Discovering Durable Cardboard Display Stands
The quest for durable cardboard display stands has been ongoing for as long as cardboard itself has been around. The challenge lies in creating something versatile enough to accommodate creative designs while still being strong enough to support heavy products.
Historically, display stands were often crafted from materials like wood, fabric, or plastic. While these materials served their purpose, they also came with notable limitations. Wood, for instance, though durable, can be bulky and requires skilled labor and specific tools to shape. It's also costly, especially when compared to paper-based alternatives. Cheaper woods or fiberboard options often lead to poor finishes and reduced durability, creating a display that looks overly DIY. For designers, relying on wood leaves plenty of room for inconsistencies across different stores, with the risk that your product might not be displayed uniformly.
When it comes to designing retail displays, consistency across multiple locations is essential. You need the confidence that your products will be showcased in the same professional manner, no matter where they are placed.
A Sustainable Shift in Retail Displays
Plastics have been a reliable choice for mass-produced display stands due to their adaptability, ease of assembly, and design flexibility. However, as the environmental impact of single-use plastics becomes more apparent, the retail industry has increasingly looked for more sustainable solutions. With the growing emphasis on reducing plastic waste, many companies are searching for eco-friendly alternatives.
Enter cardboard displays. While cardboard ticks the sustainability box thanks to its recyclability, it has historically struggled in terms of durability. If you've ever bumped into a cardboard display in a store, you've probably noticed how easy it is to dent or damage. Cardboard displays, while great for the environment, often require extra effort to ensure they hold up to the rigors of busy retail spaces.
A Stronger Solution for Cardboard Displays
The solution to creating better cardboard displays doesn't require a complete overhaul of materials. Cardboard itself is an excellent option-it's lightweight, recyclable, and biodegradable. The issue lies in its construction.
Traditional corrugated cardboard, with its wavy flutes, works well for boxes because the strength is focused along the edges. But when used for taller structures like display stands, the material becomes vulnerable and flimsy. Reinforcing it can mean additional materials, more assembly time, and increased costs.
This is where Ultra Board paper honeycomb comes into play. While it's similar to traditional cardboard, the honeycomb structure inside makes it significantly stronger. This construction allows for more robust support, making it perfect for retail environments where durability is crucial. Ultra Board can be cut into nearly any shape and is strong enough to withstand the wear and tear of daily foot traffic – even from the most curious shoppers and their children.
For example, if you were to stand on a piece of standard cardboard, you'd likely leave a mark or damage it. But Ultra Board's 16mm thick 3D structure can hold up to 30 tonnes per square meter. In fact, it's strong enough to support the weight of 374 people (assuming each person weighs around 80kg) before it would even begin to buckle!
For designers, this opens up a world of possibilities. With Ultra Board, you're no longer limited by the structural weaknesses of traditional cardboard. The durability and versatility of the material mean that creativity can take center stage, allowing for more ambitious designs that are both functional and eye-catching.
Curious to Learn More?
If you're interested in how Ultra Board can elevate your retail display designs, get in touch with us. We'd love to hear your ideas and show you how our innovative material can help bring them to life.
