Illuminated signage – Where visibility meets brand identity
Illuminated signage – also known as light-up signs, neon signs, LED neon signs, or illuminated advertising boards – is one of the most powerful ways to make a business stand out. These illuminated letters and displays grab attention from afar, remain visible 24/7, and help reinforce brand presence. In this article, we explore the key types and benefits of illuminated signage, how it supports both aesthetics and functionality, and showcase real projects delivered by Beflex.
What is illuminated signage?
Illuminated signage is a broad term for any sign or display that has its own light source. This includes classic neon tubes, LED-lit 3D letters, backlit advertising boards (such as shopfront lightboxes), and modern LED neon signs. The defining feature is that the text, logo or graphic is lit from the inside or behind, making it highly visible at night. Illuminated signage is used both indoors and outdoors – from business façades to shopping centre wayfinding systems – anywhere visibility matters.
The most common types of illuminated signage
- 3D illuminated letters: These are custom-built, three-dimensional signs illuminated with internal LED lighting. Frequently seen on the front of shops and restaurants, they add a sleek, premium look during the day and remain legible from a distance at night.
- Lightboxes and illuminated boards: Flat or boxed signage structures that house internal fluorescent or LED modules. These signs are ideal for shopfronts, directories or roadside advertising. Their large surface area supports impactful graphic content and can be easily updated for new campaigns.
- Traditional neon signs: The classic solution, made of bent glass tubes filled with neon or argon gas, glowing in distinctive colours. Neon signs offer a nostalgic, eye-catching visual – perfect for bars, entertainment venues or vintage-style shops.
- LED neon signs: A modern alternative that mimics the look of neon using flexible LED tubing. These signs are more energy-efficient, safer and more durable than traditional neon, while offering the same bright, colourful impact.
- Digital LED signs: Often used in public spaces, these screens show moving or rotating content such as promotions or updates. While technically considered digital signage, they are closely linked to illuminated advertising due to their high visibility and light-based display.
Why choose illuminated signage?
Visibility around the clock: An illuminated sign works 24/7 – even after dark when traditional signs are no longer visible. With constant visibility, your business enjoys continuous brand exposure.
Captures attention: Bright signage instantly draws the eye. A creative or bold LED neon sign will stand out from its surroundings and attract foot traffic, especially in busy areas.
Strengthens brand recognition: High-quality illuminated signage enhances your brand identity. It communicates your logo, colours and message in a lasting, memorable way. Repeated exposure builds awareness and trust.
Adds aesthetic value: Beyond its functional purpose, signage can also be a design feature. Whether it's a minimalist LED sign or a playful neon message, these elements elevate the space and create a unique atmosphere.
Efficient and long-lasting: Modern LED signage is energy-saving and requires little maintenance. With durable materials and weatherproof finishes, your outdoor illuminated sign will serve your business reliably for years to come.
Visual and functional roles
An effective illuminated sign serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. Visually, it integrates into the architectural style of the environment, contributing to its design. For example, in a shopping centre, consistent, well-designed illuminated wayfinding signs not only guide visitors but enhance the modern, premium feel of the space.
Functionally, lighted signage supports navigation and communication. A shopfront sign helps locate a store from a distance. Indoors, illuminated directional signs show routes, highlight key areas like checkout counters, and communicate promotions or updates through animated LED displays.
Illuminated signage in practice – projects by Beflex
Burger King: For this global fast-food chain, we created iconic illuminated 3D signs to showcase the Burger King logo on the façades of various restaurants. Inside, LED neon messages and illuminated elements contribute to a welcoming dining atmosphere.
Allee Shopping Centre: We designed and installed a full wayfinding and signage system at this busy Budapest mall. Suspended illuminated signs and directional lightboxes guide visitors while seamlessly aligning with the building’s interior design.
Madame Tussauds Budapest: In a space where immersive visual experience matters, our team contributed bespoke illuminated signs and neon elements for themed areas of the wax museum. These signs are both decorative and functional, enhancing the exhibition and improving the overall visitor experience.
Let your brand shine
As these examples show, illuminated signage is a versatile and powerful tool for businesses across all sectors. Beflex provides end-to-end service – from design and production to on-site installation – to help your brand stand out with bold, professional and long-lasting illuminated solutions.
