Author: Blu Hardy

Hardy Signs Sponsors and Plays at Charity Golf Day 2024

On Friday, May 3rd, 2024, the East Midlands Chamber of Commerce gathered 18 teams from the local business community to raise money for the Chamber President’s Charities of the Year. The group consists of multiple Community Foundations that provide grants for hundreds of smaller local charities and groups that provide vital services to our region. 

Hardy Signs was pleased to enter a team and sponsor the event signage, which helped the teams navigate their way around the stunning golf course at Breadsall Priory Country Club. The post and panel signage was placed on each hole to ensure the seamless running of the day and highlighted the East Midlands Chamber’s and Hardy Signs’ logos. Other event sponsors include Select Car Leasing – Burton for the trophies, Think 3 as the web partner, Jakt as the media partner and Barclays–Eagle Labs as the main event sponsor. 

“It was a brilliant day for a great cause. The Community Foundations that the Chamber supports span across the whole of the East Midlands and make a huge difference to the families they support.” – Nik Hardy, Managing Director, Hardy Signs. 

Nik was joined by teammates Ben Laing from Branston Golf and Country Club, Richard Wileman from Select Car Leasing – Burton and Richard Harden from IWS Group, who brought a lively spirit of friendly competition and fun-filled banter to the day.About the company: Hardy Signs is a professional and digital signage company that designs, manufactures and installs bespoke signage products to a wide range of business sectors in the United Kingdom. The company has been awarded the manufacturer of the year in 2019 and 2020.

Planning is a good start in every task taken in life. Planning allows you to set goals which are feasible, measurable and in line with the final outcome that you are seeking.

Known as the most powerful and effective way to attain what you want is called ”planning”. Planning is broader than we might think: taking a set of necessary steps not only to achieve your goals but also to carry them out in the most efficient manner.

A signage plan or system provides – in simplest terms – an efficient source of information and guidance for people. They will be able to navigate large areas like markets, massive buildings, complexes, or hospitals.

A directional signage system can communicate various information types. Advertising uses advertising to promote a company’s services or products. Typically signs are used to warn the public against dangerous things, such as Stop signs. Wayfinding plans are primarily used for providing direction for persons that use exterior and internal advertising within business premises.

Nobody plans to fail; they simply fail to plan.

Why do you need a signage plan?

Business signage is a crucial component in the growth and development of an industry sector. Customer feedback and sales can tell if a current sign is working for the business or not.

Nothing to worry about; the business size can be a big company or simply a corner shop; signage needs the same quality and dedication. Installing outdoor advertisements requires analysis of the space around and a plan to make the process easy for passers-by.

Advantages of the signage plan

Way to success

A signage strategy is a way to succeed for the business. Business signs will be there working to attract new customers 24 hrs and have a huge impact on the overall running of the company.

Good signage will be easy spotted and memorable by choosing the correct colours, content, optimum lighting and the quality of installation. An effective signage plan is an investment for long-term value and pays back by bringing customers and increasing sales.

Professional look

The whole process of planning signage will consist in various elements that give potential and value to the business. One of them is showing professionalism through signs. Professionalism means care, making people feel in safe condition unless they have a huge board on the business entrance.

A high-quality, professionally designed sign will create a long-lasting impression on your customers and help you build a strong presence in your local community.

Also, it will help communicate who you are and what you stand for as a company; it’s an essential piece to building your brand. It’s also something that you shouldn’t take lightly or postpone as part of future projects in your planning process.

How to plan it?

To achieve perfect signage for your business, there are a few settings which will lead you to success:

Size: Our professional team at Hardy Signs will help to determine a suitable size and shape of signage in coherence with the building. The size of the building usually is a great reference for the sign’s size. Shapes should match with the inside and outside overall look of the company in order to enhance their best version.

Location: Another important setting is the location of the business. Through signs, we want to increase visibility where the sign would be different for a business located on a highway compared to one in

Colours and Fonts

Colours should be chosen carefully to meet two basic requirements: colours that represent the company at their best and are attractive and eye-catching for people.

It’s essential to work on a strategy of colours and fonts which are eye-catching, easy to be seen, and transmit the message the business decides to give to customers.

Message

Content on signage is another way to call for action, and usually, if it’s carefully chosen with represents the business for a long time at least.

Position

Our professional team is specialised in signage and will help you to determine the most interactive spots to put signs. Whether it’s a large or small building, they will carefully investigate the corners that need to come to life, the halls covered in signs, and the entrance and exterior signs. Our team is skilled in analysing the strengths of signs in a business.

Local planning authority

Aside from all the planning for the physical signs, environment analysis and position, another thing to consider to be in line with is planning permission.

The office building area will determine a few standard conditions which need to be applied.

An agreement with the owner of the site and the local planning authority should be made to input the necessary rules, legal requirements, getting the correct permissions, and planning regulations depending on other factors, such as the case of a public highway located business.

Planning permission is required for exterior signage mainly. The reason is that local authority needs to ensure that any outdoor advertisement of a business will not obstruct or create too much trouble for the area users.

Rules to be aware of…

The main rules consist of having the permission of the owner of the site, highway authority permission if it’s placed on highway land, not obscure or hinder the interpretation of an official road, rail, waterway or aircraft signs or create any other hazard.

Another rule consists of illuminated signs, which require express consent on the size used. Any signs larger than 0.3 square metres may need planning permission.

If a signage is not authorised by the local government or doesn’t meet the planning rules, it will ask to be removed carefully.

Is any signage excluded from planning permission?

The answer is YES, advertisements signage which the rules exclude from the planning authority’s direct control, such as those for which the rules give a ”deemed consent”.

Check our news section and read more detailed information about the five standard conditions for signage planning permission.

Conclusion

Get advice from an award-winning team at Hardy Signs to transform every corner of your business through signage.

Whether you are looking to advertising or showing brand awareness through signage Hardy Signs team is one click away. Contact us through phone or our live chat on the website, and one of our team will take you through all services.

If you are considering signage for your business, we hereto consult you with all information you need to decide on any project.

About the company: Hardy Signs is a professional and digital signage company that designs, manufactures and installs bespoke signage products to a wide range of business sectors in the United Kingdom. The company has been awarded the manufacturer of the year in 2019 and 2020.

External Illuminated Signage in Staffordshire

External illuminated signage is an essential tool for businesses in Staffordshire looking to stand out in a competitive market. These signs not only enhance visibility but also add an element of professionalism and appeal to your storefront or business premises. By choosing external illuminated signage, you ensure that your brand is seen day and night, regardless of the weather conditions.

One of the primary benefits of external illuminated signage is its ability to attract attention. Whether it’s a brightly lit logo or a strikingly designed signboard, illuminated signs can make a significant impact. This increased visibility can drive foot traffic, making your business more noticeable to potential customers passing by. This can be a game-changer for businesses located in bustling areas of Staffordshire.

Moreover, external illuminated signage is highly customisable. At Hardy Signs, we offer a wide range of options to match your brand’s identity. From LED lights to neon signs, our team of experts can design, manufacture, and install the perfect signage for your business. We understand that every business has unique needs, and we tailor our solutions to meet those requirements.

Durability is another key advantage. Our signs are built to withstand the elements, ensuring they remain bright and effective year-round. Investing in high-quality external illuminated signage from Hardy Signs means you’re investing in long-term visibility and brand recognition.

In conclusion, external illuminated signage is an effective way to boost your business’s presence in Staffordshire. With Hardy Signs’ expertise, you can create a lasting impression that draws customers in and keeps your brand shining bright.

About the company: Hardy Signs is a professional and digital signage company that designs, manufactures and installs bespoke signage products to a wide range of business sectors in the United Kingdom. The company has been awarded the manufacturer of the year in 2019 and 2020.

Fabric Lightboxes in Staffordshire

Fabric lightboxes are an innovative and versatile signage solution for businesses in Staffordshire. They offer a modern and eye-catching way to display your brand and are ideal for various applications, from retail displays and exhibitions to office branding and advertising.

One of the main advantages of fabric lightboxes is their ability to create a high-impact visual display. The combination of fabric graphics and LED lighting produces vibrant, attention-grabbing images that stand out. This makes fabric lightboxes perfect for drawing in customers and creating memorable brand experiences. The graphics are easily interchangeable, allowing you to update your message or promotional content as needed.

At Hardy Signs, we specialise in designing and manufacturing custom fabric lightboxes to meet your business needs. Our lightboxes are crafted using high-quality materials and advanced LED technology, ensuring they are both durable and energy-efficient. The lightweight aluminium frames make them easy to install and transport, providing flexibility for various display requirements.

Fabric lightboxes are also highly versatile. They can be used in a range of settings, from retail stores and shopping malls to trade shows and corporate offices. Their sleek and modern design adds a touch of sophistication to any space, enhancing your brand’s professional image. Additionally, the even illumination provided by the LEDs ensures that your graphics are displayed with maximum clarity and impact.

In summary, fabric lightboxes are a powerful tool for enhancing your business’s visibility and appeal in Staffordshire. With Hardy Signs’ expertise, you can create stunning, customised lightboxes that captivate your audience and elevate your brand presence, making a lasting impression on customers and clients alike.

About the company: Hardy Signs is a professional and digital signage company that designs, manufactures and installs bespoke signage products to a wide range of business sectors in the United Kingdom. The company has been awarded the manufacturer of the year in 2019 and 2020.

How to Entice Employees Back to the Office with Bespoke Signage

As businesses navigate the post-pandemic world, the challenge of enticing employees back to the office has become increasingly apparent. Hardy Signs offers a creative solution through bespoke signage and office design that transform conventional workspaces into vibrant, inspiring environments. By integrating wall graphics, custom-designed meeting rooms, chill zones, and focus areas, companies can create an office space that employees are excited to return to.

Wall Graphics: Hardy Signs specialises in creating wall graphics that breathe life into office spaces. These can range from motivational quotes and brand-centric designs to nature scenes and abstract art. Such visuals not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the office but also serve to inspire creativity and boost morale among employees.

Custom-Designed Meeting Rooms: Meeting rooms are pivotal for collaboration and creativity. Hardy Signs provides bespoke signage solutions that transform these spaces into hubs of innovation. By incorporating brand elements and motivational imagery, these rooms can stimulate productive discussions and foster a sense of community.

Designed Chill Zones: Recognizing the importance of relaxation and informal interaction, Hardy Signs creates chill zones that offer a respite from the workday. These areas are designed with comfort and relaxation in mind, featuring calming colours, leisure-inspired graphics, and signage that encourages relaxation and socialisation.

Focus Areas: In today’s dynamic work environment, having dedicated focus areas where employees can work without distractions is essential. Hardy Signs designs these spaces with clear, motivating signage that helps delineate them from more collaborative areas, enhancing overall productivity and concentration.

By employing bespoke signage to revamp the office environment, Hardy Signs aids businesses in creating a workspace that not only aligns with their brand identity but also supports the well-being and productivity of their employees. This approach to office design plays a crucial role in encouraging employees to transition back to office work with enthusiasm and commitment.

About the company: Hardy Signs is a professional and digital signage company that designs, manufactures and installs bespoke signage products to a wide range of business sectors in the United Kingdom. The company has been awarded the manufacturer of the year in 2019 and 2020.

Sustainable Illumination Eco-friendly Solutions in Modern Signage

Nowadays, being sustainable is part of every business governance since the importance of it has been increased. Ever since society’s industrialisation, negative impact on the environment has risen rapidly, both regulators and consumers seek to get services or products from companies which are involved and continuously make effort toward sustainability such as environment or social issues. Businesses are continously being more conscious when they invest into a new project by ensuring that is sustainable option eco friendly compliant.

 

How Modern Signage Can be Eco-friendly?

Green, sustainable and environmentally friendly signage are terms that apply to most modern corporates today. Energy saving and a paperless work are the first important steps towards the signage companies in creating a ‘greener’ workplace. Digital signage can replace most of paper communication in an organisation.

Printing things out constantly on paper and deliver them causes a considerable amount of pollution and its pricey. Furthermore, many of the papers produced this way are not even used or stored. As there is a cleaner, cheaper alternative available, it only makes sense to make use of it.

 

Environmental Benefits of the Digital Signage Industry

Digital signage is able to transmit anything to anyone wherever your audiences are and it’s repeated continuously. It also improves communication. This dramatically reduces printing time and the waste of valuable paper resources.

Digital signage can help you develop your business and increase communication. Standard LCD screens aren’t always the most appropriate indoor signage solution because of the underlying technology of the screen. In some instances it has more advantages if static images are preferred.

 

Energy Efficient

LED lights are an energy-efficient light source. The light uses up to 80% less battery power than traditional incandescents. Having ambient light with lowered energy costs can help you reduce your environmental impact. They should also remember that energy consumption does not compromise brightness. The LED light uses very few resources to create the light of older bulbs. You can have less lighting and have a more precise display.

 

Recyclable Resource

If the lifespan of a digital signage has come to an end there is no ned to dispose it. The chemicals that have made the signage are recyclable materials. The recycled materials can be turned into other furniture or useful objects.

Sustainable signage can really be the world the ultimate green, carbon-negative alternative to scarce hardwoods and even non-renewable resources from concrete and metals to plastics. Ink that is free of non renewable resources or chemicals at a 100% is nearly imposible to find and given this many signages are using the water based inks which contain less harsh chemicals and no petrolium.

 

Reusable Materials

Reusable signs can be used several times, reducing the demand for persistent replacements, and decreasing the amount of waste. A sustainable and innovative solution is having a sign, banner, light boxes, panels and more which can be used again and again.

 

Invest in Digital Signage Solutions

Investing in quality digital displays can be updated from a remote place through a device or software, which will decrease the need for printed materials and save the sources. In the sustainability aspect choosing digital signage instead of traditional printing can be a much greener solution.

Of course, there is a cost behind digital signage solutions; however, it offers other benefits, such as reduced paper waste. Digital signage solutions require no paper. The whole process is executed digitally through software and other programs. Also, it requires only one person to operate the sign panels in various locations, which helps to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.

 

Use of LED Lighting Technologies

LED lighting uses lower power consumption compared to halogen or fluorescent lighting, and this enables it to be more durable than fluorescent lighting. LED lamps produce more light than most LED lamps and offer an energy efficiency boost of up to 70%.

LED lighting has several advantages such consuming less energy and has a longer lifespan when compared to traditional fluorescent or neon lightiing which makes LED a much more suitable eco friendly choice.

 

Remote Operation

One of the advantages of digital signage solutions is the allowance that gives to businesses to update or change content in real life time from a remote location. There is no need to be physically at the signage as the software can be altered from everywhere. Compared to traditional signage, it reduces the need for transport and removals, which, as a result, reduces carbon footprint.

 

To Wrap it Up

At Hardy Signs, we remain determined and focused on increasing the usage of eco-friendly material in signs and investing in technologies that offer facilities for producing sustainable signage. We are committed to contributing through signage to reduce waste, supporting energy-efficient appliances, and improving our governance and regulation to achieve the objectives of ESG.

The continuous investment on advanced technologies have had a significant impact on achieving compliance in our environmental performance. ESG is part of our daily work, and our targets for the future consist of a greener environment and sustainable solution. Our award-winning team is trained through schemes in order to provide high performance when supporting clients through their journey of signage.About the company: Hardy Signs is a professional and digital signage company that designs, manufactures and installs bespoke signage products to a wide range of business sectors in the United Kingdom. The company has been awarded the manufacturer of the year in 2019 and 2020.

The Science of Attraction: How Illuminated Signs Boost Business Visibility

To significantly enhance a business’s interior signage requires effort and expertise in knowing the brand well and the gaps that need filling. Planning signage and adapting it to the brand will take the business closer to success.

Not always signs are visible, and this is a result of passersby not being attracted enough. Investing in illuminated signs will bring several benefits to the brand: increased visibility and brand recognition. Ensure signs look visually pleasing because a quality finish suggests a quality offering.

Express your brand’s identity because consistent design helps with positive brand recognition and recall with target audience. For the best results, make sure to develop your signage projects alongside other media under your business’s more comprehensive marketing strategy. It’s important to understand that what’s on exterior signs on the outside reflects what’s on the inside.

 

Benefits of Using Illuminated Signs for Business Advertising

LED lights can be a powerful tool used to announce a business presence. Lighting has long since become an effective means of reaching new customers, and this still exists in modern times. The sign has advanced due to innovative technology in the advertising sector. A large illuminated sign is easy to find and lets your prospective client know you.

 

A Cost-Effective Advertising Solution

In a world of increased costs and high advertising costs, LED borders are a valuable and cost-efficient solution for a business wanting to increase brand awareness and promote the brand. Print advertising is expensive, especially in small businesses. LED border signage offers an effective advertising strategy in contrast to other forms of signage. These products require no maintenance, are efficient in energy usage and are built for long-term durability. It is an ideal long-term investment enabling businesses to display attractive displays that are attracted by passersby.

Lets take a look closer how illuminated signs can grab attention and attract customers.

 

Illuminated Logo Signs

On busy streets and motorways, in high traffic areas especially in the dark, human attention will be easily caught by light or bright objects. Logos are the first things that passersby can memorise quickly. The logo contains a lot of information about a brand; they convey brand values and personality. The long-lasting impression that the logo leaves through visuals helps boost visitors’ numbers. This type of constant brand exposure can make your business more recognisable to customers, which often translates into increased customer trust and loyalty.

 

Readable from a Distance

An effective illuminated sign design should provide the feature of being easy to read at a distance exactly what message it says. Elements of neon sign that play an important role include:

Font elements can make a sign look professional and readable more customers. Simple fonts tend to be easier to be read while other fonts make the script complex.

Space can help a brand’s image if used correctly. Usually, people tend to fill any inch of a poster or any other sign. Cramming too much into a sign design can make customers feel overwhelmed as it’s hard to read. There is no formula for the ratio of design and white space; however, it is advised to have a thirty percent white.

Letter size is also essential to consider as it determines the readable distance.

 

Attract Through Colours

Colour carry specific psychological, emotional and cultural connotations that influence costumers behaviour. The magic of colours is that they start communicating to the consumer from a distance and, if used correctly, can affect the purchase decision. Depending on the brand identity, values and services offered, colours can be chosen as per their attributes, such as red for excitement and blue for trustworthiness.

Colour combination speaks about a brand and boost brand visibility if the right colours are used. Light text in a dark background or vice versa is always successful in grabbing the target audience’s attention. At Hardy Signs, we have the expertise and experience to lead the way in choosing the right combination for your brand.

 

Create Presence

“LED signs and lights are perfect blend of sign components to announce your business stand and a brand presence Lighting has been for long an effective manner to reach new potential customers and still have the same power in modern era. Professional signage can communicate value and create engagement, increase foot traffic, such as attracting customers during dark hours. An attractive, prominent LED sign can become a local landmark, boosting your business’s local presence and aiding in word-of-mouth marketing.

 

Types of illuminated signs

Neon signs are a classic choice that gives unique lighting through a glass tube. They are known for their popular retro look, where neon signs are usually used for restaurants, bars neon gas can, and other companies that seek to create a vibrant ambience.

Illuminated letters are the new lighting technology using 3D signs combined with LED lights to grab attention. They are easy to customise and match with a particular brand and style digital signage, which makes them popular for businesses worldwide who seek to make a statement through signage.

Lightboxes have LED backlit text or graphics, making them extraordinarily bright and eye-catching displays useful for the signage industry advertising business signage and branding purposes. Also, they are easy to customise with different colours and printings. LED lights are known for their eco-friendly nature, consuming less power.

 

Conclusion

Attracting through singage can be challenging as it requires full expertise in the way of using every single element to work out in line with business goals, values and needs. Also analysing the market, competitors and latest technology advancements in order to stand out.

Our long experience in various signage industries and segments has proven our professionalism and dedication to providing high-quality products. At Hardy Signs, we are determined to achieve excellence and support our customers with high-end services through our award-winning team, which will help you throughout the whole process to get the best out of it.

Don’t hesitate to contact us and get our expertise help in your journey with signage.About the company: Hardy Signs is a professional and digital signage company that designs, manufactures and installs bespoke signage products to a wide range of business sectors in the United Kingdom. The company has been awarded the manufacturer of the year in 2019 and 2020.

Digital signage has taken over the advertising industry. The latest trends in digital signage include freestanding digital signs, touchscreen signage, outdoor digital signage, wall-mounted LCD screens, LCD video walls, and more.

There are several reasons to consider prioritizing digital signage above standard signage with still images and messages. Here are the top three benefits of using the latest digital signage technology to drive traffic to your business:

1) Increase Customer Engagement

Customers are immediately attracted to digital signage because the picture is often vibrant and animated with colourful images, logos, and text. Increasing customer engagement with digital signage is much easier than traditional printed signage. And thanks to the latest trends, you can install digital messaging and imagery almost anywhere.

2) Maintain a Competitive Advantage

Many businesses are not following the latest trends in digital signage technology. Instead, they still use classic printed signage to reach their customers. But you can maintain a competitive advantage by using digital signage for all your company’s promotions. Then you will attract more customers than your competition.

3) Display Multiple Designs on One Sign

Digital signage allows you to experiment with several designs on the same signage. For instance, if you use an LCD video wall to display your promotions, you could have it transition between various promotional messages and designs on the same wall. Then you don’t have to worry about taking down signs and posting new ones. The digital screen can change the designs for you automatically.

Learn More

Would you like to learn more about the latest digital signage products and how your business can benefit from them? Call Hardy Signs at 01283 569 102 to learn more today.

 

Learn about your local signage regulations before installing signage on your commercial property. You may feel the urge to create and install signage anywhere you want, but you must seek planning permission to verify the signage does not pose a threat to public safety.

 

Below are the top things business owners should know about local signage regulations.

Location is a Factor

Planning regulations typically implement signage requirements based on location. For instance, outdoor signage has several more restrictions due to the potential environmental impact and harm to the general public.

The rule of thumb is that no toxic materials can exist in your outdoor signage. Secondly, your signage cannot cover or mask any critical public safety signage, such as road signs, aircraft signs, or waterway signs. Keep your business signage far away from public signage.

Get Permission from the Property Owner

To install commercial signage on someone else’s property, you must seek their permission first.

Do not assume you can freely stick signs in the ground around your neighbourhood without any legal issues. Property owners must give permission, or you could be fined for violating their property rights.

Learn More

Do you have questions about the local signage regulations governing your business? Call Hardy Signs at 01283 569 102 to learn more about these regulations and how our signage products can ensure you stay compliant with the law while promoting your business.

If you purchase our bespoke signage design and installation services, we can seek out planning permission on your behalf to ensure your business complies with the law.