In the age of fabric banners, you might ask yourself if the vinyl banner has become extinct. Fortunately, vinyl advertising banners are still available and still the best option in certain marketing situations. They are used for many different purposes. If they're made well, they can hold up quite nicely for quite a long time. Banners constructed of vinyl tend to be more affordable than fabric ones, so selecting this material is a great way to stretch your advertising budget!
You've Got Options!
PVC, or polyvinyl, banners are made in different weights. Lightweight vinyl is perfect or indoor use. Heavy duty type serves as the perfect display for outdoors. Weights start at 8 oz. and go up to 22 oz. Heavier banners usually contain a block--out layer that allows for printing on both sides. This is a terrific way to get your money's worth in marketing use! You have the option of printing the same thing on both sides and printing two different messages.
Vinyl banners can also be made of perforated material that is known as "mesh". A mesh banner will stand up to windy conditions outside because the air can pass through it with no problem. This type is very useful or any sort of outdoor event. One will stay put once you've placed them where you want them.
They also come in perforated material known as mesh banner material. These allow some wind load slippage when the wind blows, typically about 15 to 20%, making them a favorite for outdoor events such as fairs or sporting events or in areas where the wind is perpetually blowing. You may find vinyl banners that have been manufactured with "wind pockets". These do not perform up to the standards of mesh banners.
You'll have the choice between a glossy or matte finish for your banner. A glossy finish works just fine on a printed display that will be used outside, but most customers prefer a matte finish for indoor use. Those with a matte finish have less of a shine, are easy to read, and don't have the appearance of plastic.
Vinyl Banners Have Many Uses
Some businesses use vinyl banners routinely. Construction companies use them to announce projects on site. The "Coming Soon" banners get the attention of passersby and create interest in the new building. Real estate companies use PVC banners to advertise commercial spaces that are available. It's a great way to spread the news of availability to all who pass the space.
Retail stores have been using these displays for decades to announce sales or to promote a new product or service. Whether you are advertising a new sandwich at a cafe or a big tool sale at a hardware store, vinyl banners deliver your message to customers clearly.
They are also used extensively at trade shows. In a matte finish, PVC banners can represent your brand in a bold and bright fashion that will attract attention. Many trade show attendants have started using fabric banners, but vinyl banners still do the trick for a lower price.
The list of possible uses is endless. They’re available in whatever size you require and technology has made it possible to print on vinyl with amazing detail and vivid color.
Vinyl advertising banners are also used extensively in retail environments, announcing a big sale or a new product. We helped Stanley Tool roll out a new product in Lowe’s Home Improvement Stores using hundreds of these, printed full-color on our digital printing presses.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Barry K. Brown has been in the Sign, Banner, Decal and Display Business for over 20 years. It isn't what he thought he'd do with his life, but he says he knows too much now to do anything else!
He has been marketing these products online since 1998, and the company he was general manager of in 1998 was the first sign company to be listed on Yahoo!
