3 Types of Window Graphics for Your Retail Business

For many businesses, windows are simply a source of natural light and a view to the world outside. But for retail businesses, windows have always been a sales and marketing opportunity. They literally showcase your goods, and in some cases they give passersby a glimpse into your store’s interior. Now you can expand the versatility and value of your windows, with window graphics.

Window graphics promote your business and your merchandise, and they reinforce your branding. That’s because visuals have a magnetic appeal. They’re eye-catching, and the right visuals invite people to put themselves in the picture. Your picture.

You’re probably using some type of window graphics already. But did you know there are actually three different styles you could be using? Read on, to find out how you can use each of them to make the most of your windows.

1. Decals.

Adhesive decals have long been used to post basic information where anyone can easily access it at any time — store hours, emergency numbers and so on. Decals can be mounted on the inside or outside, usually placed on entrance door glass or in the window right next to the door so they’re easily seen.

But what if you’re looking for greater promotional value? Or, for one reason or another, you want to cover your windows? There are window graphics for that, too.

2. Banners.

Another popular options, banners can be used in-window or in-store. They’re excellent for making a temporary-but-colorful splash – introducing a new product, sales events or special promotions, seasonal decoration. But they’re equally valuable to reinforce more general branding. Incorporate the latest technology by imprinting a QR code, like you do in a print ad or on a poster, linking to a special offer just for passersby.

3. Films and window shade systems.

The latest – and many would say the greatest – addition to the window graphics line-up is actually two products: window films and window shade systems. You can use them to augment in-store banners and POS materials, or use them instead of banners. But these window graphics can do so much more, accomplishing multiple purposes with a single investment.

If you use blinds for shade or privacy, why not advertise on those blinds and double their value? Window shades protect merchandise and furnishings from the sun’s heat and UV rays. They give workers privacy at their desks, and diners privacy so they don’t feel they’re on display while they’re having coffee or a romantic dinner. New high-tech window graphics can do that without cutting off your view of the street or other scenery, because they’re made of a special one-way-vision mesh.

You can see out, but people can’t see in. And you can advertise on the exterior, giving you window graphics for permanent display or to roll up and down as you want. Use them to:

  • Draw attention to your window displays.
  • Create a visual “display” where windows don’t lend themselves to a physical arrangement of your goods or where your stuff is too big for a window display.
  • Complement your awnings — especially important because folks at street level can’t see the top-side of your awning.
  • Display timely messages – “appointments available today” or “last day to get your free sample.”
  • Display timeless messages – two or three bullets that describe your primary products or services or value-added services.
  • Show people using and enjoying your merchandise. Window graphics are ideal for mouth-watering, larger-than-life photos of your new appetizers, beauty shots of your new product line, etc.

Use them on indoor windows, too, such as “private” offices in banks or other businesses with glass walls. Customers can’t see into the office, but managers can easily keep an eye on the business area or sales floor. Use the graphics to upsell customers while they’re already inside and shopping.

Have you thought of new ways you can use window graphics?

Commercial Awnings