In today’s highly competitive market, signage plays a crucial role in making a business stand out. The right signage not only attracts customers but also communicates professionalism, key information, accessibility, and brand identity. From storefront signs to wayfinding systems, there are countless options to suit the needs of your business.
Let’s explore some of the most impactful types of indoor and outdoor signs and banners and how to choose the best ones for your business.
1. Window Signs
Window signs transform your storefront windows into a dynamic advertising space. From decals and printed signage to full window wraps, they’re an impactful and easy way to communicate your message.
When to Use:
- Retail Stores: Promote sales, new arrivals, or special offers.
- Restaurants: Display menus, specials or upcoming events.
- Service Providers: Showcase your hours, contact information and services.
Sizing Options:
- Small decals: Perfect for subtle branding or messages.
- Full wraps: Cover entire windows for maximum impact.
- Standard: from 18″x24″ to full wall-to-window coverage.
Benefits & Impact:
Window signs grab attention and draw in foot traffic while instantly informing customers. They’re extremely cost-effective and can be quickly updated. They are customizable for advertising and branding and can be tailored to fit your custom spaces and messaging.
2. Wall Signs
Wall signs are versatile options to display your brand name or products, directional information or incorporate decorative elements.
When to Use:
- Interior Spaces: Great for branding conference rooms or reception areas.
- Retail: Highlight product categories or promotional offers.
- Events: Perfect for photo backdrops or informational displays.
Sizing Options:
- Small: Ideal for room labels or logos (12″x18″).
- Large: Statement pieces for branding walls or event spaces (48″x72″).
Benefits & Impact:
Wall signs have wide versatility to fit all types of uses, materials and environments. They elevate the professional aesthetic and are customizable to match your business’s unique branding.
3. Step & Repeat Banners
Step and repeat banners feature a repeating pattern of logos or branding elements, making them ideal for events to keep your brand front and center.
When to Use:
- Events: Popular for red carpet events, trade shows, and photo ops.
- Promotions: Showcase your brand in a professional setting.
- Press Conferences: Provide a branded backdrop for media coverage.
Sizing Options:
- Standard sizes include 8’x8′ or 10’x10′.
- Custom sizes available to fit your specific event space.
Benefits & Impact:
This type of sign maintains high brand visibility keeping your logo in every photo and are customizable to feature logos, tag lines or unique graphics. They are also easy to set up and transport.
4. Retractable Banners
Retractable banners are portable, easy-to-use solutions for indoor events and promotions.
When to Use:
- Trade Shows: Perfect for booth displays.
- Presentations: Add professionalism to meetings and conferences.
- Retail: Highlight promotions or key product features.
Sizing Options:
- Compact: 24″x36″ for tight spaces.
- Standard: 33″x80″ for maximum visibility.
Benefits & Impact:
These banners set up in minutes and are easy to transport. Typically made with high-quality materials so they can be re-used making them highly cost effective.
5. Point-of-Sale (POS) Signs
Point-of-sale signs are strategically placed near checkouts to encourage last-minute purchases or highlight special offers.
When to Use:
- Retail Stores: Boost impulse buys at the checkout.
- Restaurants: Display specials or menu highlights at counters.
- Events: Showcase promotional deals at sales booths.
Sizing Options:
- Small: 8″x10″ tabletop signs.
- Medium: 11″x17″ for counters or displays.
- Large: 24″x36″ for high-visibility checkout areas.
Benefits & Impact:
POS communicates special deals or limited-time offers to increase sales by encouraging additional purchases. They are designed to match your brand and campaign goals.
6. Point-of-Purchase (POP) Signs
Point-of-purchase signs are placed near products to draw attention and highlight key features or benefits.
When to Use:
- Retail Environments: Showcase promotions, product features, or new arrivals.
- Showrooms: Highlight product benefits or specifications.
- Events: Draw attention to featured items at booths, displays or end caps.
Sizing Options:
- Shelf talkers: 4″x6″ for close-up displays.
- Posters: 18″x24″ for mid-range visibility.
- Floor displays: 24″x48″ or larger for high-impact areas.
Benefits & Impact:
POP captures attention and provides information for purchase decisions. It can be used for short-term campaigns and ongoing use and is branded to the product.
7. Interior Signage
Interior signs enhance the branding and functionality of indoor spaces, making them essential for businesses of all sizes.
When to Use:
- Corporate Offices: Brand meeting rooms or direct visitors with wayfinding signs.
- Retail Stores: Highlight sections or promotions.
- Hospitals and Schools: Provide clear directions and room labels.
Sizing Options:
- Small: 6″x9″ room labels.
- Medium: 12″x18″ directional signs.
- Large: 24″x36″ feature walls or branding elements.
Benefits & Impact:
Interior signs improve the look and feel of your space while being highly functional. They provide information, directions for smooth navigation and create a positive user experience. They’re customizable to match interior design and branding.
8. Yard Signs
Yard signs are versatile, portable and cost-effective, perfect for advertising events or services.
When to Use:
- Real Estate: Advertise properties for sale or open houses.
- Events: Promote local events or fundraisers.
- Contractors: Showcase ongoing work at project sites.
Sizing Options:
- Small: 12″x18″ for basic messages.
- Medium: 18″x24″ for increased visibility.
- Large: 24″x36″ for bold, high-impact advertising.
Benefits & Impact:
Yard signs are very affordable for short-term promotions and are easy to move and set up in different locations. They’re available in various sizes with custom branded designs to stand out.
9. ADA Signs
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) signs are designed to ensure accessibility for all individuals, including those with visual impairments. These signs include braille, high-contrast text, and tactile elements to comply with legal standards.
When to Use:
- Public Buildings: Required in facilities like schools, libraries, and government buildings.
- Offices: Necessary for labeling rooms such as restrooms, exits, and conference rooms.
- Healthcare and Hospitality: Crucial for ensuring accessible navigation in hospitals and hotels.
Sizing Options:
- Standard: 6″x8″ for room labels.
- Large: 12″x12″ for directional or informational signs.
Benefits & Impact:
These are used to meet federal compliance requirements, avoiding potential fines or legal issues. They promote a welcoming and accessible environment for all customers and employees and add an element of organization and thoughtfulness to your space.
10. Acrylic Signs
Acrylic signs are sleek, modern, and versatile. Made from durable, lightweight material, they mimic the appearance of glass while offering greater durability and cost-effectiveness.
When to Use:
- Retail Spaces: Perfect for displaying logos or directional information in stores.
- Corporate Offices: Ideal for reception areas or meeting rooms to enhance brand image.
- Healthcare Facilities: Frequently used for clear and professional signage in waiting areas.
Sizing Options:
- Small: 8″x10″ for plaques or logos.
- Medium: 18″x24″ for directories.
- Large: 24″x36″ for feature walls.
Benefits & Impact:
Acrylic signs provide a polished, high-impact professional look that elevates the appearance of any space. They are durable, customizable and weather resistant. They can be cut, printed, or layered with different colors and graphics making them suitable for indoor and some outdoor uses.
11. Banner Signs & Flags
Banners and flags are versatile and eye-catching options for both indoor and outdoor promotions. Whether advertising a sale or decorating an event, these options deliver high visibility.
When to Use:
- Events and Promotions: Perfect for grand openings, trade shows, and seasonal sales.
- Outdoor Advertising: Great for grabbing attention from pedestrians and drivers alike.
- Temporary Signage: Ideal for short-term use, like announcing special events.
Sizing Options:
- Small: 2’x4′ for tabletop or tight spaces.
- Medium: 3’x6′ for standard promotions.
- Large: 8’x10′ for large-scale events.
Benefits & Impact:
Banners and flags create high-impact for short-term campaigns and are very affordable. They’re available in various sizes and materials to fit your needs and are easy to transport and set up.
12. Blade Signs
Blade signs extend perpendicularly from a building or wall, making them easy to spot from a distance. They’re often used in busy areas to stand out among other storefronts.
When to Use:
- Retail and Cafes: Ideal for grabbing attention on crowded streets.
- Historic Districts: Adds a classic and timeless aesthetic to businesses.
- Shopping Centers: Helps customers easily locate your store.
Sizing Options:
- Small: 12″x18″ for simple displays.
- Medium: 18″x24″ for storefront signs.
- Large: 24″x36″ for prominent branding.
Benefits & Impact:
Blade signs increased visibility to stand out in heavy foot traffic areas. They are durable and can be designed to match your brand’s unique style while withstanding weather conditions.
13. Channel Letters
Channel letters are three-dimensional, illuminated signs that can be customized to prominently display your brand’s name or logo.
When to Use:
- Storefronts: Ideal for showcasing your brand in shopping centers or standalone locations.
- Corporate Buildings: Adds a professional and polished look to your office exterior.
- Malls: Ensures your brand stands out among competitors.
Sizing Options:
- Small: 12″x24″ for compact storefronts.
- Medium: 24″x36″ for standard retail spaces.
- Large: 48″x72″ for maximum visibility.
Benefits & Impact:
These signs provide high visibility during the day and night thanks to internal lighting. They’re custom designed in your brand’s fonts, colors and sizes to enhance your brand’s image and credibility.
Use Different Types of Signs to Promote & Enhance Your Business with Help from United GMG
At United GMG, we specialize in creating high-quality signage tailored to your business’s unique needs. Whether you’re looking for interior or exterior uses, window signs, wall graphics, step and repeat banners, or ADA-compliant signage, our team is here to help.
With free consultations, eco-friendly material options and quick turnarounds, we make it easy to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to get started!
