Marc’s 25 Year creative journey running Auto Graphix
Marc Tucker, the owner of Auto Graphix, a renowned mobile sign-writing business based in Manchester, recently opened up about his remarkable 25-year journey in the industry. What began as a modest venture from his bedroom has grown into a thriving business operating out of a dedicated unit. Marc now helps clients bring their visions to life through expertly crafted designs and signage for their businesses.
Reflecting on his early days, Marc shares, “I went to college and lasted about three months before realising that I wanted to start working.” His decision to leave college was due to wanting more hands-on experience, which led him to spend the next 3 to 4 years honing his skills in the industry. This foundation and practice began the way for the creation of Auto Graphix. Initially, Marc outsourced design work to others while he focused on the fitting of signage for clients. Over time, he invested in his own equipment and took full control of the design and production process.
Today, Marc runs Auto Graphix with a blend of dedication and flexibility. He balances his role at Auto Graphix with a full-time job, viewing his sign-writing business as both a passion and a hobby. This dual commitment allows him to enjoy the best of both worlds. Marc’s work schedule is particularly adaptable, thanks to his shift work; he often finishes at 3 PM and then heads to his unit to complete any pending jobs. This flexibility is essential, as many of his customers require urgent turnaround times. Marc has refined his time management skills over the years to meet these demands and ensure customer satisfaction.
Outside of work, Marc indulges in several creative hobbies that keep him engaged and inspired. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he discovered a new passion for collecting and building intricate Lego sets. His impressive collection features detailed models such as cars and a British Airways Concorde. He is eagerly preparing to embark on a new project - a grand piano constructed entirely out of Lego bricks, which promises to be a fascinating addition to his collection.
Marc’s creative interests extend beyond Legos. He also enjoys assembling complex jigsaw puzzles, which he mounts as wall art once completed. This hobby allows him to add a personal touch to his living space and showcase his appreciation for originality. His home is adorned with unique painted vinyl artwork, reflecting his belief in the importance of having something truly unique. Marc explains, “Nobody else in the world will have that. It’s unique. That’s what I like to do.”
One of Marc’s most notable projects was a few years ago when he worked on 40-foot trailers for an HGV driving school. These trailers were part of a significant advertising campaign for one of his longest-standing clients. Marc describes this project as both challenging and rewarding. The design work required precise matching and cutting of two-piece designs, which was crucial for achieving a seamless look. In total, he worked on approximately seven or eight large trailers and around 15-20 smaller trucks. Seeing his work on the road, especially as a perfectionist, he finds very rewarding.
When offering advice to aspiring creatives in the industry, Marc emphasises that success doesn’t require a substantial initial investment. Instead, he advises using resources wisely and focusing on building skills and experience. He notes that starting small, as he did from his bedroom, can lead to significant growth over time. Marc’s journey illustrates how persistence and a focus on quality can lead to substantial opportunities.
For more information about Marc’s work, visit Auto Graphix. You might even spot one of his designs out and about!
From the free initial consultation to the final installation, Auto Graphix ensures that every client’s needs are thoroughly understood. Clients have the flexibility to make unlimited alterations to their designs right up to the production stage, ensuring the final product perfectly meets their expectations.
