The Colebrook Industrial Estate store reopened on 12 February under the new leadership of husband and wife team Nik and Kanika Mathur, with three existing employees making up the team offering graphic design, production, sales and other customer services.
With a 20-year background in hospitality, signage is a new venture for Nik Mathur, although he said he may have come full circle.
“When I was young in India my father had a printing press in Delhi and although I didn't have anything to do with it then, I would see him working on it, and maybe it's just in my blood,” he noted.
Mathur has spent the past year undertaking various training courses with Fastsigns and working in different franchisee sites to gain the knowledge and experience needed to run the business, which offers a range of services including graphic design, installations, project management and site surveying, across a wide range of sectors.
Since taking over, Mathur said the team have had a lot of interest, with plenty of jobs already completed and in progress currently.
“It’s been really great, we’ve already done a few signs, shop hoardings, and van graphics,” he said.
The business runs an Epson SureColor SC-S80600, a Mimaki plotter and a Kala laminator and Mathur said it would be looking to buy a laser cutter, an engraving machine and a CNC cutter later down the line.
“We’ve started with this and right now it's sufficient for our requirements,” he said.
He added: “We’re looking forward to getting hands-on support from the wider network and the knowledgeable franchise team, as we look to build solid foundations here in Tunbridge Wells and watch the business grow over the coming years.”
Fastsigns UK managing director John Davies commented: “Over the last year in particular, there has been a growing demand for more regional signage specialists, specifically in areas such as Tunbridge Wells, and so we’re thrilled to welcome both Nik and Kanika to the franchise network with the launch of this latest centre. No matter what the industry, the importance of signage is crucial in fostering effective communication and enhancing safety in various environments.
“Nik comes equipped with a sophisticated skillset having worked in the hospitality sector, under a successful franchise model, so I know they’re going to make a fantastic addition to our growing network around the UK. I’m already thrilled to hear that they have big ambitions for the centre, with plans to expand their offering in the near future. We’re looking forward to working closely with them on this journey.”
