In today’s fast-paced, image-driven world, keeping your branding fresh is essential. But what if your exhibition panels or promotional boards no longer match your brand’s latest look? Replacing them entirely can be costly. Instead, refreshing old panels with new graphics is a smart, cost-effective alternative. Whether you're preparing for a trade show, updating retail displays, or revamping office signage, revitalising your existing panels is easier and more affordable than you think. In this blog, we’ll explore how you can update your displays without the high costs of starting from scratch, helping you stay sharp and professional while saving money.

The High Cost of Replacing Panels Entirely

Let’s face it – replacing display panels isn’t cheap. From material costs to printing, delivery, and even installation, the expenses can add up quickly. For businesses on a tight budget or those operating seasonally, it’s not always realistic to order new signage every time your branding or messaging changes.

Not only is full replacement costly, but it can also be time-consuming. You might experience delays in reprinting or disruptions in your marketing schedule. On top of that, completely discarding old panels creates unnecessary waste, which isn't great for the environment.

Instead, updating the graphic layer – whether it’s a vinyl wrap, adhesive print, or panel overlay – allows you to reuse the structure of your panels while giving them a totally new appearance. It’s an eco-friendly solution that reduces both costs and carbon footprint.

When Should You Consider a Graphics Refresh?

Refreshing your panel graphics is a practical choice in several situations. Here are a few scenarios where a graphic update is not only useful but necessary:

• Outdated Branding: Has your logo changed? Are your brand colours or tagline different now? If so, your old panels might be sending mixed messages.
• Faded or Damaged Graphics: Over time, exposure to light, moisture, or general wear and tear can cause graphics to fade or peel.
• New Promotions or Campaigns: Got a seasonal offer or launching a new product? You can easily update your messaging without buying a new panel.
• Rebranding or Mergers: A business name change or new brand direction means it's time for a fresh look.
• Compliance or Legal Updates: Sometimes, you need to include legal or safety information in your displays, and the easiest way is to apply a new graphic layer.
• Regular Refresh Cycle: Even if your graphics are still intact, refreshing them every 6–12 months keeps your displays looking sharp and relevant.

Refreshing graphics is a quick win for businesses looking to stay visually consistent without unnecessary spending.

Types of Panels That Can Be Refreshed

Many types of signage and display materials are suitable for graphic updates. Some of the most commonly refreshed panels include:

Foamex Boards

These lightweight and durable boards are perfect for indoor displays, exhibitions, and POS marketing. A new print layer can easily be applied over an existing Foamex board.

Exhibition Panels

Whether freestanding or part of a larger system, exhibition panels can be reused by simply applying a fresh graphic overlay, saving money for repeat exhibitors.

Shell Scheme Panels

Shell schemes are standard at most trade shows. Instead of investing in brand-new shell scheme panels each time, a custom graphic can be printed to fit the existing frame.

Retail Display Panels

In-store panels often promote sales or new products. Instead of replacing them entirely, update them with seasonal graphics or limited-time promotions.

Outdoor Estate Agent Boards

T boards and for-sale boards can be reused by replacing the panel inserts or using removable vinyl graphics, which is a great cost-saving method for property agencies.

Menu Boards and POS Signage

Restaurants and cafes can easily update their prices, offers, or branding by refreshing menu board graphics without replacing the entire board.

By choosing to refresh instead of replace, you keep the structure intact while giving the panel a brand-new visual identity.

Smart Design Tips for Revamping Graphics

To make the most of your refreshed panels, follow these smart design tips:

• Go Bold: Use bold fonts and vibrant colours that align with your current branding. This helps draw attention and ensures your message is clear from a distance.
• Use QR Codes: Adding a QR code allows customers to scan for more info, offers, or digital experiences, blending physical and online engagement.
• Keep It Clear: Your messaging should be short, simple, and to the point. Focus on what matters most.
• Design for Versatility: Opt for layouts that can be reused across different campaigns with minor changes, such as changing only the date or offer.
• Incorporate Texture: If possible, add visual texture through finishes like matte, gloss, or raised elements to make your graphics more appealing.
• Hire a Graphic Designer: A professional designer can help you rework existing content and create new visuals that fit your panel size and structure perfectly.

These design choices can breathe new life into your existing panels while still feeling completely fresh and professional.

Case Study: 

Let’s say a local company regularly participates in regional business expos. Instead of purchasing brand-new exhibition panels for every event, they decided to reuse their original panel structure and simply refresh the visuals.

By working with a reliable printer, they applied high-quality adhesive graphics designed to fit perfectly over their existing shell scheme panels. The entire process took just 48 hours, and the cost was nearly 50% less than ordering new panels.

As a result, the company had a vibrant, updated stand at the event, attracted more foot traffic, and still stayed within budget. Most importantly, they reused their old panels instead of sending them to the landfill – a win for the environment too.

Disclaimer: This case study is for illustrative purposes only. Results may vary depending on materials, printer services, and individual project requirements.

Choosing the Right Printing Partner

Refreshing your panels is only as good as the print quality and fitting. That’s why choosing the right printing partner is essential. Here’s what to look for:

• Material Knowledge: Choose a company that understands which materials work best for overlays and which adhesives won’t damage your original panel.
• Custom Sizing: Precise measurements are key. A good printer will customise your graphics to fit your existing panels perfectly – no gaps, overlaps, or misalignment.
• Fast Turnaround: In business, time is money. A reliable partner will deliver quality prints quickly, allowing you to upgrade your panels without long waits.
• Eco-Friendly Options: If sustainability is important to your brand, ask for recyclable or biodegradable materials and low-VOC inks.

Partnering with an experienced print company helps ensure your refreshed panels look just as good – or better – than brand-new ones.

Final Thoughts

In today’s visual-driven world, your display panels are crucial to how customers perceive your brand. However, constant replacement isn’t necessary. Refreshing old panels with new graphics saves money, reduces waste, and keeps your brand looking modern. Whether you're rebranding, updating promotions, or preparing for an exhibition, reusing existing panels and updating their graphics is a smart, strategic approach. At the Board Printing Company, we specialise in helping businesses maximise their signage investment with high-quality, cost-effective graphic refresh solutions. From exhibition panels to shell scheme graphics, we help you stay current without overspending. Get in touch for expert advice and tailored print solutions.