The qualification, which was awarded to the business last week, encompasses a set of best practices for achieving grey balance and visual similarity across all print processes.

Taking six weeks to complete, the award is valid for 12 months, after which time the centre would need to repeat the process to retain the qualification.

Simon Slee, owner of Fastsigns Hammersmith, said: “We have a G7 expert within the Fastsigns network who came over from the US and spent time with us. He had to go through and make sure we were following all the processes and that the proofing systems and calibrating were all set up correctly.

“Apart from ensuring that you follow great work practices, these requirements are important for our industry. I also feel it’s another way that we can differentiate ourselves from other businesses.”

He added the accreditation will enable the business to reap a range of further benefits, including the ability to work on larger tender projects for bigger clients.

Earlier this year the branch relocated from a 140sqm unit to a 280sqm purpose-built facility in Acton. Slee said the store has seen a turnover increase of 90% since making the move after securing some major new accounts.

10-staff Fastsigns Hammersmith has a turnover of around £800,000 and operates kit including a Canon Océ Arizona 318 GL and a Zünd cutter.

Fastsigns UK managing director John Davies said: “Gaining this qualification is a testament to Simon and his wife and fellow owner Friederike's hard work and dedication to providing the very best service to their customers.

“Although the first of our Fastsigns franchisees to be qualified, we look forward to even more centres following suit in the coming months.”