Signs Express has announced the sale of its Northwest Kent & Southeast London centre to new franchisee Sam Arundell, marking the latest chapter for one of the network’s longest-established businesses.

The previously company-owned centre, based at the Parker Knight Industrial Centre in Dartford, completed its transfer of ownership to Sam on 30 September.

Originally opened in 1992, Signs Express NW Kent & SE London has built a strong reputation across the region, providing signage and graphics solutions to businesses throughout Dartford, Bexley, Sidcup, Crayford, Welling, Greenwich and Southeast London.

The experienced team delivers a wide range of signage, including exterior and shopfront signs, vehicle graphics, van wraps, liveries, wide-format digital print and much more.

Sam brings an entrepreneurial background, strong local connections and a keen interest in the signage and print sector. Originally from an engineering background, he has already begun immersing himself in the industry and recently joined members of the Signs Express team and Papergraphics on a visit to HP in Barcelona to explore new technology and future investment opportunities.

He will work alongside longstanding team members Miles and Greg, with a focus on building on the centre’s established customer base and supporting its next phase of growth.

Jonathan Bean, Managing Director of Signs Express Limited, said:

“We’re thrilled to welcome Sam to the Signs Express network. His enthusiasm, entrepreneurial mindset and genuine interest in the signage industry have been clear from the outset, and we’re excited to see the energy and ambition he will bring to Signs Express NW Kent & SE London.

The centre has a fantastic heritage and an experienced team in place, and we look forward to supporting Sam as he builds on those foundations and takes the business into its next chapter.”

Sam Arundell, Franchisee of Signs Express NW Kent & SE London, added:

“I am really looking forward to the next chapter for Signs Express (NW Kent & SE London). The more time I’ve spent around Signs Express, the more I’ve come to really like what the business is about. There’s a warmth to it, a real pride in what we produce and, ultimately, it’s about helping other businesses look their best.

For our customers, it’s very much business as usual. We’ll continue to offer the personal service people know us for, while bringing in new ideas, investing in what we do and expanding what we can offer. We’ve got some exciting plans for the future, and we’re looking forward to taking our customers with us.”

The acquisition forms part of Signs Express’ continued franchise development strategy, which includes opportunities for both new franchisees and experienced business owners looking to join the network.