If you are a retailer, you already know that in-store design is a critical aspect and change is part and parcel of attracting shoppers. One could say that a store interior is never ‘complete’, rather it is a work in progress and with that in mind, here are a few tips to transform your retail space.

• Retail traffic patterns – There has been a lot of research into retail traffic patterns and this can help you with product placement. One surprising aspect was the discovery that road traffic actually influences whether the consumer turns to the right or left. In the US, for example, shoppers tend to turn to the right and walk anti-clockwise, while UK and Australian shoppers move to their left in a clockwise direction.
• No products in the decompression zone – Ask any seasoned retailer and they will confirm that you should avoid displaying products in the decompression zone; the space directly inside the store entrance. The best solution is to hire a top fitout company such as https://www.officefitoutsaustralia.com.au/, where excellence is guaranteed. Their team can take your concept, improve on it and the standard of workmanship is top notch, leaving you with a stunning new interior.
• Break signage – Long aisles mean shoppers move quickly and they will miss at least 30% of your stock that is on display. You should create signage that attracts the eye, which slows down the shopper; you have likely seen speedbumps inside large stores, which are designed to slow down the shopper; there are other ways to attract the consumer’s attention as they move through the store. If you are looking to create a corporate video, here are a few tips.
• Use QR codes – While not all shoppers scan QR codes, some do and this is an easy way to find out more about a product. Simply scan the code with your smartphone and the information pops upon your screen; create stunning graphics and use professional sales copy for this. Using QR codes allows you to keep signage down to an acceptable level and this trend will grow.
• Create a nice Instagram backdrop –Once shoppers see a corner with a stunning background, they will take a few shots and this promotes your store. Rather than not permitting in-store photography, you should encourage shoppers to use their cameras; some store owners focus on their Facebook or Instagram page and create competitions, which drums up interest.
• Use digital signage – Small screens can loop promo videos and text can be rolled from left to right, informing shoppers of deals or special offers. Talk to a leading Australian fitout company and see what they have in the way of digital signage.
• Regular display updates – Regular shoppers prefer change after a while; many stores change displays on a quarterly basis, which is about right. Seasonal changes are usually enough to ensure that your interior is appealing.

If the time has come for a major refit, search online for a leading store fit out contractor and talk to their design team. The Australian government does offer support for small retail businesses, which is worth checking out.