
In the United States, the retail market is an industry worth over $5 trillion, and it keeps growing.
A lot of money has gone into retail store design to make it as efficient as possible. There are ways to draw customers through a store for maximum value. The effect that layout has on shoppers has been studied for decades by major corporations such as Walmart.
Here is what you need to know about designing a retail store for you and your customers.
Common Design Types
There are four main design ideas when it comes to how to layout a retail store. Each one has advantages and disadvantages. The layout you choose will have a lot to do with the space available and what products you are selling.
The Racetrack
Also known as the loop, this design draws customers in one direction through the store. Often it features broader, open areas to one side. Stores with this design scheme will have a sizeable back aisle that features prominent items.
The goal is to draw the customers in the same direction through the store. This way, you can control what they see and when they see it. This allows you to place high-value merchandise near the core aisles.
The Grid
As the name suggests, the grid is set up with long rows going in a single direction through the store. This brings customers into contact with the maximum amount of items possible. Pharmacies and supermarkets often use this design technique.
The Herringbone
This design scheme is favored by shops that are long and narrow. It involves having a single, larger aisle down the center and other aisles branching off from it. This is often used by bookstores and smaller retail shops where space is at a premium.
Free Flow
A free flow design is the most unique as it can feature a vast array of different layouts. The core theme is that you rely on customer trends and behavior to direct traffic. If done right, this can mean that impulse items will get a lot of attention.
The Impulse Buy
The entire purpose of retail store design and design tips is to encourage the sale of specific items. These are often high markup impulse buys. That means customers didn’t come into the store expecting to get them.
To have the best effect on customers, consider all aspects of interior design. Retail management can utilize a variety of ideas based on the design of the store. To make the best experience possible, get these commercial scent diffusers and other amenities ready.
Retail Store Design
The choice you make will determine a lot about your store. How customers feel and how they shop is determined by retail store design. A lot of decisions will have to be made before you can finalize your design and continue forward.
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