Your business might offer the best coffee, products, or services in town, but if no one knows you’re there, it’s a missed opportunity. This is where smart, well designed signage comes in. It acts as a silent salesperson, catching the eye of passersby and turning them into loyal customers. Among the most effective tools in your arsenal are large sidewalk signs, which can stop foot traffic and invite people inside.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing, designing, and using large sidewalk signs to elevate your business, backed by real world examples and data.
Why Your Business Needs a Large Sidewalk Sign
Before a customer ever steps inside, they form an impression based on what they see. A sign is often their very first interaction with your brand. The simple presence of a sign can be the deciding factor for a potential customer. In fact, research shows that nearly 60% of consumers are deterred from entering a store simply because it lacks any signage.
Putting a sign out front, especially large sidewalk signs like an A-Frame Sign, is a direct invitation. They work wonders for grabbing the attention of pedestrians who might otherwise walk right past. A local café in a busy area, for example, saw a dramatic 25% increase in morning foot traffic after placing A frame signs on the corner to advertise breakfast specials. Many of those new patrons said the sign was the specific reason they decided to stop in. It’s a powerful testament to how a simple sign can deliver measurable results.
Designing Large Sidewalk Signs for Maximum Impact
A beautiful sign is useless if people can’t read it. The goal is for someone walking or driving by to understand your message in just a few seconds.
Keep It Clear and Readable
Legibility is consistently rated as the single most important characteristic of a good sign. To ensure your message gets across, follow a few simple principles:
- Size Matters: A good rule of thumb is to have 1 inch of letter height for every 10 feet of viewing distance. So, for a sign to be read from 40 feet away, the letters should be about 4 inches tall.
- Use High Contrast: Dark letters on a light background (or the reverse) are far more effective than low contrast color combinations. Think classic black on white or white on a dark gray.
- Choose Simple Fonts: Avoid overly decorative or script fonts for essential information. While they might look nice up close, they can be difficult to read from a distance.
Stay On Brand
Your signage should be a natural extension of your brand’s personality. Consistency in colors, logos, and tone of voice helps build recognition and trust. For many large companies, reinforcing their brand and image is the most important purpose of their signage. A cohesive look across all your signs, from the main storefront banner to your large sidewalk signs, tells a consistent story. Pair your sidewalk sign with a door-mounted Rectangle Blade Sign so people can spot you from down the street.
Write a Message That Converts
With sidewalk signs, less is more. The message needs to be short, punchy, and enticing. Instead of listing everything you offer, focus on one compelling idea:
- Today’s Special: Fresh Baked Cookies
- Happy Hour: 4 PM to 6 PM
- Come On In!
- New Arrivals Inside
This kind of messaging works. Over half of consumers say that a limited time offer highlighted by a business influences their decision on where to go. Using a sign with changeable letters, like the Letter Sidewalk Sign, makes it easy to keep your message fresh and relevant without any extra cost.
Choosing the Right Materials for Your Large Sidewalk Sign
An outdoor sign has to stand up to the elements. Investing in durable, weather resistant materials will save you money in the long run and keep your business looking professional.
Durability and Weather Resistance are Key
Nothing turns customers away faster than a sign that looks shoddy. Nearly 68% of consumers believe a business’s signage reflects the quality of its products or services. A flimsy, faded sign can signal that your offerings are low quality.
For large sidewalk signs, metal is an excellent choice. Aluminum, in particular, is very popular because it does not rust and can last for years. Many high quality signs are also powder coated. This process involves baking on a protective layer of paint that creates a hard finish, making the sign resistant to chipping, scratches, and corrosion. A powder coated aluminum sign will maintain its appearance through sun and rain, sending a consistent message of quality and care. For a curved profile with the same durability, consider the Rounded Sidewalk Sign.
Portability and Stability
A sidewalk sign needs to be easy to move but sturdy enough to withstand a gust of wind. A well designed A-frame sign, like the A-Frame Sign, is built from lightweight powder coated aluminum, making it easy to fold and bring inside at the end of the day. It’s a practical design that doesn’t sacrifice stability or style. When considering large sidewalk signs, look for a balance of manageable weight and a sturdy frame. In windy locations, add a Sandbag for A-Frame Signs for extra stability.
Advanced Strategies for Your Signage
Once you have a great sign, a few extra strategies can amplify its impact even more.
Create an “Instagrammable” Moment
In today’s social media driven world, a clever or unique sign can become free advertising. A witty quote on a letter board or a beautifully designed sign can become a photo opportunity for customers. This kind of visually catchy signage has become a staple in trendy cafes and retail spaces. When a customer shares a photo of your sign and tags your location, your brand gets exposed to a whole new audience. Just be sure the message feels authentic to your brand.
Avoid Common Mistakes
The quality of your sign sends a powerful message. More than half of consumers (about 52%) are less willing to enter a store if its signs have misspellings or look poorly made. Even worse, a UK survey found that a shocking 98% of people are less likely to patronize a business if its signs are in disrepair (think faded, cracked, or burned out).
Make it a habit to regularly clean your signs and check for any damage. Wipe away dirt, replace any missing letters, and ensure everything looks polished. This simple maintenance shows customers you care about the details.
Frequently Asked Questions about Large Sidewalk Signs
1. How big should my sidewalk sign be?
The ideal size depends on your location and local regulations. The most important factor is visibility. Use the “1 inch of letter height for every 10 feet of distance” rule to guide your design. Always check with your local municipality for any rules about sign dimensions and placement.
2. What is the best material for an outdoor sign?
Powder coated aluminum is an excellent choice. It is lightweight, durable, and rust proof, making it perfect for outdoor use in various weather conditions.
3. What should I write on my sidewalk sign?
Keep it brief and compelling. Announce a daily special, a sale, a welcome message, or a fun quote that reflects your brand’s personality. The goal is to give pedestrians a single, clear reason to stop and come inside.
4. Are large sidewalk signs effective at increasing sales?
Absolutely. By increasing foot traffic, large sidewalk signs directly contribute to sales. Studies and real world examples show businesses can see a significant boost in traffic and revenue, with some reporting an average sales increase of around 10% after improving their signage.
5. Do I need a permit for a large sidewalk sign?
In many areas, yes. Cities and business districts often have regulations regarding the size, type, and placement of sidewalk signs to ensure pedestrian safety and accessibility. It’s always best to check with your local authorities before placing a sign outside.
6. Where can I find high quality, well designed large sidewalk signs?
For businesses looking for durable and aesthetically pleasing options, exploring collections from specialized providers is a great start. You can browse a range of thoughtfully designed large sidewalk signs and other display solutions at George & Willy.
