Britain’s high streets are changing and many retailers are experiencing a tough time. There’s fierce competition from online retailers combined with an economic downturn. There’s less money around and shops are competing with one another to get a share of that weekly spend. Succeeding in retail in tougher than ever.
It’s not all doom and gloom though and the high street is fighting back. There’s even government backing and celebrities are getting in on the act to champion the local high street and bring shoppers back. And the first green shoots of recovery are starting to manifest themselves.
Local town centre shopping is a unique experience. Stores need to give customers something they can’t get elsewhere – charming interiors and great service. Great retail design can transform a unit from a dull shell into a space where people will flock to spend their hard earned money.
Retail designers consider layout first and foremost. A store needs to be well designed and easy to navigate so shoppers can find what they are looking for quickly and easily. Just as importantly it needs to offer some sort of unique retail experience. If a store looks great and offers a bit of old fashioned charm then shoppers are prepared to pay a premium to shop there.
Good retail design is a real art form. It’s not easy to hit upon that winning formula, which is why it pays to bring in external consultants to give the place an overhaul. Competing with online retailers and discount stores isn’t about a race to the bottom in terms of price, it’s about offering something different. Retail designers can transform the fortunes of struggling high stores and help bring shoppers back through the doors.
to find out more go to www.barberdesign.co.uk
