Ryan’s success is seen far and wide

WE live in a digital age where information is blasted at you from all sides.

However, arguably, getting the message across in a more traditional manner is still one of the most effective methods — and this is the business in which Ryan Lawson is flourishing.

His business is Abertay Signs and Designs and, while he operates from a small unit in North Isla Street, you’ll have seen Abertay across the city and beyond.

“The business was started by a pal many years and I took over about 12 years ago,” said Ryan.

“The training was pretty much on-thejob but sign-making has changed so much over the years you have to develop new skills”.

There is scope for your own business in the field as the market clearly exists and it’s broad. Abertay specialise in vehicle liveries. However, they also do the sort of vinyl signs you’ll see on railings, permanent signs outside a hotel, for example, and even the stylish wooden signs you’d find inside a smart hotel.

Ryan, 44, previously worked in an industry which couldn’t have been more old school. He’s a sail-maker to trade but the ‘sails’ were more often tents and marquees before he went into signs.

“You have to be creative and flexible,” added Ryan, who lives near Birkhill.

“Sometimes you’ll have a client who needs a sign for their business or a livery for their vehicles but they don’t have a clear idea about what they want.

“So you have to work with them, find out what they’re trying to achieve and then create something they like.

“Standards have to be high because you’re going to get a lot work from wordof-mouth recommendations. And, by the same token, if you do third-rate work people will spread the word too.

“And, as for flexibility, if a guy needs his van five days a week but wants it decorated, you’ll find yourself doing the job in the evenings and also at the weekend.

“I always go to meet clients to discuss their needs. It’s the personal touch. I collect their vehicles and drop them back. People appreciate that.

“I always try to source materials from local firms, like Stockline in Dundee, for example.

“I like the job, I like the people I get to deal with and that whole creative process.

“Some folk work all week and there’s nothing to actually see at the end. I see my work driving all around Dundee.”