Why it matters: Sir Bobby remains one of Ipswich Town's greatest ever managers, having delivered the 1981 UEFA Cup triumph, as well as the 1978 FA Cup, and the prominent tribute above Planet Blue needed refreshing to preserve his legacy for supporters.
What they're saying: Tom Wright, 51, owner of Hudson Group and an Ipswich Town season-ticket holder, grew up watching Town with his dad in the 1980s with fond memories of legends like Terry Butcher and Russell Osman.
"I'm of an age to remember the success Sir Bobby brought, and so it's extra special to work on this significant project," Wright said.
"The Sir Bobby Robson stand is the way I walk in from town – it's the first thing I see. I'm going to be very pleased and proud to have that constant reminder."
Wright, who attends matches with friends in the West Stand, believes Town can secure a famous Premier League return this season.
"We've got the strongest squad in the Championship – there's no reason why not," he said. "The momentum is building, the team seem to be gelling, and promotion seems achievable."
The details: Work began on Monday and is expected to be completed by Friday, January 16. The new image shows Sir Bobby holding the UEFA Cup won by the Blues in 1981, replacing the original headshot installed in 2009.
Sir Bobby was in charge of Ipswich from 1969 to 1982 before going on to manage England for eight years and other clubs including Barcelona and Newcastle United.
A club spokesperson said: "The original image of the legendary Town boss was introduced above the club shop in 2009 but, having been exposed to the elements for more than 16 years, will now be updated with a fresh look."
Wright said Hudson Group spent months testing high-resolution samples to prevent pixelation, explaining that vinyl products have a maximum 10-year lifespan before fading and peeling. The project required coordinating around seven people across design, print and installation teams.
For context: Hudson Group, a Suffolk-based signage and branding company founded in 1966 and serving national and international clients, has completed several recent projects at Portman Road, including the new South Stand illuminated letters, stadium signage and executive boxes.
The bottom line: Sixteen years after it was first installed, Sir Bobby Robson's image above Planet Blue is being refreshed by a proud local business with its own six-decade connection to the town – ensuring the club legend's legacy remains prominently displayed for a new generation of supporters.
