Walking through any department store, it’s easy to assume that designing a show floor layout is easy. Of course the shirts go there and the shoes go over here – it seems only natural. But the truth is, it takes a lot of planning and replanning to get store displays just right.
Determining which items go on racks and which get folded onto shelves is the first step to creating an intuitive store layout.
To hang or fold?
There’s no definite answer to the age old question of hanging versus folding. It really depends on your store layout and merchandise. A luxury men’s clothing boutique will likely hang merchandise rather than fold – and potentially crease – expensive items. Likewise, children’s clothing is best displayed on hangers as well, so kids can see the child-friendly designs.
On the other hand, some materials lend themselves to folding. Retailers can easily display folded jeans and T-shirts on display tables. This increases the display capacity and detracts very little from the show floor’s aesthetic. In fact, folded clothing can look very professional.
For an in-depth look at the benefits of hanging and folding clothes, check out our discussion here.
Using vertical space
Slatwall displays let you use vertical space to your advantage.If you’re working with a smaller space, using vertical store fixtures can give you more room for visual merchandising – a concept that uses your merchandise as a marketing tool.
For example, if you’re selling a new collection of summer dresses, use slatwall displays to hang them up high where shoppers can see them from any vantage point. Add hanging paper decorations or display lights to draw shoppers’ attention upwards.
Look for other ways to leverage verticality in your store displays. Including visually interesting displays at different heights can encourage shoppers to explore and may make your shop feel bigger and fuller.
Know when to change things
Optimizing your store displays isn’t a permanent fix. In fact, you should consider changing, swapping, rotating and altering your displays somewhat regularly. Retail expert Bob Phibbs recommended switching out your big window displays on a monthly basis.
Experts have suggested changing at least one small display every day to add variety without completely disorienting your regular customers. If you keep impulse merchandise near the checkout counter, consider changing out your featured items weekly.
Clearance areas are prime candidates for a change-up. If customers see the same discount merchandise hanging on clearance racks week after week, you won’t persuade them to purchase. Know when to give up on items so you can refresh your shelves and start new promotions.
Need more assistance? Bring us your measurements! Our team of retail design experts can help you determine the optimal number of racks and shelves for your shop. Contact us today!
