Retail names must work at 50 feet while customers drive past at 30mph. Fail the 3-second signage test and lose 40% of potential foot traffic.
Signage Test
Can customers read your name from 50 feet away? Complex names fail on storefronts.
Location-Based Works
"Notting Hill Books" attracts tourists and locals. Generic "Book Shop" doesn't.
Parking Lot Test
Can customers remember your name after seeing it once while driving? 3-second rule.
Avoid Ampersands
"Smith & Sons" looks good in print. Hard to read on signs.
Google Maps Critical
70% of foot traffic starts with Google search. Unique name ranks better than "Coffee Shop."
Check Nearby Businesses
"The Garden Centre" when there's another garden centre 2 miles away = customer confusion.