Landing space at a major “big box” retailer is a crucial part of many marketing campaigns. Securing this space can not only increase profits, but it can also promote your brand and enhance your reputation. But getting into the stores isn’t always easy. You must meet strict display compliance standards in order to meet the stringent requirements. 

Failure to do so can result in a chargeback, where the retailer will fine you for failing to meet their standards. Things that may trigger a chargeback include failing to use certain packaging, mislabeling shipping cartons, or even using the wrong pallet. Violations can range from $50 to $5,000. 

In this blog, we’ll look at the requirements of display compliance standards and how McIntyre Displays has the experience to get you in the door of major retailers so you can garner the attention of your potential customers. Understanding and mastering compliance standards is not optional; it is the price of entry into major retail.

Since 1977, McIntyre Displays has been creating displays that bring your vision to life. Because we’re a Lowe’s and Home Depot-approved provider, you don’t have to be concerned about meeting the specs and requirements of large retail stores. Our in-house design team and manufacturing expertise allow us to be a “one-stop shop” so you don’t have the hassle of working with multiple vendors. Want to have real estate in some of the major retail stores? Let’s get started.

What Are Common Retail Display Compliance Standards?

First, these may vary across the retail landscape. That’s why it’s so important to start your journey with McIntyre Displays from the inception of your project. We can help ensure that you get the best start to meet the requirements that will allow you to get into the big box retailers you need.

What Are the Physical Display Standards for Large Retail Stores?

• Lighting requirements: Today’s retail displays are more engaging than ever. This enables your product to form an emotional connection with the consumer, increasing the likelihood that they’ll purchase from you. However, all of these enhancements must still follow the safety protocol and adhere to these standards.
• Accessibility requirements under the ADA: Retail displays must adhere to an extended array of safety standards to ensure adequate space for those who use wheelchairs or other similar devices. Your display should not block access and be free of obstructions.
• Dimensional specs: As we mentioned earlier, every retailer is different. Therefore, they each have their own material and dimensional guidelines for those who wish to place a display in their store. These are often presented in a very detailed vendor guide. When you’re working with McIntyre Displays, you don’t have to concern yourself with the minutiae of these finer points because we’ll take care of them for you. 
• Material restrictions: Does your display need fire-retardant materials? Is the type of foam you want to use allowed? Many stores also have material limitations as part of their complicated compliance standards for displays.

There’s also one item that often gets overlooked: assembly. It’s critical that your retailer is able to easily assemble your display (or for your display to arrive fully assembled). Many retailers simply don’t have the time or the employees to decipher complicated instructions and assembly. 

Are There Any Supply Chain Standards?

You’ll also need to comply with the outlined supply chain standards which may include:

• Identification and labeling
• On-time, in-full delivery standards
• Electronic data requirements
• Planogram standards
• Sustainability and “green” packaging standards

Where Can You Find a Retailer’s Display Compliance Standards?

This generally depends upon the vendor, however, typically these compliance standards for displays are in vendor handbooks or routing guides. In some cases, they may be found on retailer scorecards or in online portals.

How Do Retail Display Designers Ensure Compliance?

When you have McIntyre in your corner, you can rest assured that you’re not only dealing with a team that is creative, but also one that is knowledgeable about all these critical details. As we mentioned earlier, we’re a Lowe’s and Home Depot-approved provider, so we understand what it takes to comply with these regulations. 

The very first step in this process is to secure an updated list of the requirements from the retailer. Reviewing this guide thoroughly is always the primary basis upon which we build our design.

Some of the methods we implement include: 

• Photo audits of the display
• Following planograms carefully
• Digital checklists
• Centralized guidelines
• Physical prototypes

Rest Assured: McIntyre Follows All Compliance Standards for Displays in Retail Stores

You’ve got enough on your plate. Dealing with multiple vendors is not only a headache, but it also opens the door to potential pitfalls. When many different companies are dealing with something as stringent as compliance standards for displays, it creates more opportunities for someone to “drop the ball.”

However, McIntyre Displays can serve as your one-stop shop. 

We already have the proven track record that demonstrates we can seamlessly get displays inside “big box” retailers—which boosts your branding and can help your profits. Want to get started? Let’s have a conversation so we can bring your vision to life.