The Signmakers` Signmaker
Suppliers of Built-up letters and logos,
custom made fascias and illuminated signs

PRODUCTS

Hybrid SIGNS & LETTERS

We have launched a new range of illuminated signs and letters which are energy efficient and as a result tax free. The name of the product is the Hybrid range and it is the next generation of illuminated letters and signs.

What is it?
The product piggy backs off the government approved ECA scheme (Enhanced Capital Allowance). There have been some significant changes in the technology used for LEDs and in conjunction with this the government have introduced several schemes aimed at reducing Carbon emissions.

The ECA scheme rewards businesses by giving tax breaks to signs and letters that use energy efficient LEDs. We have been testing all the products which fall into this scheme over the last 6 months and have now incorporated these components into the Hybrid range of letters and signs.

The Hybrid range is no more expensive the the old generation of letters supplied and made for the sign industry, they offer the same or better quality of build and illumination but can be 100% written off against taxable profits. The choice between a new and old generation illuminated letter is a bit of a 'no brainer'.

How can I use it?
While the benefit of a reduction in tax is not applicable for our customers (sign companies), it enables them to pass the benefits onto their customers who are the end users of the products and enables them to gain a competitive edge.

The new Hybrid letters also enable our customers to sell on the basis of the product being energy efficient and environmentally friendly which is obviously a hot topic with a lot of companies having strong Corporate Social Responsibility policies.

Why is it important?
The impact this has on signage is to try to improve the efficiency of lighting through the use of higher efficiency LED modules when used to “to promote the activities of a business”. In order to qualify for the ECA scheme the LEDs must have a certain level of efficiency; this is measured in Lumens per watt.

Hybrid letters also helps large companies meet the requirements of the Carbon Reduction Scheme. The Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme (CRC) is a mandatory carbon emissions reporting and pricing scheme to cover all organisations using more than 6,000MWh per year of electricity (equivalent to an annual electricity bill of about £500,000).

All companies who meet the above criteria will be put into a league table and their Carbon usage measured. If no reduction is seen then there will be financial penalties in the form of having to purchase increased carbon output allowances.