Signs of the times as deal sees specialist acquire Action group

DeSigns, which is based on the Sutton Fields Industrial Estate in Hull, said it has retained all existing employees at Action Signs. DeSigns, which has an annual turnover of £1.4m, said the move would allow it to expand the signage side of its business. It now employs 27 staff, including the nine from Action Signs.

DeSigns, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, already produces all types of signage for customers nationwide, from simple printed banners, panels and fascias to more complex bespoke signage.

Action Signs, which has a £450,000 turnover and was based on West Dock Avenue, Goulton Street, Hull, produced signage primarily for the retail sector. DeSigns said that its acquisition of Action Signs will help it deal with increased demand and offer enhanced services to its customers.

The former managing director of Action Signs, Charlie Petrie, will become business development director for DeSigns. Rob Daysley, managing director of DeSigns, said: “This is a win-win situation for DeSigns and Action Signs. We had wanted to develop our signage operations to meet growing demand. By acquiring the dedicated and skilled team at Action Signs, as well as its in-house installation service, we are immediately able to enhance and expand our service to our customers. At the same time, we have been able to retain Action Signs’ employees.

“I am very optimistic about business at the moment. We are currently celebrating our 20th anniversary and have seen encouraging growth in recent months. This acquisition is part of our strategic development plan to strengthen our signage division.”

Mr Petrie said: “I am delighted by this deal. DeSigns shares our own approach to quality and customer service so there is a good fit in terms of bringing the two companies together.

“The move included the re-employment of Action Signs’ staff, and our customers will now experience the added benefits available through the wide range of additional facilities and resources available in DeSigns.”