Small Business Profile - Give me a Sign

By Christine Greenaway

This is the first in a new series of profiles on small businesses in the East/Southeast Orlando area.

Jay Patel knew he wanted to put his creative energy into a business that could satisfy his desire to provide quality products and services, while fulfilling the needs of the people of East Orlando. “I had to make a career decision to either continue in the corporate world or start my own business. I looked at both the retail and printing business and felt that the sign business allowed for more creativity in delivering great customer service.” So, in April 2006, Jay opened the doors to Platinum Signs and Design, LLC and began producing the type of signage he would be proud to sell.

The cornerstone of Platinum Signs’ foundation is the customer service provided by their staff. “We learned long ago that we're really in the business of building relationships,” says Jay, a UCF alum. “For that reason, we put a premium on hiring only the most qualified individuals to serve on our team.”

“As a small business owner, Jay really understands the importance of community involvement,” says Jennifer Thompson, a client and publisher of Insight. “Whenever I’ve called, he’s been able to turn orders around quickly and often donates his products and time for charitable events.”

To that end, the East Orlando Chamber of Commerce honored Jay and Platinum Signs as the 2007 Business of the Year for his constant dedication and commitment to the community. “He continually supports the chamber and community efforts to take East Orlando from great to greatness,” says Annie Winterbottom, president of the chamber.

In addition, I know from personal experience that Jay goes above and beyond. While attending a networking group, I won a prize of two magnetic signs for my car. About a week later, someone stole one of the signs. Jay found out and immediately produced another sign for me.

Located just two miles north of UCF on Alafaya Trail, Platinum Signs uses technologically advanced hardware and software to remain a competitive trendsetter in the sign industry. They use brilliant, fade-resistant inks, along with premium materials, and a host of imaginative ideas to create the kind of image you’ll be proud to display.

Even when the staff has gone home for the day, customers can still have 24-hour access to products via their online service. The Customer Portal program provides customers with a custom web site within Platinum Signs’ site that allows them to easily request estimates, view past projects and place orders any time of day or night. The online proofing system is able to receive and return proofs without mail or delivery delays.

Most small business owners know they need a sign but they think of them as merely a marker identifying the business. As a result, they are unaware of, and thus underutilize, the earning potential of signage. The U.S. Small Business Administration says signage is the least expensive, yet most effective form of advertising available to a business. It can be responsible for half of a business’ customers. And, a study to determine the economic value of on-premise signage by the International Sign Association revealed that adding a sign to your business or replacing a sign with a more “jazzier” sign, could increase sales revenues by an average of 7%.

When it comes to the art of sign making, Platinum Signs has got it covered. “Anyone in business today knows that signage is very important,” says Jay. “We are a full-service sign company providing identification, location, and promotional signs, so all types of businesses are ideal clients for us.” They provide products used to direct traffic, ensure safety, or brand your business. Their list of products is lengthy and includes banners, backlit signs, logo design, menu boards, ADA signage, engraved signs, and much more.

Platinum Signs

Owner, Jay Patel

407-971-3640

www.platinum-signs.com.