As 2025 wraps up, we’re taking a moment to celebrate another busy year working alongside NZSDA members. At Network HR, it’s been a privilege to support the people behind the signs, helping businesses strengthen their teams, simplify their systems, and keep moving forward.
The sunshine has finally broken through what feels like an endless stretch of rain. If your experience has been anything like mine in Taranaki, you’ll know the rhythm: machines idle, the workshop gets a few extra sweeps, and even the simplest install feels like it’s forever waiting for a break in the skies.
And just like that we have one month left to square things away before the holiday madness takes over. I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling the silly season started early this year and the pressure is already on to get as much done in the next month as possible to ensure a roaring start to 2026.
Jay Isgrove was awarded the 2025 Apprentice of the Year, after completing his apprenticeship at Big Brown Industries.
We caught up with Jay to chat about his motivations, challenges and goals for moving forward in his sign making career:
The 2026 Sign & Print Expo at Auckland Showgrounds will bring together the sign, print, and display community from across New Zealand. Whether you’re an exhibitor or a visitor, being prepared will help you get the most out of every moment on the floor.
Reaching fifty years in business and becoming accredited Master Sign Makers in the same year makes 2025 one to remember for Clarkson’s Signs, a multi-award-winning sign shop in Canterbury. Owners Nick and Maria Clarkson were delighted to see their store become the 25th accredited Master Sign Maker in New Zealand.
Not long ago, I had a phone call from someone I know well in the industry, and he was fired up. One of his long-time clients had jumped ship to another signwriter down the road. Same job, same specs, but cheaper. “They’re wrecking the industry,” he said. “Undercutting everyone. Selling signs for peanuts – What’s the NZSDA going to do about it?”
The Government is reviewing the Health & Safety at Work Act with an eye to cutting red tape while keeping people safe. Here’s a quick guide to what’s being proposed:
October is only just beginning and I’m already hearing reports from members around the country that the pre-Christmas rush has begun and the industry is getting busier by the day. It is great to see business pick up, as I know it has been a hard year for many.
