Case Study: Transforming Pattersons’ Signage with High-Impact Vinyl Graphics

Project Overview

Pattersons, a well-known business in our Bristol area, approached us, with the goal of updating their external signage. The primary objective was to refresh the appearance of their building’s exterior and clearly identify the entrance to their trade counter. The project involved installing vinyl graphics on the glass panels above the entrance doors and applying new wall graphics to the side of the building, as well as updating the totem sign at the entrance.

Client Needs

Pattersons required a signage solution that would not only enhance the visibility of their trade counter entrance but also commemorate their 135th anniversary. The client sought durable materials that could withstand outdoor conditions and maintain their vibrancy over time. We used specialist vinyls which are designed to be used outdoors for extended periods of time (years). Not all vinyls are equal and unless the correct material is selected, it’s very easy to produce a design which will initally look great but in a year or so it’ll look sub-optimal.

Design and Installation Process

The design process began with a detailed brief provided by Pattersons, outlining their vision for the new signage. Our in-house graphic design team then transformed this brief into comprehensive colour visuals. These visuals were meticulously crafted to showcase how the finished signage would look in situ, including full specifications that highlighted features which might not be immediately apparent on screen. This ensured that both our team and the client had a clear and shared understanding of the final product. This is something we produce for all of our customers, full colour visuals, in order to ensure that we’re all on the same page.

For the installation, safety was a top priority. Signet Signs Ltd. began by carefully removing the outdated graphics on the side of the building. This required the use of specialist cleaning chemicals to ensure the cladding was properly prepared for the new application. For the new wall graphics, we selected a specialist material specifically designed to adhere to low-energy surfaces, ensuring a long-lasting finish even in the challenging outdoor environment.

Given the height and positioning of the signage, our IPAF-certified team members utilised a scaffold tower to safely access the area. This approach allowed us to carry out the installation efficiently and securely, adhering to the highest safety standards. As a note, all of our teams have IPAF and PASMA certified team members to ensure we’re installing safely and competently.

For the glass panels above the entrance, we designed and installed clear, bold vinyl graphics that make the trade counter easily identifiable from a distance. The design was modern and aligned with Pattersons’ branding, incorporating their logo and vibrant colours.

Challenges and Solutions

One of the primary challenges was dealing with the surface of the building’s cladding, which required careful preparation to ensure the new graphics would adhere properly. The existing graphics needed to be removed and having been in place for many years we knew they were not going to come off easily.
Thankfully we have a range of adhesive removers which can be sprayed onto the vinyl & left to soak in.  These can help loosen the old vinyls grip on the cladding without resorting to scraping / slicing it off.  In short, it takes a bit less time and effort but we use more chemicals. The end result is much better as there are no scratches / scrapes from impliments being used to remove the old vinyl.

Even with the adhesive remover, this vinyl was well and truely stuck in place and it took a lot of time to fully clean off the old.  However, by using the appropriate cleaning agents and materials we were able to achieve a flawless finish that not only looks great but is also clean of debris.

Window Graphics

Cut vinyl window graphics applied to the outside face of the glass. We applied to the outside face as the glass is tinted and if the vinyl were applied to the inside face it would not be very visible. Look at the white display posters in the lower half of the window to see example of this.

Totem Sign Update

The graphics on the totem sign at the entrance to Pattersons (Bristol) were removed and updated with new relevant information. We try to design our totem signs with cut vinyl graphics, which then allows the totem to be updated in the future without needing an entire new sign.

Wide Format Printed Outdoor Graphics

We utilised a specialist vinyl so that it would adhere to the low energy surface of the buildings cladding. Cheap ‘normal’ vinyls just won’t do the trick as they’ll start letting go of the surface within a year or so.  With this vinyl, we then printed the graphics and protected them with a clear matt laminate.  The laminate not only seals the graphics but also dramatically reduces the amount of glare on the sign, allowing it to be more easily read at all times.

Outcome

The result was a striking transformation of Pattersons’ external signage. The new graphics clearly mark the trade counter entrance, making it more accessible for customers. The large wall graphic celebrating Pattersons’ 135th anniversary is a prominent feature that enhances brand visibility and adds a touch of elegance to the building.

Pattersons expressed great satisfaction with the outcome, noting that the updated signage has significantly improved the building’s appearance and customer experience.

Local Impact

The newly installed signage is strategically positioned to be highly visible to thousands of people travelling along Winterstoke Road, a major thoroughfare in Bristol. This prominent placement not only enhances the visibility of Pattersons’ trade counter but also serves as an effective marketing tool, reinforcing their brand presence in the local area. By updating their signage, Pattersons can now attract more attention from passers-by, further solidifying their status as a key business in Bristol.