In the busy world of brick and mortar business, grabbing the attention of people walking by is everything. While digital marketing gets a lot of hype, one of the most powerful and cost effective tools is right on the sidewalk. We’re talking about sandwich board signs.
These simple, portable signs are your 24/7 salesperson, working to turn passersby into loyal customers. A great sandwich board sign does more than just announce your name; it showcases your brand’s personality, advertises specials, and directly boosts foot traffic. Let’s explore how to make this classic marketing tool work for you.
Why Your Business Needs a Sandwich Board Sign
Think of a sandwich board sign as a friendly handshake for your storefront. It’s the first point of contact for many potential customers. The numbers show just how powerful that first impression can be.
Studies reveal that a huge number of consumers, between 54% and 76%, have walked into a store for the first time simply because a sign caught their eye. Even better, about 68% of those people have made a purchase after a sign sparked their interest.
Beyond just grabbing attention, on premise signs are incredibly cost effective. According to a Small Business Association study, they deliver impressions for roughly $7.39 per 1,000 views. This makes sandwich board signs one of the most affordable advertising methods available. They are a small investment with a potentially massive return.
Choosing the Right Type of Sandwich Board Signs
Not all sandwich board signs are created equal. The style and material you choose say a lot about your brand. Investing in a quality sign reflects the quality of your products and services, a belief held by more than two thirds of consumers.
Material and Durability Matter
An outdoor sign has to stand up to the elements. A warped, faded, or rusted sign can actively discourage people from entering your store.
For this reason, it’s crucial to choose weather resistant materials. Powder coated aluminum and steel are excellent choices because the coating creates a protective finish that shields the metal from moisture, preventing rust and corrosion. Aluminum is a fantastic option for wet or humid climates since it is naturally resistant to rust. A sign made from durable materials will look polished for years, saving you money on replacements.
Common Styles to Consider
There are a few popular styles of sandwich board signs to choose from:
Chalkboard Signs: These offer a rustic, DIY feel and can be updated easily. However, they can look messy if your handwriting isn’t neat, and chalk can run in the rain.
Poster Holder Signs: These A frames have a slot or cover for printed posters. They are great for detailed graphics but require you to print new posters for every promotion.
Changeable Letter Signs: Modern and clean, these signs use magnetic letters or peg letters. They are incredibly easy to update with new messages while always looking sharp and professional.
For a durable and minimalist option, consider the classic A-Frame Sign. It combines timeless design with robust, powder coated aluminum construction, ensuring your message always looks its best.
What to Write on Your Sandwich Board Sign for Maximum Impact
Your sign’s message is your chance to connect with people in a few short seconds.
Keep it Short and Readable
Legibility is key. People walking by only have a moment to read your sign, so the message needs to be clear and concise. Use large, clean fonts and a high contrast color scheme (like dark text on a light background). A good rule of thumb is to have one inch of letter height for every ten feet of viewing distance.
Get Creative and Show Personality
Don’t be afraid to have fun with your sandwich board signs. A witty joke, a clever pun, or a beautiful drawing can make people stop, smile, and remember your business. In fact, three out of four consumers have told someone about a business just because its signage was interesting. A witty or visually appealing sign is very likely to be photographed and shared on social media, giving you free advertising that reaches far beyond the sidewalk.
Practical and Promotional Messages
Of course, sandwich board signs are also perfect for promotions. Use them to announce:
Daily specials or a new menu item
Happy hour details
A weekend sale or promotion
New product arrivals
Simple directions, like “Entrance Around the Corner”
Best Practices for Using Sandwich Board Signs
Once you have the perfect sign, using it correctly will maximize its effectiveness.
Strategic Placement
Place your sign directly in the path of foot traffic where it’s most visible, but be sure not to block the sidewalk or create a hazard. It’s also wise to check your local city regulations, as some areas may have rules or require permits for sidewalk signs.
Maintain a Professional Look
Your sign is a reflection of your business. Make sure it’s always clean, spelled correctly, and in good condition. Research has shown that about half of all consumers have been discouraged from entering a store because of a poorly made or error filled sign. A clean, quality sign builds trust and confidence.
Keep Your Branding Consistent
Your sandwich board signs should feel like a part of your brand. Using your brand’s colors, fonts, and logo helps build recognition. Consistency is powerful; using a signature color can increase brand recognition by up to 80%. A cohesive look across all your touchpoints feels intentional and professional.
For businesses looking to create this unified feel, pair your sidewalk sign with an in‑store Menu Board for a seamless look. Alternatively, opt for a quick‑change Magnetic Letter Menu Board to keep specials and pricing consistent with your exterior messaging.
Investing in Quality: Finding the Perfect Sign
A well crafted sandwich board sign is an investment in your brand’s visibility and reputation. By choosing a sign made from durable, high quality materials, you ensure your business always puts its best foot forward. Brands that specialize in design forward, ready made solutions offer a great alternative to expensive custom fabrications.
These signs are designed with the needs of busy cafes, shops, and studios in mind. For example, the George & Willy A-Frame Sign is not only weather resistant but also lightweight (weighing about 8.8 pounds) and foldable, making it easy to carry and store at the end of the day. Explore the Rounded Sidewalk Sign to find a design that perfectly captures your brand’s aesthetic. For maximum visibility on wider streets, consider the Large Sidewalk Sign.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sandwich Board Signs
What is another name for a sandwich board sign?
Sandwich board signs are also commonly called A frame signs, sidewalk signs, or pavement signs.
Are sandwich board signs effective?
Absolutely. Studies show that a majority of consumers have entered a store based on its signage alone. They are a highly effective, low cost tool for increasing foot traffic and sales.
Do I need a permit for a sandwich board sign?
This depends entirely on your local city or municipality. It is always a good idea to check local ordinances to ensure you are compliant with sidewalk advertising regulations.
How do I make my A frame sign windproof?
Choosing a sign with a sturdy build and some weight is the first step. Some businesses use sandbags or other weights on the lower bars of the sign for added stability on windy days.
What is the best material for outdoor sandwich board signs?
Powder coated aluminum or steel are among the best choices. The powder coating provides a durable, weather resistant finish that prevents rust and keeps the sign looking great for a long time.
How much do sandwich board signs cost?
Prices can vary widely, from inexpensive plastic models to premium, design focused signs. While budget options exist, investing in a durable, well designed sign often provides better long term value and a more professional appearance.
