In today’s blog post, I’ll share ideas about how to highlight your business via custom plaques. I’ll introduce you to what they are, why they are important and the most common types of material.
Plaques are recognition items used to highlight achievements, show gratitude, or acknowledge contributions. Plaques have a long tradition. They play a role in different settings. For example in governmental organisations, NGOs, the corporate world, schools, and sports. They usually carry a particular logo, image and text, e.g. the name of the recipient, the award title and date.
Plaques are often displayed in public areas, homes, or offices. To showcase exceptional deeds.
When you recognise someone’s exceptional achievements or contributions, you want to show that person how much you care. Custom versions of plaques do that because they prove you’ve gone the extra mile. By personalising the plaque in such a way that it speaks to the individual recipient.
Receiving a custom plaque can mean a significant boost in morale and motivation. Not only for the recipient but others, too. Because it proves that achievements are being recognized. As social beings, this is particularly the case when the plaque is being handed over on stage. In front of other people.
Custom plaques are important since they represent an investment into relationships. They have a long tradition of serving as a symbol of appreciation and respect. Presenting someone with a plaque is a feel good moment.
As physical objects, plaques serve as lasting reminders of achievement. They are durable items that will stand the test of time and are often placed at visible spots such as e.g. a desk, shelf or wall.
Custom plaques that show details about an organisation, e.g. the name and the logo, contribute to successful branding. This conveys a professional image about the brand.
Plaques can be made from many different materials. Either from one single material or a mix of several. The best option will depend on your brand’s identity, timeline, budget and what you believe the recipient will appreciate most.
Acrylic is a transparent plastic that for plaques is often used instead of glass. Because it is easier to shape, whilst being cheaper and lighter. Printing and engraving offer excellent options for personalising an acrylic plaque. Additionally, one can choose from many different color options.
Out of all materials mentioned here, metal is the most premium one. The perception of value you’ll achieve by using metal is high. One can shape it via different technologies, e.g. casting, forging and CNC. Metal offers the possibility of detailed 3D shapes and diverse finishes.
Wooden plaques are chosen for their warm and elegant look. Natural grain patterns add a unique character to each individual plaque. There are many wood types available which can be stained in various colors. Branding can be done via CNC or laser engraving, printing or plates made from metal or plastic. At the end of the production process, wooden plaques can be coated in a protective lacquer. To further enhance durability.
Glass plaques do exist but it is a tricky material. Due to its weight and the fact that it can break into sharp pieces. Logistics are kind of a nightmare with this material.
Plaques made from mixed materials can be particularly elegant. Our favorite is to mix wood and metal. Both are premium options that together look sophisticated. This combination often results in a wooden back panel and a metal element on top. It could be a medallion or an engraved or printed plate.
There exist many materials and manufacturing technologies to choose from. This means endless possibilities for creating plaques. The emphasis needs to be on the initial concept development phase. To first determine a creative solution.
Engraving is a useful technology for personalisation. Because it is very cost-effective for low volumes. And it works with many different materials. If it is the best option depends on the design. For larger volumes of metal plaques, it will often be better to first invest into a tool. For casting the product. A supplier will be able to tell you which technology is the most cost-effective for your project.
Plaques made in the traditional way never contain electronics. But hey, you don’t have to stick to tradition. Plaques can for example offer illumination. By adding LED strips or other types of light sources.
Our in-house product design and development team has brought a lot of custom plaques to life. They aim find new ways to get the most out of a product. Always from an aesthetic perspective. Sometimes from a functional perspective, too. But it has to make sense. Let’s face it, a lot of plaques don’t even end up on a desk, shelf or wall, but in a drawer. A well chosen function can add value. One needs to be careful to choose the right type. Not something that trivializes the item or occasion.
Custom plaques are about recognizing someone’s achievement but about branding, too. You don’t want to invest money into a custom product without your brand gaining a fair part of the spotlight.
Plaques made from glass or acrylic material are transparent options. They are very common items in the health industry. I recall visiting a doctor who had about a hundred of them in his office. The commemorative product version that has a laser etched 3D object “floating” within.
Plaques are a product category with a very long history. I'd say more than 700 years! There exist a broad range of materials, finishes and manufacturing technologies. Which give you a lot of options. With a custom solution, you'll be able to communicate the unique character of your brand. And show your appreciation for the people who receive them. In case you need any further advice, do let me know.
Ivica Baraba - Sales & Marketing management
"In PES I get to work on many custom branded merchandise projects. I’ve been doing this since 2004. It intrigues me to delve into brand worlds and determine what products can help a client achieve their business goals. It is an exceptionally creative and dynamic industry to be a part of.”
