Corrugated POP Display Printing
Point-of-purchase (POP) displays are designed to capture shopper attention and influence buying decisions. Beyond structure and branding, the quality of print determines how well a display communicates from multiple viewing angles in a retail environment. Selecting the right printing method ensures your display performs both visually and functionally.
Printing Methods for Corrugated POP Displays
Not all printing methods are suited for corrugated displays. Each has its own strengths and trade-offs in cost, speed, quality, and run size. The three most common methods are:
Flexographic Printing
Flexographic printing uses plates to apply ink as material passes through rollers.
Advantages
Cost-Efficient at Scale: Once plates are created, cost per unit is low for large or repeat orders.
Pantone Accurate: Ensures precise color matching across production runs.
Versatile: Works on uneven surfaces and a wide range of substrates.
High Speed: Suited for mass production.
Limitations
High Startup Costs: Plates and tooling are expensive, making short runs less economical.
Poor for Sampling: Costly and impractical to produce prototypes.
Best Fit: Large-volume retail displays where consistency and color accuracy are priorities.
Digital Printing
Digital printing applies artwork directly from a file to the substrate, eliminating plates.
Advantages
Low Startup Cost: Cost-effective for short runs and prototypes.
Fast Turnaround: Ideal for tight deadlines or seasonal campaigns.
Flexible: Easily handles multiple SKUs or frequent artwork changes.
High Quality: Produces sharp graphics suitable for branded displays.
Limitations
Less Economical at Scale: Higher cost per unit for large volumes.
Color Variability: Approx. 95% accurate; not a perfect Pantone match.
Slower Mass Output: Not as efficient as flexographic presses for high quantities.
Best Fit: Small-batch retail displays, prototypes, or variable-data campaigns.
Lithographic (Offset) Printing
Lithographic printing transfers ink from a plate to a rubber blanket, then onto the substrate, with options for coatings or varnishes.
Advantages
Highest Quality: Sharp, detailed graphics with accurate color reproduction.
Premium Finishes: Coatings and varnishes enhance durability and appearance.
Scalable: Handles small to large format prints.
Limitations
High Setup Cost: Plates and setup make short runs expensive.
Not Sample-Friendly: Prototypes are cost-prohibitive.
Longer Lead Time: Setup and adjustments require planning.
Best Fit: High-volume displays where premium image quality is essential for brand impact.`
Designing Graphics for POP Displays
Effective POP displays combine structure with clear, impactful graphics. Common elements include:
Logos and Brand Colors
Product Imagery
Text (ingredients, instructions, contact info)
Symbols and Icons
Promotions or Pricing
Call-to-Action Messaging
Mascots or Characters
Any artwork provided must be adjusted to fit dielines correctly. Designers ensure bleed, folds, and structural features align with graphics to avoid misprints.
Choosing the Right Printing Method
When selecting a printing process, consider:
Quality: Lithographic offers the highest resolution; flexographic is durable but less detailed.
Budget and Quantity: Flexographic suits large runs, digital works best for small runs, lithographic for high-volume premium graphics.
Lead Time: Digital is fastest due to no plate requirements.
Brand Goals: For premium retail impact, lithographic justifies higher cost; for efficiency, flexographic is the workhorse.
Buyer Takeaway
Use flexographic printing for large-scale runs that need durability and consistent Pantone colors.
Choose digital printing for prototypes, short runs, or campaigns with multiple SKUs.
Invest in lithographic printing for premium displays that require sharp, high-quality graphics.
Selecting the right method ensures POP displays not only stand out visually but also align with budget and timeline requirements.
References
Association of Independent Corrugated Converters (AICC). (2024). Printing Methods in Corrugated Packaging. Retrieved from https://www.aiccbox.org
Flexible Packaging Association. (2023). Digital vs. Flexographic Printing. Retrieved from https://www.flexpack.org
Robertson, G. L. (2016). Food Packaging: Principles and Practice (3rd ed.). CRC Press.
Managing packaging for your business is more than just ordering boxes and labels—it’s about sourcing the right materials, coordinating timelines, ensuring quality, and staying aligned
When it comes to packaging, cutting costs doesn’t mean cutting corners. The most cost-effective packaging solutions are those that balance performance, simplicity, and scalability. Whether
Your customers are constantly giving you clues—through reviews, support tickets, returns, and even social media posts. If you’re listening closely, you’ll find that consumer feedback
A great packaging supplier can do more than just deliver boxes or pouches—they can become a valuable partner in your product’s success. When you build
Packaging prices don’t always stay still. Whether due to raw material costs, tariffs, labor increases, or supply chain shifts, price hikes can hit unexpectedly—and impact
When most buyers think of packaging design, they picture logos, colors, and graphics—but what’s often overlooked is structural design: the way your box is shaped,
By submitting your information, you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy.
The retail landscape is in a constant state of evolution, shaped by dynamic consumer behaviors and emerging trends. As consumer preferences continue to shift, retailers
Creating impactful promotional messaging for Point of Purchase (POP) displays is vital for capturing customer interest and driving sales. This guide explores essential strategies for
When it comes to retail marketing, Point of Purchase (POP) displays are essential for capturing customer attention and promoting your products effectively. The size and