3 Types Of Proven Retail Signs That Grab Attention In 2024

A retro themed Hermes pop up in NYC uses hand drawn graphics and neon as unconventional retail signs.

Last Updated on August 8, 2024 by Beth Martin

Three, two, one…Did that customer keep walking?

You only have a few critical seconds to grab the attention of someone passing by. The retail signs you select are the first glimpse to attract customers and one of the most important tools in your visual merchandising toolbox.

So, your retail store signage must be clear, concise, and stand out. Oh yeah, and stylish.

This isn’t a small order, but with the right design, it’s possible. 

I’ve designed many retail displays and stores and am here to share my favorite ideas for the best retail store signage for your business.

We’re reader-supported. We may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through links on our site.

Polka dots cover the exterior of the LV flagship store in NYC for a collaboration with Kusama.
In 2012, I was lucky enough to work on the window displays for the LV x Kusama collaboration at the NYC Flagship location.
long wave 8

3 Types of Retail Signs to Try:

1. Beyond Banners

A teal exterior with fish and dots wraps a storefront in the Wharf area in DC.

Banners are great because they are basically a blank canvas for anything you can dream up. But don’t stop here. Wrap your walls, floors, and stairs in vinyl to create a completely custom environment.

The photo above is a store facade I designed for Diament Jewelry. This bold vinyl wrap is the brightest thing in the area, and it invites customers inside to experience an even more exciting interior.

In a digital world, standing out is more important than ever, and turning your whole building into a sign is an excellent way to grab your customers’ attention.

Banners are a great opportunity to add some art to your walls that incorporate your brand’s signs, but when you can go bigger, do it!

2. Go Bold With Neon

A neon sign on a brick wall in Seoul says, "I left my cruffin in San Francisco."

Stand out amongst all the channel letters and cabinet signs with a retro neon sign. With the introduction of LED, neon signs have never been easier.

Yes, traditional neon signs look fantastic but are more delicate and expensive, so there’s no shame in going with the newer LED variety. You can create neon signs in endless sizes, and customers still love photographing a business with clever neon branding. 

3. Sign Holders

A coral color sandwhich board is bright and cheerful.
Sign holders can be simple, cute, or as creative as you want them to be. This great option is available on Etsy.

Sign holders are a great way to draw attention to your business without breaking the bank. No matter your shop’s aesthetic, a simple sign holder can help you show customers who you are and bring your brand to life.

This option is a place where you can really let your brand’s personality shine. Be creative, and change your graphics seasonally—or even weekly if you are up to the task!

long wave 8

Final Thoughts

No matter what style of signs you choose for your store, keep your branding fresh yet concise to let your products shine.

There is no right or wrong answer to marketing, so have fun designing your signs.

If choosing the signs for your retail store feels overwhelming, I would love to help. Please reach out to learn more!

Keep the Inspiration Flowing