The COVID-19 pandemic that came in like a lamb in the early spring of 2019 has been roaring like a lion ever since in predictable fits and starts all over the country. The science that comes after discovering a never-before-seen virus is ever-changing, and as such, the information that emerges is understandably confusing at times. Frustrations are at an all-time high in demographics across the board, putting increased pressure on businesses to keep existing and new customers happy. This pandemic has affected business signage trends in some surprising (and some not so surprising) ways.

Wayfinding Signage

When walking into a building or hospital you’ve never visited before, have you found yourself surprised how easy it was to get where you needed to go without asking anyone? That’s all thanks to wayfinding signage. Wayfinding signage is found everywhere, from the freeway to the elementary school. The pandemic has just increased its usage thanks to the need to decrease contact between people for the sake of social distancing.

Initially, it was perfectly fine for bold and in-your-face wayfinding graphics at the start of the pandemic since it seemed to emphasize the seriousness of the situation. Just look at the banners and custom signage we put together for Williamson County Solid Waste. With their input and our designers, we were able to quickly tell their customers about their updated pickup policies due to COVID-19 while also reminding everyone to use social distancing. Lately, signage designs have since evolved into something more creative now that COVID-19 has unfortunately decided to stick around. Businesses want to continue getting their point across and ensuring they can get everyone where they need to be, but they don’t have to sacrifice their brand or aesthetic in the process.

Directional floor decals we created for the Loews Hotel to encourage social distancing at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Another change in wayfinding signage that has come about is an increase in floor graphics. As materials become more durable, floor graphics like the ones we designed for the Loews Hotel locations are being used more often as an option not only for wayfinding but promotions and advertising as well. It certainly doesn’t hurt that since they’re down on the ground, they’re less likely to be touched, thus lessening the spread of any germs or viruses like COVID-19.

The Retail Industry Boom

When the COVID-19 pandemic is finally under control and people regain some sense of normalcy, the retail industry is expected to go through the roof. More people will be looking to shop locally rather than online, and restaurants will be happy they’re able to seat at total capacity again. The expected flood of consumers into the market will have businesses looking to capture the attention of as many of them as possible through the help of the sign-making industry.

Wall graphics we installed for Farm City Coffee highlights the strength of Nashville as well as the strength of their coffee.

While digital signs are wildly popular due to their low cost, convenience, and high reach, you can’t ignore the impact of a cohesive signage campaign. Think about it: people have been couped up for almost two years due to the pandemic, so now they want something different. They want to be entertained; they want to break the seriousness and monotony of the past two years. Just look what joy the Great Sign Wars of Christianburg, VA, brought to the community.

We’re not saying you have to start your own sign war, but we are saying that if the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that change is inevitable. And having a little creativity and a good sense of humor is the best way to adapt and succeed. Knowing where you’re going sure doesn’t hurt either! If you’re ready to see what changes your business signage could benefit from, send us a message or give us a call.