By Melissa Donovan
Part 2 of 3
Similar to our second place winner in this year’s Application of the Year awards, the third place honoree is recognized for outside wall graphics. Turner Signs of Barnsley, U.K, has been in business since 1990 when Dean Turner, a traditional sign writer opened its doors. His son Curt Turner, director, Turner Signs, joined the business in 2006. His brother Kyle recently started at the company making the total number of employees three.
Out of a 1,600 square foot space the print service provider (PSP) offers signage in addition to vehicle livery/wrapping solutions to clients from all different backgrounds, however the majority of its base derives from the commercial/educational sector.
Authentic Aesthetic
MJE Holdings Ltd. is a repeat customer of Turner Signs. The company owns several restaurants in the Wakefield, U.K. area. The PSP had been involved in projects at other sites, so when a new restaurant was being planned it was called in to create exterior wall graphics.
ICO, the new restaurant, wanted an authentic Mexican aesthetic. Located in Wakefield, the restaurant is based underground in a former bank vault. “The client wanted to create something eye catching and maximize the space available on site. They were also aiming to achieve an authentic Mexican aesthetic, to tie in with their existing branding and, as such, didn’t want a polished, elaborate sign,” explains Curt Turner.
To achieve this, Turner suggested printing to Drytac Polar Street FX outdoor PVC-free aluminum print media. He showed an example to MJE and it agreed immediately it was the ideal graphic for its branding needs.
“The client was keen for us to install as soon as possible to help publicize the opening of the restaurant. Therefore, once a decision was made regarding materials, the job went into production and was installed within two weeks,” shares Turner.
The artwork was supplied by a local design company—Rhubarb Design House. The graphics were printed using the PSP’s Mimaki CJV150 and SS21 ink. Not a first time Drytac customer, this was the first time Turner Signs printed to Drytac Polar Street FX. “We would recommend it for an installation such as this and would definitely use it again. The customer was absolutely blown away with the final result. We have been working with Drytac media for about four years and know how flexible its products are for jobs like this,” admits Turner.
Drytac Polar Street FX is a PVC-free aluminum media suitable for outdoor floor and wall graphics, without the need for lamination. Boasting several slip ratings, Polar Street FX was specifically developed for rough ground or wall surfaces such as brick, concrete, asphalt, or any other low energy surfaces.
Coated on one side with a clear, high-tack adhesive, Drytac Polar Street FX is compatible with latex, UV, and eco-solvent printing.
When asked why this job was nominated for the Application on the Year contest, Turner says he believes it is a good representation of what Drytac Polar Street FX can achieve.
And how has Turner Signs faired since the project was completed? “As a business we have remained busy in 2023, fulfilling existing contracts whilst also winning new ones and completing ‘one off’ projects.”
At that pace, 2024 looks bright.
The final article in this series spotlights the honorable mention winner—TPM Color Lab—of this year’s contest.
Aug23, Digital Output
