You’ve seen those A-shaped signs outside shops. They have messages written on them. We call them sandwich boards or frame signs. Shops have used them for a long time. They help people walking by notice the store.
Now we have the internet, phones and digital marketing. You might think these old signs don’t work anymore. But they do! Even with all the new technology, sandwich boards can still help businesses a lot. Let’s find out why these simple signs are still useful today. They are a basic but effective way to get local attention.
People Ignore Online Ads
We see so many ads online every day that we often just don’t look at them anymore. Our brains learn to block them out.
Sandwich boards are different. They’re real things you see when you’re walking. You’re not trying to ignore them like you do with online ads. So, a good sandwich board can actually catch your eye.
Good for Local Customers
Sandwich boards are like friendly signs right outside your shop. They’re good at grabbing the attention of people walking by – the ones who are already close. Think of it this way: online ads can go everywhere on the internet, but a sandwich board speaks directly to the people who are most likely to walk into your business.
Let’s say a pizza place puts a sandwich board on the sidewalk with a special offer for lunch. Someone walking by who’s feeling hungry is much more likely to notice that sign and decide to go in for a slice. That’s more effective than a general online ad for pizza that someone far away might see. Sandwich boards are simple tools that talk straight to your local customers.
Doesn’t Cost Much
The A-frame signs are budget-friendly if you want to get the word out, especially when you compare them to online ads. You make a one-time purchase of the board and some simple writing tools like chalk or markers. After that, there are no ongoing costs every time someone glances at your sign.
What’s also great is that you have complete control over what it says. You can easily update the message to highlight daily specials, new products, or even just a catchy phrase to stick in people’s minds. This flexibility is super helpful for small businesses that need to watch their spending on advertising. A sandwich board is a simple, affordable, and adaptable way to attract local attention.
Shows Your Personality
Online things can often look the same. But a sandwich board with a message you write by hand lets your business show its special style. It can make your place seem more friendly and like real people work there.
A funny line or just a kind message can make people smile as they walk by, and they might remember you later. You don’t always get that warm feeling from ads you see online. A sandwich board lets you talk to the people nearby in a way that feels more personal and real. It helps your business feel like it’s part of the neighborhood.
Makes People Decide Now
Sandwich boards are great for getting people to act in the moment. Someone strolling by might not have intended to buy anything, but a tempting deal or a delicious picture on a sandwich board can suddenly make them want to go inside your business.
Imagine walking past an ice cream shop on a hot day and seeing a sign that says “Cool Down with Our New Mango Sorbet!” Even if you weren’t planning on ice cream, that sign might just convince you to treat yourself. Sandwich boards put your offer right in front of people when they’re nearby and ready to make a quick decision. They can turn a simple walk into a sale.
Mixes Real Life and Online
Even though sandwich boards are physical signs on the street, you can use them to link to the internet world.
For instance, you can put a special square code, called a QR code, right on your sandwich board. People can use their phone’s camera to scan this code, and it will take them straight to your website or a special online offer you have. So, the sign helps bring people to your online things.
You can also write your social media names, like your Instagram or Facebook name, on the board. A simple message like “Follow us on Insta!” can help you get more people to see your posts online. This way, the real-world sign helps grow your online presence.
Helps You Stand Out
When many shops are together, a good sandwich board helps you stand different. Other stores might just have their regular signs. But a sandwich board on the sidewalk grabs extra attention.
It’s like a friendly hello on a busy street. A fun sandwich board makes people stop and look. They might remember your shop more than others. It helps you stand out. You can make a good first impression on people walking by. Your business can feel different and be more memorable.
Lasts a Long Time
A good sandwich board can last for years. Online ads need constant payment. But a sandwich board is a one-time cost. It can keep bringing in attention.
You only need to keep it clean. Change the message now and then. It’s a good way to get seen for a long time. This makes it a smart choice. It keeps working without more money spent on ads. It’s a lasting way to get noticed by people nearby.
What It All Means: Sidewalk Signs Still Matter
Even with new technology, sandwich boards still work well. They are real, cheap, and go straight to local people. Additionally, they help you look different. Also, they show what your business is like.
Use them in smart ways. Put good messages on them. You can even add online things like QR codes. Sandwich boards can still bring customers to your shop. So, don’t forget these simple signs. They might be just what your business needs to get more people through the door. They are a simple but strong way to connect with your local area.