About Us

An industry innovator

William Smith Group 1832 has been a pioneer in the sign and graphics industry since the 1960’s, renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation and customer satisfaction.

Established in 1832, our family-owned company began with a single mission: to deliver reliable products that meet the unique needs of each customer. Today, that mission remains at the heart of everything we do, guiding us as a leading supplier of high-quality self-adhesive vinyl products, wrap training and much more.

Based in Barnard Castle, in the North East of England, a number of divisions form William Smith Group 1832, although we have one core business activity in material distribution.

Our primary brand, William Smith is one of the UK’s largest suppliers of materials to the sign and graphics industry. We partner with respected brands such as 3M, Arlon, Avery Dennison, Contra Vision, Cover Styl and LX Hauseys, as well as innovate solutions through our own range, VION. We also supply chevron kits and produce traffic signage for our trade customers.

Mission and Vision

Empowering our customers

Our mission is to empower customers with products and services that drive their success. We believe in being proactive, forward-thinking and always customer-focused, delivering solutions that make things happen. Our commitment to high standards is matched by a people-first approach, treating everyone whether its customers or team members, like family.

Your partners in success

We take pride in encouraging hands-on learning with in-person training courses, through the William Smith Group 1832 Academy and an Online Academy that empowers professionals to enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest techniques. At William Smith Group 1832, we’re not just a supplier, we’re a partner in your success, dedicated to supporting your journey with products and expertise that stand the test of time.

Looking into the future

We're excited about what’s ahead. As we expand our business and digital capabilities, we remain focused on delivering products and services that make a difference. Our commitment to innovation, training, and the growth of our installer network continues to guide us, ensuring we stay at the forefront of industry advancements. We look forward to serving our customers with the same dedication that has defined our past, and with a renewed vision for the future.

Architextural

Our dedicated interiors division

Marketing the benefits of using vinyl to refurbish buildings and spaces to interior designers, building specifiers and architects. This design-led brand also supports the business development aims of sign and graphics businesses that wouldn’t usually operate in the interior refurbishment sector.

Architextural drives sales of vinyl to William Smith. Throughout all our brands, we pride ourselves on delivering high quality products to trade customers across the UK.

Trusted by the Trade

Discover why our customers choose William Smith

Learn from our customer testimonials, gathered at our Open Day, why businesses choose to shop with us - we support our customers at every step of their journey, helping them grow, and are always just a phone call away, with no question too big or too small.