2003 Vinyl Survey

Although the primary purpose of this annual survey (the ninth) is to examine the use of vinyl in the sign industry, this year, its ancillary questions also provided some fascinating results. Vinyl usage is predominant among commercial (non-electric) sign companies, yet the survey produce some huge changes, in some cases. Additionally, questions about related equipment purchases yielded staggering positive responses, all of which signals newfound confidence in a bustling, growing sign industry. To view the full results of the 2003 Vinyl Survey, purchase a back issue of Signs of the Times magazine, February, 2004 here. Preview:

 

Table 4: Changes in Sales Volume
Type of Shop	Respondents	More (%)	Less (%)	Same (%)	Net (%)
Independents	103	55 (35%)	15 (11%)	33	17.1%
Franchisees	19	10 (18%)	3 (6%)	6	8.5%
Licensees	5	4 (13%)	0	1	10.6%
Total (2003)	127	69 (31%)	18 (11%)	40	13.2%
Total (2002)	130	69 (21%)	29 (16%)	29	7.8%

Table 4 positively indicates that the average sales volume for respondents jumped by 13% from 2002 to 2003, significantly higher than the average 7.8% increase from 2001 to 2003, despite virtually the same number of responses.

 

Table 19: Planned Equipment Investment
Type of Shop	Respondents	Own a Plotter	New in 2004	2004 Overall Average Investment
Independents	108	104	59	$30,181
Franchisees	20	20	13	$18,877
Licensees	7	7	6	$9,000
Total (2003)	135	131	78	$26,691
Total (2002)	135	134	26	$11,387

Table 19 apparently saves the best for last. Nothing indicates belief in better days and a burgeoning economy than plans to purchase new equipment. The average equipment investment in 2004 is much more than double what companies anticipated doing in 2003. Additionally, a staggering three times as many respondents plan to purchase an additional plotter in 2004.