Which Retail Displays Work Best? Pros and Cons of Popular Store Displays

When it comes to running a successful retail store, store displays play a vital role in showcasing your products and influencing customer behavior. But which type of display is right for your store? From commercial glass display cabinets to gondola displays, each option comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular retail displays to help store owners make informed decisions. For deeper background first, read our complete guide on what makes great retail displays.

1. Commercial Glass Display Cabinet

Pros

• Enhanced Visibility: A commercial glass display cabinet can provide a clear view of items, making them ideal for jewelry, electronics, CBD or cannabis products, and more.
• Security: Choosing a commercial glass display cabinet that comes with a lock can protect your products from theft or damage.
• Elegant Aesthetic: The sleek design enhances the look of your store, projecting a premium feel that attracts customers.
• Durability: High-quality tempered glass ensures that these displays are sturdy and long-lasting.
• Variety: There are many options to choose from when it comes to the right commercial glass display cabinet for your retail store. From full-vision, extra-vision, to half-vision, LED add-ons, and more, these showcases are adaptable to your store’s needs while preserving the aesthetics and security of your merchandise.

Cons

• Limited Accessibility: Customers can’t pick up or feel the products themselves, which might deter some hands-on shoppers.
• Higher Cost: A commercial glass display cabinet can be more expensive than other options.
• Maintenance: Glass requires regular cleaning to maintain its polished, smudge-free appearance.

Best for 

Luxury or specialty stores looking to highlight high-value or sensitive products while maintaining security and style, smoke shops, vape shops, collectible stores, eyewear shops, and perfumeries

2. Gondola Displays

Pros

• Versatility: Gondola displays can hold a wide variety of products, from groceries to liquor to cosmetics. Gondola shelving is highly modular, as you can choose from a variety of depths and make it customizable to your store’s size.
• Adjustable Shelving: The height and arrangement of shelves can easily be configured to fit different product sizes. 
• Space Efficiency: These displays maximize vertical and horizontal space, making them ideal for stores with limited floor space. Tight on retail floor space? Maximize with these 4 display types.
• Cost-Effective: They are more affordable compared to other premium display options when you consider the weight capacity that gondola shelving units can hold.

Cons

• Less Aesthetic Appeal: Gondola displays focus more on functionality than design, which might not work as well for upscale stores. 
• Crammed Look: If not sized properly in proportion to your space, gondola shelving units can make for a crammed look.

Best for 

Supermarkets/grocery stores, wine and liquor stores, pharmacies, pet stores, auto shops, beauty supply stores, general stores, and convenience stores that need a practical and affordable way to display a large quantity of items.

3. Gridwall Panels

Pros

• Mobility: Gridwall panels are easy to move and reposition, allowing for flexibility in your floor plan. They can be placed in high-traffic areas to attract attention. 
• Versatile: Gridwall panels suit a variety of products, making them an ideal choice for various industries.
• Affordable: These types of panels are generally budget-friendly. 
• Space-Saving: Gridwall panels can get up to 96” H, allowing retailers to save valuable floor space.

Cons

• Limited Capacity: Gridwall panels typically hold fewer products compared to gondola displays or large fixtures. 
• Risk of Damage: If lightweight materials are used, they can be less durable and prone to tipping over. 

Best for 

Sporting goods stores, pet stores, seasonal promotions, clothing boutiques, pharmacies, trade shows, and more

4. Custom Retail Displays

Pros

• Tailored to Your Brand: Custom retail displays can reinforce your store’s branding and create a unique shopping experience. 
• Creative Freedom: They allow you to think outside the box and create impactful product showcases. 
• Customer Engagement: Custom retail displays catch the eye and encourage customers to interact with your products. 

Cons

• Expensive: Custom builds typically come with a higher price tag. 
• Time-Consuming: Designing and building custom retail displays takes more time compared to buying ready-to-use fixtures. 
• Limited Flexibility: Once built, custom retail displays may not be easily adjustable for different products. 

Best for 

Boutiques, flagship stores, or any retail space aiming to create a memorable shopping environment.

Need Help? Our Experts Can Provide Assistance In Choosing The Best Retail Displays For Your Store.

At Store Displays®, we understand your retail displays are more than just fixtures; they are strategic tools that can impact how customers perceive your store and interact with your products. When choosing between commercial glass display cabinets, gondola displays, gridwall panels or custom retail displays, consider your store’s style, product range, and target audience.

If you’re looking to revolutionize the way your products are displayed and improve customer engagement, take the time to assess the pros and cons of each display type before making a decision. The right display isn’t just about functionality; it’s about creating an experience customers will remember. Once you know which displays to use, here are the top 5 ways to market merchandise. Need help setting up the perfect retail display for your business? Contact our experts at Store Displays®, and we’ll guide you through choosing the best options to suit your needs.