2026 PREDICTIONS | DAVID OSGAR Sam Yarnall, Clarity Software Companies are realising that manual processes and disconnected systems are holding them back. The demand for data driven insights and complete visibility across operations has grown significantly. Customers are also expecting a faster, more personalised service, pushing print and signage businesses to rethink how they manage everything from quoting to delivery. Looking ahead, the drive for connected workflows and automation will only accelerate. Businesses will expect their CRM, quoting, and production tools to work seamlessly together, with data flowing across every stage of the customer journey. The need for real time insights will continue to shape business decisions, as companies use data to improve accuracy, profitability, and customer experience. The best time to prepare for the future is now. Start by auditing your current workflow, identify where time and money are being lost through manual processes or multiple systems. Invest in a scalable software solution that can grow and adapt with your business. Most importantly, empower your team to make the most of the tools you implement. Software is only as effective as the people who use it, so ongoing training will be key. As we move into 2026, only businesses that invest into their processes will thrive. Efficiency, integration, and business insights are no longer optional; they’re essential to staying competitive in a fast-evolving marketplace. Scott Clutton, China Print Supplies Over the past year, we’ve seen significant advancements in printer technology, particularly in the speed of development and adaptability of Chinese-made machines. Unlike traditional Japanese brands that release major updates every five or six years, Chinese manufacturers are innovating at a rapid pace, offering customisation, modular upgrades, and continual software improvements. This has allowed customers to stay competitive and flexible in a fast-changing market. We expect the pace of innovation to accelerate even further into 2026. Chinese manufacturers are responding quickly to customer feedback, leading to more refined and efficient models being released in shorter cycles. We anticipate continued improvements in printhead technology, automation, and user-friendly control systems, as well as stronger integration with digital workflows. The ability to upgrade existing machines rather than replace them will become a defining advantage in the industry. My advice for 2026 is to stay open to flexibility and innovation. Instead of locking into long equipment cycles, businesses should consider investing in adaptable, upgradeable systems that can evolve with their needs. It’s also important to maintain close relationships with suppliers who can provide not just machines, but also training, updates, and technical support. Finally, keep an eye on sustainability; it’s becoming a key differentiator in customer decision-making and compliance. The print and signage industries are moving faster than ever before, and that’s exciting. At China Print Supplies UK, we believe the future lies in agility – being able to adapt quickly, customise solutions, and support customers through each stage of technological change. With the innovation coming out of China’s print sector, the opportunities for UK and European businesses to stay competitive have never been greater. Garrick Dartnell, Sign Trade Supplies. Changes in the last year include sign businesses focusing on efficiency, speed of service, and really focusing on their sales and customer service. We have noticed so many more companies open to the idea of outsourcing the workshop and production of work to reliable suppliers and doubling down on project management. With the current economic landscape, perhaps the option of having trade suppliers that have invested in high priced equipment and that can provide a competitive service means that sign-makers can continue to provide the best signage without the risk of tying up their cashflow in new machinery. We have noticed the companies that have focus on their customers, rather than trying to do everything under one roof, tend to start winning larger jobs and contracts, allowing them to grow without the pain of hiring new talent (another big issue in the industry). I think the trends of efficiency will continue into 2026 with AI tools advancing internal company processes, agentic quote requests, and ordering, while proofing and order acceptance will certainly be changing. I think the sign companies that are looking to push forward and set themselves apart will be focusing on how they can implement the most customer-centric services which will mean taking full advantage of the production power of trade suppliers My advice would be to always keep an eye on technology breakthroughs (not just in the signage industry, but in general) the world is changing how it finds information, how people place orders, and how people search. This will spill over into the B2B signage world. The best thing to do is keep an open mind and embrace the technology when it fits into your business model. ► Scott Clutton, managing director at China Print Supplies ▲ Garrick Dartnell, head of marketing at Sign Trade Supplies ◄ Sam Yarnall, sales and marketing director for Clarity Software www.signlink.co.uk
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