In its 50th year of business, Buchanan Sign & Flag sells more than what its name implies.
Making the transition to e-commerce and updating its website with available inventory is a task that General Manager Mike Cross does not think he’ll finish any time soon — if ever.
“I’ll never finish. There are just too many items,” he said.
Buchanan Sign & Flag provides flags from home and abroad, custom business signs with flair, everyday street signs, flagpoles and much more, including services.
“We’re not your average sign shop,” he said.
Much of it is on display at the 15,000-square-foot showroom and factory at 6755 Beach Blvd.
The company began as Buchanan Signs by Cross’ stepfather, Harold, a firefighter who made signs on the side, and his mother, Barbara.
The original location was on Pearl Street.
The company now has 12 employees, including Cross. The founders still have a hand in the business as well.
“It’s pretty much a family business and stayed that way through the years. Everyone is treated like family,” Cross said.
Summer tends to be busier, but business generally is steady throughout the year, he said. Holidays such as the Fourth of July, Veterans Day and, of course, Flag Day also tend to generate stronger sales.
Walk-in traffic also is consistent.
The store has a multitude of American flags with the most common being 3-by-5 feet, although Cross said the company has created flags that can cover a football field.
While the showroom often has what customers seek, Cross has a solution for those who can’t find what they need.
“We’ll make it,” he said.
356-2466