In-store signs for wayfinding and branding

A modular system will allow graphics to be changed or moved easily.

A modular system will allow graphics to be changed or moved easily.

Material matters
As mentioned, material selection is one of the primary considerations when working with POP display designs. Most frequently, the decision will be based on longevity, cost efficiency and sustainability. As such, many POP display fabricators seek to use recycled and/or recyclable materials that are long-lasting to support several different marketing campaigns, thus helping ensure a positive return on investment (ROI).

For signmakers expanding into the POP graphics business, it is a good idea to work with a supplier who has experience and can assist in the planning and design processes. Asking the manufacturer for references can help.

Samples should be provided for free or at least at a greatly discounted price, so they can be considered by the signmaker and then presented to the client for approval, before fabricating an entire sign system.

Even with special attention and service in the early stages, the entire project should be feasible at an attractive price. The goal is to find one system that suits the entire store, rather than have to customize every display from the ground up.

A well-designed system will ensure a consistent look and feel throughout a store, enabling marketers to promote their brand either with a single display or in multiple locations.

A well-designed system will ensure a consistent look and feel throughout a store, enabling marketers to promote their brand either with a single display or in multiple locations.

One of the growing prerequisites these days is to meet retailers’ own ‘green’ policies, which support environmental sustainability and may also relate to health and safety issues. ‘Eco-resins,’ for example, are co-polyesters containing recycled content that form the basis of many green substrates, which can be integrated into modular signs, then later removed and returned to the manufacturer for recycling. The best of these materials are attractive, easy to maintain and long-lasting.

The supplier may offer not just the materials themselves, but also optional fabrication services. Sometimes, these are a more cost-effective option for some of the work than in-house production.

In any case, it is very important to work with a supplier who can be counted on to deliver as quoted. Being late can be very expensive.

Danny Schneider is vice-president (VP) of sales and business development for Vista System International, which provides modular flat and curved-frame technology for fabricating wayfinding and POP signs. For more information, visit www.vistasystem.ca.