How a "Funny" Sign Can Unexpectedly Damage Your Brand: A Marquee Dilemma

The Initial Chuckle: Dairy Queen's Bold Signage

At first glance, the sign outside Dairy Queen that reads, "Abby you need to show up for work," might make everyone laugh. We've all been there – fast-food joints, often manned by teenagers, sometimes have their little moments of chaos. It seems like a playful, internal joke made public, likely resonating with anyone who's worked in a similar environment. Abby probably calls off a bit too often, and what better way to reach her than a sign everyone can see?

Salt life retail store in strip mall daytime

The Unintended Brand Message

Why This Isn't Just About Abby

As humorous as the sign might seem, there's a hidden drawback. Such signs reinforce the stereotype that fast-food chains offer lower-quality service. Compare this image to that of Chick-fil-A, a brand renowned for its service. You won't find an "Abby" at Chick-fil-A, or at least not publicly called out on their marquees.


While Dairy Queen's sign momentarily grabs attention and perhaps a few social media shares, it risks leaving a lingering impression that they tolerate unreliability. At its best, the sign reinforces poor service stereotypes. At its worst, the sign tarnishes the brand's image.

The Power of Signage: More Than Just Words

Signage isn’t just about communicating a message—it’s about conveying your brand’s ethos and professionalism. Even something as trivial as missing letters on a marquee can send signals of carelessness, inattention to detail, and perhaps a lack of investment in one's business. Every sign, every letter, every image represents your brand, and in a world where first impressions matter more than ever, it's crucial to get it right. 

Signage by Design: Crafting the Right Message for Your Brand

Opting for marquees may evoke nostalgia, but they also open up avenues for misinterpretation or mistakes. Today, digital signage offers an alternative, allowing businesses to maintain control over their message with real-time changes, sleek designs, and interactive capabilities.


However, whether it's digital or traditional, what's crucial is that your signage aligns with your brand's goals, values, and identity. It isn't just about the message but how it's presented. At National Sign Team, we work with clients every day on branding and presentation. We have the experience to guide your signage decisions.

Salt life retail store in strip mall daytime

Take Action: Consult with the Best in Signage

If you want to ensure that your signage strengthens rather than undermines your brand, it's time to speak to experts who've seen it all. At National Sign Team, we've encountered every conceivable pitfall and triumph in the signage game. Let us help you navigate the nuances, ensuring your brand shines the way it should. Don’t leave your brand’s first impression to chance. Speak to the experts today. Contact Mike at National Sign Team: info@nationalsignteam.com | 727-859-1044.

Download our sample brand book template today and see what National Sign Team can do as your national sign company.

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