Astra Group is a leading full-service provider of traditional and digital signage solutions and Sign Design Society member. The Manchester-based company is to be congratulated for its recent recognition at the UK Graphic Awards, with Silver in the Hospitality and Leisure category, for its work with the UK’s largest indoor entertainment arena, Co-op Live. These national awards recognise the talent and creativity that goes into producing the most exceptional projects in the country, and the impact of these on the broader commercial and social community.
The Silver Award winning contract, awarded in 2022 and spanning over two years, saw Astra Group tasked with designing, manufacturing and installing all exterior, infinity mirror, neon graphic, and large format LED Displays at the arena, contributing to the overall aesthetic and functional excellence of the landmark venue.
The graphic signage brief, one of four components within Astra Group’s contract, saw the Manchester headquartered business required to consider a number of complexities. These included the varying substrates of the building including brick, block and concrete, which necessitated a versatile and adaptive material to be used, and the evolving nature of the venue, which required all graphics to be easily and cleanly removed. In keeping with Co-op Live’s vision to be the most sustainable arena in Europe, the graphics were designed and produced using the latest innovative and environmentally friendly materials. Astra Group expertly navigated all, harnessing the latest innovative materials and the business’s industry-leading technical expertise to create a visually impactful and functional environment fitting with one of Europe’s most prominent indoor arenas.
Speaking on the business’s success, Astra Group CEO Jim Kerr said: “This was a unique and complex brief brilliantly executed by the team, who drew on their collective extensive graphic design, production and installation expertise to deliver a suite of products that fulfilled Co-op Live’s requirements to the highest of possible standards … It’s a win not just for Astra Group but for Co-op Live to whom we’d like to extend our heartfelt thanks for entrusting us with this world-class signage project.”
Holly Watson Head of Marketing at Co-op Live added: “What a fantastic win for everyone involved! The innovative signage solutions from Astra Group went above and beyond, blending high quality design, craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology. The final result is absolutely stunning and built to last. We’re so happy to collaborate and see the incredible work of the team recognised!”