Retail Store Design and Customer Satisfaction

A short, simplified guide

Retail stores prioritize several factors in design to satisfy customers

Among these include comfort and organization

All factors and elements must combine to create an atmosphere

conducive for shopping

Lighting for Emphasis

Here’s an example of a store making good use of lighting.

Notice that the merchandise display cases are well-lit, while the walls and the areas surrounding them are dimly lit and are not highlighted.

This way of designing a retail store is perfect for stores selling smaller items.

Straight Floor Plan

Usually employed by large department stores, this way of designing a retail establishment gives ample space for customers to run around and check the merchandise.

This also gives the store an orderly look and feel, since the merchandise is organized into rows and columns.

A Point of Emphasis

If the merchandise is lined up, they are all viewed by the customer on equal footing – there are no premiere or must-buy items, unless if you put a point of emphasis.

Though the arrangement in the picture may look unorganized, it shows the customers the premiere items – the ones displayed at the center of emphasis.

Visual and Verbal Cues

Aside from the products, customers need to be guided with verbal cues. Signs depicting sales, offers and other things that can benefit should certainly be held up and shown.

Also, be sure to show signs about where certain items are placed in order to guide your customers.

Music and Audio

A retail store without audio is dull, which is why you need to play good music.

What determines good music? Answer: the preferences of your customers.

Align your playlist with the preferences of your target audience, or with the product you’re selling. Stores targeting women should play songs likely to be liked by women!

Signage and Branding

If you can post the name of your store in every isle and corner, do so if you are striving for brand recognition.

Though it can get a bit annoying, this will ensure that store’s logo and name will forever be etched on the minds of your customers.

If you gave satisfying service, they’ll remember you!

Thank you for reading!All photos courtesy of Readyfit.com.au