Need a chuckle? Check out Huntsville's sign wars

When Michelle Petterson, office manager at Coldwell Banker Thompson Real Estate, challenged fellow real estate brokerages to a sign war, she had no idea she’d be igniting a friendly feud amongst businesses all around town.

After reading about sign wars happening in other parts of the province, Petterson shared the story with her staff members. They instantly loved the idea and the team decided to continue the trend in downtown Huntsville.

The original sign war began in Listowel, Ontario between Speedy Auto Glass and Dairy Queen. Speedy Auto Glass began the war by posting: “Hey DQ, wanna have a sign war?”

DQ changed their own sign to read: “You bet your glass we do”.

Petterson and her team challenged Chestnut Park and Re/Max, their competitors in the real estate market, and it’s been heating up all week.

Coldwell’s original sign read: “Hey Chestnut Park, we are homing in on you, wanna start a sign war?”

“I thought that during these dull times with the miserable weather and the lockdown, this silly little thing would bring some laughter and joy in our lives,” said Petterson.

The Great Vine and Pharmasave quickly jumped on board on Tuesday.

“Sign wars is a great opportunity to celebrate local businesses and share a laugh with our neighbours,” said Catherine Cole, owner of The Great Vine.

Other businesses that have either instigated or been challenged to a sign war include Algonquin Outfitters, Soapstones, The Topiary, Reflections of Muskoka, Muskoka Movement, and Surge Physiotherapy.

The Great Vine challenged several downtown Huntsville businesses, including Pharmasave, The Topiary, and Algonquin Outfitters.

And Algonquin Outfitters clapped back.

“It’s been so awesome to see all of these businesses jump on board and play along,” said Petterson. “Even if it’s just for a few days or a week, this little gesture brought some joy into our lives.”