Pictured above: (l-r) Allen Signs' first ever customer Mr Eric Brocklesby cutting a 45th birthday cake with Managing Director David Allen and his father Barry Allen who founded the company in 1965

Successful family firm Allen Signs celebrated 45 years in business recently with an anniversary lunch as its workshop on Whisby Way in North Hykeham, Lincoln. 

Guests, which included Allen Signs' first ever customer Mr Eric Brocklesby from Whittons Bakery and the Director of the British Sign and Graphics Association David Catanach, were treated to a buffet lunch and a behind-the-scenes tour of the workshop.

They also got the chance to watch a car being vinyl wrapped by Allen Signs specialist vehicle livery team and meet the company's founders Barry and Yvonne Allen. 

David Allen, who along with his wife Helen took over the business from his mother and father in 2008, said he is delighted to have reached such an important milestone.

"Since my father set up the business in 1965 we have endured three recessions and not only have we survived but we've continued to grow by ensuring we're at the forefront of the industry," said David.  

"Investing in our staff and new technology has always been a priority and we take pride in using the best possible materials available rather than the cheapest.

"In the eighties we were the first company in Lincolnshire to offer self-adhesive vinyl lettering and in 2000 our employee Paul Draper became the first apprentice in the UK to gain an NVQ Level 2 in Signmaking."

Commenting on the success of the birthday celebration David added: "It was great to see so many of our customers and suppliers and be able to thank them personally for all their support over the years. Without them we wouldn't be as successful as we are today.

"I didn't think people would get excited about signmaking but I was pleasantly surprised by the interest we received and I will definitely open the workshop to the public again in the future.

"People were particularly intrigued by the vehicle wrapping process which is a difficult skill to master but creates an impressive result. The vinyl film has to be heated and wrapped tightly around the vehicle with meticulous attention to detail to avoid any air bubbles or creases and is fascinating to watch."

David's father and founder of Allen Signs Barry Allen added: "The sign industry has come on leaps and bounds over the past 45 years but despite the advances in technology and materials the success of any business relies on good relationships.

"Some companies such as Danwoods and LMS (Lawnmower Service Lincoln Ltd) have been with us from the beginning and although I don't recognise many of the new faces it's great to see them all here today.

"It's nice to see the company I started forty five years ago continuing to do well and I wish David, Helen and the team every success for the future."