Grand Opening Billboards: Announce Your New Location
A new location only gets one grand opening. Billboards tell the whole neighborhood you’ve arrived and exactly how to find you. Here’s how to plan a grand opening campaign.
Billboards are made for grand openings. They reach every driver near your new location, repeat your name daily, and can literally point the way: “Now open, next exit.” Starting before opening day builds anticipation, and keeping the board up after helps the area remember you’re there.
Grand Opening Billboards Booked Through BillboardsIn
Every photo here is a real grand opening campaign booked on BillboardsIn. No mockups.
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Businesses That Use Grand Opening Billboards
- Restaurants
- Retail stores
- Medical & dental offices
- Gyms & studios
- Car dealerships
- Salons & spas
- Churches
- Franchise locations
Any business that depends on local customers finding a new address can benefit.
Grand Opening Billboard Timeline
- 2–4 weeks before: “Coming soon” builds curiosity and anticipation.
- Opening week: “Now open” with directions and your opening offer.
- After opening: Keep a directional message up so new customers can find you.
- Digital tip: Switch from “Coming soon” to “Now open” without reprinting.
Grand Opening Billboard Ideas That Work
- Say “Now open” big. It’s the most important message on the board.
- Give directions. “Exit 12, turn right” or “Next to Target” turns awareness into visits.
- Lead with an offer. “Free coffee opening week” gives people a reason to stop in.
- Show your logo clearly so they recognize your sign when they arrive.
- Keep it to about seven words plus directions.
- Use bright, celebratory colors that match your brand.
- Promote the opening event, like a ribbon cutting or giveaway.
Where to Place Grand Opening Billboards
- Within a few miles of the new location, on the roads customers use.
- On the approach to your store as a directional board.
- Near competitors to let their customers know there’s a new option.
- In neighborhoods you want to reach if you’re new to the area.
Before You Book Grand Opening Billboards
A few things to confirm before your campaign goes up:
- Confirm the opening date. Construction delays happen. Digital boards or “Coming soon” messages give you flexibility.
- Check franchise brand rules if you’re part of a franchise.
- Make offers clear. State any limits on opening-week promotions.
- Leave time for artwork approval before the start date.
Each vendor has its own content policy. BillboardsIn will flag anything likely to be rejected before you book.
- See every available billboard on a map, then check the exact spot in Google Street View
- Compare boards and dates side by side
- Filter by audience to find boards the right people drive past
- Download a PowerPoint or share a live link with family, friends or your team
Grand Opening Billboards: FAQ
How much do grand opening billboards cost?
It depends on the city, the board and how long it runs. Smaller poster boards near your location are often an affordable choice. Pick a city on BillboardsIn to see real prices.
When should a grand opening billboard go up?
Two to four weeks before opening for “Coming soon,” then keep a “Now open” message up for at least four weeks after.
What should a grand opening billboard say?
“Now open,” your name and logo, simple directions and, if you have one, an opening offer.
What if our opening date changes?
Digital billboards let you change the message without reprinting, which helps when dates move.
Do directional billboards work?
Yes. A board on the approach to your location helps first-time customers find you and reminds the area you’re there.
Can someone help design it?
Yes. BillboardsIn offers design help if you’d rather not make the artwork yourself.
Ready to announce your opening?
Pick a city to see available billboards and prices, with no obligation.