Our History
Celebrating five generations of family ownership and operation, Doyle Signs was founded in 1916 by William J. Doyle as a sign painting and gold leaf enterprise serving local Chicago merchants and real estate firms. Early customers included Jewel Tea Co., National Tea Co. and Heinemann’s Bakeries. Howard J. Doyle and his brother Paul both worked for their cousin Bill in the 1930’s. Bill and Howard later formed a partnership, and the firm was expanded under the direction of Howard J. Doyle from 1955 to 1977. Under Howard’s guidance and passion for building and serving his customers, Doyle Signs expanded its capabilities, producing porcelain and steel letters and signs, as well as thermo-forming. Doyle Signs continued to grow with their customers in the grocery and real estate businesses, participating in the growth of large chains and shopping centers.
Today the Doyles keep in mind the philosophy which has brought the company to its 100th birthday: Take care of the customer with a quality product and great service. Many of their early customers are still with them today. In fact, it is not uncommon for Doyle to work on the same store three, four or five times over the years renovating and upgrading their trusted client’s brands.
Under the direction of Terrence J. Doyle and his brother Patrick A. Doyle the company has continued to grow, completing projects around the country as well as in Canada and Mexico. The continued adoption of new technology including CAD /CAM systems, computerized metal, plastic, wood and vinyl cutting, as well as large format printing have increased creative capabilities and improved productivity. Larger and more advanced cranes and aerial devices have improved safety and efficiency for both employees and customers. The company has also ventured into more large scale custom and municipal projects, often working with stainless steel, glass and other materials that most companies do not. However, a core competency continues to be multi-location retail operations including grocery, fuel, health care, banking, fast food and storage. Doyle Signs has participated in many multi-location rollouts and changeovers throughout the country, both as a manufacturer and installer.
Today, celebrating 100 years of service, Doyle Signs continues to grow and is one of the largest and most capable full service sign companies in the Midwest. Keys to our growth have been our wonderful customers and our talented and dedicated craftsmen. Many Doyle employees have been part of this business for ten, twenty, thirty and even forty years, honing their craft and sharing their talents across the country. Their dedication to serving the customer, providing quality work and going the extra mile keeps our customers coming back. The Doyle family looks forward to serving their customers for another hundred years.
