Effective Sandwich Board Advertising Techniques
Sandwich board advertising catches their attention right on the street. It provides a straightforward but effective method to connect with potential customers. Businesses succeed when they frame crisp, catchy messages that resonate immediately with passerby. It makes a large difference when you use bold colors and a readable font. Placing boards in high-traffic areas maximizes visibility. Make sure your message connects with this site’s readers. Pay attention to local regulations or face fines. Sandwich boards give businesses a unique way to interact directly with the community. They incorporate age-old marketing with a personal twist, and they’re effective components of any ad campaign.
What is Sandwich Board Advertising?
Definition and Purpose
As their name implies, outdoor sandwich board signs are a popular advertising tool. They consist of two boards, usually set up back to back with eye-catching words and images. You may spot them carried by someone or displayed in front of a store, serving as effective sidewalk signs to attract the attention of passersby. Restaurants, bars, and cafes particularly love using custom sandwich signs to showcase their menu items, daily specials, and happy hour promotions. These clever sandwich boards act as silent salespeople, working around the clock to generate foot traffic and enhance visibility for local businesses, making them a valuable addition to any marketing strategy.
Historical Background
Sandwich boards, an effective outdoor advertising tool dating back to the 1800s, were once a common sight for businesses in areas with significant foot traffic. Originally, these outdoor sandwich board signs catered to pedestrians, while billboards targeted automobile audiences. Despite the rise of digital marketing and modern advertising strategies, sandwich board signs have maintained their relevance. You can spot clever sandwich boards on bustling shopping streets like Oxford Street in London, Champs Élysées in Paris, and 42nd Street in NYC, where they serve as valuable marketing tools for local businesses. Their ability to draw attention and promote offers makes them a timeless choice for restaurant owners and retail shops alike.
Modern Usage and Trends
In today’s world, outdoor sandwich board signs haven’t just survived; they’ve adapted to modern marketing needs. A big part of what they’re being used for today is customization. Businesses often utilize sandwich board signs to promote a sale, direct foot traffic, or highlight daily specials. The first benefit of these clever sandwich boards is their flexibility. They can also easily be updated to reflect seasonal offers, daily deals, or last-minute promotions with no additional costs, making them a cost-effective advertising solution for many businesses. Twenty percent of businesses still use sandwich boards to promote their services, appreciating these signs for their ability to attract customers in a crowded market.
Benefits of Sandwich Board Advertising
1. Cost-Effective Marketing Strategy
Consider it as a cost-effective advertising solution for getting your message heard. Those on a budget can turn to outdoor sandwich board signs, which are one of the best types of A-frame signs. They’re affordable, especially when compared to expensive digital ads or billboards, allowing you to save money while still catching eyes. With a custom sidewalk sign, you can adjust your message whenever you desire. A few bucks spent on a sandwich board sign can boost your sales dramatically, with some cases showing an increase as high as 80%! If you want to reach more people on a budget, this is the way to go.
2. High Visibility in Busy Areas
Visualize placing your outdoor sandwich board signs in a high-traffic street or a busy shopping district, as this is prime exposure. People walk by and can’t help but notice your sandwich board sign, which stands squarely in their way. Nothing pulls in foot traffic like a well-placed sign, particularly if it’s eye-catching and engaging. Companies that utilize this outdoor advertising method often see their sales boom, with some reports indicating increases as high as 52%.
3. Flexibility and Customization Options
Sandwich boards offer unmatched flexibility for advertising, allowing you to easily switch messages as frequently as needed. Have a new menu item? Simply write it down on your outdoor sandwich board sign. Running a big sale? Showcase it prominently on the board. These durable outdoor signs can withstand various weather conditions, ensuring your message remains visible come rain or shine. Whether indoors or outdoors, custom sandwich signs effectively meet your business needs, from daily specials to a friendly “Hello.”
4. Direct Engagement with Passersby
Sandwich boards aren’t just static signs; they’re interactive outdoor sandwich board signs that entice passersby to engage. By adding a call to action like “Visit us today,” you can watch people respond positively. These clever sandwich boards can also guide customers to your shop or promote special offers. According to a study by FedEx, more than two-thirds of people base buying decisions on signage alone, showcasing the serious marketing impact of effective design.
5. Enhancing Brand Awareness
With outdoor sandwich board signs, you’re not merely communicating a message; you’re developing your brand identity. As soon as someone sees your custom sandwich sign, it raises awareness of your business. Use it to showcase your logo, colors, and style consistently, as this helps people remember you. Over time, this builds trust and loyalty, making your sandwich board an effective advertising tool to enhance brand recognition.
Effective Techniques for Designing Sandwich Boards
Use Humor to Capture Attention
This is where using humor will put you in the game with your outdoor sandwich board signs. A clever or funny sandwich board sign doesn’t just attract attention; it makes people smile as they walk by. Everyone enjoys a good laugh, and when humor is paired with an interesting message, it creates memorable moments. For example, a café might use a playful line like, “Life happens; coffee helps.” Keeping it to seven or fewer words ensures it’s easy to read, even when someone’s in a hurry. A well-crafted sidewalk sign can awaken passersby, and when placed strategically, we’re more likely to walk in!
Create a Personal Connection
You make a personal connection with your new potential customers using clever sandwich boards that talk directly to them. Phrases like “You deserve a treat today!” hook attention and create an inviting feel, making people feel special. Statements such as “Your new favorite outfit has arrived!” generate enthusiasm. This approach focuses more on interaction rather than selling, enhancing the personal touch. Keeping the message short is crucial; if customers face a wall of text on your outdoor sandwich board signs, they will likely not make it past the first line, missing your marketing message.
Highlight Special Offers and Deals
Highlighting special offers and deals on your outdoor sandwich board signs can encourage urgency and excitement. Showcasing daily specials or flash sales on a custom sandwich sign can entice passersby to take immediate action. This is how you can use phrases like “Today Only” or “Limited Time Offer” to put pressure on making a quick decision. A sandwich board sign captures attention and highlights time-limited offers, driving foot traffic right into your store!
Display Business Hours Creatively
Showing business hours doesn’t have to be boring; instead, consider using clever sandwich boards to present them in a fun or creative way that sticks in the memory of the reader. Rather than simply listing times, get creative! Try saying “Open when the coffee’s hot!” or “Here until the last customer leaves.” This not only informs but also entertains, leaving a positive impression about your restaurant’s personality and enhancing your outdoor advertising strategy.
Incorporate Visuals for Impact
Visuals can amp up the power of your outdoor sandwich board signs. Incorporating images, logos, or icons can effectively communicate your marketing messages in an instant. Sometimes a picture of a steaming cup of coffee or a slice of pizza can tell more than words alone. You can purchase or create high-quality custom sandwich signs for less than $100. This option is way cheaper than other types of print advertising and promotion. Place the sandwich board sign directly in front of your store, ensuring it is visible by positioning it at the property line or flush against the building wall. Keep in mind that only 1 out of 5 people will read a sign that isn’t easy to see.
Crafting Messages for Maximum Impact
Keep Text Clear and Concise
When crafting a message for a sandwich board sign, simplicity is key. We recommend keeping your message to seven words or less, making it easy to digest for passersby. A straightforward message like “50% Off Today Only” can effectively spark interest and draw customers in. Avoid overwhelming potential customers with excessive information; a wall of text will likely be ignored. Instead, use clever sandwich boards that encourage immediate action, such as “Visit Us Now,” to maximize your outdoor advertising impact.
Customize Designs for Target Audience
Your design should effectively communicate with your intended audience, making outdoor sandwich board signs an excellent choice. Full-color printing can make visuals pop, drawing more eyes to your custom sidewalk sign. Simple, high-contrast designs convey the message without distractions. Consider using themes or references that resonate with your audience; for instance, a café could showcase a “Westeros” cocktail special or a “Jon Snow” burger to attract fans. Customizing your sandwich board sign’s design enhances its appeal and relevance.
Address Customer Pain Points
Consider the problems or unmet wants that your customers share, and tackle them directly. If everyone else is getting the ‘buy one, get one free’ message, add something else to the picture. For example, ‘Buy 1 Get 1 & F.R.E.E. Drink‘ is a little hook. A well-written outdoor sandwich board sign can cut through the noise, waking people up from their daydreams as they pass by. It’s about providing a solution or value to customers that they didn’t even know they were looking for, making your advertising strategy effective and engaging.
Change Messages Regularly
Variety keeps things fresh, especially when it comes to outdoor sandwich board signs. Regularly updating your sandwich board sign’s message will ensure your business remains top of mind for prospects. This effective advertising strategy has proven successful for years. Even in the digital age, 70% of consumers still notice and are influenced by these clever sandwich boards. Mix it up occasionally with offers or funny sandwich board quotes to keep your audience guessing and interested, driving regular foot traffic as they return to see your latest promotions.
Important Considerations for Placement
Follow Local Regulations and Guidelines
When using outdoor sandwich board signs, it’s essential to follow local guidelines to avoid fines or removal. Many cities impose specific rules regarding the size, placement, and content of sandwich board signs. Before setting up your custom sidewalk sign, check with your local council and business association, as certain locations may require permits for signs on sidewalks or public property. Additionally, ensure that your sign doesn’t impede pedestrian traffic and adheres to ADA guidelines, allowing everyone access to your restaurant or retail business.
Choose High-Traffic Locations
Where you place your outdoor sandwich board signs will significantly impact their effectiveness. The more people who can see your signage, the better, so position it in high-traffic areas like busy streets or near store entrances. For example, real estate agents often utilize sandwich board signs around entrances of properties or bustling neighborhoods. The primary function of these boards is to enhance visibility, making them a preferred marketing tool for restaurant owners and retail businesses alike. Well-lit areas can also help, as the sign will be even more visible at night. Consider locations where people traditionally come to a stop, such as near cafes or bus stops, to maximize foot traffic.
Ensure Accessibility and Visibility
Accessibility and visibility are crucial in outdoor sandwich board signs advertising. It’s essential to place the sandwich board sign where people can easily see and read it. Ensure the board is high enough and slanted for visibility from a distance, choosing locations that provide a clear view. Avoid spots obstructed by cars or large plants. Indoors, these clever sandwich boards can showcase welcoming messages on one side and thank-you notes on the other, enhancing customer service. With excellent durability, these outdoor signs can withstand harsh weather conditions, allowing you to change the messages whenever necessary, making them a valuable marketing tool.
Conclusion
Want to make your business pop on the street? Go beyond the humble sandwich board to advertise. It’s not just about slapping some words on a board.
Get smart with your design. Bright colors, clear fonts, and a catchy message can draw in the foot traffic. Put it where people will see it. Near your entrance or where they have to stop, i.e., crosswalks, cafes.
Use short, punchy messages. Humor or a clever twist can go a long way. You want people to stop, read, and act. Shape your board to reflect the character of your area. Regular updates make it feel new and current.
Need a little extra help to nail that perfect message or design? Give us a shout — we look forward to hearing from you. We show you what you need to do to separate yourself and attract the crowd.
Contact MetroClick today to obtain your unique solution and begin experiencing results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is sandwich board advertising?
Sandwich board advertising utilizes outdoor sandwich board signs placed on sidewalks to effectively promote your business. This classic advertising tool is a tried-and-true approach for brick-and-mortar businesses, allowing them to convey their offers or brand messages directly to potential customers in a bustling traffic area.
What are the benefits of using sandwich boards?
Sandwich board signs are an affordable and effective advertising tool, providing flexible, versatile messaging that captures the attention of prospects and attracts local foot traffic to businesses.
How should one design an effective sandwich board?
Great design for outdoor sandwich board signs should be clear, beautiful, and to the point. Use punchy colors, readable fonts, and a clean layout to create effective signage that grabs attention from a distance.
What makes a sandwich board message impactful?
An impactful message is short, clear, and action-oriented, especially when using outdoor sandwich board signs. Cut your message to the precise dimensions of your audience’s interests and needs, ensuring it resonates and ends with an effective call-to-action! Clever sandwich boards featuring humor or curiosity can significantly increase engagement.
Where is the best place to position a sandwich board?
Set up outdoor sandwich board signs in a few places where your target market walks by. Consider how the view from various directions will be and ensure you don’t block foot traffic. Good locations include near entrances, heavy foot traffic zones, and high-traffic event areas for effective outdoor advertising.
Are there legal considerations for using sandwich boards?
Yes, businesses need to review local regulations regarding outdoor sandwich board signs. Permits may be required, and there may be restrictions on size, placement, and content for effective outdoor advertising. Compliance means legal usage without incurring a penalty.
What types of businesses benefit most from sandwich boards?
Retail, cafes, and small local businesses all benefit hugely from using outdoor sandwich board signs. They go after customers who are right there and make snap decisions. Restaurants, boutiques, and service providers often experience increased foot traffic with effective sandwich board utilization.