Whether you’re a first-time shop owner or a longstanding business with plenty of experience, the one thing you have to be constantly aware of is change. From modern technology and economic shifts to consumer tastes, shop layouts and social media influences, the independent food and drink sector requires flexibility. And that means comprehending (and navigating) the trends.
According to the latest data, visual merchandising influences sales by up to 30%, making it a key factor in your profitability. Here are some notable numbers.
- 73% of customers will return to a well-designed shop
- Shoppers spend 20% more time in an outlet if it looks good
- 70% of consumer decisions are made at point of sale
- Interactive displays boost product engagement by around 40%.
Add seasonal marketing, ecommerce and experiential promotions to the mix, and it’s clear that staying ahead means going with the flow.
This blog takes a deeper dive into influences that will affect the retail arena in 2025 and what you should be doing about them. In other words, it’s all about the BRIX® you need to succeed.
Six key factors that impact transitions in the retail landscape
To fully understand the current shifts, you’ll need to be cognizant of the following aspects of retail marketing.
1. Technology
Data analytics allow you to get a statistical overview of customer buying patterns, which in turn allows you to tailor their shopping experience to better suit their needs.
2. Consumer expectations
From generational shifts to public demands (like the call for sustainability, ethical practices and convenience), your patrons drive the way you market to them.
3. Social media platforms
There’s no getting away from the fact that this is a double-edged sword. Not only do prominent networks influence what’s hot and what’s not, but they can also make or break you depending on how well you fit into those spectrums.
4. Omnichannel shopping opportunities
If you subscribe to ecommerce, shoppers have an opportunity to browse online or on their mobiles, compare prices and then make a purchase either in-store or via a website. With that much intel at hand, you need to be very aware of what your competition is doing.
5. Personalisation
From branded merch to immersive experiences, customers want to feel heard and included. Finding different ways to do that means that you constantly have to refresh your strategy.
6. The economy
Both your choice in commodities and your pricing framework will be determined by the cost of living, geopolitical episodes and fluctuations in the economy. And, if you want to survive, you have no choice but to adjust accordingly.
How shop layouts are evolving in 2025
If you’re serious about success, it’s time to do away with tradition and embrace making your store a lifestyle destination. This means optimising your space to accommodate immersive experiences without compromising on aesthetics.
Here are some of the focal points you should be considering:
In-store dining areas
Farm shops, delis and garden centers are creating zones where patrons can stop for a bite to eat during their shopping expeditions. It’s a concept that could also be employed if you’re a wine merchant or brewery, especially if you’ll be offering tasting events and want to pair them with great food.
Sustainability
Whatever your layout, consumers are looking for signs that you have sustainability protocols in place. It therefore might be time to reassess what type of retail furniture and countertop display units you’re using and find something made from responsibly sourced materials.
Seasonal display sections
Planning product-based promotions for every seasonal event is a persuasive way to drive engagement and sales. To attract attention, your displays need to be eye-catching and relevant – so make sure you designate some shelf space in a high-traffic area to the cause.
Pop-up stands
Adaptable retail solutions that can be used in temporary settings are a growing trend, giving you greater reach and the ability to explore new opportunities without spending a fortune. If you subscribe to this practice, you’ll need easy-to-assemble furniture that can be morphed into different layouts.
Multi-purpose furniture
Shop owners are now leaning towards fixtures that can be reconfigured when needed, giving them the flexibility to change their floorplans to accommodate new stock, yearly facelifts and dynamic point-of-sale setups.
Why our modular retail furniture will change your perspectives
Keeping up with the (retail) Joneses can be an expensive endeavour because, let’s face it, shop fixtures aren’t cheap. But what if we told you we had a DIY solution that requires no tools, is super adaptable and will grow with your business?
Sounds impossible? Not when you have BRIX®.
What it comprises
This sustainable, modular display system is designed to be built and rebuilt for every occasion, allowing you to redefine your spaces whenever you like.
Fundamentally made up of a series of elements that include building blocks, units, shelves, countertops, plinths and a wide range of adaptable components, you can design just about any retail landscape imaginable.
How it works
Easy to assemble, the entire system is put together using connectors, so you don’t need nails, screws or a degree in engineering.
By eliminating shopfitters, gadgets and instruction manuals, you can start off small and expand your furniture as required. As you’ll agree, that’s a bonus for your budget.
Noteworthy features
Whether you opt for something pre-built or decide to construct your own formations, there are lots of options that will simplify your life and turn heads. Here are just a few:
- shop-in-the-round island display units
- modular wine walls with bottle shelves and storage compartments
- charcuterie display racks and meat hooks
- tilted bakery stands
- pop-up bar units with glass hanging racks
- kiosks
- gravity display units complete with Eco Flo bins
- hanging shelves
- market carts.
Ideal in-store or at markets and trade shows, most of these concepts can be put together in less than an hour, making it a must-have if you’re serious about expanding your reach.
Talk to our team
We’re all about pioneering workable retail solutions and have spent over 30 years partnering with food and drinks businesses to make their packaging, gifting and retail displays as good as it gets.
To find out more, call our sales gurus today. They have what it takes to build your future... one BRIX ® unit at a time.
