How to Prepare College & University Display Solutions in 2026

Why 2026 Planning Matters for Universities

University Planning

University display solutions are an important part of your 2026 inventory planning. The modern campus requires a wide variety of displays—from directional signage to classroom organization to campus communication—and those displays need to be durable, modern, and scalable across large facilities. In addition, they need to share your academic brand to create cohesive campus communications that will help to improve student enrollment and retention. Increased campus events, orientation sessions, student recruitment, and departmental showcases all add up to the success of the institution. By supporting current and prospective students and making them feel they’re an integral part of the campus community, the school improves student retention.

While it sounds like a lot, it’s not. Especially when you partner with shopPOPdisplays for your 2026 higher-ed display solutions. Below, we’ve outlined how to determine your display needs and the types of displays available, and share current campus trends and budgeting tips to get you started today.

Key Takeaways

  • University display solutions are essential for 2026 planning, supporting campus communication, branding, recruitment, and retention across all departments.
  • Most campuses have inventory gaps in high-traffic areas like admissions, student centers, classrooms, libraries, athletic departments, and event spaces—each requiring specific display types to stay organized and student-ready.
  • A mix of digital and physical signage works best, ensuring students, parents, and faculty receive clear, timely, and visible information at every touchpoint.
  • Academic and departmental displays still matter, from literature holders and sign frames to acrylic classroom accessories and collapsible décor for study spaces.
  • Events and showcases drive school pride, and displays like pedestals, custom-printed banners, mobile art racks, and portable counters elevate exhibitions, recruitment days, commencements, and alumni events.
  • Durable display cases and storage solutions are long-term investments, especially for trophy halls, bookstore merchandising, artifact displays, and secure event transport using RTA (ready-to-assemble) fixtures.
  • Top 2026 trends include: clean modern acrylic, natural wood finishes, mixed physical/digital communication zones, cohesive branding across departments, and sustainable materials.
  • Customization is now a campus expectation, with school colors, logos, and mascots appearing on signage, flags, table covers, pedestals, acrylic boxes, and wayfinding.
  • Smart budgeting means ordering early, bundling departmental purchases, prioritizing durable made-to-order options, and aligning procurement with fiscal-year deadlines to maximize value.
  • Partnering with shopPOPdisplays streamlines the entire process, ensuring universities receive modern, scalable, custom-branded solutions that improve communication, enhance events, and strengthen campus identity.

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How to Display and Protect Your American Girl® Dolls in Style

 

New American Girl Dolls

From the historical charm of Samantha Parkington® to the bold spirit of Claudie Wells™, American Girl® dolls embody stories, memories, and meaning. For many, they start as cherished companions and become keepsakes that serve as nostalgic reminders of childhood. Whether you’re a long-time owner or a proud new collector, these display cases for American Girl dolls will enhance your collection.

That’s where the right display case comes in. At shopPOPdisplays, you’ll find high-quality, made-to-order display cases for American Girl® dolls that ensure they are protected and presented with care and intention. Let’s break down how to display your American Girl® dolls in style.

Key Takeaways for Display Cases for American Girl Dolls

  • American Girl® dolls deserve protected, intentional displays. A proper display case prevents dust, UV fading, scratches, and accidental damage—while giving each doll a museum-quality presentation.
  • Acrylic display cases are the top choice for collectors. They offer full visibility, long-term protection, and a clean, modern look that elevates any shelf, room, or collection.
  • shopPOPdisplays offers made-to-order cases sized perfectly for 18″ dolls. Choose from standard acrylic cases, pedestal displays, wall-mounted options, stackable cases, or fully custom printed designs.
  • Customization makes your display truly personal. Options include mirrored or clear bases, LED lighting, engraved nameplates, and printed backdrops to match each doll’s era, theme, or personality.
  • A little maintenance preserves clarity and value. Use a microfiber cloth, avoid harsh cleaners, minimize sun exposure, and rotate dolls occasionally to prevent fading.
  • Collectors trust shopPOPdisplays for quality and precision. Each case is made in the USA, crafted to order, and customizable—ideal for single dolls, growing collections, and large display projects.
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2026 Retail Display Trends: What’s In and What’s Out

Retail Trends

Retail isn’t what it used to be. Projections for 2026 retail display trends reveal that consumer expectations are higher than ever, attention spans are shorter, and standing out in a crowded marketplace takes more than just great products. Today’s shoppers crave retail experiences that are interactive, sustainable, and visually striking. Displays must do more than simply hold merchandise—they should act as powerful tools for storytelling, brand identity, and customer engagement.

That’s why retailers are rethinking everything from materials to technology. Smart displays, modular systems, and eco-conscious design are all shaping the way stores look and function. To stay ahead of the curve, businesses need to have a grasp on 2026 retail display trends and keep up with how they’re evolving.

shopPOPdisplays makes that easier with a collection of forward-thinking solutions that help brands bring their vision to life. Here’s a look at the top 2026 retail display trends reshaping how stores connect with customers.

Key Takeaways:

  • What’s In: Digital integration, sustainable materials, minimalist design, customized fixtures, and immersive setups are defining the future of retail displays.
  • What’s Out: Static signage, cluttered layouts, disposable materials, and generic one-size-fits-all fixtures are losing effectiveness fast.
  • Why It Matters: Today’s shoppers expect experiences, not just products. The right display choices increase engagement, brand impact, and sales.
  • How to Stay Ahead: Refresh visual merchandising regularly, adopt modular and digital solutions, and prioritize sustainability and flexibility.
  • Where shopPOPdisplays Helps: From custom acrylic pedestals to eco-friendly modular displays, shopPOPdisplays offers made-to-order solutions to keep your retail space future-ready.

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How Digital Signage for Restaurants Transforms the Service Industry

Digital Signage for Restaurants

 

It’s not just the food that shapes the experience at a restaurant – the level of customer service is equally important. Every minute spent there, from how fast someone can place an order to how they feel while waiting for it, has an impact on customer satisfaction and sales. That’s why smart businesses are turning to digital signage for restaurants to ensure a quality experience that keeps people happy and wanting to return.

There’s no denying that screens boost sales. In fact, one study found that 80% of brands incorporating digital signage claim a boost in sales reaching up to 33% [source]. So, whether you’re a fast food chain or a cozy local café, using digital signage from shopPOPdisplays will help you stay current and connect with customers. Let’s take a more in-depth look at how digital signage can improve your restaurant.

Key Takeaways

  • Digital signage enhances both experience and efficiency. From ordering speed to overall ambiance, screens help restaurants create smoother, more enjoyable dining experiences that keep customers returning.
  • Sales get a significant boost. Studies show that 80% of brands using digital signage see sales increases of up to 33%.
  • Menus become dynamic and visually appealing. High-resolution digital displays let you update content instantly, showcase mouthwatering images, and switch between menus with ease.
  • Customer engagement improves. Interactive displays promote loyalty programs, suggest meal pairings, and entertain guests with trivia or chef’s picks, reducing perceived wait times.
  • Operations run smoother. Centralized content management eliminates printing costs, saves labor, and ensures brand consistency across multiple locations.
  • Brand identity and atmosphere strengthen. Digital displays help tell your restaurant’s visual story—creating the perfect vibe for cafés, bars, or fine dining.
  • Outdoor signage drives foot traffic. Weather-resistant displays attract attention with bold visuals, specials, and real-time updates for drive-thru or patio areas.
  • shopPOPdisplays provides complete digital solutions. From portable rechargeable units to outdoor digital signage, their high-quality options help restaurants modernize operations and connect with customers. Continue reading How Digital Signage for Restaurants Transforms the Service Industry

How to Create the Best Craft Show Candle Display

 

craft show candle display

Seasoned candle connoisseurs know that the key to successfully selling your goods at a craft fair is creating the right presentation. A well-designed craft show candle display not only attracts foot traffic but also encourages buyers to stop, sample, and purchase. From acrylic risers to hand-crafted wooden displays, we have a wide range of items to elevate your booth and make your candles stand out with display solutions from shopPOPdisplays.

Key Takeaways

  • A strong craft show candle display draws attention and helps differentiate your booth from others.
  • Acrylic risers and shelving can maximize booth space and create height variations.
  • Providing samples and clear signage builds trust and boosts sales.
  • Wooden displays and branded table covers reinforce your brand’s personality.
  • Don’t forget business cards or inserts with website details to encourage repeat sales online.

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How to Display Sculptures at Home

Displaying art isn’t just for galleries. In fact, learning how to display sculptures at home can transform your space from ordinary to unforgettable. Whether it’s a sleek modern piece or a rustic handmade statue, the way you present your sculpture has the ability to further enhance the beauty of the artwork itself. Luckily, with a few thoughtful touches and the right tools from shopPOPdisplays, you can create a home sculpture display that’s both stylish and practical. To get started, let’s explore the different types of pedestals that can bring your sculptures to life.

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Drive Sales With a Captivating Black Friday Sales Sign from shopPOPdisplays

 

Black Friday Prep

For retailers, the excitement of Black Friday is met with the pressure to stand out. Since discounts are everywhere shoppers turn, a well-designed Black Friday sales sign and strategically placed displays are essential to attracting attention, whether you’re a big-box store or a boutique. Done right, these visual tools can turn casual passersby into eager customers and significantly boost sales..

With a bit of planning and the right tools from shopPOPdisplays, you can become the destination, not just another stop. Let’s explore how to use signage and displays to take full advantage of Black Friday, starting with your most important asset: a solid strategy.

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The Ultimate Guide to Thanksgiving Grocery Displays

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving kicks off the holiday season—the busiest time of year for your customers, and most likely, your store. The competition for their dollars is fierce, but you have a holiday hero in your Thanksgiving retail displays. Preparing for Thanksgiving now will allow you to keep your displays fully stocked once the busy season is here. In addition to determining ordering, staffing, and inventory needs, you need to consider your visual merchandising. Keep reading for some tips for successful Thanksgiving grocery store displays.

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The Ultimate Guide to Halloween Visual Merchandising

 

Halloween is more than just costumes and candy—it’s the perfect opportunity for retailers to captivate customers and boost sales through creative visual merchandising. By transforming your store into a spooky spectacle, you can attract foot traffic, enhance the shopping experience, and encourage impulse buys. In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential strategies to make your Halloween visual merchandising displays both eerie and effective.

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Christmas Display Ideas for Retail Stores & Visual Merchandisers

Christmas Display Ideas for Retail Stores

Christmas display ideas for retail stores are essential during the holiday season, which is simultaneously the busiest and most joyful time of year for retail stores. Shoppers are out looking for gifts, decorations, and deals—and festive Christmas displays can make all the difference when it comes to converting sales. With some creativity and smart planning, holiday visual merchandising can ensure your store will stand out and draw in more customers.

In this guide, we’ll explore easy, effective, and visually exciting visual merchandising Christmas display ideas for retail stores. Before diving in, let’s start where every shopper’s journey begins—the window display. We’ll also include how ShopPOPdisplays can help bring these ideas to life.

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