Our 2018 Highlights

Article Published - 21/12/2018

Continuous improvement is important to us and this year, it has been recognised more than ever. We’ve upgraded our industry-leading software, launched new websites and even won awards. Delivering Quality, Service and Value is at the centre of everything we do, and it’s been great to look back at what we've achieved, along with some of our best bits!

Advanced Number Plate Designing Software 

PlateSync® is the industry-leading software for designing number 

plates. With connection to the internet, the software automatically uploads the records of every plate registration printed to a secure cloud, which makes this compliant with DVLA’s rules and regulations.

In May, stringent new regulation on data processing known as GDPR came into force in the UK and EU. PlateSync® is fully compliant with all the requirements of GDPR, including protections of individuals’ rights around processing of DVLA-mandated records.

We are continuously developing PlateSync® by introducing additional services through online networking. Our new add-on features enable orders to be placed via a website that will send orders through to PlateSync®, pre-populating the fields without any need to re-input.

Launching replacemyplates.com

In July, we launched replacemyplates.com, a new website that supports our network of trade customers by helping them access the online retail market via click & collect using PlateSync®. Click & collect is currently the only legal way to purchase number plates online. It is a fast and convenient way to buy new or replacement number plates for cars and motorcycles.

Within 6 months, and with the support of our sister company, National Numbers, the website has made significant growth. Over 7 million people nationwide now have a Collection Point within their postcode district and the brand continues to grow.

Why not have a go at designing your own legal plate using our plate builder!

Preparing for the New British Standard

In September, the British Number Plate Manufacturers Association (BNMA) announced that the new British Standard, BS AU 145e, will not be effective from March 2019. However, we have done and will continue with extensive testing to ensure our number plates and plate components are compliant.

Our customers do not need to worry as it is our responsibility, as a proud BNMA member, to ensure you’re compliant by supplying you with quality, reliable components, advanced number plate designing software and guidance as and when you need it.

Award Winning

This year has definitely been one for us to remember as we were crowned Baltic’s Employer of the Year, and also won Made in Sheffield’s Manufacturer of the Year (under £25m) award, thanks to nominations voluntarily submitted by members of our team.

To be recognised as an innovative company operating in this sector is truly humbling. Listening to our customers and learning from them has been invaluable to us as a business as we pride ourselves on building strong relationships. Delivering Quality, Service and Value is important to us, so we can always put our Customers First and meet their needs.

We are very pleased and extremely grateful to have won these awards and to celebrate our success with our customers makes it even more worthwhile.

Our Handmade, Personalised Signage Range

Inspired by vintage and classic number plates, colour was introduced to create a unique signage range that is produced in our wonderful home town of Sheffield. In April, we launched a new website, complete with a brand-new look, that supports our 1894 Sign Co. suppliers nationwide. By entering a postcode into our ‘Find a Supplier’ map, it will display all the local suppliers in the area, along with their contact details, website and social media links. It also provides directions on how to reach their store.

Providing this online service points the general public in the right direction and gets more people through our suppliers’ doors. Supporting small and independent businesses is important to us, as it helps build stronger relationships with our suppliers.

We’re extremely pleased that the brand continues to grow and evolve, and in early January 2019, we’ll be taking 1894 Sign Co. to London to exhibit at Top Drawer for the very first time. We’ll also be returning to the British Craft Trade Fair in April 2019. We’re excited to see you there!

Attending a Range of Fantastic Shows

We have exhibited at many trade shows this year, including the Alliance Automotive Group Motor Factor Show, A1 Spring Show and A1 Convention in Budapest, plus the UK's largest classic car and accessories show, the Classic Motor Show at the NEC in Birmingham.

Attending these shows is a wonderful opportunity to meet enthusiasts and customers alike. It’s also a chance for you to meet our team, put a face to a name, and see the wide variety of products and services we have available. We’re looking forward to doing it all again (and much, much more!) next year!

Giving Back to Charitable Causes

This year, we raised over £2,200 for worthy causes, locally and nationally. We have supported a variety of charities, including Cancer Research UK, Shelter Cymru, St Luke’s Hospice and Sheffield Hospitals Charity.

During the year, our team have organised raffles and special events, with every opportunity to raise funds for those in need. Staff have also raised money through participating in several activities including a two-hour spin class in the gym, conquering the fastest zip line in the world and a completing a brutal 34-mile ultra-marathon. The courage and dedication of our team is inspiring!

Thank you!

It’s been an incredible year for us at Jepson & Co and we hope it’s been enjoyable for you too. We wouldn’t be where we are now without your support, thank you! To our customers, thank you for your business this year and we would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy, prosperous New Year!

Here's to 2019... it's going to be a big one!