In an age where online shopping is the new norm, well thought out retail design has the power to attract customers back in-store – but what does it involve?
Although ever looming inflation figures have many of us feeling nervous, Australian consumers are back and shopping with a vengeance. In fact, retail sales were almost 18% higher in September 2022 when compared to the same period just twelve months ago, spelling good news for outlets hoping for a pre-Christmas boom.
Despite this, the Australian retail industry still has many mountains to climb if operators want to stay in business for the long term. While it is still a $239.1 billion dollar industry in the Land Down Under, retailers have been forced to re-examine their legacy systems and strategies that have shaped the industry for years, especially if they want to compete against the likes of Amazon.
Thankfully, good retail design is one strategy that can be used alongside quality products and world class customer service as a means to attract and retain customers. Like it or not, the overall look and function of your shopfront says a lot about your business, so what key factors should you consider for a fitout?
Five Key Retail Design Factors To Consider
The concept for a shop or retail fitout is that the racks, windows, display centres, layout and the entire retail design should seamlessly flow together in a space that is both aesthetically appealing and effective. This type of renovation is usually conducted when a retailer wants to give their existing building a facelift or if they instead choose to move into an entirely new premises.
With infinite retail design choices at your disposal, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. Thankfully, the good news is that good retail design will almost always include a few key basics that can enhance any space.
Incorporate Branding – Business branding is the visual representation of your company’s brand identity. It communicates who you are as a company, helps customers understand what you’re all about and makes you easily identifiable. As such, ensure that your retail design includes key colour palettes, typography and logos tied to your business branding.
Consider Your Layout – When planning the store layout of your retail design, keep the customer’s journey at the forefront. If you want a seamless and comfortable transition, a classic staple is to place change rooms at the back of the store to ensure that a walk-in customer has to stroll past all of your displays and product offerings.
Focus On Lighting – When possible, try to incorporate natural lighting in your retail design. Not only is it proven to boost the mood of your shoppers, but it also helps with the productivity of your employees. If you have restrictions with this, use LED lighting to boost your energy efficiency while still ensuring that customers can see what they’re doing.
Create Engaging Displays – One major advantage that a physical retail outlet has over online traders is the ability to display products. Particularly relevant for window displays, be sure to incorporate space in your retail design for visual merchandising opportunities. Not only will this help to draw potential customers into your shop, but it’s also great for upselling.
If you’re moving forward with a new commercial fitout for your brand or business, be sure to have a thorough plan of attack before you start shopping for materials. Along with futureproofing your business, giving your workplace a facelift is a simple way to wow your clients, visitors and customers alike, while also potentially cutting down on expenses over the long term.
Partner With The Experts On Commercial Fitouts
Whether you’re considering a residential or commercial facelift, it’s always important to speak to a professional before you start tearing down a wall or two. In operation for over ten years, Brisbane based Kibo Constructions believe that quality, reliable workmanship with an honest approach shouldn’t be the exception to the rule.
With a wealth of experience in commercial fitouts already under our belts, our in house joinery provides access to having your very own custom home furniture and features such as tables, desks, shelves and drawers to fit any space or design requirements necessary. By working closely with our clients, we ensure that the entire process is both a transparent and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
If you know that there’s an upcoming project for you, your brand or your business, we would love the opportunity to provide a quote – you might be pleasantly surprised at the result. As we specialise in commercial, hospitality and residential fit out options in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, please get in touch to discuss how we can bring your vision to life.