A great storefront sign is easy to read, fits your brand, and stands out from the street. It’s one of the first things people see when they pass your business. And it can be the reason someone walks in or walks right past.
In this article, you’ll learn seven clear ways to design a storefront sign that helps bring in more walk-in traffic. Whether you’re opening a new shop in downtown Sarasota or updating your storefront near Bee Ridge or Fruitville Road, these tips will help you make a better first impression. From types of signs to illumination, we cover it all.
1. Keep Signage Simple and Easy to Read
People don’t stop to read signs. They glance and move on. That means your storefront sign needs to say everything fast.
Here’s what works:
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Large, bold letters
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Clear fonts like sans-serif or block styles
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High contrast between text and background
Avoid thin, curly, or script-style fonts. Don’t cram in too much information. Just your business name or logo is enough. The goal is instant recognition.
Try standing across Main Street or looking from the parking lot on Tamiami Trail. Can you read the sign at a glance? If not, it’s time to simplify.
2. Match Your Brand Identity
Your sign is part of your brand. It should reflect your look, style, and personality.
That includes:
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Using brand colors
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Matching the tone of your business
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Including your logo or icon if possible
For example, a beachwear shop near Siesta Key might use coastal colors and casual fonts. A law office downtown might go with bold, traditional lettering. Make sure your sign tells people what kind of experience to expect before they even walk in.
3. Choose the Right Size and Placement
A great design means nothing if no one can see it.
Think about:
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The width of your storefront
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Where people are walking or driving
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Obstructions like palm trees, poles, or nearby awnings
Your sign should be big enough to see from the road but not so large that it overwhelms your storefront. Aim for eye-level height when possible, and make sure it faces the main flow of foot and car traffic, whether that’s Gulf Gate, St. Armands Circle, or University Parkway.
Placement matters more than most people think. Look at your store from multiple angles. Ask yourself, “Would I notice this sign if I didn’t know it was there?”
4. Use High-Quality Business Sign Materials
Cheap signs wear out fast. And worn-out signs turn people away.
Using durable materials helps your business look professional and well-maintained. That includes:
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Weatherproof plastics and metals
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UV-resistant finishes
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Aluminum, acrylic, or high-density foam
Sarasota weather means dealing with sun, humidity, and storms. A quality sign holds up to the Florida elements and still looks sharp after months or even years. A worn or faded sign outside your storefront on Clark Road or Beneva could leave a bad impression. Don’t let that happen. At Sarasota Sign Shop, we use top of the line printers such as an EPSON V7000
5. Illuminated Sign Options: Add Lighting for 24/7 Visibility
A well-lit illuminated sign works all day and all night. Even if your business isn’t open late, people still drive or walk by. And when they see your sign clearly at night, it sticks in their mind.
Popular lighting options include:
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Backlit signs
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Front lighting on monument signs with fixtures
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Halo lighting around channel letter signs
Lighting helps with visibility during storms, early mornings, or busy evenings in areas like Southside Village or Lakewood Ranch. If you want people to remember your shop even after hours, a lit sign gives your storefront a boost.
6. Use Eye-Catching Colors That Pop Without Overdoing It
Color can draw attention. But too much of it can confuse the eye. The best storefront signs use just a few colors that stand out from the background.
What works:
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High-contrast color combos (like black on white or red on yellow)
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Using brand colors in limited doses
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Avoiding colors that blend into the building
Stick to two or three colors. Make the most important part of your custom store sign, usually your business name, the boldest.
In Sarasota’s bright sun, bold colors fade fast unless you use the right inks and finishes. A good sign shop will make sure your colors stay crisp and don’t wash out under Florida skies.
7. Include a Clear Call to Action
Not every storefront sign needs a sales message. But the right call to action can help people take the next step.
Try adding things like:
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“Walk-ins Welcome”
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“Now Open”
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“Order Online”
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Store hours or a phone number
These small additions give people more reasons to stop by or contact you. Just don’t let the message get in the way of clarity. Keep it short and easy to read.
If you’re on a busy road like U.S. 41 or in a high-traffic plaza, your sign for your business should help guide people to your door.
Bonus Tip: Check and Update Sign Design Over Time
Even the best storefront sign needs attention. Styles change. Weather fades colors. Buildings get painted. A sign that worked five years ago might not be helping you today.
Make time once or twice a year to check:
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Visibility from all directions
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Condition of materials and lighting
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Whether the design still matches your brand
Small updates can make a big difference. And a fresh sign shows that your Sarasota business is active, modern, and ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best material for storefront signage?
The best material depends on your location and budget. In Sarasota’s climate, aluminum and acrylic are great choices because they resist rust, UV damage, and rain. High-density foam can also work well for 3D lettering. Stick with materials that last in Florida’s heat and humidity.
How big should a storefront sign be?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. A good rule is to make each inch of letter height readable from 10 feet away. For example, a 10-inch letter is readable from 100 feet. Sarasota County may have sign ordinances based on zoning, so it’s smart to check before ordering or installing your sign.
How much does a storefront sign cost?
Prices vary based on size, materials, lighting, and installation. Simple flat signs can start around a few hundred dollars. More advanced signs with 3D letters, LED lighting, or custom shapes may run into the thousands. At Sarasota Sign Shop, we provide free quotes so you can plan your budget with no surprises.
Ready to Bring in More Foot Traffic with Business Signage?
Your storefront sign is one of the most important tools you have to attract new customers. It works 24/7 and helps people decide whether to stop in or keep walking.
If your business is in Sarasota, Gulf Gate, Siesta Key, or anywhere nearby, Sarasota Sign Shop is ready to help. We design and install custom signs that look great and last through Florida weather. We are the most trusted local sign company in the industry.
Call now or request a quote online to get started on a storefront sign that drives foot traffic and fits your brand.
