Poster Holders: Types, Styles & Display Tips
When it comes to displaying your poster, you want to show it off at its best and protect it from dust and moisture, whilst not detracting from the contents you are exhibiting. The artwork you are displaying may be a promotional message for your business or it may be a movie poster of your favourite film but either way, you will want the materials to be clear and professional.
They come in a variety of styles, from pavement signs to wall mounted snap frames, as well as a variety of sizes from A4 to A0. This means that whatever you are looking to display, there will be a product for you.
In this buying guide, we will go through the different poster holder types on the market and what to look for so that you can find the right product for you or your business.
1. Pavement Signs
Pavements signs are a great way to promote an offer or raise interest in your business, especially if you are not situated directly on the main road or have a business that you run from your home such as a beauty salon or sports therapy centre.
Passers-by can be tempted inside by an eye-catching poster display that could lead to increased sales and awareness. Artwork is quick and easy to replace as most will feature a snap frame mechanism or magnetic clip system.
Most pavement signs are not designed to be left outside permanently and should be brought in at night and during adverse weather conditions.
For signs that can withstand the winters blustery weather, a windproof pavement sign that can be filled with either sand or water to weigh it down will be the best solution.
2. Snap Frames
When it comes to displaying your poster, there is no easier option than a snap frame. Once mounted to the wall, the sides simply need to be popped open to replace the literature inside.
They are lightweight and sleek, coming with either mitred or chrome rounded corners. They come in a variety of sizes from A6, all the way up to quad posters at a massive 30 x 40 inches.
Perfect for: Home or business use, you can find out more about snap frames here.
3. Poster Cases
Poster cases are ideal for use in public areas with heavy footfall or sites that may be vulnerable to damage as they are lockable and tamperproof.
They are also suited to both indoor and outdoor use, as the frame is water resistant and boxes your literature inside to protect it from the elements.
Please be aware that they are not water-tight as the edges are not fully sealed.
Perfect for: use at shopping centres, stadiums and service stations, they keep the artwork safe and tidy so you can display your poster with pride.
4. Floor Standing Poster Display Stands
These are a great item for restaurants, hotels and exhibition stands. You can present valuable information, like your menu or services, to customers passing by.
Floor-standing poster stands can be easily repositioned to make sure they get the most visibility, and they can usually be presented in either landscape or portrait.
If your artwork orientation changes, you can simply rotate the display panel. The artwork can be updated quickly, as many floor-standing display stands will feature a front loading snap frame mechanism. These are most commonly found in A4 and A3 sizes.
5. Wall Mounted Acrylic Poster Display
Perfect for displaying meeting room details and health and safety notices, wall-mounted acrylic poster holders are easy to update as they are usually secured with nodules that can be undone without any tools.
Once unscrewed, the front panel can be removed to change the poster inside. They are mostly made from crystal clear acrylic, which allows the materials inside to be displayed without distraction and with no frame, it creates the impression that they are floating.
To minimise glare and reflections on your poster displays, especially near windows or under strong lighting, opt for holders with anti-glare PVC covers — they improve readability and make your visuals pop without distractions.
Buying Considerations
FAQ
1. Why do I need a poster holder?
Poster holders not only keep your artwork safe from damage by individuals, but they also protect it from dust, dirt and water showers. They present your materials in a professional manner and will provide a smart image of you and your business. They make changes to promotions or menus simple and time-efficient for staff, as most feature front-loading systems.
2. What poster holder style is right for me?
This will largely come down to the space you are aiming to place it in. If you are tight on space, a wall mounted poster holder will be best as it won’t clutter the floor areas. If you are aiming to grab people’s attention and are able to safely place one outside, a floor-standing poster holder or pavement sign is a great solution for increasing awareness and sales. If you are simply looking to present your posters in a smart and sleek way, in the home or at work, snap frames are great value for money and really add to the aesthetics of a space.
3. Can I place a pavement sign anywhere?
Unfortunately not, every council will have different rules, so always check with them before purchasing and definitely before placing outside. To prevent accidents, always make sure that your sign is appropriate for the size of the path. For very small pavements, an A3 sign will be large enough to get your message across without preventing people walking past. If the weather is particularly bad and your pavement sign doesn’t have a weighted base, always bring it inside. Make sure your pavement sign is kept in good condition; if the legs or edges become damaged, make sure to fix them or buy a replacement to prevent accidents.
4. How do I make the most of my poster holder?
Always keep your poster holder in good condition. Regular dusting and wiping with a damp cloth will keep them clean and tidy. Make sure your poster holder is in the optimum position. If you are able to make use of a freestanding item, you can reposition the item depending on the movement of people to get the best visibility. For those who would be making use of a wall or ceiling-mounted item in a commercial setting, make sure to consider where the highest footfall is before hanging. If the wall mounted item is for the home, think about placing the item opposite entrances and near seating areas to add to the aesthetics of the room.
Summary: How to Choose the Right Poster Display
Not sure which poster holder works best for you? These key factors will help you decide:
1. Location - Indoors or outdoors? High traffic or behind-the-scenes? Match your holder to your environment for the best impact.
2. Size - Consider the format of your posters — A3 and A4 for menus and directories, A0 or A1 for large promotional graphics.
3. Accessibility - Will you be changing posters often? Snap frames and front-loading displays make updates quick and easy.
4. Security - For public or outdoor areas, opt for lockable poster cases to prevent tampering and protect your content.
When you consider these points, you’ll find a display solution that enhances your setting and keeps your materials looking their best.
Find Your Perfect Poster Holder Today
Looking for the best way to display posters professionally while keeping them safe and visible? Whether you’re managing a retail space, organising a hotel lobby, or elevating your home office, the right poster holder will protect your message and make sure it gets noticed. Choose a style that fits your location, layout, and display goals.
Browse Poster Holders by Type
Pavement Signs - Perfect for attracting attention and footfall from outside your premises.
Snap Frames - Sleek, easy-to-update wall-mounted displays in a wide range of sizes.
Poster Cases - Lockable and weather-resistant for secure indoor and outdoor use.
Floor Standing Poster Stands -Great for reception areas, exhibitions, and restaurant entrances.
Explore More Buying Guides
Leaflet and Brochure Holder Buying Guide
The Top 5 Display Cabinets in the UK: A 2025 Buyer's Guide to Choosing the Right One for You
Poster Holder Buying Guide UK (2025) – Find the Best Type for You
View our full range at Displaysense
