Computer Support, Design, Print and Business Telecoms - ABC Service, Tavistock, Devon

The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Advertising, Why PVC Banners Rule the Streets

May 28, 2026

In an age where digital ads are everywhere, there is still something incredibly powerful about physical, large-format advertising. When you are walking down West Street in Tavistock or driving through the heart of Plymouth, a well-placed banner grabs your attention in a way a social media post simply cannot.

At ABC Service, we believe that custom PVC banners are the ultimate tool for local business visibility. Whether you are promoting a summer festival, announcing a shop opening, or branding a construction site, these banners offer a first-class combination of durability and visual punch.

Built to Last, The Strength of 440gsm Scrim PVC

Not all banners are created equal. If you want your message to survive the unpredictable British weather, you need a material that can take a beating. Our standard PVC Banners are printed on 440gsm laminated scrim PVC.

This material is lightweight enough to handle easily but tough enough to be completely weatherproof and scratch-resistant. We use high-resolution, 8-colour wide format printing to ensure your colours stay vivid and your text remains sharp, even from a distance.

A pvc scrim banner with silver eyelets for easy mounting

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Space

The secret to a long-lasting banner isn't just the print; it’s how it is finished. Depending on where you plan to hang your banner, you have a few options:

  • Hems and Eyelets: This is the "gold standard" for most displays. We reinforce the edges (hemming) and place silver eyelets every metre or in each corner. This prevents the material from fraying and gives you secure points to cable-tie the banner to fences or walls.
  • Pole Pockets: If you are working on a building project, pole pockets are fantastic for scaffolding. They allow you to slide a pole through the top and bottom of the banner for a perfectly flat, professional look.
  • Just Eyelets: Best for short-term indoor use where weight isn't an issue.

Example of hems and eyelets on a custom-printed banner

The Wind Factor, PVC vs Mesh Banners

One common question we get in our Tavistock workshop is: "What happens if it gets really windy?"

If you are placing a banner in a high, exposed area: like on a bridge or high-level scaffolding: a standard PVC banner can act like a sail. This puts immense pressure on the eyelets and whatever you’ve attached them to.

For these spots, we recommend Mesh Banners. These are made from 340gsm perforated material that allows air to flow through the banner. You still get a brilliant, full-colour print, but with much less risk of the banner being torn down by a Devon gale.

Pole pockets are the ideal finish for scaffolding banners

Marketing with a Conscience, Carbon Captured Media

We aren't just about great graphics; we are committed to being a responsible local partner. Every time you order a banner from us, you are supporting the environment.

All our wide-format media is Carbon Captured. This means we calculate the CO2 emissions from the manufacture and distribution of the material and offset it by helping the Woodland Trust plant and maintain native UK woodland. It is a brilliant way to promote your business while staying eco-conscious.

Summary, Why Choose ABC Service?

Whether you need a single birthday banner or a dozen banners for a trade show, we handle everything in-house right here in Devon. We pride ourselves on honest pricing, expert advice, and a friendly, non-call-centre service.

Ready to get noticed? Explore our full range of Outdoor Banners or pop into our shop at 69 West Street, Tavistock, to see our print quality in person.

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