Mobile Signs Grew Their Signage Business by Bringing Print In-House

Growing a signage business often comes down to one key decision: when to bring print production in-house.

Mobile Signs, a UK-based signage company, made that transition after years of outsourcing—and within just three months, they saw measurable improvements in efficiency, turnaround time, and overall business growth.

This case study explores how investing in the right print equipment helped them scale operations and take full control of their production.

 About Mobile Signs 

With over 30 years of industry experience, Mobile Signs has built a strong reputation across the UK signage sector.

After launching in 2010 following a major fleet graphics contract, the business has grown steadily into a multi-vehicle operation with a dedicated team and long-term commercial clients.

Today, they operate:

• 5 installation vans
• A growing in-house team
• Ongoing contracts with major brands
• A dedicated production facility

 The Challenge: Limitations of Outsourcing Print 

 Why outsourcing print can slow business growth 

As demand increased, outsourcing print began to create bottlenecks:

• Lack of control over production timelines
• Delays impacting customer delivery
• Risk of errors and rework
• Reduced profit margins

For growing signage businesses, these challenges are common—and often signal the need for in-house capability.

 The Solution: Investing in In-House Print Equipment 

Moving into a larger premises created the perfect opportunity for Mobile Signs to bring production in-house.

This decision was driven by:

• Increased available space
• Business growth ambitions
• A new focus on production (with next-generation involvement)
• The need for better operational control

Bringing print in-house allowed the business to:

• Improve turnaround times
• Increase production capacity
• Maintain consistent quality
• Scale without relying on third parties

 Why Mobile Signs Chose Signmaster 

 What to look for in a signage equipment supplier 

Choosing the right supplier is critical when investing in print technology.

Mobile Signs selected Signmaster based on:

• Fast and informative communication
• Transparent, pressure-free sales process
• Hands-on experience through equipment demos
• Clear guidance on finance and setup

This approach ensured they could make a confident, informed decision.

Installation, Training and Support

A successful transition to in-house print depends on more than just equipment.

Mobile Signs benefited from:

• On-time delivery and professional installation
• Tailored, easy-to-follow training
• Ongoing technical support when needed

This reduced downtime and ensured the team could start producing immediately.

Equipment Installed

Mobile Signs invested in a complete production setup:

• Roland VG3 Print & Cut Machine
• Rollover Flexi Flatbed Applicator
• Widlaminator L300

This combination enables:

• Vehicle graphics production
• Sticker printing
• Signage manufacturing

Is Bringing Print In-House Right for Your Business?

If your signage business is experiencing:

• Increasing order volumes
• Delays from outsourced suppliers
• Limited control over quality

…it may be time to consider in-house production.

Mobile Signs’ experience shows that the transition can unlock significant growth potential.

A Word from Signmaster

Lucy Kehoe, Director at Signmaster, reflects on the journey:

“It’s genuinely rewarding to hear feedback like this from our customers. Every business we work with is at a different stage, and seeing them take that next step—bringing production in-house and really starting to thrive—is exactly why we do what we do. Working with Lee and the team at Mobile Signs has been a pleasure, and it’s fantastic to see the positive impact the right setup can have in such a short space of time. We wish Lee and his team at Mobile Sign the very best moving forward”

Frequently Asked Questions 

 What are the benefits of bringing print in-house? 

 Bringing print in-house improves turnaround times, increases quality control, reduces outsourcing costs, and allows signage businesses to scale more efficiently. 

 How quickly can print equipment impact a business? 

 As shown in this case study, businesses can see measurable improvements in efficiency and growth within as little as three months. 

 What equipment do signage businesses need to start in-house printing? 

 Most setups include a print and cut machine, laminator, and application table to handle graphics, signage, and stickers. 

 Is in-house printing suitable for small signage businesses? 

 Yes—many small to mid-sized signage businesses bring print in-house as they grow to improve margins and reduce reliance on external suppliers. 

Need any support or advice? Our team is always happy to help - Contact us on 01948 662 669 or via our online form