In 2023, the Billboard and Outdoor Advertising Industry is worth an estimated $9 billion. Billboard ads have the power to command attention and shape consumer perceptions. Even in an ever-changing landscape, billboard advertising has withstood the test of time to help drive brand success.
A billboard company can help you achieve the desired advertising results you want. However, not all billboard companies are created equal. You need to thoroughly scrutinize your billboard company options to ensure that you’re making the best decision for your needs.
Interested in finding out what makes a good billboard company? Then, keep reading below for more helpful insights.
Research Billboard Companies
Don’t just go with the first search result that pops up when you search for “Billboard Companies” online. To get the most out of your outdoor advertising efforts, it’s important to do your research.
This means examining the reputation of different billboard companies. You’re looking for their overall experience with billboard advertising as well as other forms of advertising. Read reviews from past clients to gain a sense of their expertise and professionalism.
You can also inquire about a portfolio of their work. A professional billboard company will likely have an online portfolio of their past work on their website available to view. This will let you see firsthand the quality of their work for yourself.
Evaluate Billboard Locations
When it comes to billboard advertising, you might be limited to certain geographic locations. Some billboard companies may be restricted to specific regions, while others have billboard advertising capabilities across the nation. You will need to verify that the billboard company you choose can meet your location-based advertising needs.
It’s also a good idea to ask for data relating to potential billboard locations. For instance, consider the relevance of the location to your target market. You may also want to know about information such as the average traffic flow through the area to maximize your viewability.
A quality billboard company will go out of its way to assist you with finding the proper billboard locations. They will strive to align with your advertising campaign objectives.
Assess Billboard Visibility and Impact
Billboard advertising has existed since the 1930s. Its larger-than-life presence commands attention. It should come as no surprise that around 80% of consumers have engaged with an OOH ad in the past 60 days.
You want to ensure you get the most impact for your advertising dollar. Consider going to the billboard sites to conduct your research. View how the sun and lighting affect the visibility of the billboards throughout the day.
If you cannot go there in person, ask the billboard companies how these areas perform. Discuss any concerns with the billboard company to see how they can remedy the situation for your benefit.
Evaluate the Company’s Creative Services When selecting a billboard company, it’s important to consider its creative services. A company with a strong creative team can help you develop compelling ad designs that grab attention and effectively communicate your message.
Inquire about the company’s design process and experience creating successful billboard campaigns. They should have a portfolio showcasing their creative work and be able to provide case studies demonstrating the impact of their designs.
A skilled creative team will take the time to understand your brand, target audience, and advertising goals. They will collaborate with you to develop concepts that align with your brand identity and effectively reach your desired audience.
Additionally, look for a company that stays up-to-date with the latest design trends and technologies. They should be able to offer innovative solutions that help your billboard ad stand out in a crowded advertising landscape.
By partnering with a billboard company that offers exceptional creative services, you can ensure that your ad design makes a lasting impression and drives the desired results.
Consider Different Billboard Designs and Sizes
Billboard advertising isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Billboard companies should be able to accommodate a variety of different billboard sizes and designs. They should also be able to provide you with a visualization of how your design will look on each billboard type or size.
Ask for a mock-up of your billboard ad design. This will allow you to see an approximation of your message ahead of time. You can then adjust elements like color, contrast, or text size as needed based on their advertising tips.
Explore Technology and Innovation Options
There is also a distinct difference between traditional billboards and digital OOH billboards. Traditional billboards are static and consistent. Digital billboards, on the other hand, offer dynamic and interchangeable advertising options.
With digital billboards, you will need to understand the unique benefits and challenges they bring. For example, digital billboards may require higher maintenance costs.
However, digital billboards also comprise the fastest-growing segment of the outdoor advertising market, with revenue growing at an average of 7% per year. So, it may be well worth the investment.
A good billboard company will take the time to discuss your options. They will offer the pros and cons, allowing you to make the most informed decision.
Prioritize Analytics and Reporting
When choosing a billboard company, partnering with one that prioritizes analytics and reporting is essential. A top-tier billboard company will provide comprehensive data on your campaign’s performance, allowing you to make informed decisions and optimize your strategy.
Look for companies offering real-time reporting. This will enable you to track your campaign’s progress and adjust as needed. The company should provide insights on impressions, engagement rates, and audience demographics. This valuable data will help you understand your target audience better and refine your messaging for maximum impact.
Moreover, a company that emphasizes analytics will work with you to establish clear key performance indicators (KPIs) and goals for your campaign. They will monitor these metrics closely and provide regular updates, ensuring your advertising efforts align with your business objectives.
By partnering with a billboard company that values analytics and reporting, you can maximize your return on investment (ROI) and make data-driven decisions that drive results.
Consider the Company’s Industry Experience and Expertise
When choosing a billboard company, it’s crucial to consider their industry experience and expertise. A company with a proven track record in the billboard advertising industry will have the knowledge and skills to help you achieve your advertising goals.
Look for a company that has been in the business for several years and has worked with various clients across various industries. They should have a deep understanding of the intricacies of billboard advertising and be able to provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their experience.
An experienced billboard company will also have established relationships with property owners and municipalities, which can help streamline securing prime billboard locations. They will be well-versed in local regulations and permitting requirements, ensuring your campaign runs smoothly and complies with all necessary guidelines.
Moreover, a company with extensive industry expertise can provide strategic guidance and help you navigate the challenges that may arise during your billboard advertising campaign. They will serve as a trusted partner, offering support and solutions every step of the way.
By selecting a billboard company with significant industry experience and expertise, you can benefit from their knowledge and insights, ultimately maximizing the success of your advertising efforts.
Understand Your Contract Terms and Pricing
Reputable billboard companies will put everything in writing. This includes any fees required for billboard installation or removal. If there are any maintenance costs, they will also be included in your contract.
You will need to verify the start and end dates of your campaign. Your billboard company may also have a policy on modifications or changes to your contract. If you choose to renew or extend your contract, these terms should be clearly stipulated as well.
Surprise fees and unnegotiated price increases are a surefire sign of a less-than-trustworthy billboard company.
Check Zoning and Regulatory Compliance
Ensuring regulatory compliance is key. Billboards that don’t follow proper permit practices and adhere to zoning laws run the risk of hefty fines. They may also be taken down at the expense of the business owner.
You will need to check that the billboard companies are aware of size and height restrictions in certain areas. It is vital to verify ad content as well. Some places may have rules regarding prohibitive content like alcohol and cigarettes from being advertised.
An established billboard company will take the necessary steps to obtain any permits. They will also inform you of any content restrictions ahead of time.
Customer Support and Communication
You want your billboard company to be a trusted advertising partner. This means that they are available whenever you need them. Good billboard companies walk with you every step of the way, from conception to execution.
If you have any questions or concerns, they will be there to address any issues. This is what sets quality billboard companies apart.
Trust the Billboard Experts at Pearl Media Outdoor Advertising Today
With so many billboard companies to choose from, it’s important to weigh your options and conduct the proper research. Doing this will not only help you find the best billboard company but also the best advertising partner.
At Pearl Media, we build partnerships with building owners. This allows us to create advertising opportunities for the best brands. By pairing premium properties with great-looking ads, we generate new revenue for the building owner in places where a brand’s ideal client lives, works, and plays.
Looking for the best partner for your billboard ads? Contact Pearl Media today for more information.
