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 been around since the 1930s. Their 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 that you’re getting the most impact for your advertising dollar. Consider going to the billboard sites to conduct your own research. View how the sun and lighting affect the visibility of the billboards throughout the day.
If you are unable to go there in person, ask the billboard companies themselves how these billboard areas perform. Discuss any concerns with the billboard company to see how they can remedy the situation for your benefit.
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.
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.