As we move into 2025, predictions in retail and product display are undergoing continual transformation. Advances in technology, changes in consumer expectations, and considerations for the environmental are reshaping the way we present products and brands. Retailers are always on the lookout for innovative ways to grab your attention, create memorable and personal experiences, and ultimately drive sales.
Here are some key product and retail display predictions to watch for in 2025
According to Merit Display…
1. Experiential displays
What can a physical display offer that online shopping can’t?
Customers want to connect with products and in 2025 they’re doing their research in order to make more purpose driven and thoughtful purchases. Physical product displays offer something that online can never replicate… the ability to touch, feel, test, try and use a product. It gives the customer confidence that they are making the right choice. Retailers are recognising the impact a physical display has on their overall sales and bricks and mortar ROI. Customers are investing their time and effort to visit stores and showrooms because they seek a superior experience.
Experiential displays have been a popular retail strategy for years, but in 2025, expect to see even more creative and exciting offerings in this genre. These displays serve as brand experiences, where customers can immerse themselves in a unique setting. These displays can feature limited-edition products, exclusive collaborations, leaving customers with an unforgettable feeling and connection to the brand and the product.
2. Sustainable and eco-friendly displays
As sustainability continues to be a major focus for consumers, 2025 will see a more significant shift towards eco-conscious product displays. Customers are smarter than ever before and they understand nuances of sustainability and what it really means. A well planned and executed display made of thoughtfully selected materials that can be used for years is more sustainable than a short term one, no matter how eco-friendly the corrugated cardboard or plastic sheet.
In order to meet customer expectations, retailers will opt for sustainable materials like recycled plastics or biodegradable alternatives, but with the bigger picture in mind. Natural materials will also be a big draw in order to create displays that look good and align with customers values. Retailers will also make use of more modular display designs, allowing for reuse to minimise waste.
3. Clean and minimalist displays
With so much digital traffic competing for our attention, well designed and minimalist displays that showcase a product stand out from the crowd. By investing the time and effort at the design stage, retailers are using product displays that are returning more sales through a ‘back to basics’ approach to their marketing and branding.
As customer attention spans shrink, simplicity in design is key. Clean, minimalist displays will dominate in 2025, creating an environment where products are the focal point. This trend will emphasise high-quality products and design over cluttered, overstimulating environments.
4. Functional digital
We’ve moved past digital for the sake of it. Digital signage will continue to grow in popularity, but with a twist…
Retailers are recognising the use of digital is only relevant if it improves the experience and and connection for the customer. The usefulness of the display itself needs to be worth the time and effort for customers to invest in the exploration of a product on display.
A good example is the use of software to create a 3D visual of a room layout when customers are trying to navigate the use of your products in a set space. If paired with a QR code, the customer can take the experience home with them to finalise the plans or sample they created in store.
Digital displays allow retailers to engage with customers in real time. The combination of smart signage with digital will see an increase in the coming year. Further use of motion sensors in displays will allow digital signs to become more responsive and even showcase products as customers approach.
What do you think about our predictions?
The retail display landscape in 2025 will be characterised by technology, sustainability, and personalisation. Customers expect a more immersive, engaging, and eco-conscious experience that aligns with their values. Retailers and brands who recognise this and embrace these trends will attract attention and create lasting impressions on their target audience. The retail experience is now about discovery and entertainment as much as it is about purchasing.