A Brief History of Zell-Em Branding
Since 1946, Zell-Em has grown, adapted and evolved to stay ahead, always with a focus on helping our clients make a lasting impression. This is the story of how our brand has developed - and why it still matters today.
Great branding stands the test of time - and changes with it.
1890
Granthams Sign Writers Opens Its Doors
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.
1946
Wren Grove, Blackpool
Where it all began. Zell-Em opens its first premises on Wren Grove, laying the foundations for over 75 years of branding expertise.
1954
The Old Factory
A rare glimpse inside the original Wren Grove manufacturing site – the starting point for decades of production.
1955
The Old Art Room
Skilled craftsmen at work in the original art room at Wren Grove, capturing the hand‑crafted quality of early branding.
1962
Zell‑Em Advert
A classic printed advert shows off the early products designed and sold by Zell‑Em during the post‑war era.
1963
Watson Road, Blackpool
Expansion to a new facility on Watson Road reflects Zell‑Em’s growing demand and workforce.
1964
Mr Zell’s Office
The newly relocated HQ includes Mr Zell’s highly personalised office – an early example of brand character.
1967
Manufacturing at Watson Road
Operations expand further, with significantly improved working conditions and enhanced production lines.
1971
Watson Road Developments
Ongoing growth sees further investment into the Watson Road site, strengthening Zell‑Em’s position as a UK branding leader.
1973
New Art Room
A brighter, more modern art department opens at Watson Road – reflecting advancements in design and pre‑press work.
1974
Office Life at Watson Road
An insight into payroll and administration in the 1970s – showcasing the people behind the product.
1981
Reps and Company Cars
Zell‑Em sales representatives pictured proudly with their new X Reg cars – a sign of expanding nationwide reach.
1983
Bestplate Cars
Further investment in the team as Bestplate’s rep vehicles feature prominently across the region.
1988
MacPrintUK is Founded
Established to offer custom‑printed and embroidered garments, MacPrintUK serves schools, clubs and businesses – adding textile branding to the group’s growing services.
1990
Beaver International Enters the Market
Beaver International launches as a branded workwear supplier, offering uniforms, PPE and corporate clothing to national and regional clients.
1998
Blackpool Tower Project
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.
2005
Granthams Becomes Limited
Granthams Signs Ltd is formally incorporated, continuing to deliver leading signage and display solutions across the North West and beyond.
2016
Zell‑Em Relocates to St Annes
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.
2025
Zell‑Em Branding is Born
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.