There are two keys to making an impact with a banner: first, the message on your banner should be simple and easy to read from a distance (similar to a headline you would use on a billboard), second, your banner needs to be placed prominently on your storefront, in your parking area, or on your lawn so passersby can view it immediately.

 Displays

When skillfully designed, displays can become a retailer’s (or any other business owner’s) best friend. Displays can incorporate anything from retractable banners, poster boards, to a branded point-of-purchase kiosk or backdrop. Displays can create excitement and interaction for your customers while differentiating your store from the competition.

 ”If you want to use a display to help spur sales, taking a little time to determine what you want to get out of your display, and how it will fit into your existing floor plan is a good idea,” says Jim Moore, Signage Specialist for Hamblin Signs & Design. Moore also  recommends portable displays, especially if you sponsor or exhibit at events away from your store. There are many lightweight, completely collapsible displays that can be carried from place to place in a convenient duffel bag.

 Sandwich Boards

When it comes to portability and message flexibility, the classic sandwich sign is hard to beat, especially when your objective is to pull potential customers in from the sidewalk to your store or restaurant. Look for a sturdy, A-frame construction (molded plastic withstands all kinds of weather) with large panels where new messages can be posted easily. Sandwich boards are also great for directional signage inside or outside at special events or on large properties such as school campuses, golf courses, and tradeshows.

 Wall Graphics

Have you always thought a mural would be a great attention-getter on one of your outside (or inside) walls, but commissioning a painter seemed too time-consuming or costly? Now there’s a great alternative that’s as easy as ordering a billboard!

 ”Weather-proof vinyl can now be applied to most outdoor surfaces to create the look of a mural without the expense, time-investment or uneven wear of a traditional painted one,” explains Jim Moore of Hamblin Signs & Design. “You simply select your design and it can be produced and installed within a few days.”

 Floor Graphics

Similar to wall graphics, you can add your marketing and sales message to the sidewalk outside your business and the floors inside your business space. You may have seen this approach in some malls and grocery stores.

 ”Because they are directly in the foot traffic stream, floor graphics can be extremely effective in capturing attention and motivating action,” Moore explains. “Also, floor graphics tend to be smaller in size, which makes them affordable for even the smallest business.”

 Table Top Signage

Many businesses overlook their merchandising racks, shelving and counter space when it comes to signage, however, these are prime locations for creative uses of smaller signs that can be relatively inexpensive.

 While they are cost-effective, Moore cautions against using handmade signs which can undermine the brand and professional image that your business and its employees work hard to cultivate. Instead, he suggests using a professional graphic designer to set up initial signage templates that support your visual brand, the text of which can then be modified in a simple desktop publishing program as needed. The sign can then be printed an slipped into a clear acrylic sign holder.

 In addition to some of the strategies outlined above, don’t forget to make sure your permanent signage is highly visible, attractive, and clean! Remember to check the sign ordinances for your area prior to posting any additional external signage, even if it’s temporary.