Epic Signs & Graphics Blog

They’re everywhere — those dull, dented, sometimes rusted metal posts that line parking lots and stand guard in front of store entrances. You’ve probably bumped a shopping cart into one. Maybe even your car door.

They’re called bollards, and while they serve a useful purpose (mostly to stop vehicles from going where they shouldn’t), let’s be honest: they’re not much to look at.

But lately, something interesting is happening. Those ugly little safety posts are getting a makeover, and something different is catching your eye when you are walking into your favorite store. That’s the magic of bollard signs — colorful covers that slip over those short safety posts found outside storefronts, in parking lots, or near drive-thru lanes. These posts, typically there to protect buildings and pedestrians, are suddenly doing double duty as attention-grabbing signs.

They’re helping shoppers, promoting a weekend sale or special event, guiding traffic, and most importantly, bringing a little personality to places that usually feel pretty... well, gray.

From Eyesore to Eye-Catcher

Let’s face it: bollards aren’t pretty. They’re big, gray, and easy to ignore, unless they’re wrapped in something unexpected. That’s what makes bollard signs so effective. They meet people where they are: on sidewalks, near entrances, and along drive-thru routes.

Instead of another poster taped to a window or a banner flapping in the wind, these signs sit right at eye level. You can’t miss them — and that’s kind of the point.

For shoppers, it’s a quick and helpful heads-up:

• “Don’t miss the clearance event inside.”
• “Here’s where to park for curbside pickup.”
• “Welcome! Today’s special: 2-for-1 smoothies.”
• “Use the side entrance — construction ahead.”

They’re practical, visual, and oddly satisfying. Some are even playful — decked out for Halloween, the holidays, or local events. And they work because they’re in the right place at the right time, when customers are walking by with just enough curiosity to look up (or down) and take it in.

Seasonal, Swappable, and Surprisingly Fun

Why are you seeing these signs popping up more often? They're easy to swap. Retailers and businesses use them to reflect the season — pumpkins in October, hearts in February, fireworks in July. They’re also practical during grand openings, community events, or high-traffic weekends.

It’s not just about getting people to notice. It’s about giving them a reason to smile, pause, or head inside. They’re easy to change with the season, quick to install, and durable enough to stand up to Ohio weather.

Businesses across Northeast Ohio are turning everyday safety posts into something more useful — and more fun — with help from Epic Signs Cleveland. If you’ve got a message to share or a space that could use a splash of personality, a custom bollard sign might be the easiest change you didn’t know you needed.

For more information, visit the Epic Signs Cleveland website at: https://www.epicsignscleveland.com/