Signage Statistics Vancouver Island Business Owners Need to Know!
Good signage has the power to attract new customers and grow your business. In fact, a well-designed sign delivers one of the highest returns on investment compared to any other advertising medium—especially for retail, restaurants, tourism businesses, and professional services.
If you are one of the many high-traffic businesses on Vancouver Island—perhaps along the Old Island Highway running through Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum, Courtenay, and Campbell River—and your signage is outdated or uninspiring, it’s time to rethink your strategy! Read on and start imagining the true potential of your signage real estate.
1. Increased Visibility and Sales
- First Impressions Matter: A 2011 FedEx Office study found that 76% of customers entered a store for the first time based solely on its signage.
- Sales Growth: Businesses with well-designed signage see an average sales increase of 10-15%, while a study by the Sign Research Foundation (2013) found that sales can jump by 30% or more when businesses invest in high-quality signage.
- On-the-Go Buying Decisions: The Small Business Administration (SBA) reports that 75% of people make buying decisions while driving—and a large portion of new customers are drawn in by external signage.
💡 What This Means for You: If you’re looking for an immediate way to boost foot traffic and revenue, upgrading your signage could be a game-changer. A well-placed, high-visibility sign can turn passing traffic into paying customers.
2. Brand Recognition and Customer Trust
- Professional Image: 60% of consumers say they are more likely to enter a business with an attractive and well-designed sign (Sign Research Foundation, 2014).
- Building Trust: 68% of consumers believe that a business’s signage reflects its professionalism (Brighter Graphics study). A clear, attractive sign fosters trustworthiness and credibility, making customers feel more comfortable engaging with your brand.
💡 What This Means for You: A sign is often the first impression your business makes. An outdated or poorly designed sign can deter potential customers, while a sleek, modern, and branded sign can build recognition and establish your business as a reputable choice.
3. Cost-Effectiveness: High ROI with Low Maintenance
- Cost Per Impression: According to the SBA, on-premise signage is the most cost-effective advertising tool available. Compared to other forms of advertising, signs offer a much lower cost-per-impression:
- On-Site Sign: $0.02 per 1,000 views
- Newspaper Ad: $2.81 per 1,000 views (with only a 53% reach)
- TV Ad: $9.82 per 1,000 views (reaching just 14% of the market)
- Longevity & Low Maintenance: Unlike digital ads that require ongoing spending, a high-quality sign lasts for years, delivering continuous brand exposure with minimal upkeep.
💡 What This Means for You: If you want an affordable, long-term marketing tool that keeps working 24/7, signage is the way to go. A one-time investment in a well-made sign can outperform expensive ad campaigns over time.
4. The Role of Signage in Customer Decision-Making
- 68% of people decide to visit a business after seeing its sign (Signage Foundation study).
- 50% of those customers make a purchase once inside.
- 54% of consumers have failed to locate a business due to inadequate signage—leading to lost revenue.
💡 What This Means for You: Investing in a high-quality, clear, and visible sign not only helps people find your business but also increases the chances of impulse purchases and walk-ins.
5. Outdoor & Wayfinding Signage: Guiding Customers to Your Business
- Street-Level Visibility: According to Grand View Research, businesses with standout outdoor signage experience a significant boost in foot traffic.
- Effective Wayfinding: In malls, airports, and retail spaces, wayfinding signage improves customer experience, reduces confusion, and increases time spent in-store, leading to more purchases.
💡 What This Means for You: Whether it’s a large outdoor sign that grabs attention or interior wayfinding signs that enhance customer experience, well-placed signage can guide potential buyers straight to your door.
6. Impact on Customer Engagement & Digital Signage
- People focus on well-designed signs: Eye-tracking studies show that customers are naturally drawn to prominent, clear signage, increasing the likelihood of engagement.
- Digital Signage is a game-changer: Digital displays can increase customer engagement by 30-50%, particularly in high-traffic areas or retail settings.
- 60% of businesses reported sales increases of 10% or more after upgrading their signage.
💡 What This Means for You: If you want to boost engagement and sales, digital signage and strategic sign placement can captivate your audience and encourage them to take action.
7. The Signage Advantage: Key Takeaways
📍 Signs Bring in New Customers: A survey found that 50% of people discovered businesses because of signage, far outpacing word of mouth, newspapers, or TV ads. 📍 85% of customers live/work within five miles of a business and see its signage 50-60 times a month, reinforcing brand impressions. 📍 Impulse Stops Matter: Depending on the industry, 20-45% of customers stop on impulse when they see a compelling sign (e.g., convenience stores, restaurants, and supermarkets). 📍 Signage = Profitability: Adding or upgrading signage can lead to sales revenue increases of 7-15%, depending on the industry. 📍 Relocation Means New Opportunities: With 13-20% of the population moving each year, businesses have an ongoing chance to attract new customers with clear and compelling signage.
Final Thought: What Can Signage Do for Your Business?
The statistics speak for themselves: great signage is not an expense—it’s an investment that pays for itself. Whether you’re looking to increase sales, boost brand awareness, or enhance customer experience, the right signage can transform your business’s success.
If you’re ready to make the most of your signage potential, let’s create a solution that elevates your brand and drives real results!
Check out our most recent Featured Sign Projects or have a look at our Signs page full of photos to inspire you!
