The Diverse Applications Of Real Neon Signs
Real neon signs have been lighting up streets, businesses, and creative spaces for over a century now, captivating people with their warm glow and distinctive charm. Neon is an art form that blends nostalgia with modern design elements, making it a timeless signage choice for branding and advertising.
In this article, we explore the many ways that neon can be used in different spaces, from vibrant storefront displays and eye-catching advertisements to the perfect décor option for events companies, neon signs have a host of fantastic applications. Whether used to attract customers, enhance the ambience, or add a personal touch to an event, Carousel Lights is the go-to option if you’re looking to purchase a high quality neon sign from a renowned British signmaker.
The Timeless Appeal of Real Neon
For over a century, neon signs have captivated people all over the world, with the retro feel seemingly never going out of style. The vibrant displays create an ambience that feels both nostalgic and modern, making these signs a staple of cityscapes, businesses, and creative spaces.
Unlike more modern LED imitations, real neon signs have an added unique depth that adds both character and authenticity to the general vibe. Whether illuminating a classic diner, buzzing bar, or a contemporary art gallery, neon signs offer a consistent and powerful visual statement that captures the eyes of anyone passing by. Part of the appeal of these lights is the ability to evoke emotion and stand out in an increasingly digitised world.
Also known as traditional glass neon, real neon signs are created from hand-bent glass tubes which are then filled up with either neon or argon gas (both neon and argon are safe inert gasses). At Carousel Lights, real neon signs are produced right here in the UK, and we have helped thousands of brands and artists bring their creations to life.
The art of creating traditional glass neon signs is far more rare these days, but Carousel Lights are experienced in creating eye-catching and long-lasting neon signs that can be used in a range of different settings.
Neon in Business: Enhancing Branding and Visibility
For many decades, businesses around the world have relied on neon signs to capture customers’ attention and establish a strong visual identity. The unmistakable glow of real neon acts as a beacon, drawing in customers, and reinforcing brand recognition. From the iconic golden arches of the McDonald’s sign to the buzzing pink of a retro motel sign, businesses have been successfully using neon signs since its invention.
Neon was originally used inside signs just as a source of illumination, only to be superseded by fluorescent tubes and then LED modules.
Unlike some more conventional forms of signage, neon immediately stands out, giving businesses the power to create eye-catching, custom designs that reflect their brand personality and values. The range of expression is diverse, suited to shopping centres and storefronts, trendy cafes and restaurants, popular nightclubs and bars, luxury hotels, and more. In an ever-competitive marketplace, standing out is an absolute necessity, and real neon signs remain a timeless and effective marketing tool that adds an element of exclusivity and charm setting businesses apart from the rest.
Neon in Hospitality: Creating Atmosphere in Bars and Restaurants
Neon signs have been a key part of the hospitality industry for decades, transforming mundane bars and restaurants into immersive, visually striking destinations that stick in customers’ memories. Whether it be the retro charm of a neon-lit diner, the vibrant energy of a cocktail bar, or the beautiful modern elegance of a fine dining establishment, the warm inviting glow of neon signs sets a powerful mood.
Beyond simple aesthetics, real neon signs serve as a powerful branding tool, helping businesses in the hospitality industry create a distinct identity using custom signs that reflect their theme. A real neon sign can be used to bring a logo to life, to advertise specific promotions, or to compliment the theme of a restaurant, hotel or bar
Neon signs also do wonders for the customer experience, as customers love a place that can set a specific mood. A traditional neon sign can even be used to increase online traction for a business by creating backdrops that encourage customers to take photographs and post them online, thereby spreading brand awareness and attracting the attention of potential new customers. So, whether it’s for ambience, branding, or promotions, real neon signs play a massive role in hospitality.
Retail and Neon: Attracting Customers with Vibrant Displays
The retail space is no different, and grabbing the attention of potential customers is key. There are few better ways to do this than with the lively glow of a neon sign, whether displayed in a storefront window or as a part of pop-up installations, there are all sorts of ways that retail stores can use neon to drive increased business.
Neon signs highlight a brand’s personality and add a sense of excitement and exclusivity that draws customers in. Beyond just the exterior aesthetics, neon signs help retailers create a memorable shopping experience for their customers. These signs can also be used for navigational purposes in malls or large shopping centres to help customers quickly find what they’re looking for.
Retail stores can also adopt neon to their overall marketing strategy, using the signs for promotions and brand awareness. Just by differentiating themselves from regular custom signs, stores draw customers in who may have never seen it otherwise.
Neon Event Décor: How Neon Sets the Mood
For live events, using traditional neon signs is often a popular and welcomed choice. Neon signs have become an increasingly popular decorative element for weddings and special events, adding a bold personalised and stylish touch that enhances the overall atmosphere.
Outside of the wide range of design options, the warm ambient glow of real neon signs creates an intimate and inviting setting, perfect for celebrations that stretch deep into the night. Neon signs are an eye-catching addition for birthdays, corporate events, and private parties, creating a unique and memorable touch that only adds to the guest experience. As an events company, offering customers the option to add neon signage can quickly help you set yourselves apart from the rest.
Neon for Interior Design: Elevating Modern Businesses
Real neon signs have become a bold and stylish interior design choice, specifically for their ability to seamlessly combine modern and vintage aesthetics. Their applications are many, from being the focal point in a specific area to setting a specific mood that helps drive productivity.
Real neon adds character, warmth, and personality to a broad range of aesthetics. Designers often incorporate custom neon signs with meaningful phrases, abstract shapes, or artistic designs to create a more unique ambience that reflects the business’s branding style.
An increasingly popular choice in creative workspaces, studios, and co-working hubs, neon signs can bring a vibrant energy that keeps everyone feeling energised and productive. By merging art with creative lighting, neon signs offer something unique in terms of interior design, giving businesses a way to truly control the mood of a working space.
Neon in Outdoor Advertising: A Bright Alternative to LEDs
Even today, real neon signs remain a popular choice in outdoor advertising, having for decades stood out as a dynamic and charismatic method of catching and retaining customer attention. While LED displays and digital billboards are popular options, neon signs offer viewers a warm, organic glow that can be hard to match.
Businesses of all kinds use outdoor neon signs to make a lasting impression, from towering neon hotel signs lighting up a city skyline to the simple glow of a classic diner’s invitation along the roadside. The handcrafted nature of traditional neon allows it to stand out with its individuality, a timeless appeal.
The undeniable charm of real neon signs can help businesses reinforce brand identity while exercising creativity and artistic expression. On top of this, with the proper maintenance, neon signs are durable and weather-resistant, making them a longstanding and effective option for outdoor advertising.
At Carousel Lights, we can prepare long-lasting traditional neon signs for outdoor use. The glass sections are perfectly fine for exterior use and the tubes are produced in the exact same way. Provided you let us know at the beginning of the process, you can rest easy knowing our outdoor neon signs are both functional and reliable in the long term.
Getting Real Neon Signs From Carousel Lights
Carousel Lights is more than just your regular sign-maker, we are a long-established and multi-award-winning family-run business with special expertise in neon signage and lighting. Based in the UK, we produce custom signs and lights for a wide range of clients across all sectors, including hospitality, retail, film and TV, corporate, and more.
As the leading neon sign specialists in the country, our client list includes some of the most famous brands in the world, such as Coca-Cola, Disney, Paramount+, BBC, Sky Sports, and many, many more. All of our signs are designed and manufactured right here in the UK, so air miles are kept to a minimum. We are committed to sustainable and eco-friendly practices, and all signs are made from recyclable materials.
To get your neon sign or any other form of signage or lighting that you need, all you have to do is contact us. We can discuss design options and prepare a mock design for you to look over before we get started on the creation of the sign. Our team members are passionate and committed to providing you with the highest standard of service and a sign that meets your exact needs.
Final Thoughts
Real neon signs continue to prove their versatility, offering a unique blend of artistic expression, branding power, and functional lighting across various industries and sectors. Whether for promotional services, navigational purposes, or setting a specific mood, real neon signs continue to help businesses attract more customers and ultimately grow revenue.
From bars and restaurants looking to create a backdrop that spreads on social media to large shopping malls putting up outdoor neon advertising boards, the diverse range of applications is almost endless. Even in 2025, there are few things quite as stylish and eye-catching as traditional neon signage.
At Carousel Lights, we design and manufacture real neon signs for businesses in all sectors. We help you bring your ideas to life with durable and reliable signs. With a client list that includes some of the most renowned businesses in the world, you can rest assured knowing that you are getting only the highest quality. To learn more about how we can help you, give us a call at 01372 662299 or contact us here.