When the colder months arrive, foot traffic slows, and businesses often see a dip in sales. One of the most effective ways to keep customers engaged and draw them in during winter is by using eye-catching banners in Portland. With the right design, placement, and message, banners can help businesses stand out in gloomy weather, advertise seasonal offers, and keep customers walking through the door.
Winter in Portland and the surrounding areas often means gray skies, early sunsets, and fewer people stopping by local shops. It’s easy for a storefront to blend into the background this time of year. That’s where banners add color, energy, and visibility to your business when everything else feels a little dull.
In this blog post, we’ll share a few simple, practical tips to help your winter banners make your business hard to miss, whether you’re promoting a holiday sale, clearing out last season’s stock, or showing off a new winter collection.
1. Choose Weather-Resistant Materials
Winters are usually known for rain and wind, so durability is key. Use vinyl or mesh banners that withstand moisture and cold without fading or tearing. Mesh banners are particularly helpful outdoors since they allow wind to pass through, preventing damage or sagging.
Quick Tip: Ask your printer for UV-resistant inks to keep colors vibrant even under overcast skies.
2. Use Bold, High-Contrast Colors
The natural light is dim in winter, and the surroundings are often gray. Bright, bold colors stand out more and help your banner pop. Think of rich reds, blues, and yellows paired with white or black text for maximum readability.
Pro Tip: Test how your design looks from a distance. If the text isn’t instantly readable, simplify it or increase contrast.
3. Keep the Message Short and Focused
People don’t stop to read long text on a banner, especially outdoors. Keep your message clear and action-oriented.
Examples include:
Limit your banner to five to seven words and ensure your business name or logo is visible.
4. Highlight Seasonal Offers and Events
Winter and themed marketing are a perfect match. People are already in the mindset to shop for holidays, gifts, and end-of-year deals, so use that energy to your advantage.
-
Promote limited-time offers: Highlight holiday discounts or clearance sales.
-
Announce special events: Winter pop-ups, charity drives, or product launches.
You can let the season do some of the talking, give your banner a bit of seasonal character. Include details people notice when they're out and about—snow on the shop windows, soft lights, a warm red trim. It doesn't have to be polished or loud. A small change like that makes folks pause for half a second, and that's usually all you need.
5. Think About Placement
Even the most beautiful banner won’t help if people can’t see it. Choose high-traffic areas where your target audience is likely to be, such as busy streets, store entrances, or local markets. Indoors, hang banners near checkout counters or product displays to encourage impulse purchases.
Smart Idea: Use retractable or hanging banners at tradeshows and winter fairs to draw people to your booth. These banners are portable, easy to set up, and perfect for indoor winter events.
6. Incorporate Lighting for Extra Impact
When the days get shorter and the evenings stretch out, a couple of small LED spots aimed just right or a simple backlight can keep your banner visible when the streetlights flick on. It doesn't need to be fancy—just enough so your message isn't swallowed by the night.
7. Align Your Banners with Online Promotions
Many businesses run digital campaigns during the winter. Extend your message by mirroring those online offers on your physical banners. For instance, if you advertise a "Buy One, Get One Free" deal online, reinforce it with a bold outdoor banner. This creates a consistent brand experience across every customer touchpoint.
Partner with a Local Print Expert for High-Quality Banners in Portland
Creating the perfect banner is easier when you have professional help. At AlphaGraphics Portland Downtown, our team designs and delivers custom banners in Portland that are meant to attract more business and help it thrive during the winter season. We also provide tradeshow design in Portland to help you create a cohesive and memorable presence at any winter event.
Contact us today.