Grabbing the attention of passing foot traffic helps drive sales and increase brand visibility. A pavement board sign is one of the most effective and versatile tools for achieving this. Whether you’re a café looking to highlight your daily specials or a boutique showcasing an exclusive promotion, a well-placed pavement sign can draw customers in and make your business stand out.
So, where do you even start?
1. Understand Your Objectives
The first step in selecting the right pavement board sign is to define its purpose. Ask yourself:
- Are you promoting a special offer or sale?
- Do you want to display your menu or services?
- Are you trying to increase general brand awareness?
Your objectives will influence the type of pavement sign you choose. For instance, if you’re advertising daily specials, a chalkboard sign allows for quick and frequent updates. If you’re promoting long-term offers, a poster-style pavement board sign might be more suitable.
Additionally, think about how your objectives align with your overall marketing strategy. Pavement signs can be a powerful extension of your brand’s message, so it’s important to ensure they contribute to your broader promotional goals. By clearly defining what you want your pavement sign to achieve, you can maximise its impact on your business’s success.
2. Choose the Right Style of Pavement Board Sign
Pavement signs come in various styles, each with its unique advantages. Selecting the right one depends on your business type, location, and branding. Here are some popular options:
A-Boards
A classic and versatile choice, A-boards are foldable, double-sided signs that are perfect for displaying messages in high-traffic areas. They’re lightweight, easy to store, and ideal for businesses with limited space. A-boards are also great for seasonal promotions, as they can be quickly updated and moved to different locations as needed.
Swing Signs
These signs feature a swinging panel that catches the eye with movement. Swing pavement board signs are great for locations exposed to light wind, as the motion draws attention naturally. They’re also durable and stable, making them a smart choice for outdoor use in unpredictable weather conditions. Swing signs can also be customised with creative designs to enhance your brand’s personality.
Chalkboard Signs
Perfect for cafés, pubs, and restaurants, chalkboard signs allow you to personalise messages daily. Use them to showcase your menu, special offers, or a quirky message to engage customers. Chalkboard signs are particularly effective for creating a welcoming and approachable atmosphere, as they can convey a sense of creativity and charm.
Poster Signs
Poster pavement board signs have frames that can hold printed posters. They’re ideal for businesses with regularly changing promotions or advertisements. Simply swap out the poster to keep your signage fresh. These signs are highly versatile and work well for businesses that want to maintain a professional and polished appearance while keeping their messaging dynamic.
Highrise Flying Banners
Highrise flying banners are a modern and eye-catching solution for outdoor marketing. These banners are designed to provide maximum visibility by towering above other signage, making them perfect for events, festivals, and locations with heavy foot traffic. Their lightweight yet durable materials ensure stability in various weather conditions, while their height and motion naturally attract attention. Highrise flying banners are an excellent choice for businesses looking to make a bold statement and increase brand recognition in busy areas.
3. Consider Location and Foot Traffic
Where you place your pavement board sign is just as important as the sign itself. Consider the following:
- High Foot Traffic Areas: If your business is located on a busy high street, opt for a sign that’s highly visible and stable enough to withstand bumps from passers-by. Pavement signs strategically placed near pedestrian crossings, entrances, or busy junctions can maximise visibility and engagement.
- Weather Conditions: For outdoor use in the UK, durability is key. Look for signs with water-resistant frames and bases that can withstand rain and wind. Adding protective covers or laminates to printed posters can further safeguard them from weather damage.
- Available Space: Ensure your pavement sign doesn’t obstruct pathways or violate local regulations. Compact designs work well in narrow spaces, while larger signs can be effective in wide-open areas where visibility is crucial.
By understanding the specific challenges and opportunities of your location, you can ensure your pavement sign is both effective and compliant.
4. Match the Design to Your Brand
Your pavement board sign should align with your brand’s visual identity. Consider these design elements:
- Colour Scheme: Use colours that reflect your branding to maintain consistency. Bright, bold colours can help attract attention, while muted tones can convey sophistication.
- Font Style: Choose legible fonts that are easy to read from a distance. Avoid overly decorative fonts that may hinder readability.
- Graphics: Include your logo or high-quality images to reinforce brand recognition. Eye-catching graphics can make your sign more memorable and visually appealing.
A cohesive design ensures that your signage complements your overall marketing strategy and creates a professional impression. Remember, your pavement sign is often the first interaction potential customers have with your business, so make it count.
5. Prioritise Durability and Stability
In the UK’s unpredictable weather, your pavement board sign needs to withstand wind, rain, and occasional sunshine. Look for features such as:
- Waterproof Materials: Signs with aluminium or powder-coated steel frames resist rust and corrosion.
- Weighted Bases: Swing signs and forecourt signs often come with weighted bases to keep them stable in windy conditions. Adding extra weights or using water-fillable bases can provide additional stability.
- Scratch-Resistant Surfaces: This ensures your sign maintains its appearance even with frequent use. High-quality finishes can also prevent fading from UV exposure, keeping your sign looking vibrant over time.
Durability is key to ensuring your investment in a pavement sign delivers long-term value.
6. Factor in Maintenance and Usability
Ease of maintenance is essential for keeping your pavement board sign looking professional. Chalkboard signs, for instance, require regular cleaning to remove chalk residue, while poster signs may need weatherproof covers to protect the print.
Also, consider how easy it is to set up and store your sign. Lightweight, foldable options like A-boards are perfect for businesses that need to bring their signage indoors at the end of the day. For larger, more permanent signs, ensure they are easy to clean and update to minimise downtime and upkeep costs.
Regular maintenance not only preserves the appearance of your sign but also ensures it remains an effective marketing tool.
7. Invest in Quality
While it may be tempting to cut costs, investing in a high-quality pavement board sign pays off in the long run. Durable materials, professional printing, and weather-resistant features ensure your sign remains effective and attractive over time. Remember, your pavement sign is an extension of your business, so prioritise quality to make a lasting impression.
A high-quality sign not only enhances your brand’s image but also reduces the need for frequent replacements, making it a cost-effective choice in the long term.
Make Your Pavement Sign Work for You
Choosing the right pavement board sign for your UK business involves balancing functionality, aesthetics, and durability. By understanding your objectives, considering your location, and investing in a design that reflects your brand, you can create signage that draws attention and drives results.
So, what are you waiting for? Take the first step in boosting your business visibility with the perfect pavement sign. Explore Signwaves' range of high-quality pavement board signs and find the ideal solution for your needs. Let’s make your business stand out on the high street!