Costs associated with fitting out a retail store are high at the best of times, combine that together with high rental costs, and bricks and mortar stores can become a costly exercise. And any money that is invested into the fitout, obviously needs to be recovered in sales.
So how can retailers create a fitout, that has the right finishes, and brand appeal to suit their target market, whilst at the same time being savvy with their fit-out costs?… It is possible – and it’s all about being clever with the design, understanding where it is worth investing costs, and where it is best to be thrifty. It is also about having a thorough knowledge of the materials available, and understanding durability vs. cost.
Here’s some ways you can start to consider, and get clever with your retail fitout design:
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Custom vs. Off the shelf options – this is one great way where costs can be saved. It may be worth investing in a few custom pieces throughout your fitout, but avoid customising elements that may not be as noticeable. Items that are worth looking at purchasing off the shelf may include – clothing racking or shelving. You can put highlight feature pieces, or custom pieces between your generic racking and in the entry to your store to create a more personal and customise experience.
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Order in multiples – when manufacturing, it will always be a cost saving if you are making a larger purchase, so consider buying for multiple stores that may occur down the track, rather than one store at a time, if this is a feasible option for your business.
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Utilize strong graphics – Great graphics (recommend a graphic designer!)… can create a huge impact in your retail store. Graphics can not only be used in your marketing, but also on your walls!… consider creating a huge mural or a custom wallpaper. However, ensure the graphics selected will allow for longevity, and won’t look tired after a short amount of time.
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Retain and work with existing finishes within the site – Look at the floors, ceiling treatment, lighting, shopfront, walls and back of house. Can you work with what is currently there, with a refresh rather than a demo and rebuild?….. if the item is in good condition, it is a guaranteed way to save cost if you can refresh with paint, wallpaper, a sand and recoat, or application of new finishes over. You should take all of this into account when reviewing a site for lease. The more you can re-use, the more you will be able to save on your fit-out.
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Retain your shopfront – Replacing glazing and entry points can be quite a costly exercise – where possible retain your existing point of entry, and instead look at retreating your shopfront finishes and graphics.
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Get multiple quotes – This is standard practice for retail design, but it’s an important process, no matter how trusted your trades are. Generally, aim to get 3 quotes builders/shopfitters. That will allow you to compare all prices and ensure you are getting the best deal.
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Research finishes options – There are many alternate options out there that can produce a very similar result, for example – timber floorboards vs. vinyl / timber treatments vs veneer or laminate or leather vs vinyl. The key is – do your research, speak to suppliers and compare costs, or invest in a designer that can assist you.
There are many ways that strong and bold retail solutions can be produced, to great effect and on a budget. Be clever with where you invest your funds, invest in items that can be re-used and that won’t date, or key pieces that will add to the overall ambience and experience. And always design with your target customer in mind.
Amy Gray
Interior Designer
