Signs Express, the UK's largest signs and graphics franchise, is celebrating another milestone in its franchise expansion strategy, welcoming established independent signage business The Sign Company (E.G) Ltd into its growing network from 1 November 2026.

Based in East Grinstead, West Sussex, The Sign Company (E.G) Ltd has been trading for more than 35 years and is operated by husband-and-wife team Marion and Robert Baker, alongside their son Joel.

The partnership marks the latest success for the Signs Express rebrand proposition, which enables established independent signage businesses to join a nationally recognised franchise network whilst retaining the customer relationships, reputation and foundations they have worked hard to build.

Supporting Business Succession and Future Growth

Having successfully operated their business for more than three decades, Marion and Rob began exploring their longer-term retirement and succession plans earlier this year.

Following discussions with Signs Express in March 2026, the family identified the rebrand proposition as an opportunity to secure the future of their business whilst providing Joel, who already has extensive signage industry experience, with the support and infrastructure to gradually take on greater responsibility and ultimately ownership.

Through the partnership, the business will benefit from the Signs Express brand, established systems, preferential supplier relationships, and dedicated franchise support across sales, marketing, operations and business development.

The agreement also creates a new Signs Express territory, strengthening the network's presence across the Southeast of England.

An Alternative Route into Franchising

Launched approximately 18 months ago, the Signs Express rebrand proposition was developed to provide independent signage business owners with an alternative route into franchise ownership.

Whether considering retirement, succession planning or opportunities for further growth, the model enables established businesses to benefit from the resources, expertise and national recognition of the Signs Express brand.

Jonathan Bean, Managing Director of Signs Express Limited, commented:

"We're absolutely delighted to welcome Marion, Rob, Joel and the entire team at The Sign Company (E.G) Ltd into the Signs Express family.

Their story is a fantastic example of why we developed our rebrand proposition. Having spent more than 35 years building a successful and respected business, Marion and Rob are now looking to secure its future for the next generation.

By joining Signs Express, they can protect the legacy they've created whilst providing Joel with the backing of an established franchise network as he prepares to take the business forward in the coming years.

We know there are many independent signage business owners considering their next chapter, whether that's retirement, succession or growth. Our rebrand proposition offers the opportunity to build on their existing success with the support, infrastructure and commercial opportunities of a national brand."

A Phased Transition

The business will initially trade as Signs Express (East Grinstead), proudly operated by The Sign Company (E.G) Ltd, before fully transitioning to the Signs Express brand exclusively in the next 12 to 24 months. This gradual process will ensure continuity for customers, reassuring them that the familiar faces, trusted relationships and high standards of service they have come to expect will remain unchanged.

The partnership follows the successful rebrand of Signs Express Exeter in early 2025 and represents another positive step in the development of the group's franchise recruitment strategy.

Emma Wakefield, Head of Franchise Recruitment at Signs Express, added:

"It's been an absolute pleasure getting to know Marion, Rob and Joel over the last few months, and their journey perfectly demonstrates the opportunities our rebrand proposition can offer.

All business owner’s circumstances and ambitions are different. Whether they're looking to grow, plan for retirement or pass their business on to the next generation, our approach is about understanding their goals and exploring how Signs Express can support them.

We're really excited to welcome the family into the network and look forward to supporting the continued success of Signs Express (East Grinstead)."

Explore the Signs Express Rebrand Opportunity

With over 35 years of industry experience and more than 60 locations across the UK and Ireland, Signs Express continues to expand through new franchise opportunities, existing centre acquisitions and its growing rebrand proposition.

Independent signage business owners considering their next chapter are invited to explore how joining Signs Express could support their ambitions.

To find out more, get in touch with our Signs Express Franchise Recruitment team for a confidential, no-obligation conversation.