What Types of Signs Are Best for My Business?
When it comes to choosing the right signage for your business, the decision goes far beyond simply selecting something that looks good.
The right sign can drive foot traffic, improve brand recognition, and set the tone for the customer experience. But with so many different types of signs available, how do you know which one is best for your business?
In this post, we’ll explore various types of signs and help you choose the one that best fits your needs, whether you're opening a new store, rebranding, or upgrading your signage strategy.
1. Storefront Signs (Exterior Signs)
Best For:Physical retail stores, restaurants, or service-based businesses located in high-traffic areas.
Your storefront sign is often the first impression potential customers will have of your business. Therefore, it needs to be eye-catching, clear, and aligned with your brand identity. Common types of storefront signs include:
- Channel Letters: These three-dimensional letters are lit from within or with external lights and are perfect for businesses that want to stand out. They're great for both day and night visibility.
- Blade Signs: Suspended from the building’s facade, these signs are ideal for businesses located on busy streets where people may not be looking directly at your storefront.
- Acrylic/Metal Signs: These sleek and modern options are versatile, durable, and often used for more upscale or professional settings.
- Window Graphics: If you have large windows, using them for branding or advertisements can be an affordable and creative way to capture attention. They can feature anything from logo designs to promotions or operating hours.
A visible sign with legible font and clear messaging makes a sign easily recognizable. At Calibre Signs, we make sure your signs are attractive, visible from a far and close-up distance.
2. Indoor Signs
Best For: Offices, showrooms, or businesses where branding and directional clarity matter inside the building.
Indoor signage plays a key role in guiding customers and employees around your business and reinforcing your brand message. Here are some common indoor signage options:
Directional Signs : These help people navigate your building and are perfect for larger businesses, offices, or multi-story establishments. Directional signs can be installed on walls, floors, or suspended from the ceiling.
Wayfinding Systems : These are more extensive signage systems that help people find their way through complex spaces like malls, hospitals, or campuses. They typically include maps or directories.
Reception Signs : A stylish, custom reception sign featuring your company name and logo can immediately establish a welcoming and professional atmosphere for clients and guests.
Wall Murals/Graphics : These can be used to create an immersive brand experience in your office or store. Whether it’s a full mural or smaller accent pieces, these signs can provide a visually striking focal point.
Think about your customer journey when choosing indoor signs. What will guide them from the entrance to the checkout counter, or to key areas like restrooms or meeting rooms? Understanding the layout of store/office or building and how to best guide your visitors/customers will help you identify your needs!
3. Digital Signs
Best For: Businesses with high foot traffic or those who want to display dynamic content like promotions, events, or updates in real-time.
Digital signage is an exciting and modern option that offers flexibility and versatility. Some common types of digital signs include:
LED Signs : These signs are highly visible both day and night and can display changing messages, making them ideal for promotions, sales, or event notifications.
Digital Menu Boards : Popular in restaurants and cafes, these digital boards can easily be updated and even customized to match the current mood or theme of your restaurant.
Interactive Kiosks : For a more tech-savvy approach, interactive kiosks can be used for self-service ordering, product lookups, or interactive advertisements.
Digital signs are best when your content needs to change regularly or you want to engage customers interactively. Keep in mind that they tend to require more maintenance and a larger upfront investment than traditional signage.
4. Vehicle Wraps and Fleet Graphics
Best For: Businesses with a fleet of vehicles or those that want to promote their brand while on the go.
If you have delivery trucks, company cars, or service vehicles, vehicle wraps can be an effective way to promote your business on the road. These signs are printed on high-quality vinyl and can be applied to the exterior of vehicles, turning them into moving advertisements.
Make sure your design is simple, with a clear logo, business name, and contact information. Vehicles often drive at high speeds, so legibility is crucial.
5. Event and Trade Show Signs
Best For: Companies participating in trade shows, conferences, or pop-up events.
For businesses that need to stand out at conventions or events, custom signs are crucial. These signs include banners, pop-up displays, and table signage. They can attract attention and help visitors navigate your booth or understand what you offer at a glance.
Banner Stands : These are portable, easy to set up, and customizable, making them perfect for trade shows or outdoor events.
Pop-Up Displays : These are larger displays that can be used as a backdrop or feature your logo and key messaging in a large format.
Keep your event signage consistent with your branding, but ensure it’s also simple and concise so it grabs attention quickly in a crowded environment.
6. Dimensional Signs
Best For: High-end retail stores, offices, and professional services.
Dimensional signs create a three-dimensional effect and are often used to add depth and elegance to a brand. They are a great choice for businesses that want to convey a sophisticated, high-quality image. Dimensional signs can be made from materials like acrylic, wood, or metal and can either be internally lit or non-lit.
Dimensional signs are perfect for businesses that want to make a statement with a premium, professional look.
7. Banners and Temporary Signs
Best For: Promotions, events, or seasonal advertising.
If you need a temporary sign to promote a limited-time offer or seasonal event, banners are an excellent solution. These can be made from vinyl or fabric and are available in various sizes. Banners are a cost-effective option for short-term promotions or outdoor advertising.
Pro Tip: Use high-quality materials and ensure the banner is securely mounted to avoid wear and tear, especially in outdoor environments.
Conclusion
Choosing the right type of sign for your business depends on many factors, including your industry, budget, location, and the impression you want to leave with potential customers. Whether you're opting for a simple storefront sign or an interactive digital display, ensure that your signage is consistent with your brand identity and serves a clear purpose.
By investing in the right type of signage, you can effectively communicate your brand, guide customers, and make a lasting impact. If you're unsure which sign is best for your business, consider consulting with a professional sign manufacturer who can guide you through the process, from design to installation.
Ready to attract customers and help them to get where they need? Contact us at Calibre Signs today to discuss your options!
