The title is one of a trio of trophies received by Astra Group at the Sign & Wrap Awards, including two for its work with Co-op Live.
Astra Group is rejoicing having won a hattrick of accolades at this year’s Sign & Wrap Awards. The national awards, hosted at The Hilton Metropole in Birmingham bring together sign makers and vinyl wrapping professionals from across the UK & Ireland to recognise and celebrate the very best of the industry.
There was good cause for celebration for Astra Group as the Manchester headquartered business overcame stiff competition to be awarded the highly coveted title Signage Company of the Year.
Speaking on the night, the judges said: “Astra Group sets the standard for industry innovation, quality, and sustainability. The business’s commitment to people is evident through extensive benefits and growth opportunities, all while continuously advancing processes and technology.”
Adding to the occasion, Astra Group was also recognised for its work with Europe’s largest indoor arena, Co-op Live, taking Silver in the Best Architectural Sign category and Bronze for Best Interior Decor. It is the third time that Astra Group’s work with the venue has been recognised, with the two Manchester organisations having also been recognised in the 2024 UK Graphics Awards, in the Hospitality and Leisure Signage category.
Speaking on the business’s success, Astra Group CEO, Jim Kerr, said, “This is a significant win and one I am thrilled to celebrate with all of the team, without whom none of this would be possible. As a business, we’re committed to pushing forward, not only for our own benefit, but for that of our industry. We put our people and our values first whilst being just that little bit different. It’s fantastic to see this recognised and Astra Group announced Signage Company of the Year.”
Astra Group were required to consider a number of complexities to meet the signage brief for Co-op Live, which included the design, manufacture, and installation all exterior, neon, graphic, infinity mirror and large format LED displays.
These included the various substrates of the building including brick, block, and concrete, which necessitated versatile and adaptive materials to be used, and the evolving nature of the venue, which required all graphic signage to be easily and cleanly removed.
In keeping with Co-op Live’s vision to be the most sustainable arena in Europe, the architectural, illuminated and graphic signage was designed and produced using the latest innovative and environmentally conscious materials to create a visually impactful and functional environment fitting with one of the world’s most prominent indoor arenas.
Holly Watson, Head of Marketing at Co-op Live, added, “What a fantastic win for everyone involved! The innovative signage solutions Astra Group produced for Co-op Live went above and beyond, blending high quality design, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology. The final result is absolutely stunning and built to last. We’re so happy to collaborate and see the incredible work of the team recognised!”