Why We Still Print Election Signs – And Why They Still Matter

Carla Duncan, President
In an age of digital-first campaigns and social media blitzes, it’s easy to wonder: are lawn signs still relevant?
At TR Trades Reproduction, we’ve been answering that question for over 50 years — with ink, corrugated plastic, and a whole lot of local pride. And the answer is still yes.
Recently, Vancouver Sun featured our company in a story about the enduring impact of election signs and how our Kitsilano-based print shop continues to serve local candidates with fast turnaround and unmatched quality. From traditional lawn signs to bold window decals and vibrant campaign posters, we’ve stayed true to our mission since 1969: helping messages stand out. Read the full article here.
Signs Work — Even If Social Media Shouts Louder
Political scientists agree — physical signs may seem old-school, but they still deliver results. As UBC’s Professor Emeritus Richard Johnston explained, signs help boost name recognition and send a message of credibility. Research from Yale shows that signs can increase voter margins by as much as 1.7 percentage points — often enough to tip the balance.
Plus, when someone places a candidate’s sign on their lawn, it’s a public statement. It shows commitment, belief, and community connection — the kind of grassroots visibility that no social media ad can replicate.
Local Printing = Local Power
At TR Trades, every election sign we produce is proudly Canadian-made. We use high-quality materials sourced from within Canada, like election-grade Coroplast from Quebec, and we deliver most orders the same day.
In a time when many local print shops are being bought out by large U.S. corporations or pushed aside by DIY services, supporting a Canadian-owned business means supporting local jobs, expertise, and sustainability.

Technology That Makes a Statement
To keep ahead of the curve, we’ve recently invested in one of the most advanced flatbed printers in North America — imported from Switzerland and housed in its own climate-controlled studio. It prints up to 126 x 79.9 inches at ultra-high resolution, on nearly any surface up to 2 inches thick — even a door.
Want campaign graphics on wood, acrylic, ceiling tiles, or even rubber mats? We can do that. Want tactile raised text, Braille, Spot UV, or 3D Droptix effects? We can do that too.
We’re not just printing signs — we’re creating visual statements that get noticed.
Campaign Season? We’re Ready.
As election day approaches, sign orders will ramp up — and we’ll be here, as always, ready to deliver. Whether you’re running for office or managing a campaign, TR Trades is your trusted partner for fast, reliable, high-impact election signage.
Whatever your message, let’s make it stand tall — on lawns, in windows, and across the city.