When creating a point of sale (POS) display, the materials you choose can greatly influence its effectiveness, durability, and aesthetic appeal. The right materials not only showcase your products attractively but also ensure that your display stands up to regular use and continues to look polished over time. In the world of shop fittings UK, there’s a range of options available, each with unique qualities and benefits. But how do you select the best materials for your POS display? Keep on reading.
1. Acrylic – Sleek and Durable
Acrylic is a popular choice in shop fittings UK for POS displays because it’s lightweight, durable, and has a polished look that suits a variety of retail environments. Acrylic’s transparency allows customers to see the full product display without any visual barriers, making it ideal for products that benefit from a full view.
Acrylic can be easily cut, shaped, or coloured, making it perfect for a wide range of POS display types, from simple stands to intricate, custom designs. It’s also easy to clean and maintain, which is crucial for displays that may need frequent refreshing. A quick wipe keeps the acrylic looking clear and professional. While it may scratch more easily than other materials, acrylic’s lightness and clarity make it ideal for displays that need frequent movement or adjustment.
2. Metal – Strong and Long-Lasting
Metal is a solid choice for POS displays, especially for items that require strong support or need a premium feel. They are often used to support heavier products due to their strength and durability. Metal adds an industrial and modern aesthetic, which can be appealing in tech or fashion retail environments. It often gives a sleek, high-end look to the display.
Metal is resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for displays that need to last or that hold weighty products. It’s a go-to material for heavy-duty displays that will see regular customer interaction. Metals like steel, aluminium, or brass can also be finished in various ways—polished, matte, or brushed—allowing for flexibility in the look you want to achieve.
Although metal can be heavier to work with and potentially more expensive than other options, its durability often offsets these concerns, making it a worthwhile investment for permanent fixtures.
3. Wood – Warm and Inviting
For businesses aiming to create a welcoming and natural feel, wood is an excellent choice. A staple in shop fittings UK, wood POS displays work well in environments where warmth and approachability are key to customer experience. Wood offers a timeless, natural look that complements many retail spaces, particularly those with an eco-friendly or artisanal focus.
Wood can be stained, painted, or carved, making it highly customisable. It’s suitable for unique, branded displays that need a personal touch. Many retailers prefer wood as an environmentally friendly material, particularly when sourced from sustainable sources. Reclaimed wood adds character and reduces the environmental footprint.
Wood may require more maintenance than other materials to avoid scuffs or scratches, but the warm, appealing aesthetic it provides often makes it worth the extra care.
4. PVC Foam Board – Lightweight and Budget-Friendly
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet versatile material, PVC foam board is worth considering. Used in many shop fittings UK applications, it’s ideal for temporary or seasonal displays. PVC foam board is a cost-effective solution that’s easy to transport and set up, making it popular for short-term displays or promotional events. This material can be printed on, painted, or even embossed, making it adaptable for a wide range of designs.
PVC foam board resists moisture and doesn’t warp, which makes it suitable for indoor environments where it won’t be subjected to heavy wear and tear. While it may not offer the premium feel of wood or metal, PVC foam board is an affordable choice for seasonal POS displays or signage that doesn’t need to last long-term.
5. Glass – Elegant and High-End
Glass is often used in shop fittings UK when a high-end or elegant look is desired. Though not always practical for every POS display, it offers a sophisticated feel that can elevate luxury products. Glass offers a clean, sleek aesthetic that is perfect for stores focusing on a high-end look. Luxury products such as jewellery or premium cosmetics often benefit from glass displays. It reflects light beautifully, which can enhance the look of products on display, especially in well-lit environments.
While fragile if thin, thicker panels of tempered glass offer durability and are less prone to shattering, making them more suitable for retail. Despite the higher cost and fragility, glass adds a premium, sophisticated look that can enhance the value perception of products, making it ideal for certain high-end displays.
6. Cardboard – Eco-Friendly and Customisable
For temporary setups or promotional events, cardboard can be a surprisingly effective material. Often overlooked, cardboard is not only cost-effective but also sustainable. Cardboard is recyclable and often made from recycled materials, making it a green option for retailers looking to reduce their environmental impact. It’s easy to print on or cut, allowing for creative, branded designs that make a statement. Cardboard is often used for pop-up displays or temporary events.
Cardboard displays are easy to transport and set up, making them perfect for short-term or mobile displays. While it lacks durability for long-term use, cardboard is ideal for short-term promotions, seasonal events, or eco-conscious displays.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Needs
When selecting the best material for your POS display, consider factors like durability, budget, brand aesthetic, and ease of maintenance. In the shop fittings market, you’ll find a wide variety of options, but the right choice ultimately depends on how you plan to use the display.
- Metal and wood offer the durability and premium look needed for displays meant to last.
- PVC foam board and cardboard are affordable and versatile for short-term or seasonal setups.
- Glass and acrylic add sophistication and transparency, ideal for luxury items.
- Wood and cardboard provide environmentally friendly options that resonate with eco-minded customers.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right material for your POS display isn’t just about aesthetics but aligning with your brand values, meeting practical needs, and staying within budget. Each material offers unique benefits and can enhance the shopping experience in its own way.
If you’re searching for the best shop fittings UK has to offer, consider your display’s purpose and how you want customers to perceive your brand. The right choice can make your display a powerful tool for engagement and sales.
Ready to get started? Visit our website or contact us to explore a full range of shop fittings and display materials to find the ideal setup for your products.
