One of the first decisions when ordering a business sign is whether to illuminate it. Both have their place — here's a straight comparison to help you choose.
Non-illuminated signs
A standard sign with no lighting — printed, vinyl-applied or flat-cut lettering on a panel.
Pros: lower upfront cost, no running costs, no electrical installation, often simpler for planning consent.
Cons: invisible after dark, less impact in the winter months when much of the trading day is in low light.
Best for: businesses that trade mainly in daylight, premises with strong street lighting, tighter budgets, and locations where illumination is restricted (e.g. some conservation areas).
Illuminated signs
A sign lit by LEDs — internally (lightbox or face-lit letters) or externally (halo-lit / back-lit).
Pros: visible 24/7, far more impact after dark, signals an open, professional business, and modern LEDs are cheap to run and long-lasting.
Cons: higher upfront cost, needs electrical installation, and usually needs advertisement consent.
Best for: restaurants, takeaways, late-trading shops, forecourts, anyone on a busy road, and any business that wants maximum visibility.
What about running costs?
This used to be a real objection — old fluorescent and neon signs drew significant power. Modern LED illumination changed that: it uses a fraction of the energy, runs cool, and lasts for years, so the running cost of an illuminated sign today is minimal.
The verdict
If your budget allows and your location permits it, illumination almost always pays for itself in extra visibility — especially through the dark British winter when a non-illuminated sign effectively disappears for much of the trading day. If budget is tight or illumination is restricted, a well-made non-illuminated sign in the right material still does a strong job.
New Smart Signs designs, manufactures and installs both, UK-wide. Not sure which suits your premises? Our free survey will tell you. Call 0800 088 6248 or request a free quote.