Your Guide to Outdoor Signage that Works

Digital ads may come and go, but outdoor signage sticks. Sometimes, quite literally.

Whether it's a high-street banner, a branded pavement sign outside your café or custom outdoor advertising boards at a construction site, signage still does the heavy lifting when it comes to getting eyes on your business. Not only is it both direct and bold, but most importantly, it is always on.

But here's the kicker: not all signs are created equal. The difference between a sign that gets noticed and one that gets ignored? It's all in the details: the material, the design, the message. Everything matters.

Why Outdoor Signs still work (and always will)?

You might think digital ads have taken over completely. But that isn't the case. The UK's out-of-home (OOH) advertising sector continues to thrive. In 2024, OOH revenue reached a record £1.4 billion, marking a 7.7% year-on-year increase. This growth underscores the enduring effectiveness of outdoor signage in capturing consumer attention and influencing purchasing decisions.

What are the best materials for outdoor signage?

When it comes to outdoor signage, one size doesn't fit all. Different locations, weather conditions and campaign goals demand different materials. And getting that choice right can make all the difference between weatherproof signs for businesses that sing and those that don't.

One of the biggest benefits of buying durable outdoor signage is the sheer durability of the materials available. You need custom signage that can not only shout out your brand but also handle the UK's ever-changing weather, all without fading, tearing or peeling. That's where we come in.

• PVC is our go-to for banners. Strong, weather-resistant and easy to maintain. It holds up brilliantly in rain and wind and its smooth surface means your design stays sharp and vibrant for the long haul.
• Mesh PVC works wonders in windy locations. The breathable structure allows wind to pass through, reducing strain and helping your banners stay put.
• Vinyl is waterproof, fade-resistant and perfect for windows or smooth surfaces. Vinyl is a smart pick for seasonal promotions or short-term campaigns, especially when you need something easy to apply and remove, such as window stickers.
• Blueback paper, otherwise known for billboard and bus stop posters, has a blue backing that prevents show-through. Because of this, blueback paper offers clean, vibrant graphics that stand out in any lighting.
• Aluminium composite panels, like Dibond, are the heavyweight champions of outdoor signage. Rust-proof and incredibly durable, they are ideal for long-term use in commercial or industrial settings.
• Correx is your go-to for cost-effective, lightweight signage. Whether a property sign or a temporary display board, it offers great print quality without breaking the bank.

How do you design effective outdoor signage?

Effective signage is more than just a pretty picture; it's about clear communication and visual impact. To ensure your message resonates, consider these key design principles:

• Keep it simple: Aim for concise messaging. A good rule of thumb is the '3 x 5 rule'. It's much less complicated than it sounds: Use either three lines of text with five words each or five lines with three words each. This ensures your message is quickly digestible.
• Readable Fonts: Opt for sans-serif fonts like Arial or Helvetica, which are easier to read from a distance. Avoid overly decorative fonts that can hinder legibility.
• High Contrast: Ensure there's a strong contrast between text and background. For instance, black text on a white background or white text on a dark background enhances readability.
• Strategic Placement: Position your signage at eye level for pedestrians or at appropriate heights for drivers, ensuring it is easily visible to your target audience.

For more detailed guidance on designing accessible signage, the UK government's accessibility blog offers practical tips you can follow, ranging from accommodating the visually impaired to making your signage more universal.

How to build a strategy around your outdoor signage?

Your durable outdoor signage should be an integral component of your overall marketing strategy. Here's how to ensure it aligns seamlessly:

• Consistent Branding: Maintain uniformity in colours, fonts, and messaging across all marketing materials to reinforce brand identity.
• Clear Call to Action: Encourage your audience to take the next step, whether it's visiting your website, entering your store, or scanning a QR code.
• Regular Updates: Keep your signage content fresh by updating it to reflect seasonal promotions, new products, or upcoming events.

Integrating traditional signage with digital marketing efforts can amplify your reach and create a cohesive brand experience.

Signage remains a powerful tool in your marketing arsenal. By selecting durable materials, adhering to clear design principles, and integrating your signage into a broader strategy, you can create impactful messages that resonate with your audience and drive results.

Explore our full range of signage solutions to find the perfect fit for your next campaign.