Commercial Space Setup for a Store
Setting up a commercial space is considered a good opportunity for starting a profitable business. Businesses of this kind have recently proven to be profitable, with the sales level of various products continuously increasing. However, competition in this field is as fierce as possible, with the battle for customers being fought not only in terms of costs but also in terms of the image that the entrepreneur manages to establish.
Whether it’s a grocery store, a clothing or footwear store, or an electronics and appliances store, it is necessary to follow some basic rules to achieve a high level of efficiency. Additionally, the role of modern technology in the proper setup of such a space should not be overlooked.
Thus, in the article below, you will discover useful information about the exterior and interior setup of a commercial space and learn about the advantages of using modern technology in a store-type space.
Contents:
- Exterior design of a commercial space
1.1. Designing the entrance of a commercial space
1.2. Designing the exterior display area of a commercial space
1.3. Arranging the Parking Area of a Commercial Space - Interior design ideas for a commercial space
2.1. Designing the shelving area in a commercial space
2.2. Arranging the Check-Out Area in a Commercial Space - Advantages of using modern technology in a store-type commercial space
1. Setting up the Exterior of a Commercial Space
The exterior area of a commercial space is the element with which a potential client first comes into contact. To convince them to visit the store, it is mandatory to undertake an approach that achieves several elements with the help of suitable design, including attracting attention, increasing visibility, and encouraging customers to visit the commercial space.
The most significant efforts must be made in the correct organization of the entrance space, both functionally and aesthetically, the store facade, including the exterior presentation area and the parking space intended for customers.
The exterior area of a commercial space is the element with which a potential client first comes into contact. To convince them to visit the store, it is mandatory to undertake an approach that achieves several elements with the help of suitable design, including attracting attention, increasing visibility, and encouraging customers to visit the commercial space.
The most significant efforts must be made in the correct organization of the entrance space, both functionally and aesthetically, the store facade, including the exterior presentation area and the parking space intended for customers.
1.1. Setting up the Entrance of a Commercial Space
- Achieving the functional role through access systems that can handle a large flow of customers every day. Depending on the expected influx, swing doors, automatic sliding doors, or revolving doors can be installed, all options being energy-efficient, maintaining the interior temperature at a comfortable level. In certain types of stores, special doors can be installed, allowing access for large objects or Blasi curved doors that offer an impressive image;
- Adequate lighting plays a role in creating a pleasant atmosphere and providing safety and visibility to customers. Typically, brand-specific elements, such as the logo or product displays, are placed in this area and must be correctly illuminated;
- Clear signage helps easily identify the access area. Sidewalk markings or indicator panels can be used to guide the flow of people towards the entrance;
- The access area must be in accordance with the expected customer flow. In stores with high traffic, large doors should be installed to allow the unobstructed entry and exit of all customers who cross their threshold.
1.2. Arranging the Exterior Presentation Area in a Commercial Space
The exterior presentation area has proven to be essential in convincing a person to become a customer. Without it, most people will move on because they cannot easily see what they can buy from inside. Increasing visibility and attracting customers into the store can be achieved through the following strategies:
- Creating attractive exterior showcases where key, popular, and appealing products are displayed. The best results are obtained when a strong visual design is created, with attractive colors and adequate lighting;
- Exterior electronic displays can provide a range of useful information regarding existing promotions, exclusive products, or irresistible offers. Customers are attracted to such elements and will certainly enter the store to take advantage of these offers;
- Exterior stands for presenting products or promotional offers can contribute to attracting customers. Placing them in visible areas with increased accessibility enhances the effectiveness of this approach;
- If exterior space is available, a waiting or relaxation area can be created for customers, where they can take a break before or after shopping. Placing promotional items in this area can convince visitors to become customers.
1.3. Arranging the Parking Area of a Commercial Space
Most store customers come shopping with their personal cars, and for this reason, it is mandatory to arrange a parking space. Depending on the size and layout of the store, one can opt for underground or above-ground parking or sidewalk parking if permitted. The parking area must be properly arranged with markings, road signs, and indicators to facilitate access. The law requires such spaces to have adequately marked spots reserved for people with disabilities to ease access to the store.
2. Ideas for Arranging the Interior of a Commercial Space
The interior of a store must be arranged in such a way that the customer experience is considered pleasant. Studies have shown that a relaxed person will shop more, and for this reason, business administrators of this type must create an attractive and functional environment that encourages exploration, purchasing, and a subsequent visit for the same purpose. Design and functional elements must establish a visual identity that reflects the brand and create an appropriate atmosphere through design coherence.
2.1. Arranging the Shelving Area in a Commercial Space
The shelving area in a commercial store is the most important, as it is where the products to be sold are made available to customers. To streamline the business, this area must be organized according to precise rules that have proven their value over time:
- The furniture must be chosen in accordance with the goods to be displayed. It thus has a functional role, supporting the goods, but also an aesthetic one, demonstrating continuous care for the people who cross the store’s threshold. Very often, a quality product at a good price is not sold due to inappropriate shelving;
- The arrangement of shelves must be done ensuring circulation spaces to avoid overcrowding. Additionally, distinct areas must be defined based on the different categories of products offered to customers;
- Shelves must be arranged in such a way as to establish a logical route for shoppers throughout the store. Attraction to certain areas can be achieved by placing attraction zones that are visible and easy to identify;
- The shelving area must be complemented by a fitting or experience area. Potential customers will be more encouraged to purchase products if they can try them to check their quality or functionality;
- Proper lighting of the shelves must be professionally done by combining general, ambient, and accent lighting. In this way, the customer’s gaze can be directed towards certain key products.
2.2. Arranging the Check-Out Area in a Commercial Space
The checkout area of a large or small commercial space is where shoppers interact directly with store staff. A positive experience in this area can convince people to return for another visit, while a negative experience is almost always a reason to turn to the competition.
When organizing the check-out area in a commercial space, certain aspects must be considered to increase customer satisfaction and create brand loyalty. In this regard, a comfortable space for customers should be provided, where flows are both fast and safe. To achieve these goals, the following elements will be considered:
- Checkout counters must be placed in visible and easily accessible locations. Customers should not have to search for the counters but should naturally reach their area at the end of the shopping experience. Additionally, the number of these counters should match the expected volume of people during peak periods. Waiting longer than a few minutes will discourage them;
- Cashiers’ workspaces must be well-organized and equipped with technology that allows for quick and accurate transaction processing. Additionally, cashiers should have ergonomic furniture available to ease static work for many consecutive hours. Adequate lighting of workspaces should be done to avoid shadows or reflections that would hinder proper transaction processing;
- The checkout area must have enough space for packing purchases and placing them in carts with ease.
3. Advantages of Using Modern Technology in a Store-Type Commercial Space
Store-type commercial spaces have ceased to be simple enclosures where products were placed and payments were made to the cashier. Nowadays, modern technology has become an integral part of the economic processes taking place in a store-type commercial space. These innovative elements bring benefits to both merchants, by easing activities, and customers, by accessing pleasant services that are conducted in good order.
Modern technology can bring elements to the commercial field, such as:
- Streamlining services by reducing waiting time at checkout, with the help of barcode scanners and contactless payments. Shorter time spent at the store exit increases customer satisfaction and encourages them to return for another shopping session;
- Digital interaction can facilitate the connection of customers with certain products or brands. Thus, QR codes can be placed on labels or even on the products themselves, which can be read via mobile phones and provide additional information that can lead to a purchase decision;
- Modern technology can also offer personalization of the purchasing experience. Data analysis can lead to determining certain customers’ preferences, allowing for personalized offers and suitable recommendations for each individual;
- Modern technology can contribute to obtaining a safe space for customers, employees, and goods inside. For example, automatic doors with break out system can be installed for rapid evacuation of people inside in case of danger. Another helpful element in this regard is represented by access turnstiles that regulate traffic or interior doors with burglary resistance, to protect areas with limited access;
- Energy efficiency is important in commercial spaces, as costs in this regard are quite significant. A solution can be the automation systems for windows and doors, thus offering administrators the possibility of remote control.
Innovations can be used in the commercial field to increase sales and customer loyalty. Digital marketing has proven to be very effective, especially when offered through social networks. In this way, the visibility of the business increases, and customers will be attracted in greater numbers.
Loyalty programs, which are based on mobile applications, are also helpful. Customers will return to the same store when they receive discount coupons, special access to certain offers, or rewards for their previous purchases. A successful trend lately is related to the integration of online elements into physical stores. Sales can be boosted through click and collect options or by allowing the return of online-purchased products in-store.
In conclusion, the arrangement of a commercial space like a store must be done according to precise rules in terms of functionality and design to increase visibility and attract as many customers as possible.
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