Association Update – January 2026

As we kick into the new year, we’re focused on developing the plans we set at our December strategy meeting, making sure the industry has strong opportunities to connect, learn, and grow. These goals were set ahead of time so we could dive straight into the year with momentum, and with a solid foundation already in place.

While the year is only just underway, planning is well advanced for our biggest event, the Sign & Print Expo. After a couple of challenging years, there is a strong sense across the industry that 2026 is the year things begin to bounce back and get busy again. Preparing well now is key to making the most of the year, and the Sign and Print Expo is designed to support that preparation. Expo brings the industry together, allowing you to get hands on with the latest technology, talk directly with experts, and find practical solutions that strengthen your business all in one place. Registration is open, so head to the NZSDA website to get your name on the list.

Following the expo is the 2026 Sign Display Awards of Excellence. Award entries are now open so it’s time to refresh yourself on the category requirements and start putting together your entries. We can’t wait to see what you’ve been working on over the last year. We are also accepting nominations for the notable awards, so if you think you’ve been noteworthy this year, make sure you throw your hat in the ring!

We’re currently confirming our webinar calendar for 2026, but first on the agenda will be a show and tell from our awards judging panel who will walk you through how they judge the awards and what they look out for, using real examples from previous years. This will be an invaluable session and well worth attending. Keep an eye out for more information.

We are really excited to announce a new addition to the Expo line up, the Young Signee of the Year Competition. This new competition celebrates the next generation of professionals by offering young, motivated sign makers, 30 and under, a chance to showcase their skills, knowledge and potential for future leadership through a series of timed challenges across the core pillars of signwriting. This will be a lively and exciting event and will take place in the middle of the Expo space, ensuring everyone can come and watch the action! If you’d like to take part in this event, please let us know.

We usually don’t produce and January e-newsletter, but there is just so much going on that I had to share. I can’t wait to see how this year unfolds!

Ngā mihi,

Mikayla Hopkins
NZSDA

“If you’re competitor-focused, you have to wait until there is a competitor doing something. Being customer-focused allows you to be more pioneering.” – Jeff Bezos