At Charlotte Sign Studio, every sign we create is more than a nameplate or logo—it’s a statement, a story, and a piece of a business’s identity. Our latest project, completed for SureFire Market, a vibrant convenience stop located in Charlotte’s iconic Camp North End, was no exception.

This wasn’t just another signage install—it was a chance to blend creative design, technical expertise, and local pride into a piece of visual storytelling that now lights up one of Charlotte’s most creative neighborhoods.

The Client: SureFire Market at Camp North End

Tucked within the creative ecosystem of Camp North End, SureFire Market is a local convenience food stop serving up cold drinks, grab-and-go snacks, and warm hospitality to residents, artists, entrepreneurs, and tourists alike. With its roots in Charlotte and its soul firmly grounded in community, SureFire is more than just a place to refuel—it’s a part of the neighborhood’s culture.

Camp North End itself is a revitalized industrial campus that’s become a hotbed for innovation and local flavor. Home to startups, eateries, art galleries, and events, it’s a space that celebrates authenticity. Any business operating within Camp North End must do more than offer products or services—they must stand out while fitting in.

SureFire Market needed a sign that would do just that.

The Challenge: Visibility Meets Character

When the SureFire team reached out to us, their goal was straightforward: increase visibility, especially during evening hours, and draw attention from pedestrian traffic and passing vehicles. But at Charlotte Sign Studio, we know that effective signage goes far beyond visibility.

It was important that SureFire’s sign would:

• 1. Align with the industrial-modern aesthetic of Camp North End

• 2. Reflect SureFire’s unique brand personality

• 3. Be durable and energy-efficient

• 4. Comply with local signage regulations and safety codes

• 5. Stand out day or night

We wanted to create something bold, modern, and meaningful—something that would become an extension of SureFire’s brand and a landmark for their corner of Camp North End.

The Solution: Custom Illuminated Blade Sign

After careful planning, collaborative design sessions, and a few cups of local coffee, we landed on the perfect solution: a custom illuminated sign in the form of a blade mount.

What’s a Blade Sign?

A blade sign is a type of projecting sign that extends perpendicularly from a building’s facade. Unlike flat wall signage, blade signs are perfect for areas with high pedestrian activity because they’re easy to spot from both directions on the sidewalk or road. For SureFire Market—located in a bustling corridor of Camp North End—a blade sign was a smart, strategic choice.

Designed to Catch the Eye

Our design featured:

• - A sleek rectangular frame that complements Camp North End’s industrial vibe

• - Bold typography with high contrast for readability

• - Precision-placed LED illumination that ensures visibility at dusk and beyond

• - A sturdy aluminum frame with weather-resistant finishes

The final sign extends gracefully from SureFire Market’s exterior wall, acting as a beacon for foot traffic and an unmistakable brand signature that passersby won’t miss.

The Process: From Concept to Installation

Here at Charlotte Sign Studio, we take pride in making the sign creation process seamless and collaborative. SureFire Market’s project followed our signature process, which includes:

1. Discovery & Consultation

We met with SureFire’s team to learn about their business, their goals, and their brand identity. This early discovery phase helps us understand how to visually translate a client’s mission into signage that makes an impact.

2. Design & Brand Integration

Our design team worked to integrate SureFire’s logo, brand colors, and vibe into a visual concept that felt aligned with both the company and the culture of Camp North End. We shared mockups and made refinements until the sign felt just right.

3. Permitting & Compliance

Navigating city codes and sign regulations can be complex—especially in unique zones like Camp North End. Our project managers took care of all permitting, ensuring the sign met local compliance and could be safely installed without delay.

4. Fabrication

Using top-grade materials and advanced fabrication techniques, we produced the sign in our Charlotte facility. We focused on durability, weather resistance, and energy efficiency to ensure long-term value for our client.

5. Installation

Our expert technicians installed the sign quickly and safely. Thanks to strategic placement and proper mounting, the new blade sign is both secure and visually striking—a perfect blend of form and function.

The Impact: Visibility, Branding, and Community Connection

Since installation, SureFire Market has seen an increase in visibility and foot traffic—especially in the evenings when the sign glows brightly against the backdrop of Camp North End’s artistic alleyways and industrial architecture.

But beyond visibility, the sign accomplishes something deeper: it creates a sense of place. For regulars, the sign says you’re home. For newcomers, it says this place is worth checking out.

It has become a small but powerful part of the local landscape—exactly what great signage is meant to do.

Why Illuminated Signage Works

A well-designed illuminated sign can be one of the smartest investments a small business makes in terms of branding and long-term visibility. Here’s why:

• - 24/7 visibility – Unlike traditional signage, illuminated signs work after dark

• - Enhanced curb appeal – Lighting makes your storefront look polished and professional

• - Increased foot traffic – Especially in walkable areas like Camp North End

• - Brand consistency – Colors and design elements stay legible and vibrant in any lighting

At Charlotte Sign Studio, we specialize in illuminated signs that are as energy-efficient and long-lasting as they are visually impactful. Whether you’re illuminating your brand for the first time or upgrading an existing sign, our team can guide you from start to finish.

The Value of Outdoor Signs in Walkable Communities

Camp North End is a perfect example of a pedestrian-friendly space where outdoor signs play a vital role. These signs don’t just mark a location—they attract, engage, and invite.

In neighborhoods filled with foot traffic, art, and culture, an effective sign helps businesses claim their corner of the street and join the visual dialogue of the neighborhood.

That’s why our outdoor signs are designed not only for function but also for storytelling.

Collaboration is Key

One of the things that made this project so enjoyable was the collaboration with SureFire’s team. Their vision was clear, and they trusted us to bring it to life.

At Charlotte Sign Studio, we don’t just make signs—we build partnerships with Charlotte’s small businesses. Whether it’s a startup opening its first location or a long-standing brand refreshing its look, we’re here to help them stand out in all the right ways.

Ready to Light Up Your Business?

Whether you’re launching a new space, rebranding an existing one, or simply need more attention on the street, Charlotte Sign Studio is your local expert in high-quality outdoor signs and custom illuminated signs.