1,000 people were presented with a selection of typical shop signage and asked which type would be most likely to catch their eye. 64% said they would be drawn to a store if its sign was neon or used a neon-style design.
“Neon signs have become a huge trend in retail settings and are commonly used to exude fun and give a store a modern yet retro feel,” says Graeme Hoole, head of product development at NeonPlus. “Neon is often associated with parties, which can make shoppers feel happy, excited and encourage them to buy something spontaneously.”
The struggles of the high street have been well-documented in recent years and retailers are struggling to increase footfall in stores.
Whilst it may seem all doom and gloom, this has presented a valuable opportunity for those working in signage and production of point-of-sale products, as innovating in these areas is becoming a key part of making stores more attractive.
The range of colours that neon signs can achieve offer a very stark contrast to the everyday world”
Design consultancy Dalziel and Pow conducted a survey on consumer retail preferences and revealed that 41% of people feel that store ambience is primary over location, friendliness of staff and customer service.
When used correctly, lighting can play a role in influencing mood. In response, retailers have increasingly focused on using bolder designs in their lighting to both reflect the brand and attract more customers.
Will Bartlett is a project manager at retail design agency Prop Studios and commercial interior design agency FormRoom. He comments: “In the digital age, customers have their eyes firmly on their phones, so brands must work harder than ever to capture their attention.
“The range of colours that neon signs can achieve offer a very stark contrast to the everyday world. Our eyes can’t help but be drawn to the unusual. It’s very hard to miss something so bright and unique.”
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