When most marketers hear “point-of-purchase (POP) signage,” they think retail: displays, endcaps, shelf talkers, and in-store promotions. But the truth is that POP signage is no longer exclusive to traditional retail environments. Any industry with a physical location, banks, restaurants, healthcare systems, universities, entertainment venues, and more, can use POP signage to influence behavior, educate audiences, and elevate on-site experiences.
Here’s how industries outside of retail can unlock the full potential of POP signage.
POP signage excels because it reaches people in moments when they are already engaged, present, and open to information. Whether customers are waiting in line, sitting in a lobby, browsing a menu, or completing a transaction, well placed signage becomes a natural part of their journey.
Benefits include:
• Immediate attention and visibility
• Low cost communication compared to digital ads
• Easy, quick updates to reflect new messaging
• Brand reinforcement during high intent moments
These advantages translate seamlessly across industries.
Banks have high dwell time and high intent customers, perfect for POP signage.
How banks can use POP signage:
Promote financial products such as new credit cards, loan options, or savings accounts
Educate customers on digital banking features, fraud protection, or financial literacy programs
Guide branch navigation with directional and service specific signage to enhance the customer experience
Highlight community involvement, charity drives, local partnerships, or volunteer initiatives
In an environment that can feel intimidating, helpful POP signage can simplify processes and build trust.
For fast casual and quick service restaurants, POP signage is a strategic powerhouse.
How restaurants can use POP signage:
Menu boards and tabletop signage to feature limited time offers or seasonal items
Queue line messaging to promote loyalty programs, mobile ordering, or new products
Drive thru signage that improves navigation and nudges customers toward high margin items
In store branding elements like window clings or counter cards to reinforce the overall dining experience
From awareness to upsell, POP signage influences purchasing decisions during key moments of consideration.
Hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers have unique needs where POP signage can serve both practical and emotional roles.
How healthcare organizations can use POP signage:
Wayfinding signage to help patients navigate complex facilities with less stress
Health education displays covering topics like preventive care, vaccination schedules, and wellness programs
Service promotion for new specialties, telehealth options, or patient portal enrollment
Comfort messaging that reassures patients and sets expectations about wait times or procedures
In healthcare settings, well executed POP signage improves patient satisfaction and reduces confusion.
While banks, restaurants, and healthcare are leaders, many other sectors can use POP signage just as effectively.
Promote campus events and enrollment deadlines
Highlight student resources and campus safety measures
Reinforce school pride and culture
Educate customers on maintenance services
Highlight current promotions
Support the sales process with feature callouts
Provide check in guidance
Promote amenities such as spas, restaurants, or loyalty programs
Offer local recommendations
Support event navigation
Showcase upcoming shows and promotions
Inform visitors about safety rules and guidelines
As customers increasingly expect seamless, information rich experiences, physical environments matter more than ever. POP signage helps communicate clearly and consistently, without relying solely on digital channels or employee interaction.
For industries beyond retail, POP signage is not just a tool, it is a strategic advantage.