Ultimate Guide to Lowe’s store Sidestack Display 2026

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Struggling with Lowe's complex display rules? A small mistake can get your display rejected, wasting time and money. This guide makes the 2026 requirements simple and clear.

Your Lowe’s sidestack display must be either branded or seasonal/non-branded. Branded displays1 use your logo and colors, while seasonal ones are white with a blue gable. This guide details the specific rules for each type to ensure your display gets approved and placed in stores.

Main types of Lowe's sidestack display2

Unsure which display type to choose for your product at Lowe's? Picking the wrong one can lead to immediate rejection by the store. Let's clarify the two approved options.

Lowe's only allows two sidestack display types: Branded or Seasonal/Non-Branded. You must confirm with your Lowe's Merchant3 which version is right for your product. Branded uses your logo and colors, while Seasonal is for specific events and uses a standard white and blue design.

A side-by-side comparison of a branded and a seasonal Lowe's display.

The choice between a branded and a seasonal display isn't just about looks; it's a strategic decision. You need to talk to your Lowe's Merchant3 to confirm which path is right for your product and promotion. Each type serves a different purpose and has strict visual rules.

Branded Displays

• Vendor logo and brand color
• White can be the base color for OPP brands only.

Seasonal / Non-Branded Displays

• White base with blue gable • Used for seasonal / non-branded items,
• including Halloween and Trim-A-Tree on seasonal pad

Here's a simple breakdown:

Feature Branded Display Seasonal / Non-Branded Display
Primary Use Promoting a specific vendor's product Themed events, non-branded items
Base Color Vendor's brand color (White for OPP) White
Key Graphic Vendor's logo Blue gable design
Goal Build brand recognition Create a cohesive seasonal look
Approval Must be confirmed with Lowe's Merchant3 Must be confirmed with Lowe's Merchant3

Base sizes

Worried your display won't fit in the designated spot at Lowe's? Using the wrong dimensions is a common mistake that leads to rejection. Let's get the measurements right.

No matter the type, all sidestacks / stackouts should be 52-in high, including the pallet and the header. Ideal standard sizes are shown below. Quarter pallets only: Width can range from 16-in to 30-in, and depth can range from 16-in to 24-in. Note: Take into account pallet height when designing to ensure a total height of 52-in, as pallet heights may vary.

with a pallet Lowe's sidestack display. with a pallet Lowe's sidestack display.

Sticking to the approved dimensions is non-negotiable. Lowe's has planned its store layouts precisely, and a display that is too tall, too wide, or too deep can block aisles, create safety hazards, or simply look out of place. The total height of 52 inches is a critical number. It's important to remember that pallet heights can vary slightly, so you must account for this during the design phase. Don't design your display to be exactly 52 inches tall and then put it on a 5-inch pallet. The total height is what matters.

Why Standard Sizes4 are Key

Standardization helps Lowe's manage its floor space effectively. When every vendor follows the same rules, it ensures a clean, organized shopping experience for customers. It also makes it easier for store staff to place and move displays.

Ideal Standard Sizes4

While there is a range for quarter pallets, Lowe's has ideal standard sizes they prefer. Designing to these dimensions often makes the approval process smoother. Here are the most common footprints:

Pallet Type Ideal Width Ideal Depth Total Height (with Pallet)
Quarter Pallet 24 inches 20 inches 52 inches
Half Pallet 48 inches 24 inches 52 inches
Full Pallet 48 inches 40 inches 52 inches

Always double-check the pallet height you'll be using. A standard wood pallet is typically around 5 inches high. When we design a display for a client, one of the first questions we ask is about the pallet, so we can subtract its height from the 52-inch total to get the maximum height for the cardboard structure and header.

Quarter pallet options

Planning to use a quarter pallet display at Lowe's? You need to know the exact specifications for this popular format to ensure it gets approved and looks great in the store.

The standard quarter pallet display size for Lowe's is 24 inches wide by 20 inches deep. The total height, including the pallet, must be 52 inches. You must account for the pallet's height in your design.

An example of a 24x20 quarter pallet display for a retail store. An example of a 24x20 quarter pallet display for a retail store.

Quarter pallet displays are incredibly popular. They are versatile and can be placed in many different locations throughout the store, like at the end of aisles (on endcaps) or in wider "action alleys." Because they are so common, the rules for them are very specific. The goal is to create a display that is stable, shoppable, and fits perfectly into Lowe's floor plan.

Designing for the 52-Inch Total Height5

The most common mistake we see is forgetting to factor in the pallet. Let's say you're using a standard 5-inch wooden pallet.

  • Total Allowed Height: 52 inches
  • Pallet Height: 5 inches
  • Remaining Height for Display + Header: 52" - 5" = 47 inches

This means your physical cardboard display, from the top of the pallet to the top of the header, must not exceed 47 inches.

With or Without a Pallet Base Wrap?

You have two main options for how the display interacts with the pallet:

Option Description Pros & Cons
Display Sits on Pallet The corrugated display structure is simply placed on top of a standard wooden pallet. Pro: Simple, cost-effective. <br> Con: The raw wooden pallet is visible, which can look unfinished.
Display with Pallet Wrap/Skirt6 The display sits on the pallet, but an extra piece of printed cardboard (a "skirt" or "base wrap") is used to cover the pallet. Pro: Creates a fully branded, clean look from top to bottom. <br> Con: Adds a small amount of extra cost and assembly time.

For a premium look, we almost always recommend a base wrap. It elevates the entire presentation and offers more space for branding or product information.

What are the half pallet options7 for Lowe's displays?

Need a larger footprint for your products? A half pallet display might be the perfect solution, but you have to follow Lowe's specific guidelines for this format.

A Lowe's half pallet display should measure 48 inches wide by 24 inches deep. Just like other formats, the total height, including the pallet it sits on, must be 52 inches.

A large half pallet display in a wide store aisle.

Half pallet displays offer a significant amount of space to showcase a wider range of products or a larger quantity of a single product. They are often placed in high-traffic areas, like main aisles or at the front of the store, where they can make a big impact. Because of their size, ensuring they are structurally sound and meet the exact dimensions is critical for safety and store compliance.

Planning Your Half Pallet Display

The process is similar to the quarter pallet, but the scale is larger. The 48" x 24" footprint is standard and fits perfectly when placed by store staff.

  • Total Allowed Height: 52 inches
  • Typical Pallet Height: 5 inches
  • Max Height for Display + Header: 47 inches

With a 48-inch width, the structural design becomes even more important. You can't just scale up a quarter pallet design. The internal supports must be engineered to prevent the shelves from sagging in the middle. We often use multiple vertical support walls or engineered structures inside the display to carry the load down to the pallet.

Common Uses for Half Pallets

Use Case Description Why it Works
Showcasing a Product Line8 Display multiple related SKUs, like a full range of car cleaning products or different paint colors. The width allows for side-by-side comparison and encourages customers to buy multiple items.
Bulk Quantity of One Item9 Stack a large volume of a single, popular product, like bags of charcoal or cases of motor oil. The large size communicates value and makes it easy for customers to grab and go.
Heavy or Bulky Items10 Ideal for products that are too large or heavy for standard shelving. The display is built on a sturdy pallet, making it easy to move with a forklift and providing a stable base.

What are the full pallet options11 for Lowe's displays?

When you need to make the biggest possible impact, a full pallet display is the way to go. What are the rules for this massive retail powerhouse?

A full pallet display at Lowe's uses the standard 48-inch by 40-inch pallet footprint. The maximum height for the entire unit, from the floor to the top of the header, is 52 inches.

A full pallet display stacked high with product in a warehouse club style.

Full pallet displays are the heavyweights of retail marketing. They are essentially a self-contained, shoppable billboard for your product. You'll often see them in the main "action alleys" of Lowe's or on the seasonal pad at the front of the store. They are designed to stop customers in their tracks and drive high-volume sales. Because they hold a large amount of product, the structural design is paramount.

Designing a Compliant Full Pallet Display

The 52-inch height limit is especially important here. It might seem low for such a large footprint, but it's a rule designed for shopper safety and accessibility. It ensures that even the products on the top layer are easy for most customers to reach.

  • Total Allowed Height: 52 inches
  • Typical Pallet Height: 5 inches
  • Max Height for Display + Header: 47 inches

The display itself can be a simple tray holding stacked product, or it can be a more complex unit with tiers or shelves.

Key Considerations for Full Pallets

Consideration Why It's Important Our Approach
Structural Load These displays can hold hundreds or even thousands of pounds. The corrugated structure must not fail. We use high-strength double-wall or even triple-wall corrugated board and design robust internal support systems. We always conduct physical weight testing.
Shoppability12 Customers must be able to easily take products from the display without it becoming unstable or messy. We design trays with low fronts or create tiered structures that make it easy to access products at all levels, even as the display empties.
Assembly & Logistics13 Full pallet displays are often pre-packed with product at your factory and shipped directly to Lowe's distribution centers. The design must be easy to assemble and pack. We design for simplicity and provide clear instruction sheets to make the co-packing process efficient.

How can you use the sides of your display base?

Are you ignoring the sides of your display? This is valuable marketing space that many brands overlook. Let's turn those blank sides into effective communication tools.

The sides of your display base offer a prime opportunity for extra branding, product information, or assembly instructions. On a branded display, you can continue your design. On a seasonal display, they should typically remain white to maintain a clean look.

![The side of a display showing a brand logo and product benefits.](https://placehold.co/600x400 "Display Side Pane.](https://placehold.co/600x400 "Display Side Panel Marketing")

Think about how customers navigate a store aisle. They don't always see your display head-on. Often, the first thing they see is the side of it as they walk down the main path. Leaving this space blank is a missed opportunity. I once worked with a client selling gardening tools. We printed a simple diagram on the side of their display showing how to use their unique weeding tool. Sales went up by 15% because it answered a key question for customers before they even saw the front of the display.

What to Print on the Sides

The content you put on the side panels depends on your product and marketing goals. It should be simple and easy to understand at a glance.

Content Idea Purpose Best For...
Brand Logo Reinforces brand identity from all angles. Almost any branded display.
Product Benefits List 2-3 key features with icons (e.g., "Easy to Use," "Long Lasting"). Products with unique features that aren't immediately obvious.
"How-To" Diagram A simple visual guide on how to use the product. Tools, DIY kits, or products that require some explanation.
Lifestyle Image A photo of the product in use. Products that sell a vision or an experience, like outdoor furniture or decor.
Cross-Promotion Mention a related product ("Works great with our Brand X Cleaner!"). Brands with a family of related products.

Technical Considerations

When designing for the sides, remember that they will be creased and folded. It's important to keep critical text or logos away from the corners to avoid distortion. Keep the message bold and simple, as people will be walking past it quickly.

What are the rules for base color and logo size on branded displays?

Want to use your brand colors on a Lowe's display? You can, but there are specific rules you need to follow for colors and logos to get your design approved.

On a branded display, the base should use your primary brand color and feature your logo. White is only allowed as a base color for OPP (Own Product Portfolio) brands. Your logo must be clearly visible but not overwhelming.

A branded display base with a clear logo and brand-specific color.

A branded display is your chance to shine in the aisle. Using your brand's signature color helps customers who are already familiar with you to spot your products from a distance. For new customers, it helps build that initial brand association. However, Lowe's wants to maintain a professional and organized look in their stores, so they have some guidelines to prevent the aisles from looking too chaotic.

Base Color Rules

The main rule is straightforward: use your brand's primary color.

  • If your brand is "Big Red Tools," your display base should be red.
  • If your brand is "Green Thumb Gardens," your base should be green.

The exception is for OPP (Own Product Portfolio) brands, which are brands that Lowe's has a special partnership with or owns. These specific brands are allowed to use a clean, white base. You must confirm with your Lowe's Merchant if you fall into this category. Do not assume you can use white.

Logo Sizing and Placement

Your logo is the star of the show, but it shouldn't be obnoxious. The goal is clear identification, not a full-takeover.

Guideline Why It's Important
Clear & Legible The logo should be large enough to be easily read from 5-10 feet away. If customers can't tell who the brand is, the display loses its primary purpose.
Centered Placement Typically, the logo is centered on the front-facing panel of the base. This provides a balanced, professional look.
Don't Crowd the Edges Keep the logo away from score lines and edges to prevent it from being cut off or distorted. A cropped logo looks unprofessional and poorly planned.
Respect the "Quiet Space" Don't place other text or graphics too close to your logo. Let it breathe. This helps the logo stand out and maintains its integrity.

We always recommend getting a digital or even a physical proof of your display. This allows you to see how the logo looks at its actual size and make sure it has the impact you want without violating any rules.

How do you feature two brands on one Lowe's display?

Have a promotion that involves two brands? Co-branded displays are possible at Lowe's, but you need a clear and fair way to present both partners on a single display.

When creating a co-branded display for two brands, the space should be divided equally. Each brand gets 50% of the visual real estate on the base and header, creating a balanced and fair presentation.

A display that is visually split down the middle, showing two different brands.

Co-branded displays are a great way for complementary products to team up. For example, a paintbrush brand might partner with a paint brand. This can be very effective, but the design needs to be handled carefully to avoid looking cluttered and to ensure both brands are represented fairly. The key is balance.

Designing a 50/50 Split

The most common and effective way to design a two-brand display is a simple vertical split.

  • Header: The left half of the header features Brand A's logo and colors, while the right half features Brand B's logo and colors.
  • Base: The design on the base mirrors the header. The left side of the base uses Brand A's identity, and the right side uses Brand B's.
  • Product: The products themselves are usually placed on the corresponding side of the display. Brand A's products on the left, Brand B's on the right.

Example Co-Branding Scenario

Display Section Brand A (Power Drills) Brand B (Drill Bits)
Header (Left Side) Power Drills logo, red background (Empty)
Header (Right Side) (Empty) Drill Bits logo, blue background
Base (Left Side) Red background, "More Power" tagline (Empty)
Base (Right Side) (Empty) Blue background, "Perfect Fit" tagline
Shelves Power Drills are merchandised on the left shelves. Drill Bits are merchandised on the right shelves.

This clear separation makes it easy for the customer to understand the partnership and find the product they are looking for. It also prevents one brand from overshadowing the other, which is crucial for maintaining a good partnership. Always get written approval from both brand managers before moving to production.

Can you feature three brands on a Lowe's display?

Trying to fit three brands onto a single display? It's a complex challenge, and you need a clear visual hierarchy to make it work without creating a mess.

Yes, you can feature three brands, but it requires a "primary" and "secondary" brand strategy. One brand takes the lead with 50% of the space, while the other two smaller brands share the remaining 50%.

A display with one large brand section and two smaller, equal sections.

Putting three brands on one display is tricky. If you try to give each brand equal space, the design becomes crowded and confusing for the customer. I've seen attempts at this, and they often look like a chaotic mess. The customer doesn't know where to look first. The solution that Lowe's prefers is to establish a clear visual hierarchy. One brand needs to be the hero of the story.

The Primary/Secondary Brand Strategy

This strategy creates an organized and easy-to-understand display. Here’s how it works:

  1. Identify the Primary Brand: This is usually the main product or the brand driving the promotion. This brand gets 50% of the visual space, typically the entire left half of the display (header and base).
  2. Identify the Secondary Brands: These are the two partner brands. They share the other 50% of the space. This means each of these secondary brands gets 25% of the total visual space. They would occupy the top-right and bottom-right quarters of the display.

Visual Layout for a Three-Brand Display

Display Section Primary Brand (50%) Secondary Brand A (25%) Secondary Brand B (25%)
Header Left Half Top-Right Quarter Bottom-Right Quarter
Base Left Half Top-Right Quarter Bottom-Right Quarter
Product Placement Usually occupies the most prominent shelves or the largest area of the display. Occupies a smaller, dedicated section. Occupies a smaller, dedicated section.

This approach tells a clear story. It says, "Here is the main product from Brand A, and it works great with these accessory products from Brand B and Brand C." This hierarchy guides the customer's eye and makes the shopping experience much simpler. Before you proceed, this layout must be agreed upon by all three brand partners.

What are the guidelines for double-sided pods?

Want to capture customer attention from two directions at once? Double-sided pods are a great way to do it, but they must be designed to be shoppable from both sides.

Double-sided pods, or displays, must be identical on both sides. This includes the branding, messaging, and product layout. The goal is to provide a consistent and functional shopping experience from either direction of approach.

A display in the middle of an aisle that is identical on the front and back.

Double-sided displays are often placed in the center of wide "action alleys," where customer traffic flows in both directions. This placement gives you a huge advantage, doubling your opportunity to catch a shopper's eye. However, this means the display has no "back." Both sides are the "front." I remember a client who tried to save money by printing a full-color graphic on one side and leaving the other side plain brown cardboard. The store refused to put it out because the "back" side looked unfinished and unprofessional to shoppers walking from that direction.

Key Rules for Double-Sided Design

  1. Mirror Image: The graphics, header, and base design on one side must be exactly the same on the other. If you have a logo on the left and a product photo on the right on one side, it must be the same on the reverse side.
  2. Shoppable from Both Sides: This is the most important rule. A customer must be able to remove product easily from either side. This often requires a pass-through design or separate product cavities for each side. You cannot have a solid back panel that blocks access from one side.
  3. Structural Stability: Because these displays are often accessed from two sides, they need to be extra stable. The internal structure must be strong enough to handle being pushed and pulled from two directions.

Common Double-Sided Structures

Structure Type How it Works Best For...
Pass-Through Shelves The shelves are open from front to back, allowing product to be stocked from one side and shopped from both. Smaller, uniform items that can be stacked neatly.
Back-to-Back Units Essentially two separate displays that are joined together with a common internal support panel. Larger items or when you need to separate different SKUs clearly.
Gravity-Fed Bins Product is loaded from the top or back and slides down to a dispense point on both sides. Small, loose items like hardware or packaged snacks.

When designed correctly, a double-sided pod can be one of the most effective display types in the store.

Should you use a base wrap for your branded display?

Wondering if a base wrap is worth the extra cost? While not always required, using a base wrap is a professional touch that can make your branded display look more polished.

A base wrap is a printed piece of cardboard that covers the pallet your display sits on. It creates a seamless, fully branded look from top to bottom and hides the unsightly wooden pallet from view.

A comparison of a display with a plain pallet versus one with a printed base wrap.

You've spent time and money designing a beautiful display for your product. But if it's sitting on top of a rough, dirty wooden pallet, it can cheapen the entire presentation. A base wrap, also called a pallet skirt, is the solution. It's a simple but incredibly effective way to elevate your display's appearance. It tells the customer that you care about every detail of your brand's presentation.

Benefits of Using a Base Wrap

For a relatively small investment, a base wrap provides several key benefits:

  • Premium Appearance: It covers the pallet, creating a clean, continuous graphic from the floor up. This looks much more professional and high-end.
  • More Branding Space: The wrap itself is another surface you can print on. You can add your logo, brand colors, or even a tagline to this area.
  • Hides Pallet Damage: Wooden pallets are often scuffed, splintered, or stained. A base wrap hides all these imperfections.
  • Protects the Display: It can add a small layer of protection to the very bottom of your display from floor cleaners and scuffs.

Design and Implementation

Aspect Details
Material Usually made from a thinner, more flexible corrugated board (like E-flute) or even a heavy cardstock that can be easily wrapped around the pallet.
Graphics The graphics on the wrap should match the branding on the main display. Using your primary brand color creates a great "color blocking" effect in the aisle.
Attachment The wrap can be attached with adhesive tabs, clips, or by designing it as a four-sided sleeve that simply slides over the pallet. We design them to be easy for anyone to install in seconds.
Cost The cost is minimal compared to the overall cost of the display and the products on it. The perceived value it adds is almost always worth it.

Unless you are on an extremely tight budget, we almost always recommend that our clients include a base wrap in their plans for a branded Lowe's display.

Where do price labels go on base wraps and tall inserts?

Your display looks great, but how will customers know the price? Proper placement of price labels is a crucial, and often overlooked, part of display design for Lowe's.

Price labels or channels should be placed in a dedicated, easy-to-see location. On displays with base wraps, a price channel is often integrated into the wrap itself. For taller displays, an insert can be used.

A close-up of a price channel on a display base wrap.

A customer who can't find the price of an item is very likely to just walk away. Making the price clear and easy to find is essential for converting interest into a sale. Lowe's has specific requirements for this to ensure consistency across the store. You can't just stick a price sticker anywhere. You need to design a dedicated spot for the official store-provided price label.

Common Price Label Solutions

There are two primary methods for showing the price on a sidestack display, and the one you choose depends on your display's design.

  1. Integrated Price Channel on Base Wrap: This is the most common and professional-looking solution. We design the base wrap to include a clear plastic channel, usually about 1.25 inches high, that is affixed to the cardboard. Store employees can then easily slide the printed price label into this channel. It's clean, secure, and meets retailer standards.

  2. Tall Insert with Price Channel: If your display doesn't have a base wrap or if the product sits very low, you might use a "tall insert." This is a separate, thin piece of printed cardboard that sticks up from the base. It can provide more product information and will have a price channel attached to it.

Best Practices for Price Placement

Placement Guideline Why It's Important
Front and Center The price should be on the main, front-facing part of the display. Customers shouldn't have to search for the price.
Consistent Height The price channel should be at a consistent, easy-to-read height, typically between 24 and 48 inches from the floor. This follows ergonomic principles and retailer planograms.
Don't Obscure Branding The price channel should have its own space. Don't place it directly over your logo or key marketing message. We design a specific, reserved area for the channel in the artwork.
Use Standard Channel Sizes Retailers like Lowe's use standard-sized price labels. The channel must be the correct size to hold them. The most common size is 1.25" H. Using a non-standard size will mean your price can't be displayed.

We always discuss price channel integration early in the design process to ensure it's a seamless part of the final display.

What are the rules for seasonal or non-branded Lowe's displays?

Planning a display for a holiday or a non-branded promotion? The design rules are very different from a standard branded display, and you must follow them exactly.

Seasonal and non-branded displays at Lowe's must use a standard design: a plain white base with a specific Lowe's blue gable graphic. This creates a uniform look for store-wide events like Halloween.

A clean, white display with a simple blue gable graphic at the top.

When Lowe's runs a big seasonal promotion, they want all the related displays to have a consistent, cohesive look. This helps customers easily identify products that are part of the event. To achieve this, they require vendors to use a standardized display design instead of their own branding. This means you have to put your brand colors and logos aside for these specific promotions.

Key Elements of a Seasonal Display

The design is intentionally simple and clean. The focus is on the products themselves, not the vendor's brand.

  • Base Color: The entire base structure of the display must be plain white. No other colors are allowed.
  • Header/Gable: The header should not feature your logo. Instead, it uses a pre-approved graphic provided by Lowe's, which is typically a simple blue "gable" or roof shape design. Sometimes, for specific holidays, a different graphic may be required (e.g., a pumpkin for Halloween).
  • No Vendor Logos: Your company logo cannot appear anywhere on the display. The product packaging itself is the only place your branding will be visible.

When Are These Displays Used?

Event/Product Type Example Why a Standard Design is Used
Major Holidays Halloween, Christmas (Trim-A-Tree) Creates a "store within a store" feel for the holiday, making a bigger impact than many individual branded displays.
Seasonal Promotions Spring Black Friday, Summer Patio Event Unifies a wide variety of products (from grills to garden gnomes) under a single promotional banner.
Non-Branded Items Items like basic hardware, tarps, or other commodities. For products where the brand is not the primary selling point, a simple, clean presentation is all that's needed.

Before you start designing, you must confirm with your Lowe's Merchant that a seasonal/non-branded display is required for your program. They will provide you with the exact artwork for the blue gable or other required graphics.

What are the essential do's and don'ts for Lowe's displays?

Feeling overwhelmed by all the rules? Sometimes a simple checklist is the best way to make sure you've covered all the bases for your Lowe's display design.

The most important "do" is to confirm all details with your Lowe's Merchant. The most important "don't" is to assume you know the rules or can bend them. Always follow the official supplier guide.

A checklist with green checkmarks for "Do" and red X's for "Don't".

Over the years, we've seen a lot of displays succeed and a lot of them fail before they even hit the store floor. The difference often comes down to paying attention to the details. Getting a display rejected is costly, not just in the money you spent making it, but in the lost sales and potential damage to your relationship with the retailer. Here is a quick reference guide to keep you on the right track.

Display Do's and Don'ts Checklist

Do Don't
DO get written approval from your Lowe's Merchant on the display type (Branded vs. Seasonal). DON'T start designing until you know which type is required.
DO design the total height to be exactly 52 inches, including the pallet. DON'T forget to subtract the pallet height from your cardboard structure's height.
DO use strong, durable corrugated board (B/C double-wall is a good start) for the base. DON'T use cheap, flimsy material that will buckle under the product's weight.
DO integrate a standard 1.25" price channel in a visible location. DON'T just leave a blank space and hope the store staff can tape a price sign on.
DO follow the specific color and logo rules for branded or seasonal displays. DON'T use your brand colors on a seasonal display or use a white base on a non-OPP branded display.
DO test your display by fully loading it with product to check for stability. DON'T ship a display that has not been physically tested for structural integrity.
DO provide clear, simple assembly instructions if the display ships flat. DON'T assume store employees will know how to build your complex design.

This list covers the most common issues we see. When in doubt, ask your Lowe's contact or work with an experienced display partner like us. It's always better to ask a question upfront than to deal with a rejection later.

What are the pallet and structural guidelines for Lowe's displays?

Is your display strong enough to survive in a busy retail environment? The structural integrity of your display and the quality of the pallet it sits on are critical for safety and compliance.

Your display must be structurally sound to hold the full product weight for the promotion's duration. It must sit on a high-quality, 4-way entry pallet (like a Grade A wood pallet or a CHEP pallet).

A sturdy, well-built display on a clean, blue CHEP pallet.

Safety is the number one priority for any retailer. A display that collapses can injure customers or employees, damage products, and create a huge liability for both your brand and the retailer. This is why the guidelines around structure and pallets are so strict and non-negotiable. We take this part of the design process extremely seriously.

Pallet Requirements

The pallet is the literal foundation. It must be high quality.

  • Type: A 4-way entry pallet is required. This means a pallet jack or forklift can pick it up from any of the four sides. This is essential for easy placement in the store.
  • Quality: No broken boards, no protruding nails, no large cracks. Lowe's will reject displays that arrive on damaged or low-quality pallets. Using a Grade A recycled wood pallet or a pooled pallet from a provider like CHEP (blue) or PECO (red) is the best practice.
  • Size: The pallet size must match the display footprint (e.g., 48"x40" for a full pallet).

Structural Guidelines for the Corrugated Display

The cardboard part of your display has to do the heavy lifting.

Guideline Why It's Important Our Solution
Material Strength The board must be strong enough for the product weight. This is measured by an ECT (Edge Crush Test) rating. We calculate the total product weight and select a corrugated board with an appropriate ECT rating, often a 44 ECT or 48 ECT double-wall board.
Internal Supports Shelves, especially wide ones, need support to prevent sagging. We design internal vertical walls and load-bearing structures that transfer weight directly down to the pallet.
Stability Test The display must not tip over easily. We perform a "push test" on a fully loaded prototype, applying a certain amount of force to the top to ensure it is stable.
Durability The display must last for the entire promotional period (e.g., 6-8 weeks). We consider factors like humidity and potential wear and tear, and may recommend features like moisture-resistant coatings.

What are the guidelines for placards on Lowe's displays?

Need to add some extra information to your display? A placard can be a good way to do it, but it must be integrated properly and not look like a last-minute addition.

Placards or additional signs must be professionally integrated into the display's design. They cannot be simply taped on and must not obstruct the product or violate any height or width restrictions.

A display with a small, die-cut sign attached to a shelf edge.

Sometimes, you have a special message that doesn't fit on the main header or base. Maybe it's a "New Item" callout, a QR code, or a financing offer. A small, supplementary sign, or placard, can be used. However, retailers like Lowe's are very particular about these. They don't want displays to look cluttered with a bunch of extra signs taped on by the sales team. Any additional signage needs to look like it's part of the original, professional design.

How to Use Placards Correctly

If you need a placard, it should be planned during the initial design phase.

  1. Professional Attachment: The placard should attach to the display in a clean, secure way. This could mean designing slots in the shelves for the placard to slide into, or using plastic clips designed for retail signage. Absolutely no tape.
  2. Material: The placard should be made of a professional material, like printed cardstock or thin corrugated board. It should not be a flimsy piece of paper.
  3. Consistent Branding: The design of the placard (colors, fonts) should match the overall branding of the display.
  4. Placement: The placard must not stick out beyond the approved footprint of the display (e.g., 24"W x 20"D). It also cannot make the display taller than the 52" height limit. It should be placed where it doesn't block customers from taking the product.

Examples of Good Placard Use

Placard Type Description Placement Idea
Shelf Talker A small sign that clips onto the front of a shelf. Used to highlight the price or a key feature of the specific product on that shelf.
"New Item" Flag A small, die-cut sign that sticks out from the side of a shelf. Draws attention to a new product launch. Must not extend into the aisle.
QR Code Block A small block with a QR code that leads to a "how-to" video or project idea. Placed on a shelf or the base, in a location that is easy for customers to scan.

When we design a display that needs a placard, we engineer the attachment method right into the main structure, so it looks intentional and professional.

How should you design a 'Lowe's Deals' header?

Is your product part of a 'Lowe's Deals' promotion? This requires a specific header design that you must get exactly right to be compliant.

A 'Lowe's Deals' header uses a specific, pre-approved template provided by Lowe's. It typically features a yellow and black design with the official 'Lowe's Deals' logo. You cannot create your own version.

A header with a bright yellow background and the 'Lowe's Deals' logo.

The 'Lowe's Deals' promotion is a major traffic driver for the store. To make it instantly recognizable to customers, all products included in the event must use consistent signage. Your brand takes a backseat to the promotional branding in this case. The goal is to create a powerful, unified message throughout the store that screams "Value!" to the shopper.

Anatomy of a 'Lowe's Deals' Header

While the exact design can change from year to year, the core elements are usually consistent.

  • Official Logo: You must use the official 'Lowe's Deals' logo file provided by your merchant. Do not try to recreate it or use a low-resolution version you found online.
  • Color Scheme: The design is almost always dominated by a bright, eye-catching yellow. This color is chosen specifically to stand out in the busy store environment. Black and white are used for text and accents.
  • Space for Your Message: The template will usually include a designated area where you can print your specific product's price or deal message (e.g., "Was $19.99, Now $14.99"). The font and size for this message may also be specified.
  • No Vendor Logos: Your brand's logo is generally not allowed on a 'Lowe's Deals' header. The promotion is the star of the show.

The Process

  1. Confirm with Merchant: First, confirm that your product is officially part of the promotion.
  2. Receive the Template: Your Lowe's contact will provide you with the high-resolution digital template file for the header.
  3. Add Your Deal: You will add your specific pricing or offer into the designated area of the template.
  4. Submit for Approval: Before you print thousands of headers, you must submit your final artwork back to Lowe's for approval.

This is a strict process, but it's for a good reason. The consistency of the 'Lowe's Deals' branding is what makes it so effective.

How do you create headers for 'Low Price' or 'Bulk Savings' promotions?

Need to communicate a great price or bulk discount? Similar to other promotions, Lowe's has specific header formats for 'Low Price' and 'Bulk Savings' messages.

Headers for 'Low Price' or 'Bulk Savings' use official Lowe's templates. 'Low Price' often uses a red theme, while 'Bulk Savings' might use a different design. You must use the approved artwork.

A header with a red 'Low Price' graphic and another with a 'Bulk Savings' message.

Just like the 'Lowe's Deals' program, other pricing-focused promotions have their own unique and standardized branding. This helps customers quickly understand the type of value being offered. Using your own custom design to shout "Low Price!" will get your display rejected. You must use the official assets provided by the retailer.

'Low Price' Headers

This message is used to signal a consistently low, everyday price on an item. It builds trust with the customer that they are getting a good deal.

  • Branding: Often uses a bold, red color scheme, which is a classic retail color for "value" or "sale."
  • Messaging: Features the official "Low Price" lockup. The template will have a space for you to insert the specific item's price.
  • Vendor Logo: Your brand logo is typically not allowed on these headers. The focus is entirely on the price promise.

'Bulk Savings' Headers

This is for products where buying a larger quantity or a full case offers a better per-unit price. This is common for items like contractor bags, bottled water, or cleaning supplies.

  • Branding: The design for this can vary, but it will be a standard template. It might feature graphics that suggest volume, like stacks of boxes or shopping carts.
  • Messaging: The header needs to clearly communicate the bulk offer. For example: "Buy a Case and Save!" or "$X.XX Each When You Buy 3." The template will guide you on where to put this information.
  • Clarity is Key: The offer must be simple and easy to understand. A confusing bulk offer will be ignored.

Just as with any other official Lowe's promotion, the process is to get the template from your merchant, add your specific information in the designated areas, and submit it for final approval before production.

What are some common questions about headers and bases?

Still have some questions about the most fundamental parts of your display? Let's answer some of the most common questions we get about headers and bases for Lowe's displays.

Common questions involve material choices, whether custom header shapes are allowed, and how to attach the header. The base must be strong corrugated, and headers must fit within the total 52-inch height.

A person looking at a display with a question mark thought bubble.

Designing a display for a major retailer like Lowe's can bring up a lot of small but important questions. Getting these details right is the difference between a smooth launch and a frustrating rejection. Here are answers to some of the questions we hear all the time from our clients.

Header & Base FAQs

Question Answer
What material should the base be made of? The base must be made of corrugated cardboard, strong enough to support the full weight of your product. For most sidestacks, this means a B/C double-wall board with an ECT rating of at least 44. Flimsy materials like chipboard are not allowed for structural components.
Can I create a custom die-cut shape for my header? Yes, you can! As long as the custom-shaped header does not exceed the maximum width of the display and stays within the total 52-inch height limit, you can get creative. Die-cut headers that follow the shape of your logo or product can be very eye-catching.
How is the header attached to the display? The header is typically attached using one of two methods: <br>1. Tabs and Slots: The header has tabs that slide into slots on the main display body. <br>2. Separate Back Supports: Two "easel" like supports are attached to the back of the header, which then slide into the display. We design this to be secure so the header doesn't fall off.
Can I print on the inside of the display? Yes, you can print on the inside walls or on the shelf surfaces. This is a great way to add branding or instructions. However, remember that as product is removed, more of the interior will be visible, so a plain white interior can start to look empty. Printing a color or pattern inside can keep the display looking good even when it's half-empty.

How do we incorporate the 'Lowe's Celebrates 250' logo on headers?

Heard about the special 'Lowe's Celebrates 250' event for 2026? If your display is part of this one-year-only celebration, there are unique branding requirements for your header.

For the 2026 'Lowe's Celebrates 250' event, all participating displays must feature the official event logo on their header. This logo is typically placed in a designated corner of the header, separate from your own branding.

A display header showing a brand logo and a special anniversary logo in the corner.

Disclaimer: The 'Lowe's Celebrates 250' event is a fictional example for this guide. Always refer to the official Lowe's supplier portal for current event guidelines.

When a retailer has a major anniversary, they often include their suppliers in the celebration. For this hypothetical 250th anniversary, Lowe's would want to create a cohesive, celebratory feel throughout the store. This means that if you are a participating vendor, you will be required to add their special anniversary logo to your display.

Header Design with the '250' Logo

This is a co-branding situation, but with Lowe's itself. Your brand is still the primary focus, but you must include their event branding as well.

  1. Obtain the Official Logo: Your Lowe's Merchant will provide the official 'Lowe's Celebrates 250' logo file. It will come with a guide that specifies the exact size, colors, and placement.
  2. Placement: The event logo is usually placed in one of the top corners of the header (e.g., the top-right corner). It should be prominent enough to be seen, but it should not overpower your own brand logo, which would remain in its primary position (usually centered).
  3. Clear Space: The guidelines will require a certain amount of "clear space" around the anniversary logo to ensure it stands out and isn't crowded by other graphics.
  4. Approval is Mandatory: You must submit your header design with the '250' logo for approval before you go to print. They will be very strict about the correct usage of their event logo.

This is a great opportunity to show that your brand is a strong partner with Lowe's, and participating in the celebration can lead to better display placement and more attention from shoppers.

What are the base requirements for the 'Lowe's Celebrates 250' event?

Participating in the 'Lowe's Celebrates 250' event in 2026? The branding requirements extend beyond the header and include specific rules for the base of your display.

For the 'Lowe's Celebrates 250' event, the base of your display may be required to feature a specific branding element, such as a color band or a repeating logo pattern, to tie into the store-wide theme.

The base of a display featuring a special anniversary graphic element.

Disclaimer: The 'Lowe's Celebrates 250' event is a fictional example for this guide. Always refer to the official Lowe's supplier portal for current event guidelines.

To create a fully immersive experience for the anniversary celebration, Lowe's would want the event branding to carry all the way down to the base of the display. This ensures that even from a distance, or as products are shopped down, the celebratory theme is still visible. This is a step beyond a normal branded display.

Designing the Base for the '250' Event

The requirements for the base would be detailed in the event's supplier guide provided by your Lowe's Merchant. Here are some likely possibilities:

Base Element Description Purpose
Anniversary Color Band You might be required to add a horizontal band of color (e.g., a specific blue or silver) around the top or bottom of your display base. This creates a strong, consistent visual line that connects all participating displays down an aisle.
Repeating Logo Pattern The guide might require you to use a subtle, repeating pattern of the '250' logo as the background for your base design. This integrates the event branding in a more textural way, without overpowering your own brand color.
Corner Logo Placement Similar to the header, you may be required to place the '250' logo on the front-facing corners of the base. This ensures the event logo is visible even if the center of the base is obscured by shopping carts.

Your brand's primary color and logo would still be the main features of the base, but you would need to incorporate these additional elements as specified. It's a way of layering the event branding onto your own. As always, you must get final artwork approval from Lowe's before producing the displays.

How can you highlight 'Made in the USA' on your Lowe's display?

Is your product made in the USA? This is a powerful selling point for many Lowe's customers, and your display is the perfect place to highlight it.

You can highlight a 'Made in the USA' claim by using an official logo or a clear statement on your header and base. The claim must be legally compliant and placed where it is easy for customers to see.

A display header featuring a 'Made in the USA' logo.

For many shoppers, a "Made in the USA" label is a mark of quality, durability, and a way to support the local economy. If your product qualifies, you should absolutely be advertising it on your retail display. It can be a key differentiator that makes a customer choose your product over a competitor's. However, you must do it correctly.

Legal Compliance is #1

Before you print anything, you must ensure your product meets the legal standards for a "Made in the USA" claim as defined by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Generally, this means that "all or virtually all" of the product is made in the United States. Misrepresenting your product's origin can lead to serious legal trouble.

Designing 'Made in the USA' on Your Display

Once you've confirmed your claim is legitimate, here's how to feature it effectively:

Placement Best Practices
Header This is the most prominent location. Place an official 'Made in the USA' logo (there are several common designs) near your brand logo. It should be large enough to be legible but secondary to your main branding.
Base You can also add the logo or a simple text statement like "Proudly Made in the USA" on the base of the display. This reinforces the message.
Shelves or Bins For displays


  1. Branded displays allow you to use your logo and colors, enhancing brand recognition at the point of purchase.

  2. Understanding the specific requirements for Lowe's sidestack displays can help ensure your product is accepted and effectively showcased in stores.

  3. Consulting with a Lowe's Merchant ensures you choose the right display type for your product, avoiding rejection.

  4. Standard sizes ensure a clean, organized shopping experience and facilitate easier placement and movement by store staff.

  5. Meeting the 52-inch height requirement is crucial for compliance and ensuring accessibility for customers.

  6. A pallet wrap/skirt enhances the display's appearance, providing a clean, branded look from top to bottom.

  7. Half pallet displays offer more space for showcasing products, requiring adherence to specific guidelines for approval.

  8. Displaying multiple related SKUs encourages customers to buy multiple items, enhancing sales opportunities.

  9. Displaying bulk quantities communicates value and makes it easy for customers to grab and go, boosting sales.

  10. Displays for heavy items must be sturdy and easy to move, ensuring safety and convenience for both staff and customers.

  11. Full pallet displays make a significant impact, requiring careful design to meet Lowe's guidelines and ensure shopper safety.

  12. Shoppability ensures customers can easily access products, maintaining display stability and attractiveness.

  13. Efficient assembly and logistics streamline the process, reducing costs and ensuring timely delivery to stores.

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