Author: Blu Hardy

Hardy Signs win big at the Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce Awards 2023.

We are delighted to announce that Hardy Signs have been chosen as the winners for the Manufacturer of the Year at Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce Awards 2023. The award celebrates a company that has excelled in Manufacturing over the past three years.  

Sponsored by Air IT, the judges were looking at all aspects associated with the business; including short and long-term objectives, manufacturing processes, examples of innovation, efficiency, sustainability and more. The judges spoke with managing director, Nik Hardy, to understand more about the work that takes place at Hardy Place in Burton.JTNDaWZyYW1lJTIwd2lkdGglM0QlMjI1NjAlMjIlMjBoZWlnaHQlM0QlMjIzMTUlMjIlMjBzcmMlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRnd3dy55b3V0dWJlLmNvbSUyRmVtYmVkJTJGZFJzOUtBem9lMTAlMjIlMjB0aXRsZSUzRCUyMllvdVR1YmUlMjB2aWRlbyUyMHBsYXllciUyMiUyMGZyYW1lYm9yZGVyJTNEJTIyMCUyMiUyMGFsbG93JTNEJTIyYWNjZWxlcm9tZXRlciUzQiUyMGF1dG9wbGF5JTNCJTIwY2xpcGJvYXJkLXdyaXRlJTNCJTIwZW5jcnlwdGVkLW1lZGlhJTNCJTIwZ3lyb3Njb3BlJTNCJTIwcGljdHVyZS1pbi1waWN0dXJlJTNCJTIwd2ViLXNoYXJlJTIyJTIwYWxsb3dmdWxsc2NyZWVuJTNFJTNDJTJGaWZyYW1lJTNF‘Staffordshire has long been recognised for its manufacturing history. The judges were looking at all aspects of the manufacturing process including product design, testing, development, production, marketing, sales and overall business performance. This may relate to a new product or product range, or an existing product that continues to lead the way within its field.”

Adam Johnson, Sales Direct at Air It, said: ”One company stood out amongst the rest, capturing our attention with exceptional achievements and unwavering commitment to excellence. The winning company is celebrating their 30th year of trading and left us all struck with their diversity of operations. This remarkable business has expanded their revenue streams by exploring new avenues of growth whilst simultaneously prioritising the well-being of their employees. Investing heavily in the next generation and putting back in the local community. ”

Nik Hardy, managing director of Hardy Signs, said: ”Over the last few years, our team has managed to secure projects with leading UK, European and North American brands. Within the past 24 months, we have been contracted by Commonwealth Games Birmingham 2022, a major regional shopping centre, and many other household names. We have a keen commitment to the environment, prioritising best practices in our manufacturing processes, in order to complete this vision. In recent years, we have taken significant steps to reduce waste, increase sustainability and maximise the efficiency of our manufacturing. Likewise, we have continued to invest a lot of financial resources into new technologies and staff development.

We would like to extend our congratulations to all finalists and winners of the night, including Adfield Environmental System and 1882, who were also finalists in our category!”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

Nowadays digital signage has elevated the costumers experience with just some investments in signage and screens.

Along with luxury hospitality interior and exterior designs wouldn’t be enough if there were no professional signage established. Signage for hospitality improves the brand identity and promotes recognition.

Hotel signage can enhance brand identity by incorporating the colours and ethos of your brand, giving consistency across your whole site. Your hotel signage says who you are and sets you apart from the competition.

 

Benefits of Hospitality Signage

Dynamic displays will boost the hotel’s presence and improve the customer experience. It adds value to the whole system, not just focusing on advertising. The advantages of using hotels’ digital signage have given them a chance to businesses to talk directly to the customer as never before.

If executed properly and professionally, hospitality digital signage, can produce a number of key benefits. Digital signage would generate new income, increase staff efficiency, the guest experience, enhance customer service, create more and improve the entire guest experience. Hotel digital signage also greatly benefits advertisers and the most important audience – your guests.

On the other hand by using hotel digital signage, hotels are able to showcase and position themselves as technology-driven businesses, which will add value to the hotel brand.

 

First Impression

A first impression will set a certain opinion which is difficult to be changed later on. Given the benefits of creating a professional first impression that reflects values and brand identity by applying exterior and interior signage. An example of a good first impression would start from the prominent hotel signage, which should be attractive and easily recognised.

 

Enhance Branding

Implementing digital signage drives engagement and enable customers to connect with the brand emotionally by increasing brand awareness. It also help to create, target and attract the right audience through logo, colours, designs and images.

 

Guest Experiences

There are various applications for digital signage in hotels, but the hospitality industry has seen the most success with it thus far. The desire to create something to make consumers pleased is something that hotels and other hospitality businesses share in common. Luckily, there are numerous ways in which a network of digital signage displays could improve guests stay experience.

Guest impressions will start from reception and the check-in process. During that time, video walls, weather forecasts, special offers, sales, events, restaurants and other relevant information can be shown on digital signage displays.

 

Wayfinding Signage

Another example is clear directional digital signs next to rooms, restaurants, and other amenities that elevate the guest experience by guiding them to get around quickly and safely. Wayfinding inside the building is essential for customers where; they expect a simple way to move throughout your establishment.

Unlike the traditional white paper sheet with an arrow indicating “this way,” digital signage is a more effective and attention-grabbing wayfinding and directing device. Interactive kiosks on all floors can and corners to attract and interact more with customers.

 

Exit & Emergency

Safety in hotels is one the most crucial characteristics costumers need to assurance about. Usage of signs and digital displays to give valuable information and direct guests in case of evacuation should well planned. Useful information about safety and guidance provided on visitors wait time would make them feel safe and comfortable during they stay in hotel room.

 

Check-In

From speeding up check-in to guests about your amenities, digital signage is a must-have for any hotel looking to elevate its brand and delight visitors. Speed up the check-in process with interactive kiosks. Hotel guests are usually eager to get into their rooms.

Also, visitors may check themselves in and out by installing touchscreen kiosks in the hotel lobby, freeing up staff time to focus on other tasks and meanwhile encourage engagement with guests through videos and other content.

 

Keep Guests Updated

Halls and waiting rooms are the best chance to show hotel amenities, menus and leisure facilities, such swimming pool, gym and other entertaining areas. The use of digital signage screens is an essential tool in attracting customers to your restaurant for a promotion. Use your touchscreen for people registering for free. Invite the guests to your site to participate in the activities that are being organized during the course of your stay.

Content management systems on cloud platforms are designed specifically for marketing campaigns and allow them to be delivered from any location. Some hotels use the digital signage tech to provide stock market updates for their guests, as well as local attractions, events and headlines. Whenever you use hotel digital signage, make sure you’re adding real value wow your guests.

 

Summary

Hardy Signs have 30 years experience in signage industry and a leader in quality and services provided. Digital signage for businesses is one the strengths of our award-winning team which provides a full range of support services and help to achieve the desired outcome for clients.

A wide range of services including various materials, colour and prints allows costumers to choose the best for their brand. For further information and guidance do not hesitate to visit our website and get in touch with our signage experts.

Hardy Signs, a leading provider of professional and digital signage solutions, recently opened its doors to a group of graphic and design students as part of an exciting international partnership with Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC). The event offered students from Korea a unique opportunity to gain insights into the signage industry, reinforcing Hardy Signs’ commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and its ongoing efforts to engage and inspire the next generation of creative professionals.

In line with our dedication to fostering educational development and industry engagement, Hardy Signs invited the students for an in-depth presentation and an exclusive tour of our state-of-the-art facilities. The event aimed to bridge the gap between education and the professional world, providing these talented young learners with a firsthand look at the intricacies of signage design, manufacturing and installation.

 

Presentation and Tour Highlights:

• Industry Insights: The visit began with a comprehensive presentation by Nik Hardy, Founder and Managing Director, who shared valuable insights into the signage industry and the technologies shaping the future of visual communication. Students were introduced to the various stages of the signage process, from concept design to final installation and learned about the challenges and opportunities within the industry.
• Behind-the-Scenes Facility Tour: Following the presentation, the students were taken on a guided tour of Hardy Signs’ 24,000 sq. ft. manufacturing headquarters. They observed cutting-edge equipment in action and witnessed the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into producing high-quality signage for a diverse range of sectors. The tour provided a real-world perspective on how classroom knowledge is applied in a professional setting.

Blu Hardy, Marketing Manager at Hardy Signs, expressed her enthusiasm about the ongoing partnership: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Burton and South Derbyshire College yet again to offer these students a glimpse into the dynamic world of signage. As a company that values CSR, we believe in the power of education and are always looking for ways to engage with young learners. By opening our doors to these aspiring designers, we hope to inspire their creativity and provide them with valuable industry experience.”

Corporate Social Responsibility at Hardy Signs

At Hardy Signs, CSR is an integral part of our business ethos. We recognise the importance of giving back to the community and are committed to creating opportunities for young people to learn and grow. Whether through educational partnerships, apprenticeships, or community outreach programs, we strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those around us.

This collaboration with Burton and South Derbyshire College is just one of the many ways Hardy Signs is investing in the future of the industry. By providing students with real-world experiences, we aim to cultivate the next generation of creative and technical talent, ensuring that the signage industry continues to thrive.

Get in touch today for more information about Hardy Signs and our CSR initiatives.

Business owners can attract more attention to their brands, products, and services by designing attractive and engaging promotional signage. The competitive marketplace requires businesses to display high-end signage to reach potential customers and motivate them to engage with their companies.

 

Here are the top three ways to design effective signage for your business:

1) Choose the Right Type of Signage for Your Environment

There are lots of signage options for businesses besides traditional printed signage. Modern signage options include touchscreen digital signage, freestanding digital signs, wall-mounted digital signs, floor graphics, wall graphics, vehicle vinyl wraps, 3D illuminated letters & logos, monolith signage, and more.

Think about which type of signage works best in the environment where you want to promote your business. Whether you choose a large outdoor print sign on the top of your front door or a digital standing display, select the option which best engages your target audience.

2) Make a Simple, But Powerful Design

Many business owners feel compelled to go over the top with their designs. They may want to incorporate several different colours, graphics, photos, and patterns to amaze people.

However, you will probably have better luck creating a simple and direct design for your signage because it will make your messaging stand out better. A straightforward design could include 1 to 3 colours, one image or logo, and your textual messaging. Then people will be able to understand what you want to tell them without spending too much time looking at your signage design.

3) Contact a Professional

You do not have to design your commercial signage yourself. Instead, hire an experienced and professional signage company like Hardy Signs to create the appropriate signage for your business.

Call the signage specialists of Hardy Signs at 01283 569 102 to discuss your commercial signage needs.

 

Loughborough University: LUMotorsport Pit Sponsors

 

We’re thrilled to showcase Hardy Signs’ latest collaboration and sponsorship with the Loughborough University Formula Student Team at this year’s prestigious Formula Student UK (FSUK) event, which took place at the iconic Silverstone Circuit! 

 

As a leading signage company, Hardy Signs is passionate about supporting innovation and the next generation of engineering talent. The FSUK event is a premier platform where the brightest students from across the globe showcase their engineering skills, creativity and teamwork by designing and building single-seater race cars.

 

Our collaboration with Loughborough University reflects our commitment to excellence and precision—values that are at the heart of both motorsport and high-quality signage. The Hardy Signs branding was prominently displayed at the team’s pit, offering us a unique opportunity to be part of the excitement and energy that defines Formula Student. The team achieved their best EV score to date, coming 14th out of 56 competitors! We’re proud to support their journey and can’t wait to see them in action.

When it comes to illuminated signs, there are numerous options to choose from. One of these options includes whether to use LED or neon. When deciding between the two, there are numerous variables that determine which is the best option for you.

Cost

Cost is usually a deciding factor when it comes to signage. Of course, the cost will vary depending on the size of your sign, but LED signs tend to be cheaper than neon. The cost can also vary from one supplier to another, further helping to reduce the gap between them in cost.

Cost Efficiency

However, the cost efficiency can change significantly when you take maintenance into account. Generally speaking, neon requires fewer repairs and less maintenance, reducing the cost overall. However, neon and LED both require a power supply, and LED uses less electricity than neon does.

Flexibility

When a neon light is installed, it will remain exactly the same, showing the same message for as long as it’s there. While this might be fine for some people, others will want to show a different message sometimes. LED wins in this regard because it offers you the flexibility of changing the message whenever you like.

Curb Appeal

Which type of sign has the best appeal is largely a matter of taste. However, many people prefer the warm, welcoming glow of neon over the more ‘digital’ feel of LED. Regardless, either one could be exactly what you need depending on the nature of your business and your personal preferences.
About the company: Hardy Signs is a professional and digital signage company that designs, manufactures and installs bespoke signage products to a wide range of business sectors in the United Kingdom. The company has been awarded the manufacturer of the year in 2019 and 2020.

Digital signage has taken over the advertising industry. The latest trends in digital signage include freestanding digital signs, touchscreen signage, outdoor digital signage, wall-mounted LCD screens, LCD video walls, and more.

There are several reasons to consider prioritizing digital signage above standard signage with still images and messages. Here are the top three benefits of using the latest digital signage technology to drive traffic to your business:

1) Increase Customer Engagement

Customers are immediately attracted to digital signage because the picture is often vibrant and animated with colourful images, logos, and text. Increasing customer engagement with digital signage is much easier than traditional printed signage. And thanks to the latest trends, you can install digital messaging and imagery almost anywhere.

2) Maintain a Competitive Advantage

Many businesses are not following the latest trends in digital signage technology. Instead, they still use classic printed signage to reach their customers. But you can maintain a competitive advantage by using digital signage for all your company’s promotions. Then you will attract more customers than your competition.

3) Display Multiple Designs on One Sign

Digital signage allows you to experiment with several designs on the same signage. For instance, if you use an LCD video wall to display your promotions, you could have it transition between various promotional messages and designs on the same wall. Then you don’t have to worry about taking down signs and posting new ones. The digital screen can change the designs for you automatically.

Learn More

Would you like to learn more about the latest digital signage products and how your business can benefit from them? Call Hardy Signs at 01283 569 102 to learn more today.

 

Environmental impact is on the minds of millions nationwide regarding everything from energy to signage. Consumers are now looking for businesses to step up and engage in environmentally friendly practices in all their operations, including signage production.

Here are three ways to become more environmentally friendly with your business signs.

1) Use Recycled Materials to Make Your Signs

Ensure you create your print signs with recycled or biodegradable materials that will not impact the environment. Never create signs made of non-biodegradable materials or materials which cannot be recycled.

The objective is to avoid more waste material accumulating in landfills and oceans. If you can reuse the same materials without discarding them, then you will do your part in protecting the environment.

2) Use Digital Signage

You do not need to restrict yourself to print signage any longer. Now you can use digital signage to promote your business without needing to install print materials each time you want to display a new promotion.

Digital signage allows you to program new digital imagery into the system while leaving the digital signage in the same position. As a result, you won’t need to rely on raw materials to create your signage again.

3) Hire a Signage Company with an Environmental Management System

Find a signage company implementing an environmental management system into their signage development practices. The system must satisfy the ISO 14001:2015 international standard.

Hardy Signs meets these qualifications and more. Call us at 01283 569 102 to learn more about how we can create eco-friendly signage to promote your business.

 

In the ever-evolving food industry, efficiency, waste reduction and continuous improvement are paramount to maintaining a competitive edge. Lean manufacturing, a methodology centred around these principles, has become a game-changer for food manufacturers looking to optimise their operations and consistently deliver high-quality products. At Hardy Signs, we recognise the profound impact lean manufacturing can have and are committed to supporting food manufacturers in their lean journey through strategic signage solutions. Let’s explore the transformative power of lean manufacturing in the food industry, backed by compelling statistics.

Understanding Lean Manufacturing

Lean manufacturing is a systematic approach aimed at minimising waste without sacrificing productivity. Originating from the Toyota Production System, lean principles focus on enhancing value for the customer by eliminating non-value-added activities. The core principles of lean manufacturing include:

• Value: Understanding what the customer values and delivering it efficiently.
• Flow: Ensuring that the production process flows smoothly without interruptions.
• Pull: Producing only what is needed, when it is required, based on customer demand.
• Perfection: Striving for continuous improvement in all areas of production.

The Impact of Lean Manufacturing in the Food Industry

Waste Reduction

Waste is a significant concern in food manufacturing, where it can manifest as excess inventory, overproduction, or defects. According to a study by the World Resources Institute, food loss and waste amount to roughly £1 trillion annually. Lean manufacturing helps identify and eliminate these wastes, leading to substantial cost savings and more sustainable operations.

“Implementing lean principles can reduce food waste by up to 30%, resulting in significant cost savings and environmental benefits” (Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations).

Improved Quality

Continuous improvement and defect removal are fundamental to lean manufacturing. They enhance the overall quality of food products, resulting in higher customer satisfaction and reduced costs associated with recalls and rework.

“Companies that adopt lean manufacturing report up to a 50% reduction in defects and rework costs” (Aberdeen Group).

Increased Efficiency

Lean principles streamline processes, reduce downtime and optimise resource use. This increased efficiency leads to faster production times, better labour utilisation and higher output without additional costs.

“Lean manufacturing can boost productivity by 25% to 40%” (Lean Enterprise Institute).

Enhanced Flexibility

Lean manufacturing enables food manufacturers to respond more quickly to changes in customer demand and market trends. This flexibility is crucial in an industry where consumer preferences and regulations change rapidly.

“Manufacturers utilising lean techniques experience a 20% improvement in their ability to meet changing customer demands” (McKinsey & Company).

Employee Engagement

Lean manufacturing fosters a culture of continuous improvement and teamwork. Employees are encouraged to participate in problem-solving and innovation, leading to higher engagement and job satisfaction.

“Companies that implement lean manufacturing see a 15% increase in employee engagement and satisfaction” (Gallup).

Compliance and Safety

Lean principles improve compliance with food safety regulations by standardising processes and reducing variability. This results in safer products and a more reliable production environment.

“Lean manufacturing can enhance compliance with safety regulations by 30%” (Food Safety Magazine).Implementing Lean Manufacturing with Effective Signage

Effective signage plays a crucial role in the successful implementation of lean manufacturing. At Hardy Signs, we offer tailored signage solutions that support lean principles and help food manufacturers achieve their goals.

How Signage Enhances Lean Manufacturing Efforts

• Visual Management: Tools such as floor markings, shadow boards and information boards create an organised workspace. These tools make it easy to identify abnormalities, streamline processes and ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.
• Standard Work Instructions: Clear and accessible work instructions displayed at workstations ensure that all employees follow standardised procedures. This consistency reduces variability and improves product quality.
• Safety Signage: Safety signage communicates hazards, safe practices and emergency procedures, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

Conclusion

Lean manufacturing is essential for food manufacturers seeking to enhance efficiency, reduce waste and improve quality. Effective signage is critical to lean implementation, providing the visual tools needed to support continuous improvement and operational excellence. At Hardy Signs, we are committed to helping food manufacturers achieve their lean goals through strategic signage solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can support your lean manufacturing journey and transform your operations.