Retractable Banner Stands are the easiest banner displays to set up and take down. They are excellent for trade shows, retail displays and special events. The banner is protected inside the base when not in use and most come in their own nylon carry case. They are by far the most popular style of banner display.
If you have ever tried to purchase a banner stand, you might have found that there are dozens of models available in a wide range of prices and sizes. The price points could be as low as $50.00 and can go up to $500.00 or more. The price variation is dependent upon the size, media and quality of the banner stand.
SIZE
Retractable Banner Stands come in widths that range from 9″ to 60″ and usually go up to 7′ high. The most common widths are 33″ and 39″. When choosing the size that fits your needs, determine where you will be displaying your retractable banner stand. Trade show spaces are often 10′ x 10′.
To fill the area some clients will put three 33″ banner stands in a row to create a backdrop. If your booth is already full, you could choose to use only one or two banner stands. Many people display their Retractable Banner Stands in their offices or storefronts after using in a trade show. The small size offers many applications allowing you to have a versatile product to use in various locations. Providing more “bang for your buck.”
Many restaurants and retail stores are using Retractable Banner Stands to promote sales or highlight upcoming events. When considering the size for these type of locations, it is important to consider the safety of your guests and the traffic the area might get. I recommend a durable 33″ Retractable Banner Stand that can be placed in a door way. The width and height allow for full readable images but doesn’t get in the way of your customers.
MEDIA
These days most Retractable Banner Stand graphics can be replaced. The client is looking for an economical banner for a short term and plans to print another one featuring the next promotion or product. The client can choose to change out the graphics themselves or bring back to the sign manufacturer for installation of the new banner. The best material for this application is a poly vinyl. Poly provides a smooth finish, allows for bright color reproduction and rolls smoothly into the banner base.
For a high quality print, The Graphic Edge recommends using an eclipse opaque film. The white backed film diffuses light and the colors appear bright giving the image depth and detail. Most manufacturers of top notch banner stands recommend Eclipse as it fits the best in the banner base and is made specifically for a Retractable Banner Stand. I do not recommend traditional vinyl for a banner stand. It might be economical but it is not made to roll into the base of the stand.
QUALITY
When purchasing banner stands online or with a known sign company it is important to understand you get what you pay for. Having sold banner stands for over 10 years, I am well aware of the cheap products available on line. Don’t choose this option. Most of the cheaper stands are not made for long term usage. If you plan to take a Retractable Banner Stand to trade shows and use them throughout the year or for the next 10 years, make sure to buy a stand that is durable.
Most sign companies offer several stands with various price points and should ask the buyer what they will be using the stand for. Let your sales person recommend the product that meets your particular needs. I have seen customers buy what I call “over kill” stands that are too expensive when a less expensive quality stand can do the same job. I have also seen clients be under sold, only to be complaining when the stand falls apart or wont roll back into the base properly.
My favorite low price stand is the Retractable II and my favorite mid range stand is the Grand Stand. Both products are backed by a high quality manufacturer and offer replacement parts if necessary.
When choosing your Retractable Banner Stands, tell your sign company what your expectations are and allow them to recommend the perfect stand to fit your needs. Think about where your stand will be displayed, how long the graphics will be used and especially how much mileage you need from your stand. Make an educated decision and don’t be oversold or undersold. And always feel free to contact The Graphic Edge for our high quality stands, graphics and advice.
