As environmental requirements become the norm, and more materials solve different installation challenges, we speak to experts in signage materials who give their advice to businesses who work with different substrates day-to-day A SMORGASBORD OF SIGNAGE MATERIALS When it comes to the world of signage materials, many considerations and products may come to mind. In 2026 more and more solutions have become available, especially as branded environments and live events have continued to be popular thanks to their ability to offer both physical and digital marketing opportunities. With sustainability, durability, and longevity all considerations to make when choosing the right material, we look at some of the solutions out there and speak to professionals in the industry to give their thoughts on what sign-makers should be considering when looking for the latest signage options. A Bird’s-Eye View When it comes to viewpoints on the changes in signage materials, Steve Lister has been at the forefront of advising professionals and seeing the changes that have taken place over the past few years. A consultant for global brands, retailers, and supply chain partners, as well as the head of global sustainability at POPAI UK & Ireland, Lister helps signage and print professionals make better decisions for their businesses. “My role is to cut through the claims, assess what works in practice and help businesses reduce waste and increase their focus on sustainability without compromising cost, quality, or performance,” says Lister, who adds: “I also provide consultancy, materials workshops, sustainability training, marketing claims reviews, and independent project assessments.” When it comes to the most popular products, Lister says there is strong interest in fibre- and bio-based boards, PVCfree films, recycled content substrates, reusable textiles, lightweight fibreboard, and steel display systems. However, Lister emphasises that popularity does not automatically make the material the right choice and that installation is often 42 email: editor@signlink.co.uk Issue 267 - October | November 2026 SIGNAGE MATERIALS | DAVID OSGAR where a good design fails. “The strongest solutions are those designed around the required lifespan, installation conditions, reuse potential, and the recovery routes actually available when the job is finished.” In order to navigate the challenges presented by installation and customer requirements, Lister recommends starting with the application and not the material: “Consider the required lifespan, location, fire performance, print quality, durability, weight, cost, installation method, potential for reuse, and the genuine end-of-life route. “A recyclable material is of limited value if it is combined with incompatible components, contaminated during use, or sent somewhere without the infrastructure to recover it.” Lister says that sign-makers should ask for evidence behind recycledcontent as well as bio-based, carbon, and recyclability claims. “The right decision is usually a balance between functionality, commercial reality, and measurable environmental impact, rather than simply
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