maximizing minimal
In the world of retail, size matters. While large, sprawling stores might catch the eye, it’s often small spaces that hold the most potential for innovation and creativity. And higher profit per square foot. With limited square footage comes a unique set of challenges. Ugh.
How can you max these compact spaces and deliver a top notch exceptional experience?
Can changing the layout or product placement change the SPLH (sales per labor hour)?
13 seconds
Small retail spaces may seem limiting. Every inch counts, and each element must be meticulously planned to maximize functionality and aesthetics. Retail designers specialize in navigating constraints, transforming cramped locations into inviting, efficient, and visually stunning environments. We meticulously weigh the needs, wants, compliance musts and strategically place each product where they will sell best.
The key to making a small space successful is often encouraging meandering and wandering- with many stop points. On average, it takes a customer 13 seconds to make a decision to buy a product instore. Encouraging meandering encourages multiple 13 second decisions which of course means multiple purchases. Creating displays of different types, lighting, color, heights and depths will encourage the customer to explore. Adding protective glass can also add to a products perceived value. “If it’s behind glass, it must be valuable or expensive.”
seventy %
Simply stocking shelves with merch and product is not enough to attract and retain customers. Consumers crave experiences that engage their senses and spark emotions. Retail interior designers understand the importance of making memorable experiences with the given space. Every aspect of the store is carefully curated to leave a lasting impression on shoppers.
70% of purchase decisions are made in store. (Some research says this can be as high as 86%). This is very important to all retailers, but especially dispensaries. It is easy to rely on web sales, pre orders and social media but in actuality the majority of sale decisions happen in person, in store.
balancing- form | function
One of the biggest challenges in small retail spaces is finding the balance between form and function. While aesthetics are important for creating an inviting atmosphere, practical considerations such as traffic flow, storage solutions, legal compliance and accessibility cannot be overlooked. A great example of this is the dreaded man trap, aka entry vestibule. They’re usually drab and take up sales floor square footage. Yet they are required in many states for cannabis compliance. Retail interior designers excel at finding creative solutions that marry form and function seamlessly, ensuring that every design element serves a purpose without sacrificing style, even the man trap. It can become a welcoming amuse bouche of the store they’re about to enter, a first encounter with friendly staff and a comfortable transition from parking lot to retail space when professionally designed.
tech and innovation
In today’s digital age, technology plays a vital role in enhancing the retail experience. From interactive displays to mobile checkout solutions, retailers have access to a wide range of tools and technologies that can elevate their small spaces to new heights. Retail interior designers stay at the forefront of these advancements, integrating technology and innovation into their designs to create immersive and personalized experiences for customers. When space is at a premium, It’s important to not rely solely on digital screens but to use them as a supplemental tool carefully.
thoughts…
Small retail spaces can present unique challenges, but with the expertise of your designer, these limitations can be transformed into opportunities for creativity and innovation. By embracing constraints, creating memorable experiences, balancing form, legal compliance and function, leveraging technology and innovation, retail interior designers play a crucial role in maximizing the potential of small spaces and helping retailers thrive in today’s competitive market.
If you find yourself facing the challenge of a small retail space, not sure where to start, remember the transformative power of design and consider enlisting the expertise of a pro. With our industry insider knowledge, experience, and creative vision, we turn your compact store into a destination that leaves a lasting impression on customers and sets you apart from the competition.
