Shopfront signage refers to the visual displays mounted or located on the exterior of a commercial property or retail store. These signs might include your logo, business name, trading hours, core services, or current promotions.

Your shopfront signage might be as simple as precision-cut lettering on a window, or it could be as attention-grabbing as an illuminated sign that spans the building's roofline. If your business needs visibility, shopfront signage is an essential marketing tool. 

Not sure what you need? Read on. We’ve asked our signage experts to help explain the most common types of shopfront signage, how they compare, and how to choose the right one for your business needs.

First impressions matter. Recent research reveals that 38.5% of shoppers form assumptions about a business’s overall quality based on the signage’s readability and aesthetics. The statistics also show that having poor signage can negatively impact your business, with 54% of surveyed shoppers admitting they couldn’t find a business when the signage was too small or unclear. This means investing in high-quality shopfront signage can generate new business opportunities.

When deciding on the right type of signage for your storefront, consider the following questions:

How are people moving past your business? 

If your potential customers are driving past, they’re moving at speed. This means you need a large, easy-to-read building or illuminated sign placed up high and in clear view of the road. Conversely, if customers are walking past your business, consider street-level signage, such as window decals, vinyl lettering or A-frame signs.

What are your peak operational hours?

Does your business trade late or rely on early morning or evening trade? Consider options like LED lightboxes or digital display screens to ensure your message doesn’t get lost in the dark.

Does the building have any architectural features you can leverage?

Expansive windows next to pedestrian walkways can be leveraged through high-impact window graphics. Alternatively, consider if your building layout could accommodate a vinyl banner or wall mural. These options are great ways to maximise visibility without making any permanent structural changes.  

How often will your messaging need to change?

If you need flexibility, consider options such as digital display screens or A-frame signs. These types of signs allow you to update your content quickly and in a cost-effective way. 

Are there local council restrictions or landlord guidelines?

Before ordering your signage, consider if your location has any council restrictions or landlord guidelines. This includes any structural weight limits, strict size allowances or heritage colour codes tied to your commercial property. 

There are many shopfront signage options available, but the best set-up for your business depends on your budget, your building’s layout, and how much visibility you need. We’ve prepared a list below, but if you’d like guidance on your specific needs, why don’t you give us a call and ask for our advice?

1. Building signs 

Building signs provide enhanced visibility and are custom-built to suit your building’s architecture, location from the street and your brand. They use durable, weather-resistant engineering to ensure your business stands out clearly and makes a powerful first impression. Building signage options can include 3-dimensional lettering, awning and fascia signs or wall murals and graphics. These signs offer a practical choice for businesses that want a permanent, high-end presence that provides clear street visibility.

2. Window signs

Window signage is easily visible from street level, making it a great way to attract customers and build brand awareness. It is also one of the most budget-friendly shopfront signage options. The versatility of window signage means it can be used for permanent branding or temporary promotion, while also enhancing your storefront appeal without incurring the costs of building modifications. Choose from vinyl lettering, frosted window film, window decals or one-way vision signs. 

3. Outdoor digital and illuminated signage

Outdoor digital and illuminated signage will ensure your business is visible 24/7. Custom-built to suit your brand and building layout, these displays utilise energy-efficient LED technology and weather-resistant materials for durable, long-lasting performance in any conditions.

When thinking about outdoor digital display signage, consider LED lightboxes, LED backlit signs, 3D illuminated letters, LED message signs or neon signs. These types of signs are a great long-term solution for businesses that operate late or want to catch the attention of passing customers. 

The best shopfront signage is clearly visible for passing pedestrian and vehicle traffic and is easy to read at a glance.

Strong shopfront signage includes:

• A clear and prominent logo or business name.
• An easy-to-read message that instantly explains what your business does.
• High-contrast colours for maximum readability.
• Sizing and scaling that are easy to read from a distance.
• Quality materials suited to Australian outdoor conditions.
• Clear visibility that isn’t blocked by trees or street fixtures.
• Professional installation for a clean, secure and lasting finish.

A crowded shopfront design can be harder to read, especially from a distance or a moving vehicle. Signarama can help you plan the right balance of branding and visibility.

Whether your goal is to refresh your current storefront, launch a brand new location, or add high-impact branding that works twenty-four-seven, Signarama can help you choose the right solution for your business.

Your local Signarama team can design, fabricate and install your storefront signage, making sure it’s seen from the road, the footpath and everywhere your brand needs to be seen. Don’t let potential customers pass you by. Talk to your local Signarama store today.