Category: Uncategorized

Why American-Made Packaging Makes Sense in 2026: Tariffs, Lead Times and Cost Certainty

Tariffs, trade cases and rising packaging costs are changing how brands source boxes and displays. See what to compare before choosing domestic or imported packaging.

Updated October 16, 2026

Short answer: American-made packaging can make sense when tariffs, freight delays or quality problems erase the savings that make imported packaging look cheaper. The right comparison is total landed cost (unit price plus duties, freight, lead time and risk), not unit price alone. Domestic production is not automatically cheaper, so it pays to compare quotes side by side.

With businesses facing more uncertainty, many companies are looking closer to home for their packaging. At Packaging Source Inc., we manufacture custom boxes, POP displays and subscription boxes in our own facility, so we see these sourcing decisions up close.

What the tariff data shows

U.S. customs duties have risen sharply. The federal government collected $194.9 billion in customs duties in fiscal year 2025, and fiscal 2026 collections had reached about $163 billion through June. The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget described fiscal 2025 collections as more than 250% of the prior year, while noting that court rulings could change future collections.

U.S. customs duties collected (billions of dollars)
Fiscal 2024 (approximate)
~$77B
Fiscal 2025
$194.9B
Fiscal 2026 (through June only)
~$163B
Sources: USAFacts; CRFB. Fiscal 2024 is approximate (fiscal 2025 total minus CRFB’s reported $118B increase). Fiscal 2026 is a partial year.

Packaging has also been the subject of trade enforcement. In March 2026 the U.S. International Trade Commission found that imports of polypropylene corrugated boxes from China (a plastic product, not paper corrugated) were materially injuring a domestic industry, following Commerce findings of dumping and subsidies. Separately, U.S. pizza box makers and a union filed a trade case on corrugated pizza box imports, claiming imports rose at least 130% between 2023 and 2026. Those are the petitioners’ claims, and duties depend on the outcome. In September 2026, Fastmarkets and Expana also held a webinar on what will drive packaging costs into 2027, covering tariffs, trade and corrugated production costs.

Trade policy keeps changing, so confirm current duty rates for your specific product and origin before you commit to an import order.

Compare total landed cost, not just unit price

An overseas quote can look lower on paper. A fair comparison adds everything that sits between the factory and your dock:

Cost or risk Imported Domestic
Unit price Often lower Often higher
Tariffs and duties Can apply; rates change Not applicable to U.S.-made product
Freight and port fees Ocean freight, port and customs fees Truck freight
Lead time Weeks to months, with port delay risk Shorter; changes and reprints are faster
Inventory carried Larger orders and safety stock Smaller, more frequent runs possible
Quality problems Slow to resolve across time zones Easier to inspect and fix
Currency swings Possible exposure Priced in U.S. dollars

Where domestic manufacturing helps most

  • Speed. Packaging made in our Texas facility does not wait on ocean shipping or customs. If artwork or specs change, a revision does not mean a new overseas production cycle.
  • Quality control. You can review samples, approve proofs and visit our showroom in Frisco instead of relying on photos from overseas.
  • Cost certainty. Domestic pricing removes duty and exchange-rate exposure from the quote, though material and freight costs still move.
  • Short, frequent runs. Smaller runs and quicker reorders help brands avoid tying up cash in large inventories.
  • A direct partner. When a problem comes up, you work with one manufacturer instead of an intermediary and an overseas plant.

When imports may still make sense

Very high volumes of simple products, or items not made domestically, may still favor imports even after duties. Run the numbers for each project. We would rather you choose the right source than the wrong one.

Frequently asked questions

Is American-made packaging more expensive?

The unit price is often higher, but total cost can be competitive once you add tariffs, ocean freight, port fees, long lead times and the cost of quality problems. Compare total landed cost for your own project.

How do tariffs affect packaging costs?

Duties on imported boxes, films or finished packaging add to the landed cost, and rates can change quickly. U.S.-made packaging is not subject to import duties, although raw material costs can still be affected by trade policy.

What types of packaging does Packaging Source Inc. manufacture?

We design and manufacture custom corrugated boxes, folding cartons, POP displays, subscription boxes and specialty packaging in our own facility, and we also offer flexible film and printed labels.

How do I get a quote to compare against an import price?

Call 214-808-7664 or use our contact page, and share your box style, size, quantity and artwork. We can quote the same specification so you can compare total landed cost.

Compare your current packaging quote

Send us the specification you were quoted from an overseas supplier and we will price it. Contact Packaging Source Inc. or call 214-808-7664. You can also browse our corrugated boxes and displays, printed boxes and folding cartons.

Related reading

Sources: USAFacts; Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget; Federal Register summary (PolicyRisk); Fastmarkets.

Packaging Source Inc vs Dallas Box Co vs Custom Boxes Hub: How to Choose a Custom Packaging Supplier in Dallas-Fort Worth

Comparing Dallas-Fort Worth custom packaging suppliers? See how Packaging Source Inc, Dallas Box Co and Custom Boxes Hub compare on response time, quality, speed and pricing.

Updated October 17, 2026

Short answer: When you are looking for packaging solutions in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, you will probably come across three names: Custom Boxes Hub, Dallas Box Co and us, Packaging Source Inc. Choosing the right packaging partner is a big decision. Below is how we compare on response time, quality, speed, pricing and customer feedback, plus eight questions to ask any supplier before you commit.

Side-by-side comparison

  Packaging Source Inc Custom Boxes Hub Dallas Box Co
Location Frisco, TX (showroom) Dallas, TX Dallas, TX
Experience 26+ years 15+ years Not stated
Model Manufacturer and distributor with access to a network of suppliers and manufacturers Pushes its standard products Limited to what its own facility can produce
Quote response time 2.4 hours on average 48 to 72 hours Business hours only
Order fulfillment accuracy 99.2% About 94% About 91%
On-time delivery 96.8% Not stated Not stated
Standard turnaround 7 to 10 business days (rush: 3 to 5) 14 to 21 days 10 to 14 days
Customer rating 4.8 out of 5 (nearly 250 reviews) 3.9 4.1
Pricing Design consultation, samples and quality assurance included in project pricing Lower advertised base prices; add-on charges for graphics, rush orders and design Not stated

Packaging Source Inc. figures are the company’s own. Competitor figures are the company’s own assessment, so confirm specifics with each supplier before you decide.

The real difference: we are more than a box company

We are a manufacturer and a distributor. Dallas Box Co is limited to whatever it can produce in its own facility, and Custom Boxes Hub pushes its standard products. We have access to a network of suppliers and manufacturers, which means better materials, more options and often better pricing, because we can source from whoever offers the best value for your project. Our award-winning retail packaging work came from having the flexibility to source the right materials and partner with the right producers.

Customer service that actually serves customers

We average 2.4 hours for quote responses and project inquiries: hours, not days. Custom Boxes Hub runs 48 to 72 hours for a response, and Dallas Box Co operates on a business-hours-only model. When your project is on the line, waiting days for a simple quote is not acceptable. Our customer portal lets you track orders in real time, review account history and reorder previous projects in a few clicks.

Quality that wins awards

We are proud of our 2024 Packaging Excellence Award for innovative retail display solutions. Awards come from investing in the right people, processes and partnerships. Our design team does not just create packaging, it creates packaging that sells products. We report 99.2% order fulfillment accuracy and a 96.8% on-time delivery rate, compared with roughly 94% for Custom Boxes Hub and 91% for Dallas Box Co. See our retail packaging work and what customers say.

Speed without sacrificing quality

Standard turnaround on most of our projects is 7 to 10 business days. Our rush service can finish complex custom projects in 3 to 5 business days. Dallas Box Co typically needs 10 to 14 days for standard orders, and Custom Boxes Hub is looking at 14 to 21 days. When you are launching a product or facing unexpected demand, those extra days matter.

Pricing that makes sense

As a distributor as well as a manufacturer, we are not tied to the overhead of a single production facility, so we can source from multiple suppliers and find the most cost-effective option for each project. Custom Boxes Hub may advertise lower base prices, but watch for add-on charges for custom graphics, rush orders and design consultation. We include design consultation, samples and quality assurance in our project pricing, so you know what you are paying up front. Contact us for a quote.

Local expertise with national resources

We are based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, so we understand the local market and logistics. Unlike Dallas Box Co, which is limited by local production capacity, we also have access to national and international supply networks. We serve everyone from healthcare companies needing FDA-compliant materials to technology companies launching new products, and we work with businesses in Fort Worth, Plano, Arlington and Denton. See all locations we serve.

What our customers say

We maintain a 4.8 out of 5.0 customer rating based on nearly 250 reviews. Custom Boxes Hub sits at 3.9 and Dallas Box Co is at 4.1. Customers consistently mention our proactive communication, problem-solving approach and ability to deliver what was promised, when it was promised.

Sustainability and industries

Our supplier network includes partners specializing in eco-friendly packaging materials, recycled content options and biodegradable alternatives. Dallas Box Co is limited to traditional materials and Custom Boxes Hub offers basic sustainability options, while we can source newer sustainable materials without compromising quality or presentation. We particularly excel in retail and consumer products (shelf appeal and unboxing experience), food and beverage (food-grade packaging requirements), healthcare and pharmaceuticals (regulated medical device and pharmaceutical packaging) and technology (protective packaging for electronics and premium presentation boxes). Our protective packaging, POP displays and subscription boxes pages show examples.

Making your decision

We have grown 23% year-over-year in the DFW metro by consistently exceeding expectations. Whether you need a simple custom box or a complete packaging program for a major launch, our consultation starts with understanding your needs, not pushing whatever we happen to have in stock. When Dallas-Fort Worth businesses need packaging solutions that work, they choose Packaging Source Inc.

8 questions to ask any packaging supplier

  1. Where will my order be made and printed?
  2. Who handles design and dielines? Are proofs and samples included?
  3. What is the minimum order quantity?
  4. What is the timeline, in writing? From proof approval to delivery.
  5. What is included in the price? Dies, plates, artwork setup, samples and freight.
  6. How are quality problems handled?
  7. Can I see samples or visit?
  8. Have you made packaging like mine?

Frequently asked questions

Who makes custom boxes in Dallas-Fort Worth?

Several companies make custom boxes in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, including Packaging Source Inc. in Frisco, Custom Boxes Hub and Dallas Box Co in Dallas. They differ in response time, turnaround, pricing and materials, so compare them against your specific project.

How fast can Packaging Source Inc. deliver?

Standard turnaround on most projects is 7 to 10 business days, and rush service can complete complex custom projects in 3 to 5 business days.

What affects the price of custom packaging?

Price depends on box style, size, board grade, print method and colors, finishing, quantity, tooling such as dies and plates, and delivery. Ask each supplier to quote the same specification.

Ready to see the difference?

Contact our team or call 214-808-7664 for a no-obligation consultation and quote. We will show you how we can improve your packaging while often reducing your costs.

Related reading

6 Litho Label and Printed Packaging Options in Dallas-Fort Worth (2026 Guide)

What litho label packaging is, which print method fits your project, and six Dallas-Fort Worth printing and packaging options compared using public information.

Updated October 16, 2026

Disclosure: This guide is published by Packaging Source Inc., so we list ourselves first. Information about other companies comes from public sources as of October 2026. Please confirm capabilities directly before you order.

Short answer: In corrugated packaging, a litho label is a sheet printed by offset lithography and laminated to corrugated board, which produces photo-quality graphics on boxes, displays and shippers. Packaging Source Inc. in Frisco, Texas manufactures litho-label corrugated packaging. Other Dallas-Fort Worth printers focus on commercial printing, pressure-sensitive labels or packaging distribution, so the right choice depends on what you need to make.

What is litho label packaging?

Litho label packaging combines two things: high-quality offset printing on a paper sheet, and the strength of corrugated board underneath. It is common in retail packaging because it gives brands vibrant, consistent color on structures that still ship and stack well. Our litho label packaging page shows examples, including pizza-style boxes, corrugated sleeves, point-of-sale displays, RSC boxes, die-cut shippers and wine or liquor carriers with handles.

Which print method fits your project?

If you need Consider
Photo-quality graphics on retail boxes, displays or shippers Litho-label (litho-laminated) corrugated
Simple one- or two-color shipping boxes Direct-printed custom shipping boxes
Labels for bottles, jars or tubs Pressure-sensitive printed labels
Premium retail cartons Offset-printed folding cartons
Pouches, film or sleeves Flexible packaging and film

6 Dallas-Fort Worth options compared

Company Based in Known for (public sources) Consider if you need
1. Packaging Source Inc. Frisco, TX Manufacturer of litho-label corrugated packaging and displays, custom and printed boxes, folding cartons and subscription boxes High-graphic corrugated packaging or displays with design help and a local showroom
2. Disc Pro Graphics Houston, TX Commercial printer since 1999 offering digital and offset printing; listings mention embossing, debossing and foil Offset print runs; ask whether they laminate to corrugated
3. The Odee Company Dallas, TX Founded in 1923; digital, offset and wide-format printing, promotional products, mailing and fulfillment, per its directory listing Printed materials combined with promotional items and fulfillment
4. Smurfit Westrock Packaging Solutions (formerly Victory Packaging) Houston, TX Distribution arm of Smurfit Westrock with 65+ warehouses and distribution facilities in the U.S., Canada and Mexico; renamed in January 2025 Packaging supplies and supply-chain services across multiple sites
5. TQL Packaging Solutions Dallas, TX Founded in 1995 and part of Resource Label Group since July 2023; digital and flexographic printing of pressure-sensitive labels, shrink sleeves, flexible packaging and RFID/NFC Roll labels and flexible packaging rather than litho-laminated corrugated
6. Taylor (Dallas facility) Dallas, TX Pressure-sensitive, prime and durable labels, plus cartons, sleeves and inserts, per its location page Labels and cartons from a large national printer

Not every company above makes litho-laminated corrugated, and that is the point: “litho label” suppliers, commercial printers, label converters and packaging distributors solve different problems. Match the supplier to the product, not the keyword.

How to choose a litho label supplier

  1. Confirm the process. Ask who prints the sheet, who laminates it and where the corrugated is converted.
  2. Request a printed sample. Check color accuracy, lamination quality and board strength.
  3. Ask about color consistency across reorders. Brand colors should match from run to run.
  4. Get lead times in writing. Include proof approval, production and delivery.
  5. Check minimums and tooling costs. Dies and plates can change the economics of a small run.
  6. Look at the full structure. Make sure the box, display or sleeve works for shipping and stacking, not just for looks.

What to prepare before you request a litho label quote

  • Dimensions or an existing dieline
  • Quantity and any reorder plan
  • High-resolution artwork and brand color references
  • Corrugated style (RSC, die-cut, sleeve, display)
  • Target delivery date

Frequently asked questions

What is a litho label?

A litho label is a printed sheet, made using offset lithography, that is laminated to corrugated board. It delivers high-quality graphics on boxes, displays and shippers.

What is the difference between litho label and direct-printed corrugated?

Direct printing applies ink straight to the corrugated surface and works well for simple graphics. Litho-label packaging prints on a separate sheet first, which allows finer detail and richer color before lamination.

When is litho label packaging worth it?

It is worth considering when shelf appeal matters, such as retail displays, gift boxes and premium shippers, and when you need consistent, photo-quality color.

Where can I get litho label packaging in Dallas-Fort Worth?

Packaging Source Inc. in Frisco, Texas manufactures litho-label corrugated packaging. Call 214-808-7664 or visit our contact page to request a quote.

Request a litho label quote

Share your project with our team at Packaging Source Inc. or call 214-808-7664. You can also browse our POP displays, corrugated boxes and displays and printed boxes.

Related reading

Sources: Visit Dallas (Odee); GoodFirms (Disc Pro); PaperAge (Victory Packaging rebrand); Business Wire (TQL acquisition); Taylor Corporation.

Related pages: custom die cut boxes, die cut printed boxes and die cut bin boxes.

See our litho label packaging details and compare options on our box styles page.

Why Choose Flexible Packaging? Benefits, Limits and When It Beats Rigid (2026 Guide)

Flexible packaging is the second-largest U.S. packaging segment. See the benefits, limits, print options and how to choose between flexible and rigid packaging.

Updated October 16, 2026

Short answer: Flexible packaging (pouches, bags, films, wraps and sleeves) usually uses less material and weighs less than rigid packaging, which can lower shipping costs and help extend shelf life. It is the second-largest segment of the U.S. packaging market, behind corrugated. Choose rigid packaging instead when your product needs crush protection, stacking strength or a premium shelf presence.

Choosing packaging can feel overwhelming, especially for consumer packaged goods brands, manufacturers and contract packagers. This guide explains what flexible packaging is, where the market stands, the real advantages and limits, and how to decide between flexible and rigid formats.

In this guide

What is flexible packaging?

Flexible packaging is any package whose shape can change when it is filled or handled. Common formats include stand-up pouches, bags, roll-fed film, shrink sleeves, wraps and flexible labels. Many are made from laminated layers of plastic film, paper or metallized film, so a single package can combine a printable outer layer, a barrier layer and a sealable inner layer. Our flexible packaging and flexible film page shows the formats we work with.

How big is the flexible packaging market?

According to the Flexible Packaging Association’s 2025 industry report, U.S. flexible packaging sales reached $42.6 billion in 2024, up 2.9% from $41.4 billion in 2023. FPA members projected 4.8% growth in 2025, to about $44.6 billion. Food is the largest end market at roughly $19 billion, or about 45% of the total.

U.S. flexible packaging industry sales (billions of dollars)
2023
$41.4B
2024
$42.6B
2025 (projected by FPA members)
$44.6B
Source: Flexible Packaging Association, 2025 State of the U.S. Flexible Packaging Industry Report.

Benefits of flexible packaging

  • Lower material use. A pouch typically uses far less material than a rigid jar or box holding the same amount of product.
  • Lighter shipments. Lower package weight and compact storage before filling can reduce freight and warehousing costs.
  • Barrier protection. Laminated films can block oxygen, moisture and light, which helps extend shelf life for food and other sensitive products.
  • Convenience. Resealable zippers, tear notches, spouts and hang holes are easy to add.
  • Print impact. Large printable surfaces allow full-color branding and shelf visibility.

Limits to plan for

  • Less crush protection. Fragile products often still need a corrugated shipper or protective packaging.
  • Recycling challenges. Multilayer films can be difficult to recycle through curbside programs.
  • Equipment needs. Filling and sealing usually requires pouch-filling or form-fill-seal equipment.
  • Shelf presence. Soft packages can slump or be harder to stack, so many brands pair them with a display or carton.

Flexible vs rigid packaging

Factor Flexible Rigid
Material use Generally lower Generally higher
Weight Lightweight Heavier
Crush protection Limited Strong
Stacking and storage Harder to stack when filled Easier to stack
Customization cost Often lower per unit at volume Often higher for custom tooling
Examples Pouches, bags, sleeves, film Cans, glass, rigid boxes, cartons

For rigid options, see our rigid boxes, folding cartons and custom boxes.

How to choose the right packaging type

  1. Product type. Is it dry, liquid, fragile, perishable or regulated?
  2. Size, weight and shape. Note any special handling needs.
  3. Budget. Compare cost per finished unit, including freight and storage.
  4. Shelf and display plan. Decide whether the package must stand, hang or sit in a display.
  5. Shipping path. Think about how many hands touch the product before the customer.
  6. Regulations and labeling. Confirm any food, safety or recycling label requirements.
  7. Talk to a specialist. A packaging specialist can compare options against your product and budget.

Printing methods for flexible packaging

Many flexible packages use reverse printing, where the artwork is printed on the inside of a clear film and then laminated, so the ink is sealed between layers. Flexography dominates the industry: FPA’s report shows flexo at 76% of shipments, with unprinted film at 12%, gravure at 11% and digital at 1%.

Print technology share of flexible packaging shipments
Flexography
76%
Unprinted
12%
Gravure
11%
Digital
1%
Source: Flexible Packaging Association, 2025 State of the U.S. Flexible Packaging Industry Report.

Sustainability and regulation

Flexible packaging often uses less material than rigid alternatives, but recyclability is the open question. Regulators are paying attention: industry reporting counted 41 packaging extended producer responsibility (EPR) bills across 16 states in 2025, and some brands are reviewing recyclability labels on polyethylene packaging. If you sell in multiple states, check current rules before you finalize a structure. Monomaterial films, paper-based options and bio-based resins are all worth discussing with your supplier.

Frequently asked questions

What are examples of flexible packaging?

Examples include stand-up pouches, bags, roll-fed film, shrink sleeves, wraps and flexible labels. Items such as tape, foam and bubble wrap are usually classed as protective packaging rather than flexible packaging.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of flexible packaging?

Advantages include lower material use, light weight, strong barrier options and print impact. Disadvantages include limited crush protection, harder stacking and recycling challenges for multilayer films.

Is flexible packaging sustainable?

It often uses less material than rigid packaging, which is a sustainability advantage. Many multilayer structures are still hard to recycle, so sustainability depends on the specific structure and local recycling options.

What is flexible packaging made from?

Common materials include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyester (PET), nylon, paper, metallized film and bio-based films such as PLA, often combined in laminated layers.

How big is the flexible packaging market?

The Flexible Packaging Association reported U.S. sales of $42.6 billion in 2024, about 20% of the U.S. packaging market and the second-largest segment behind corrugated.

Talk to a packaging specialist

Not sure whether flexible or rigid packaging fits your product? Packaging Source Inc. offers flexible film and packaging, printed labels and retail packaging. Contact us or call 214-808-7664.

Related reading

Sources: Labels & Labeling on the FPA 2025 report; Flexible Packaging Association; Converting Quarterly.

Product details: flexible film packaging with designed film laminations.

Why Texas Businesses Need POP Displays

Why Texas Businesses Need Point-of-Purchase (POP) Displays

 

Many small businesses and marketing professionals are constantly thinking of strategic ways to attract their target customer and stand out among competing products. Each day it seems as if a new product is hitting the shelfs, making the pool of competition bigger. Constantly those dealing with this problem ask, “how can I create a memorable interaction between my product and my customer?”

An enticing way to make your product stand out and create an interactive experience with potential customer is a Point-of-Purchase (POP) Display. These designer retail solutions can help you stand out among your competition, but also allow your customer to engage with your product.

This article will go over the POP display by looking at what it is, the effectiveness, different types of packaging products, how to order POP displays, and finally some frequently asked questions.

 

Table of Contents:

∙      What Is A Point-of-Purchase (POP) Display?

∙      Point-of-Purchase Displays Effectiveness

∙      Different Types of Packaging Products

∙      How to order POP Displays

∙      Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

 

What Is A Point-of-Purchase (POP) Display?

Also known as point-of-sale displays or retail display, this marketing tactic places printed displays near relevant items and where customers make purchasing decisions. They stand out to draw in the attention of the customer, promoting the good and generating sales.

 These displays often appear at the front of the store or in the middle of the aisle, however they can also be near checkout for impulse buy items. Clothing brands also use them throughout stores to promote specific items.

The primary goal is the create a memorable interaction, rather than having the product down in the sea of other items being sold, they can appear in a physical display that puts them a step ahead of competitors.

 

Point-of-Purchase Displays Effectiveness

 

Now, you may be thinking, “how can I trust that these big displays will attract more customers and generate revenue?” Well look at the numbers:

By having these two important factors of in-store purchases and attracting attention, we can convince our consumer to buy our product. The large displays gain exposure and facilitate purchases because most purchase decisions happen in store. Our consumer sees the product and display and the seed of consumer interest is planted.

 

Different Types of Packaging Products

Point-of-Purchase displays cause a big splash in a world where standing out is important. Small businesses are in a game of survival of the fittest, by using these marketing tactics you are staying a step ahead of competitors. To attract the customer, brands have to “pop out” and POP displays do just that.

Now, POP displays are a highly effective choice to help bring emphasis to particular products, however there are also other printed retail products that can help facilitate consumer purchase. Some of these useful and effective tactics include:

∙      Protective Packaging

∙      Retail Packaging

∙      Packaging Labels

∙      Custom box Designs

∙      Printed Boxes

∙      Presentation Boxes

∙      Mailer Boxes

∙      Folding Cartons

 

How to order POP Displays

Ready to draw in your customer in an effective and exiting way? The process is simple. To order your brands Point-of-Purchase display, contact us at info@packagingsourceinc.com or call us at (214)-808-7664. Businesses in the Dallas area can also visit us in store at 2601 Network Boulevard, Suite 440, Frisco, TX 75034.

After that just tell us what you’re looking for and we can help design and develop a custom display that will attract your customer and help you compete against competitors.

 

Conclusion

Point-of-Purchase displays are an exciting way to attract your target audience. The standout and have proven effective in the eyes of consumers. By utilizing this marketing tactic, your product is not drowning the sea of goods that fill stores.

By contact Packaging Source Inc., we can help you design the perfect display for your product.

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Point-of-Purchase Displays

 

What does point of purchase mean?

Point-of-purchase is referring to putting marketing in the place where customers are doing their physical retail shopping. The goal is to offer something unexpected to capture a customer’s attention to drive sales of a particular product.

Why is point-of-purchase important?

POP displays are important because in order to generate sales, many products rely on attracting their customer. By having an effective point-of-purchase display for your product, your products can stand out from the standard shelf displays.

 

What does POS mean in marketing?

POS means point-of-sale. This is when customers purchase the product, typically at a cash register, however it can also refer to any display that happens in the physical store space.

What are the 4 basic types of displays?

The four basic types of displays are the ones that feature one item, similar products, related products, or a cross mix of items.

 

Should I purchase online or find a packaging printer near me?

Whatever works best for you! You can contact us via email or phone. We also have a store located in DFW, North Texas, for in-person consultation. In person or online, we can provide the best service possible. Our goal is to make the customer happy, and we work hard to follow through with your design ideas.

 

 

Get More Sales With Printed Presentation Boxes

Get More Sales Through Printed Presentation

Estimated Read Time: 5 minutes
Article Summary: Custom printed packaging helps local businesses boost sales by drawing customers’ attention through eye-catching, branded presentation. In a post-COVID world where online sales have surged, many small vendors need ways to reconnect with physical shoppers. Printed boxes and point-of-purchase displays (like countertop and floor displays) offer a visual way to communicate brand identity and product appeal. These packages support every stage of the customer journey—from creating awareness to encouraging trial and adoption. They’re also versatile, used for retail, mailers, and subscription boxes. By working with local print shops, businesses can create custom packaging that’s both impactful and cost-effective.

Local businesses and small merchants within Texas often have questions about how to draw the attention of potential customers in order to sell their wares. With sales shifting heavily to the digital marketplace during the COVID-19 pandemic, many vendors have lost touch with creating customer conversion through physical sales. 

 

An answer to their issue is through visual engagement. Much like retail, the key to engaging with consumers is a consistent message and representation of your products throughout the purchasing process. How your products look, what your products do, and how your customers relate to the product are all factors in the sales conversion process. 

 

If you have ever bought items in a retail setting, you’ve seen products presented in different forms. The package that the product comes in, a display holding countertop products, and even buildable die-cut floor displays. Drawing the eye of a potential customer in the real world means winning a competition of multiple factors and products that can impede successful sales. 

 

Table of Contents:

 

  • What are Custom Printed Boxes?
  • Effectiveness of Custom Packaging
  • Different Types of Printing Boxes
  • How to Order Printed Boxes
  • Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

What are Custom Printed Boxes?

 

Custom printed boxes are self-contained units that function as both packaging for the particular product, as well as a visual representation of the brand and its identity. Imagine the counter of a convenience store; everything from candies and snacks to cigarette lighters and other smoking adjacent items have their own spaces marked by the branded packaging that holds that product. 

 

Custom printed boxes are designed to attract the eye of the consumer through a multitude of different parameters. These include target demographics, location, and size of the product and packaging, as well as a likeness to adjacent products. 

 

Attracting the eye of a potential customer while representing brand presence through custom box design is also useful for showcasing local business affiliations. For instance, local businesses in the Dallas – Fort Worth area can emblazon custom boxes with logos and addresses in the form of printed boxes for wholesale shipping and custom mailers.

 

As an example, look to businesses like Amazon and Hello Fresh. Their product boxes serve as a display of their brand identity through logo and association while showcasing websites, locations, and social media presence. The branding is consistent throughout and the packaging is optimized for instant identification. 

 

Effectiveness of Custom Packaging

 

There are 5 stages in the customer adoption process: awareness, interest, evaluation, trial, and adoption. Custom retail packaging and POP displays can help to cover the awareness and interest steps, while the product itself is presented immediately to be evaluated, trialed, and decided upon. 

 

Drawing attention to your products

 

  • Customers are more likely to purchase items that engage with them visually.
  • Effective placement of Point of Purchase displays draw in up to 13% of in-store eye fixations.
  • Instant call to action with option of in-person experience and purchase.

 

Different Types of Printed Packaging

 

Printed boxes and packaging are a mainstay option for small business shipping, but they aren’t the only way that custom box design can be utilized. Presentation boxes and point-of-purchase displays are easy and cost effective methods to accentuate products in the retail market. Shipping needs can be achieved through retail packaging, custom mailer boxes for subscription services, and more:

 

 

How to order Printed Boxes

 

Ordering printed boxes for local businesses based in Dallas and Fort Worth is easy. There are many custom printed box merchants based in the DFW area who can meet your needs for retail packaging and displays. 

 

  1. Design your logo and brand assets along a consistent presentation and message
  2. Determine what size box, materials, and what quantities will fill your needs
  3. Apply graphics to fit to the packaging dimensions
  4. Order a sample to ensure that you are going to be happy with the final product before mass production
  5. Place your order

 

Final Recap

 

By utilizing custom printed packaging local businesses are granted unique benefits. Customer conversions that are heavily favored by retailers have become available to companies who ship products. 

 

The power of custom printed box design and point-of-purchase displays can help to tap greater potential in customer engagement and brand recognition. Utilizing these methods, businesses can incorporate their existing products and promotions to reach new levels of conversion.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

How to design a box? Continue reading “Get More Sales With Printed Presentation Boxes”

How To Redesign Your Product Packaging

Your average supermarket carries anywhere between 15,000 and 60,000 individual products and the most people will wander through these fluorescent lit halls of consumerism is once a week and come away with at maximum 30 or 40 items.

The ecommerce environment is just as crowded, with the global B2C market topping $1 trillion for the first time in 2012. Simply typing the word ‘books’ into Amazon will yield you over 44 million search results.

While the internet has provided a potential customer base of millions for even the smallest of local businesses, the flip-side is that these businesses are elevated into a global marketplace. You may have been the only supplier of real ales in your local area, but as soon as your ecommerce site goes live you become one of the thousands and thousands of real ale companies operating around the world.

This kind of competitive environment necessitates the need for smart packaging design that both stands out from the crowd and communicates a deeper message of value about the product to potential consumers.

One of the biggest problems for established brands is the precarious balancing act of maintaining your coherence and focus as a brand while still allowing room for growth, change and modification. No brand is ever perfect and there is always likely to be people that you could appeal to more or an aspect of your message that needs to be amplified.

A risky area for any business is when the realization dawns that their current packaging is not doing as well as it should and that there is a need for a substantial redesign. If you do it well your brand will seem to have been rejuvenated with a new energy and emphasis, but get it wrong and the consequences can be extreme.

So before we get down to the nitty-gritty of how to do a successful packaging redesign, we should start off with a cautionary tale of just how extreme the effects of a poorly received redesign can be.

The Terrible Tale of the Tropicana Redesign

In 2009 Tropicana embarked on what quickly went down in recent history as a spectacularly ill-conceived product redesign, which resulted in its sales dropping by 20% and the company losing millions of dollars.

It may be surprising to some that consumers would react that negatively to a change of packaging,bombarding the company with negativity by email and social media, but that is just to underestimate the attachment people form with their favourite brands.

So just what went wrong? As it turns out, just about everything about this redesign was ill-conceived. The brand name text on the front was upside down and far less immediately noticeable, meaning that consumers had to invest a lot more time and concentration and were unlikely to have that immediate connection. The tone of voice was weird and the typography gave of the air of trying to be hip but coming off cold and corporate. The old image of a ripe, juicy orange was replaced with a stock photo of a glass of indiscriminate orange juice and the old slogan of “why does Tropicana taste so good?” is replaced with the strange sounding “drink in the spirit of the morning.”

The tide of negative reaction caused Tropicana and its parent company PepsiCo to stop the shelf the whole redesign, issue an embarrassing retraction and slink off into the corner to lick its wounds.

Pulling Off a Successful Packaging Redesign

So now we know how not to do a successful package redesign, we can turn our attention to how to successfully reinvigorate your brand while retaining a deep rooted sense of identity. Some examples of the kind of measurable success that a well thought out and implemented redesign can bring to your company are:

The first thing you are going to have to do is to let go of any unhealthy sentimentality you might have about the past and accept the bold possibilities of the future.

The second thing of upmost importance to keep in the forefront of your mind is that you have a core group of loyal customers that you absolutely must not lose. This is the biggest problem that Tropicana ran into, because not only did they not gain many new customers but they actually began to lose customers. The ultimate package redesign will not only entice new customers but will excite these loyal customers as well.

With these two factors in mind, the next thing you are going to have to turn your mind to.

Why Do You Need to Redesign Your Packaging?

Different companies and different brands are going to have different reasons for initiating a packaging redesign. It is important to establish at the start what is driving your need for a redesign, which may be one of the following:

  • Your product has changed in a way that necessitates new packaging
  • You need visual unification between different, previously distinct products
  • Your recent business performance has changed
  • New government regulations or requirements
  • Your expanding into new markets
  • Customer insights and surveys shows that your message or appearance is dated or out of touch with your core customer base or target group

Determining early on why you need to do the redesign in the first place will save a lot of Tropicana-like pain further on down the line.

Evolution or Revolution?

Once you have the reason why you are going to have to redesign your packaging, the next thing you are going to have to figure just how drastic a change you are aiming for. It comes down to the difference between instigating revolution or taking a few steps forward in evolution.

A revolutionary change means that your packaging will be a radically different beast to what it was like before, which opens you to the risk of detaching the emotional connection your core customer base has with your product (and maybe they won’t be able to recognise them on shelves).

Evolutionary change on the other hand, implies that you are simply shedding the parts of your current design that aren’t working and emphasising the parts that are working. Most of the time, you are going to want to be aiming for is evolutionary change because you want to improve the delivery of your brand message rather than simply starting again from scratch.

Undoubtedly, some situations and business climates are going to call for a revolutionary change of focus and root and branch change, but most of the time it is not going to be the whole of the your design that is the problem.

Important Things to Remember

While the actual mechanics of each individual package redesign process will depend on a number of factors that are specific to your product range, your previous design, your core and target demographics and the message you want to emphasize, there are a number of important things that you would do well to remember.

The biggest potential stumbling blocks you could face in this process are:

  • A lack of certainty which leads you to make changes that are too small and inconsequential to matter to consumers or warrant the time and effort put in
  • Making changes that are too big and result in a damaging disconnect between your product and consumers
  • Succumbing too much to “design by committee” or making decisions based on fear or the privileging of personal opinion over verifiable information and objective goals
  • Not understanding how consumers interact with your brand before you start and making decisions which have a negative effect on this
  • Instituting changes because everyone else in your industry is and simply playing follow the leader rather than taking the process seriously

The opportunities for those that get their redesign right are the prizes that come from the successful evolution of their brand, with new possibilities blooming forth, new customers discovering the benefits and a whole gaggle of new avenues for the company to travel down.

Do you have any other golden rules for achieving the tricky feat of a successful package redesign? Can you think of any big successes or failures that would serve as useful examples?

Grocery Displays Targeting Male Shoppers

Research has recently shown that more men are doing the grocery shopping, according to The Wall Street Journal. In an attempt to boost sales, food companies such as General Mills and Kraft are reevaluating their packaging. Yogurts, coffees, packaged foods and other products will feature darker colors and catchy words that aim to target male shoppers. This shift in visual packaging may call for a reconfiguration of food merchandising for grocers who are also willing to delve into this experiment.

Darken the look
The first cue to take from food companies is to adopt darker colors. Look into fixtures that have a more “manly” feel and figure out a good place for them. The Mobile 5-Tier Z-Fixture Merchandiser is a great item that’s smaller and easy to move. Consider highlighting the arrival of the new packaging by filling the vessel with them. Additionally, take a look at some Expressly HUBERT® Synthetic Chalkboard Sign Panels, which will help set the darker, more masculine atmosphere.

Spread the items
It may be tempting to bring as much attention to the new products as possible by placing them all together. However, this may likely lead consumers to explore the section and not take the time to walk through the rest of the store. By having a small fixture that highlights the new items, customers are aware of the change and are encouraged to search for them. The downside to the highlight fixture may be how accessible it is. Be prepared to stock the display regularly as customers come through.

Revisit your merchandising
The Wall Street Journal also stated that it won’t just be the look of the packaging that changes, it will also be the size. This results in a reevaluation of merchandising, especially feature displays where size and color have already been configured. If you can determine when the shipment is set to arrive, you may want to set aside a few hours on the day the shipment comes in and incorporate the new items into your feature. Bring as much attention to these products as possible so that consumers are well aware of their presence and will gain interest in them.

This change in packaging is sure to garner plenty of attention from consumers. It also provides more product for grocers and their staff to work with. The introduction of these items can be a fun change for retailers and shoppers alike.

How to Design a POP Display That Sells: 7 Practical Tips (2026 Guide)

Seven practical tips for designing a point-of-purchase (POP) display that sells, covering placement, materials, retailer specs and how to test results.

Updated October 16, 2026

Short answer: A point-of-purchase (POP) display sells when it sits where shoppers make decisions, delivers one clear message at a glance, and is built to meet the retailer’s space and assembly rules. Industry research from POPAI found that most purchase decisions are made inside the store, which is exactly where a display does its work.

Getting product onto a shelf is only half the battle. Once it is there, your package sits beside dozens of look-alike competitors. A well-designed POP display gives your brand its own space, its own message and a reason for the shopper to stop. This guide covers what the research says and seven practical steps for building a display that earns its floor space.

Why POP displays still matter: what the research shows

The most widely cited shopper research comes from POPAI (the Point of Purchase Advertising International association). Its studies found that shoppers make most buying decisions after they walk into the store:

Share of purchase decisions made in the store
Grocery shoppers (2012)
76%
Mass-merchant shoppers (2014)
82%
Source: POPAI Shopper Engagement Study (2012); POPAI Mass Merchant Study (2014).
How mass-merchant purchases are planned
62%
18%
17%
Unplanned (62%)
Specifically planned (18%)
Generally planned (17%)
Substituted (3%)
Source: POPAI 2014 Mass Merchant Study, as reported by Image Reports.

Two honest caveats. First, these are the best-known public figures, but they date from 2012 to 2014, so treat them as directional and run your own test (see tip 7). Second, displays do not work automatically. A 2010 in-store experiment on dishwashing liquid found no change in relative sales when a lower-priced competing product sat nearby. A display has to give the shopper a reason to choose you, not just information.

7 practical tips for designing a POP display that sells

1. Start with one goal and one message

Decide what the display must do: launch a new item, drive trial, trigger an impulse buy, cross-sell, or support a seasonal promotion. Then write the single message that supports it. Displays that try to say five things usually say none of them.

2. Match the format to where it will sit

Format follows placement. Floor displays and pallet displays create a stand-alone destination in an aisle or at an end cap. Counter-top displays capture impulse purchases near the register. Corrugated point-of-sale displays suit promotions that run for weeks or months. See our full range of custom displays for more options.

3. Design for a glance

Shoppers walk past quickly. Use a large brand mark, one benefit statement, strong color contrast and visible product. Put the offer or price where the eye lands first. If the product is the hero, let shoppers see and touch it.

4. Make the product easy to reach and easy to refill

Keep the product at a comfortable reach height, and give store staff a fast refill path. A display that is hard to restock ends up half empty, and a half-empty display sends a poor brand signal. A header card or topper can add height and visibility without adding floor space.

5. Build to the retailer’s rules before you finalize artwork

Retailers set limits on footprint, height, weight capacity and assembly effort. Many programs are built around standard pallet footprints, and displays that ship flat and assemble quickly are easier for stores to accept. Ask the buyer for a display spec sheet first, so your design does not get rejected after production.

6. Choose materials and print quality to match the display’s life

Corrugated is the standard choice for temporary and semi-permanent displays. For photo-quality graphics, litho-label corrugated places high-resolution printing on a sturdy board. Permanent fixtures may call for wood, metal or acrylic. Our corrugated boxes and displays page shows what is possible.

7. Prototype, test and measure

Build a sample before committing to a full run. Then compare stores with the display against similar stores without it, and track sell-through, restock frequency and compliance (whether the display was actually set up as designed). That gives you your own data instead of relying on decade-old studies.

What to have ready before you request a display quote

  • Product dimensions, weight and units per display
  • Where the display will be placed (floor, counter, end cap, checkout)
  • Retailer spec sheet or size limits, if you have one
  • Quantity, in-store date and number of stores
  • Artwork files or a brand guide
  • Whether the display is temporary or long-term

Frequently asked questions

What is a POP display?

A point-of-purchase (POP) display is a printed or fabricated in-store unit placed where customers make buying decisions. It features a product and promotes it with graphics, and it can stand on the floor, sit on a counter or attach to a shelf.

What is the difference between POP and POS displays?

POP covers displays anywhere in the store where a purchase decision happens. POS (point of sale) usually refers to the checkout area. Every POS display is a POP display, but not every POP display is at the register.

Do POP displays actually increase sales?

Industry studies report sales lifts from displays, but results vary by product, placement and price. The reliable way to know is to test displays in some stores against similar stores without them.

How do I order a custom POP display in Texas?

Call Packaging Source Inc. at 214-808-7664 or use our contact page. We design and manufacture displays in our own facility, and you can visit our showroom in Frisco, Texas.

Talk to a display specialist

Packaging Source Inc. has more than 26 years of experience designing and manufacturing POP displays, retail packaging and folding cartons. Contact us or call 214-808-7664 to start your project.

Related reading

Sources: Supermarket News on POPAI 2012; Retail Customer Experience on POPAI 2014; Image Reports; Frank Mayer; Sigurdsson et al., 2010.

Sell More With A Custom POP Display

Article Summary: Packaging Source Inc. specializes in fully customized point-of-sale (POS) displays tailored to your business needs and budget. They offer end-to-end services including design, prototyping, manufacturing, inventory management, and shipping. Using materials like wood, metal, and acrylic, they create unique displays with features such as lighting, shelving, glass panels, and more. Options include knock-down (KD) designs for cost-effective shipping or pre-assembled displays. Their expert team ensures each display highlights your brand and products effectively, helping you stand out from competitors and boost sales.

Packaging Source Inc offers help with custom POS displays, whether you need a large display, small display or something that hasn’t even been developed yet. Packaging Source Inc is your source for a custom POP display, offering an extensive product line as well as a variety of service capabilities including prototypes, design, manufacturing, inventory management, drop shipping and warehousing.

We design and build customized point of sale displays utilizing plywood, hardwoods, softwoods, MDF, particleboard, sheet metal, wire, aluminum and acrylics. We can also include your business logo and/or product logo or other digitally printed graphics as part of your custom-designed POS display. We have POP display designers who can help create a look that is completely unique for your own custom point-of-purchase display, including features such as pegboards, adjustable shelving, cabinet lighting, clothing racks, hinged or sliding doors, glass panels and rotational capability.

We have a creative design team who will work with you to customize a retail display design that is optimized to meet your needs and that will not only effectively help sell your products, but will also stay within your specific budget. At Packaging Source Inc, we also specialize in cost-effective knock-down (KD) construction for point of sale displays. Our unique KD designs can help save money by cutting down on package size, shipping and handling costs, and transportation fragility. If you prefer pre-assembled displays, we can also take care of that.

Now you no longer have to settle for stock displays that do not meet the dynamic qualities of your products. You can set your products apart from the competition by making sure you have attractive, dynamic and compelling point of sale displays. Contact Packaging Source Inc and discover how we can improve your bottom line with a custom display program.