As the United Kingdom’s regulatory body for the signage and graphics industry, the BSGA is committed to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of traditional glass neon sign making – a craft that remains integral to the visual, creative, and cultural identity of our sector.
In recent decades, the United Kingdom’s (UK) signage industry has witnessed neon evolve from a commercial mainstay to a specialised art form. Whilst its market share may have decreased with the rise of new technologies, its cultural and aesthetic value has grown significantly. Today, neon is a niche yet, vital component of our signage community, championed by those who value craftsmanship, artistry, and design excellence.
Authentic handcrafted traditional glass neon signage carries a unique authenticity, continuing to enrich our creative landscape. Neon craftsmanship is more than a production method; it is an art form steeped in tradition, requiring exceptional skill in glass manipulation, temperature control, and gas reactions.
Forming part of our ongoing commitment to protecting the craft of neon, the BSGA has a long-standing history of advocacy. Notably, during the introduction of the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive, the BSGA Team successfully lobbied to secure an exemption for traditional neon signage. This critical exemption ensured the controlled use of mercury – a key component for producing certain colours – could continue under strict regulation.
By providing technical evidence, engaging with regulators, and highlighting the artisanal nature of traditional glass neon, the BSGA helped prevent legislation that could have significantly impacted the future of traditional neon within the UK. This achievement remains an anchor for our continued efforts to protect the authenticity, safety, and sustainability of this exceptional discipline.
It is our belief that traditional glass neon will continue to evolve as a form of creative practice. Whilst its role in large-scale commercial signage may remain limited, its presence in retail, hospitality, interior design, and the art world is likely to evolve. The BSGA considers that there is great potential to be harnessed in the collaboration between traditional sign makers and contemporary designers, between digital platforms and physical installations, and between regulators and craftspeople. Innovation within heritage presents exciting opportunities, and we are optimistic about the future. Neon may be niche, but it is far from obsolete. It has simply found new avenues where its beauty and history can continue to be celebrated and shine!
As part of our ongoing advocacy, we are proud to share that, thanks to the tireless efforts of Catherine and Tony Spink from Neon Creations (https://www.neoncreations.co.uk), a petition calling for the protection and correct definition of traditional glass neon has been approved by the Petitions Team in the House of Commons and is now live.
We urge all BSGA members to sign and share the petition: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/721411.
Such thoughtful attention has been given to the subject matter, especially through the lens of heritage preservation and accurate terminology — both of which are important to the integrity of our industry.
It is important to note that this campaign does not seek to undermine or discredit the role of LED technologies, which are an essential and valued part of the modern signage landscape. Rather, the focus is on ensuring that traditional glass neon – crafted by skilled artisans – is accurately defined and clearly distinguished from other technologies. Clear terminology will help protect heritage skills, champion the wide and varied product and service portfolio of our industry, promote transparency for all stakeholders, and ensure that both neon and LED technologies are recognised and respected for their unique qualities.
If you have any questions, queries, or would like more information about this campaign, or if you would like to discuss how we can continue to protect and promote both neon and LED technologies, please do not hesitate to contact the BSGA Team. We are here to support you and provide guidance as we work together to preserve the integrity and future of our industry.