Signs manufactured in London. Designed, fabricated and installed from our own factory. For national brands and the shop on your high street.Signs manufactured in London. Designed, fabricated and installed from our own factory. For national brands and the shop on your high street.

Customers often approach us when they are in the process of planning new signage for their business and ask about the materials used for shop signs. While functionality is essential, it is equally crucial for the sign to have an appealing appearance, catch the attention of passers-by, and entice them to enter your shop. The materials chosen should enhance brand colours, logos, and other information while being durable. Even if the interior of your shop is exceptional, a poorly designed sign outside could cost you business.

We understand the significance of selecting a suitable material for your sign. It showcases your business and brand and ensures that the sign maintains its fresh appearance for years to come, regardless of weather conditions. Below, we describe some of the most commonly used materials for shop signs and a guide to help you make an informed decision.

Acrylic:

Acrylic is a highly popular choice for quality signage, especially for shops located in large complexes or shopping centres. It is very resistant to scratches and easy to clean. It can exhibit vibrant and striking colours, making it ideal for 3D signage that helps your logo or shop name stand out. Acrylic is also flexible, durable, and transparent, perfect for backlit signage.

Correx:

Correx, also known as corrugated plastic or fluted polypropylene, is made from a durable material with tiny channels that give it flexibility and ease of bending. It can be described as an all-weather plastic cardboard. Correx signs, such as sales or estate agent boards, are often used for temporary indoor and outdoor shop signage. They are easy to recycle, inexpensive, strong, and lightweight.

Aluminium:

Aluminium signs come in various forms. Brushed aluminium provides an attractive metallic finish and is a good choice for wayfinding signs. This type of sign is corrosion-proof, water-resistant, and offers long-lasting outdoor protection. It is also popular for indoor signs due to its lightweight, toughness, and durability. Painted aluminium signs provide all the benefits of brushed aluminium but with a smooth, painted finish. They are lightweight, sturdy, easy to clean and highly durable. Durable aluminium composite material (ACM) clad material is sometimes used for larger panel signage. It is thin, perfect for outdoor signage, and consists of two coil-coated aluminium sheets bonded to a non-aluminium core.

Foamex:

Foamex is a lightweight PVC foam sheet with a high-quality, smooth finish. It is suitable for indoor and outdoor use and is highly versatile and economical. This material is often used in restaurants, cafes, and bars and is available in various colours, allowing you to maximize your design. When applied to hoarding, it can create a 3D effect and help your signage stand out.

Vinyl:

Vinyl is a cost-effective, bright, and colourful material frequently used for supporting information, such as contact details and opening times, rather than for the main panel. It is applied using adhesive and allows for easy changes when needed.

Traditional materials: In addition to the aforementioned modern signage materials, some people prefer more traditional options, each with its benefits:

Steel and stainless steel are highly resistant to corrosion, durable, and versatile, often used for heavy-duty exterior signage.

Wood is perfect for outdoor, high-end fascias and appeals to those who prefer a traditional aesthetic that blends well with the surroundings.

Glass is weatherproof, easy to clean, and works effectively when a clean and clear look is desired, particularly for external use.

Stone provides a natural and traditional appearance. It is hard-wearing and instils a sense of quality and permanence in passers-by.

Cardboard is easy to hang, lightweight, and affordable. It serves as a perfect solution for temporary indoor signage. It is advantageous when the message needs to be changed frequently, such as for sales offers or weekly promotions.

Metal (especially powder-coated aluminium) and tempered acrylic resist weathering well.

Why Choose Personalised Shop Signs in the UK? A good quality sign can act as a sales representative, an advertisement, a signifier of trust, a wayfinding landmark, and more. Whether you’re walking down your local high street, driving along the motorway or visiting a business park, you’ll see plenty of outdoor signage and other business signs installed with that goal.

Most businesses will have some signage, so how can yours stand out from the crowd (especially from your competitors?)

Site identification signs: An example of this could be an outdoor sign, such as a fascia which acts as the shopfront of your office building or retail store. It can be illuminated and works best when big, bold, clear and on-brand.

Safety signage: This is a legal obligation for all industries, from construction to hospitality, though their specific requirements will vary. Your facilities management and health and safety officers must ensure that fire escapes, hazards, first aid kits and so on are clearly labelled and checked regularly.

Vehicle wraps: A car or van wrap is a fantastic way to showcase your business on the move – they’re also non-permanent, so it’s easy to update the graphic when you have a rebrand or implement a new marketing campaign. Learn more about vehicle wrapping.

Wall and window graphics: Similar to vehicle wrapping, wall and window graphics are a fast and effective way to add bold design and logos to a building. They can also be easily removed with heat, making them low-risk and highly effective.

Design: Colours, fonts, images and composition can all significantly affect your business sign’s effectiveness. Yet the design of a vehicle wrap will be very different to a fascia sign, for example. Always choose contrasting colours so your logo and message are clear, and make it fit for purpose. An outdoor sign placed near trees might look very different to wall graphics inside a company office on a white wall. However, they should always be consistent with your brand.

Materials: There are many ways to add interest to your business sign and make it stand out. A metal sign can be embossed, subtly adding a 3D effect to selected words or images. Similarly, illuminated signs are perfect if you’re a customer-facing business that operates into the evening or wants to encourage people to interact with a particular piece of messaging, such as a map.

Location: Think carefully about where you place your sign. For a fascia, your choices will be limited. But if you’re investing in another type of outdoor signage, specific locations will work better than others. Just like the design, the right option will depend on its purpose, so think carefully about what action you want people to take after reading your sign, and put it in a position which makes it as easy as possible.

Creating the perfect sign can be challenging. We invest in the latest technology and training to ensure our team can help you design and install eye-catching business signage.

Learn more about our range of business signs online.

Why Choose Personalised Shop Signs in the UK? Whether you’re a well-established business or just starting, signs and graphics are crucial in building your brand and creating a positive customer experience. A comprehensive sign plan is essential as it helps your business stand out from competitors and attract new customers. A sign and graphics strategy should be integrated into your marketing plan to ensure consistency and effectiveness.

Why does your business need signs? It’s essential to appreciate the impact of signage on your business. A well-designed sign can be the first point of contact with potential customers, making a lasting impression. Here are some reasons why your business should have a strategic signage plan:

Signs are a cost-effective form of advertising.

They introduce your business to passersby who may need to become more familiar with it.

Signs work 24/7 to promote your organization.

Wayfinding signs help people locate your business among competitors.

Signs incorporating your logo create brand recognition.

How to develop an effective signage plan:

Put your plan in writing and commit to regularly reviewing and measuring its performance.

Set specific metrics to monitor the success of your plan.

Create a budget for interior and exterior signage and consider consulting with a professional sign and graphics team to determine the best strategy.

Consider the unique needs of your business and the messages you want to convey.

Plan for the customer experience you want to create and choose impactful and creative signs and visual graphics accordingly.

For example, a construction company may focus on wayfinding and safety signage. At the same time, a boutique may incorporate colourful point-of-purchase signs in its strategy.

Common types of signs businesses need:

Digital signs and kiosks

Wayfinding signs

Safety and emergency signs

Street banners for advertising

Promotional signs and posters

Dimensional logos

Vehicle wraps

Building directories

Consider the details and budget: Allocate a budget for your exterior signs and graphics as part of your overall marketing budget. Signs and graphics should be seen as an investment in your brand. Pay attention to details such as permits and ongoing maintenance requirements. Familiarize yourself with local signage guidelines and work with a professional to determine the most cost-effective approach for achieving your goals.

Creating memorable signs and graphics: Effective signage helps people notice and remember your brand. To make your signs stand out, consider the following tips:

Think creatively and be bold in your design choices.

Use vibrant colours, relevant context, and impactful installations.

Ensure optimum lighting and visibility for maximum impact.

Explore digital options like kiosks, LED signs, and digital menu boards.

Common signage mistakes to avoid: To ensure your signage strategy is successful, steer clear of these common mistakes:

Rushing into design and implementation without careful planning.

Including excessive or insufficient information on your signs.

Using designs, colours, or fonts that don’t align with your brand or message.

Attempting to blend in with the surrounding environment instead of standing out.

Cutting costs by using cheap materials that won’t withstand the test of time or environmental conditions.

Choose Personalised Shop Signs by developing a well-planned signage design strategy, your business can create visually appealing and informative signs representing your brand and its mission. Effective signage is an investment that can provide long-term value for years to come.

Work with professionals, like those at SIGN GROUP , who understand your business and can offer visual ideas to help you achieve your unique goals.

Choose Personalised Shop Signs in the UK. Effective signs for small businesses go beyond just providing directions to customers and prospects – they help convey your story and business. The graphics should be as unique as the brand or organization they represent.

During an unprecedented pandemic and lockdown period, we gained a new appreciation for the importance of small businesses. They form the backbone of our communities and contribute to our sense of normality. As we move forward stronger than before, your business must maximize its reach. Here are 7 recommended business sign ideas to get you started:

1 – Monolith and Totem Signs:

These signs are often the first ones people see when approaching your business. Placed at entryways of large properties and shopping areas, monolith and totem signs can be made from various materials such as wood, metal, or foam. Use this opportunity to create a memorable first impression by incorporating branding elements and ensuring visibility and readability.

2 – Illuminated Signs:

LED signs are energy-efficient and visible at any time of the day or night. Using illuminated framed graphic displays creates an innovative and impactful way to promote products and services. Digital signs and displays can be easily personalized and programmed, making them a versatile addition to your overall signage plan. Consider integrating QR codes and interactive maps to help visitors find their way.

3 – Banners and Flags:

Banners are a versatile way to convey your brand message. Whether they are large-scale, adorning the side of a building, or smaller, hanging from a fence, banners can be strategically placed to attract attention. Feather flags, which are durable and weather-resistant, are perfect for indoor or outdoor use. Line a heavily trafficked road or place them near a parking entrance to showcase offerings or promotions while directing traffic to your business.

4 – Window Graphics and Lettering:

Window graphics are removable and changeable, adding a “wow” factor and attracting attention. Opt for full wraps, partial window graphics, or unique decals that complement your decor and branding. Frosted or perforated vinyl can provide privacy and regulate heat and direct sunlight. Window lettering can effectively communicate business hours, sales, and safety policies.

5 – Floor Graphics and Mats:

Often overlooked, the floor needs to be more utilized. Well-positioned and well-designed floor graphics can effectively promote products or direct customers to specific sections of your store or office. They can also guide foot traffic and enhance flow. Custom-printed floor mats extend branding and provide a unique way to welcome customers and visitors.

6 – Pavement Signs and A-Frames:

Make the most of the space around your business with branded A-frame signs and pavement graphics. A-frames are freestanding and easily movable, making them perfect for displaying posters highlighting current sales and promotions. Concrete illustrations can help with wayfinding and directing foot traffic. They are also ideal for events and can be removed afterwards without damaging the surface beneath.

7 – Vehicle Graphics:

Maximize your reach by branding your company vehicles with vehicle graphics and wraps. From full wraps to lettering and window graphics, your company vehicle becomes a moving advertisement. Include easy-to-read contact information and use a design that conveys your offerings. Vehicle graphics are not limited to cars – you can wrap any vehicle that provides exposure for your company. For example, property managers can place graphics on golf buggies or community buses, while restaurants can wrap catering delivery vans.

Regardless of your business size or budget, there are numerous incredible ways to utilize business signs. The possibilities are endless, and the only limit is your imagination. Countless options exist for small business signage that identifies your location, captures attention, and maximizes your brand reach to drive growth. For assistance in creating the best signs and graphics for your business, contact your local Sign Group.

Illuminated signs are an effective way to make your business stand out and attract attention. At our company, we specialize in creating illuminated signs and offer diverse options to suit your needs. With various materials, styles, and designs available, we can customize illuminated signs to match your brand aesthetic.

Here are a few examples of the illuminated sign options we provide:

Lightboxes and Flexi face signs: These signs utilize a box-like structure with illuminated graphics or flexible face material to create an eye-catching display.

Letters with halo illumination: This style features individual letters or logos with backlighting that creates a halo effect, adding depth and visibility.

Fret-cut logos with internal illumination: With this option, intricate logos or designs are cut out of a solid panel, allowing interior lighting to shine through, resulting in a striking visual effect.

Pencil/trough lights and spotlights: These types of illuminated signs utilize focused lighting to highlight specific areas or features, adding emphasis and enhancing visibility.

No matter what your requirements are, we are here to assist you. Feel free to contact us for a no-obligation quotation. Our team is ready to discuss your needs and provide you with the perfect illuminated sign solution for your business.

Choose Personalised Shop Signs. Regarding illuminated signage, there are two main distinctions between a lightbox and a flex face sign. Let’s explore each option:

Lightboxes: Lightboxes are typically constructed with an aluminium frame that houses LED lights. The front of the frame is covered by an acrylic panel, onto which the graphics are printed. When the lights are turned on, the illumination spreads throughout the entire acrylic panel, highlighting the details, colours, and graphics on the face. There may be joints in the acrylic panel on the front for larger lightboxes. In some cases, these joins may be visible when the lights are on. Lightboxes are a fantastic solution for various businesses, such as social clubs, takeaway shops, and estate agents. However, you have concerns about the visibility of the join. In that case, it may be worth considering a flex face sign and investing more in your project.

Flex Face Signs: Flex face signs offer a different approach. These signs utilize a flexible PVC material stretched tightly over an aluminium frame. The graphics are printed directly onto the flexible face material. The advantage of a flex face sign is that it provides a seamless appearance without any visible joins, even in larger sizes. That makes it an ideal choice for businesses seeking a clean, uninterrupted presentation for their illuminated signage.

Consider your specific needs and budget when deciding between a lightbox and a flex face sign. If the visibility of the joint is a concern, opting for a flex face sign may be a worthwhile investment to achieve a seamless and visually appealing illuminated sign.

Flex face signs are an excellent choice for larger illuminated signs. While they share similarities with light boxes, the key difference lies in the face of these signs.

Flex face signs feature a printed skin stretched tightly over the aluminium frame, similar to a drum skin. This skin is held in place by hidden clips along each edge of the sign. This unique design offers several advantages:

Seamless appearance: Since flex face signs utilize a single printed skin, large distances can be covered without visible joins. It creates a seamless and visually appealing display.

Easy graphics replacement: If you need to update or change the graphics on the sign, you only need to replace the skin rather than the entire sign. That makes maintenance and updates more cost-effective and efficient.

Flex face signs are particularly impressive when used as large-scale LED signs. Whether installed on a business building, mounted high on an external office wall, or positioned across the entrance of your premises, these signs make a bold statement.

Choose Personalised Shop Signs in the UK. We provide a highly detailed proof before manufacturing to ensure your design is accurately represented and meets your expectations.

Choose flex face signs for their versatility, seamless appearance, and ease of graphics replacement. They are an excellent option for businesses seeking impressive illuminated signage on a larger scale.

Illuminated signs can be an incredibly effective way to make your business stand out. One popular option is the use of a box-shaped sign with LEDs inside. Imagine a rectangular sign fixed to the wall of a shop. Now, imagine cutting out your business name and logo from the front of the sign. When you turn on the LED illumination, the light will shine through the cut-out letters and logo, creating an eye-catching effect. That is known as a sign with a fret cut logo or letters. We utilize lasers and machinery to cut out the logos and letters to achieve this precisely. We then apply an acrylic sheet inside the sign box and seal it to prevent water damage. The result is a durable, long-lasting illuminated sign that delivers your message effectively.

One of the advantages of using high-quality LEDs for illumination is that they are energy-efficient and cost-effective to run. Unlike older fluorescent tube signs, they won’t require frequent replacement. It makes illuminated signs an excellent choice for shops, businesses, and companies wanting their brand to stand out.

Push Through – Illuminated Signs Another option in high-end signage is using push-through letters and logos with internal illumination. That takes the concept of fret cut signs to the next level. With push through letters, the signage becomes even more visually striking. The letters and logos are manufactured from high-quality materials and provide a classy and elegant look, particularly when illuminated at night or in dark evenings. Fret cut and push-through signs offer unique and visually appealing options for illuminated custom signs.

The choice ultimately depends on the desired aesthetic and the level of sophistication you want to achieve for your signage.

An Affordable Lighting Solution for Signs Trough lights, also known as pencil lights, are a cost-effective way to illuminate your signage and increase its visibility. These lights are often installed separately from the sign itself, making them a convenient option that can be added at a later date.

Choose Personalised Shop Signs. You have likely seen these tube-like lights positioned either above or below shop signs. They emit light that shines back towards the signage, creating an illuminated area that is easily visible across the wall. Trough lights offer a budget-friendly lighting option and are suitable for various applications. However, they are particularly well-suited for shop and office signs.

Modern signage lighting primarily includes LED illumination, fluorescent lighting, neon signs, and backlit signs. Each type serves unique purposes, providing varying levels of brightness, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal.

Businesses can enhance energy efficiency by choosing LED lighting options, which reduce energy consumption by up to 75% compared to traditional lighting. Opting for energy-efficient designs and technologies also minimizes maintenance costs and environmental impact.

In the past few years, you’ve likely invested in new technology to boost efficiency, save costs, and increase versatility. Now, it’s time to consider refreshing your signage to leverage those benefits.

Digital signage offers a range of options for displaying text, graphics, and images, much like traditional signs such as banner stands or building signs. However, digital signage utilises LED screens to showcase dynamic content instead of being printed on materials like textiles or plastic or engraved.

Digital signs are incredibly versatile and powerful marketing and sales tools. By combining hardware with technology, they deliver engaging content that includes motion and interactivity. Some common types of digital signage include digital displays, kiosks, menu boards, posters, and interactive screens with point-of-sale functionality.

Interactive screens, in particular, offer practical solutions for various tasks while effectively showcasing your brand. They can greet visitors, prompt check-ins, facilitate restaurant order-taking, and create immersive experiences in art galleries, museums, or retail environments. With the ability to easily update graphics and content, interactive screens can adapt to your changing needs over time.

Here are the top five advantages of using digital signage:

Video and moving image: Unlike traditional signs, digital screens are perfect for displaying video content, such as showreels, adverts, or instructional videos, making your communications more engaging.

Customisable: With one LED screen, you can instantly upload new graphics, text, or moving images, allowing for easy updates in case of branding changes or information edits.

Quick to update: Unlike traditional printing processes with lead times, digital signage can be updated instantly using complementary software, ensuring your content stays fresh and relevant.

Interactive: Digital signage provides the unique advantage of interactivity. Interactive kiosks, for example, streamline self-check-ins, reducing staff administrative time while creating engaging customer experiences.

Constant innovation: At SIGN GROUP , we strive to provide customers access to the latest sign-making technology. By investing in digital signage now, you’ll be at the forefront of new developments and upgrades.

Discover more about our range of interactive digital signage and explore the possibilities for enhancing your brand presence and engaging your audience.

When embarking on the journey of opening your shop, there are several vital steps to consider. You’ve laid the groundwork, found the perfect location, and prepared your interior and inventory. The next task on your list is putting up your shop sign and getting ready to welcome customers. However, one question that often arises is whether planning permission is required for a shop sign.

Why is a shop sign important? A shop sign serves multiple purposes. It helps people locate your shop and understand what you offer and plays a crucial role in your branding. A well-designed and appealing shop sign communicates much about your business, so ensuring it is clear, attractive, and represents your brand effectively is crucial.

Do I need planning permission for my shop sign? In short, yes. Many people must be aware that installing shop signage on their building requires planning permission. This is a legal requirement and is primarily in place for safety reasons. However, it’s worth noting that shop signs smaller than 0.3 square meters generally do not require planning permission. Planning permission is also necessary for light boxes and illuminated signage, regardless of size.

How do I obtain planning permission? To obtain planning permission for your shop sign, you must contact your local planning authority, typically a borough, district, or city council. They will assess your location and the type of signage you plan to install and provide guidance on the specific requirements and processes. Contact them directly or visit their website for further information and assistance. It’s always beneficial to be compliant and cooperative throughout the process. Generally, local authorities aim to support businesses and boost the local economy. They will assess whether your signs are safe, the design is clear, and everyone should strive for professional qualities when creating a sign.

What factors should I consider regarding planning permission? There are a few standard conditions to consider, which should be fine. It should be easily and safely removable if requested by the authorities. Additionally, you will need permission from the property owner or site where the shop is situated. Lastly, shop signs must maintain the visibility of public signs under any circumstances.

What happens if I need to obtain planning permission? Installing a shop sign without obtaining planning permission can lead to various consequences. At best, you may be required to remove the sign. At worst, you could face substantial fines and legal action. It is, therefore, advisable to apply for planning permission before installing your shop sign. This ensures that you have the necessary permissions in place and helps avoid any unnecessary costs or complications if you are unable to proceed with your preferred sign.

Signage providers like SIGN GROUP can work with you to create a high-quality shop sign. If you would like more information, you can explore their shop signs and feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

Usually yes — especially for illuminated or large adverts. Always check with your council and the Planning Portal.

From site survey to install can take 2–4 weeks, depending on permissions and fabrication.

Shop front signs typically cost from £450 to £5000, depending on factors such as size and whether the customer or the sign maker handles the installation. This price guide covers various designs and styles of shop front signs and some bespoke outdoor signs. If you’re interested in exterior building signs, the prices are similar to those displayed here. Please refer to our dedicated pages for pavement signs and shop window graphics.

While this list isn’t exhaustive, it is a helpful starting point when searching for a sign company. If you require a bespoke sign, we can accommodate your needs as we manufacture our signs. When choosing a shop front sign maker, we recommend checking their online reviews to gauge customer satisfaction. Our sign manufacturing factory is equipped with the latest equipment, and we have produced hundreds of signs in the industry. We take pride in our positive customer reviews on Google, which we encourage you to read. For an accurate quote or to visit our signage showroom, please don’t hesitate to contact us .