The Fight To Preserve Britain’s Neon Sign Craftsmanship

Lately, one unique form of craftsmanship has come under fire: the craft of neon signage. A key player in the UK’s cultural history, neon signage has lit up urban landscapes across the world for over a century, from the iconic glow of Piccadilly Circus to the brilliant signs of Times Square. Yet, as technology advances, authentic neon signs—crafted with glass tubes and filled with inert gases like neon or argon—are being overshadowed by cheap, mass-produced, LED alternatives, often misleadingly marketed as "neon." This threat to both the artistry and its historical value has led to a movement advocating for stronger protections and recognition for neon sign-making, a plea that has grown louder in UK Parliament.

indoor neon signs’s Historical Significance in the UK

Neon was first discovered in the United Kingdom in 1898 by two British scientists, Sir William Ramsay and Morris Travers, who discovered its glowing properties when they passed electricity through the gas. This breakthrough paved the way for the creation of neon signs, which would soon become iconic in vibrant cityscapes, nightlife, and public advertising. From the streets of London to the bright signs in New York, neon signs became emblematic of progress and exciting new eras.

Yet, this iconic craft is now at risk of being lost, with only 27 full-time neon glass benders remaining in the UK. This dramatic decline in handcrafted skill threatens the very existence of the craft itself but also the authenticity and identity of neon signage as a form of creative expression and cultural identity.

The Authenticity of Neon vs. LED Imitations

The most urgent issue facing neon sign-makers today is the market confusion created by LED imitations. While these LED signs may look similar to neon in their glowing appearance, they lack the artistry and craft that defines genuine neon. Authentic neon signs are hand-crafted from hand-blown glass tubes, individually shaped, and injected with neon or argon, creating a method that takes years to perfect. By contrast, LED signs are easily made, inexpensive, and often marketed misleadingly, causing misinformation about what constitutes genuine neon.

This confusion has had major consequences for small businesses like Neon Creations, a boutique artisan neon sign maker in Bolton, UK. Founded by Tony and Catherine Spink, the company has seen a sharp drop in demand as customers inadvertently purchase LED "neon" signs from big box stores. When these customers realize the difference, they often contact small businesses for corrections—on products that aren’t even neon, to begin with.

The Cultural and Economic Value of Neon Signage

Neon signs are far more than simple advertisements; they are a crucial aspect of our cultural landscape. They remind us of classic diners, movie theatres, music venues, and entertainment districts. From the lights of Soho to the marquees of the West End, neon has long been a symbol of expression and individuality.

The value of neon sign-making, though small, is significant. It helps small businesses, creates employment, and encourages innovation. In fact, the UK’s creative industries contribute £124 billion annually to the economy, with neon signage playing a niche but essential role in that ecosystem.

Proposed Protections: Ensuring Neon’s Future

In response to these challenges, the campaign to protect neon sign-making is calling for greater consumer transparency and stronger safeguards for authentic neon signs. Key figures in the creative industries, including the British Sign and Graphics Association (BSGA) and the Heritage Crafts Association, have united to advocate for better regulations. These proposals include the creation of a legal certification or a formal British standard for neon signs, ensuring that only real neon signs are marketed as such.

Additionally, a Neon Signs Protection Act is being proposed, which would create a legal definition for the term "neon" and prevent false advertising. Just as Harris Tweed is protected by law to ensure its authenticity, neon signs deserve similar protections to preserve their cultural and artistic value.

The Future of British Neon Signage

As the UK continues to grapple with the challenges posed by mass-produced alternatives, it is crucial that we preserve the heritage of neon signage. The neon art form is a cultural treasure, and it is worth protecting for the future. Small businesses like Neon Creations are dedicated to preserving this craft, but they need our support.

To ensure neon’s future, we must act quickly. This campaign is about more than just protecting products; it’s about honoring craftsmanship, protecting creativity, and ensuring that Britain’s neon heritage continues to shine for future generations.