When choosing a Point-Of-Purchase (POP) signage substrate, it is best to consider the following:
- How long should the signage last?
- How durable does it need to be?
- Will it come into direct and constant contact with customers or store personnel subjecting it to additional wear, tear or fingerprinting?
- Will it be indoors or outdoors?
- Do you meed to utilize both sides of the substrate for printing, or will it be backlit?
- Will it be mounted or framed?
- Will it be a stand-alone piece that requires a sturdieer material?
- What is your budget?
- How will it be printed?
There are individual products made for each use of the POP signage. Having an answer for all of the above will ensure you will select a product that will provide optimum results. Synthetic substrates are often chosen when you need a more durable material that will also allow for bright, eye-catching prints. There are several options available including styrene, rigid vinyl in both white, clear and colors; polycarbonates, and polyesters films. Each substrate has its advantages over the others. This chart will give you a "quick reference guide" to help you choose the right material:
Understanding the performance needs of your finished goods as well as the print method and any post-processing requirements is the best way to consistently choose the right material and understand just how valuable making a synthetic choice over a paper choice might be to your overall success.
Today's synthetic films are offered in a greater variety of printable surfaces, colors, finishes, than ever before. Contact a Tekra graphic film specialist to gain valuable knowledge and discuss your entire project from application, print-method, substrate coating needs and post-processing needs. Ask for samples and specification sheets to determine which synthetic will fill your need. You will find that a greater value is worth the difference in initial cost when switching from paper to plastic.