Big, Bold, and Built to Last: Why Billboards and Grand Format Still Dominate

In a world obsessed with pixels, nothing stops traffic quite like a massive, perfectly printed billboard. At Direct Edge, we’ve seen firsthand how grand format print is still one of the most powerful tools for brand visibility—especially when it’s done right.

Why Grand Format Works

Despite the rise of digital advertising, out-of-home (OOH) is growing. According to the Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA), OOH ad revenue hit $8.7 billion in 2023, with billboards making up over 70% of that1. That’s not a trend—it’s a signal: brands still value scale, visibility, and impact.

What Counts as Grand Format?

We’re talking anything larger than life:

  • Bulletins (standard highway billboards – 14’x48′)
  • Wallscapes (building wraps and murals)
  • Transit & Station Takeovers
  • Supergraphics (custom dimensional or die-cut pieces)
  • Event & Stage Backdrops
  • Mesh Building Wraps
  • Window Perf & Vinyl Banners over 100″+ wide


At Direct Edge, we use UV and latex grand format presses to print on a wide variety of substrates including vinyl, mesh, fabric, backlit film, and rigid panels. And yes—we’ve wrapped everything from glass skyscrapers to portable trailers.

Why Brands Keep Coming Back to Billboard Advertising

Guaranteed Impressions

Unlike digital ads that can be skipped or blocked, a billboard is physically unmissable. You’re buying location, not just space.

Hyper-Targeted by Geography

Want to own the 405 during rush hour? How about targeting tourists in Times Square? OOH gives you physical presence where your audience lives, works, and travels.

Brand Authority at Scale

Nothing says “we’ve arrived” like a 60-foot ad staring down a freeway. It’s not just a placement—it’s a statement.

Execution Is Everything

Producing great grand format work isn’t just about scale—it’s about precision. Every square foot has to be color-accurate, consistent, and durable enough to withstand UV rays, wind load, and the occasional pigeon. Whether it’s a 10-story wall wrap or a regional billboard campaign, we deliver print that makes people look up.

We control every step in-house:

  • Color-managed workflows
  • Seamless tiling & stitching
  • Certified installs
  • Project management for national rollouts

Recent Projects

Some of our recent grand format work includes:

Ready to Go Big?

If you’ve got a bold idea—or a massive wall—we’re ready to make it real. Send us a message at info@directedgemedia.com. Let’s talk specs, substrates, and schedules. Because when your message is larger than life, it deserves printing that can back it up.