Burton sign manufacturer secures grant funding to invest in cutting-edge printer
Hardy Signs, a leading UK signage manufacturer based in Burton upon Trent, has announced its successful application for grant funding through Staffordshire County Council’s Business Energy Advice Service (BEAS) programme.
For more information about the program please visit Business Energy Advice Service Registration.
The funding has supported the company’s investment in a new state-of-the-art Canon Arizona 2630 XTF UV Flatbed Printer, strengthening Hardy Signs’ production capabilities and commitment to energy efficiency, innovation, and sustainable growth.
Earlier this year, Staffordshire County Council secured an additional £1 million boost to help local businesses cut energy costs and improve efficiency.
Small and medium-sized enterprises across the county can access free energy audits worth over £1000 and match-funded grants of up to £100,000, which can help businesses to cut costs by implementing technologies which can reduce energy costs.
Martin Murray, deputy leader and cabinet member for Economy and Skills at Staffordshire County Council, said: “This extra £1 million is great news for our business community and demonstrates the scheme’s success here.
“Demand for BEAS has been strong, proving that Staffordshire companies are eager to take control of their energy use and save money.
“By securing this additional funding, we can help even more businesses access expert advice, make improvements, and future-proof their operations against rising energy costs.
“It means they can focus more resource on boosting productivity. Staffordshire’s small and medium sized businesses are the beating heart of our county's economy and essential to drive economic growth.”
Hardy Signs identified the opportunity as part of its ongoing strategy to modernise its production facility and reduce operational costs.
Nik Hardy, managing director of Hardy Signs said: “When we heard about the BEAS funding through Staffordshire County Council, we immediately recognised how it could accelerate our plans to upgrade our print technology.
“We’re always looking for ways to make our operations more efficient and environmentally responsible, and this programme was a perfect fit.”
The grant has been invested in a Canon Arizona 2630 XTF UV Flatbed Printer, one of the most advanced and versatile large-format printers on the market.
This printer offers exceptional print quality, faster production speeds, and the ability to print directly onto a wide range of substrates, including acrylic, wood, glass, and metal.
It allows Hardy Signs to deliver even more creative solutions for its clients while maintaining the highest standards of precision and durability.
In addition to productivity and quality gains, the new printer also contributes to the company’s sustainability goals.
The Arizona 2630 XTF features low-energy LED curing technology, reducing energy consumption compared to traditional systems, and uses UV inks that minimise waste. All aligning perfectly with the energy-saving focus of the BEAS programme.
Nik Hardy added: “This investment has already started transforming how we work.
“We can now take on a wider variety of projects in-house, reduce turnaround times, and operate more efficiently. The printer not only enhances our creative capabilities but also supports our goal of reducing our environmental footprint.”
Click here for more information on Hardy Signs.
Pictured from left to right: Nik and Tom Hardy
