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Celebrating 100 Years of Brownings: 1925 - 2025
- SignComp Europe
- Sep 10
- 2 min read
In July 2025, Hull-based Brownings proudly marked its 100th year in business. Here, we trace back to its storied past to see how it is now a leading trade-only signage specialist.
The Early Years
Founded in 1925 by Walter Willoughby Browning as Browning’s Dental Laboratory, the company initially crafted dentures. However, a decline in demand in the 1950s prompted a pivotal shift. Browning invented and patented Plastifol, a material that enabled the production of medical training aids and novelty practical-joke products, which were sold worldwide and remained in production until 2021. Alongside this, Brownings became the UK’s first official distributor of Perspex, crafting everything from machine guards to leaflet holders.
Evolving Ownership & Identity
The business was then acquired by Steve Crowley in 1993, who transformed it into a signage manufacturer after Walter Browning’s passing. In 2007, the company officially rebranded simply as Brownings, finding its niche as a trade-only signage specialist.
Brownings then became an official distributor and converter for flex face signage solutions through its partnership with SignComp Europe. Combining SignComp’s supply of Flex Face, LEDs and EASITEX with Brownings' expertise and commitment to quality, the relationship has only gone from strength to strength over the past 20 years.
Photo Credits: Next | BirdsEye | Paradise Island | AG
Today, the business is led by Mike Gentle, who joined as Managing Director in 2001, along with Production Director Dean Harrison, Sales Director Richard Vincent, and Sales & Marketing Manager Bradley Robinson.
In-house excellence, bespoke solutions
Brownings takes pride in crafting all its signage in-house, offering bespoke solutions and speedy turnaround for clients. Robinson states that “Anonymity is our speciality. We manufacture for some of the best-known high street retailers and hospitality venues, but most end-users will never know we exist.”
Summary
From crafting dentures to pioneering signage solutions, Brownings have consistently adapted to changing markets while holding firm to their core identity. As Richard Vincent put it, “We’re just the current custodians of a great business. Hopefully we’ll see Brownings through to the next 100 years.” Their hands-on, bespoke approach, paired with an unwavering commitment to quality and customer service, has shaped a legacy and set the stage for another 100 years of success.
Congratulations to Brownings!
We at SignComp Europe are proud partners of Brownings.
For more information on Brownings, visit: