As Australian businesses face rising costs and growing pressure to go green, choosing the right retail displays—cardboard or plastic—is no longer just about aesthetics. It’s about saving money and staying competitive. But which option delivers better long-term value for your business?
In this guide, we’ll compare cardboard and plastic displays head-to-head, focusing on upfront costs, durability, environmental penalties, and how your choice impacts customer loyalty. Let’s dive in!
The Cost Showdown: Cardboard vs Plastic
1. Upfront Costs: What’s Cheaper?
- Plastic Displays: While plastic might seem cheaper at first glance (think mass-produced generic units), custom designs can get pricey fast. Plastic molds alone cost 5,000–15,000 AUD, making small orders impractical.
- Cardboard Displays: Custom cardboard displays start at 50–300 AUD per unit, depending on size and complexity. No molds are needed, making them perfect for small businesses or seasonal campaigns.
Winner for Budget-Conscious Aussies: Cardboard.
2. Hidden Costs You Might Miss
- Durability: Plastic lasts longer, but if it cracks or fades, replacements add up. Cardboard is lighter and easier to refresh (recycle and reorder!).
- Shipping: Cardboard’s lightweight design slashes freight costs. Sending a pallet of plastic displays from Sydney to Perth? Expect to pay 2–3x more than cardboard.
- Storage: Cardboard displays often fold flat, saving warehouse space. Plastic units? They’ll hog room year-round.
Pro Tip: For short-term promotions (like Christmas or EOFY sales), cardboard’s reorder flexibility beats plastic’s “one-size-fits-all” approach.
3. Environmental Costs: Landfill Taxes & Brand Reputation
Australia’s landfill levies are rising fast:
- NSW: $163.20 per tonne
- VIC: $129.27 per tonne
- QLD: $100+ per tonne
Plastic displays (especially non-recycled types) often end up in landfills, costing you twice: once in disposal fees and again in lost eco-conscious customers.
Meanwhile, 95% of cardboard displays are recycled in Australia, avoiding landfill taxes. Besides, 73% of Aussies prefer sustainable packaging brands (Source: Nielsen 2023).
Winner for Long-Term Savings: Cardboard.
Real-World Example: A Sydney Café’s Switch to Cardboard
The Problem: A café in Bondi used plastic menu stands but noticed they cracked in the sun and looked “cheap” to eco-friendly customers.
The Solution: They swapped to custom cardboard menu displays with a recycled finish.
The Result:
- Saved AUD 1,200/year on replacements and freight.
- 25% increase in social media tags from customers praising their sustainability efforts.
- Avoided $300+ in annual landfill fees.
“But What About Durability?”
Yes, plastic survives spills and rain—but how often do your displays face monsoons? Cardboard holds up perfectly for most indoor retail spaces (think boutiques, pharmacies, or counter displays). Modern corrugated cardboard can even handle light moisture!
Pro Tip: Opt for water-resistant cardboard coatings for outdoor markets or trade shows (still cheaper than plastic).
The Compliance Factor: Australia’s Plastic Bans
By 2025, all Australian states aim to phase out single-use plastics. While commercial displays aren’t banned yet, getting ahead of regulations means:
- No surprise costs to redesign displays later.
- Your brand stays aligned with government sustainability incentives.
The Verdict: When to Choose Cardboard or Plastic
- Pick Cardboard If:
- You’re a small business or startup.
- You value easy customization (think seasonal themes or local collaborations).
- You want to avoid landfill fees and attract eco-aware customers.
- Pick Plastic If:
- You need ultra-durable displays for harsh outdoor conditions.
- You’re ordering 10,000+ generic units (economies of scale might tip the balance).
Ready to Save Money and the Planet? Get in touch today!
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q: “Is cardboard really strong enough for heavy products?”
A: Absolutely! With proper design, corrugated cardboard can hold up to 30kg. Ask us about reinforced layers.
Q: “Can I recycle plastic displays in Australia?”
A: Only 14% of plastic is recycled here. Most end up in landfills—cardboard is a safer bet.
Q: “How do I convince my boss to switch to cardboard?”
A: Share this blog! Highlight the tax savings, customer appeal, and compliance benefits.
