What’s The Difference Between POS And POP?

In the competitive retail world, good product displays are important for boosting sales. Two of the most common display types are POS (Point of Sale) displays and POP (Point of Purchase) displays. These two displays may look similar, but they have different uses and affect customers’ buying behavior in big ways. Below, we’ll explain the differences between POS and POP displays to help businesses figure out how to use them to get the most out of their marketing.

What Is a POS Display?
POS (Point of Sale) displays are any displays placed near checkout counters. Their main job is to encourage impulse buys—getting customers to add more items to their shopping baskets right before they pay. These displays are usually small and placed in high-traffic areas. They’re perfect for promoting products like snacks, small electronics, or cosmetics.

The design of retail POS displays changes based on the product and the store’s layout. Common types include POS shelf displays, POS rack systems, and custom POS displays made to match a brand’s style. POS retail displays are small and easy to see. For brands that want to boost sales without using much space, these displays work really well.

Key Features of POS Displays:

Placed next to checkout counters

Focus on small, cheap items for impulse buys

Small and space-saving (often made as shelf displays or countertop displays)

Easy to put together and low-cost

Industries that use POS displays include grocery stores, pharmacies, and convenience stores. Brands like Pringles and Coca-Cola often use custom POS displays to catch the attention of customers who want to buy something at the last minute.

What Is a POP Display?

On the other hand, POP (Point of Purchase) displays are placed in different parts of the store—not just near checkout counters. They’re designed to catch customers’ attention as they shop, promote specific products, and make the brand more visible. POP displays are usually placed near the products they promote, like at the end of aisles or in busy areas.

POP displays do more than just promote products. They can also influence customers’ buying decisions by giving more information about the product or brand. That’s why POP product displays are great for highlighting new products, limited-time deals, or high-profit items. Common types of POP displays include floor displays, POP racks, and POP packaging solutions. Many retailers choose custom POP displays to make sure the design matches their brand.

Key Features of POP Displays:

Placed in different parts of the store (often near the product they promote)

Aim to influence buying decisions and show product features

Larger than POS displays and more eye-catching

POP solutions can be temporary or permanent, depending on how long the promotion lasts

Industries that often use POP displays include electronics, clothing, and home goods stores. Retailers may use creative POP displays to leave a strong impression—for example, by adding unique shapes, graphics, or interactive elements.

Key Differences Between POS and POP Displays

Understanding the key differences between POS and POP displays helps retailers choose the right one for their marketing strategy.

1. Location in the Store

POS displays are near checkout counters, designed to attract customers who are ready to pay. Retail POS displays encourage quick, last-minute buys.

POP displays are in different parts of the store, usually near the product they promote. POP displays aim to inform and engage customers while they shop.

2. Purpose and Function

POS displays focus on encouraging impulse buys, and they usually hold small, cheap items.

POP product displays focus on promoting more expensive or feature-rich products. They improve the customer’s shopping experience and influence their buying decisions.

3. Design and Size

POS solutions are usually small and simple, fitting into small spaces like checkout counters.

POP displays can be more detailed and larger. They use creative designs to create a more engaging experience.

4. Customer Interaction

Interacting with POS displays is quick. Customers don’t need to spend much time or make complicated decisions.

POP displays keep customers engaged longer. They provide product information and encourage customers to learn about new products.

When to Use POS vs. POP Displays

Choosing between POS and POP solutions depends on the retailer’s goals. For example, POS displays work well for promoting small add-on items like candy or lip balm—so they’re perfect for checkout areas. POP displays, on the other hand, are better for launching new products or running special promotions in the store.

Retailers can use POS and POP displays together to create a smooth shopping experience. For example, nice POS displays at the checkout can work with effective POP displays placed in key areas of the store. This helps boost sales at multiple points during the shopping trip.

Benefits of POS Displays

Increase impuls