Illinois Print Shop Owner Vows to Rebuild After Devastating Fire

A long-standing Illinois printing business, Union Signs and Printing, was destroyed by fire in late January, leaving its owner, David Strama, determined to rebuild. The business, which specializes in producing political campaign signs using traditional silkscreen methods, caught fire on 29 January, just weeks before the state's primary elections—its busiest season. Despite the loss, Strama remains focused on keeping his business running with support from the local printing community.

The fire broke out at Union Signs and Printing on 29 January, reducing the building and its equipment to ruins. A week later, investigators were still working to determine the cause. Strama, who has spent decades producing political campaign signs using traditional silkscreen methods, now faces the challenge of rebuilding before Illinois' primary elections—a peak period for his work.

Though the building and machinery are gone, Strama insists they can be replaced. What he'll miss most are the irreplaceable items, like his mother's retired badge and years of collected memorabilia. Yet his immediate priority is serving clients, not dwelling on the past.

The local printing community has rallied around him, offering spare equipment and workspace to keep operations going. Strama has accepted the help, ensuring he can still fulfil orders while planning his next steps. Digital alternatives like vinyl banners and online design tools have grown in popularity since 2020, but his focus remains on meeting current demand.

Strama's business may be in ruins, but his determination to rebuild is clear. With community support and a busy election season ahead, he is already working to restore Union Signs and Printing. The fire's cause remains under investigation, but for now, his priority is keeping his clients' campaigns on track.