What Are The Different Types of Display Cases Used in Retail?

You likely already know about the power of in-store atmospheres and branding experiences. Visual merchandising professionals can create these environments using the wide variety of retail store fixtures available. But did you know there is power in different display cases as well? Various types of display cases (aka case displays) tend to be the store fixture stars in upscale or luxury retail settings.

Now, you’ll want to learn more about what enclosed case displays can offer and get a closer look at which types may best suit your upscale sales environment. Whether you’re displaying jewelry and watches or fragrances and cosmetics, case displays will help you create the personalized sales experience your customers expect.

Here are a few of the most popular types of display cases we regularly create for our Display Craft Manufacturing clients.

Counter Showcase Displays

Counter displays stand out as one of the most popular display cases in retail environments due to their exceptional versatility. These store fixtures function as a sales counter where staff can assist customers and as pedestal display cases for merchandise that must be protected and easily accessible.

Typically designed as glass display cases, counter showcases offer durability and strength, capable of supporting additional merchandise or even a cash register on the top surface. Despite their sleek appearance, these standing display cases are far from fragile, combining form and function to enhance your visual merchandising efforts.

For an example of how effective these countertop displays can be, take a look at the display we created for Boscov’s department store. It perfectly illustrates how counter showcases can be eye-catching and practical, ideal for displaying small items or valuable items you want to keep within easy reach but securely housed.

Slimline Towers

You’ll quickly notice a vertical tower display from our Boscov’s installation in the photo above. While not enclosed as a traditional showcase, these slimline towers can also serve as effective open displays. Vertical cases maximize display space while adding depth and variety to your visual merchandising strategy.

When incorporating vertical display cases into your store, it’s important to keep them at a manageable height so that shoppers can easily view the merchandise inside. In the case of the tower at Boscov’s, you’ll observe that the higher shelves hold store décor items that are not for sale. These items draw the eye without requiring close inspection, while the lower shelves are reserved for merchandise displayed behind the counter.

Glass Jewelry Cases

The main image at the top of this post shows several different types of glass jewelry cases from an installation we did for Bloomingdale’s a little while ago. Some are configured as slimline towers, while others are counter showcases and more.

You’ll notice that different types of display cases can be classified into several categories simultaneously. This is especially true with jewelry display cases. It’s important to note that abundant glass or acrylic material is crucial in creating effective jewelry displays. You want your customers to be able to see all the fine details of these exquisite pieces, so they feel enticed to ask your sales staff to help them look even closer—and hopefully make a purchase!

Wall Display Cases

Wall display cases are an excellent choice for strategically showcasing valuable merchandise at eye level, whether they are built-in or freestanding against a wall surface. This positioning makes them perfect for browsing, allowing customers to engage with the products on display easily.

To enhance visual merchandising, consider incorporating spotlights into your wall-mounted display cases. These added lighting elements help to draw shoppers’ attention, making the displays more eye-catching and highlighting the items you want to emphasize.

Window Displays

While not technically display cases, your retail store’s windows offer an opportunity for some of the most effective visual merchandising available. Whether you’re located along a street in a busy downtown or open into a shopping mall environment, your windows need to entice shoppers to come through your doors.

Consider incorporating innovative display solutions to make the most of this valuable space. For instance, the unique ceiling-mounted window display case we designed for Radcliffe Jewelers exemplifies how to use expansive window areas—particularly in mall settings—to showcase small, exquisite items. This approach highlights valuable items and enhances the overall appeal of your retail environment, making your store more eye-catching to potential customers.

Want Several Types of Custom Display Cases? You Dream It, We Build It!

Here at Display Craft Manufacturing, we believe that creating customized retail experiences requires custom manufacturing capabilities, and we live and breathe this approach every day. We are committed to the highest levels of quality and service for our clients and can help you with specialized design services, as well as planning and engineering. Once we have helped you translate your visual merchandising dreams, we fabricate, deliver, and install your store fixtures, too—on time and within budget.

Ready to get started on your next store fixture upgrade project? Get in touch with the retail display experts at Display Craft Manufacturing today!