About the Business
Founded in 1993 by Nik Hardy, Hardy Signs began life in a garage in Burton upon Trent. Over three decades, the business has evolved into a dynamic and respected signage and visual communications company employing over 30 staff and operating from a state-of-the-art facility in Burton.
Hardy Signs designs, manufactures, and installs a wide range of products including building and vehicle signage, exhibition displays, health & safety signage, and signage to support lean manufacturing processes. They work across various sectors, with a strong customer base in food manufacturing, industrial settings, and public services.
The business prides itself on in-house production capabilities, giving them full control over quality, turnaround, and environmental efficiency. With investments in new technologies, electric vehicles, and solar-powered infrastructure, Hardy Signs is positioning itself as a modern, sustainable manufacturer with strong community roots and future-facing ambition.
Still very much a family-run business, there are members of two generations of the Hardy family currently employed there. Nik’s daughter, Marketing Manager, Blu Hardy joined the business two years ago and is actively engaged with the three Chamber networks, East Midlands Manufacturing Network, Generation Next and Enterprising Women. Blu also ensures that she and the wider Hardy Signs team make the most of their East Midlands Chamber membership.
Challenges Faced
Post-pandemic, the business experienced supply chain disruption, with significant delays and inconsistencies in receiving materials and outsourced components. The solution was to bring more of their processes in-house, establishing a fabrication department that allows them to build their own frames and structures, improving reliability, quality control, and sustainability.
Recruiting and retaining skilled labour can be a challenge for manufacturers. Hardy Signs is addressing this by working closely with Burton College to develop the Sign & Print Academy, creating a direct pipeline of future talent through apprenticeships and work placements.
With increased emphasis on sustainability, Hardy Signs has committed to meaningful actions such as gradually converting a percentage of their fleet to electric, installing solar panels and on-site energy storage, as well as investing in energy-efficient machinery.
Investing in automation has been key to improving efficiency. Their latest laser cutter has reduced repetitive manual tasks, improved staff wellbeing and helped free up staff time for higher-value work.
For Blu Hardy, this is her first full time management role in manufacturing, so building her understanding of the sector, as well as marketing the business has also been a challenge.
The solution and Impact
The East Midlands Manufacturing Network has helped the business since they joined in 2023. Nik Hardy MD, and Blu Hardy, Marketing Manager, have attended EMMN meetings and regularly engage with the network.
For Blu, the network has been vital in building her understanding of the manufacturing sector. The access to industry and expert led sessions through the network has been extremely helpful.
The network has become a trusted space for sharing ideas and best practice, reflecting on common challenges, learning from peers and finding collaborative solutions with other East Midlands manufacturers. Being part of this valued peer group has also allowed Hardy Signs to support other members of the network with their products and expertise.
Showcasing Success
and Building Connections through East Midlands Chamber
As an active East Midlands Chamber member, Hardy Signs has made the most of the opportunities available through the wider Chamber Support and Services. Members of the Hardy Signs team regularly attend a range of East Midlands Chamber events and workshops, which provide valuable learning and networking opportunities.
The management team also recognises the value of both entering and sponsoring business awards. Entering awards creates excitement for the whole team and their recognition as both finalists and winners of East Midlands Chamber and an array of other regional awards provides opportunities to celebrate both shared successes and individual team member recognition. In 2024 they were awarded the Education and Business Partnership Award at the Derbyshire Business Awards. Blu was also a finalist for the Enterprising Women ‘Social Commitment Award’ and this recognition is a reflection of Blu’s ongoing CSR work to make a positive change within the community.
Blu’s role as Generation Next’s Manufacturing Ambassador reflects her passion for the sector and her commitment to raising the profile of manufacturing with her peers, she also advocates for careers opportunities in manufacturing with schools and other young people through community groups. Blu has also introduced a colleague to Generation Next membership, as part of her training and development plan.
“As a manufacturer, we understand the challenges facing the industry, whether it’s supply chain issues, sustainability, or digital transformation. The East Midlands manufacturing network has been instrumental in connecting us with likeminded businesses and providing invaluable support. Through collaboration, we can drive innovation, strengthen our region’s industrial sector and create long term success for manufacturers across the UK.”
Blu Hardy
Marketing Manager