Countertop Display Stands Remain an Essential Marketing Tool for Many Businesses

 

Why Use Countertop Display Stands in South Africa?

Countertop or tabletop display stands are an excellent way to display products and attract customers. They can be strategically placed in high-traffic areas of stores, restaurants, and other places such as behind a forecourt shop counter to catch the attention of passers-by. They should be a powerful tool for increasing product visibility and driving sales. Even a reception desk can benefit from counter stands such as business card holders and brochure display stands. 

 

Additionally, countertop display stands are versatile tools and can be used to display a wide range of products, from small trinkets to larger items such as bags or boxes in one place directly in front of the customer.  They can also be used to display new or seasonal products, drawing attention to these items, and generating interest among customers in a concentrated space. In Johannesburg countertop displays are underutilised to to chain store and forecourt monopolies although many of the stands we have made are to be found throughout South Africa. The competition is so stiff in forecourt stores and as a result space is at a premium and compact table stands take much planning. 

 

Countertop display stands significantly impact brand loyalty by enhancing customer engagement and reinforcing brand identity. Here are key points illustrating this relationship:

 

 

Brand Recognition and Identity

 

Visual Appeal: Countertop displays are designed to be eye-catching and reflect the brand's identity through colors, logos, and messaging. This consistency in branding helps customers easily recognize and remember the brand, fostering a sense of familiarity and trust over time. 

 

Emotional Connection: Displays that tell a brand story or highlight product evolution can create deeper emotional connections with consumers. This connection is crucial for building loyalty, as customers are more likely to remain loyal to brands that resonate with them on a personal level.

 

Engagement and Experience

 

Interactive Elements: Engaging displays that allow customers to interact with products create memorable shopping experiences. When customers can touch, feel, or even try out products in-store, it enhances their overall experience and encourages them to return, thereby increasing brand loyalty. 

 

Education: Countertop displays can serve as educational tools, informing customers about product features and benefits. This knowledge empowers consumers to make informed decisions, which can lead to repeat purchases and loyalty.

 

Impulse Purchases and Loyalty

 

Encouraging Impulse Buying: By strategically placing countertop displays in high-traffic areas, retailers can prompt impulse purchases. These spontaneous buying decisions often lead to increased satisfaction with the brand, as customers appreciate discovering new products they might not have considered otherwise.

 

Reinforcement of Positive Experiences: Each successful interaction with a countertop display reinforces positive brand experiences. As customers associate the brand with enjoyable shopping moments, their likelihood of returning increases, solidifying their loyalty over time. 

 

Types of Countertop Display Stands

There are many types of countertop display stands available, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most common types of countertop display stands:

 

1.Acrylic (Perspex) Countertop Display Stands

Acrylic display stands are an affordable and durable option for businesses looking to highlight their products. They are available in a variety of sizes, colours and styles, making them a versatile choice for many assorted products. Moriah Plastics has been making custom acrylic stands for 25 years.

 

2. Rotating Countertop Display Stands

Rotating display stands are a dynamic way to display products. They can be easily rotated, allowing customers to see all sides of the product. They are often used for jewellery, cosmetics, or other small items.

 

3.Wooden Countertop Display Stands

Wooden display stands are a classic and elegant option that can add warmth and sophistication to any display. They are often used for high-end products such as jewellery or artisanal goods. Handy Tip: A cheap unvarnished or uncoated pine box will quickly look tatty. Cheap is not always better. A basic wooden counter stand is a table top. You want customers to browse in a store? Well, why not make it easier for them? Observe browers in the wild. Yes, animals who browse for their food. Some concentrate on browsing on one bush for leaves and others take a bite here and there and browse more quickly. Some browse in dense areas and others in places with more space around them. The same may apply to humans in a store. I recently noticed a great example in my local Woolworths store in Johannesburg. The stores all have the generic fridges and shelving, but a large wooden table with products on it was a special suprise as I approached what had been dead space before the queing passage to the tills. That kind of thing may attract a customer who couldn't see the leaves for the trees walking by uniform shelves. 

 

4. Cardboard countertop display stands

These are made of corrugated cardboard and are used to display items such as cards snacks, and small packaged goods. These are more easily recycled, but in high traffic areas, where durability is important, some other options such as plastics, steel or aluminium is more appropriate. There are specialist cardboard display makers, but at Moriah Plastics we have learned over the years that cheap and flimsy is not always cost-effective when the display is more easily broken or appears worn. Cardboard is great for short-term projects and we have made displays using Xanita board which is a stronger and more easily recyclable carboard. 

 

 

5.Tiered countertop display stands

 These are multi-level stands with distinct levels and are used to display items such as cupcakes, jewellery, and other small items. Stepping products according to size or type all in one area is helpful. 

 

 

Optimizing Your Use of Countertop Display Stands

While countertop display stands can be a powerful marketing tool, their effectiveness depends on how they are used. Here are some tips for optimizing your use of countertop display stands:

 

1. Choose the Right Type of Stand

Choosing the right type of stand for your products can make a significant difference in their effectiveness. For example, wire stands may be a better option for products with bright colours, while wooden stands may be better suited for more elegant products.

 

2. Place Stands in High-Traffic Areas

To maximize the impact of your countertop display stands, place them in high-traffic areas. This may be near the cash register, by the entrance, or in other areas that see a lot of foot traffic.

 

3. Keep Stands Neat and Organized

A cluttered or disorganized display can be unappealing to customers. Keep your countertop display stands neat and organized, with products arranged in an aesthetically pleasing way.

 

"The beauty of countertop displays is that they allow retailers to showcase a small but carefully selected range of products in a highly visible and accessible location. By keeping the display simple and uncluttered, retailers can make a strong visual impact that will catch customers' attention and inspire them to buy." - Joanna Perry-Folino, visual merchandising consultant and author of "The Retail Handbook: Mastering the Art of Retailing" (Reference: "How to Design Countertop Displays That Boost Sales," Vend, October 11, 2018)

 

4. Rotate Products Regularly

To keep your display fresh and interesting, consider rotating products regularly. This can help draw the attention of repeat customers and keep your display looking new and exciting.

 

5. Clean your Stand Regularly

This should be self-explanatory, but because stands like these are high use, it is essential. No one want to touch a grubby stand. 

 

 

"Countertop displays can be a powerful tool for retailers to boost sales and increase brand awareness. By strategically placing items near the point of purchase, retailers can capitalize on the customer's desire for convenience and impulse buying." - Bob Phibbs, retail consultant and author of "The Retail Doctor's Guide to Growing Your Business" (Reference: "5 Ways to Use Countertop Displays to Boost Sales," Shopify, January 10, 2019)