ARCHITECTURAL WRAPPING | ROB FLETCHER 71 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 266 - August | September 2026 is surface preparation – understanding the substrate and ensuring it is clean, stable, and compatible with your chosen film is non-negotiable. From there, he encourages investment in proper installation training; technique matters enormously in this sector, with this what separates a clean, lasting result from a costly callback. “For those just starting out, we recommend beginning with repositionable or removable adhesive films, which are more forgiving during installation,” he says, adding: “Beyond the film itself, ensuring compatibility across the full system – print media, laminate, and end environment – is critical, as is familiarising yourself with the right application tools for each job.” Drytac’s product portfolio covers the full spectrum of architectural wrapping applications. For wall applications where repositionability is important, Payne picks out ReTac Smooth 150 and ReTac Textures, highlighting how they offer the flexibility to install, reposition, and remove without damaging the underlying surface. For businesses seeking a non-PVC alternative, he says Paper Fleece Air offers a sustainable wallcovering option without compromising on performance. Meanwhile, in projects where a permanent solution is required, Polar Premium Air and Polar Smooth 150 Air P are strong performers. Further still, for more challenging substrates, Polar Grip Air and Polar HiGrab Air are formulated specifically for harder-to-adhere-to surfaces, while Viziprint Impress Clear is Payne’s “go-to recommendation” for glass applications. “The opportunity set in this market is broad and growing,” Payne says, adding: “Sign-makers entering this space can expect to find strong demand in interior transformations – walls, doors, lifts, and furniture are all viable substrates – as well as retail and hospitality refurbishments, where visual refreshes need to happen quickly and cost-effectively. “Office rebranding and wayfinding upgrades represent another consistent revenue stream, and short-term promotional or seasonal interior graphics are a natural extension for sign-makers already producing campaign work. The common thread is that clients in all these sectors want impactful results without the disruption and cost of structural changes.” Diversify Into HigherValue Projects Next up is Tiffany Parkin, architectural manager at Space Architectural Interiors, who says the biggest driver in this market is simple – businesses want maximum impact with minimum disruption. She says demand across hospitality, retail, offices, For those just starting out, we recommend beginning with repositionable or removable adhesive films, which are more forgiving during installation ▲ReTac Smooth 150 from Drytac can be installed, repositioned, and removed without damaging the underlying surface Recent research suggests the global decorative surface films market will grow at a CAGR of 6.6% through to 2032, driven by demand for refurbishment, customisation, and sustainable alternatives to replacement furniture Factoid
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