Tradeprint has launched a UK-first Banner Return Pilot Scheme aimed at reducing the environmental impact of PVC and PVC-free display banners. The scheme is supported by Antalis, Fespa UK, Reconomy and the Independent Print Industries Association (IPIA).
The scheme enables Tradeprint customers to return used banners for recycling rather than sending them to landfill or incineration. Collected materials will be processed and repurposed into durable infrastructure products such as traffic cones and road barriers, offering an alternative end-of-life route for commonly used display media.
Developed around circular economy principles, the pilot is designed to test a scalable return model for wide-format print materials. A key element of the initiative is the use of Antalis’ UK depot network as regional drop-off points, addressing one of the practical challenges associated with collecting and transporting used banners.
“In a circular world, waste isn’t the end; it’s the beginning,” said Anthony Rowell, sales and customer success director and sustainability lead at Tradeprint. “Recycling isn’t just about recovery, it’s about respect for resources, for the planet, and for future generations. We are all really excited about this trial and so grateful for the support from the team at Antalis, Reconomy, Fespa UK, and the IPIA. I genuinely hope this inspires others to develop similar schemes.”
According to Tradeprint, the pilot aims to reduce the environmental impact of banner materials produced by the company, encourage more sustainable disposal behaviour among customers, and generate data on CO₂(e) savings. The business also sees the initiative as a way to build long-term customer engagement through clearer ESG alignment.
The project has been developed in collaboration with Katie Farr, marketing and communications manager at Antalis. Both Ms Farr and Mr Rowell are council members of the IPIA, which has played a role in supporting collaboration across the print supply chain. Early input has also come from Jon Hutton, director at Fespa UK and Reconomy during the development phase.
“As we transition away from problematic plastics like PVC, it’s crucial we support our customers in making better, informed choices,” Mr Rowell added. “This pilot helps us do just that while strengthening the commercial case for sustainability.”
Tradeprint has indicated that, subject to the results of the pilot, it plans to explore a wider rollout of the scheme and is encouraging industry partners to engage with the initiative as it develops.
