When you think about the most eye-catching signs in a city, what comes to mind? Chances are, neon signs make the list. These are powerful branding tools that can completely change how people see your business.
If you’ve ever passed by a glowing, colorful sign at night and felt the pull to walk in, you’ve experienced firsthand the magnetic effect neon can have. Let me break down why I think neon signs are a brilliant choice for businesses, especially when you’re trying to stand out in a crowded market.
When you invest in a custom neon sign, you’re making a statement about who you are and what you offer.
Instant Brand Recognition
Imagine walking down a busy street, and out of the corner of your eye, you see a bright, glowing sign in the shape of a coffee cup. Instantly, you know it’s a café, even before reading the words. That’s the kind of instant brand recognition a good neon sign can deliver.
Your sign can become a landmark. People will start saying things like, “Meet me by the neon red star” or “It’s next to that bright ‘open late’ sign.” Neon signs can literally put you on the map and if you want to know how, read more.
Showcase Your Brand’s Personality
Neon is playful, bold, and creative. When you design your sign, you can reflect your brand’s personality. If your business has a quirky, fun vibe, go for a funky shape or bright colors. If you want to project elegance, opt for more subtle tones and sleek designs.
It’s about creating something that feels you. And the beauty is, whatever your vision is, neon can be shaped to match.
Create an Atmosphere
Neon signs aren’t just for the outside of your business; they work wonders inside, too. A neon-lit quote on the wall or a glowing company logo can completely change the ambiance of a space.
Boosting Foot Traffic With Neon Signs
Let’s be real for a second: Getting people to walk through your door is half the battle when it comes to running a business. Neon signs are incredibly effective at attracting foot traffic. In fact, they almost act like a beacon, pulling people in from the street.
Why are they so effective?
- They’re impossible to miss: When you see a bright neon sign at night, it sticks out among the sea of dimly lit shops and restaurants. Even in broad daylight, neon has a way of catching the eye.
- They create curiosity: Have you ever seen a neon sign that made you pause and think, “What kind of place is this?” That’s the magic of neon—it stirs up curiosity, encouraging people to check out what’s behind that glowing door.
- 24/7 visibility: Neon signs work hard for your business, day, and night. They’re always on, even when you’re closed, meaning your brand is always being advertised.
A business without signage can often blend into the background, while a neon sign screams, “Hey, we’re here!” If your business is in a competitive location, this could be the edge you need to stand out.
The Social Media Factor
In today’s world, social media is a huge part of marketing, and guess what? Neon signs are incredibly Instagrammable. People love taking photos with unique, cool-looking signs, especially when they’re glowing in vibrant colors.
When you install a neon sign, you’re not just putting up a piece of advertising—you’re giving people something to talk about. Your sign can easily become a popular photo backdrop, helping your brand spread online.
- Pick a catchy phrase: Neon quotes or phrases in your shop can become instant social media stars. People will naturally want to snap a picture and share it.
- Go bold: Bright, bold designs pop on camera. Think about how your sign will look not just in person, but through the lens of a smartphone.
- Position it strategically: Put your neon sign in a place where it can be easily seen and photographed, both from inside and outside your business.
Social media is one of the easiest ways to get free advertising, and with the right neon sign, you’ll have people snapping and sharing in no time.
How to Choose the Right Neon Sign for Your Business
Now that I’ve hopefully sparked some ideas about how neon can work for your business, let’s talk about how to choose the right sign.
There are a few key things to consider:
What’s your brand’s personality? – Your sign should reflect who you are as a business. If you run a hip, trendy bar, you might want something colorful and funky. If you own a high-end boutique, a more minimalistic design could work better.
Where will it be located? – Think about placement. Will your neon sign be outside to attract people from the street? Or will it be an interior feature to enhance your space? The location can dictate the size, style, and colors you decide.
What’s your budget? – Neon signs can be surprisingly affordable, but they can also get pricey depending on the complexity of the design. It’s all about finding the right balance between what you want and what you can afford.
Do you want to go classic or LED neon?
Traditional neon signs use glass tubes filled with gas, giving them that authentic vintage feel. However, LED neon signs offer the same glow but are often more energy-efficient and durable. Both have their benefits, so it really comes down to preference.
Are Neon Signs Worth the Investment?
Neon signs aren’t just a fun addition to your business—they’re an investment. But are they worth it? I’d say absolutely, and here’s why:
- Long-term visibility: Neon signs are long-lasting and continue to attract customers for years after installation.
- Energy-efficient options: LED neon signs are energy-efficient and eco-friendly, keeping electricity costs low.
- Increased foot traffic: Well-placed neon signs increase foot traffic, leading to higher sales.
- Branding that sticks: A clever neon sign creates a memorable brand image, sticking in customers’ minds better than other forms of advertising.
Wrapping It Up
If you’re looking for a way to stand out, catch the eye, and maybe even create a little buzz online, neon might just be the answer. Let’s be honest—it’s just plain cool.
