Recognition in the 2026 award reflects nearly two centuries of people-first values, industry expertise, and employee pride
William Smith Group 1832 is proud to announce that it has been named in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026, achieving recognition in the Medium Organisation category. This is a milestone that reflects the strength of its culture, people, and shared ambition for the future.
The prestigious national award, developed in partnership with employee engagement platform WorkL, is based entirely on independent employee feedback. Only organisations achieving the highest standards across areas including wellbeing, empowerment, reward and recognition, communication, and job satisfaction are recognised.
For William Smith, this achievement represents far more than an award. It is recognition of a business built on trust, long-standing relationships, and a genuine commitment to its people.
Founded almost 200 years ago, William Smith Group 1832 has grown into one of the UK’s leading suppliers to the signage and graphics industry, partnering with global brands including 3M, Arlon, Avery Dennison, Contra Vision, Cover Styl and LX Hausys, alongside its own VION range. Yet despite its growth, the company believes its greatest strength has always remained the same: its people.
“This recognition means a huge amount to us because it comes directly from our employees,” said Lindsay Hutchinson, Head of Marketing at William Smith Group 1832.
“We’ve worked incredibly hard to create an environment where people feel valued, supported and proud of the role they play within the business. To see that reflected back through honest employee feedback is something we’re genuinely proud of.
“Our people are at the heart of everything we do. The knowledge, care and relationships they build with our customers every day are what set William Smith apart, and this award is recognition of the culture we’ve built together.”
The award also highlights the importance of people within a specialist, relationship-driven industry where expertise and continuity matter. With many employees building long-term careers at William Smith, the business continues to invest heavily in development, wellbeing, collaboration, and creating opportunities for future growth.
As the company continues to evolve, this recognition reinforces its commitment to maintaining a culture where employees feel connected, empowered, and excited about the future.
“Being named one of Britain’s Best Places to Work is a proud moment for everyone across the business,” Lindsay added. “This achievement belongs to our entire team, and it gives us even more motivation to continue building a workplace where great people can thrive.”
The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026 list was published online on Friday, 22 May 2026, with the print supplement published on Sunday, 24 May 2026.
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