It may not seem like it, but retail store environments can look like war zones if left unattended for long periods of time or not designed to accommodate how people shop. Whether it’s shelf talkers, channel strips, or counter cards; designing graphics for durability is one of the key pillars to reducing your printing costs. It needs to stand up to the toughest of tests.
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better material than rigid vinyl. Here’s more on what makes rigid vinyl an ideal substrate that will enable you to make your statement so it truly resonates by virtue of its strength, stability and versatility.
What is rigid vinyl?
Rigid vinyl is a durable, long-lasting plastic made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride). It’s commonly used for displays like aisle signage or counter cards because it holds its shape and stands up to wear.
Rigid in performance – not appearance
While the term “rigid” is appropriate, given the material’s strength and resistance to degradation, it’s a bit of a misnomer. For print applications, the substrate itself is rather flexible in thin gauges, the most common being 0.010, 0.015 and 0.020. This enables rigid vinyl to be used in more environments as it has superior impact resistance, processes easily, and resists curling.
Rigid PVC is commonly confused with polystyrene. It’s extremely difficult to determine the difference but rigid PVC processes easier, is more durable, and is more opaque than the styrene counterpart. For exterior applications, rigid vinyl resists cracking in cold applications. Additionally, rigid vinyl impresses in outdoor environments, thanks to its resistance to ultraviolet rays. While most PVC signs come in clear or off-white, this material can effectively withstand the harshness of the sun’s rays so richer colors won’t run or fade, even after extended use.
When is rigid vinyl best used?
Rigid vinyl is ideal for small-format signage and display parts that need to hold their shape, resist damage, or endure frequent handling. Common retail and commercial uses include:
- Shelf talkers and wobblers – These dangle to attract attention but are vulnerable to damage if made from less durable materials. Rigid vinyl holds up better in high-traffic shelving environments.
- Product dividers – Ideal for organizing merchandise on shelves.
- Price tags – Especially when they need to be inserted and removed frequently.
- Hanging signs – Offers sturdiness while maintaining a clean, professional appearance.
- Counter cards and point-of-purchase displays – Durable enough for constant exposure.
- Nameplates and tags – Great for labels that need to stay flat and legible.
Did you know that there are clear printable PVC options also? Hopkins Printing prints many small format parts on clear semi rigid vinyl, which when we apply adhesive to the backside turns them into decals or floor graphics. The characteristics of rigid vinyl makes these extremely durable.
Sustainability considerations
Although rigid vinyl is a plastic material, it offers benefits that can align with sustainability goals:
- Recyclability: Rigid PVC can often be recycled, depending on local recycling facilities and regulations. Customers interested in end-of-life disposal should check with their local recycling center.
- Longevity = Less Waste: Because rigid vinyl is highly durable and long-lasting, it reduces the need for frequent replacements—resulting in less material waste over time.
- Custom sizing: Hopkins Printing can help optimize sheet usage and minimize offcuts, further reducing material waste.
If sustainability is a key concern for your brand, we can guide you through alternative materials or recommend the best way to use rigid vinyl with minimal environmental impact.
What to expect at Hopkins Printing
At Hopkins Printing, if you have a product and aren’t sure what material to use we’ll give you our opinion on what may be best to consider. Every job is different and rigid vinyl is one of dozens of options available. What we recommend will largely depend on what you’d like to get out of your signs, how long they’ll be in place and how you intend to use them, specifically whether they’ll be for indoor or outdoor use.
Hopkins Printing is your signage headquarters for materials that are custom designed with your intended use in mind. Contact Hopkins Printing today for a free consultation on the best material for your needs.
