At Bowden and Dolphin, design and creative ability go hand-in-hand with the important technical aspects such as construction and installation, to produce bespoke external signage with real impact. We professionally design, manufacture and install all types of outdoor signage for clients across the UK. Whatever the size and type of signage required – whether directional, for car parks, construction, venues or architecture – we have the know-how, expertise and equipment to create the perfect sign for you.
Banners & Canopies
We specialise in catering for bespoke requirements and can make a banner to any size and shape.
We can print, make and install banners of any size with either pole mounted fixings, or hems and eyelets to fix to walls or fix using bungee cords, i.e. to scaffold.
Large banners can be fixed at high level using cherry pickers. We can apply for council permits to use the cherry pickers on council land if required. Alternatively, we can abseil to locations where cherry pickers are not possible.
Canopies can also be made these will be lettered and fixed to your specification to suit the available area.
Bespoke & Architectural Signage
Are you Looking for an Architectural Sign which is Designed Specifically for you?
Bowden and Dolphin Signs can bring architects or designers drawings to life, or work with them to create a design that is practical to manufacture and install.
We can carry out technical surveys to obtain dimensions and determine fixing methods and also provide structural calculations and drawings that are required for your architectural sign.
Directional Signage
Directional signage is crucial for commercial use buildings. Bowden and Dolphin specialise in directional signage for all different sectors.
At Bowden and Dolphin we believe directional signage can have a number of variations and forms depending on the environment.
We provide a range of materials of which your directional signage can be made. For example high stainless steel or glass for shopping centre signage, slat type systems for office signage or basic acrylics for back of house areas in shopping centres.
We design and manufacture directional signage to cater for any budget large or small.
If necessary, we will use building plans or conduct a survey to develop a signage plan that is best for you.
Hoardings
We can either erect the hoarding structure itself or, we can fit to an existing hoarding using graphic panels. Alternatively, if the hoarding has received a suitable treatment of paint, we can apply self-adhesive, printed vinyl sheets.
We can survey the hoarding to obtain dimensions and to work out any angles or slopes that need to be considered. We can either work with your designer to advise them or our team of sign designers can do this.
Monoliths & Totems
Bowden and Dolphin can fabricate monoliths and totems to various sizes and bespoke to your needs. They are ideal for example when your building cannot be seen without obstruction, or if it is set back from a road and they can be placed to advertise your company in advance of arrival and guide customers to you.
All totems or monoliths will be designed and installed to your bespoke specification.
Post & Panel Signs
Post and panel signs are ideal in situations where a sign panel needs to clear a fence for example or at a height to avoid vandalism.
Bowden and Dolphin Signs have a vast range of different signpost systems; we cater for all needs whether you’re looking for a single post with one sign panel or want complete directory signs, we can assist you. Sign panels can be cut and shaped if required and we make sure we incorporate only the best quality materials to give a vibrant and polished look you can be proud of.
We can provide post and panel signage for all different sectors including shopping centre signage, educational signage, health and safety signage and various other sectors.
Traditional Sign Writing
Along with the new technology, our Birmingham team are also skilled traditional sign writers.
This is especially useful for signs in heritage areas or if the area the sign is going onto is not suitable for newer technologies. It maybe that you have a requirement for the sign to be painted on the wall, as opposed to using vinyl letters and we can paint your signage directly onto any surface for you.
Sign Skins
Sign skins are a printed fabric or PVC contained in a specially made extrusion.
The benefit of these over using acrylic panels is that the skin can be produced in one piece as opposed to separate panels, which can sometimes show gaps. The skin can also be illuminated via internal fluorescent tubes or LED within the extrusion. The extrusion can also be powder coated.
Window Graphics
Window graphics are a great way to help your business stand out from the crowd. Imagine walking past your shop, does your signage reflect the image you wish to portray to potential customers? Does it entice them through the door?
Bowden and Dolphin Signs’ team of sign designers can design and develop your window graphics using our advanced, large format printer onto self-adhesive vinyl to decorate windows. Along with this we can also add an etch effect on vinyl manifestations to windows. All graphics are printed in-house using the latest cutting and printing equipment.
We provide a wide range of window graphics from computer cut vinyl graphics to self-adhesive labels.
FAQ’s
What is external signage?
External signs are installed outside of a businesses premises and are sometimes called outdoor signage. They are usually stand-alone and separate to your business, for example a sign that can be seen from the road such as building wraps, shop signs or architectural signage. The opposite of external signage is internal signage which is used inside your business premises.
It could also be signs placed on billboards or hoardings to direct people to your premises or it could be used at an event.
When planning your signage, you also need to take into consideration local authority rules and planning permission so that you don’t have a request to remove your sign before it can work for you. For example, click here to read the guidance given by Birmingham City Council for outdoor signage in the city.
Here at Bowden and Dolphin, we have the knowledge and experience to ensure all signage will be eye-catching whilst complying with all local authority guidance.
Why do you need outdoor signs?
An outdoor sign is important for any business as a marketing tool, as well as a useful aid for your clients and visitors to your premises. Your signage needs to grab the attention of people passing by on the street and draw them into your premises. Signage is also required simply to ensure that your shop isn’t missed when someone is driving by. Our outdoor signs are made bespoke to your order and requirements, using high quality materials to ensure the sign will last for years to come.
Many businesses require outdoor signage, from shops and restaurants and cafes, through to offices and workshops and even schools and colleges to ensure you create that vital positive first impression. These signs can range from pavement signs and totems, through to shop frontages, health and safety signs, estate agent signs and construction site notices as well as advertising signs and billboards.
Outdoor signs can come in all shapes and sizes but our production and quality control processes will ensure the outdoor signs you receive will be in amazing condition every single time.
What are the benefits of external signage?
There are a range of benefits for your business including:
- They’re cost effective: An outdoor sign, unlike other marketing investments is a one-time expense that can advertise your business and its location day and night, all-year round. You don’t need to continue running ads or hope they reach the right people as your outdoor signs will naturally draw people in to your business.
- They target many demographics: With other forms of marketing, you have to do a lot of research to ensure the right audience is being targeted. Your outdoor sign will target any demographic who passes by so can potentially attract a wide range of customers.
- They are non-intrusive: Many other forms of marketing can be intrusive on consumers’ day, whether it is an internet popup that stops them reading the article they are on, to tons of spam emails that have to be sifted through. Signs provide a welcome break from such marketing practices – drawing the eye in a pleasing way. There is no outreach or interaction so customers feel their personal space is respected.
- They drive traffic: A large majority of walk in customers will do so because of good and attractive signage and nothing else. These people who come in on impulse will hopefully love the experience of using your business and will tell their friends and of course word of mouth advertising can be some of the most powerful promotion a business can get.
- They can be personalised: Outdoor signs can be made in a range of styles, sizes and materials and our team of talented professionals can work with you to bring your vision to life. The signs we make will reflect the service philosophy and character of your business, ensuring it stands out from the crowd.
What materials can be used?
With outdoor signage, the types of materials you may use will be different from internal signage as this type of signage can be more exposed to the weather and potential damage from people walking by. However, with creative design and proper fabrication a sign can still be created that is eye catching and durable.
Some of the popular materials used include:
- Aluminium: Aluminium is a good option as it is durable and doesn’t rust and it is also extremely versatile. Whether it is fabricating letter sets, sign cabinets, backers, frames or poles, aluminium can be used for them all. It can also be used as a pole wrapper for free standing signs such as monuments and pylons. Aluminium can also be given textured finishes to mimic the appearance of other materials, such as concrete to stucco.
- Steel: Another popular choice can be steel, although when it’s used it is usually hidden from view and is instead used to provide strength and integrity to the overall sign. For example, steel poles, angles and plates can be used inside monument and pylon signs to help them to withstand heavy wind loads.
- Acrylic and polycarbonate: These are primarily used for letter faces and the backing in routed aluminium faces. It is a translucent material which allows light to pass through and illuminate at night. Vinyl film can also be applied to the faces to either block out light or provide colour.
Are external signs a long-lasting option?
At Bowden and Dolphin we take great pride in ensuring we use the best materials available and the highest quality digital printers and manufacturing processes to ensure that your signs are the perfect outdoor signs for your business and will last for many years to come.
Why choose Bowden and Dolphin?
Bowden and Dolphin are a family-owned business established in Birmingham in 1959. Over our 60 years of trading we have gained a reputation for quality, creativity and reliability.
We understand that choosing the right outdoor business signs for your location and purposes can be daunting but we are here to help you with a complete end to end service from design to installation so you can be sure you are in safe hands. All of our quotes are bespoke to meet your exact needs and requirements.
We ensure we use high-quality, robust materials so that your signage is perfect and stands the test of time for your business. If you are looking for signage for your business premises then we can help you with our competitive pricing. Speak to one of our friendly team today to find out more by calling 0121 773 6000.