all from just the use of wood.

So, we’ve nailed the wood, now on to the metal. The Ace hotel uses copper with a rusty patina; a brown-ish worn look produced over time through the oxidisation of the metal. There’s nothing quite like it in my sample books but I particularly like Cover Styl’s NE48 or Surfex’s MG 448. They add a touch of luxury, without being OTT or bling.

Other considerations for your design would be;

- Create an open and inviting layout where people can move freely

- Consider lighting, both natural and artificial, to create ambience throughout the day

- Use artwork that ties in with your theme. Sculptural lighting can act as functional artwork, so it ticks more than one box. Don’t be afraid to supersize on both of these elements - small can look cheap

- Keep the space clutter-free. Bespoke shelving can be a great investment for reception areas and may not be as expensive as you think.

- Reflective surfaces are a winner for bouncing the light around and giving the illusion of space, so use mirrors alongside your metal finish vinyl

Finally, let’s look at the lift area. I don’t have a photo of the lifts at the Ace Hotel, but I imagine they look a little like this.

All the considerations about brand, colour, and behaviours still apply, just on a teeny tiny scale. So, where the Ace Hotel’s lobby is sleek with accents of metal and simple ‘clean’ lines, so is the lift interior. In fact, I’d suggest using some of the same materials and finishes that you have on the ground floor. This is likely to save on cost and will give the building a cohesive look and feel.

Also think about:

- Durability; this area must be able to withstand a lot of traffic and be easy to clean. No grubby finger marks in sight, please!

- Lighting is ultra important. Make sure it’s soft, diffused and at more than one level.

- Mirrors – personally I hate them in such a confined space but maybe that’s just me?

- Create a focal point; art or a decorative panel (like in this photo) or even a cool handrail will all work well

- Heavily patterned or durable flooring will keep the space from looking grubby

What next? An injection of colour, that’s what! But it’s very minimal and it’s only used sparingly to draw the eye to the shelving units behind the reception, used to store for sale apparel. Clever eh? If you’d like colour that’s not from wood or metal, you can choose any relevant to your brand, and remember the colour you use, along with the rest of the colours and textures in your scheme, will determine the mood, and therefore the behaviour, of visitors. Refer to last month’s section on colour psychology again, if it helps. There’s no doubt that blues and greens work particularly well with wood tones so if these colours are in your brand, you’re on to a winner without even trying!

Once again, we’ve reached the end and I feel like I’ve only scratched the (vinyl) surface of what can be done. I hope we’ve inspired you to go big and go bold with your designs with the understanding that big and bold doesn’t necessarily mean bright, in yer face colour (though it can if it’s right for your brand).

What’s next on the agenda my Vinyl Wrapping Crew? Requests are welcome in this club! Until the next time

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