How Great Signage Can Set You Apart From Others This Holiday Season

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

November 26th, 2021 · Taye Harding

As the holiday season approaches, marked by supply chain challenges and labor shortages, "rebound shopping" is expected to surge as many seek to make up for missed retail experiences in the past year. One valuable lesson we've learned from recent news stories is that starting early can greatly benefit you in the long run.

So, how can businesses differentiate themselves from others during this holiday season? The answer lies in implementing an effective visual communication strategy that caters to every shopper. Here are three key aspects to keep in mind:

1. Engage with signs for savings:

   While some individuals may have extra disposable income due to limited opportunities for outings in the past year, most shoppers still prioritize finding good bargains. By utilizing hanging signs, window graphics, and festive cutouts, retailers can visually communicate their deals and shipping discounts, enticing customers to make a purchase. Eye-catching A-frames positioned outside a retail space can capture the attention of passersby, encouraging them to step inside and take advantage of the savings on offer. Consider incorporating banners and banner stands into your communication strategy this season.

2. Cater to holiday foot traffic:

   Recognizing that shoppers have limited time and a need to navigate quickly through stores, retail establishments can set themselves apart by employing signs that prioritize their customers' needs. Stanchions can assist in managing checkout lines effectively, while clearly marked areas for various services can help shoppers navigate the store efficiently and fulfill their holiday requirements in a timely manner. Additionally, signs can be used to highlight and direct customers to departments and gift sections that may be slightly off the main traffic path, ensuring they find the perfect gift they were seeking.

3. Embrace seamless pickup options:

   If curbside pickup or buy-online-pick-up-in-store options are not yet part of your business strategy, it's time to reconsider. These options experienced a surge in popularity in 2020 and have become a permanent fixture in the retail landscape. Reports indicate that they improved shoppers' experience by 70% due to increased convenience. In fact, 90% of customers claim they are more likely to choose a store based on their experience. Given that customer experience plays a significant role in influencing store preference over competitors, take a few moments to conduct a holiday audit by walking around your store. Assess areas that may benefit from additional signage to enhance the overall shopping experience.

By implementing these visual communication strategies, businesses can differentiate themselves, attract customers, and provide a positive holiday shopping experience that sets them apart from their competitors.