Founded in Blackpool by William Grantham, Granthams began as a traditional signwriting business. Recognising the booming growth of Blackpool at the turn of the century, Grantham’s quickly became the leading provider of signage in the area.

Where it all began. Zell-Em opens its first premises on Wren Grove, laying the foundations for over 75 years of branding expertise.

A rare glimpse inside the original Wren Grove manufacturing site – the starting point for decades of production.

Skilled craftsmen at work in the original art room at Wren Grove, capturing the hand‑crafted quality of early branding.

A classic printed advert shows off the early products designed and sold by Zell‑Em during the post‑war era.

Expansion to a new facility on Watson Road reflects Zell‑Em’s growing demand and workforce.

The newly relocated HQ includes Mr Zell’s highly personalised office – an early example of brand character.

Operations expand further, with significantly improved working conditions and enhanced production lines.

Ongoing growth sees further investment into the Watson Road site, strengthening Zell‑Em’s position as a UK branding leader.

A brighter, more modern art department opens at Watson Road – reflecting advancements in design and pre‑press work.

An insight into payroll and administration in the 1970s – showcasing the people behind the product.

Beaver International launches as a branded workwear supplier, offering uniforms, PPE and corporate clothing to national and regional clients.

Zell‑Em sales representatives pictured proudly with their new X Reg cars – a sign of expanding nationwide reach.

Established to offer custom‑printed and embroidered garments, MacPrintUK serves schools, clubs and businesses – adding textile branding to the group’s growing services.

Granthams installs the world’s largest recorded sign on Blackpool Tower – a 258 ft illuminated structure featuring 25,000 flashing lights. The project earns a British Sign Association Award for Excellence and cements Granthams’ reputation in large‑format signage.

Granthams Signs Ltd is formally incorporated, continuing to deliver leading signage and display solutions across the North West and beyond.

Zell‑Em opens a new factory on Snowdon Road, Lytham St Annes – a state‑of‑the‑art facility that brings together design, production and logistics under one roof.

Granthams Signs, MacPrintUK, Beaver International and Zell‑Em Ltd come together as Zell‑Em Branding – offering end‑to‑end branded solutions from signage and print to garment decoration and workwear.