Curb appeal is usually a term used when talking about real estate value. But have you ever thought about the importance of “curb appeal” when it comes to local business?
While the curb appeal of residential homes is important, it’s just as important, if not more, for businesses.
Without the right look, businesses can lose their customer base, and say goodbye to any new shoppers.
All these things stay at the forefront of Ted Spencer’s mind when he takes on a job.
“I think most people don’t realize that their sign needs to be updated,” said Spencer. “I want to give them the opportunity to see that.”
This is why Spencer started Qsigns, a new sign business in Manning.
“I firmly believe your storefront is either going to invite or not invite customers,” said Spencer. “If you provide them with a nice clean store front, they are more likely to come in.”
Spencer has been involved with the sign industry since he was a child and has seen almost every single side of sign-making.
“I have been in and around the sign industry since I was five years old,” said Spencer. “My dad still owns a sign shop in Sumter.”
Spencer credits much of his current expertise to the time he spent with his father as a child.
“When I was a kid, I would design things like race cars on his computer,” said Spencer. “Not for anyone in particular, just because I enjoyed being creative.”
After growing up in the sign industry, Spencer took a job at The Manning Times as a graphic designer. He spent between six years as the production manager, further honing his skills. During his time there, he also racked up a considerable number of awards for his designs.
“I won nine state awards for graphic design through the South Carolina Press Association,” said Spencer.
His next stint in the sign industry was at a company called Glantz Sign Supply. Glantz specializes in providing raw materials to sign shops.
“Through that my horizons were broadened,” said Spencer. “I went to these huge sign shops and saw all these amazing things they were doing. I think we are missing out on that locally.”
Spencer thinks that Manning, and Clarendon County in general, could benefit from his work. He wants to make storefronts look more professional; more put-together. He thinks that the best place to start is the sign.
But Spencer doesn’t stop at the sign. His business model takes him beyond the storefront, where he offers comprehensive brand management.
After Spencer is done creating your new storefront, he helps design your social media platform and logo.
The licensing for a custom-designed logo at a standard sign shop can run a bill of $300-$400. Spencer, however, offers this service free-of-charge.
“I care more about seeing a business succeed than making money off of licensing,” said Spencer. “Obviously, I’m in this business to make money. But I want people to know that I really care about this town and how it looks.”
His business also provides anything from custom tents to tabletop covers, all made in house. Some of his current work can be seen at Merle Norman, Rejuva Nutrition, Higher Learning Tutoring Center, Shannon Greens, and more.
“I think what separates us from everyone else is our ability to create good-looking, professional designs,” said Spencer.
Spencer is currently building clientele in Manning and wants to help your business get the right look to succeed. For any inquiries, you can contact Qsigns at 803-968-2076 by email at sales@qsigns.net.
“I live in Manning, I love Clarendon, and I want to make this community shine brighter than it ever has.”
