How Custom POP Displays Drive Holiday Sales

The fourth quarter is the most critical time of year for retailers. Holiday shoppers are out in full force, ready to spend. So, how do you make sure they're spending with you? You need a strategy that stops customers in their tracks. This is where custom POP displays can completely change the game. These displays are more than just pretty fixtures; they are powerful tools designed to grab attention, tell a story, and drive those all-important Q4 sales.

Are Custom POP Displays the Key to a Strong Q4?

Before we get into how custom POP displays can change your retail space, we want to dive into the why first. The holiday season can sometimes be a sensory overload for customers. It’s your job to find the middle ground between what is enticing yet not annoying in terms of retail displays. A custom POP display can do just that. It’s great for selling high-margin priced items by strategically placing them near these high-margin items, gift sets, or exclusive holiday products in a custom display to draw attention and encourage impulse buys. Also, well-placed displays can guide customers through your store, leading them to key product areas and preventing traffic jams during busy periods.

What is a Point of Purchase (POP) Display?

So, what exactly is a point of purchase (POP) display? Think of them as dedicated sales tools within your store. In simple terms, POP displays are special signs and fixtures designed to showcase specific products and brands right where customers make their buying decisions. They are strategically placed to interrupt a shopper's normal pattern and draw their eyes to a featured item. Whether it’s a freestanding cardboard unit filled with holiday-themed candy or a sleek, permanent fixture showing off a new line of electronics, the core purpose is the same: to make a product impossible to ignore at the critical moment of purchase.

These displays are more than just shelves; they are curated experiences. They separate a product from the visual noise of a crowded aisle, giving it a spotlight. This is especially powerful during the Q4 rush when shoppers are often on a mission and might overlook items on standard shelving. By creating a distinct, branded zone for a product, you’re not just stocking it—you’re presenting it. This approach is fundamental to moving high-priority inventory and making the most of every square foot of your retail space during the busiest shopping season of the year.

The Goal: Influence Buying Decisions

The ultimate goal of any POP display is to influence customer behavior and drive sales. These displays are your silent salespeople, working to capture attention and encourage a purchase. According to Grandstand, "They help grab people's attention, tell your brand's story, and encourage customers to buy things." A well-designed display does this by breaking up the monotony of the shopping aisle and presenting a product in a compelling way. It can highlight a special promotion, introduce a new item, or simply make a popular product more accessible, which is key for encouraging those valuable impulse buys that add up quickly.

Beyond just moving units, POP displays are a powerful tool for brand building. They create a focused space where "your logo and message stand out," reinforcing brand identity right at the point of sale. For a national retailer rolling out a seasonal campaign, consistent and high-quality displays ensure that the brand story is told effectively across every single location. The right display doesn't just sell a product; it communicates value, quality, and excitement, turning a simple transaction into a memorable brand interaction that can foster long-term loyalty.

Common Locations for POP Displays

Where you place a POP display is just as important as how it looks. The most effective locations are high-traffic areas where customers are already in a purchasing mindset. The checkout counter is a classic spot, perfect for smaller, impulse-buy items like gift cards, snacks, or stocking stuffers. As customers wait in line, their attention naturally wanders, making a well-stocked counter display an easy way to increase the average transaction value. End caps—the spaces at the end of aisles—are another piece of prime real estate, as they are visible from the main walkways and catch shoppers as they move between sections.

While these are the most common spots, the versatility of POP displays means they can be used almost anywhere in a store. You can find them on shelves to highlight a specific brand, in wide-open spaces as freestanding floor units, or even near the entrance to announce a major promotion. The source Grandstand notes that you can use them "in stores (on shelves, at check-out counters), at trade shows, pop-up events, and in places like restaurants or bars." For retailers, the key is to place them along the natural path a customer takes through the store, creating opportunities for discovery and purchase at every turn.

Exploring Different Types of POP Displays

Not all POP displays are created equal, and the variety available means you can find the perfect fit for any product, campaign, or store layout. The options range from large, attention-grabbing floor displays to small, subtle counter units. According to Creative Displays Now, the list of possibilities is extensive, including "Floor displays, Counter displays, Pallet displays, Retail signs, End cap displays, Power wing/sidekick displays, Display bins, Inline displays, [and] Brochure holders." Choosing the right type is crucial for success and depends entirely on your specific goals—are you trying to move a high volume of a single product, or are you looking to cross-promote complementary items?

For large-scale rollouts across dozens or hundreds of stores, partnering with an expert can help you select and design the most effective displays for your campaign. A team that understands the nuances of retail environments can guide you through the entire process, from initial concept to final installation. At S-CUBE, we specialize in creating custom fixture programs that align with your brand, budget, and timeline. By analyzing your products and store layouts, we can help you determine whether a massive pallet display or a series of compact power wings will deliver the best return on your investment, ensuring a cohesive and impactful presentation in every location.

Large Format: Floor, Pallet, and End Cap Displays

When you want to make a big statement, large-format displays are the way to go. Floor displays are freestanding units that can be placed in open areas to create a "store-within-a-store" experience. They are perfect for launching a new product or creating a seasonal destination, like a "Holiday Gift Center." Pallet displays are even larger and are often used for high-volume, fast-moving goods. They typically arrive pre-stocked from the manufacturer, making them easy to set up and ideal for showcasing bulk items like cases of beverages or large gift sets that are popular during Q4.

End cap displays are some of the most valuable pieces of real estate in any retail store. Positioned at the end of an aisle, they catch the eye of shoppers moving through the main thoroughfares. This high visibility makes them perfect for promoting sales, seasonal items, and new arrivals. Because they attract so much attention, end caps are an excellent place to feature higher-margin products. A well-executed end cap can stop a customer in their tracks and introduce them to a product they might have otherwise missed, making it a powerful driver of both planned and impulse purchases.

Smaller Footprints: Countertop and Power Wing Displays

While large displays are great for grabbing attention from afar, smaller displays excel at converting interest at close range. Countertop displays are a prime example. Placed right at the checkout, they capitalize on a captive audience. These compact units are perfect for encouraging last-minute additions to a purchase, such as lip balm, gift cards, or single-serve treats. Since the customer is already committed to making a purchase, the barrier to adding one more small item is incredibly low, making these displays a simple yet effective tool for increasing basket size.

Power wing, or sidekick, displays offer another clever way to merchandise products without taking up valuable shelf space. These displays hang on the side of end caps or other shelving units, making them ideal for cross-merchandising. For example, you could hang a power wing of batteries next to an end cap of electronic toys, or one with festive cocktail mixers next to the liquor aisle. This strategic placement puts complementary products right where the customer needs them, simplifying the shopping experience and encouraging additional sales through smart, convenient suggestions.

Informational and Branded Signage

Sometimes, the most effective POP display isn’t about holding a product at all—it’s about providing information. Branded signage, brochure holders, and other informational displays play a critical role in guiding the customer’s journey and telling your brand’s story. A simple, well-designed sign can announce a limited-time holiday sale, explain the key benefits of a complex product, or direct shoppers to a different part of the store. These elements help educate consumers and build their confidence, empowering them to make a purchase decision on the spot.

These displays are essential for creating a cohesive and navigable shopping environment, especially during the hectic holiday season. Brochure holders can offer detailed information, recipes, or style guides that customers can take with them, extending the brand interaction beyond the store. By integrating clear and compelling signage into your overall POP strategy, you can answer customer questions before they’re even asked, highlight your brand’s unique value proposition, and create a smoother, more enjoyable shopping experience that encourages both immediate sales and future loyalty.

Materials Matter: From Cardboard to Custom Fixtures

The material you choose for your POP display has a huge impact on its look, feel, durability, and cost. The options range from temporary, cost-effective solutions like corrugated cardboard to permanent fixtures made from wood, metal, or acrylic. As The BoxMaker notes, custom displays "help products stand out when shoppers have many choices." For short-term seasonal promotions, like a Black Friday doorbuster, cardboard is often the perfect choice. It’s lightweight, fully customizable with vibrant graphics, and easy to recycle after the campaign ends. This makes it ideal for fast-paced retail environments where displays need to be swapped out frequently.

For more evergreen products or a brand that wants to project a higher-end image, more durable materials are a better fit. A custom-built wood display can add a sense of warmth and quality, while sleek metal or acrylic fixtures can create a modern, premium feel. The right material choice reinforces your brand identity and can withstand the wear and tear of a busy retail floor. At S-CUBE, our design and engineering teams work with a wide array of materials to create fixtures that are not only beautiful but also built to last, ensuring your investment continues to pay off long after the holiday season is over.

Why Corrugated Cardboard is a Popular Choice

There’s a reason corrugated cardboard is a go-to material for so many POP displays, especially for seasonal campaigns. Its biggest advantage is its versatility and cost-effectiveness. Cardboard can be cut, folded, and printed in virtually any shape or design, allowing for incredible creativity without the high costs associated with more permanent materials. This makes it possible for brands to test new display concepts or roll out large-scale, multi-store promotions without a massive financial commitment. Its lightweight nature also reduces shipping costs and makes assembly in-store quick and easy for retail staff.

Furthermore, cardboard is an excellent canvas for branding. High-quality printing techniques can transform a simple brown box into a vibrant, eye-catching display that tells a brand’s story. As The BoxMaker points out, many suppliers "use materials that are good for the environment, like recyclable corrugated cardboard." This sustainability factor is increasingly important to both brands and consumers. The ability to create an affordable, effective, and recyclable display makes corrugated cardboard a smart and responsible choice for temporary promotions, allowing retailers to keep their stores fresh and exciting without generating unnecessary waste.

The Growing Importance of Sustainable Materials

Today’s shoppers are more environmentally conscious than ever, and they often prefer to support brands that share their values. This shift has made sustainable materials a key consideration in POP display design. Using eco-friendly options is no longer just a bonus—it’s a powerful way to connect with your customers and strengthen your brand’s reputation. Corrugated cardboard is a leader in this area. According to Creative Displays Now, their cardboard is "100% recyclable and made from 60-95% recycled materials," which resonates strongly with shoppers who are looking to make responsible purchasing decisions.

The focus on sustainability extends beyond just cardboard. For more permanent fixtures, brands are increasingly seeking out responsibly sourced wood, recycled metals, and other eco-friendly materials. Highlighting your commitment to sustainability through your displays can be a significant differentiator. Whether it’s a small sign indicating that the display is recyclable or a larger brand initiative focused on environmental responsibility, these choices matter. By opting for sustainable materials, you’re not only reducing your environmental footprint but also sending a clear message to your customers that your brand is thoughtful and forward-thinking.

Your Guide to Winning Q4 with Custom Displays

Custom displays are great for your store because you have full control over how you want them to look. What you do with them once you’ve designed and ordered them is a whole other story. Read below for some tips S-Cube Fixtures thinks work best in boosting Q4 sales.

Lay the Groundwork: Plan Your Campaign Early

Success in Q4 begins long before the first holiday decorations go up. You should start planning your custom POP display strategy in late Q2 or early Q3.

• Identify Key Products: Determine which products you want to highlight. Will it be seasonal bestsellers, exclusive gift bundles, or new product launches? Your product selection will dictate the display's design and function.
• Define Your Goals: Is the primary goal to move a specific product, increase basket size, or build brand awareness? Clear goals will help you measure the success of your displays.
• Align with Your Marketing: Make sure your POP displays are a physical extension of your overall Q4 marketing campaign. The messaging, colors, and branding should be consistent across all channels—from your website to your in-store experience.

Related Article: Why Your Store Needs a Design Glow Up

How to Design a Display That Actually Sells

The design of your custom POP display is crucial. It needs to be more than just a pretty shelf; it needs to be a sales machine.

• Embrace the Holiday Spirit (with a Twist): While classic holiday themes (red, green, snowflakes) work, don't be afraid to innovate. A design that reflects your unique brand identity while still feeling festive can be more memorable. Think about materials like rustic wood for an organic brand or sleek metal and acrylic for a modern tech company.
• Think Modularity: For retail chains, a modular design is a smart investment. A display that can be easily updated or reconfigured for different promotions (from Halloween to Christmas to New Year's) offers greater long-term value and flexibility across multiple store layouts.

Does Your Display Placement Matter? (Yes, a Lot)

Where you place your POP displays is just as important as how they look.

• High-Traffic Zones: The entrance of your store, the ends of aisles (endcaps), and the area near the checkout counter are prime real estate. These are locations where every customer will pass, maximizing visibility.
• Create "Destination" Zones: Group related products together in a "shop-within-a-shop" experience. For example, create a "Perfect Gifts for Him" display that features items from different departments, making it easy for shoppers on a mission.
• The Decompression Zone: The area just inside the store entrance is known as the "decompression zone." Customers are adjusting to the store's environment here. Place a bold, visually striking display in this area to make a strong first impression and set the tone for their shopping trip.

Bringing Your Custom Display to Life: The Process

Once you have a solid plan for your Q4 campaign, it's time to move from concept to creation. This is where your vision for a show-stopping display becomes a physical reality. The process involves several critical stages, each requiring expertise and attention to detail. Getting this right is essential for ensuring your displays are not only beautiful but also durable, functional, and delivered on time for the holiday rush. A well-executed production process turns a good idea into a powerful sales tool that can withstand the busiest shopping season of the year.

From Design and Engineering to Prototyping

The first step is translating your creative vision into a buildable design. This is more than just sketching an idea; it involves detailed engineering to ensure the display is structurally sound and can hold your products securely. You need a design that reflects your brand's identity and makes your products stand out. This is also the stage where you create a prototype. A physical sample allows you to see and feel the display, test its functionality, and make any necessary adjustments before committing to a full production run. This step is crucial for catching potential issues early and guaranteeing the final product meets your expectations for a multi-store rollout.

The Role of Modern Manufacturing and Printing

After you approve the prototype, the project moves into manufacturing. This is where your displays are produced at scale. Modern manufacturing techniques and high-quality materials are key to achieving a premium look and feel. For instance, advanced digital printing allows for vibrant, full-color graphics that can capture a customer's attention from across the store. The choice of materials—whether it's wood, metal, acrylic, or sustainable options—also plays a huge role in the display's final appearance and durability. Consistent quality across every single unit is vital, especially for national brands that need a uniform experience in every location.

Why a Full-Service Partner is a Game-Changer

Managing a custom display project from start to finish involves many moving parts, from design and manufacturing to shipping and logistics. Working with a full-service partner simplifies this entire process immensely. Instead of coordinating with multiple vendors, you have a single point of contact that oversees every detail. A dedicated team that handles project management ensures your deadlines are met and that the final displays are delivered correctly to all your store locations. This integrated approach not only saves you time and headaches but also ensures a seamless execution, allowing you to focus on your overall Q4 sales strategy.

Let's Bring Your Custom POP Display to Life

It’s also all about who you get your custom POP displays from. You don’t want to spend all this money on a cheap retail fixture, so team up with S-Cube Fixtures today and see how we’re one of the best. We can make sure your custom displays are durable, safe, and designed to meet your budget and needs as a retailer. Custom POP displays are a powerful investment in your Q4 success. Don't let your products get lost in the holiday clutter. Make them the star of the show.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it so important to plan our Q4 displays months in advance? Starting your planning in the spring or summer might feel early, but it's the key to a smooth rollout. The process of designing, engineering, prototyping, manufacturing, and shipping a custom display program for multiple stores takes time. Rushing it can lead to design compromises or logistical headaches right when you can least afford them. Planning ahead gives you the space to be creative, test a prototype, and ensure every display arrives on time and ready to perform during the most critical sales period of the year.

How do I decide between a temporary cardboard display and a more permanent fixture? The right material really comes down to your campaign's goals and duration. Corrugated cardboard is fantastic for short-term, high-impact promotions like a Black Friday special or a specific holiday launch. It's cost-effective, visually versatile, and easy to recycle. For a more long-term brand statement or to showcase an evergreen product line, investing in durable materials like wood, metal, or acrylic makes more sense. These fixtures communicate a premium quality and are built to handle the daily wear and tear of a busy retail environment.

What's the first step to creating a custom display if we've never done it before? The best place to start is by defining your objective. You don't need a perfect sketch or a fully-formed idea. Simply ask: which product do we want to feature, and what is our primary goal? Is it to move a high volume of a specific item, or is it to tell a brand story? Once you have that clarity, the next step is to talk with a full-service fixture partner. They can take your core idea and guide you through the entire process, from initial design concepts and engineering to creating a prototype that brings your vision to life.

How can we ensure our custom displays will work for different store layouts across all our locations? This is a common challenge for regional and national chains, and the solution lies in smart, adaptable design. When developing your display, a good partner will consider the various footprints and layouts of your stores. The answer is often a modular design—a system of components that can be configured in different ways to fit larger or smaller spaces. This ensures you get a consistent, on-brand look in every single location without having to create dozens of completely different displays.

Beyond a simple lift in sales, how can we measure the success of our POP display campaign? While tracking the sales of the featured product is the most direct metric, it isn't the only one. You can also look at the impact on the average transaction value to see if the display is encouraging impulse buys. Pay attention to how it affects the sales of complementary products placed nearby. You can also gather qualitative feedback from your store associates on customer interactions with the display. A truly successful display doesn't just sell a product; it creates a memorable experience that gets customers and staff talking.

Key Takeaways

• Placement is everything: Use high-traffic areas like end caps and checkout counters to interrupt the customer's path and encourage last-minute purchases during the holiday rush.
• Match the material to the mission: Choose cost-effective cardboard for temporary seasonal campaigns and invest in durable materials like wood or metal for displays that reinforce a premium brand image long-term.
• Early planning prevents problems: Start your Q4 display strategy in late spring or early summer to leave enough time for design, prototyping, and manufacturing, ensuring a timely and successful rollout across all your locations.