Ethan Sanders, a production specialist at FastSigns in Kennewick, is a master at applying vinyl graphics to vehicles. Recently, he was tasked with carefully measuring and applying a vinyl graphic to the driver’s side door of a white Ford pickup truck. The graphic needed to be centered, leave space for the door handle, and be perfectly flat. Despite the warm weather making the vinyl a bit “persnickety,” Sanders was more than up to the task.
Vehicle graphics and wraps are a significant part of FastSigns’ business, making up about 15% to 20% of their overall projects. The company, owned by Ethan’s parents Brad and Yvette Sanders, is one of several Tri-Cities businesses offering these services. According to a report, the vehicle wrap market is expected to see a compound annual growth rate of 22.1% between 2024-30, indicating a growing trend in the auto industry.
In the Tri-Cities area, businesses typically request two categories of vehicle graphics and wraps: color changes or personal vehicle enhancements, and commercial or fleet work. Sanders’ project at FastSigns fell into the latter category, as he was applying logos and business information to trucks for TLM One, Inc., a company specializing in retail fueling infrastructure.
Mustang Signs in Kennewick also offers vehicle wraps and vinyl applications, with these services making up about 30% of their business. President Lauran Wang emphasized the importance of helping businesses look professional and grow through branding and design. FastSigns also assists companies in crafting the design and look of their vehicle graphics, ensuring they are both visually appealing and cost-effective.
The labor involved in graphic applications and wraps can be a significant expense, but companies like FastSigns work with clients to develop strategies that minimize costs while still effectively conveying the desired message. Projects can vary in size and complexity, with some taking only a couple of hours and others requiring days to complete.
Ethan Sanders’ meticulous work on the TLM One trucks involved removing old lettering, cleaning the surface, and using magnets, measuring tape, and a grease pencil to position the graphics accurately. The finished product was crisp and sleek, showcasing Sanders’ attention to detail and skill in his craft. While he works on a variety of projects at FastSigns, Sanders particularly enjoys vehicle work for the opportunity to create something tangible and visually impactful.
Overall, vehicle graphics and wraps play a crucial role in helping businesses enhance their branding and visibility. With skilled professionals like Ethan Sanders at the helm, companies can trust that their vehicles will not only look great but also effectively communicate their message to potential customers.
