When planning a Dry January program, a POP display is the fastest way to help shoppers find your non-alc product.

If you want your displays on the floor by January 1, plan to start no later than late September. Lead times move with materials, region, capacity, and approvals. Use this checklist to pressure-test your plan before you order.

When to Start (Work Backward From Jan 1)

Assume product needs to arrive by mid-December so stores can receive and set.

• China (8–12 weeks): kick off early September. Latest safe start is late September.
• Mexico (6–8 weeks): kick off late September. Latest safe start is early October.
• U.S. (4–6 weeks): kick off mid October. Latest safe start is late October.

If your spec includes lighting, heavy metal, or complex acrylic, start earlier to keep options open.

Need a little help? You can reach us at info@concorddisplays.com, 626.824.3776  or fill out this form!

Timeline at a Glance

• September: kickoff and brief (earlier if possible)
• Early October: renderings and approvals
• Mid October: lock materials; prototype if needed
• Late Oct to early Nov: approve prototype; place production PO
• November: production and pack plan final
• Early to mid December: ship
• Mid to late December: receive and set for January 1

1) Brief and Kickoff

1. Retailers, in-store location, footprint, capacity per facing confirmed
2. Budget set; primary constraint chosen (speed, cost, or flexibility)
3. One decision maker named with a backup
4. If comparing regions, one RFQ with the same spec for U.S., Mexico, and China
5. Target dates mapped backward from January 1

2) Renderings

1. First read is clear in three seconds
2. Load and restock paths are simple
3. Store footprint and height limits respected
4. Graphics sized to real print specs
5. Feedback cadence set to 24–48 hours per round

3) Materials and Prototype

1. Materials and finish selected for timeline and budget
2. Prototype ordered if the design is new or critical
3. Assembly under 10 minutes with common tools or no tools
4. No wobble, no sharp edges, graphics aligned
5. Pack plan protects corners and mounting points

4) Approve Prototype and Place PO

1. Changes documented in bullets with filenames noted
2. Final prototype approved in writing
3. Production PO placed with quantities by lane or door
4. Retail labeling and instruction needs confirmed

5) Production

1. QC photos captured and dated by step
2. Final packing spec signed off
3. If time is tight, plan split shipments or mixed modes
4. Spare hardware and graphics included per carton plan

6) Shipping

1. Mode chosen early: truck, ocean, air, or mix
2. Carrier booked before the line finishes
3. Carton labels match retailer requirements
4. Delivery windows reserved with DC, 3PL, or stores

7) Receive and Set

1. Instructions match tools stores already have
2. Graphics and hardware bag clearly labeled
3. Store set window confirmed and staffed
4. Contact for issues listed on the instruction sheet

Region Notes

• U.S.: best for small runs and speed; higher unit cost
• Mexico: balanced timelines and value; some specialty limits
• China: strong for complex builds and larger buys; longer transit

We offer free global manufacturing comparisons with every quote. We’ll break down your options side-by-side across Mexico, the U.S., China. When you have the information you need, it’s a lot easier to make a confident decision for your business. You can reach us at info@concorddisplays.com, 626.824.3776  or fill out this form!

Material Choices That Affect Time

• Faster: MDF with print, simple powder coat, standard fasteners, no electrical
• Slower: heavy metal fabrication, custom lighting, complex acrylic, bespoke hardware

Common Delays to Avoid

• Scope changes after prototype approval
• Untested lighting or power needs
• Material swaps without re-validation
• Retailer approvals not on the calendar
• Freight booked after production finishes

If You Are Starting Late

Pick one or two moves, not five.

• Pilot a small U.S. or Mexico run for key doors in January and scale in February if needed
• Air a small tranche to key doors and ocean the balance
• Simplify the spec: remove lighting, choose faster finishes, reduce unique parts
• Use a graphics kit on a simple base to move faster

Dry January launches go well when dates are clear and decisions are quick. If you would like a straightforward plan for your display, schedule time with us to talk through needs, timing, and the best region to build.

You can reach us at info@concorddisplays.com, 626.824.3776  or fill out this form!

About Concord Displays

Concord Displays is your single-source partner for in-store merchandising, POP displays and retail signage. We have thirty years of exceeding client expectations by delivering impactful POP display design and manufacturing service at a surprisingly affordable price.