Tag Archives: buying signs

What PROBLEM does your sign solve?

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What PROBLEM does your sign solve?

Trying to locate an existing physical business that has no signage can some-times prove extremely frustrating.

Can you relate to the experience of following your GPS to your desired location, and when your GPS politely advises you that you HAVE ARRIVED, you look around and have no clue where the store / factory / warehouse / house / business [fill in your own location] is, because there is no number or no signage to let you know that you are actually where you want to be, because we all know GPS’s are not always perfect and can certainly assist us to get to the incorrect location in the fastest way possible.

If you can relate to this scenario, then it should make it easy to understand that a relatively small investment on a sign would have made the above experience more memorable for the RIGHT reasons, possibly retaining customers or even making the prospective visitor more relaxed, calmer and more pleasant to deal with when they do eventually get to you.

At SignForce we make sigs that help get feet through your door

Contact SignForce NOW to get your obligation free quote by emailing info@signforce.co.za or calling +27 (0)11 440 7525 or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413

Find out more about SignForce at http://www.signforce.co.za

At what point can a prospect or client’s behavior be considered abuse?

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Illuminated Signs

Custom, old fashioned, illuminated signs

At what point can a prospect or client’s behavior be considered abuse?

As a small business every person in the business has to pull their own weight, and possibly a little more. It is assumed this is common knowledge, but if that is the case, why do some prospects (and some client’s) still ask for reduced pricing or other benefits to them that they are either not prepared to pay for or that they should understand will cost the supplier.

It is often said in the retail sector that the client is ALWAYS right. Is this true or is it simply a cop out to make businesses cater to the possibly outrageous requests of a prospective client or an existing client? Even if the saying is correct for retail stores, would it apply to other business to client (end user) businesses?

As a small business we ALWAYS strive to give the best of ourselves. We WANT the business as much as we need it, so we tend to go the extra mile (and then some) to deliver the best products at the best prices – on time and on budget.

And yet, even with this attitude we find existing clients and some prospective new clients who are looking for signage that will ask for the (almost) impossible, and then feel ‘let down’ when the lack of planning on their side results in predictable failures by the suppliers. The question is why should a lack of planning on the side of the prospect or client result in an adrenalin rushing emergency for the supplier, especially if the supplier is not getting paid for the leg work and probably will not get the work in the long run.

How do we as small businesses let the abusive client down in such a way that we don’t necessarily burn all bridges – although this may sometimes be necessary – while not feeling guilty about not doing what the clients want.

There is a lot of information around talking about how everyone should be an entrepreneur, yet there is very little support or information letting people know about the down side of entrepreneurship, the constant work, the constant striving to better everything – service, training, products, customer experience – the self doubt and the loneliness – and lets not forget the RESPONNSIBILITY. The buck ALWAYS stops at the top – unlike politicians who will always promise but never deliver, as they are not always held to account.

This writer is currently feeling alone and struggling with this exact issue – if it is not already evident – and yet we must make decisions and move on.

If you are looking for sign maker and sign installer that will give you their best service and expect payment in return – starting with a deposit to confirm commitment and ensure the business can survive – that would be an entire book, not only a blog – contact SignForce and let us help take away all your signage stress.

Contact SignForce now on info@signforce.co.za or call +27 (0)11 440 7525 or call or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413

The 5 steps to make signs visible

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The 5 steps to make signs visible

The 5 main factors that make signs visible are color, contrast, size, distance and noise

Color

Color refers to both the color of the TEXT as well as the color of the backing of the sign – and also includes other possible ‘noise’ that can distract one’s eye balls from the main intended message of the sign – generally YOUR BUSINESSES NAME ad / or what your business does.

Contrast

Contrast refers to the difference between the color of the LOGO or TEXT of the sign as well as the color of the backing behind the sign. It is great to see subtle logo’s, for example a black on black logo with the backing being matt and the logo or text being gloss, or the other way around – when looking at paper or anything at close range. The low contrast does not always work as expected when the logo to text need to be expanded from a small logo on paper to a much larger sign – not necessarily even a massive sign.

For signage, the greater the contrast, the more visible the sign tends to be, especially from a distance, with the greatest visibility being black on yellow.

Size

The further away from the sign one wants the viewer to be able to read the sign, the larger the logo and text – and hence the sign – need to be.

See the previous blog on the SignForce blog (https://signforce.co.za/blog/big-must-sign/) which give an indication of how large your text or logo should be to be clearly visible from different distances.

The general rule is that the larger the sign the easier it is to read from a distance. That said, it is also possible for a sign to be too large for the available space, or for the sign to be too large for it to be easy legible from the available distance or for the sign to be spaced so far off a backing that it looks gaudy.

Distance

As stated above, the further away from the sign the viewers will be that one needs to read the sign, the larger the sign needs to be.

This is amplified when a sign is going to be installed at height.

The higher the sign the larger it needs to be as height tends to be a double whammy when it comes to visibility. It is quite simple to understand that the higher the sign the further it is from the viewer, (think of Pythagoras’s theory), the not so simple part is that the same sign at the same distance that looks large always looks smaller when the sign is installed at height. This writer has no explanation for this phenomena.

Noise

Noise or visual pollution or visual distraction all refer to anything that can challenge a viewer’s attention, distracting the viewer’s eye balls from the intended message – ‘polluting’ their attention. Noise can refer to a complex design that distracts from the intended message or it can mean the font is too sophisticated or too artistic to be read at a glance, or a number of other distractions from the intended message.

At SignForce we focus on getting your message across to your intended audience in a way that will add income to your bottom line – in other words making your sign an investment.

Contact SignForce now to get your signs that work. SignForce is available at info@signforce.co.za or you can call +27 (0)11 440 7525 or you can WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413

Find out more about SignForce by visiting http://www.signforce.co.za


SignForce belief in the Value of Mentoring and Training

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A SignForce Insight into the Value of Mentoring in the Signage Industry

At SignForce, our belief in the transformative power of mentoring within the signage industry is unwavering. For SignForce, mentoring transcends mere knowledge transfer – it’s about nurturing growth, fostering innovation, and cultivating a supportive community with the ultimate objective being that is or when the current management leave or die, all team members have the necessary skill and training to take over the running of the business – in other words, sustainability – or for all team members to be in a position AT ANY TIME to go on their own and open their own signage business in order to compete with SignForce and take care of their respective families.

With a legacy spanning over two decades, SignForce has seamlessly integrated mentoring into the fabric of our operations, underpinning our sustained success and prominence in the market, and we believe is one of the reasons we have a loyal team with all of whom have been in long service with SignForce.

Empowering Innovation and Creativity at SignForce

Mentoring at SignForce extends far beyond the fundamentals of sign design and installation. Mentoring at SignForce represents a commitment to inspire our team members to exceed the conventional boundaries of creativity and technical prowess, instilling a sense of LETS TRY as this is the only way we could innovate and come up with possible method changing prospects. Leveraging SignForce’s rich reservoir of knowledge, we encourage industry novices to devise innovative solutions, ensuring every project not only mirrors our client’s aspirations but also showcases the abilities of our team members – past and current.

Cultivating a Cohesive Professional Network with SignForce

The essence of mentoring and training at SignForce is fundamental to our role of fostering a closely-knit network. At SignForce we champion the potency of caring and robust relationships – spanning all team members, both mentors and mentees, and our esteemed clients. These relationships are essential in bolstering collaboration, equipping SignForce to navigate complex projects with unparalleled confidence and dexterity – both essential to survive in the South African and signage market in general.

Upholding Excellence and Uniformity at SignForce

Excellence and consistency are the cornerstones of SignForce’s established reputation. SignForce’s dedication to mentoring and consistent training is at the foundation in cascading SignForce’s core values across generations of signage makers and users within our ranks. This unwavering dedication upholds SignForce’s high standards and also magnifies our commitment to delivering the most extraordinary customer experiences we can. Through mentoring and constant training SignForce ensures that every sign we create, from its initial concept to the final installation, serves as a testament to unmatched quality, embodying SignForce’s legacy of excellence. At SignForce we take pride of our work as there are very few experiences that in-still pride like the feeling that comes from driving past a sign that has withstood and successfully passed the test of time.

The Indelible Impact of Mentoring at SignForce

In essence, the significance of mentoring and training is core to SignForce’s ethos and values. Mentoring and training are a critical component of SignForce’s blueprint for success, nurturing a culture of growth, innovation, our unwavering sense of unity and our drive to ensure sustainability.

When you are looking to have your brand stand out, contact SignForce immediately on info@signforce.co.za or call +27 (0)11 440 7525 or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413

Find out more about SignForce by visiting http://www.signforce.co.za

How simple is Signage and the Sign Industry?

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Halo illuminated 3D wall sign

halo illuminated 3D sign

It’s been said before in this SignForce space that signage is a REALLY simple industry, well until it IS NOT!!

This writer was reminded of this point this week when a client sent through a request for an urgent sign.

The brief was in fact more detailed than many as it included required materials, sizes and a sample picture showing the desired effect.

Where the challenge came is that the sample is all based in clear acrylic and is NOT illustrated. Our client wanted their sign to be halo illuminated.

What this means is that there will be a halo of light reflecting off the wall behind the sign.

For anyone reading this that is interested in the technical details, with halo effect lighting the face of the sign will often appear as black or dark as the lighting creates a shadow of the face.

This client wanted the face of the sign to appear in their corporate blue. On top of this challenge, in this writers opinion, when it comes to illuminated signs there is very little that is more off putting than being able to clearly see the strip of light or the LED modules themselves, especially if through the face of the sign. It is (once again in this writers opinion) extremely distracting and certainly detracts from the intended message of the sign.

This sign thus required a number of processes, with a fair amount of trial and test to ensure the client will be happy with a sign that reflects their professionalism and image, in their corporate colour while being halo illuminated.

When you are in the market for a STAND OUT sign that accurately reflects your brand and corporate image, SignForce are the sign business to call.

Contact SignForce now on info@signforce.co.za or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413 or call 0)11 440 7525

Find out more about SignForce at http://www.signforce.co.za

Why is My Sign So Expensive?

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Printed Sandblast Effect Vinyl

Impressive Printed Sandblast Entrance Sign

The Value Behind Your SignForce Investment

When evaluating the cost of a sign, it’s natural to wonder about the pricing, and even if a sign is an essential business assets. At SignForce, we’re committed to revealing the true value behind every sign we create. More than a mere sign, it represents your brand, serving as a long-term investment in your business’s visibility and reputation.

Quality Materials: The Foundation of Excellence

The durability and impact of a sign depend on the quality of materials used. At SignForce we pride ourselves on selecting materials not just for their appearance but for their longevity and resilience. From weather-resistant materials to vibrant, fade-resistant original Roland inks, and energy-efficient LED lighting, our choices ensure your sign withstands the elements, even in the extreme South African sun. This focus on high-quality materials often leads to a higher upfront cost but results in fewer replacements and repairs, saving money over time, making the up front investment a better, more cost effective long term investment.

Custom Design: Tailored to Your Unique Brand

Your business’s unique identity deserves to be reflected in your signage. Custom design is a significant factor in the cost of your sign. SignForce’s team collaborates with you to craft a sign that encapsulates your brand and also distinguishes your sign in the market. This process, involving meticulous planning, creative design, and precise execution, demands time and expertise, which we at SignForce believe we are worth being compensated for.

Skilled Craftsmanship: The Essence of Your Sign

Each SignForce sign is a product of skilled craftsmanship. Our artisans, experienced in their craft, blend traditional skills with modern techniques to create visually compelling and robust signs that make your BRAND stand out and draw potential clients to your business. This human touch in sign-making ensures each sign embodies quality and character, making it a symbol of your brand’s identity.

Long-Term Value: An Investment in Your Business

A sign from SignForce is an investment in your business’s future. Beyond the initial cost, a well-crafted sign draws customers, enhances your brand identity, and signals your commitment to style and quality. The long-term benefits in brand visibility and customer engagement far outweigh the cost, especially compared to standard signs that do not elevate your brand and are not likely to last long.

Conclusion: A Partnership in Your Brand’s Success

At SignForce, we view our role as your partner in success. We focus on delivering signs that add value both aesthetically and also as effective business growth tools as your brand becomes recognized. Choosing SignForce means investing in a quality, durable, custom sign that supports your business for years to come.

Your sign often creates the first impression of your business, and with SignForce, it’s an enduring one. SignForce ensure your sign investment enhances brand recognition and customer engagement, affirming the lasting impact of your choice.

Contact SignForce now on info@signforce.co.za or call +27 (0)11 440 7525 or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413

Find out more about SignForce by visiting http://www.signforce.co.za

Where is the VALUE in your SIGNAGE?

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Illuminated Signs

Custom, old fashioned, illuminated signs

Where is the VALUE in your SIGNAGE?

Ever stopped to contemplate where the VALUE in your SIGN is?

What about your sign makes it an INVESTMENT versus an EXPERNSE?

I was recently reminded that as people we tend to focus on (1) NOW, and (2) diminish ourselves. Stated differently, when we focus on NOW we tend to focus on where we are CURRENLY in a specific place, we project that we will ALWAYS be in the same place – literally – even if we know we will physically be in a different place tomorrow. A different way of stating we DIMINISH OURSELVES is that we tend to elevate others and put ourselves down. A simple example of this is forgetting the skills we have – to change a light bulb, fix a car, post on the internet – whatever – because we believe that if I CAN DO IT, ANYONE CAN DON IT. This is not true. Every one of us has at least ONE specific skill that very few other people will have. Also, too often we BELIEVE the AMRKETING that is presented to us – so we BELIEVE that everyone else has a better life, something we don’t – so we don’t see how we can add value to anyone else.

You may be wondering WHAT all this has to do with SIGNAGE – so let me explain.

When you purchase a sign, you may believe you are ONLY getting the physical sign that gets delivered and or installed, because that is what you SEE. However, in reality the delivered END PRODUCT is exactly that – the END PRODUCT. The END product is what comes after EVERYTHING before the end product – all the design, the planning, the manufacturing without which the end product would either not exist or not be as it is.

Why should this interest you, and more to the point, why should you be be concerned about the process as much as the end product?

Have you ever heard about a Friday Alpha Romeo, or a Monday Alpha, or a Mercedes, or a Rolls Royce? Why do all of these names ring a bell? They all ring a bell because people see them, because they have PERCEIVED value and because of the PERCEIVED STATUS attached to each of the named products.

What about DeLorean, Bahia, Badedas, South African Airways and South African Railways. If you have not heard of these businesses it may be that you are not in South Africa, or it could be because they are all BUST, BROKE and going out of business, many due to lack of qualified management, but some because the products they sold were not up to scratch or they were not competitive in a world where competition is everywhere.

The latter list tended to focus only on the END RESULT, but did not give sufficient attention to the PROCESS, the list of little steps that are needed for the end product to exist.

For signage one of the PROCESS elements is the sales person, the person who makes the suggestions as to what type of signage you require to MEET YOUR SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS. If the business sign you order and receive is almost free but does NOT achieve your objective – whatever your objective is, it does not matter what the sign cost, it can be considered an EXPENSE as it cost you money but is not generating the money you hoped it would generate – in which case the sign or signs would qualify as an INVESTMENT.

At SignForce we have over two decades of experience in signage, keeping abreast of the local and international trends as well as what materials are available, not only in our primary market in South Africa, but also internationally.

Another benefit of working with SignForce is the years of MARKETING experience that we have acquired over the years in the signage business. But that is not all. The main sales people at SignForce also have years of marketing experience that comes from studying marketing and practical psychology, AND putting those studies into practice.

When you come to SignForce for SIGNAGE you are privy to our years of experience in making and psychology which is why we can design and produce signs that WORK and can thus be considered INVESTMENTS.

Now one concern we do have at SignForce is that we are often perceived as being expensive. This may be because a competitor may be able to produce a sign at a lower cost than we can. The issue is the INFORMATION CAPITAL that comes with the signs that SignForce design and manufacture, because, while signage is a simple industry, it is only simple for simple signs, and when it is not simple it is very quick to become overwhelmingly complicated.

At SignForce we strive to keep the system SIMPLE for YOU, our client.

If you are looking for signage that works, SignForce is the signage business to work with.

Contact SignForce now on info@signforce.co.za or call +27 (0)11 440 7525 or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413

Find out more about SignForce by visiting http://www.signforce.co.za

Will SIGNAGE survive the current AI revolution

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3D sign

White, Illuminated 3D sign

Will SIGNAGE survive the current AI revolution

If you are alive and online – which we can assume you are if you are seeing and reading this post – you MUST have heard of AI (artificial intelligence) and how it is likely to reshape the workplace and employment in the future – both foreseeable and long term.

When asked if Signage will survive the current AI revolution, ChatGPT answered as follows: “Absolutely! While artificial intelligence is revolutionizing many aspects of business and technology, signage serves a different purpose entirely. Signage is a tangible and physical way for businesses to communicate their brand, products, and services to customers. Signs can be seen, touched, and experienced in a way that AI cannot replicate. Additionally, many signs are designed to be aesthetically pleasing, which is not a task that AI has yet mastered. So, rest assured that signage will continue to be a vital part of businesses for many years to come, even in the age of AI. “

This writer tends to agree with ChatGPT, but not necessarily for the same reasons.

While there are AI programs and Apps available that can CREATE wonderful pictures, logo’s and pieces of art, all of which can be incorporated into modern signage, it is the physical creation (or manufacturing) that has yet to be repalced by a machine.

Yes, there are computer based tools such as 3D printers and benders that can help create a 3D sign, but at this time – and for the foreseeable future, it does not look likely that sign makers will be replaced by robots. Good news for sign makers, not necessarily such good news for customers as when items are not made by machines they tend to be more costly.

This is definitely the case when it comes to signage, especially since the vast majority of signs are custom – custom look, custom design, custom feel and custom size – there is very little chance of an affordable robot taking over the physical work that is necessary when making most, especially 3D, signs.

One can ask if signs will be required in the future, especially as the world moves to digital which can do so much and is fast becoming more and more affordable. This writer believes that digital signs will be used more and more to sell – lifestyles, products, services and time – BUT for the foreseeable future BUSINESSES will still be physical – people want to touch and smell and feel – which cannot be created online, and as long as people want to touch they will want to go to physical stores (or physical destinations) which will most likely continue to want signs to make customers, prospective customers and suppliers aware of where you are. People want to SEE your business.

To find out how SignForce can assist your business to make itself visible contact SignForce now on info@signforce.co.za or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413 or call +27 (0)11 440 7525

http://www.signforce.co.za

Why would any entrepreneur want to get into the signage industry

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Why would any entrepreneur want to get into the signage industry

There are a number of positive reasons to get into the signage business.

In the modern world where AI is starting to impact a large number of opportunities, signage included, the manufacture and installation of signage is still very labour intensive. Design of signage is definitely being threatened by AI, and this could well have an impact on sign businesses, but from the writers experience AI generated signs are not yet very practical to manufactured, so for the foreseeable future humans will still be required to manufacture signage.

Another advantage of the signage industry is there are advances being made which include digital boards that are becoming more and more popular.

Some factors potential entrepreneurs should be aware of when planning on opening a sign business include location, equipment and machinery, licensing, regulations and compliance administration, advertising, networking, staffing and administration.:

Location: While location is currently less concerning than it has been in the past, with the move to buying local there is a good chance that in the future location will once again become a large factor in costing and people’s requirements for signage. When considering location a potential signage entrepreneur should consider the location of their sign business and the proximity to their target customers as it may become increasingly important to find a location that is convenient to customers who will likely use their services, especially if they are relying on customers to come in off the street.

Equipment: Having the right equipment, machines and sign making tools is essential for a sign business. Potential entrepreneurs should decide what type of signage they will offer and then research the cost and availability of the necessary tools and machines. Depending on the business model and type of signage the sign business intends to market and manufacture, the sign making tools required may vary.

Licensing, Regulation and Administration: Depending on the location of the sign shop, there may be specific licensing and regulation requirements for sign businesses. Potential entrepreneurs should research the specific requirements for their area – be it country or state – and prepare to meet any applicable regulations. This is increasingly important when one wants top be compliant in a country such as South Africa where, unless the correct hands are greased, government and large business contracts will only be issued to businesses that are compliant with a huge number of laws and regulations. In current day South Africa an entrepreneur who intends to remain compliant needs to plan and budget for sufficient compliance staff to remain compliant.

Advertising: Advertising is an important part of running any business, with a sign business being no exception. Potential signage entrepreneurs should consider how they will advertise their services and reach potential customers – see also your intended market. Advertising may vary from networking to online PPC to printed or digital media to name a small number of options.

Networking: Networking with other sign businesses, suppliers, and potential customers can help a sign business grow. Potential signage entrepreneurs should research local networking opportunities and take advantage of them. Sign entrepreneurs should also look at networking with other signage businesses, especially if located in countries like south Africa with shrinking economies or if located in outlying area’s where networking can help the sign business with materials, techniques and other sign industry related updates that may not get to outlying sign businesses.

People. It is believed that every business, sign businesses included, require three main components – like legs of a tripod. Marketing, Finance and People. Marketing covers all types of selling, finance includes ensuring you have sufficient capital to carry the business through the first months of operation – including understanding that not all clients will be paying on time – and employing the correct staff or contractors. If the right people are employed the business can thrive. Likewise, poor recruiting decisions can be extremely costly to the point of closing down a sign business.

Administration – also called accounting or finance – is ensuring that there is a constant flow of cash. Most businesses that die die as a result of poor cash flow. It is as important for the sign business to sell at a profit – important part of administration and sales – as it is to collect the money, as in the modern world it is increasingly common for payments to be delayed, and delayed payments can cost the sign business both in terms of relationships and lack of cash flow.

If you are looking to enter the signage industry SignForce, with almost 40 years experience, are willing to talk.

Contact SignForce now on info@signforce.co.za or WhatsApp +27 (0)82 558 6413 or visit

the SignForce website at http://www.signforce.co.za

What VLAUE does your SIGN and your Signage provider ADD to your BUSINESS?

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Mambo's Chicken Individual Cut Out Sign

Internally Illuminated 3D cut out sign

What VALUE does your sign add to your business?

If your sign is a MAJOR tool in getting feet into your store (it is!) and thus placing you in the position to SELL to your prospects, what is your sign truly WORTH?

I ask this, not rhetorically, but because all too often we see businesses running on the lines of Best Value – choosing the cheapest supplier – which is great when comparing EXACTLY THE SAME PRODUCTS – but is extremely difficult and can be costly when one is comparing one SERVISE business (signage is a service business) to another.

Yes, when you, the sign buyer, are presented with an artist impression and a quote, you believe that what you are seeing from one service provider is the same as what you are seeing from the competitive service provider. Unfortunately this is SELDOM true. This is because of the nature of signage (meant in every positive way), the range of materials available, the nature (you can call it morals) of the signage company and the reality that even if all else was equal, because signage is as much – if not more – of an art than a science, and most signs are made by hand, every sign will most likely be made differently.

All this aside, even if all the sign company’s you assessed were using the same material, charging the same amount and doing the same job, what would or should YOUR chosen sign company be able to offer YOUR BUSINESS that goes beyond the sign you are looking for.

At SignForce (http://www.signforce.co.za) we have decades of experience in MARKETING and SIGNAGE.

At SignForce we believe in supporting OUR CUSTOMERS, which is one of the reasons SignForce regularly posts pictures and comments of signs we have completed. This may not seem like anything special, we assume ALL sign businesses ‘self promote’ and the self promotion entails ‘SHOWCASING’ THEIR WORK. This is true, but how many sign businesses get more than 80,000 views of a single client’s sign.

If one considers that traditional media base their fees on the number of views one’s insert (advert, post) will receive, how does one measure the added value SignForce is offering our client’s?

If you are looking for signs that WORK, that get feet into your premises, that look good and are value for money, together with the added value of being promoted on the SignForce website, contact SignForce now on +27 (0)11 440 7525 or email info@signforce.co.za

You can find out more about SignForce by visiting http://www.signforce.co.za