POS Displays That Sell: How to Increase Impulse Buys In-Store

Posted On: April 23, 2025 By: SEOAdmin

 

 

Every square metre of shopfloor space matters, and that is especially true when it comes to your checkout area. Well-positioned POS displays (point-of-sale displays) can transform this space into a powerful tool for driving last-minute purchases and increasing your store’s takings.

 

These compact, high-impact displays are often the final visual cue a customer sees before handing over payment. Used strategically, they can prompt spontaneous add-ons, highlight little treasures they might never have realised they needed and even help reduce excess inventory. At The Retail Factory, we specialise in providing high-quality display solutions that will help you turn the till area into an effective selling zone.

 

In this blog, we’ll explore why POS displays work, what makes them effective and how you can use them to boost impulse buys in your store.

 

 

Why POS Displays Matter

 

Customers don’t always enter a shop with the intention of making impulse purchases, but smart merchandising can change that. A well-placed POS display can:

 

• Encourage impulse buys
• Increase the average basket value
• Highlight special offers or promotions
• Introduce new or complementary products

 

POS displays work best because they catch shoppers in a decision-making mindset; they’re already prepared to buy, and a small, affordable extra feels like a low-risk addition to their basket.

 

 

What Makes a POS Display Effective?

 

Simplicity and Clarity

 

Your POS display should be easy to understand at a glance. Whether you’re promoting a “Buy One Get One Free” deal or showcasing a seasonal product, keep your signage and messaging clear and concise.

 

 

Eye-Level Positioning

 

Displays placed at eye or hand level naturally draw more attention. Use countertop units, freestanding floor displays or shelving extensions near the till to maximise visibility.

 

 

Size and Accessibility

 

Impulse buys are typically small, affordable items – think snacks, accessories or travel-size toiletries. Your display should make it easy for customers to pick up and examine products without disrupting the queue.

 

 

Limited Choices

 

Too many options can lead to decision fatigue. Stick to a few bestsellers or featured items per display, so customers can make quick decisions without second-guessing themselves.

 

 

Bold, On-Brand Design

 

Use eye-catching colours, consistent branding and engaging signage to make your POS display stand out. Branded units help reinforce your identity and create a professional, cohesive look.

 

Smart POS Display Ideas for Retail

 

Here are some practical ways to use POS displays across different retail environments:

 

 

Fashion Retailers

 

• Sunglasses, socks, belts or jewellery displayed near the till
• Special promotions like “Add a scarf for £5” to increase average spend
• Folded t-shirts or accessories on tiered tables near checkouts

 

Convenience Stores

 

• Grab-and-go snacks, drinks and gum
• Seasonal treats (mini Easter eggs, Halloween sweets, etc.)
• Small toiletries or travel essentials

 

Home & Gift Shops

 

• Gift cards, wrapping paper and ribbon rolls
• Candles, keyrings or notebooks as impulse gift additions
• “Perfect with your gift” signs for upselling add-ons

 

Pharmacies or Health Stores

 

• Hand sanitisers, lip balms or vitamins in compact displays
• Trial-size skincare or cosmetics
• Loyalty sign-up offers promoted via small leaflet holders

 

Display Types That Sell

 

At The Retail Factory, we offer a wide range of POS display solutions to suit all retail needs. Some of our most popular products include:

 

Countertop Units

 

Ideal for small, high-margin products, these displays sit neatly on or beside the till area. Perfect for checkout counters with limited space.

 

 

Freestanding Display Units (FSDUs)

 

Portable and easy to reposition, these units are excellent for highlighting new lines, special promotions or themed offers.

 

 

Gridwall or Slatwall Accessories

 

Make use of vertical space behind your checkout with hook-on displays for hanging items like snacks, accessories or seasonal goods.

 

 

Tiered Shelving and Dump Bins

 

Simple but effective, these displays are great for bulk offers, clearance items or low-cost impulse buys. Place them near the queue to encourage pick-ups.

 

 

How to Measure POS Display Success

 

Implementing POS displays is only part of the strategy. You should also track performance to ensure they’re working.

 

• Monitor the sales uplift of items featured in the display
• Test different placements (counter, queue line, etc.) and compare results
• Use customer feedback or observation to gauge ease of access and product visibility

 

Frequent rotation and seasonal updates keep displays fresh and relevant, encouraging customers to check them out each time they visit.

 

Sort Your POS Displays

 

At The Retail Factory, we understand the psychology behind effective retail merchandising. That’s why we offer a wide selection of display solutions that combine functionality, durability, and style – perfect for turning your checkout area into a high-performing sales zone.

 

Looking to upgrade your POS display game? Explore our full range at The Retail Factory and discover how smart displays can transform your in-store sales.