The signage industry, often overlooked despite being a cornerstone of visual marketing, proved fertile ground. With the rapid growth of small businesses and an increasing need for brand visibility, demand for customised signage — from large fabricated signs and vinyl to fabric and vehicle branding — surged. On the back of the Signarama brand, Van Dalen’s business capitalised on this demand, growing by more than 40% in just its first two years and continuing with strong double-digit growth thereafter.

More than just a personal achievement, his story reflects the growing strength of the signage sector, especially for entrepreneurs who embrace established systems, proven brand standards, and national supplier networks. Within this framework, Van Dalen’s operation not only delivered local service excellence but also competed at the highest level — earning regional and even international recognition in recent years for leadership and overall performance. Van Dalen was recognised as the top performing franchisee in Southern Africa in 2023, and attended the UFG Star Brands Expo in Nashville, Tennessee, as his prize.

“The signage industry is fast-paced and incredibly rewarding,” Van Dalen told Goldfields Business Monthly. “It challenges you to be creative, to stay ahead of technology, and most importantly, to build trust with your clients. That’s the foundation of Signarama’s success.”

His inclusion among the Goldfields’ top businesspeople is a testament not only to his individual grit but also to the strength of franchising and the enduring relevance of the signage industry — an essential service for any business wanting to be seen, remembered, and trusted.