How to Display Grab & Go Items Without Looking Cluttered

Smart, stylish ways to boost impulse buys without the mess

Q: How can I display grab-and-go items near the register without making it look crowded and tacky?

A: The key to an effective grab-and-go display is curation over clutter. It should look intentional, not overwhelming. Instead of piling items together, think about how to showcase them in a way that feels inviting, easy to browse, and aligned with your brand. Here are some strategies to keep things stylish and effective.

Q: What’s the best way to create height and dimension without it feeling messy?

A: Using tiered trays or risers is one of the simplest ways to add visual interest while keeping items organized. Wooden, acrylic, or metal risers can create different levels, making the display feel dynamic instead of cluttered. My favorite place to shop for these display pieces are: Home Goods, Hobby Lobby, Michaels and World Market.

• Example: If you're selling lip balms, keychains, or small candles, place them on different tiers rather than laying them all flat. This prevents customers from knocking things over and makes it easier for them to see the products at a glance.

  
  

Q: How do I keep the display looking organized instead of like a bargain bin?

A: Use baskets, trays, or small containers to group like items together. This creates a sense of order and makes it easier for customers to browse without feeling overwhelmed.

• Example: Instead of scattering items across the counter, use a sleek tray to hold small lotions, hand sanitizers, or jewelry. A divided tray can help separate different categories while maintaining a clean, polished look.

Q: What if I have limited counter space?

A: A rotating counter display is a great option. t allows you to feature more products in a compact space while making it easy for customers to spin and browse. A tall, stacked basket works well as well. Vary heights of displays for visual appeal. Pay special attention to the space to the right of the counter, shoppers standing at checkout naturally gravitate to this area.

• Example: A spinning rack for small accessories like sunglasses, scrunchies, or giftable trinkets maximizes space without taking over the checkout area.
  

Q: How can I make the display feel more intentional and not just an afterthought?

A: Signage with a story makes a huge difference. A well-placed sign can elevate your display from just being a collection of products to an experience for your customers. POP signage that includes benefits or any recent PR or is it going viral on TikTok? Let your customers know and why.

• Example: Instead of just stacking bath bombs near the register, add a small sign that says, “Turn your bath into a spa experience – grab one today!” This subtle messaging encourages impulse purchases in a way that feels engaging, not pushy.

  
  

Q: What role does psychology play in impulse purchases?

A: Anytime a customer can touch, feel, or smell a product, the chances of them buying it go up significantly. This is why testers are perfect for grab-and-go displays. The simple act of picking something up creates a subconscious connection—once it's in their hands, they're more likely to purchase it.

• Example: A display of hand creams or perfumes with testers encourages customers to engage with the product, increasing the likelihood of a sale. If you’re selling jewelry, keeping a small mirror nearby can have the same effect.

  
  

Q: What price points work best for impulse buys?

A: In my experience, keeping impulse items under $25 works well because it falls into the “no-brainer” pricing category. Anything under that threshold feels like an easy add-on, especially at checkout.

However, timing matters. We recently tested a $58 heart necklace for Valentine’s Day and went from selling 3-5 per week to 3-5 per day as the holiday got closer. The urgency of the occasion made customers more willing to spend.

The key is to be aware of timing and perceived value. During peak shopping times, customers are more likely to justify higher-priced impulse buys, especially when they’re seasonal or gift-worthy.

A grab-and-go section near the register can be a powerful revenue booster when done right. Keep it simple, curated, and aligned with your brand aesthetic. The goal is to make it easy for customers to spot something they didn’t know they needed—without feeling overwhelmed.

What types of grab-and-go products are you displaying? Share your ideas in the comments!