Patent Publication Number: US-8123052-B2

Title: Display apparatus and method

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/494,538, filed Jun. 30, 2009 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,997,430, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in this application. 
    
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     (Not Applicable) 
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     This disclosure relates to a display apparatus for displaying products, for example, in a retail store environment. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Display fixtures can be used in retail stores or other environments to present various products to consumers. The display fixtures may retain the product packages therein in view of the consumers. For example, cosmetics, greeting cards, fashion accessories, magazines, and other products may be displayed in trays or shelves of a designated display fixture. Such a display fixture can be arranged along an aisle in a store so that consumers walking by the display fixture can readily grasp selected products. 
     Some display fixtures can include product display shelves for retaining and displaying a variety of products to consumers. The shelves can be arranged along a store aisle to allow a consumer to view and select from among the products retained by the display shelves. For example, product display shelves can be used in pharmacy and cosmetic sections to retain various pharmaceutical or cosmetic products. The shelves allow a consumer to view packages of pharmaceutical or cosmetic products arranged in rows or stacks. 
     In some circumstances, shelves on a product display fixture can be positioned at or above the eye-level height of the average consumer, thereby restricting some consumers&#39; accessibility and visibility of products supported by the shelves. When the consumer&#39;s ability to view a product or set of products is restricted by the height of a shelf, the consumer may be unable to locate and purchase a desired product retained by the shelf. In some circumstances, the height of a display fixture is taller than the average consumer. This can restrict the visibility area of a consumer to a single shopping aisle defined by the display fixture and prevent consumers from being able to view other consumers in other shopping aisles and products retained by display fixtures in other shopping aisles. 
     Some stores provide hanging signage to help consumers navigate between the various aisles or departments of the store. Such ceiling-mounted signage can indicate groups of products that are located in various aisles or areas of a store, thereby assisting consumers in navigating through the store. For example, a hanging sign may indicate that a particular area of the store is the home furnishings area. As another example, a hanging sign may indicate that an aisle includes particular pharmaceutical products. In some instances, navigation signage can be supported by or extend from an endcap of a display fixture. Endcaps can be positioned at the end of a store aisle and may include a particular set of products on display. Signage supported by or extending from an endcap can indicate products or groups of products located within a particular store aisle to allow consumers to easily navigate a store and readily locate a desired product. 
     Other signage relating to product or brand information may also be hung from the ceiling or mounted on walls. The display fixtures may include one or more signs that describe the type of products retained by the display fixture or describe various uses for products retained by the display fixture. The signage can also display other information relating to products, such as features of the product or price information. Such display signs may be mounted so that a consumer may view the message from a distance. For example, the display sign may be hung from an area of the ceiling near the display fixture while the products are separately retained on the shelves of the display fixture. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Some embodiments of a product display apparatus may include a plurality of product shelves and a product display sign coupled to a support arm in an elevated position above the product shelves so as to define a viewing gap at a selected height. The viewing gap can provide consumers with see-through visibility toward an adjacent aisle, thereby providing an opportunity to view other consumers, products, and displays in adjacent aisles. The support arm that retains the product display sign may also receive one or more display containers in a position forward of the display sign and above the product shelves. Such a configuration may thereby create a three-dimensional exhibit to display one or more selected products above the product shelves in a manner that can attract the attention of consumers. 
     In some embodiments, a product display apparatus may include a plurality of product display shelves extending in a generally horizontal direction between opposing divider walls and positioned forward of a rear wall. Each of the product display shelves may define an upper surface to support a plurality of products. The apparatus may also include an elevated signage portion mounted above the plurality of product display shelves. The elevated signage portion may include a horizontal support arm that is spaced above an upper edge of the rear wall. The horizontal support arm may define a plurality of channels that each extend in the generally horizontal direction. The apparatus may also include a signage display panel extending substantially the entire distance between the opposing divider walls and releasably engaged with one of the channels of the horizontal support arm so that an image-bearing surface of the signage display panel is retained in a generally vertical orientation. The apparatus may further include a display container toollessly mounted to one of the channels of the horizontal support arm and retained in a position above the product display shelves and forward of the image-bearing surface of the signage display panel. The display container may define a space to releasably receive a plurality of products. 
     Particular embodiments of a product display apparatus may include a shelf support section separating a first store aisle from a second store aisle and extending generally parallel to the first and second store aisles. The shelf support section may include a base, an upper edge opposite the base, and a vertical array of product support surfaces extending in a horizontal direction between a plurality of vertical side supports. The vertical array of product support surfaces may be positioned above the base and below the upper edge. The apparatus may also include a sign support member mounted to and generally parallel to the upper edge of the shelf support section such that the sign support member and the shelf support section cooperatively define a viewing gap. The bottom edge of the viewing gap may be positioned at a height of about 54 inches to about 68 inches, and the viewing gap may extend vertically for a distance of about 4 inches to about 18 inches. The apparatus may also include a product display sign removably mounted to the sign support member in an elevated position above the upper edge of the shelf support section. The product display sign may include one or more images on a front surface that is retained in a generally vertical orientation when the product display sign is removably mounted to the sign support member. The viewing gap may be substantially unobstructed so as to provide line-of-sight viewing between the first and second aisles. 
     Some embodiments of a method for displaying products may include arranging a product display apparatus between a first store aisle and an adjacent store aisle. The product display apparatus may include a first set of horizontal shelf surfaces facing toward the first store aisle, a second set of shelf surfaces facing toward the adjacent store aisle, and at least one rear wall separating the first and second sets of horizontal shelf surfaces. The method may also include placing a plurality of products on the first and second sets of horizontal shelf surfaces so that the plurality of products are accessible from at least one of the first store aisle and the adjacent store aisle. The method may further include mounting an image-bearing panel in an elevated position above the rear wall of the product display apparatus so as to define a see-through opening between the image-bearing panel and the rear wall. The see-through opening may provide visibility at a selected height range from the first store aisle to the adjacent store aisle. The image-bearing panel may include a front surface having images related to at least one of the products accessible from at least one of the first store aisle and the adjacent store aisle. The method may also include inserting one or more embedded display window structures into one or more corresponding cavities formed in a front surface such that a front face of each embedded display window structure is positioned forward of the front surface of the image-bearing panel. Each embedded display window structure may carry one or more products or images related to at least one of the products accessible from at least one of the first store aisle and the adjacent store aisle. 
     These and other embodiments described herein may provide one or more of the following benefits. First, the display apparatus may include an elevated signage portion that is spaced above a shelf support section, which can draw more attention from consumers located a distance away from the immediate store aisle. Second, the elevated signage portion may also provide a see-through visibility gap (between the elevated signage portion and the shelf support section) that provides consumers with the opportunity to view products, displays, and other consumers in an adjacent aisle. Third, the elevated signage portion can be configured to receive one or more display containers that extend forwardly from the front plane of the image-bearing product sign. As such, the elevated signage portion can provide a three-dimensional exhibit that further attracts consumers to a targeted set of products arranged in the display container. Fourth, the elevated signage portion can be configured to receive one or more embedded display window structures that provide added texture and attention-drawing features to the elevated signage portion while also retaining a number of selected products in a sample or diorama-like display. 
     Some or all of these and other benefits may be provided by the apparatus and methods described herein. 
     The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       These and other aspects and advantages will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a display apparatus, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  is a close up view of a shelf support section and an elevated signage portion of the display apparatus of  FIG. 1 , in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of embedded display windows for the elevated signage portion, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIGS. 4A-4B  are perspective views of a removable display rack for the elevated signage portion, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 5A  is a perspective view of a display container for the elevated signage portion, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 5B  is an exploded view of the display container of  FIG. 5A  in relation to a horizontal support, in accordance with some embodiments. 
         FIG. 5C  is a side view of the display container of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 5D  is a rear view of the display container of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 5E  is a top view of the display container of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 5F  is a bottom view of the display container of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 6A  is a perspective view of a display container, in accordance with other embodiments. 
         FIG. 6B  is a side view of the display container of  FIG. 6A . 
         FIG. 6C  is a side view of the display container of  FIG. 6A . 
         FIG. 6D  is a rear view of the display container of  FIG. 6A . 
         FIG. 6E  is a top view of the display container of  FIG. 6A . 
         FIG. 6F  is a bottom view of the display container of  FIG. 6A . 
         FIG. 7  is an exploded cross section view of a removable display rack, display panels, and a display container in relation to a horizontal support, in accordance with some embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , some embodiments of a retail display apparatus  100  can be configured to display a variety of products, images related to available products, or a combination thereof. The retail display apparatus  100  includes a number of shelf support sections  102   a - d  separated by dividers  106 . The dividers  106  can both physically and visually separate the shelf support sections  102   a - d . Each shelf support section  102   a - d  can include one or more shelves  104 . The shelves  104  can retain a number of retail products thereon. For example, the shelves  104  can display a variety of cosmetic products to allow consumers passing by the retail display apparatus  100  to view and select from among the variety of cosmetic products. As another example, the shelves  104  can display a number of apparel products such as folded shirts and pants to allow consumers to view the apparel products and select a desired size and style from among the apparel products. Each shelf support section  102   a - d  additionally includes a base portion  108 . The base portions  108  may also serve as the lowest shelf so as to retain and display retail products in a similar manner as described above for the shelves  104 . 
     The display apparatus  100  may be arranged between a first store aisle and a second, adjacent store aisle. In such circumstances, the apparatus  100  may include shelf support sections  102  on both sides. For example, the shelf support section  102   a  may include a first set of shelves  104  that face toward the first store aisle while an oppositely disposed shelf section (not shown in  FIG. 1 ) may include a second set of shelves that face toward the second store aisle. At least one rear wall  116  may separate the first set of shelves  104  from the oppositely disposed shelves that face toward the second aisle. For example, each shelf support section  102   a - d  can include a respective rear wall  116  that extends between the dividers  106 . Each rear wall  116  may extend upward from the base portion  108  to an upper edge  103  of the shelf support sections  102 . In some embodiments, the rear wall  116  of a shelf support section  102   a  can be arranged back-to-back with a rear wall of an oppositely disposed shelf support section (that faces toward the second store aisle). 
     In some embodiments, the retail display apparatus  100  can include an endcap display  110  on one or both of the ends of the retail display apparatus  100 . The endcap display  110  can include a number of display racks  112  for retaining and displaying retail products. For example, the display racks  112  can display a plurality of moisturizers, lotions, or other cosmetic products to attract consumers passing by the retail display apparatus  100 . The endcap display  110  can additionally include an endcap sign  114  for displaying product information. In some embodiments, the endcap sign  114  can display information relating to various sales promotions. In some embodiments, the endcap sign  114  can display a decorative graphic to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the retail display apparatus  100 . 
     Still referring to  FIG. 1 , in accordance with some embodiments, the retail display apparatus  100  includes a number of elevated signage portions  130   a - d . The retail display apparatus  100  can include an elevated signage portion  130   a ,  130   b ,  130   c ,  130   d  extending above each of the shelf support sections  102   a ,  102   b ,  102   c ,  102   d , respectively. For example, the retail display apparatus  100  can include the elevated signage portion  130   a  that extends above the shelf support section  102   a . In some embodiments, the elevated signage portion  130   a  is coupled to the shelf support section  102   a  by one or more vertical supports  132  that extend upward beyond the upper edge  103  of the shelf support section  102   a . It should be understood that, in some embodiments, the vertical supports  132  may be concealed behind the dividers  106  or integrally formed with the dividers  106 . 
     In some embodiments, the elevated signage portions  130  can include a display panel  134 . For example, the elevated signage portion  130   b  can include the display panel  134   b  that communicates product information, images of products, information relating to various sales promotions, or decorative graphics to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the elevated signage portion  130   b . In some embodiments, the display panel  134  can be supported by a horizontal support  136 . For example, the horizontal support  136  can retain and display the first display panel  134   a . The horizontal support  136  can be coupled to the vertical supports  132  and receive one or more edges of the display panel  134   a . In some embodiments, the horizontal support  136  can include a first horizontal channel for receiving and retaining an edge of the display panel  134   a . As described in more detail below in connection with  FIG. 7 , the first channel can be generally u-shaped and be sized to receive the bottom edge of the display panel  134   a  and also contact lower portions of the front and rear surfaces of the display panel  134   a . In such circumstances, the first channel of the horizontal support  136  can provide a friction fit to releasably retain the display panel  134   a  in an upright position. The first channel can allow a user of the retail display apparatus  100  to readily secure the display panel  134   a  to the retail display apparatus  100  without the use of tools. 
     In some embodiments, the horizontal support  136  is spaced above the upper edge  103  of the shelf support section  102   a  so as to create a gap  135  which allows see-through visibility to the opposing side of the retail display apparatus  100 . For example, if the retail display apparatus  100  is positioned along an aisle of a store, the gap  135  can allow a customer to see-through the retail display apparatus  100  to the next aisle. In some embodiments, the horizontal support  136  can be positioned at a height  138  so that the gap  135  is positioned at about eye level for an average adult consumer. In some embodiments, the height  138  can be about 48 inches to about 70 inches, about 54 inches to about 68 inches, and (in this embodiment) about 60 inches to about 66 inches. 
     By spacing the elevated signage portion  130  above the shelf support section  102 , the elevated signage portion  130  may draw more attention from consumers from a further distance away than if the elevated signage portion where mounted directly to the upper edge  103  of the shelf support section  102   a . Also, the see-through visibility gaps  135  between the elevated signage portions  130  and the shelf support sections  102  provide consumers with the opportunity to view products and displays in adjacent aisles. The see-through visibility provided by the gap  135  also creates a sense of openness as a consumer in one aisle can readily view consumers in an adjacent aisle of the retail store environment. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the elevated signage portion  130  can include one or more embedded display windows  140   a - b . The embedded display windows  140   a - b  can be embedded within the display panel  134   a  of the elevated signage portion  130   a . In some embodiments, the embedded display windows  140   a - b  can extend forward beyond the front plane of the display panel  134   a . The embedded display windows  140   a - b  can be configured to retain and display a number of products (e.g., a sample collection of products retained on the shelves  104  below) and information relating to the products in an enclosed case. For example, the embedded display windows  140   a - b  can display various cosmetic products, such as blush, lipstick, eyeliner, and foundation in a variety of colors and styles. The embedded display windows  140   a - b  can additionally display information on suggested uses for the products, or images that demonstrate suggested combinations of products. The embedded display windows  140   a - b  can have a transparent front surface to allow consumers to view the products and information displayed by the embedded display windows  140   a - b  while preventing the consumers from being able to remove the products from the embedded display windows  140   a - b.    
     In some embodiments, each embedded display window  140   a - b  can have an opaque front surface. Each opaque front surface can include a sign for displaying product information, images of products, information relating to various sales promotions, or decorative graphics to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the retail display apparatus  100 . In alternative embodiments, the front surface of each embedded display window  140   a - b  can be partially opaque and partially transparent. For example, the left half of the embedded display window  140   a  may be transparent and display a variety of fashion accessories while the right half of the embedded display window  140   a  may be opaque and include an image of a person wearing one or more of the fashion accessories displayed in the left half of the embedded display window  140   a . As another example, the front surface of the embedded display window  140   b  may be made from a transparent material with a graphic printed on the front surface with an opaque or translucent ink layer. In this example, the areas not covered by the ink layer would be transparent, while the areas covered by the ink layer would be opaque or translucent. In other embodiments, all or part of the front surfaces of the embedded display windows  140   a - b  may be translucent. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 1 , in accordance with some embodiments, the elevated signage portion  130   a  can include one or more removable display racks  150 . The removable display rack  150  is supported by the horizontal support  136  and is positioned in front of the display panel  134   a , thereby providing an added dimension to the elevated signage portion  130   a . In some embodiments, the removable display rack  150  is held in place by a second channel of the horizontal support  136 . As described in more detail below in connection with  FIG. 7 , the second channel can be generally u-shaped and can be sized to removably receive an edge of the display rack  150 . In some embodiments, the display rack  150  can include one or more compartments  152  for holding retail products related to the products retained on the shelves  104  below. For example, the display rack  150  can include a compartment  152  for holding gift cards with images indicative of the products on the shelves  104  below. As another example, the display rack  150  can include a compartment  152  for holding books related to the products on the shelves  104  below. As another example, the display rack  150  can include a compartment  152  for holding pamphlets that communicate information on products displayed by the retail display apparatus  100 . 
     Still referring to  FIG. 1 , in accordance with some embodiments, the elevated signage portion  130   a  can include a removable display container  160 . The removable display container  160  can be configured to retain and display various retail items, such as a collection of selected products retained on the shelves  104  below. For example, the display container  160  can be used to display a number of lipsticks or other cosmetics of a particular color scheme selected from the larger group of lipsticks or other cosmetics retained on the shelves  104  below. Accordingly, the display container  160  can act as a demonstrative for consumers seeking guidance on how to select a particular set of cosmetic products (e.g., a set for a particular color scheme, a set of a particular combination of product types, or the like). As another example, the display container  160  can be used to display various makeup application sponges. In some embodiments, the display container  160  can include a mounting clip (described in more detail below) for engaging the second channel of the horizontal support  136 . The mounting clip can be sized so as to form a friction fit with the second channel when the display container  160  is mounted to the horizontal support  136 . 
     In some embodiments, the display container  160  can extend at least partially below the horizontal support  136  to partially block the see-through visibility gap  135  between the shelf support section  102  and the elevated signage portion  130 . In such circumstances, the display container  160  allows visibility of the portion of the display panel  134   a  that is located above the display container  160  while also drawing attention to the selected products featured in the display container  160 . This allows a customer to view graphics, or information located on that portion of the display panel  134   a . In some embodiments, the display container  160  can extend above the horizontal support  136  so as to not block the see-through visibility gap  135  and provide an added dimension to the elevated signage portion  130   a.    
     Because the display container  160  can releasably mount directly to the elevated signage portion  130   a , the display container  160  can position selected products in close proximity to information relating to the products conveyed by the display panel  134   a . For example, the display container  160  can retain and display a number of cosmetic products, and the display panel  134   a  can include suggested uses or pairings of the cosmetic products retained by the display container  160 . As another example, the embedded display window  140   b  can feature a display promoting a new lipstick shade. In this example, the display container  160  can include a quantity of lipsticks corresponding to the shade promoted by the embedded display window  140   b  to allow consumers attracted by the display of the embedded display window  140   b  to readily obtain one or more of the lipsticks. In addition, the display container  160  can extend in a forward direction beyond the front plane of the display panel  134   a ; thereby creating a three-dimensional exhibit for the elevated signage portion  134   a  that can attract the attention of consumers, especially consumers that are looking in a direction that is substantially parallel to the display panel  134   a . Also, in some embodiments, the display container  160  can be mounted at an elevated height that is about eye-level for an average adult consumer, thereby more readily drawing the attention of consumers than shelves or other product displays positioned above or below eye level. 
     In accordance with some embodiments, the retail display apparatus  100  includes an integrated lighting fixture  170 . The integrated lighting fixture  170  can include vertical supports  172  for supporting the integrated lighting fixture  170 . In some embodiments, the vertical supports  172  can extend above the shelf support sections  102  so as to be spaced above the elevated signage portions  130 . The integrated lighting fixture  170  can include horizontal supports  174  extending between the vertical supports  172 . The horizontal supports can support a number of lights  176 . The lights can be positioned so as to illuminate portions of the elevated signage portions  130  and the shelf support sections  102 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , each elevated signage portion  130  is positioned above the respective shelf support section  102  to create the see-through visibility gap  135 . In this embodiment, the vertical supports  132  are generally concealed from view by the dividers  106 , thereby providing a generally continuous gap  135  between the dividers  106  and above the upper edge  103  of the shelf support section  102 . The gap  135  is formed between the horizontal support  136  and the upper edge  103  of the shelf support section  102  and has a gap height  139 . In some embodiments, the gap height  139  can be about 1 inch to about 24 inches, about 2 inches to about 18 inches, about 3 inches to about 12 inches, and (in this embodiment) about 4 inches to about 6 inches. In some embodiments, the gap height  139  can be about 4 inches to about 18 inches. In the example depicted, the elevated signage portion  130  extends a horizontal distance that is about the distance between the dividers  106 . In other embodiments, the elevated signage portion  130  can extend a horizontal distance that is substantially less than the distance between the dividers  106 . 
     The elevated signage portion  130  includes the display panel  134 . The display panel  134  is supported by the horizontal support  136 . The bottom edge of the display panel  134  engages a first channel of the horizontal support  136  as described above in connection with  FIG. 1 . As described above, the horizontal support  136  can include a second channel for supporting display racks and display containers. Both the first and second channels can be u-shaped. In some embodiments, the horizontal support  136  can include a third channel (refer to  FIG. 7 ) that runs parallel to the first and second channels and is positioned along side the first channel on a side of the first channel opposite of the second channel, as described in more detail below with reference to  FIG. 7 . The third channel can releasably retain a second display panel distinct from the display panel  134  in the same manner that the first channel retains the display panel  134 . The second display panel can display text, images, and products to consumers facing a side of the elevated signage portion  130  that is opposite of the side shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     Still referring to  FIG. 2 , in this embodiment, the elevated signage portion  130  includes embedded display windows  140   a  and  140   b  that are removably seated in corresponding apertures in the display panel  134 . The embedded display windows  140   a  and  140   b  include front faces  142   a  and  142   b  respectively that extend forward beyond the front plane of the display panel  134 , thereby providing a three-dimensional demonstrative or exhibit to the viewer. In the example depicted, the front face  142   a  of the embedded display window  140   a  is generally opaque. The front face  142   a  can include text, images, or a combination thereof relating to products displayed on one or more shelves  104  below the embedded display window  140   a  or products displayed elsewhere by a retail display that includes the embedded display window  140   a . For example, a number of shoes, boots, and other footwear items may be positioned on the shelf  104 . The front face  142   a  can include one or more images of people wearing one or more of the footwear items displayed on the shelf  104 . The images can include suggested apparel items to pair with one or more of the footwear items in order to create one or more outfits. As another example, the front face  142   a  can include text suggesting various looks that can be achieved using a variety of cosmetic products displayed by the retail display that includes the embedded display window  140   a . For example, the front surface  142   a  can include text that suggests a particular shade of eye shadow as being suitable for a particular occasion while suggesting corresponding lipstick and blush shades that can be paired with the eye shadow. 
     In other embodiments, the front face  142   a  of the embedded display window  140   a  can be coated with a reflective material to allow the embedded display window  140   a  to act as a mirror. For example, a variety of cosmetic product samples may be retained and displayed by the elevated signage portion  130  or on the shelf  104 . By being reflective, the front surface  142   a  can allow consumers to try on the cosmetic product samples and view themselves while wearing the cosmetic products. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 2 , in the example depicted, the front face  142   b  of the embedded display window  140   b  is generally transparent. The generally transparent front face  142   b  allows consumers to view one or more products  144  retained within the embedded display window  140   b  without being able to remove the products from the embedded display window  140   b . This allows the embedded display window  140   b  to present a diorama-like display of a selected collection of products  144  (e.g., which may be selected from a larger group of products retained on the shelves  104  below). In some embodiments, the embedded display window  140   b  can retain one or more signs which include images or text relating to the products  144 . For example, the products  144  can be a number of cosmetic products intended for a particular season. The embedded display window  140   b  can include a sign positioned adjacent to or behind the products  144  (e.g., on a rear face) depicting an image of a model wearing the selected cosmetics. As another example, the products  144  can be a variety of earrings. The embedded display window  140   b  can include a sign positioned adjacent to or behind the products  144  (e.g., on a rear face) depicting an image of people wearing one or more of the variety of earrings. 
     In some embodiments, the front face  142   a  of the embedded display window  140   a  can include text or images relating to the products  144  displayed within the embedded display window  140   b . For example, the product  144  can be a cosmetic case which includes a variety of lip glosses, blushes, eye shadows, and eye liners in various shades. The front face  142   a  of the embedded display window  140   a  can include text describing a look that can be made using one or more of the cosmetics included in the cosmetic case displayed in the embedded display window  140   b . As another example, the front face  142   a  can include an image of a person wearing one or more of the cosmetics displayed within the embedded display window  140   b.    
     Still referring to  FIG. 2 , in accordance with some embodiments, the elevated signage portion  130  includes at least one display rack  150 . The display rack  150  can be retained by the second channel of the horizontal support  136  as described below in connection with  FIG. 7 . The main portion of the display rack  150  can extend above the horizontal support  136  in a direction that is substantially parallel to the front surface of the display panel  134 . The display rack  150  includes compartments  152   a  and  152   b  for retaining products or literature relating to the displayed products. In some embodiments, the compartment  152   a  can be configured to hold gift cards that can be used to purchase one or more of the products  144  displayed by the embedded display window  140   b  or other products located in a store that includes the display rack  150 . The gift cards can include images related to products displayed by the elevated signage portion  130  or on the shelf  104  below. For example, a number of cookware items can be displayed on the shelf  104 . The compartment  152   a  can retain and display gift cards with images of one or more of the cookware items that can be used to purchase the cookware items or other products located in a store which includes the display rack  150 . 
     In some embodiments, the compartment  152   b  can be configured to hold books, pamphlets, or other literature related to products displayed by the retail display. For example, following the example where the shelf  104  is displaying a number of cookware items, the compartment  152   b  can retain and display a number of cookbooks to allow consumers to view and select from among the cookbooks. By placing the cookbooks in close proximity to the cookware, a consumer is able to easily select and purchase a cookbook without having to search through a different section of the store. As another example, a number of cosmetic products can be displayed within the embedded display window  140   b  or on the shelf  104 . The compartment  152   b  can retain and display one or more books on applying makeup and pairing various makeup shades with each other. As yet another example, a number of hiking related products can be displayed on the shelf  104 . The compartment  152   b  can retain and display maps of various hiking trails. 
     In some embodiments, the compartments  152   a  and  152   b  can display various products. For example, the compartment  152   a  can display a variety of wristbands and the compartment  152   b  can display a variety of headbands in various colors. As another example, the compartment  152   a  can display a variety of yo-yos and the compartment  152   b  can display books on how to perform yo-yo tricks. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 2 , in accordance with some embodiments, the elevated signage portion  130  includes at least one display container  160  mounted forward of the display panel  134 . The display container  160  can be configured to releasably mount to the second channel of the horizontal support  136  as described below in connection with  FIG. 7 . The display container  160  can retain a variety of products  162 . For example, the display container  160  can display a variety of products depicted on the front surface  142   a  of the embedded display window  140   a  or retained within the embedded display window  140   b . For example, the products  162  can be various shades of cosmetic products displayed within the embedded display window  140   b . In some embodiments, the products  162  can be the same as or similar to the products  144  to allow consumers to easily obtain products displayed within the embedded display window  140   b . By retaining the products  162  in close proximity to the embedded display window  140   b , the display container  160  allows consumers to easily obtain and purchase desired products that are the same as or similar to the products  144  that can be viewed by, but are not accessible to consumers. By extending in a forward direction beyond the front plane of the display panel  134   a , the display container  160  creates a three-dimensional look for the elevated signage portion  134   a  that can attract the attention of consumers. Furthermore, the display container  160  provides an opportunity to showcase a particular subset of products  162  from the larger group of products displayed on the shelf  104  below. Accordingly, the consumer&#39;s attention may be drawn toward the targeted or showcased set of products  162 . 
     In some embodiments, the display panel  134  includes images, text, or both in the area above or behind the display container  160 . The images and text can be related to the products  162  displayed by the display container  160 . For example, the products  162  can be a variety of lipsticks and the display panel  134  can include an image of a person wearing one of the lipstick shades displayed within the display container  160 . As another example, the products  162  can be a set of candies, and the display panel  134  can include images of children enjoying the candies. In some embodiments, the display container  160  can retain products that are related to other products displayed on the shelf  104  or elsewhere on a retail display that includes the display container  160 . For example, camping related products, such as tents, small portable grills, and backpacks can be displayed on the shelf  104 . In this example, the products  162  displayed by the display container  160  can be compasses. As another example, a variety of swimsuits can be displayed on the shelf  104  and the products  162  can be various containers of sunscreen. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 2 , in accordance with some embodiments, the shelf support section  102  can include signs  178  and mirrors  179  mounted to the dividers  106 . The signs  178  can communicate product information, images of products, information relating to various sales promotions, or decorative graphics. For example, the signs  178  can display various trademarks or logos associated with products displayed by the elevated signage portion  130  and the shelf support section  102 . By extending from the dividers  106 , the signs can attract the attention of consumers, especially consumers that are looking in a direction that is substantially parallel to the display panel  134 . The mirrors  179  can allow consumers to view themselves while trying out various products. For example, the compartments  152   a - b  may display a variety of sunglasses. The mirrors  179  can allow consumers to view themselves while wearing the sunglasses. As another example, the display container  160  can display a variety of cosmetic product samples. The mirrors  179  can allow consumers to view themselves while wearing one or more of the cosmetic product samples. As another example, a variety of apparel items such as hats and shirts may be arranged on the shelf  104 . The mirrors  179  can allow consumers to view themselves while wearing one or more of the apparel items. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , in accordance with some embodiments, embedded display windows  140   c  and  140   d  are partially disposed within respective cavities of the display panel  134 . The display panel  134  is supported by a horizontal support as described above with reference to  FIG. 1 . The embedded display windows  140   c  and  140   d  include front faces  142   c  and  142   d  respectively. In some embodiments, the front faces  142   c - d  extend in a forward direction beyond the front surface of the display panel  134  a distance  145 . In some embodiments, the distance  145  can be about one eighth of an inch to about three inches, about one quarter of an inch to about two inches, and (in this embodiment) about one half of an inch to one inch. In other embodiments, the front faces  142   c - d  can be substantially flush with the front surface of the display panel  134 . In the embodiment depicted, the front faces  142   c - d  are substantially flat. In some embodiments, all or portions of the front faces  142   c - d  can be concave or convex. 
     The embedded display windows  140   c  and  140   d  include rear faces  146   c  and  146   d  respectively. In some embodiments, the rear faces  146   c - d  are substantially parallel to the front faces  142   c - d . In some embodiments, the rear faces  146   c - d  extend backward from the front surface of the display panel  134  a distance  147 . In some embodiments, the distance  147  can be about one quarter of an inch to about five inches, about one half of an inch to four inches, and (in this embodiment) about one inch to about three inches. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 3 , in the example depicted, the front faces  142   c - d  are generally transparent to allow consumers to view products  144   c  and  144   d  contained respectively within the embedded display windows  140   c  and  140   d . For example, the products  144   c  can be selected shades of blush and the other products  144   d  can be corresponding shades of eye shadow. The generally transparent front faces  142   c - d  allow consumers to view the products  144   c - d  without being able to move the products  144   c - d  or remove the products  144   c - d  from the embedded display windows  140   c - d.    
     In some embodiments, the rear faces  146   c - d  can include text and images related to the products  144   c - d  display within in the embedded display windows  140   c - d . For example, the products  144   d  can be sunglasses. The rear face  146   d  can include images of a person wearing the sunglasses, or text conveying information about the sunglasses, such as UV-protection factor of the sunglasses, or warranty information related to the sunglasses. As another example, the products  144   c  and  144   d  can be selected shades of two different brands of lipstick. The rear face  146   c  can include an image of a logo or brand name of the lipsticks displayed within the embedded display window  140   c , and the neighboring rear face  146   d  can include an image of a logo or brand name of the lipsticks displayed within the neighboring display window  140   d . In other embodiments, the embedded display windows  140   c - d  can include no products for display so as to draw attention to the text or images on the rear faces  146   c - d  or on the front faces  142   c - d.    
     In some embodiments, the front faces  142   c - d  can be translucent. For example, the front face  142   c  can be tinted with a red hue or another hue. As another example, the front face  142   d  can include a translucent image of a popular cartoon character and the products  146   d  therein can be toys related to the cartoon character. In some embodiments, the front faces  140   c - d  can be partially opaque and partially transparent. For example the left half of the front face  142   d  can be generally transparent to allow consumers to view some or all of the products  144   d , while the right half of the front surface  142   d  can be opaque and include text, images, or both relating to the products  146   d . As another example, the products  144   c  can be running shoes, and the left half of the front surface  142   c  can be transparent or translucent to allow consumers to view the running shoes. The right half of the front surface  142   c  can be opaque and include text that conveys information on the health benefits of running. 
     Because the embedded display windows  140   c - d  extend forwardly beyond the front surface of the display panel  134 , the embedded display windows  140   c - d  create a three-dimensional look to the elevated signage portion  130  that includes the display panel  134 , thereby more readily attracting the attention of consumers. Additionally, by retaining and displaying actual products  144   c - d  available on the shelves  104  below, the embedded display windows  140   c - d  add an extra element of depth to the elevated signage portion  130 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 4A-B , some embodiments of the removable display rack  150  are supported by the horizontal support  136  of the elevated signage portion  130 . The display rack  150  may be positioned so as to partially block a portion of a display panel  134  retained by a first channel of the horizontal support  136 . The display rack  150  in this embodiment includes a main portion  154  and a mounting portion  156 . The main portion  154  can be constructed from a single flat piece of a sheet material such as plastic, cardboard, paperboard, foamcore board, or poster board. In the example depicted, the main portion  154  extends upward from the horizontal support  136  in a direction that is substantially parallel to the display panel  134 . The mounting portion  156  (as shown in  FIG. 4B ) can be configured to releasably engage a second channel  137  of the horizontal support  136 . In some embodiments, the second channel  137  is u-shaped and includes two opposing inner sides that form right angles with a bottom surface. In some embodiments, the mounting portion  156  can be thicker than the main portion  154  so as to be wide enough to engage both of the opposing inner sides of the second channel  137 . By engaging both of the opposing inner sides, the mounting portion  156  forms a friction fit with the second channel  137 . The friction fit secures the display rack  150  in the operative position while allowing the display rack  150  to be readily removed from the horizontal support  136  by hand without the use of handheld tools and repositioned elsewhere on the horizontal support  136  or on a different horizontal support. In some embodiments, the mounting portion  156  can easily slide within the second channel  137  to allow the display rack  150  to be readily repositioned along the horizontal support  136 . In some embodiments, the mounting portion  156  can extend in a vertical direction so as to engage the bottom surface of the second channel  137 . In some embodiments, the mounting portion  156  can be the same thickness as the main portion  154 . In some embodiments, the main portion  154  can be thicker than the mounting portion  156 . 
     As previously described, the display rack  150  includes compartments  152   a  and  152   b  for retaining and display products or information related to products. For example, the compartment  152   b  can retain and display a number of handheld Global Positioning System units and the compartment  152   a  can retain and display pamphlets on how to use the Global Positioning System units. The compartments  152   a  and  152   b  extend in a forward direction from the front surface of the main portion  154 . In some embodiments, the compartment  152   b  can extend a greater distance than the compartment  152   a . Also, the compartments  152   a  and  152   b  can be partially disposed within the main portion  154 . The front surface (and optionally the bottom and side surfaces) of the compartments  152   a - b  can be transparent or translucent to allow consumers to more readily view the products retained by the compartments  152   a - b . In some embodiments, the compartments  152   a - b  can include text or images relating to the products being retained by the compartments  152   a - b . For example, the compartment  152   b  can retain and display various hair care products and the compartment  152   b  can include text reading “marked down 50% from original price.” As another example, the compartment  152   b  can retain and display books on dieting and the compartment  152   b  can include text conveying various credentials and achievements of the author of the books. 
     In some embodiments, the display panel  134  can include text, images, or both related to the products retained by the compartments  152   a - b . For example, the display panel  134  can include images of various cosmetic products. In this example, the compartment  152   a  can retain and display gift cards that can be used to purchase the various cosmetic products, and the compartment  152   b  can retain and display books detailing various ways to apply the various cosmetic products. As another example, the display panel  134  can include images of drum kits. In this example, the compartment  152   a  can retain and display drumsticks and the compartment  152   b  can retain and display books of sheet music of drum parts for popular songs. In some embodiments, the main portion  154  can include text, images, or both to convey information to consumers. For example, main portion  154  can include text positioned behind the compartment  152   a  to indicate to customers that a product previously retained by the compartment  152   a  is still in stock and that customers can contact a sales associate to obtain the product. 
     By being positioned in front of the front surface of the display panel  134 , the display rack  150  creates a three-dimensional effect for the elevated signage portion  130 , thereby more readily attracting the attention of consumers than a substantially flat display. Additionally, the display racks  150  are readily releasable from the horizontal support  136 , so each display rack  150  can be readily removed from the elevated signage portion  130  and mounted at a different position to quickly change the appearance of the display apparatus  100 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 5A-5F , a display container  160  can retain a selected set of products  162  in a manner that draws added attention to those products  162 . As depicted in  FIGS. 5A and 5B , the display container  160  can be mounted to the horizontal support  136  of the elevated signage portion  130 . The display container  160  can be positioned on the horizontal support  136  in front of a display panel  134 , which is received by the first channel of the horizontal support  136  (described below in the connection with  FIG. 7 ). The display container  160  includes a mounting clip  164  configured to engage a second channel  137  of the horizontal support  136 , as shown in  FIG. 5B . In some embodiments, the second channel  137  can be u-shaped (refer to  FIG. 7 ) and includes two opposing inner sides that form right angles with a bottom surface as described above with reference to  FIG. 4B . In some embodiments, the mounting clip  164  is configured to engage both of the opposing inner sides of the second channel  137 . By engaging both of the opposing inner sides, the mounting clip  164  forms a readily removable friction fit with the second channel  137 . The friction fit holds the display container  160  in place while allowing the display container  160  to be readily removed from the horizontal support  136  by hand without the use of handheld tools and repositioned elsewhere on the horizontal support  136  or on a different horizontal support. In some embodiments, the mounting clip  164  can easily slide within the second channel  137  to allow the display container  160  to be easily repositioned along the horizontal support  136 . 
     In some embodiments, the mounting clip  164  defines a channel  166  of the display container  160 . The channel  166  may include two opposing inner sides as described above for the second channel  137 . The channel  166  can receive a front portion of the horizontal support  136 . The front portion of the horizontal support can be wide enough to engage the two opposing inner sides of the channel  166  so as to create a friction fit. The friction fit can secure the display container  160  in place with respect to the horizontal support  136 , while also allowing the display container to be readily removed in a toolless manner (e.g., without the use of handheld tools or the like). 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 5A-5F , in accordance with some embodiments, the front or sides of the display container  160  can include images, text, or both related to the products  162  being retained and displayed by the display container  160 . For example, the front of the display container  160  can include a logo related to the products  162 . As another example, the products  162  can be various shades of lipstick and the front of the display container  160  can include text indicating the names of the various shades of lipstick. As yet another example, the sides of the display container  160  can include text indicating the price of the products  162 . In some embodiments, the display panel  134  can include text, images or both relating to the products  162 . For example, the large images of the products  162  so as to draw the attention of consumers from a large distance. When consumers approach the display panel  134 , the close proximity of the display container  160  to the display panel  134  allows consumers to readily access the products  162  depicted on the display panel  134 . As another example, the display container  160  can display a variety of cosmetic products and the display panel  134  can include images of one or more people wearing the cosmetic products. In some embodiments, the display panel  134  can include graphics or images to enhance the aesthetic appearance of a retail display that includes the display container  160 . 
     As previously described, the display container  160  can be secured in an operative position forward of the front surface of the display panel  134  to thereby provide a three-dimensional effect to the elevated signage portion  130 . Such an arrangement can reduce the amount of the display panel  134  that is concealed or obscured by the display container  160  and the products  162 . Also, such an arrangement of the display container  160  can more readily attract the attention of consumers. Furthermore, the display containers  160  may be position in close proximity to the display panel  134  so that consumers can readily access, obtain, and purchase products marketed by the display panel  134  or elsewhere on a display apparatus  100 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 6A-6F , some alternative embodiments of a display container  260  may include a mounting portion  262 , a base portion  264 , and a top portion  266 . The mounting portion  262  can be configured to mount to the horizontal support  136  of the elevated signage portion  130 . As previously described, the horizontal support  136  can engage and support the display panel  134 . In some embodiments, the top portion  266  can be all or partially transparent to allow consumers to view products  268  retained by the display container  260 . In some embodiments, the top portion  266  can be locked or otherwise secured to the base portion  264  so that consumers are hindered from moving the products therein. In such circumstances, the generally transparent top portion  266  allows consumers to view the products  268  without being able to remove the products  268  from the display container  260 . In other embodiments, the top portion  266  can be readily removed from the base portion  264  to allow consumers to gain access to the products  268 . For example, the top portion  266  can form a friction fit with part of the base portion  264  to allow the top portion  266  to be lifted off of the top of the base portion  264 . As another example, the top portion  266  can be coupled to the base portion  264  by a hinge mechanism to allow consumers to open the display container  260  and obtain one or more of the products  268 . 
     In some embodiments, the base portion  264  of display container  260  includes one or more compartments  270  for receiving the products  268 . For example, the base portion  264  can include one or more circular shaped compartments  270  for receiving lipsticks. As another example, the base portion can include one or more compartments  270  for receiving the handles of tooth brushes. By being configured to receive the products  268 , the compartments  270  can retain the products  268  in a secure manner, thereby preventing the products  268  from falling over or becoming displaced when the display container  260  is moved or handled. 
     In some embodiments, the base portion  264  can be rotatably coupled to the mounting portion  262  to allow the base portion  264  to be rotated about a generally vertical axis with respect to the mounting portion  262 . In some alternative embodiments, the axis of rotation can be substantially non-vertical. By being rotatable with relation to the mounting portion  262 , the base portion  264  allows consumers to rotate the base portion  264  and top portion  266  to readily view the products  268  from a variety of angles. For example, the display container  260  may retain and display a shoe. By having a rotatable base portion  264 , the display container  260  allows a consumer to view a number of sides of the shoe to more readily determine if the shoe has the look or style that the consumer desires. As another example, the products  268  can be lipsticks of various shades. By having a rotatable base portion  264 , the display container  260  allows a consumer to more easily view all of the various shades of lipsticks than if the base portion  264  was positioned at a fixed position with relation to the mounting portion  262 . 
     Still referring to  FIGS. 6A-6F , in some embodiments, the mounting portion  262  includes a mounting tab  272  and a support arm  274 . The mounting tab  272  is configured to engage a channel of the horizontal support  136  as described above for the mounting clip  164  of the display container  160  with reference to  FIG. 5B . The support arm  274  extends from the mounting tab  272  to project the display container  260  out in front of the horizontal support  136 , thereby creating a three-dimensional effect for the elevated signage portion  130 . In some embodiments, the mounting tab  272  is configured to engage two opposing inner sides of the channel of the horizontal support  136 . By engaging both of the opposing inner sides, the mounting tab  272  forms a readily removable friction fit with the channel. The friction fit holds the display container  260  in place while allowing the display container  260  to be readily removed from the horizontal support  136  by hand without the use of handheld tools and repositioned elsewhere on the horizontal support  136  or on a different horizontal support. In some embodiments, the mounting tab  272  can easily slide within the channel to allow the display container  260  to be easily repositioned along the horizontal support  136 . 
     In some embodiments, the display panel  134  can include text, images or both relating to the products  268  in the display container  260 . For example, the display container  260  can include a display of the inside of a golf ball. The display panel can include text and images conveying details of the various layers of the golf ball and indicating advantages of using the displayed golf ball over other golf balls. In some embodiments, the display container  260  can include images or text relating to the products  268 . For example, the products  268  can be various cosmetic products and a side of the top portion  266  can include an image of a person wearing some or all of the cosmetic products. As another example, one or more of the sides of the top portion  266  can include text indicating the prices of one or more of the products  268 . 
     Similar to previously described embodiments, the display container  260  can be secured in an operative position forward of the front surface of the display panel  134  to thereby provide a three-dimensional effect to the elevated signage portion  130 . Such an arrangement can reduce the amount of the display panel  134  that is concealed or obscured by the display container  260  and the products  268 . Also, such an arrangement of the display container  260  can more readily attract the attention of consumers. Furthermore, the display containers  260  may be position in close proximity to the display panel  134  so that consumers can readily access, obtain, and purchase products marketed by the display panel  134  or elsewhere on a display apparatus  100 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 7 , in accordance with some embodiments, the elevated signage portion  130  can include a horizontal support  136  that defines a plurality of channels  137   a - d  for receiving a number of display panels  134 , display racks  150 , and display containers  160  or  260 . In the example depicted, each of the channels  137   a - d  is generally u-shaped with each channel  137   a - d  having two opposing inner sides and a generally flat bottom surface. In some embodiments, the channels can be shapes other than u-shaped. For example, the channels can be partially v-shaped at the bottom. As previously described in connection with  FIG. 1 , the outer channels  137   a  and  137   d  are configured to receive one or more display racks  150  ( FIGS. 4A-B ), one or more display containers  160  ( FIGS. 5A-F ) or  260  ( FIGS. 6A-F ), or a combination thereof. For example, the display rack  150  can be mounted to the channel  137   a  to face toward a first aisle bordering the display apparatus  100  ( FIG. 1 ) while the display container  160  can be mounted to the channel  137   d  to extend toward a second opposing aisle bordering the display apparatus  100 . In some embodiments, the channels  137   a  and  137   d  can each receive a plurality of display racks  150  and display containers  160 ,  260  at the same time. 
     As previously described in connection with  FIGS. 4A-B , the display rack  150  includes the mounting portion  156  that is configured to engage the channel  137   a . The mounting portion  156  has front and rear surfaces for engaging the opposing inner sides of the channel  137   a  to create a friction fit. The friction fit can releasably secure the display rack  150  within the channel  137   a  while allowing the display rack  150  to be readily removed from the horizontal support  136  without the use of handheld tools. In some embodiments, the mounting portion  156  can posses a vertical length sufficient to allow the mounting portion  156  to contact the bottom surface of the channel  137   a  when the display rack  150  is retained by the channel  137   a . In some embodiments, the mounting portion  156  is not configured to contact the bottom surface of the channel  137   a.    
     As previously described in connection with  FIGS. 5A-F , the display container  160  includes the mounting clip  164  that is configured to engage the channel  137   d . The mounting clip  164  engages the opposing inner sides of the channel  137   d  to create a friction fit. The friction fit can releasably secure the display container  160  within the channel  137   d  while allowing the display container  160  to be readily removed from the horizontal support  136  without the use of handheld tools. In some embodiments, the mounting clip  164  can posses a vertical length sufficient to allow the mounting clip  164  to contact the bottom surface of the channel  137   d  when the display container  160  is retained by the channel  137   d . In some embodiments, the mounting clip  164  is not configured to contact the bottom surface of the channel  137   d . It should be understood from the description herein that the mounting tab  272  of the second display container  260  ( FIGS. 6A-F ) can also engage the channel  137   d  as described above. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 7 , in accordance with some embodiments, the inner channels  137   b  and  137   e  are configured to retain side-by-side display panels  134   c  and  134   d  respectively. As previously described in connection with  FIGS. 1-2 , each of the display panels  134   c - d  can include images and text of a front face for conveying information to consumers while the rear faces of the display panels  134   c - d  face inwardly toward one another. For example, the first display panel  134   c  can be mounted to the channel  137   b  to face toward the first aisle bordering the display apparatus  100  ( FIG. 1 ), and the second display panel  134   d  can be mounted to the channel  137   c  to extend toward the second opposing aisle bordering the display apparatus  100 . In some embodiments, the display panels  134   c - d  can retain embedded display windows as described above in connection with  FIGS. 2  and  3 . The channels  137   b  and  137   c  can be configured to be approximately the same width as the display panels  134   c  and  134   d . The channels  137   b  and  137   c  can secure the display panels  134   c  and  134   d  in an upright operative position by engaging the bottom edges of the display panels  134   c  and  134   d  with the bottom surfaces of the channels  137   b  and  137   c  and by contacting portions of the front and rear surfaces of the display panels  134   c  and  134   d  with the opposing inner surfaces of the channels  137   b  and  137   c . The display panels  134   c  and  134   d  are secured within the channels  137   b  and  137   c  by a friction fit to allow the display panels  134   c  and  134   d  to be readily removed from the horizontal support  136 . In some embodiments, the display panels  134   c  and  134   d  can be removed from the horizontal support  136  and replaced by other display panels that include different text or images, thereby altering the appearance of the display apparatus  100  without having to install an entirely new apparatus  100 . In other embodiments, the display panels  134   c  and  134   d  can be removed from the horizontal support  136  and placed in a different horizontal support  136  of the same display apparatus  100 . 
     Accordingly, as shown in  FIG. 7 , the horizontal support for each of the elevated signage portions  130  ( FIGS. 1-2 ) can define four channels  137   a - d  so as to provide attention-drawing signage on opposing sides of the display apparatus  100 . In other embodiments, the horizontal support  136  can include more or less than four channels. For example, the horizontal support  136  can include three channels. In such circumstances, the middle channel can retain a display panel with text, images, or both on both sides while the two outer channels can retain display racks and display containers as described above. As another example, the horizontal support can include five channels. In some embodiments in which the horizontal support includes five channels, the left most channel can retain a first display rack, the next two channels can retain first and second display panels, the fourth channel can retain a second display rack facing in the opposite direction of the first display rack and the fifth channel can retain a display container positioned in front of the second display rack. 
     A number of embodiments of the invention have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. 
     While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.