7 Businesses That Benefit from Window Graphics

Windows aren’t only for looking through. They can be a blank canvas for advertisements. Graphics on windows generate more impressions than those on plain walls since they are in the direct line of sight of those looking into a store. Most businesses have some form of window graphics these days. Here is a look at how many are making the most of their window real estate.

1. Gyms and Recreation Centers

A survey of 2,000 members of the public in 2019 found that 50% of people feel that working out in a gym is a daunting prospect. Feeling out of place and intimidated is why 20% of those who cancel gym memberships decided to stop attending. It follows that gym owners want to reduce the stress of working out in a public place.

Graphics on the front windows of gyms allow natural light to filter into the space while blocking outsiders from looking in and making patrons feel self-conscious. Recreation centers and gyms can also use window graphics for advertising the amenities inside, contribute to their branding efforts and catch the attention of those passing by.

2. Restaurants, Cafés, and Bakeries

Local restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, and other small businesses focus on their outward appearance since many customers come in because of what they see outside. People working or meeting in a café want some amount of privacy from the busy street outside. Window graphics displaying pastries, breakfast deals, or even simple patterns can give a café more character. For example, a place named “Poppies Cafe” could have beautiful poppy flower graphics adorning the windows.

Many cafés have outdoor menus, allowing pedestrians to consider what they might purchase without stepping inside. A window near or on the front entrance provides the perfect place for a menu in vinyl lettering.

3. Retail Stores

When it comes to retail store windows, large-scale advertisements are the most common. The backside of hanging racks and stock shelves aren’t very appealing from the outside. Switch those for large images of people modeling clothing or using sports equipment to increase your brand awareness and attract attention to the store. Large opaque window graphics also keep out hot sunlight during the summer months, lowering air conditioning costs. Whether it’s a beach holiday, mountain adventure, or city scene, window graphics can transport potential customers to where they would use your products.

Some window graphics, also known as decals, can act as more temporary signage. Window decals are perfect for businesses to advertise in-store sales and upcoming events.

4. Tech Outlets

People hardly consider a tech store a tech store unless the majority of the walls are made of glass. The focus on transparency and sleek, modern designs, means that many tech stores don’t have the large walls to display store signage, advertise new products, and increase brand awareness. Fortunately, window wraps allow tech companies to keep their glass and still print store names and advertisements. Logos are also a big part of tech brands and one of the most straightforward window graphics to design.

5. Childcare Centers

A naturally lit space indoors is a crucial feature for many childcare centers. However, large windows cause a problem as they don’t allow privacy and distract children. Additionally, any windows low enough to touch are tough to keep clean. Children love to try to touch things through the glass, leaving greasy finger marks. Having semi-transparent window graphics is an inventive solution. Windows with printed vinyl signs will promote your services while making finger smudges less noticeable, and soap and water can still be used to clean.

6. Salon and Beauty

Beauty parlors can utilize window graphics to promote their business on the outside and provide a more relaxing and secluded atmosphere for clients inside. Window graphics displaying the name of the parlor, opening hours and hairstyling rates can immensely increase the curb appeal of a business. Having to enter and ask how much a haircut will cost or what the hours are can be a barrier to potential customers. A visual design with your information helps attract more business from the outside; while providing a more positive atmosphere inside increases customer retention. 

7. Office Buildings & Sports Arenas

Although some window graphics are smaller scale decals, large printing companies, like Craftsmen Industries, can print any size of window graphic. Glass buildings might consider a large scale installation that covers multiple window panels to display a name, logo, or unique image to convey a message to the public. On the ground level, simple direction signs printed on the window can help visitors navigate the building, find the reception, bathrooms or other destination. The ground level is also a great area to include important information about your business or special events. 

In the end, window graphics contribute to the outward appearance of almost any building, lending more privacy, reducing air conditioning bills, and adding more space for branding and advertising. Opening hours, directions signs and menus make easy and professional editions to small businesses, while large scale advertisements help retail stores stand out from their competition. What graphics could you add to your business’s windows?