3 Reasons Your Business Can Fight Back at Amazon with Signage

Brick and mortar stores are no strangers to competition.  In fact, roughly ten years ago, small businesses were in trouble whenever a new Walmart would pop up in a town. Studies found that the closer a small business was to a Walmart, the more likely it was to end up closing. For every closer a mile was to Walmart, it was 6% more likely to close, while a whopping 35-60% of stores that were located the closest would go out of business. (Source).

Walmart was certainly an entity to be reckoned with.  However, this was mostly a threat for smaller businesses that did not have the same marketing budget as the bigger companies, like Best Buy, JC Penny, and Toys R’ Us who managed to weather the Walmart storm cloud.  Fast forward to today though, and these brick and mortar stores are quaking and folding in the force of a much more formidable foe, one whose omnipresence makes it a threat no matter where a store is located. Being that most of you are business, you most likely have already guessed that I am referring to the online giant, Amazon.  

JC Penney closed 140 of its stores in 2017 and announced that it will continue to close stores this year.  Best Buy plans to close all 250 of its mobile phone stores.  Toys R Us just recently released a statement saying that it will close or sell all 735 of its stores bringing an end to the only store that really seemed to be ours as children as we strolled happily through aisles and aisles of dolls, games, and action figures (we are in intentionally leaving out the countless temper tantrums that could easily ruin the nostalgia we’ve reminded you of).  Even Walmart is not immune, which will close 63 of its Sam’s Club locations impacting 9,400 employees.

So what does all this mean for you and your business?  Well, whether you are a small business like ours, or a Fortune 500 company, upping and adjusting your marketing strategy and making the in-store experience more authentic for customers seem to be the direction many are recommending. We concur with these strategies and luckily, we are in a business that provides a solution to both of these methods. Let’s break down a few reasons why signage can be the answer to fighting the competition.  

#1: Gives Consumers Back Some Control

Research has found that customers go to brick and mortar stores because they are looking for authentic shopping.  In a world where they are bombarded by constant in their face marketing, customers are tired of being aggressively sold to.  We cannot even look at our cell phones without getting a text from some company advertising their products even though we have no memory of signing up for these messages.  When we reply to this communication with STOP in all caps, we really mean it!

Zadig & Voltaire 3D Signs by Landmark Signs

Signage, like Monument Signs or Store-Front Signs, gives consumers the chance to take back some control of when and where they choose to learn about a store and its products.  If they see your sign and are interested, they will come to you and if not, they can move on without their day being disrupted. Furthermore, according to the research, with a brick and mortar store, most of your consumers come from within a 5-mile radius, which means that potential customers will have the chance to see your company twice a day or roughly 60 times a month.  That gives them plenty of time to decide if they want to check your business out without the frustrating experience of being bombarded wherever they go. Don’t be just another company that tries to aggressively convince consumers to give them a try with the next “best deal”.  They get enough of that. Let them see your impressive signage and come to you.

#2: The Original Form of Marketing

It does not get much more authentic for customers than signage, which is a form of advertising that dates back to the ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks.  The Romans used stone or terracotta signage to announce public events. Later, during China’s Song Dynasty, people started using signage for effective branding.

Signage continued to develop and from the late 1890’s to the 1960’s, when chipped- glue

The Chili Pepper Gold Leaf Chipped Glue Window Display by Landmark Signs 

 window displays, gold leafing, and sign painting were the norm for signage advertising (our owner actually learned to create signage with his dad painting by hand).  We can still see hints of these past signs today!  Then in the 1980’s the emergence of neon signs took center stage and since then, this more permanent, long-lasting type of signage continues to dominate the sign industry today.  

In a world of online businesses and temporary, ambiguous marketing that floats through the internet like a cloud in the sky, advertise your long-lasting, permanent business with signage that dates back to ancient times.  What can be more authentic than that?

#3: Enhances the Customer Experience

Bloomberg Businessweek survey revealed that “delivering a great customer experience” has become the new imperative: 80% of the companies polled rated customer experience as a top strategic objective. This is different than simply providing great customer service, which is an aspect of a customer’s experience.  

First American Title Gold Leaf Lobby Sign by Landmark Signs

But what exactly is the elusive customer experience?  Well, according to the Harvard Business Review, it is “the sum-totality of how customers engage with your company and brand, not just in a snapshot in time, but throughout the entire arc of being a customer.”  It is said that all the little things add up in the end, and this is another way of looking at the customer experience. It is all the ways that a customer interacts with your company from the coffee and snacks that are served in your lobby to the day they sign on the dotted line.  And one important component of a customer’s experience is your signage. With more than two-thirds of consumers believing that the quality of a business’ signage is directly related to the business itself, it is imperative that the signage component of the customer experience (from Monument Signs to Lobby Signs) make the right impression on your customers.  

To stand out to your potential customers, choose not just any sign, but a Landmark sign.  Call us today at 714-637-9900!  Or shoot us an email to get a quote.

Experience and innovation have been the backbone of Landmark Signs for more than 35 years.  Located in Orange and servicing all of California, our services include sign design, sign manufacturing, and sign installation.  Choose our specialized sign expertise to turn your ordinary sign into a Landmark!

© Landmark Signs 2018

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3 More Reasons Why Monument Signs Are a Must-Have For Your Business

Last week, we learned 3 Reasons Why Monument Signs Are A Must-Have For Your Business.  These three reasons were to show the permanence of your business, reach more local customers, and be easily located from the street.

But maybe you are still are not convinced.  You have a storefront business sign and window graphic for your business, isn’t that enough?

Well you are in luck, because today, we are going to look at 3 more reasons why Monument Signs are a must-have for your business.

They Are Extremely Customizable

Skyline Push Thru Graphic Monument Sign by Landmark Signs

The wonderful thing about Monument Signs is that they are extremely customizable. This means that you can have a Monument Signs that reflects the exact message that you want your customers to understand about your business.  And being that recent studies show that more than ⅔ of consumers think a sign is directly reflective of the business and its products and services, the importance of this cannot be overstated.

If we are doing the math right, that means that if a sign does not reflect well upon a company, it risks losing 2 out of every 3 potential customers.  Wouldn’t that be a shame for a business like yours, that works so hard to take care of its clients?

So just how custom-made are these signs?  Well, the possibilities and combinations are endless thanks to our award-winning sign design team and expert manufacturers.  Want to make sure your Monument Sign is visible at night? Try an illuminated Monument Sign. What about a Monument that reflects the elegance of your company?  You cannot go wrong with a Gold Lead Monument Sign. Maybe you want to appear solid and dependable. Try a Wood Monument Sign. Do all of these options appeal to you?  Get a Monument Sign with all three!

Just make sure it sends the right message to your potential clients so you have the opportunity to wow them with your service as well as your sign.

They Are Long-Lasting Marketing

South Coast Neon Monument Sign by Landmark Signs

In a marketing world that bombards customers with Facebook and Google ads, having a quality Monument Sign not only helps you stand out from all the other forms of advertisement, but they are also marketing that keeps on giving.

Need more proof that Monument Signs are one of the best forms of advertising?  What about that for a local business, the “vast majority of what you’ll get comes from people who live within 5 miles of your store.  That means the average person will see your sign about twice per day, or about sixty times per month!”

Online ads require constant funding and do little to tell your customers that you are here to stay.  Any brand new business can create an online ad. But you are not just any business, and having a monument sign serves as a form of marketing that will be long-lasting and show that your company is not going anywhere because neither is your Monument Sign.

They Make a Positive First Impression

MLK Jr. Monument Sign by Landmark Signs

As we established in our last blog, much of your business comes from local customers. And if your store is not located right on the street where your 3D Sign can be easily seen or is in a shopping center with many other stores, then the first impression your customer will have of your company is not your Store-Front Sign or Window Graphic, but your Monument Sign.

It is vital that this first impression be the absolute best that it can be.  The importance of first impressions was confirmed in a study done by social psychologist and professor of psychology, explained that their “results [from their study] support the common observation that first impressions are notoriously persistent.”

If your company has a long-lasting, elegant, well-designed Monument Sign, then you have already made a wonderful first impression without having to lift a finger!  And we can see, this positive first impression is likely to last and be even more affirmed by their interaction with you and your wonderful products. After all, you are what works about your business.  Our sign business is just here to make sure people get a chance to find you and experience your stellar service first hand.

To make a positive first impression that lasts with your very own custom-made Monument Sign, call Landmark Signs to get started on your Monument Sign today!

Experience and innovation have been the back-bone of Landmark Signs for more than 35 years.  Located in Orange and servicing all of California, our services include sign design, sign manufacturing, and sign installation.  Choose our specialized sign expertise to turn your ordinary sign into a Landmark!

3 Reasons Why A Monument Sign is A Must-Have For Your Business

Monuments: our country is obsessed with them.  From coast to coast: the Statue of Liberty in New York to the USS Arizona Memorial in Honolulu, Hawaii.  In fact, the United States has 117 national monuments, with a plethora of them located in our nation’s capital including the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam War Memorial, and the Martin King Luther Jr. Memorial.

What is it about these monuments that are so appealing to us as a country?  We travel thousands of miles across numerous states to gaze up at a large marble, carved statue of a historical figure or a graze our fingers across unknown, inscribed names on black granite wall while other tourists brush past us, bumping shoulders and elbows who are just as anxious as we are to see these same immoveable sights.

There is something awe-inspiring about taking in these monuments.  What they represent, their permanence, the message they send is of a country that has been free for close to 250 years and has overcome these struggles still together.

And that is exactly what a Monument Sign can do for your business and your customers.  It is not merely a large, stone, acrylic, or wood sign with your company’s name etched across it.  It stands for something more; it stands for your business and all that your company has done and will continue to do for your current and future customers.

Here are 3 Reasons to make a Monument Sign a part of your company’s message:

First American Gold Leaf Custom Monument Signs by Landmark Signs

#1: Show the Permanence of Your Business

Much like the Monuments in the United States, Monument Signs more than almost any other sign show your customers and potential customers that you have been here and you are not going anywhere.  

A Store Front Sign can be removed with little hassle, some patch, and a little bit of brush up paint.  A Window Graphic can be peeled off with some elbow grease and paint thinner. But a Monument Sign? That sign isn’t going anywhere.  

Your customers will see a Monument Sign and understand that you are a dependable, solid, and permanent company they can count on.

Brea Corporate Plaza Monument Sign by Landmark Signs

#2: Reach More Local Customers

As we discussed in our blog a few weeks ago, many of your customers come from within 5 miles of where your store is located.  According to Brandon Gaille, a marketing expert, in his article entitled 29 Striking Statistics on Effective Outdoor Signage, “That means the average person will see your sign about twice per day, or about sixty times per month” (Source).

With an elegant Monument Sign, you are sure to reach more local customers who are out there looking and needing to try what only your business can provide them.  They just have to know that you are there.

Redondo Village Monument Commercial Sign by Landmark Signs

#3: Be Easily Located From the Street

We’ve all been here before: we only have 30 minutes on our break to try out a new lunch spot that our coworker recommended.  After getting off the phone with a client later than planned, we rush out to our car, hit too many red lights, and finally arrive at the shopping center with only 15 minutes left to grab a quick bite.  We thought our destination was in this shopping center, but without a Monument Sign to assure us and with so many other hair stylists, grocery stores, and fast food spots in the same center, we can’t seem to find it.  Ugh! Forget it! Taco Bell it is.

Many businesses are located back from the street or in a shopping center with many other competing businesses.  While a store-front sign is almost always necessary, sometimes it is not enough to stand out from your competitors or be easily found by your customers.  Don’t miss out on a potential customer simply because they do know now how to find you. Monument Signs help bring in a customer and keep a customer.

To make a reach more customers, be easily found from the street, and show your customers that you are here to stay, call Landmark Signs to get started on your Monument Sign today!

Check back in with us next week for 3 more reasons why a monument sign is a must-have for your business.

Experience and innovation have been the back-bone of Landmark Signs for more than 35 years.  Located in Orange and servicing all of California, our services include sign design, sign manufacturing, and sign installation.  Choose our specialized sign expertise to turn your ordinary sign into a Landmark!

Why Do Signs Matter? Business Sign Statistics – Signs are Worth the Investment

“Empty pockets never held anyone back. Only empty heads and empty hearts can do that.” – Norman Vincent Peale

Over the last several weeks, we have explored four different sign statistics that have not only theorized, but proven, the benefits of having a quality sign representing your business.  Let’s take a quick trip back to recall what the numbers have shown us about signage.

Commercial 3D Sign Designed, Manufactured and Installed by Landmark Signs.

Business Sign Statistic #1: “More than two thirds (68 percent) of consumers believe a store’s signage is reflective of the quality of its products or services” (View Source).

What Do We Learn? Your sign reflects the quality of your business.  Perhaps you have a sign, but you know that the quality of it does not match the value of the business you provide.  But that does not matter to your customers, because they believe that there is a direct correlation between your sign and your business.

The Benefit of Signage: A quality sign will convince 68 percent more potential customers to try out your product or service.

Gold Leaf Chipped Glue Window Display by Landmark Signs

Business Sign Statistic #2: “Poor signage can deter consumers from entering a store, with over half (52 percent) saying they are less willing to enter a store with misspelled or poorly-made signs” (Source).

What Do We Learn?  It is not enough to have a sign, but it much be a well-made sign that accurately reflects your business and the service it provides.  A poorly-made sign will actually deter your potential customers.

The Benefit of Signage:  A well-made sign, like a Gold Leaf Sign, will prevent over half of your possible customers from walking away instead of stepping inside your store.

Couture Channel Letter Wall Sign by Landmark Signs

Business Sign Statistics #3: “Three out of four consumers saying they have told someone about a store based simply on its signage” (Source).

What Do We Learn?  That customers are referring your store (or even worse, not referring your store) based on what they think of your sign.  This is invaluable because 20-50% of new business is gained due to word-of-mouth.

The Benefit of Signage:  A beautiful sign will bring you more business.

Word & Brown Lobby Sign by Landmark Signs

Business Sign Statistic # 4: “When it comes to local business, a vast majority of what you’ll get comes from people who live within 5 miles of your store. That means the average person will see your sign about twice per day, or about sixty times per month” (Source).

What Do We Learn? Your sign is the first impression.  This may or may not be good news for your business.  Science shows us that these first impressions are usually the ones that last.

The Benefit of Signage:  An elegant sign will not only send a positive initial impression, but will lead to a positive lasting impression.

So What?

You may have read all our last four blogs and reviewed this current blog and completely agreed with everything we have written.  Especially since it is founded on facts, not merely the opinion of a passionate sign designer.

But for many business owners, it comes down to the cost.  And we get that because we too are a business and know that sometimes, decisions have to be made based on money.  If we are going to spend our hard-earned money, it better be worth the investment.

We can tell you that it is.  Because we know it is.  We have built our entire business around this belief.  Don’t just take our word for it.

Let’s once again, go back to the facts.

Business Sign Statistic #5: “A redesigned business sign that is onsite costs just $0.02 per 1000 views and it reaches more of your overall market than any other form of advertising” (Source).

 

Commercial Monument Sign Designed, Manufactured and Installed by Landmark Signs.

 

Yes, a sign is an investment.  We are not going to deny that.  But it is no doubt, a worthy investment, when you look at how little you actually spend in relation to how many views your sign gets.  For every 1,000 impressions, you are only spending 2 cents!

In comparison, when using Facebook ads, it will cost a retail business $6.33 for every 1,000 views of your ad.

Furthermore, For those considering or already using Google AdWords, “the average small business using AdWords spends between $9,000 and $10,000 per month on their Google paid search campaigns. That’s $100,000 to $120,000 per year”(Source).

Online advertising is not only more expensive, but can give the impression of a fleeting business.  Anyone can put an online ad together.  In fact, you do not even need to have a physical business to advertise online.

But business signs, like Monument Signs, send the message of permanence and give the impression of a business that is here to stay.  Your customers can trust that they can depend on you being there for them for years to come.

Looking for your own long-lasting sign?  Call Landmark Signs today! (714) 637-9900

Experience and innovation have been the back-bone of Landmark Signs for more than 35 years.  Located in Orange and servicing all of California, our services include sign design, sign manufacturing, and sign installation.  Choose our specialized sign expertise to turn your ordinary sign into a Landmark!

 

 

Why Do Signs Matter? Business Sign Statistics – Signs Are Your First Impression

 

Stage actor, vaudeville performer, and nationally syndicated newspaper columnist, Will Rogers, said it best when he stated, “You never get a second chance to make a good first impression.”  Based on his success, this is a mantra that he lived by because by the time the 1930’s rolled around, he had made 71 movies, wrote more than 4,000 newspaper columns, and was the highest paid Hollywood film star of his time (Source).  Adored by the public and sought after by directors, editors, and even the world-renown Ziegfeld Follies, Rogers knew how important it was to make a first impression that would turn into a lasting impression.

So what does all of this have to do with your business sign?  You already, no doubt, make a great impression upon your potential clients.  As soon as they enter your business, they are greeted by a warm, friendly receptionist who directs their attention to water or coffee available while they wait.  They happily sip their coffee while flipping through a Star magazine to catch up on who Taylor Swift is dating now in your lobby that feels more like a relaxing, welcoming spa than a cold, matter-of-fact business.  Soon, they are introduced to your best salesman, dressed for sales success in a tailored, navy blue Armani wool and single-breasted suit, and led back to a professional office with a mahogany desk and dark green leather chairs.  You have set up the perfect environment to give your potential customers the first impression that not only are they going to be taken care of, but that you are successful as what you do and your business is here to stay.

A business like that would have a harder time getting their customers to leave than getting them to stay.  However, for many possible customers this is not actually their first impression of you.  Their first impression of you is usually long before you have the chance to wow them with your personality and your professionalism.

Business Sign Statistic # 4: “When it comes to local business, a vast majority of what you’ll get comes from people who live within 5 miles of your store. That means the average person will see your sign about twice per day, or about sixty times per month” (Source).

Gold Leaf Monument Sign Designed and Installed by Landmark Signs Inc.

What this tells us is that many of your potential customers are actually getting their first impression about your company from your sign. Furthermore, they see your sign again and again, which means that whatever first impression they get of your company will most likely be solidified again and again. A study done by Bertram Gawronski, social psychologist and professor of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, found that the “results support the common observation that first impressions are notoriously persistent.”

Think about your sign. In fact, you may even want to step outside for a minute and take a look at your sign.  Remember that much of your business comes from customers who see your sign first and that first impressions are notoriously hard to shake.  Consider what type of first impression is your sign making upon your potential customers. Are you proud of the first impression that your company makes?  Would you enter your own business based on your sign alone?  Does your sign tell of a business that is successful and longlasting?

If your answer to any of these questions is no, it is time to give Landmark Signs a call to make your best first impression. You will never be able to show your customers how valuable your services and products are if they do not even step foot in your door.

Experience and innovation have been the back-bone of Landmark Signs for more than 35 years.  Located in Orange and servicing all of California, our services include sign design, sign manufacturing, and sign installation.  Choose our specialized sign expertise to turn your ordinary sign into a Landmark!

Copyright Landmark Signs Inc 2018

Why Do Signs Matter? Business Sign Statistics – Customers Refer Based on Signage

 

“Word-of-mouth is the primary factor behind 20 to 50 percent of all purchasing decisions” (Source).

In last week’s blog, we briefly touched on the changing role of the marketer from production centered businesses to brand-based strategies and finally to today’s modern consumer-focused industry.

The current consumer is sharp, savvy, and even slightly suspicious of your company initially.  There are many unfortunate instances of businesses making promises to their customers and failing to keep them. In the past, many were powerless to do anything about it because of limited choices or the lack of a platform to express their upsetting experience.  But the tides have turned and now a customer not only has the place to vent their frustrations for all to see (Yelp-a business’s best friend or worst enemy ), they also have more options than ever before.  Which also means that you have more competition than ever before.

Today, the customer is in charge.  Gone are the days of the door-to-door salesman, the convincing catchy jingle (at least not the ones we wish were not stuck in our heads; most of them are worse than the small world song), and intrusive sales calls (why do they always come during dinner?).  They decide if they want to learn about your business, try your business, and whether or not they will recommend it (or strongly advice against your services) to their friends and family.

Think about it?  How often do we try a new company without a recommendation from someone that we trust?

So what does all of this have to do with your business signage?  Well, according to the following statistic, 75% of your customers think it has a whole lot to do with signs.

Business Sign Statistics #3: “Three out of four consumers saying they have told someone about a store based simply on its signage” (Source).

Most businesses are already well aware of the fact that a customer will make a decision whether or not to continue working with you based on their overall experience.  This is why we go above and beyond to make their time at our company the best we possibly can from the friendly greeting as soon as they enter our building to the follow-up calls after they have used our services to make sure we did everything for them we possibly could.  For example, Trader Joe’s actually delivered food to an elderly man who was snowed in after his daughter called worried that he would not have food to endure the storm.  Delivery is not a part of their service.  Talk about amazing customer service! (Read more about other amazing customer services here).

With a quality, custom sign (see what a gold leaf sign can do for your business), you are adding to the customer’s experience from the very start. However, you will never have a chance to impress your customers with your stellar service if they do not give you a try.  For many consumers, their first impression of you is you store front sign, monument sign, or pylon sign (more on that in next week’s blog).    Before they even have the chance to speak with you, they may have already made a decision about your services based solely on your sign.  A poorly-made sign (read more about that here) reflects on the quality of your service.

It is essential that we, as business owners, utilize every resource we have available to create the best customer experience possible, and that starts with our sign.

Copyright Landmark Signs Inc 2018

Why Do Signs Matter? Business Sign Statistics – Poor Signage Deters Customers

“Customer service is the new marketing.” – Derek Sivers, CD Baby

The role of salesmen and marketers has radically transformed over the last century and a half.  For instance, the Industrial Revolution was a time when consumers had the opportunity to buy many products, rather than having to make them themselves.  It was also a time where there were few competitors, so businesses did not have to put a whole lot of effort into convincing their customers that they were the best.  A business’ main focus during this time was their production, not their customer.

Right around the turn of the century and into the 1940’s, competition in the business world increased.  And the focus turned from producing to branding.  Companies took advantage of the newer technologies like the radio, television, and phone to reach their consumers. While the goal was to convince their customers that they were the best, the customers themselves were still not the main focus. Building the ideal brand was the top discussion around the conference room table.

Fast forward to today and not only do businesses have to compete with innumerable competitors, we also have to recognize that our consumers are now the ones in control.  Because they can access information anytime they want through social media and the internet, harassing them with phone calls, emails, and TV ads only alienate them. Jingles won’t do the trick, no matter how catchy.  They do not need more information coming at them trying to convince them that our service or product “Cannot be beat!” Instead, they rely on their own impressions, and the impressions of their friends, to determine whether or not to give a company a try.

The focus of any successful business should not be solely on creating a better product or building a stronger brand.  In today’s marketing industry, it is vital that the customer not only be taken care of, but actually listened to.

Last week we learned that 68% of customers see a direct correlation between a company and its sign.   That is two of out every three customers!  What can be gained from this insight is that a sign is an absolute necessity for any serious business.  Today, we will learn that not only do customers connect the dots between your business and your signage, they also might not even step foot in your door if they do not like what they see.

Business Sign Statistic #2: “Poor signage can deter consumers from entering a store, with over half (52 percent) saying they are less willing to enter a store with misspelled or poorly-made signs” (Source).

It is hard to argue that a sign is not necessary, especially after looking at last week’s blog and the statistics.  However, some companies just stop there.  And really who can blame them.  With all the costs it takes to run a successful company – supplies, advertising, employees – businesses are always looking for ways to cut costs.  Sometimes this can make the difference between being able to pay all of your employees and having to let go of a member of your business family. Being a business ourselves, we understand the importance of staying within the budget.

But as the numbers suggest, your n, should not be on the place where you spend as little as possible.  In fact, since we see that over half of your consumers are less likely to give your business a chance if your sign is poorly made, really, you can’t afford to be cheap with signage.  You have got to make the best first impression possible and for many of your potential customers, your sign is their first impression of your company and how it operates.

We take the time to buy a nice suit, keep a nice haircut, and smile whenever we meet a new customer all in the effort to make the best first impression.  The same attention to detail and quality should be put into your business signs. Investing in a quality sign is an investment in your business.  Not only does putting in the extra effort into a top business sign means that your sign will require less maintenance and last a lot longer (we’re talking 10 years), it will also send the message to your customers that you are the best, you take your business seriously, and you are willing to put in the effort required to produce quality.

Leave it to the sign experts to get your customers in the door with a premium sign.  Once they step inside, we are confident that you can take it from there.

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Copyright Landmark Signs Inc 2018

Why Do Signs Matter? Business Sign Statistics – Signs Reflect Quality of Business

We can debate about which type of signage is best – a store-front sign, a Monument sign, a Pylon sign – and where a sign should go – above your door, along the street, inside your office– but there is one thing that we, here at Landmark Signs, believe is not up for debate: that signage is an absolute necessity for any serious business.  And there are oh so many reasons why this is true: signs make it easier for people to find you, signs let your customers know that you exist, signs market your business without you having to lift a finger.  The list goes on and on, and believe me, we have this list memorized by heart.

But of course we are going to say that, right?  You don’t work in the sign industry for over 40 years without having a serious appreciation for signage.  It is literally in our blood, and our family, with our own owner first learning the trade from his father and then passing it down to his own children.  Wouldn’t you say that might make us a little biased?  Why should you listen to us?

The good news is you don’t have to. We can save our breath and you can save your ears…and time…and energy, because sign salesmen, am I right?  Research has been done asking the consumer directly what they think about signage, its importance, and why (or even if) signs matter.

Over the next few blogs, we will break down some of these enlightening statistics so you, as a business owner, can do what you do best: listen to your customers.  After that, we leave it to you.

Business Sign Statistic #1: “More than two thirds (68 percent) of consumers believe a store’s signage is reflective of the quality of its products or services” (View Source).

­Yep, you read that correctly.  A whopping 68% of consumers see the business sign above the door as a direct reflection of the business inside the door.  That means that 2 out of every 3 customers are judging your company based on the sign.  Which means that you could lose 2 out of every 3 customers if they do not like that they see.

It almost seems surreal.  What does a sign have to do with the quality of a business?  Yes, it lets a customer know that the business is there, but isn’t that enough?  You might even be thinking that a sign is really just an inanimate object that my business didn’t design, manufacture, or install.  It tells nothing of how well we treat our customers, how valuable the service we provide is, or the quality of our product.  It has absolutely nothing to do with my actual business.

But the numbers clearly display that customers feel differently.  And any successful business knows that the customer is always right.  But, even if you are a business that rejects this philosophy, the reality is that a happy customer means repeat business not only from the client, but most likely the new business they bring in when they tell their friends how great you are.  At the end of the day, these customers are paying the bills, and companies cannot risk potentially losing a client, or having them not even step in the door, because of your lack of quality signage.  Let them learn about the quality of your business by impressing them first with the quality of your sign.

The Sign Expert Says: “Why Refurbish an Old Sign? Is it Possible?”

Surprisingly, instead of refurbishing an old sign, many decide to scrap it.  Is that a good idea?  When should that be the alternative?  Can an old sign be successfully made new?

Below we’ll discuss some good reasons to keep an old sign and give you some examples of some of our successful refurbishes.

City Codes

Over time, city codes and ordinances for signs typically change – and not in the favor of the business owner!  Most often the sign allowances get smaller in terms of how many square feet of sign area an owner can have and it’s overall height.

Recently we contracted to remake a shopping center monument sign that had been completely destroyed by and auto – so that no part of it could continue to be used.  In going back to the city it seemed that over the years the code had changed and now, in order to obtain a new permit, the sign had to be made half as big!  We are still negotiating through that one.

If you have a large sign like the Super A Foods shown above (over 45′ tall) its not likely that the city will allow a completely new one nearly as large.  On the other hand, most municipalities do have what is called a “grandfather clause” that allows that as long as you don’t structurally modify a sign and only maintain it and change it cosmetically, you can keep it.

That allowed us to clean and repaint all the surfaces of Super A, completely rewire and re-lamp it’s interior electrical lighting and reface it with new flexible faces.  The new lighting is eco friendly and less energy consuming and costly to operate.  The new faces are flexible and guarantee not to blow out in high winds and framed in non-rusting aluminum.  Though it was not inexpensive, it was probably only about 1/4 the cost of a brand new sign.  And having lasted probably 40 years, it will easily last another 40.  Not bad!

 

Identity

Another reason to keep an old sign is identity.  Sometimes a sign has such a long history and presence that it “becomes” the business in people’s minds.  Perhaps it’s unusual and iconic such as the Peppertree Lane awning sign above.  If the sign is removed and / or changed, that valuable presence in the mind of clients can be lost, causing negative reactions that can harm the business – even if the new sign is “better” or more “fashionable”!

Imagine if you had been used to seeing this lovely awning when doing business for years at Peppertee Lane.  Then one day you come back, only to see this special sign no longer there.  Would you be pleased?  Very possibly not.  You might even experience such disappointment that you would never return.

Instead you should consider refurbishing your old sign and making it look brand new.  On Peppertree Inn, located across the street from the ocean, we were able to make improvements that will make the sign last even longer than the first time.  We completely kept it’s iconic look while replacing the letters with new ones, using all aluminum and stainless steel parts.  Instead of a painted finish as before, the new letters are anodized Gold which outperforms paint every time.  The result is a great looking sign that is better than before and yet causes none of the disappointment that their long term clients may have experienced if we had changed it.

 

Cost

Another issue at stake is cost.  The footings and structure of new signs can cost from 1/3rd to 1/2 the overall price of the sign.  If you have an existing structure that can be reused, it is often better to use it even if you have to drastically modify it.

On DDL above, we had an unusual situation in which the old sign was dated in style and had a security fence placed right over the middle of it!  The city was okay with allowing the same size and  location, and historical identity wasn’t an issue.  We just had to update it and eliminate that odd fencing issue.

So what we did is “sleeve” it.  In other words we manufactured an aluminum framed “sock” that simply slipped down over and completely covered the old sign.  No new structure or footing was necessary.  We also fabricated the back half with a black finish, causing it to “disappear”.  The result?  A more contemporary and handsome monument sign at probably half the cost of a new one or less.

Better Materials

One last thing to consider is that technology has advanced such that the material used in refurbishing old signs can be superior and longer lasting than the original ones!  Less likely to rust or oxidize, many sign paints and metals such as aluminum and stainless steel are much better, readily available and cost effective.  Lighting and electrical has improved, with new LED lighting products that are just as effective and yet drastically less costly in energy.

So if you have an old sign and don’t know what to do with it, consider the above reasons and decide whether refurbishing is might not be the best thing for you.  If you are still unsure, call Landmark Signs at 714-637-9900 or email us at sales@landmarksignsinc.com today and let us show you how your old sign can become a new gem!

Here’s to great signs!

John Myres, The Sign Expert

The Sign Expert Says: “Wall Signs – What You Need to Know”, Blog Four

A great Wall Sign is essential to your business success.

A Wall Sign is a good way to get your business recognized very effectively.  At the very least it can identify you and tell others what you do.  More importantly it can set the tone, telling your potential and existing clients what positive experiences they can expect in doing business with you.  It can sell your business as being superior and preferable to other businesses nearby or in competition with you.  If you have the opportunity to have a good Wall Sign, you would be remiss in passing it up.

But the questions remain.  How much should I spend?  Do I need something great or is “just enough” going to work?  Are there any issues such as codes or regulations that I need to consider?  How do I know what is best for me and what I have to do to get it?

Codes and Regulations

In most metropolitan cities there are specific codes that regulate how large a Wall Sign can be, what it can be made of and where it can be located.  On top of those, there are often “Sign Programs” or documents required by the city from landlords that give more specifics on how signs can be done in developments such as shopping centers and complexes.  And often, apart from a formal Sign Program, owners will have some language in your lease that tells you what you can and cannot do.

So, the first thing that needs to be done is to determine what restrictions there are, either from the city and / or from the property owner.  At this point I’d like to suggest two things:

1. Find an honest and reliable sign company to research and interpret these for you.  Not everyone is an expert in everything so it’s okay to be a great lawyer and not understand the city or landlord regulations in regards to signs.  An experienced sign company should have the ability to find creative and effective ways to get the best possible Wall Sign for you through these obstacles.  If you try this yourself though, you may miss some opportunities that you could not be expected to recognize.

2. Consider finding out first before you lease!  “Location, location, location” is often the first order for many business people, but what good is it if you find what seems to be the perfect place for your business, only to find out after signing the lease that the restrictions for signs are too severe?  You may have a beautiful building in a lovely spot but can’t even sufficiently tell people with signs that you are there.

We at Landmark Signs have many decades of experience in successfully interpreting and finding ways through the maze of regulations to get our clients great Wall Signs.  In fact it’s the first thing we do – check out the codes and landlord restrictions – and then we fight for you to get you the best sign you can have.  We even offer a service to check out the restrictions in advance of your signing a lease, so that you are completely informed before you commit.  Call or email us today and we can help you avoid a potentially bad decision!

The Type and Cost of a Great Wall Sign.

We are of course advocates for signs – it’s how we make a living!  But the facts supported by scientific findings are that there may be no greater, more efficient and cost effective form of business advertising than a good sign!

Especially in these days when “millennials” are traveling less far from home, your potential clients are most likely going to be those nearby, the ones passing by your business right now.  You can spend thousands on a continual basis advertising on the internet, radio or TV and yet most of those impressions are going to people who because of distance will never use you!  But almost every dime you spend on your Wall Sign is being seen by people who can use your services.

Also, a lot can be said about the quality of your business, how much you care and how well you conduct it by your location.  But far more positive things can be expressed by a good, properly designed, correctly executed and maintained Wall Sign.  Since it is “artistic” it can be designed “demographically” like a logo or advertising, to make an intentionally targeted positive impression upon your most likely or most desired client base.  Using the right materials and design, you can tell people that you are “substantial and secure” or “creative and exciting” or “helpful and friendly”, etc.  Before your clients ever enter your door, they can already have an encouraging idea of what to expect from you!

And lastly, though a good Wall Sign can be expensive, it is typically a “one time” cost.  Qualified sign companies will typically make signs that can last 10-20 years or more, with relatively low maintenance.  Comparatively, many other forms of advertising may not cost as much initially, but over the same amount of time those costs will add up many times the price of a good sign.  And since a great Wall Sign may be a more effective way to make yourself known, why not “bite the bullet” if you can and get what really works?

What Landmark Signs can do for you.

As mentioned, at Landmark Signs we have the experience to determine the best way to get a great Wall Sign for you through the codes and regulations.  We also, because of expertise and great “sign knowledge” are able to help you determine what types of designs, colors, typefaces, materials, etc. would be the most effective in making a positive, intentional impression upon your potential clients.  And because we are top-notch, award winning sign designers, we can create a custom sign that’s perfect for you — and with an emphasis on cost effectiveness if you need it!

In manufacturing, we know how to fabricate great signs, using the right materials and processes that last and make the best impressions.  While other sign companies typically give a one year warrantee, Landmark Signs offers warranties for 2-3 years or more!

I encourage you to contact us today and let us work to get you the great Wall Sign you need and deserve.  Call us today at 714-637-9900 or email us at sales@landmarksignsinc.com.

Sincerely,

John Myres, The Sign Expert

johnm@landmarksignsinc.com