Cardboard POS displays: which type should you choose for retail stores vs e-commerce?
A well-chosen display attracts the customer’s attention, organizes product space, and creates a positive shopping experience. Depending on the distribution channel, however, these materials serve different functions. In this article, we explain which types of cardboard stands work best in traditional retail, what online brands choose, and what to look for when investing in eco-friendly POS solutions.
What are cardboard POS displays and how do they work across different sales channels?
Cardboard POS displays are lightweight yet durable printed display structures used to showcase products directly at the point of purchase. Their main advantages include high design flexibility, an eco-friendly character, and the ability to customize them for a specific brand or promotional campaign. In brick-and-mortar retail, they drive impulse purchases by moving the product beyond the standard shelf display. In e-commerce , on the other hand, cardboard display formats are used inside packages (so-called Unboxing Displays) or at temporary pop-up store stands, helping maintain consistent brand communication.
Key functions of POS displays in physical stores and online
The main function of POS displays in physical stores is to stimulate impulse purchases by making products stand out in store aisles or checkout areas. In the e-commerce channel, these functions shift toward creating the Unboxing Experience—an elegant cardboard POS display placed inside a bulk package creates a ready-made product presentation as soon as the shipment is opened. In both channels, lightweight cardboard materials simplify logistics and reduce transport costs.
Types of cardboard POS displays – an overview of the most popular options
Several proven cardboard structures dominate the market, each designed to meet different display needs. The most popular include:
- Freestanding and floor displays (Floor Displays).
- Pallet displays and large-format displays.
- Countertop and over-the-counter displays (Counter Displays).
Regardless of the chosen variant, the key is to match the grammage and structure of the corrugated cardboard to the expected load.
Floor displays, countertop displays, stands – characteristics and applications
Floor displays, available for example in the offer of BoxPro—a manufacturer of cardboard packaging—are multi-level structures designed to present a wider product range in store traffic areas. They occupy a separate space, making them ideal for heavier products and promotional sets. Countertop displays, in turn, are smaller stands placed near checkouts or on counters, created for small items purchased on impulse. Cardboard stands and advertising figures (totems) are used mainly for branding and informational purposes, effectively attracting the attention of passing customers.
How to choose the right cardboard POS display for retail and e-commerce?
Choosing the right POS display depends on the specifics of the product, its weight, and the intended display location. For physical stores, it is best to choose rigid floor and countertop models, while in e-commerce, modular displays that facilitate shipping work exceptionally well. It is also important to adapt the structure to the maximum product load and optimize the shipping format to reduce logistics costs.
