VEHICLE WRAPPING | ROB FLETCHER 49 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 265 - June | July 2026 during installation is also essential, as extreme conditions affect tack and stretch behaviour. To prevent these challenges before happening, installation training is critical, such as the 3M Endorsed Installer training on offer.” For those that do make the move, Webley says there are certain demands and trends to keep in mind to help them win the most profitable work. In the B2B market, she says 3M sees companies increasingly using vehicle graphics as a costeffective, highimpact advertising method that avoids the permanence of a paint job. She adds improvements in wrap film technology have increased confidence in both short term and longterm applications. “Advances in wrap film material technology have transformed what installers can achieve,” she explains, adding: “Modern films offer improved outdoor durability, enhanced UV resistance, and better protection against fading and cracking, resulting in longer service life. “The range of finish options has expanded dramatically, giving installers access to gloss, matte, satin, metallic, brushed, and colourshift effects that previously required custom paint. Application has also become more efficient thanks to advanced adhesive systems such as airrelease offered by 3M Comply and repositionable technology as shown by 3M Controltac, reducing installation time and enabling cleaner, more reliable removals.” Looking to B2C, she says that personal customisation remains a key demand driver, but increasingly protection – such as that offered by the 3M Paint Protection Film range – is becoming an important factor. “The market is seeing new and innovative products being launched; one example is 3M Protection Wrap Film that combines protection and colour change in one film. Application choice has also become more flexible, as seen with the 3M Protection Wrap Film, which can be applied both wet or dry.” As for future demand, Webley says several areas present strong growth potential for the wrapping market. She says fleet modernisation will continue as companies update branding and pursue flexible, scalable identity solutions across large vehicle groups. Webley also says personal customisation remains a major opportunity, particularly with the demand for premium textures, specialty effects, and unique colour change finishes. Hybrid wraps that combine aesthetic films with protective layers are also gaining traction as customers look for a blend of appearance and surface protection. In addition, she notes how the rise of electric vehicles offers another emerging segment, as EV fleets and private owners seek branding and protective solutions amid limited OEM colour options. Technical Expertise Elsewhere, Paola Cerchiai, head of go-tomarket and trade marketing graphics at Fedrigoni, says one of the main growth drivers is the increasing need for costeffective, high-impact advertising. “Currently, the strongest demand can be seen across commercial fleets, last-mile delivery services, such as food delivery, and small- to medium-sized enterprises that want to promote their brand locally, which are rapidly expanding and require scalable branding solutions,” she says. “Fleet graphics in particular offer a way to transform vehicles into mobile billboards, delivering continuous visibility at a relatively low cost. At the same time, there is strong demand from the personalisation segment, where end users are looking for unique finishes, colour changes, and customisation options.” Cerchiai goes on to say that advances in wrapping films and materials have significantly expanded what is possible for installers. She explains that modern cast films offer excellent conformability, making applications on complex curves and recessed areas easier to handle. “Improvements in adhesive technologies such as our slide and tack technology have made installation faster and more forgiving, reducing bubbles and rework,” Cerchiai says, adding: “In terms of durability, today’s films provide longer lifespans, improved UV resistance, and greater dimensional stability. At the same time, the variety of Advances in wrap film material technology has transformed what installers can achieve ▲Digital Sign Solutions says LED installation is about how well it fits its environment, as well as brightness and resolution ▲3M says its 3M Paint Protection Film range is addressing a rising demand for protection-style wraps According to Popin Graphics, a UK commercial vehicle will cover approximately 20,000 miles per year, meaning up to 12 million impressions each year Factoid
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