Blog

Philadelphia Sign Company Celebrates 119 Years

Bringing Brands to Life for Over a Century: Philadelphia Sign Company Celebrates 119 Years

Philadelphia Sign Company, part of the PSCO Sign Group, is a leading national signage solutions provider and is proud to celebrate its 119th anniversary this year. Founded in 1905, PSCO has grown from a single storefront operation into a nationwide powerhouse, leaving its mark on the signage industry for over a century.

“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve our customers for 119 years,” said Bob Mehmet, CEO of Philadelphia Sign Company. “Our rich history is a testament to the dedication and innovation of our employees, who have consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in signage.”

A Legacy of Innovation and Adaptation

The story of PSCO is intricately woven with the evolution of the signage industry itself. In 1911, at 18, Andrew Paxson Trucksess started Philadelphia Sign Company with $500. He began by offering hand-painted signs, a far cry from today’s sophisticated technology.

Over the decades, PSCO has embraced every technological advancement, from the rise of neon in the post-war era to the digital signage solutions of today. The company’s timeline mirrors the growth of the United States, with milestones including:

  • World War II: Philadelphia Sign halted sign production to contribute to the war effort, manufacturing guardhouses, washing machines, and gun shields.
  • 1962: Expansion to Palmyra, New Jersey, as its corporate headquarters.
  • 1987: Pioneering large-scale national signage programs for retail, banks, and petroleum clients.
  • 1993: Commitment to sustainability with lead and zinc oxide-free along with VOC-compliant paints and coatings.
  • 1996: Acquisition of the 250,000 sq. ft. Pennsauken plant.
  • 2000: Expansion to the Littleton, Massachusetts, plant.
  • 2012: Expansion into maintenance and lighting services with our Maintenance and Lighting division.
  • 2015: Expansion into global branding and formation of the TISA alliance. (The International Sign Alliance)
  • 2018: Acquisition of ID Associates in Dothan, Alabama, establishing the Southeast headquarters.
  • 2020: Expansion into Florida operations for installation and service.
  • 2022: Formation of PSCO Kieffer as the Midwest headquarters.

Click here to read more details on our company history.

The PSCO Sign Group: A Unified Force

The launch of PSCO Sign Group as the parent brand brings together these diverse strengths under one umbrella. This strategic move allows PSCO to leverage synergies, streamline operations, and deliver a more comprehensive service offering to clients nationwide.

“The establishment of PSCO Sign Group marks a significant milestone in our company’s history, bringing our evolution as a company together,” said Bob Mehmet. “This new brand reflects the strength and innovation that have driven our success for over a century. We look forward to continuing to be a leader in the signage industry, delivering exceptional service and creative solutions to our clients.”

Follow PSCO Sign Group on LinkedIn for weekly tips and insights to elevate your brand.