The Deep

Overlooking the Humber Estuary, The Deep is one of the UK’s most spectacular aquariums and a leading education and conservation charity. Home to species, including sharks, rays, turtles, penguins and more, The Deep is recognised internationally for its conservation work. As a member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), it plays a vital role in breeding programmes, field conservation projects, and in educating the public on marine environments.

Since its opening in 2002, The Deep has welcomed over 10 million visitors. Beyond being an aquarium, it serves as a cultural landmark for Hull, inspiring people of all ages to understand and protect the oceans.

John E Wright & Co’s relationship with The Deep began before the iconic building first opened its doors. In the run up to the grand opening, our team supported with the design and print of core materials, helping shape the visitor journey from day one. What started as project based support has since grown into a trusted partnership spanning more than two decades.

Today, we remain The Deep’s go to partner for signage and print solutions. Our role extends beyond production: we collaborate closely with their team to provide creative input, practical advice, and start to end delivery - from design and material recommendations through to installation. This longstanding relationship is built on mutual trust, shared values, and a joint commitment to excellence.

Aquariums are dynamic environments. Exhibits change, new animals arrive, and educational themes evolve over time. This means signage needs to be flexible, durable, and engaging. Working with The Deep, we have delivered a wide range of solutions, including:

• Wayfinding signage to help visitors navigate through the building with ease.

• Information boards that combine high-quality visuals with educational content,

  making marine science accessible to all.

• Decorative graphics and wall vinyls that bring exhibits to life, immersing visitors in underwater worlds.

• Interactive displays designed to spark curiosity in younger audiences.

• Event and promotional materials such as pull-up banners and temporary signage for campaigns and exhibitions.

To achieve this, we use a variety of materials including Dibond/ACM, Foamex, clear printed vinyl, wall vinyl, acrylic and more . Each is carefully chosen for its finish and suitability to the environment which is important in a high-humidity setting like an aquarium.

One of the exciting aspects of working with The Deep is the constant need for innovation. The building itself is architecturally striking, with curved walls, unique layouts, and dramatic lighting. Standard signage solutions rarely suffice instead, we adapt designs and materials to fit the space seamlessly.

Humidity and lighting conditions present further challenges. Signage must withstand these environmental factors while remaining clear and vibrant. Our team works with specialist finishes and fixings to ensure longevity without compromising on aesthetics.

Accessibility is also central to our approach. Signage is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that information is available and understandable for all visitors, including children and those with additional needs.

The Deep is more than an aquarium, it is an immersive experience and our signage plays a vital role in guiding visitors through this journey. From welcoming entrance displays to exhibit specific information panels, every sign is designed to complement the narrative and help audiences connect with marine life on a deeper level.

By combining bold graphics with clear messaging, we ensure visitors leave with not only lasting memories but also a stronger understanding of the importance of ocean conservation.

Our work with The Deep continues to evolve. As exhibits are refreshed and new educational programmes are developed, we are proud to support their team with innovative, sustainable, and creative signage solutions.

With over 20 years of collaboration behind us, we look forward to continuing this partnership, helping The Deep inspire future generations to care for our oceans.