A Large & Growing Market

According to research firm Vertical IQ, the sign manufacturing industry consists of about 5,700 firms that employ 75,300 workers and generate about $12.3 billion annually. The industry includes national firms, regional firms, local firms, franchises, and independent operators, among them a substantial number of commercial printers. Florida, home to approximately 1,884 commercial printers is one of the top states for commercial printing in the U.S., alongside California and Texas.

The Important Roles That Signs Play

Due to their ubiquity in modern life, we often forget the important roles signs play serving a variety of functions that enhance communication, safety, navigation, branding, and convenience.

Signs are essential tools for communication and functionality, not just in business but also in residential environments. They not only provide vital information but also enhance the aesthetics and usability of spaces.

What follows is a comprehensive look at the several types of signs and the functions signs of distinct types serve.

Outdoor Signage

• Building Signs: Includes illuminated and non-illuminated logos and lettering to identify a business, organization, or residential community.
• Monument Signs: Large or small, illuminated or non-illuminated, these freestanding signs list the tenants in an office complex or strip mall.
• Parking and Wayfinding Signs: Often metal and freestanding, these signs help direct visitors within parking lots and large campuses or mall complexes.
• Billboards: Comprise a sizable portion of outdoor signage, used extensively for advertising.
• Banners and Flags: Commonly used for temporary promotions and events, this type of signage draws attention and creates excitement at the street level.
• Construction Signs: Used to indicate construction zones, create excitement for new businesses coming soon,  and ensure safety.

Indoor Signage

• Corporate Graphics: This includes 3-dimensional and flat, illuminated and non-illuminated logos, directional signs, wall murals, and office branding.
• Retail Signage: Point-of-purchase displays, wall and window graphics, menu boards, and promotional signs, such as posters, A-frames, and static clings.
• Exhibition and Trade Show Materials: Used for events and industry trade shows.
• Wayfinding Signs: Which help people navigate within buildings and complexes.

Other Types of Signage

• Digital Signage: Becoming increasingly popular for both indoor and outdoor use, offering dynamic content.
• Custom and Specialty Signs: Includes unique designs for specific purposes or businesses.
• Vehicle Wraps and Graphics: Serve as mobile billboards for your business at a fraction of the cost of a highway billboard.

Specific Functions of Signs for Business

Branding and Identity

• Logos and Storefront Signs: Designed to establish the identity of the business and attract customers.
• Consistency: To ensure branding consistency across multiple locations.
• Mission and Values: To share the beliefs and vision of an organization to employees and customers.

Marketing and Advertising

• Promotional Signs: Highlight sales, special offers, and new products.
• Billboards, Vehicle Wraps, and Digital Displays: Reach a wider audience and drive traffic.
• Building Signs: Generate consistent branding and name recognition.

Directional and Navigation

• Interior Signs: Help customers navigate within a store or business complex.
• Exterior Signs: Guide visitors to entrances, exits, and parking areas.

Regulatory and Compliance

• Safety Signs: Indicate emergency exits, fire safety equipment, and hazard warnings.
• Accessibility Signs: Ensure compliance with regulations, such as ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements.
• Licensing: Ensures an organization is registered with the state to conduct business

Informational

• Hours of Operation: Provide essential business information to customers.
• Menu Boards: Display options and pricing in restaurants and cafes.
• Directories: List building tenants and location in large buildings and office complexes.

Interactive and Digital Signage

• Touchscreen Kiosks: Offer self-service options for customers.
• Dynamic Displays: Present real-time updates and engaging content.

Today’s Trends in Sign-making

The craft of sign making is evolving rapidly, with contemporary trends emerging for both business and residential uses. Here are some of the latest trends.

Business Signage Trends

• Digital and Interactive Signage: Businesses are increasingly using digital signs that can display dynamic content, such as promotions, real-time updates, and interactive elements like touchscreens and QR codes.
• LED Lighting: LED lights are popular for their energy efficiency and vibrant display capabilities. They can be customized to change colors and create eye-catching visuals.
• Sustainability: Eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices are becoming more common. Businesses are using recycled materials, solar-powered signs, and energy-efficient lighting to reduce their environmental impact.
• Bold Typography: Custom fonts and bold typography are being used to create unique and memorable signs. This helps businesses stand out and establish a strong brand identity.
• Minimalist Design: Clean, simple designs with ample negative space are trending. These designs focus on clarity and elegance, avoiding clutter and unnecessary elements.
• 3D Metal Signs: Three-dimensional metal signs are gaining popularity for their dynamic and eye-catching appearance. They add depth and personality to branding.

These trends reflect the ongoing evolution of sign making, driven by technological advancements, environmental concerns, and a desire for unique and impactful designs.

If you are interested in exploring professionally made signs for your business or home, click here for commercial printers in Central Florida.