In summer, speed matters – and so does visibility. Whether it’s a customer scanning the counter at a busy café or a family deciding what to order at a restaurant entrance, your menu boards and point-of-sale (POS) displays play a huge role in driving seasonal sales.
Here’s how to make the most of your display space this summer, with smart signage solutions that work hard in high-footfall environments.
1. Make the Most of Seasonal Menus
Summer is the time to shout about your limited-edition drinks, light bites, and fresh flavours.
- Highlight summer specials using changeable menu systems like magnetic boards or clip-in panels
- Use window graphics or lightboxes to promote outdoor menus or takeaway offers
- Add visual elements – icons, photos, or bold typography – to guide quick decision-making
Shorter dwell time means your boards need to work harder, faster.
2. Keep It Bright, Clean, and Legible
Increased sunlight and outdoor glare can make displays harder to read – especially in window areas or near open doors.
- Use high-contrast colours and matte finishes to avoid reflections
- Ensure backlit POS or menu boards are bright enough to stand out, even in strong daylight
- Stick to clear, readable typefaces and avoid clutter – keep it simple and snappy
Remember: the faster people can read it, the faster they can order.
3. Maximise Impulse Purchases
Your POS area is the perfect place to upsell – especially during the summer rush.
- Use countertop signage to spotlight high-margin add-ons like iced drinks, snacks, or desserts
- Try freestanding displays to guide customers toward seasonal promos or bundles
- Consider digital POS screens to rotate offers and show animations that draw attention
A subtle nudge at the right time can turn a standard order into a bigger basket.
4. Keep the Flow Moving
In busy summer periods, bottlenecks are bad for both service and sales.
- Ensure menu boards are visible before the counter so customers decide while queuing
- Use clear directional signage to split lines or mark collection areas
- Keep pricing and options easy to find – don’t make people ask
Good signage = faster decisions = happier queues.
5. Design for Flexibility
Your menus may change weekly – your signage should adapt just as easily.
- Opt for modular POS displays that let you update offers fast
- Choose reusable menu boards with removable panels or sliding inserts
- Use digital displays for quick daypart or seasonal changes
Less faff for your team. More relevance for your customers.
Let Your Summer Signage Work Harder
From independent cafés to national QSR brands, we help businesses create menu boards and POS signage that sells – fast.
If your summer setup could use a refresh, contact us now.
For more signage tips check out the previous article: Common Sign Types
