The Best of Canada’s Sign Industry Awards (BOCSIes) honours the top work of sign companies, related organizations, and individuals across the country. The competition also features the Sign Company of the Year (SCOTY) category. Winners were selected by an expert panel of independent judges.
This year’s competition attracted many high-calibre projects, representing the best of the best from all corners of Canada’s sign industry. With final scores proving close, all entrants deserve congratulations for the outstanding quality of their work. In this regard, we are including the runners-up in this special showcase.
The judges had to consider the merits of each project entry in five different categories: originality, creativity, materials, appearance, and design suitability. For Sign Company of the Year (SCOTY) entrants, judges based their selections on criteria such as industry involvement and good business practices.
Here’s presenting:
Sign Company of the Year
The winner is Signature Sign & Image 
Company Name: Signature Sign & Image
Submitter: Courtney Albanese
Since 1983, this Niagara-based company has been providing brand identity and sign solutions for clients ranging from small startups to large corporations. Despite its growth, the company remains dedicated to delivering high-quality design, products, and customer service. What sets it apart is its small, tight-knit team of 16 individuals, whose hard work and dedication contribute to its long-term success.
The company is actively involved in the local community and industry associations. Jeff Wallis, a team member, serves as a board member and volunteer for the Ontario Sign Association (OSA). The company is also a member of OSA, volunteers with SAC, and recently sent three young employees to a Young Professionals Network (YPN) leadership conference. Each year, the company participates in a toy drive for the Boys and Girls Club of Niagara, Ont., and donates signage and banners to organizations such as Birchway Niagara, the Lions Clubs, and both the Greater Niagara and South Niagara Chambers of Commerce.
With a team of 16 full-time staff, the company provides comprehensive employee training, including health and safety, working at heights certification, and job-specific skills. Employees are encouraged to pursue additional training—a recent example is one of a vinyl technician who attended a vehicle wrapping course.
Runner up #1: Media Resources International
Company Name: Media Resources Inc.
Submitter: Sidney Brownell
Founded in 1967 as Grant Signs, Media Resources Inc. is a North American leader in LED digital display manufacturing and installation. With its headquarters in Oakville, Ont., and additional offices in Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, B.C., and the U.S., the company operates more than 125 service vehicles and runs a modern manufacturing facility. Media Resources Inc. focuses on maintaining a positive work environment, prioritizing health and safety with International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 45001 certification and developing innovative digital products.
Media Resources is involved in local community support efforts, particularly during the holidays, when it collects donations for women’s shelters and local food banks. The company is also a member of several associations, including the Oakville Chamber of Commerce, Sign Association of Ontario, SAC, International Sign Association, and Outdoor Advertising Association of America (OAAA).
With more than 300 full-time staff, Media Resources Inc. offers comprehensive training, including workplace safety programs (WHMIS), online modules for Worker & Supervisor Awareness, Workplace Violence & Harassment, and AODA Training. The company also provides ongoing safety talks and offers financial assistance for employees pursuing courses in Project Management, Business Management, and Computer Programs.
Runner up #2: Quarterhorse Solutions
Company Name: Quarterhorse Solutions
Submitter: Adam Krahn
Quarterhorse is a multidisciplinary studio specializing in integrating signage, graphics, and millwork to produce and fabricate dynamic spaces. The team focuses on transforming clients’ concepts into environments that convey clear, compelling stories. By leveraging a range of skill sets, Quarterhorse can handle various projects, including complex requests.
In the community, Quarterhorse actively supports initiatives related to children, medical care, sporting events, and education. The company is a member of several professional associations, including the Urban Experience Alliance, The Society for Experiential Graphic Design (SEGD), and SAC. It also supports design students through an annual scholarship for interior design graduates and hosts tours that introduce students to materials, industry trends, and accessible wayfinding practices.
