Clipboards

Clipboards (display clipboards, menu clipboards) are a low-cost, high-impact way to put offers, menus, QR codes and sign-up sheets directly in customers’ hands—at the counter, in the queue, or on the table. They’re tidy, brandable, and update in seconds: swap the sheet and you’re live.

Why they’re convenient

• Ultra-fast updates. Print a one-pager and clip—no frames to open, no tools. Hospitality pros even use clipboards for menu cards specifically because they’re easy to swap during dayparts. Toast POS

• Move them where decisions happen. Because they’re handheld, staff can present the message at the exact moment of choice—while guests queue, browse, or sit down.

• Proof that extra signage pays. On-premise signage studies show that adding one additional sign correlates with an average 4.75% increase in annual sales—clipboards are a fast, flexible way to add that extra “silent salesperson.” images.ebsco.com

• Positive business impact. Broader research on improving on-premise signage reports increases in sales, transactions and profits (roughly ~10% on average among businesses that upgraded). The Signage Foundation

• People act on what they see. In consumer surveys, 76% of shoppers say they’ve entered a store because of its signage, and 68% made a purchase after a sign caught their eye—the same visual nudge your clipboard can deliver up close. FedEx Newsroomfederalheath.com

How to use clipboards as a point-of-sale tool

1. Keep it one-screen simple. Aim for: bold headline (3–5 words) → one benefit → clear price/CTA.

2. Segment by moment. Prepare quick-swap sheets for Queue, Counter, and Table use (e.g., bundles for queues, add-ons at the till, desserts at the table).

3. Feature high-margin items. Starters, sides, desserts, signature drinks—clipboards keep these prompts visible without clutter.

4. Collect leads & reviews. Use a clipboard for loyalty sign-ups or a QR to leave a review; staff can present it right after payment.

5. Daypart the message. Swap breakfast → lunch → evening in seconds; store spares under the counter. (Menu-card clipboards are great for this.) Toast POS

6. Place with purpose. Hand to waiting guests, prop at eye level in the queue, or rest in a stand at the bar—wherever attention is highest.

Design tips that convert

• Readable at a glance: big headline, generous spacing, minimal copy.

• Hierarchy with weight, not colour: use one accent to draw the eye to the price or offer.

• Add a micro-image or icon: one visual anchor increases scan-ability.

• Always include a next step: “Order here”, “Ask us to add”, “Scan to join”.

Care & operations

• Standardise the layout (logo top, headline, price/CTA bottom) so staff can assemble in seconds.

• Keep a flat file of laminated “evergreen” sheets for rainy days and peak hours.

• Train staff to present the clipboard with a one-line script (“Today’s combo saves 20%—interested?”) to turn the sign into a conversation.