Published: 20th Jan 2025
Planning the layout of your retail furniture has become something of a science. In fact, as experts, we can tell you that it will impact on your sales, operational efficiency and consumer behaviour – quite a lot to absorb if you’re new to the game.
However, the research doesn’t lie and, from creating product visibility to ensuring that shoppers have easy access to everything, your floor plan dictates their overall experience and influences how long they’re likely to stay.
To help you optimise your sell-through rate (STR) and retain customer loyalty, we’ve put together some strategic insights that will up your game.
3 Fun facts to incorporate into your decision-making process
If you’re wondering what motivates people to step into your shop and make a purchase, here are three things to think about:
76% of customers make their purchasing decisions in-store
It therefore stands to reason that helping them find the things you want them to buy is a very good idea. And layout has everything to do with it.
64% of shoppers won’t buy from a shop that looks disorganised
That’s pretty noteworthy and tells you a lot about the importance of order, cleanliness, flow and product visibility.
The mood and behaviour of a shopper is influenced by sensory stimuli
Aside from your retail furnishings, you also need to consider incorporating lighting, music and fantastic smells. In other words, put on a classic, spotlight your countertop displays and get those fresh pies out and in full view – you’ll have them lingering for longer than they intended.
With the above in mind, it’s time to take a deeper dive into some strategies that really work.
Retail tricks that will optimise your sales
From wholesome farm stores to chic delis, there are a number of things that will get your patrons through your door and spending money. Let’s start from the outside in.
1. Pay attention to the exterior of your shop
Did you know that 76% of people will step into your store based on your signage? Added to that, great window displays could increase your walk-ins by a whopping 23% and will influence sales for those products around 24% of the time.
In short, you rarely get a second chance to make a first impression and, with personalisation as a key consumer motivator in 2025, your ethos, values and key offerings should be easily determined at first sight.
2. Make your decompression zone count
The area that your customer first steps into is called a decompression zone and allows them to adjust to the interior of your space. And one thing’s for sure, you want them to like it.
Aim for a calm, welcoming vibe and keep it clear of excessive signage and overenthusiastic assistants – after all, it’s about encouraging browsing, not making people run for the hills!
As a final note, most consumers turn right after entering the shop and adopting this as part of your layout is the first step to getting your flow right.
3. Focus on space optimisation
Figure out ways to make every square foot count, especially if you have a small shop. You can do this by using modular shelving and investing in fixtures that make use of vertical space.
Take a look at our range of beautiful retail display stands for inspiration and find solutions that aesthetically suit the look and feel of your theme.
4. Plan for adaptation
Keep things versatile with multi-purpose fixtures that will allow you to make changes to accommodate growth, changing products, current trends and different seasons.
Our BRIX® modular display system is an absolute winner for this, allowing you to build and rebuild units as your business transforms. It also comes in pre-configured collections aimed at those who are just beginning their retail journey and is a must-have for pop-up shops and market stands.
5. Aim to be sustainable
With shoppers becoming far more conscious about the environment, including how and where they purchase their produce, sustainability is more than just a buzz word.
Look out for fittings that embrace this by using materials like wood, metal, glass and marble – it’s a trend that’s here to stay, so complying now will see you through the long haul.
6. Capitalise on impulse buying
Research shows that the placement of your products plays a huge role in encouraging people to purchase items that never featured on the shopping list. And, as the end of your aisles get more foot fall than the rest of it, it’s a prime spot for bestsellers and promotions.
Added to that, products at eye level or just below get the most attention. So, if you want to double up on sales, pair up complimentary products and place them one above the other – it's a foolproof combination.
7. Spotlight seasonal goods and make a campaign out of them
Seasonal campaigns are a surefire way to boost sales throughout the year as consumers flock to buy those all-important Valentine’s chocolates, Easter eggs, Mother’s and Father’s Day hampers and Christmas puddings.
Think about including areas where countertops and moveable carts can be used to capture this booming market. And make sure your displays are creative – visual merchandising can up sales by a whopping 540%.
8. Always make a grand exit
Checkout points are the ideal place for streamlined displays that will tempt exhausted shoppers into one last buy. They should also be designed to offer a seamless experience and leave that lasting impression that will have people coming back for more.
If your space is limited, dump bins are a great option.
And don’t forget about those all-important fabric bags, because not only are they a thoughtful gesture that alleviates last-minute stress, but personalised ones will provide extended brand awareness that will be flaunted all over town.
Let our experts help you conceptualise your retail space
With our fabulous BRIX® offering and a wealth of other retail display furniture that will enhance any layout, we’re here to make your shop look like a million bucks. Connect with our team today or book in to visit our showroom, where you can experience everything firsthand.