The Future of POP Displays: How Cardboard is Leading the Way

In the fast-paced world of retail and marketing, Point-of-Purchase (POP) displays are more than just product holders—they’re powerful tools that bridge brands and customers, drive impulse buys, and shape in-store experiences. As consumers grow more eco-conscious and retailers seek cost-effective, flexible solutions, a surprising hero has emerged to redefine the future of POP displays: cardboard.

At GRAND FLY, we’ve spent 16 years perfecting custom cardboard displays that blend sustainability, functionality, and visual appeal—and today, we’re seeing firsthand how this humble material is outpacing traditional options like plastic, metal, and acrylic. Let’s explore why cardboard is becoming the go-to choice for forward-thinking brands and how it’s leading the next era of POP display innovation.

1. Sustainability: Meeting the Demand for Eco-Friendly Retail

Consumers no longer just prefer sustainable brands—they expect them. A 2024 study by Nielsen found that 73% of global shoppers are willing to pay more for products packaged or displayed in eco-friendly materials, and 65% actively avoid brands that use excessive plastic. Cardboard displays address this demand head-on:

• 100% Recyclable & Biodegradable: Unlike plastic displays that linger in landfills for centuries, cardboard is made from renewable wood pulp and can be easily recycled or composted after use. This reduces a brand’s carbon footprint and aligns with global sustainability goals (such as the UN’s Net Zero targets).
• Low Carbon Production: Manufacturing cardboard requires far less energy and water than producing plastic or metal displays. Our production process at GRAND FLYfurther minimizes waste by using recycled cardboard fibers and eco-friendly inks, ensuring every display is as green as it is effective.
• Brand Reputation Boost: Displaying products in cardboard sends a clear message: your brand cares about the planet. This builds trust with eco-conscious shoppers and differentiates your products on crowded retail shelves—turning sustainability into a competitive advantage.

2. Cost-Effectiveness: Maximize ROI Without Sacrificing Quality

For retailers and brands, budget is always a top priority—and cardboard displays deliver unbeatable value. Compared to rigid materials like plastic or metal:

• Lower Production Costs: Cardboard is lightweight, easy to cut, and requires minimal tooling, which translates to lower manufacturing fees. Whether you need 500or 5,000 displays, GRAND FLY scales production to keep costs affordable.
• Reduced Shipping & Storage Expenses: Cardboard displays are collapsible, meaning they take up 70-80% less space during shipping and storage. This cuts down on transportation costs (fewer trucks needed!) and eliminates the need for large warehouses—saving you money at every step.
• Flexible for Short-Term Campaigns: Unlike expensive, permanent displays, cardboard is ideal for seasonal promotions (think holiday gift guides or summer sales) or limited-edition products. You get high-impact visuals without committing to long-term costs.

3. Customization: Bring Your Brand Vision to Life

One of the biggest myths about cardboard is that it’s “one-size-fits-all”—but at GRAND FLY, we prove otherwise. Cardboard’s versatility allows us to create fully custom displays tailored to your brand, products, and retail space:

• Endless Design Possibilities: From countertop displays for small gadgets to floor-standing units for apparel or groceries, GRAND FLYdesigns cardboard displays in any shape, size, or color. Add your logo, brand colors, or even QR codes to drive digital engagement—all with crisp, high-quality printing.
• Product-Specific Features: Need a display with shelves for snacks? A hanging unit for toys? Or a secure holder for electronics? GRAND FLYintegrates features like dividers, hooks, or windows to showcase your products in the best light and make shopping easier for customers.

4. Durability: Strong Enough for Retail, Gentle on the Planet

Skeptics often ask: “Is cardboard strong enough for busy retail stores?” The answer is a resounding yes. Our cardboard displays at GRAND FLY are made from high-grade, corrugated cardboard—same material used to ship heavy electronics and appliances—so they can withstand daily handling, customer interactions, and even light moisture (with optional water-resistant coatings).

GRAND FLY tests every display for durability, ensuring it holds up to the weight of your products and stays intact throughout its lifecycle. And when it’s time to replace it? Simply recycle it—no waste, no hassle.

Join the Cardboard POP Display Revolution

The future of POP displays isn’t about flashy, unsustainable materials—it’s about smart, eco-friendly solutions that work for brands, retailers, and the planet. Cardboard checks every box: it’s sustainable, cost-effective, customizable, and durable.

At GRAND FLY, we’re proud to be leaders in this revolution. Whether you’re a small boutique or a global brand, we’ll work with you to create custom cardboard displays that drive sales, enhance your brand image, and contribute to a greener future.

Ready to see how cardboard can transform your POP strategy? Contact GRAND FLY today for a free design consultation, and let’s build a display that stands out—for all the right reasons.