From Layout To Lighting: Designing Effective POS Displays That Sell

NewFrontiers
Email: alex@newfrontiersmarketing.com

posted on 1 week ago — updated on 1 second ago

6
views

Let’s break down what makes a POS display not just good, but great.

Let’s be honest—when was the last time you walked into a store and left with only what you came for? Probably not often. And that’s not entirely your fault. Retailers are pretty darn good at nudging us to add “just one more thing” to our baskets. One of their most powerful tools? Point of Sale (POS) displays.But here’s the thing: not all POS displays are created equal. You’ve probably seen the difference yourself—a checkout area that looks like an afterthought, cluttered with random products and confusing signage, versus one that feels inviting, organized, and oddly persuasive.That’s the magic of good design. From layout to lighting, every detail of a POS display plays a role in influencing a shopper’s final decisions. So if you’re a retailer or merchandiser looking to boost last-minute sales, it’s worth taking a closer look at how to design POS displays that actually work.Let’s break down what makes a POS display not just good, but great. Why Design Matters At The Point Of SaleThink about the mindset of a customer standing at the checkout. They've already made purchase decisions, they’re probably relaxed (or at least not in a rush), and they’ve mentally committed to spending money. That final few minutes in the store is prime real estate for additional sales—but only if what’s in front of them feels worth their attention.That’s where display design comes in. A well-designed POS display:<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Captures attention quickly</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Communicates value clearly</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Makes the product easy to access</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Encourages impulse decisions</li></ul>And to get that balance right, there are a few key ingredients to focus on. 1. Layout: Keep It Simple, Clear, And InvitingThe layout of your POS display should be intuitive and clutter-free. You’re not building a product shrine—you’re creating a mini-moment of decision-making. The golden rule? Less is more.Quick tips:<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Stick to 1–3 product types per display to avoid visual overload.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Use vertical space wisely. Shelving or tiered platforms can help showcase multiple products without crowding the counter.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Create a clear “flow”—especially if the POS display is in a queue or self-checkout line. Guide the customer naturally through what’s available as they approach the register.</li></ul>If it feels overwhelming, customers will tune out. If it’s streamlined, they’ll lean in. 2. Product Selection: Make It A No-BrainerNot every product is POS material. The best items for point of sale displays are:<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Low-cost (typically under $10)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Low-commitment (no need for sizing, research, or deep thought)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Universal or broad appeal</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l6 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Often tied to convenience, curiosity, or a small indulgence</li></ul>Think: snacks, phone chargers, lip balm, travel accessories, small toys, candles, or quirky seasonal items.A good rule of thumb is to ask: “Would someone buy this on a whim?” If yes, it’s POS-friendly. 3. Signage And Messaging: Say It Fast And ClearIn a POS setting, you have about three seconds to catch a shopper’s eye and tell them what’s up. That means <a href="https://hhpointofsale.net/2024/08/13/why-should-my-bar-or-restaurant-business-invest-in-point-of-sale-merchandising/">your signage is important</a>. To capture attention, it should be:<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Bold and easy to read</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Focused on benefits or urgency (“Limited Time Only,” “Add for $5,” “Perfect for Travel”)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l5 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Free from cluttered text or complicated explanations</li></ul>You don’t need full product descriptions. You need quick-hit phrases that spark curiosity or make someone think, “Oh yeah, I do need one of those.” 4. Lighting: The Unsung Hero Of SalesLighting might seem like a background element, but it can have a huge impact on POS performance. Good lighting draws attention, creates contrast, and makes products feel more appealing.Ever noticed how luxury counters are always perfectly lit? That’s not by accident. Lighting tells your customer, “Hey, this stuff matters. Check it out.”Try using:<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Spotlights or small LEDs to highlight displays</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Warm-toned lighting to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l7 level1 lfo5; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Backlighting behind signage to make it pop</li></ul>Even in a tight checkout space, a little extra brightness can go a long way in drawing eyes to the display. 5. Accessibility: Keep It Within ReachYour POS display might look amazing—but if customers can’t easily grab the product, it’s game over. Make sure items are:<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Within arm’s reach of average height</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Not blocked by signage, glass, or other products</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo6; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Clearly priced and easy to add to a basket or counter</li></ul>Bonus points if customers can interact with the item. Tactile engagement (like picking up a lip balm or squeezing a stress ball) makes people more likely to buy. 6. Seasonality & Rotation: Keep Things FreshEven the best POS display loses its charm if it stays the same month after month. People start tuning it out. Keep it fresh by:<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Rotating products monthly or seasonally</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Creating small themed displays (e.g., “Summer Travel Essentials” or “Back to School Grab-n-Go”)</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo7; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Highlighting best-sellers or new arrivals</li></ul>Not only does this keep things exciting for returning customers, but it also gives you a reason to promote new products in a low-stakes, low-effort way. Real Talk: What Works In The Wild?Let’s look at a few real-world examples that nail POS design:<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo8; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Apple Stores: Clean counters, minimal product selection, and bold digital signage. Products feel premium because the layout gives them space to shine.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo8; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Sephora: Small bins and racks line the queue with clearly priced, trial-sized beauty items. Bright lighting and themed sections make the whole experience feel curated.</li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l4 level1 lfo8; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;">Local Cafés Or Bookstores: Mason jars of impulse items (gum, pins, handmade soaps) by the register with hand-written signs. It’s simple, but thoughtful—and it works.</li></ul> The Point Of POS MerchandisingDesigning a POS display that sells isn’t about being flashy or fancy—it’s about being intentional. From how it’s laid out to how it’s lit, every detail sends a message to the customer. A message that says, “Hey, this is worth a look. And it might just be the perfect last-minute add-on.”So whether you’re running a boutique, a big-box retail store, or something in between, don’t overlook the power of your checkout space. With a little thought and creativity, your POS area can do a whole lot more than just process payments—it can drive real, meaningful sales.And all it takes is the right product, the right placement, and a little spotlight.