On the modern high street, brand identity is inextricably linked to visual identity. Using the right graphics in your shops can help create a memorable and cohesive brand experience for your customers, building consistency across your e-commerce, physical, and social media marketing channels, and making more memorable associations with your target audience.
Let’s look at the ways that custom design shop graphics can strategically elevate your retail brand.
Why Is Visual Identity So Important In Retail?
Visual identity and aesthetics are central to retail branding because your visual collateral is usually the first thing a customer sees when they walk into your shop, and this can leave a lasting impression. In modern retail, high street branding not only has to compete with other shops in the vicinity, but also with digital channels, including digital advertising boards and the content viewed by customers as they peruse their phones. With multiple streams of information and stimuli competing for your customers’ attention, your shop graphics need to convey your brand message and identity quickly and effectively.
Brand Image And Consistency
The foundation of a strong visual brand image lies in consistency. When your graphics are consistent across all touch points – your Instagram accounts, online store, high street shops, magazine adverts, etc, they strengthen your brand identity and make it easier for customers to recognise and remember you. Think about some of the most successful retail brands, such as Apple, Nike, Coca-Cola, and H&M. Their visual identity and graphics are instantly recognisable online and offline because they adhere to strict design guidelines that align every visual element with the core brand identity.
Communicating Messages And Values
The primary role of graphics is aesthetic marketing, but shop graphics are also a powerful tool for communicating your shop’s value proposition to customers. They can, for example, be used to advertise promotions, campaigns, and product launches to specific buyer personas or demographics. You can also use graphics to tell a story about your brand, conveying a sense of sustainability, fun, innovation, or luxury. These impressions are communicated through the imagery, colours, and typography you use. A sustainable cosmetics business, for example, could use earthy colours and natural imagery – e.g. The Body Shop or Lush – while a tech-focused brand like Apple or Dyson could convey its value proposition via sleek and minimalist designs with bold typography and concise messages.
In-Shop Graphics And Social Media
In the age of digital retail, it’s important that the graphics you use in your physical shop align with the ones used on social media. Your website, social media profiles, and online ads all need to reflect your brand consistently. It’s common now for customers to access your social media or online shop while in your physical store, to check out promotions, confirm availability, or share your content. High quality graphics in store can drive customers online and make your online presence more compelling and professional, helping you retain customers and build value.
Find Out More
If you’d like to find out more about creating compelling wall graphics for your retail shop, please get in touch with one of the design specialists at MTA Digital today by calling 020 3835 4199 or clicking here.
Image Source: Canva