Bandit signs, more commonly referred to as yard signs or lawn signs, are gaining popularity in in communities around the world.  The name “bandit sign” comes from their success in bringing in business, sometimes re-routing customers from their original path of travel to another or similar business nearby. Bandit signs are generally more budget friendly than some other options, often have a faster turnaround time.  They are typically used in industries like Real Estate to promote open houses, homes for sale, available lots and other types of events happening on the day of.  They are also commonly seen used for political campaigns to showcase support for a candidate or to guide voters to polling locations to increase participation.  You’ll most often see them on the edges of yards, outside businesses, and along roadways leading up to the location they are trying to point you towards. The draw of bandit signs is that of all the different types of signs, they are generally the most temporary, easy to install, and most cost effective way to grab attention. 

Why Bandit Signs Work and When to Use Them

If you’re looking for a way to promote your business or event, bandit signs are probably the best option for you.  The draw to bandit signs with many business owners is their simple design, quick turnaround time, and easy installation and breakdown. They are a great, low investment signage option for small businesses and have proven to be highly effective marketing tools. Bandit signs are also a great way to spread brand awareness in your neighborhood as well as your town. Studies have shown that these signs have helped businesses increase sales and profitability because you can directly target the audience you’re trying to reach. Whether you are a new business in the area, have a time sensitive event or service you are promoting, or are making a last-minute advertising push, bandit signs are perfect for you.

Bandit Signs Design Tip and Tricks

Bandit signs are intended to grab the attention of drivers or pedestrians at a glance. Because of this, the simplest designs work best because they are easy to read and understand in under 2-seconds. Signarama sign experts recommend keeping colors and fonts to a minimum and following these four sign tips:

1. Use prominent text to draw the eye to your sign.  Choose a bold, easy to read typeface such as Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman.  Fonts like these can be easily read from a farther distance, so your message will come across clearer.  
2. Use simple messaging on your sign.  Since bandit signs are generally smaller in size, you need to maximize your available design space.  Be clear and concise with the message to draw your passersby in, where you can then follow up with more information.  We find that advertising hours, specials, or new products work well to peak customer curiosity.
3. Use contrasting colors to draw the attention of potential customers.  For example, if your base sign is black, consider using white, yellow or a similar light-colored text to create visual contrast.  
4. Lastly, it may all come down to placement. When it comes to placing your sign, consider your target audience: will they be driving by, or walking? What direction will they most likely be coming from during rush hour traffic? Is there a spot that cars stop to wait that would give people more time to read the sign?  Depending on the answers to these questions, you might have a few different locations to try for optimal exposure.

If you follow these tips, your sign is going grab the attention of passing future customers and increase exposure of your business.

We Make Bandit Signs Too!

Not sure where to start in the design process? Having trouble figuring out the best sign to implement based on your goals? Signarama’s experienced professionals are trained in providing guidance to our clients and business partners when it comes to selecting the right marketing tool for your business. You can also select a pre-designed sign from our collection or work with our talented in-house professionals to create your own customized promotional bandit sign or yard sign for your business, organization, or event. We have helped many clients across different industries including home services, real estate, property management, retail locations, restaurants, and more design yard and bandit signs to increase their traffic to their locations. Our specialty is and always will be helping local businesses and national brands reach their local audiences every day.  Contact your local Signarama today to learn more about how we can design your custom bandit signs and have them produced today, with speedy service!