Looking Forward: Signage Trends of 2024

The way we navigate our surroundings and consume information is continually transforming – especially in the landscape of signage design. As we head further into 2024, we begin to look at the changes and trends that are shaping the year ahead.

From interactive digital displays to minimalist aesthetics, the signage trends of 2024 reflect a focus on customer convenience and utility. As technology develops and customer preferences change, the ways we communicate are becoming faster and smarter. At Astley , we recognise the importance of adapting to these changes, as this is essential in navigating modern environments effectively and letting your brand be heard.

So, what are some signage trends of 2024?

Digital

With there being a continued shift toward digitisation, there is now an offer for heightened versatility and adaptability. The consumer of today is all about convenience and interaction, and 2024 is headed towards increased interactivity.

Digital displays, touch screens and mobile device integration are effective tools for making a seamless customer experience. Retail environments especially are implementing digital design into their environments, using digital screens and touch screens to promote products and allow customer interactivity.

At Astley, we can provide both static and digital hardware that is ideal for a range of branded environments, from LED walls and digital menu boards to window displays and interactive touchscreens.

We have had the pleasure of manufacturing and installing a range of digital solutions for our clients, including the iconic 9m digital wayfinding totems seen at the base of the Olympic Steps at the entrance to the National Stadium at Wembley. These digital totems get to welcome thousands of guests at every event and are often seen at televised events.

With the ability to adapt and respond to societal changes and run realtime campaigns, digital signage proves its capacity to offer extremely flexible messaging with maximum impact.

Sustainability

Sustainability is a huge topic in the industry, and it shows no signs of slowing down.? 2024 will see sustainable materials continue to take centre stage, as the adoption of eco-friendly practices is now more important than ever.

The signage industry strives to see recycled materials being used as much as possible, as well as being sustainably sourced and manufactured. At Astley, we always seek to offer alternative sustainable solutions to our clients for their branded graphics, ranging from eco-friendly acrylics and recycled aluminium to Ultra Board and non-PVC vinyl.

We have also supported retailers with the incorporation of sustainable materials into their branded environments, having introduced Green Cast to our substrate selection – a 100% recycled and 100% recyclable coloured acrylic. This material allows for high-quality, colour-intense qualities, whilst also being recyclable and PVC free – a win-win!

Sustainability doesn’t exclude digital signage either – with its LED technology and reduced waste, the ecological impact of digital signage is relatively small. These LED screens use up to 70% less electricity than traditional displays, and so are a great alternative to help reduce carbon emissions.

Minimalistic designs for user-focused experiences

While digital may be on an upward climb, this doesn’t minimise the impact of traditional signage. In particular, 2024 should see signage of minimalist design: clean lines, modest typography, and simple colour palettes that convey messaging effectively and easily. It's all about subliminal messaging and creating a user focused experience in branded environments.

In such a fast-paced, busy world, it’s important to allow simplicity to cut through all the clutter. In signage, choosing easily readable fonts, simple shapes, and ensuring consistency throughout the designs is key to creating an impressionable brand identity.

Not only are aesthetics hugely important, but adaptability is crucial to ensuring cohesion between media. Simple and adaptable designs are key in an era where information is consumed through various channels, from physical signage to digital displays.

At Astley, we have a fantastic in-house design team who can help support clients with their brand graphics, from conceptual work and project visuals to signage packs. As we offer design services as well as manufacturing, we understand the full range of limitations and opportunities available to support a client with their signage and brand graphic elements.

And so...

The signage trends of 2024 form a blend of technological innovation, sustainability, and user-centric design. These trends can shape an environment where signage isn’t just informative, but is also immersive, flexible, and compelling.

At Astley, we have a wealth of experience in designing and implementing brands into physical environments. An ideal partner not only means offering the ideal balance of creativity and manufacturing expertise, but also means guiding brands in response to industry progression and ever-changing trends. Looking ahead, we are eager to see how these trends develop, and more importantly, how we respond.

Roll on 2024...