Five Valleys Signage Transformation

The brief came in clearly and confidently. The centre needed signage that would:

• Make a big visual impact - day or night.
• Reflect the centre’s personality: vibrant, modern, and unmistakable.
• Be installed safely, with zero disruption to nearby businesses, transport or shoppers.

This was about helping the centre stand out, not just fit in.

Live retail environments always require some clever thinking, and this project was no different. It came with a few key challenges that shaped our approach from the very beginning:

• Road closures weren’t an option: With three active bus stops and a main road running outside, traffic needed to keep flowing as normal. That ruled out the most straightforward installation methods.
• Footfall was high and constant: Shops, restaurants, and a cinema were all trading as usual. We couldn’t disrupt the customer experience, so we needed to plan around it.
• The building’s exterior wasn’t straightforward: It’s curved, which makes it eye-catching but technically more demanding. Our signage needed to follow those contours seamlessly.
• Some installation points were 12-18 metres up: That meant working safely at height, using MEWPs and a highly experienced install team.

Still, we were up for it. And with the right prep, we knew we could deliver something special.

This was a fully bespoke project, so we built our process around the client’s needs -every step of the way.

We started with detailed site surveys, mapping out everything from foot traffic to access points. That gave us the insight we needed to plan the safest, smoothest install without interrupting the day-to-day life of the centre.

And to minimise disruption? We carried out the installation overnight. Working in the early hours meant we avoided the crowds and kept local businesses trading as usual.

Everything was managed and delivered by the Signs Express Gloucester team, from design through to final installation.

Installation took place after hours using specialist MEWP access equipment. Our team worked efficiently, safely, and on schedule, avoiding disruption to public areas or transport links.

We knew we only had one shot to get it right. Thanks to the detailed prep and hands-on teamwork, it went exactly to plan.

• 3D built-up letters with integrated LED lighting
• CNC-cut panels printed direct-to-substrate
• Custom fixings for curved cladding
• MEWP access equipment for high-level work

The new signage now makes a bold, confident statement, just like the centre itself. It draws the eye, day and night. It complements the architecture while helping define the centre’s identity for visitors and locals alike.

And most importantly? It was delivered without disrupting a single day of trade.