To Wrap or Not to Wrap That is the Question:
Many business owners or entrepreneurs driving around town see wrapped vehicles. Some of these vehicles are for large corporations like Coca-Cola or smaller local companies. There are four main things to think about when deciding to do a vehicle wrap.
First and Foremost is Cost:
Vehicle wraps are costly in comparison to regular vehicle graphics. Do you have the budget? Is this the best way to spend a portion or all your marketing resources?
Questions to ask yourself:
- Is your vehicle visible for long periods of time to the people you want to reach?
- Is your Return on investment going to happen with a few jobs or many jobs?
- How old is your vehicle and what kind of shape is it in?
- Did you budget for design of the wrap and possible logo design if needed?
- Are you ready to commit to a branding look?
If your answers from above lead you to a positive outcome by doing a wrap, then here are the next items to consider.
Your Branding Message and Coverage:
Does your company’s name clearly state what you sell or service? If not a big part of deciding on a wrap design is content or message. So many times, I drive around and see vehicles with ornate color full designs and I can’t read anything about the company or what they do. Our team at Signarama, Libertyville guides the client to make sure their money is spent in the most effective way. We always use the analogy. "I am looking for a 'CLEANERS' not 'MIKES Cleaners'.” As humans we are guilty of scanning or glancing; we never totally read a message in front of us. Your impact to potential clients needs to be clear, fast and effective.
In some cases, I advise client to get a partial wrap instead of a full wrap. Partial wraps can be more effective at displaying messages and cost less than full wraps. One idea is wrapping the body of a van from mid body line down with solid vinyl creating a visual interest area which draws the eye in. We have done these types of wraps for many customers like WURTH, Unique Heating and Cooling, Cook Library, Bosch and Vape-N-Juice to name a few.
Just like your vehicle a wrap is a long-term investment and it sets the tone of your companies branding or look for as long as it is on the road. Be ready to commit to a design and message that should be used and reused. This is especially important for newer companies trying to create brand identity.
Quality Materials and Installation Methods:
As mentioned above this is a big investment being added to an already large investment. It is important to make sure your sign company provides these services and materials:
Signarama, Libertyville provides design services and advise that takes a client’s idea or business goal and incorporates it into a look that is as effective as it is pretty. We can advise a client on colors that are easy to read and contrasting text and logos which pop from the vehicle. We also take the less is more approach in design to make sure the client is not overwhelming the visual space.
As important our designs compliment our installs. What this means is what looks good on paper does not always translate well to a vehicle or might litterly fall off the vehicle. We are careful to create messages that compliment the body of the vehicle and remain very visible while keeping the images clear and impactful. One example of this is the hood “rage”. A lot of clients want their hood wrapped or a logo and phone number applied. In our experience there are only some vehicle that this area is visible even when stopped. Most hoods are flat and don’t create the pitch needed for an effective sightline.
Materials are the most important part of a wrap. We only use cast vinyls with cast overlaminates such as Avery, Oracal and 3M products. These materials are guaranteed for 8-10 years depending on the vehicle storage and use. Think about it this way; if you buy a new car and plan on keeping it for 8-10 years+ then your wrap should last just as long. A wrap can also be a very effective way of safeguarding the paint on the vehicle which can get you more money at trade in time.
Manufacturer approved installation methods and certified installers are all that we use at Signarama, Libertyville. Our installers are a team of individuals with certified training and at least 5+ years of job experience for team leaders and at least 2 years for junior installers. Our teams keep up with the newest technology and tips/products to ensure your wrap last as long as it should. Our goal is to take care of your vehicle like it is our own while it is in our care.
Who is going to drive your new marketing tool?
Whether you are the business owner or and employee you will need to make sure this vehicle is driven with the utmost of caution and etiquette. This vehicle is now plastered with your company name and what goes on with the vehicle effects your brand. I promise the minute you don’t use a turn signal or tailgate your or your boss will hear about it. Now that you have taken the step to grow your business and brand make sure you and your employees take care to show the world just how professional you all are!