It's obvious from some of the products sold by novice operators that sign-industry newcomers face a significant learning curve. That's why America's most successful sign companies are full-service operations. No matter what the size of your shop, however, developing a contracting capability could be the missing link in your long-term business plan. America's most successful sign companies support sales and manufacturing with efficient, profitable contracting operations. As in other manufacturing enterprises, success in the sign business depends on maintaining a high degree of customer loyalty.
Customers expect sign companies to stand behind their products after the sale.
If you want to keep your accounts and grow your business, you can't drop the ball at any stage of the process. The higher costs of store rental and Yellow Pages advertising that distinguish these shops from their back-street forerunners are based on maintaining a high volume of business. Yet, this is precisely what many shops do when they inform customers that they don't handle installations or service. Even when you subcontract this work, there's always the possibility that the installer could wind up with your account. Also, finding reliable subcontractors can be quite difficult, and you can't always guarantee the quality of workmanship.