Gray double-sided shop sign white text

Presenting a shop or business by means of a shop front sign is important – in fact, virtually a must. On the other hand, the target group will determine whether the sign needs to be large and eye-catching or if a simple shop sign on the door giving the name is enough.

When conveying a message, it is just as much about what you say as how you say it. This also applies to a shop sign, as the text is as important as the colour and shape in order to convey a message. There are, therefore, primarily three important things to consider when designing shop signs.

Designing a shop sign – Three tips

Reflect the business visual identity

The signs placed outside the shop, for instance, on the building façade, should make the nature of the shop clear from the offset. If it’s an antiques shop, perhaps ornate letters in an older style would fit nicely on a black metal sign. However, if the shop has a marine theme, maybe rope and symbols of the sea will capture the feeling of the shop. 

Be clear from afar 

Particularly for large shop signs that indicate the shop name, a clear sign that is visible from afar is important. It helps customers find their way to the shop, but above all, it makes it easier for customers to discover the shop and makes them curious to find out what it offers. Do you want a hanging shop sign, vinyl on the window or perhaps a façade sign? Choose from several different fixing methods.

Colours and shapes

The “shop signs” category also includes signs within the shop. These include signs to highlight specific categories or departments, or showcasing products on sale. Although these should also match the overall character of the shop, it is important to design signs according to the message they are intended to convey. Sale signs, for instance, are often red to draw attention and include extra clear text.

Think about what message your shop sign aims to convey – in terms of text, colour and shape. Do you want a modern or vintage shop sign, big or small, different fixing methods? You can easily design shop signs with your own preferences on our Design Page. You'll also find a lot of shop sign ideas on this page to choose from as a base for your design.

What are shop signs made of?

You can choose among several different materials when you order a shop sign from us, depending on where you want to put it. Choose for example vinyl lettering, aluminium signs, engraved plastic signs, acrylic signs and many more. Some materials are great for outdoor use, some are not. You can always check our comparison page to see which material fits where and what you should choose based on your needs.