New Signage Part of Bigger Picture
How Much Does a Sign Cost, Signage Tips“Regardless of how and why new signage regulations are implemented, change is hard,” said Metro Sign & Awning Owner Tom Dunn.
Businesses in Redmond, OR have voiced their frustration at being required to remove signs that were ruled non-compliant in 2008 when their Downtown Overlay District was created. In many ways, it’s similar to the Downtown Waltham Partnership, although the Storefront Improvement Program (SIP) here in MA was pretty business-friendly.
Change: Some Pain, Lots of Gain
When a major shopping district overhaul is underway, everyone focuses on the new look. Quickly, the focus turns to required changes in behavior – thanks to altered traffic patterns, new businesses, hours, and rules.
In the case of the Downtown Waltham Partnership, businesses got significant help with the design, purchase and installation of new signs. Paris Eyecare was the first to get a grant for its new signage, and several other new signs quickly followed.
Little Changes Sometimes Enough to Comply
When businesses are required to change exterior signage to be in compliance with new ordinances or new developments, there’s often more room for discussion than is apparent. Retrofitting or redesigning an older sign, for example, is often less expensive for the business and such changes are frequently approved by municipal planners.
And, while being in compliance with regulations is important, Dunn urges business owners to focus on the bigger picture.
New Signs Do More Than Satisfy Regulations
There are some very real advantages to installing new signs – energy savings and better visibility are the most obvious. More importantly, though, a new sign that’s more attractive and more accurately reflects the business’s offerings can also boost business, and profits, almost immediately upon installation.
“When you need to replace a business sign, don’t think ‘how can I do this as inexpensively as possible?,’” Dunn said. “Think instead, ‘what can a new sign do for my business?’”
Start with a little brainstorming and visit our ROI calculator to see how a new sign – even one you weren’t planning on – can enhance your business.