About Us

Established in 1983 The Design Shop's roots stem from a model making background, enabling the founder David James (retired 1999) to supply display solutions to his clients utilising a high level of creativity. 

The same ethos still holds true, and as the models developed by needing plinths to stand them on and graphics to tell people about them, so the evolution into small exhibition stands was made.

After years of cut and paste at the drawing board, a major step forward was made with the advent of 'desktop publishing'. The opportunities to offer the client a much wider, much quicker solution were appearing and The Design Shop was quick to see the potential. Being one of the first businesses in the country to purchase a large format digital printer firmly established the credentials of the company. This direction pushed the graphics side of the business hard but it was always complimented by the unique ability to design and construct in the ever growing workshop.

1996 saw The Design Shop relocate to new, larger premises and the clear definition as one of the best equipped exhibition and display companies in the country was set. With a broad selection of clients, many of whom have stayed loyal since the 'early days' the aim to offer all services under one roof was a powerful advertising message. The graphics studio grew to a bank of 5 printers with full finishing facilities, the workshop was creating and installing complex exhibition stands throughout the UK and Europe. It was an attractive prospect for the owner, Mr Pete Bowen who finally purchased The Design Shop in July 1999. With well established sales offices in London, Newbury and Bristol it was a natural progression to add the production facilities of The Design Shop. The mutually beneficial set up has continued to grow with a wealth of experience across the companies that few can match.

Since the acquisition the companies have been working on merging the two companies and moving all staff to one location. Over the last twelve months Swindon has become the head office with all staff being transferred to our premises in Westlea Swindon. In April 2005 the 11,000 square feet of warehouse and show room opened. The warehouse facility is used for client's storage and holds £500,000 of rental equipment. This includes every thing from simple display panels for art exhibitions, shell schemes, larger exhibition stands, display cases and furniture.