Strut card printing remains one of the most effective point-of-sale tools for capturing attention in crowded UK retail spaces. As shops compete with digital convenience and shorter attention spans, in-store visuals play a critical role in shaping customer behaviour. Strut cards offer an affordable, versatile and high-impact way to present key messages exactly where purchasing decisions happen.
Research into visual merchandising shows that well-designed in-store displays can increase foot traffic by as much as 30% in some environments, while clear promotional cues and product signage have been linked to stronger impulse buying behaviour among shoppers. With the global retail and POS display market continuing to grow year-on-year, businesses that invest in thoughtful strut card design may gain a meaningful advantage in busy retail settings.
This guide explains how to design strut cards that genuinely stand out, supported by proven design principles, shopper behaviour insights and practical application across UK retail settings.
Strut cards are free-standing display boards with a fold-out support, designed to sit on countertops, shelves and customer-facing surfaces. Their simplicity and flexibility make them suitable for a wide range of marketing messages, including:
Strut cards work because they sit directly within the customer’s viewing path, creating immediate impact without requiring complex installation or high budgets.
Customer decision-making in-store is fast and highly visual. Studies consistently show that:
In-store experiments on point-of-purchase displays have demonstrated meaningful increases in sales when promotional messages are placed in strategic sightlines. Strut cards perform exceptionally well here, providing a focused, uncluttered prompt exactly where attention is naturally directed.
A strong strut card communicates one idea effectively. Short headlines, direct supporting text and uncluttered layout ensure the message is absorbed instantly. Every element should serve a clear purpose.
Colour contrast, strong typography and minimal palettes help the card stand out without overwhelming the eye. Two or three brand-consistent colours are usually sufficient. Bold, readable typefaces ensure legibility from a distance.
Strategic use of imagery can increase engagement, but whitespace is just as important. It improves clarity, guides the eye and prevents information overload.
Common retail sizes include A6, A5, A4, A3 and DL. The right choice depends on available counter space, customer proximity and the complexity of the message. Larger cards suit spacious surfaces, while smaller cards work best on crowded tills or shelving.
Gloss finishes enhance colour vibrancy, while matte reduces glare from bright shop lighting. Lamination or protective coatings improve durability in high-traffic settings.
Effective CTAs sit in a dominant position and use actionable language such as:
These help guide customers towards a clear next step.
Learn the best practice for strut card design in the table below:
| Design Element | Best Practice | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Messaging | Short, benefit-focused | Supports quick understanding in busy environments |
| Colour Palette | Use 2–3 high-contrast colours | Improves visibility and brand cohesion |
| Typography | Clean, bold fonts sized for distance reading | Ensures clarity from different viewing angles |
| Visual Hierarchy | Strong headline, supporting image, visible call-to-action | Guides the eye through the message |
| Finish | Match gloss or matte to lighting conditions | Enhances both durability and readability |
| Placement | Tills, counters, sampling zones, queue areas | Maximises shopper engagement and decision influence |
Even the best-designed strut card can underperform if placed poorly. For maximum impact, strut cards should be positioned where customers naturally pause or interact.
High-performing locations include:
These areas encourage dwell time, increasing the likelihood of customers reading and responding to your message.
Certain pitfalls can weaken even the strongest concept. These include:
Eliminating these issues helps your strut cards remain clear, appealing and easy to absorb.
Across different industries, the same foundational design principles apply. For example:
Industry research shows that customers respond more strongly when promotions feel timely, visually balanced and prominently placed.
Strut cards deliver the best results when used as part of a cohesive retail marketing system. Opportunities to link them into wider strategies include:
More UK retailers are choosing eco-friendly display materials that support both brand reputation and environmental responsibility. Options include:
Sustainable POS solutions also appeal to increasingly eco-conscious customers, enhancing trust and brand alignment.
In fast-paced retail settings, grabbing attention quickly is essential. Strut cards offer a cost-effective, high-impact way to communicate offers, enhance branding and influence purchasing decisions at exactly the right moment. By applying clear messaging, strong visuals and strategic placement, retailers can create displays that perform consistently well across a range of environments.
Unit 4-10 Stanton Road Ind. Est.
Stanton Road
Southampton
Hampshire
United Kingdom
SO15 4HU
