Transforming Southeastern Trains: Stewart Signs in Action 

At Stewart Signs, we thrive on projects that challenge us to combine precision, durability, and visual impact on a grand scale.

Our recent work with Southeastern Trains is a shining example of what we do best. Over several months, our team undertook the full wrap of 36 Class 376 trains, each with five carriages, creating a bold, cohesive identity across the entire fleet. This was completed alongside the wrapping of a further 29 Class 395 trains. The result is a visual statement that enhances Southeastern’s presence across the network while reflecting our commitment to excellence in transport graphics.

Project Scope and Timeline

The project kicked off in March 2025 and is set for completion in early December 2025. Covering 78 Southeastern trains, the scale of the project demanded precise planning and execution. Each train required meticulous attention to detail to ensure consistency and high-quality results across every carriage. Our teams worked from both Gillingham and Ashford depots, bringing the same level of care and craftsmanship to each installation that has become synonymous with Stewart Signs.

From the outset, careful project management was key. Comprehensive scheduling ensured that each stage, from surface preparation to application, ran smoothly, keeping the project on track while maintaining rigorous quality standards. This kind of large-scale coordination is where our experience in transport graphics truly comes into its own.

Material Choice and Industry Expertise

For this project, we specified 3M IJ180 vinyl with a gloss, anti-graffiti lamination. This high-performance material was selected for its; outstanding print quality, longevity, meeting UK Rail Fire Certification Standards and the assurance of comprehensive warranties. As a long-standing 3M Select Platinum Partner and authorised 3M Rail Partner, Stewart Signs meets the highest level of accreditation in production, installation and aftercare. This partnership reflects our commitment to using the best materials and techniques to achieve lasting results.

Preparation: The Key to Flawless Installation

Every successful project begins with preparation, and wrapping an entire fleet is no exception. At Stewart Signs, we start with comprehensive site surveys and detailed planning. This includes risk assessments, method statements, and clear project delivery plans. Artwork proofs and colour checks are completed in advance, ensuring that every carriage matches the intended design.

Our dedicated site supervisors and project managers oversee every stage of the installation process. Before work begins, a kick-off call with all stakeholders ensures alignment and smooth communication throughout the project. This level of preparation allows us to anticipate challenges, streamline installation, and maintain our high standards from start to finish.

Application: Precision Across Every Carriage

When it comes to application, consistency is critical. Each carriage receives careful attention, with continuous quality checks throughout the process. Supervisors provide ongoing sign-off at every stage, ensuring every element meets our exacting standards. Our teams work strictly within health and safety regulations, combining technical expertise with meticulous attention to detail. The result is a fleet that not only looks visually stunning but also maintains durability and longevity under everyday operational conditions.

Delivering Excellence Across the Network

Completing 65 full train wraps is a testament to the skill, dedication, and professionalism of the Stewart Signs team. From detailed planning and site preparation to precision application, we demonstrate our capability to manage projects of significant scale while delivering striking, high-quality results.

This Southeastern Trains project reinforces Stewart Signs’ position as a leader in transport graphics. By creating visually cohesive, durable, and impactful designs, we help our clients make a tangible impression across the network.

Impact Across the Southeastern Fleet

Our partnership with Southeastern extends across a wide variety of fleet projects from partial wraps to internal and external labels, through to eye-catching short-term campaign graphics. Recent projects include completing 29 class 395 trains during the same period including 24 Olympic-themed graphics featuring athlete names and signatures, Rail 200 livery, an Armed Forces Remembrance wrap, and the vibrant Trainbow design celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community. Delivered across a busy programme, these projects highlight our ability to manage multiple high-profile projects while maintaining the precision, quality and reliability Stewart Signs is known for.

Client Testimonial

“We have recently completed a large exterior vinyl wrap project involving a full wrap of our fleet of 36x 376 units and a partial wrap of our fleet of 29x 395 high speed units. Stewart Signs not only completed both fleets on time, but they also accelerated the completion of the 376 fleet by picking up additional units when a fleet availability opportunity arose mid project. Both these fleets were completed at the same time at different depot locations; however, Stewart Signs were able to mobilise multiple teams, demonstrating their ability to run multiple projects simultaneously. During the project there were multiple changes in wrap application locations, driven by operational constraints. Stewart Signs managed these changes without dropping a single unit, they literally finished at one location on a Friday and were ready to go again at the new location on Monday.

The quality of the wrap was excellent, very few snags were found on unit inspections and those issues that were found were immediately rectified before the unit entered passenger service. In addition to the standard wrap, the High Speed fleet had many special graphics including 24x British athlete signatures, effectively making every wrap slightly different. Stewart Signs managed the logistics of the printing and shipment of the vinyls to align with the unit delivery schedule, they were also able to flex when the unit delivery schedule was altered at short notice.

I must mention the people within Stewart Signs that made this project a massive success, from the project team to the installation teams the staff were absolutely fantastic. Communication was fantastic, weekly calls were set up at project management level, onsite teams were clean, tidy and polite and the RMAS & RA’s where all supplied in good time. It truly is the people at Stewart Signs that made this project a success, it was more than a customer supplier relationship, it was one team delivering a project with completely aligned goals and objectives that resulted in a successful project delivery”.

Andy Barrs: Project Manager, Southeastern Railway