77 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 260 - August / September 2025 Trade Etching Direct (TED) is one of these companies as it works as a trade supplier of etched signage and decorative metalwork. The company says: “The team works closely with sign-makers, designers, and fabricators to deliver expertly finished outcomes across one-off pieces, multi-site rollouts, and bespoke creative briefs.” Speaking about its capabilities, the company adds: “TED’s in-house fibre laser cutting capabilities deliver precision-cut flat lettering in a range of metals – suitable for both everyday signage and high-impact architectural applications. Where added detail is needed, letters can also be etched with fine detail, patinated, or paint infilled, all in-house under one roof. This integrated setup allows sign-makers to source both standard and decorative cut letters direct from TED.” The company says TED’s flat cut letters are used in a range of applications including minimalist internal signage and large-scale branding in public and commercial spaces. “Combining etching, patination, and laser cutting, TED’s flat cut letters give sign-makers a distinctive alternative to standard cut lettering. From luxury retail and boutique hotels to heritage projects and wayfinding schemes, the service offers designers new ways to express brand, character, and identity in metal.” Also working in the metal space and specialising in a range of design and fabrication methods, Nova Aluminium is another established trade-only supplier which prides itself on the trust of its customers and its ability to continuously refine its systems in response to feedback from the industry. When asked about using Nova’s services, Lisa Sperring, sign sales manager at Nova, says: “Aluminium systems may be relatively easy to fabricate in principle, but many sign-makers face issues that make in-house production difficult, such as having the space and keeping fabrication separate from the more clinical environment required for laying vinyl for example. Our bespoke set up and state-of-the-art machinery allows us to produce large volumes quickly and efficiently – something not every signage business has the capacity to do. “While we support in-house fabrication wherever it’s possible – and indeed, encourage those with the space and capability to take it on – we’re here for when that’s not feasible. A clean, clinical environment often isn’t suitable for profile cutting or large-scale fabrication, which is where we step in.” Sperring agrees with previous comments that questions are vitally important for those new to working with trade suppliers. “Most trade suppliers, ourselves included, are more than happy to share knowledge and experience. That spirit of collaboration is what keeps our industry strong,” says Sperring. This year Nova Aluminium Systems has celebrated its 20th anniversary which has led to the company holding a variety of celebrations throughout the business. Nova’s celebrations reflect its ability to show itself as a personal and relatable company, which is important when communicating with customers and other suppliers. Sperring adds: “Trade suppliers and sign-makers rely on each other – it’s a partnership built on mutual expertise. One TRADE SIGNAGE | DAVID OSGAR Founded in 2005, Nova Aluminium Systems is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year 20th ▼Trade Etching Direct (TED) was founded in 2012 ▲Lisa Sperring, sales and marketing manager at Nova Aluminium Systems, has been with the company since the early days of its formation
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