INTRODUCTION, The Small Terminology Mistake That Costs You Money
You walk into a printer and say:
“I need poster size paper.”
And they ask
“Which size?”
A1? A2? A0? 30×40 inches? Large format?
Here’s what most business owners don’t realise:
“Poster size” isn’t one single size.
And using the wrong term can lead to:
- Ordering the wrong dimensions
- Poor visibility
- Wasted marketing budget
Meanwhile, your competitor is confidently ordering the correct format and getting noticed.
Let’s clear this up properly.
What Is Poster Size Paper Called?
In the UK, poster size paper is usually called:
👉 A1, A2, or A0 paper
👉 Or simply Large Format Paper
There isn’t one official “poster size.”
Instead, posters follow the ISO A-series system, which includes:
| Poster Size Name | Dimensions (cm) | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| A3 | 29.7 × 42 cm | Small indoor posters |
| A2 | 42 × 59.4 cm | Event & café displays |
| A1 | 59.4 × 84.1 cm | Shop window posters |
| A0 | 84.1 × 118.9 cm | Large promotional displays |
Here’s the twist
When most people say “poster size,” they usually mean A1.
What Do Printers Call Poster Size?
Professional printers typically use these terms:
- Large format print
- Wide format printing
- A1 poster
- A2 poster
- Display print
- POS (Point of Sale) display print
If you simply ask for “poster paper,” they’ll likely ask for dimensions.
Because “poster size” depends entirely on purpose and visibility.
If you’re unsure whether A3 or A2 is suitable, see our guide on Are posters A3 or A2? for a deeper breakdown.
Why Understanding Poster Paper Size Matters
This isn’t just about terminology.
It’s about impact.
Authority bias tells us something important:
Larger prints signal importance.
That’s why serious retail promotions rarely use A4 or small formats.
5 Benefits of Using the Right Poster Paper
- Stronger Visibility → Prevents customers walking past
- Better Readability → Avoids cluttered design
- Higher Perceived Value → Stops your brand looking small
- Improved Conversion → Turns attention into action
- Smarter Budget Use → Avoids reprinting mistakes
Loss aversion truth:
If your competitor upgrades to A1 large format and you stay with A4
They dominate attention.
The #1 Mistake Most Businesses Make
Designing in A4 then scaling it up to “poster size.”
Here’s what happens:
- Fonts look too small
- Layout feels unbalanced
- Images lose quality
- White space disappears
Professional designers build layouts specifically for final print dimensions.
That’s why businesses working with experienced providers like Social Media Max often see better results from their poster campaigns.
If you’re planning a high-visibility promotion, our large format printing service ensures correct sizing, material choice, and finish.
When Should You Use Each Poster Size?
Choose A3 if:
- It’s indoors
- Viewing distance is under 2 metres
- It’s informational
Choose A2 if:
- It’s for events
- You want moderate impact
- It’s displayed at eye level
Choose A1 if:
- It’s for shop windows
- You need street visibility
- It’s a key promotion
If you wait to optimise size, your competitor might already be testing larger formats.
And attention goes to whoever stands out first.
Before vs After
Before:
“Poster size” requested vaguely. Wrong scale printed. Low engagement.
After:
Correctly specified A1 large format. Clear message. Increased foot traffic.
The terminology alone can protect your marketing budget.
Final Thoughts
So, what is poster size paper called?
In the UK, it’s typically referred to as:
- A1 paper
- A2 paper
- A0 paper
- Or simply large format poster paper
“Poster size” isn’t a single measurement.
It’s a strategic decision.
And the right size can transform how your brand is perceived.
👉 Ready to grow your business with professional poster printing?
Contact Social Media Max today.
Don’t wait your competitors won’t.