Sell or Buy a Sign Company in Illinois

Your complete guide to sign and graphics business transactions. Valuations, equipment, and customer considerations.

Illinois Sign Company Market

$425K
Avg. Sale Price
2.5-4.0x
SDE Multiple
4.0-6.0x
EBITDA Multiple
2,100+
IL Sign Companies

Sign Company Overview

Illinois sign companies serve businesses with interior and exterior signage, vehicle wraps, banners, and digital displays. The industry benefits from business growth and the constant need for visual branding.

Sign companies benefit from repeat commercial customers, diverse service offerings, and installation revenue. Success depends on design capabilities, production equipment, and installation expertise.

Sign Company Valuation

Business TypeMultiple RangeBasis
Vinyl/Graphics2.0x - 3.0xSDE
Full-Service Sign2.5x - 4.0xSDE
Digital/LED Signs3.0x - 4.5xSDE
Franchise Sign Shop2.5x - 3.5xSDE

Key Valuation Factors

  • Equipment: Printers, cutters, routers, and fabrication tools
  • Customer base: Repeat customers and national accounts
  • Service mix: Design, production, and installation
  • Installation capability: Crews and equipment for installs
  • Permits/licenses: Sign contractor licenses

Selling a Sign Company

Key Selling Considerations

  • Equipment inventory: Detailed list with age and condition
  • Customer list: Top accounts and revenue concentration
  • Staff retention: Key designers and installers
  • Work in progress: Current orders and backlog
  • Permits: Sign contractor licenses and permits

Illinois Regulatory Compliance

  • Illinois Sign Contractor License (varies by municipality)
  • Electrical contractor license (for illuminated signs)
  • OSHA safety compliance for installation
  • Vehicle and equipment insurance
  • Workers' compensation insurance

Buying a Sign Company

Key Buying Considerations

  • Equipment assessment: Professional evaluation of production equipment
  • Customer verification: Confirm key account relationships
  • Staff interviews: Meet designers and installation crews
  • License requirements: Sign contractor licensing
  • Market analysis: Competition and growth opportunities

Sign Company Types

🏢 Exterior Signs

Building and monument signs.

🚗 Vehicle Wraps

Fleet graphics and wraps.

💡 LED/Digital

Electronic message centers.

🏬 Interior Signs

Wayfinding and lobby signs.

🎪 Banners/Displays

Trade show and event graphics.

🔧 Neon/Channel

Custom illuminated signs.

Ready to Buy or Sell a Sign Company?

Get expert guidance for your Illinois sign business transaction.