What Is Large Format Printing? A Guide for Businesses in the UK

Business marketing and communications has never been more competitive, and standing out is harder than ever. Nowadays, printed materials are rapidly becoming one of the best ways to cut through the noise, especially if you’re reaching out locally.

Whether you run a small local business which needs to make a big first impression, or an established firm wanting to reinforce your brand visibility, large format printing can help. It’s brilliant for making the kind of impact that other sizes of print can’t match.

But what exactly is large format printing, and how can it help UK businesses thrive?

What Is Large Format Printing?

Large format printing (otherwise known as wide format printing) is the process of printing graphics or text on materials that are too large for standard commercial printing presses. It typically refers to anything wider than A3, with common sizes ranging from A2 to billboard-scale dimensions.

At Active Print Services, we use advanced large format printers to produce high-resolution graphics on materials such as vinyl, canvas, paper and even fabric. Such prints are ideal for use both indoors or outdoors and offer an eye-catching way to communicate a message, advertise a product or elevate a brand

What Can You Print With a Large Format?

Large format printing is incredibly versatile. Here are just a few examples of what businesses in the UK are doing it:

• Posters & banners which are perfect for retail promotions, public events, or office displays.
• Exhibition displays. If you want to stand out at trade shows and expos, high-quality backdrops and roller banners make a big difference.
• Signage. From shop fronts to safety signs, large format printing ensures your message is seen and remembered.
• Vehicle graphics. Want to catch attention on-the-go? Custom vehicle wraps and decals turn your car, van or lorry into a moving advertisement.
• Window graphics. We help you make use of every inch of your space with promotional or decorative window films.
• Point-of-sale (POS) displays. Promote offers directly at the purchase point to boost impulse buying.

Why Should Your Business Use Large Format Printing?

1. Enjoy Maximum Visibility

If you're competing for attention on Guildford high street or exhibiting at a tradeshow in Farnborough, you want to be seen. Large format prints help you do precisely that: they’re designed to catch the eye from a distance and make a lasting impression.

2. Customisation at Scale

Whether you need one large banner or a full suite of signs across multiple sites, the process is highly customisable. At Active Print Services, we tailor each job to your specifications, ensuring colours are accurate, your brand is consistent and the materials are effective.

3. Professionalism and Quality

High quality printed products signal that you’re a reputable company. Crisp graphics, vibrant colours and sharp text all show that your business pays attention to detail. We use the latest cutting-edge printing technology to ensure our clients, from Camberley to Farnham, receive the highest standard products.

4. Durability

Many large format products are designed for use outdoors or busy places, like retail stores or local events. Weatherproof materials and fade-resistant inks mean your prints will stay vibrant and intact for longer, even with heavy use.

The short answer? They’re ideal for all kinds of companies, including:

• Local councils and public sector bodies
• Retailers and shopping centres with seasonal displays and sale graphics
• Construction companies
• Corporate offices that need branded decor and event materials
• Educational institutions with open day banners and directional signs

Our clients include small businesses just launching in Frimley and blue-chip companies expanding their reach across the South East.

Why Choose Us?

Active Print Services isn’t just another printing company. We’ve earned a reputation for excellence through our long-standing customer relationships and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Ideal for those seeking a local print service, we work with clients across Frimley, Camberley, Farnborough, Woking, Guildford, Farnham, and nearby areas — with free deliveries to any company within a 10-mile radius.

Highly experienced, we’ve worked with a wide range of organisations, from local authorities to multinational brands. No matter your market sector, we understand the unique needs of every industry.

Our efficient processes and investments in quality technology mean we can offer premium results at competitive prices.

Whether you're preparing for a trade show, dressing up your storefront, or rolling out a campaign across multiple sites, APS makes the process seamless.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re a business in Surrey, Hampshire, or Berkshire looking to make a bold statement with large format print, APS is here to help. From consultation to design to delivery, we make it easy to get high-quality, high-impact print exactly when and where you need it.

Get in touch today to speak with our expert team. We’re here to bring your big ideas to life, with big prints to match.