All signs point to success for Chicago Sign Designs

August 2025

When Gary and Eric Becker knew they wanted to start a sign business, they had one singular focus… open their business in Elk Grove Village. Back in 1991, the Detroit natives researched where the best place would be to reach the business-to-business audience they wanted. And for 34 years, it's proved to be a gamble that has paid off.

A family affair

Chicago Sign Designs has grown into one of the most sought-after sign companies in the region. While the location provides the company with a large clientele pool, it’s the personal attention they receive that keeps them coming back time and time again.

As just a two-man operation, clients know they will get service and attention to help them develop the best sign for their application. While Gary leads sales, Eric works directly with clients to design signage that stands out from the competition. “Something that sets Chicago Sign Designs apart is when a business works with us, they're working directly with the owners,” shares Gary.

Growing and evolving

Any long-standing business knows there are always ups and downs, but the ability to adapt and evolve has kept Chicago Sign Designs thriving throughout the years. Things are much different in the sign industry than they were in 1991. Technology has taken over the marketplace. It used to be one guy and a paintbrush. Now everything is done on computers – making it easier to create more engaging signs and offer a bigger breadth of service.

Seeing industry trends shift, they adapted by launching promotional product services through their Identity Crisis division, offering everything from custom apparel and drinkware to office supplies and health products. At the same time, Chicago Sign Designs expanded their signage portfolio, moving beyond static displays to vibrant vehicle wraps. These mobile advertisements now make up about 20% of their business—and that portion continues to grow steadily.

Gary has been active in the community for over 20 years in leadership roles with groups like the GOA Regional Business Association and as President of the Elk Grove Chamber of Commerce. He's pictured here at a GOA After Hours event, thanking Mayor Johnson and Sue Dees.

Keeping it in the community

When the Becker brothers started Chicago Sign Designs in Elk Grove Village they chose the location for the business potential it held, and it has delivered. Gary shares that the majority of their business comes from the Elk Grove Village community, especially those inside the business park. It’s a close-knit network where companies regularly step up to support one another.

The majority of Chicago Sign Designs' clientele comes from the Elk Grove Village community

Personalized apparel and other promotional products have become a key part of Chicago Sign Designs' business

Chicago Sign Designs handles the entire process - manufacturing to installation - of all signs they create

Looking ahead

While others are looking towards retirement, Gary is enjoying the moment and shows no sign of slowing down. “I’m almost 70 years old and I love what I do. I’m having the time of my life!”

For more information, visit Chicago Sign Designs' Website at https://chicagosigndesigns.com/

Number of years Chicago Sign Design has been in business

Percentage of business that comes from corporate apparel

Percentage of business that is B2B