Alright, let’s chat about something every brick-and-mortar business owner needs to think about: business signage.
Imagine you’re walking down a street, eyes skimming over store after store. What makes you stop? Often, it’s a sign that pops—a beacon calling out to potential customers. If you’re planning to step up your sign game, here’s what you need to keep top of mind.
Business Signage: 6 Key Considerations
Image Credit: Pexels
1. Visibility And Readability
First things first, if your sign isn’t visible or legible from a distance, what’s the point? You’ve got to make sure it grabs the eye. Play around with size, colours, and font styles.
Key move? Consider decal printing the name of your business in a large, clear font—it’s crisp, clear, and oh-so-readable. Keep the colours contrasting and the message clear without cramming too much info on there. Nobody wants to read a novel on the move!
2. Location, Location, Location
Think about where to plant your sign. It’s all about location! Your sign should be where it can flirt with the eyes of your would-be customers. Sometimes up high works; other times, right on the sidewalk level might catch more glances.
And hey, don’t forget to take a look at those local zoning laws—you don’t want to set up only to take down later.
3. Brand Consistency
Your sign should be like a mini-me of your brand. The colours, the fonts, the vibe—it should all scream “you”! This consistency helps people recognise your brand no matter where they see it.
Whether it’s on your website, your social media, or waving at them on the street, it should all tie together neatly. It’s also an opportunity to embed your unique brand symbols or slogans that tell your story at a glance.
4. Durability And Maintenance
Signs have it rough—rain, snow, or just a really sunny day, they have to stand strong. Choose materials that can take what the weather throws at them and still look good.
Think about how easy it is to keep clean, too. A dirty sign can really turn customers off.
Plus, consider the longevity of the materials you choose; investing a bit more upfront can save you maintenance headaches down the road.
5. Lighting
Light it up! Good lighting can make your sign a 24/7 advertisement. Whether it’s spotlights for an old-school charm or LEDs for that modern glow, make sure it lights up well.
It not only increases visibility but also adds a touch of drama or warmth, depending on your style.
Lighting can also highlight special features of your sign, like texture or 3D elements, enhancing its overall impact even from afar. Don’t overlook this; a well-lit sign is an inviting sign, no matter the time of day.
6. Compliance And Legal Considerations
Let’s talk about red tape. You’ve got to know the rules of the signage game in your town. Size, brightness, location—it’s all regulated. Make sure you get the right permits and stay in the clear. Trust me, dealing with fines or, worse, having to pull down your beautiful sign is no fun. And keep in mind that these regulations often change, so staying updated is crucial to keep your signage legal and effective.
Conclusion
So there you have it—a sign isn’t just a sign. It’s a shout-out to your potential customers, a way to stand out, and a key part of your branding magic. Get it right with readability, placement, style, durability, lighting, and yes, staying on the right side of the law. Remember, this might be the first thing that catches someone’s eye. So, make it count, and make it memorable!
Related: How to Expand Your Business