Completed at the end of July, the deal saw RMC take on the MSS division’s stock, kit, customer book, and the rights to use and market the modular signage product under its brand name, ‘HB Modular Sign System’.
While RMC was already a major producer of modular signage in the UK, the acquisition has strengthened its position in the market considerably.
Workshop2 has stopped all marketing, sales, manufacturing and supply of modular signage, with the divestment allowing it to shift attention to its core business.
RMC was already closely involved with Workshop2, often performing spraying, screening or vinyling work for the modular signage for the firm.
“It really strengthens what we can offer,” said Nicole Spencer, RMC managing director.
She told Printweek: “It gives us more capacity and introduces us to new clients, who may then buy print as well, so it’s an opportunity to gain business. We will also get more equipment [through the deal], so that will help us produce more signage in a shorter space of time.”
The use of the ‘HB’ trade name will likewise prove useful for marketing, Spencer added, with some potential clients searching for the branded product.
The stock will be of even more immediate benefit. As Spencer explained, it can be hard to come by – with MSS’ links to new suppliers providing an extra layer of security for the company.
“We’re very excited to be getting stock. We’ve had orders that we couldn’t get out, because there wasn’t the stock: so having access to their stock and suppliers is very useful,” she said.
Modular signage is especially popular for schools, universities, and hospitals, with contracts frequently accordingly being large and consistent – and lucrative to win.
“It’s quite a lot of red tape to get to the point of order – we’ve had quotes that we gave this time last year that are still ongoing – so most signage companies haven’t got the time or skillset to do it. Specialist companies tend to get the bigger rollouts,” she said.
“They’ve passed over a couple of contracts to us that will be ongoing, so that’s definitely beneficial to see straight away.”
RMC turns over around £2.5m, employing 20.
