Opening a new business location is an exciting milestone—but with so many moving parts, it’s easy to overlook one of the most important investments you’ll make: signage. The right signs don’t just mark your space—they attract customers, guide them through your space, reinforce your brand, and keep you compliant.
At FASTSIGNS® Independence in Charlotte, we’ve helped hundreds of local businesses launch new locations with signage packages that are complete, compliant, and customer-focused. Whether you’re opening a storefront, office, restaurant, or clinic—these 10 essential signs should be on your checklist from day one.
1. Exterior Building Signage
Your main building sign is the most critical piece of your exterior visibility. Whether you choose channel letters, cabinet signs, or halo-lit logos, this sign should reflect your brand and be visible day and night.
Tip: Make sure it complies with local zoning and landlord guidelines—our team handles permitting to make this process seamless.
2. Temporary “Coming Soon” and “Now Open” Signs
Before your permanent signage is ready, temporary banners, window graphics, or A-frames can build anticipation and draw early foot traffic. Don’t open your doors without letting the neighborhood know you’re there.
3. Window Graphics and Storefront Messaging
Use vinyl graphics to display your logo, business hours, website, or service highlights on your windows and doors. These reinforce your branding and provide key info to walk-by traffic.
Bonus: Frosted vinyl also adds privacy and a high-end finish to glass interiors or conference rooms.
4. Monument or Pylon Sign Inserts
If your new space is in a shopping center or multi-tenant development, you’ll likely need a panel insert for the shared monument or pylon sign. This boosts visibility from the road and gives your brand a presence before customers even see your storefront.
5. Interior Directional Signage
Especially important for office buildings, medical practices, or multi-tenant spaces, wayfinding signage helps customers and guests find your suite, restrooms, exits, or check-in counters without confusion.
6. ADA-Compliant Signs
By law, you’ll need certain signage to meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. These include tactile room ID signs (with Braille), proper mounting heights, and contrast guidelines.
FASTSIGNS® Independence provides fully compliant ADA signs that are both functional and visually aligned with your brand.
7. Reception or Lobby Signage
As customers enter your space, your interior logo wall or reception sign sets the tone. Dimensional logos, acrylic panels, or brushed metal signs create a polished, professional feel—and reinforce your brand the moment someone walks in.
8. Office, Room, or Department Identification Signs
Labeling offices, meeting rooms, or departments helps create an organized, professional environment. This also helps new staff and clients feel confident navigating your space.
9. Safety and Compliance Signage
Ensure your location includes all required safety signage, including:
- Exit signs
- Fire extinguisher markers
- “Employees Only” or “Authorized Personnel” signs
- Hand washing and hygiene signs (especially for restaurants or healthcare)
Compliance builds trust—and protects you from potential fines.
10. Promotional and Point-of-Sale Signage
Once you’re open, signage continues to work for you inside the store. Highlight special offers, new products, or customer education using posters, hanging signs, menu boards, or digital displays.
Strategically placed signs influence purchasing decisions and improve the customer experience.
Your new location deserves more than just a sign on the door. A complete signage strategy supports your brand, operations, safety, and sales from day one. At FASTSIGNS® Independence, we handle everything—from design and permitting to fabrication and installation—so you can focus on launching your business with confidence.
Opening a new location in Charlotte or nearby?
Let’s make sure your signs are as ready as your business. Contact FASTSIGNS® Independence today for a full signage consultation tailored to your new space.
