POS VS. POP: What Is the Difference?

In the competitive world of retail, effective product displays play a crucial role in driving sales. Among the most popular options are POS (Point of Sale) and POP (Point of Purchase) display stands. While these two types of displays may seem similar, they serve distinct purposes and can significantly impact consumer buying behavior. This article will explore the differences between POS and POP display stands, offering insights into how businesses can utilize each to maximize their marketing potential.

What is a POS Display Stand?

A POS display stand (Point of Sale) refers to any display placed near the checkout counter. The primary function of POS display units is to trigger impulse purchases, encouraging customers to add additional items to their shopping basket right before completing a transaction. These displays are typically small and strategically positioned in areas with high foot traffic, making them ideal for promoting POS display products such as snacks, small electronics, or cosmetics.

The design of retail POS displays varies depending on the product and the store layout. Popular types include POS shelf displays, POS rack systems, and custom POS displays tailored to specific brand aesthetics. The compact size and high visibility of POS retail displays make them an excellent tool for brands looking to boost sales with minimal space.

Key Characteristics of POS Display Stands:

- Positioned at checkout counters.

- Focus on impulse buys and small, inexpensive items.

- Compact and space-efficient, often in the form of POS shelf displays or countertop displays.

- Easy to assemble and cost-effective.

Examples of industries using retail POS stands include grocery stores, pharmacies, and convenience stores. Brands like Pringles and Coca-Cola often rely on bespoke POS stands to catch the attention of customers making last-minute purchases.

What is a POP Display Stand?

In contrast, POP displays (Point of Purchase) are positioned throughout the store, not just near the checkout area. They are designed to catch the shopper's attention as they navigate the store, promoting specific products and enhancing brand visibility. POP stands can be found near the product they promote, often at the end of aisles or in high-traffic sections.

POP displays stand for more than just product promotion; they can influence purchasing decisions by providing additional information about the product or brand. This makes POP product displays ideal for highlighting new products, limited-time offers, or high-margin items. Common types of POP display stands include floor displays, pop display racks, and POP display packaging solutions. Many retailers opt for custom POP displays to ensure a cohesive look that aligns with their brand.

Key Characteristics of POP Display Stands:

- Located throughout the store, often near the promoted product.

- Aimed at influencing purchasing decisions and showcasing product features.

- Larger and more visually impactful than POS displays.

- POP display solutions can be temporary or permanent POP displays, depending on the promotion's duration.

Industries that frequently use POP displays include electronics, clothing, and home goods. Retailers may use creative POP displays to make a lasting impression, integrating unique shapes, graphics, and interactive elements.

Key Differences Between POS and POP Display Stands

Understanding the key differences between POS displays and POP display stands can help retailers choose the right option for their marketing strategy.

1. Location in the Store:

   - POS displays are situated near the checkout area, designed to attract customers who are ready to pay. Retail POS displays encourage quick, last-minute purchases.

   - POP displays, on the other hand, are positioned throughout the store, typically near the promoted product. P O P displays aim to educate and engage customers while they shop.

2. Purpose and Functionality:

   - POS display units focus on triggering impulse purchases, typically featuring small and low-cost items.

   - POP product displays focus on promoting higher-priced or feature-rich products, enhancing the customer's shopping experience and influencing buying decisions.

3. Design and Size:

   - POS display solutions are often compact and simple, fitting into smaller spaces like checkout counters.

   - POP displays can be more elaborate and large-scale, using innovative POP displays to create a more immersive experience.

4. Customer Interaction:

   - POS stands for quick interaction, often requiring little time or decision-making from the customer.

   - POP displays engage customers for longer, providing product information and encouraging them to explore new products.

When to Use POS vs. POP Display Stands

Deciding between POS display solutions and POP display solutions depends on the retailer's goals. For instance, POS displays are highly effective for promoting small, add-on items like candy or lip balm, making them ideal for checkout areas. On the other hand, POP displays are better suited for new product launches or special promotions within the store.

Retailers can combine POS displays and POP stands to create a seamless shopping experience. For example, cool POS displays at the checkout can complement best POP displays strategically placed throughout the store, driving sales at multiple touchpoints.

Benefits of POS Display Stands

- Increase impulse purchases: By placing small items within arm’s reach at checkout, displays POS units can easily boost sales.

- Cross-sell opportunities: Custom POS displays offer opportunities to promote complementary products, like batteries near electronics.

- Space-efficient: Retail POS stands are designed to maximize use of limited space in high-traffic areas.

Benefits of POP Display Stands

- Brand visibility: POP product displays create a strong visual impact and reinforce brand messaging throughout the store.

- Drive product discovery: With creative POP displays, customers are more likely to discover new or seasonal products.

- Versatility: From temporary displays to permanent POP displays, popdisplays offer flexibility in design and placement.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between POS and POP display stands is essential for any retailer looking to optimize their in-store marketing strategy. POS stands focus on last-minute, impulse-driven purchases, while POP stands aim to influence customer decisions throughout the store. By choosing the right type of display, retailers can significantly improve product visibility and drive sales.

Whether you're looking for bespoke POS stands or custom POP displays, finding the right solution to showcase your products can enhance customer engagement and increase revenue. POS display companies like WOW can offer innovative, tailored solutions to help your brand stand out in a crowded retail environment.