More Layouts for your Store Fixtures

One of the single most important objectives to opening your new retail store is how to layout your store display fixtures. How you lay out your displays can directly result in more or fewer sales.
Choosing your floor plan is your first consideration. We have discussed some before but there are several ways to design your floor plan, consider these;

• Straight Floor Plan -- An economical and efficient option, fixtures and displays will be at right angles leaving more space for selling your items. This plan also leaves your floor plan open to using a versatile selection of fixtures and displays.
• Angular Floor Plan -- Higher end stores use this method. There is actually less space available for products using the curves of this plan. It does, however, provide a sophisticated feel for the customer.
• Mixed Floor Plan -- A functional option using circular, diagonal, straight, and angular fixtures. If you want versatility, you may find this plan pleasing.
• Diagonal Floor Plan -- This plan is found most often in self-service stores.
• Geometric Floor Plan -- Apparel and clothing stores use this plan most often.

Another consideration is your aisles.  Size and placement of aisles are a necessary thought. A common width for aisles is 4 feet. This gives customers room to wander and view products without running into other customers or displays.

Where will you put your products and displays? Make sure your displays can carry the weight of the merchandise it will hold. The display should emphasize your product and highlight your brand. Incorporate some end caps or outposts to encourage impulse buying.

Your register should never go in the front of the store. Registers are a natural stopping point for customers and you want to keep the flow of shoppers near the front of the store. In the rear or left of the store is a great place for registers or check-outs. Always consider the register being in a place that can view the entire store easily.

Finally, visit stores where you enjoy shopping. Write down the pros and cons of those stores and use those notes to perfect your own store layout.