Top 7 NACS Questions (And How We Answered Them)

If there was a theme to our conversations with retailers at the NACS Show, it was this: Everyone is looking for smarter, faster ways to modernize their stores without disrupting daily operations. 

Whether the goal is to pilot electronic shelf labels (ESLs), simplify resets, or make retail display hardware more durable, Kinter’s display solutions sparked a lot of conversation. 

“The most common question at NACS  wasn’t about technology, it was about workflow. Retailers want hardware that makes their stores easier to run, not harder. Our job is to engineer fixtures that make that shift possible.” - Ryan Masek, Director of Engineering.

For those who couldn’t make it, or who want a recap of what everyone was asking, here are the top seven questions we heard on the show floor and how we answered them.

1. Can we pilot ESLs without disrupting store ops?

Yes, absolutely. ESL pilots don’t have to interrupt store flow or take fixtures offline. Using adjustable rails, clips, and retrofit holders, teams can install a few test sections without removing a single shelf.

ESL display hardware designed for easy swaps and secure alignment keeps tags straight through resets and cleaning. The goal is to learn what works without losing uptime. 

A successful ESL pilot requires several elements. Learn more about the difference between traditional and ESL shelf labels and shelf label holders to help make the right choices for your retail environment.

2. Should we be concerned about display hardware lead times, tariffs, and supply risk?

Supply stability was on everyone’s mind at NACS. Kinter designs and stocks much of its product line domestically, which shortens lead times and limits tariff exposure.

We recommend early collaboration with your retail display hardware manufacturer to help ensure continuity and cost control. For example, at Kinter, our flexible sourcing and in-house engineering keep products flowing even when global logistics slow down. 

“Most people think lead time is only about shipping time, but we also think about it in terms of readiness. By engineering and stocking locally, we give retailers control when global markets shift unexpectedly.” - Ryan Masek.

Kinter takes a proactive approach to the tariff and supply chain challenges currently impacting our industry. Learn more about how we are navigating this important issue.

3. Do we need new fixtures for ESLs or can we retrofit?

You can almost always keep your existing shelving. ESLs are typically retrofitted. Rails, clips, adhesives, or suction mounts can be used to affix ESLs to standard grocery fixtures, from gondolas and wire shelves to even glass cooler doors. This can all be completed without replacing the fixture itself. 

“Retrofitting is where most stores start, but it’s also where the smartest lessons happen. When you see how ESLs perform on existing fixtures, it becomes clear where custom hardware can make upkeep faster and extend the life of the install.” - Ryan Masek.

Kinter designs and manufactures ESL holders compatible across major brands and has deployed solutions that fit digital label technology in all store layout positions. 

Where you’ll want custom hardware is in tougher zones, such as low shelves, endcaps, and cooler aisles. Hinge rails, extra bindings, and impact covers protect tags and speed service. In these tougher zones, Kinter provides purpose-built hardware designed to keep tags secure, visible, and easy to service.

4. How do we prevent tag theft, tampering, and pop-offs?

Security was a major topic at NACS this year, especially when it came to protecting investments made in ESLs. 

Kinter’s locking rails and concealed clip systems keep labels tight to the fixture so they can’t be pried loose without tools. Impact covers and enclosed holders also reduce tampering, especially in high-traffic or late-night zones. Combining these features creates a strong deterrent against pop-offs.

Read our case study on how we helped a convenience store chain mitigate damage with a customized ESL holder solution.

5. Will rails or add-ons block prices, barcodes, or fail ADA checks?

Placement and angle matter just as much as hardware type. Kinter’s rails are designed to hold tags flush, keeping prices legible and barcodes scannable. Spacing rails correctly ensures ADA height and angle compliance while avoiding glare. In high-turn zones, consistent placement across aisles helps both customers and staff scan quickly. 

“ADA compliance may be regulated, but the focus should always be on the customers. When pricing and labels are readable from any height or angle, stores become easier to navigate for every shopper.”- Ryan Masek.

The right display hardware maintains shopability in every aisle, but it also helps minimize shrinkage. Read our blog post for some steps you can take to improve your retail environment.

6. How do we keep store resets fast in small footprints?

C-stores and urban retailers face constant resets in tight spaces. Modular rails, clip-on hooks, and quick-release sign holders make the process faster. By grouping fixtures into simple “swap zones,” staff can update planograms or seasonal sets in minutes. Clean front profiles keep everything aligned and professional, even in crowded aisles.

“In small stores, every reset is a choreography. With a little planning and hardware that installs and removes in seconds, teams can refresh an entire aisle before the next rush hits.” - Ryan Masek.

Check out our six tips to optimize small-space merchandising.

7. What’s the real labor impact? Do ESLs actually save time?

Yes, when the proper hardware supports them. ESLs cut hours spent on manual price changes, but the savings multiply when holders are easy to service.

Hinged or slide-in rails allow fast updates, and consistent mounting across fixtures reduces training time. Staff can focus on stocking, cleaning, and customer service instead of hunting for price errors.

Get more details on how ESLs reduce labor costs in installation and ongoing use in our shelf label guide. 

Why Choose Kinter?

Kinter’s strength lies in understanding how real stores operate. Every solution we offer is built to install fast, last long, and make daily work easier. Through our Design and Engineering Lab and broad inventory, retailers can test, prototype, and scale solutions with confidence.

Whether you’re planning your first ESL rollout or refining a multi-store fixture program, Kinter helps bridge design, durability, and supply.

For retailers who stopped by at NACS, thanks for the great conversations. For those who couldn’t make it, let’s start a conversation. Contact us today.