3 out of 4 American shoppers visit business for the first time because they find its signage appealing. Around 70% say attractive signage has helped shape their purchase decisions. Even in an age of social media and digital advertising, physical signage is a vital part of “last mile” marketing.
The right signage can amplify your presence, enhance brand recognition, build confidence, and boost sales. However, maximizing the impact of your signs and the investment you have made, requires choosing the right signs for the application.
These are the top 5 most impactful types of indoor and outdoor signs for building brand awareness.
1. A Stunning Storefront Sign
Your storefront sign is the first impression you will make with potential customers and clientele. It sets the tone for your brand, tells people what you do, and, highlights your location. Designed correctly, a storefront sign can make your brand feel trustworthy and established, enhancing the perceived value of your business and strengthening customer experiences.
Types of signs to consider:
– Channel letters – Individually lit letters that create a premium, modern look.
– Dimensional signs – Raised lettering and logos that add sophistication.
– Backlit cabinet signs – Highly visible day or night, ideal for attracting customers.
– Blade signs – Installed perpendicular to the wall, they are ideal for marketing to pedestrians.
2. Portable Signs for the Sidewalk
Sidewalk signs are small but mighty. They are one of the most impactful and cost-effective ways of communicating directly with pedestrians, whether on a busy street or in a shopping mall. You can move them around, update messages quickly, and test what works with minimal investment.
Types of signs to consider:
– A-frame signs – Self-supporting signs ideal for displaying promos, lunch specials, and welcome messages.
– Chalkboard and whiteboard signs – Update messaging effortlessly and keep your marketing fresh day after day.
– Flag signs – Eye-catching and dynamic, they are popular at dealerships, real estate offices, and more.
– Poster inserts with protective covers – Display the latest promotions and events on posters you can swap out in minutes.
3. Vinyl Banners for Indoor Branding
Vinyl banners are an excellent option, whether you are setting up for an event, trade show, or just looking to brand a lobby. Lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to install, vinyl banners are one of the most versatile means of branding. Plus, you choose from a wide range of mounting options and styles to suit your needs.
Types of signs to consider:
– Hanging banners – Use them to showcase branding and promotions across large spaces.
– Pop-ups – Great for creating backdrops, backgrounds, and photo-walls.
– Pole banners – Add a professional, creative look to walkways and large venues.
– Retractable banners – Set them up in minutes anywhere and store them easily for repeat use.
4. Digital Signs Indoors and Outdoors
Digital signage has been transformative for marketing. It gives you full control over your message and lets you change content with just a few clicks. You can use digital signs to display branding, corporate films, ads, product showcases, and so much more. Plus, with interactive digital signs, you can also boost customer engagement.
Types of signs to consider:
– LED marquees – High-visibility messaging that can be updated in real time, popular at schools, churches, and retail establishments.
– Indoor displays – Showcase promotions, videos, and product highlights inside your store or lobby.
– Interactive kiosks – Engage customers with interactive maps, directories, and more.
– Digital menu boards – Display menus, specials, and promotional films, and more.
5. Vehicle Graphics for Widespread Branding
Turn your commercial vehicles into mobile billboards for the business and reach thousands of people every day with vehicle wraps. You choose from a wide range of styles that allow you to brand your vehicle, attract attention, and display promotions. Vinyl wraps can potentially raise the resale value of your vehicles by protecting the paintwork from minor scratches and scuffs.
Types of signs to consider:
– Full vehicle wraps – Completely cover your car, van, or truck with branded graphics for maximum impact.
– Partial wraps and spot graphics – Install branding on a single side or a single panel with decals which are ideal for displaying your business’s name and logo.
– Magnetic signs – Great for temporary use, you can install them on any vehicle and re-use them effortlessly.
– Perforated window graphics – Maximize branding space, enhance comfort, and security with window graphics.
Finding the Right Signs for Your Space
Before you invest in any signage, take a step back and assess your space and your needs. Look at your building, understand your foot traffic, the lighting in the area, and even your surrounding area. Understanding these factors will tell what type of signage will work best. Some questions to ask:
- Where can you reach your ideal customer base?
- What will they see first?
- What do potential customers expect to see?
- Will the signs help you differentiate your business?
- Will your branding help bolster customer experience?
- Will it help boost sales?
- How much space is there to install your sign?
Answers to these questions will help inform which signs to install and where. A common mistake is installing a single sign and expecting exponential return from it. Signage, as a form of marketing, is cumulative—the more frequently you are seen, the greater the marketing impact.
Work with a Leading Sign Company in California
Over 25 years, VizComm Signs & Graphics has helped small, mid-sized, and large businesses maximize their marketing potential. Receive creative insight and premium signage that deliver real marketing impact. Schedule a free consultation with our California-based team that understands your business and your audience.
