Signs Express has announced that established independent signage business The Sign Company (E.G) Ltd will join its national network from 1 November 2026, marking another milestone in the development of its business rebrand proposition.
Based in East Grinstead, West Sussex, the family-run company is owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Marion and Robert Baker, alongside their son Joel. Operating for more than 35 years they have built an excellent reputation for delivering high-quality signage and graphics solutions to businesses across the local area.
The partnership represents an exciting new chapter for the family business, combining its established local reputation and customer relationships with the resources, expertise and national recognition of the Signs Express franchise network.
It also marks the creation of a new Signs Express territory, strengthening the brand’s presence across the Southeast of England.
Supporting Business Succession and Future Growth
Having successfully operated the business for more than three decades, Marion and Rob began exploring their longer-term plans for retirement and succession earlier this year.
Following initial discussions with Signs Express in March 2026, the family recognised the opportunity to secure the future of their business whilst providing Joel with the support and infrastructure to gradually take on greater responsibility and ultimately ownership.
Through the partnership, the East Grinstead business will benefit from the Signs Express brand, established operational systems, preferential supplier relationships, and dedicated Franchise Support Centre, including ongoing support across sales, marketing, business development and operational management.
The arrangement is designed to complement the team’s existing industry expertise whilst creating additional opportunities for future investment and growth.
A Phased Approach to Rebranding
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.
An Expanding Proposition for Independent Signage Businesses
The East Grinstead partnership follows the successful rebrand of the Signs Express Exeter centre in early 2025, when established signage business owners Diane and Mike Back joined the network.
Launched approximately 18 months ago, the Signs Express rebrand proposition has been developed to provide independent signage businesses with an alternative route into franchising.
The model is designed for established business owners who may be considering succession planning, retirement, business expansion or simply looking for the additional support and commercial opportunities associated with a nationally recognised 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 to Signs Express.
Having built such a successful and well-respected business over more than 35 years, Marion and Rob have created a fantastic foundation for the future. It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to support them with their succession plans whilst helping Joel prepare to take the business into its next chapter.
Our rebrand proposition was developed with businesses like The Sign Company (E.G) Ltd in mind. There are many excellent independent signage businesses across the UK with established reputations, experienced teams and loyal customers, but owners can face challenges when it comes to succession planning or unlocking their next phase of growth.
By joining Signs Express, these businesses can retain the foundations that have made them successful whilst accessing the brand recognition, infrastructure and ongoing support of an established franchise network.
Following our successful Exeter rebrand, it’s exciting to welcome another established signage business into the network, and we look forward to working closely with the Marion, Rob, Joel and the entire team as they embark on this exciting journey.”
Looking Ahead
With more than 35 years of experience and over 60 locations across the UK and Ireland, Signs Express continues to expand its national presence through a combination of new franchise opportunities, existing business acquisitions and its developing rebrand proposition.
The addition of Signs Express (East Grinstead) further demonstrates the network’s commitment to supporting independent signage businesses and creating sustainable opportunities for future growth and business succession within the sector.