Think about the last time you walked past a storefront or entered a new building. What stood out first? Chances are, it was the signage. From welcoming reception displays to large-scale hoardings, signage is more than just design, it’s communication, branding, and customer experience all rolled into one.
In today’s fast-moving world, where attention spans are shorter than ever, your signage has only seconds to leave a lasting impression. But with so many types of signage now available, from acrylic to built-up lettering, it’s not always easy to know which style fits your space, goals, or brand identity.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the different types of signage, how to choose the right one for your business, and why great signage is a smart investment in 2024 and beyond.
Main Categories of Signage
When clients ask us, “How many types of signage are there?”, the answer often depends on the function. But in general, signage falls into four main categories:
1. Informational Signage
These are signs that provide direction, navigation, or identification. Think of wayfinding systems, maps, and restroom signs. Clarity and visibility are key here.
2. Promotional Signage
Used to market a product or service, like retail posters, shop banners, or vehicle graphics. Promotional signage can be temporary (seasonal sales) or permanent.
3. Safety & Compliance Signage
Critical for workplaces, especially in construction or industrial environments. These signs communicate health and safety information clearly and in compliance with local laws.
4. Brand Identity Signage
Your logo, storefront name, or monument sign all of these reflect your brand’s identity. These signs are long-term and contribute to public perception and recall.
Want to see how this works in practice? Explore our Industrial Signage portfolio for real-world examples.
Specialized Types of Signage
Beyond the basics, there are advanced signage types tailored for specific industries or aesthetics. Some of the most popular include:
Built-Up Lettering
These 3D letters are often made from metal or acrylic and mounted to create shadow and depth. Ideal for corporate offices, retail stores, or hospitality settings.
View our Built-Up Lettering work for inspiration.
Acrylic Signs
Sleek, clean, and modern, acrylic signs are popular for indoor use, particularly in office lobbies and interior branding. They’re versatile and highly customizable.
Check out our Acrylic Signs page for design options.
Projecting Signs
These stick out perpendicular to a wall or façade, making them ideal for high foot traffic areas where visibility from both directions is crucial.
Browse our Projecting Signs to see how they can elevate your shopfront.
Perimeter Hoardings
These are large-scale signs used around construction sites for branding and safety. They serve dual purposes: public engagement and regulatory compliance.
Explore Perimeter Hoardings for recent installations across Cheshire.
Choosing the Right Signage for Your Needs
The signage you choose should align with your business goals. Here are key questions to ask yourself:
- Where will the sign be placed? Indoor vs. outdoor makes a big difference in material choice.
- What is the main goal? Is it to inform, promote, or brand?
- What is the viewer’s distance and speed? Road signs need different design strategies than lobby plaques.
- Will it be permanent or temporary? Consider materials, ease of installation, and cost.
- Does it align with your brand identity? Typography, colour, and finish should feel cohesive with your overall aesthetic.
For Example, A retailer launching a holiday pop-up may prefer flexible, colourful display signage, while a corporate HQ may invest in long-lasting cast signage with a metallic finish.
Key Qualities of Good Signage
So what makes good signage? It’s more than just good design. Here are the hallmarks we emphasize at Zero Signs UK:
1. Visibility
If it can’t be seen, it can’t do its job. Consider size, placement, and contrast to ensure readability at various distances.
2. Simplicity
Great signage doesn’t try to say too much. Limit text to essentials and use visuals where possible.
3. Durability
Your signage should be made from materials that suit its environment—weatherproof for outdoor, lightweight for interiors.
4. Brand Consistency
Your signage should match your fonts, colours, and tone of voice across all customer touchpoints.
5. Compliance
Especially for health and safety signs, adherence to local building codes and regulations is non-negotiable.
Need help deciding? Our Signage Experts can guide you through every step—from concept to installation.
The Future Outlook of the Signage Industry
The signage industry in the UK is undergoing major transformation thanks to digital tech, eco-conscious materials, and flexible manufacturing.
Trends to Watch:
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Biodegradable vinyls, recyclable aluminium, and UV-curable inks are now standard in forward-thinking signage.
- Digital Integration: From QR-coded signs to interactive window displays, digital signage is merging with traditional formats.
- Bespoke Branding: Businesses now want signage that’s unique, handcrafted, and personalized—not mass-produced.
- Filming Signage Demand: Due to the UK’s booming media production sector, there’s a rise in custom filming signage for on-set props and temporary branding.
In Cheshire alone, we’ve helped film crews, festivals, and short-term venues get temporary signage designed, delivered, and removed, all within 72 hours.
As consumer expectations and urban design evolve, so will signage. The ability to adapt quickly, maintain visual integrity, and meet modern branding needs is what sets top-tier signage providers apart.
Final Thoughts: Signage That Works as Hard as You Do
Your signage is one of the first things customers notice, and one of the last things they remember. It should communicate clearly, reinforce your brand, and guide people intuitively.
At Zero Signs UK, we don’t just make signs, we craft communication tools. Whether you need acrylic signage for your reception, built-up lettering for your storefront, or perimeter hoardings for your next build, we’re here to help you get it right.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many types of signage are there?
There are four main types: informational, promotional, safety, and identity. But within these are dozens of subtypes like acrylic signs, built-up letters, and hoardings.
What is display signage?
Display signage refers to signs used for product promotion or aesthetic impact. Common in retail, exhibitions, or pop-ups.
What does “cast signage” mean?
Cast signage is typically made by pouring materials like aluminium into a mould. It’s durable and often used for plaques or heritage branding.
How can I tell if my signage is effective?
Good signage should be legible, align with your branding, and lead to a clear action, whether that’s visiting a store, making a purchase, or finding a location.
What is filming signage used for?
It’s used for temporary sets, movie props, and on-location branding. We create filming signage that’s easily removable and designed to match the visual needs of the scene.
