Why signage is essential for new businesses

Branding to reflect yourself

Building a brand presence is integral to any start-up’s initial marketing strategy and its continual development is a process that will never end, so long as the company succeeds. Whilst you spend a lot of time planning your tone of voice, perfecting your logo, deciding on colour scheme’s etc, you also need to keep in mind that these factors need to be reinforced everywhere, including your signage. Depending on the nature of your business, you will probably require signs for your premises. Whether they be wayfinding, car park, health and safety, plaques, pavement furniture, fascia, interior wall or window graphics, these all need to be factored into your brand positioning. Also, don’t forget about your vehicle graphics too, this cost-effective advertising can be getting business for you on the move 24/7 and lasts for years!

Still Relevant

In the days of digital marketing, where websites are a key focus, signs and graphics haven’t fallen off the priority list. In fact, a survey conducted in 2016 of over 1,000 business decision makers across the UK revealed that 83% of businesses consider signs, graphics and displays an integral part of their marketing strategy. It’s no surprise that internet giants, Google, opened their first ever retail store earlier this year. Whilst being leaders of digital trends, Google realised the importance of a physical relationship with their consumers It is of vital importance that when setting up your business you create both an online and a physical presence ready for whoever may be looking for you. So, we would suggest a two-pronged strategy for start-up marketing activities, digital and physical.

Location, Location, Location

Careful consideration needs to be given not only to your branding, but also the types and placements of your signage. Any good sign maker will have the experience to advise you on these matters and if you are unsure of what signs and graphics you need to meet regulations visit the government website (www.gov.co.uk) for more information. With all signage, the sole purpose is to communicate a message and there are many ways in which you can do this. From telling people about your business, directing people around your business or health & safety signage to ensure you are complying with government guidelines.

Cost Effective Solutions

One of the best things about signs and graphics are that they can last for years, making them one of the most cost effective advertising mediums available. In the aforementioned survey, 99% of those surveyed revealed that good quality, attractive signs and graphics help to give a good first impression of a business. It’s a branding opportunity not to be missed and one which will really help you stand out from the crowd.

Company Credentials

As with any purchase, ensuring you are buying from a reputable, qualified company is key. A focus on health and safety is essential as is a sign company who can identify solutions suitable for your business need. Membership of the British Signs and Graphics Association is also a good indicator of choice of sign company. At Signs Express, we are celebrating our 25th year in franchising and our 28th year in the sign industry in 2017. We are a multi-award-winning provider of all manner of signs for all kinds of industry and with over 65 centres up and down the UK, we have the coverage to provide seamless national projects as well as offering a local service to tens of thousands of businesses each year.

Top Tips

You only have one chance to make a good first impression, so here are our top 5 signage tips: 1. A picture says a thousand words! 2. Go big! If you’re looking for high impact or expecting customers to view from a distance, boost the size of your sign. It will be well worth it. 3. Stick to one main message, don’t confuse your potential customer! 4. Use lighting for maximum visibility 24/7 5. Use one of Signs Express’ 65 production centres!