This thread was suggested to me (in an automated way) as I was posting a font inquiry this morning (thanks again Tiki). I've read all the posts, and it's interesting that what can sometimes seem to be only happening to "me" (or you) in isolation, it's obviously widespread. I've been in the sign trade for 28 years, and began hand-lettering, learning the importance of sound layout & design, and then watching that discipline in the trade go down the drain over the years, largely thanks to computers, franchises, and the opening of the floodgates of people with zero experience or design skills opening up sign shops, stepping on the gas peddle in the race to the bottom on prices.
It has eroded my enjoyment of the business, I'm burned out; but added to what has already been outlined in the OP, is the growing disloyalty of customers, and I'm sure you've all experienced that too. I've had numerous customers who I had treated & served like royalty, only to have them drop me like a hot potato for some other sign shop, no doubt to save $8.00 on a $200.00 sign.
If I could retire tomorrow I would, as my faith in humanity is at an all-time low, but unfortunately it'll be another 5-10 years of arm wrestling with customers over design and price.
