How to Design the Optimum Shop Layout

If you’re about to open a new retail store or plan to revamp an existing one, getting the layout right is essential. A well-designed shop not only improves the shopping experience for customers but can also significantly boost sales by making it easier for them to find products and make purchases. While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, certain layout strategies are proven to work better than others.

Consider a strategic floor layout

Your store’s layout plan plays a crucial role in shaping customer behaviour and influencing sales. Choosing the right structure depends on the products you’re selling, the size of your unit, and the experience you want to create. Here are four popular layout styles and their benefits:

• Grid Layout – You’ll see this type of layout in supermarkets, characterised by long, parallel aisles which form a grid-like pattern. It’s the most effective way to maximise product displays and is easy to navigate.

  
  

• Loop (Racetrack) Layout – Customers are guided along a racetrack-like route, passing by all merchandise before reaching the checkout. It’s a great way to ensure everything is seen in the store and encourages impulse buys.

  
  

• Free-Flow Layout – Popular among luxury retailers and high-end stores, free-flow layouts don’t confine customers to a specific route. They’re free to browse and explore the store however they choose.

  
  

• Herringbone Layout – Similar to the grid layout, the herringbone variant is designed for long, narrow spaces. There’s a single main walkway, running between the entrance and checkout, with shorter, angled aisles branching off on either side. It’s effective at creating distinct sections for different categories of products.

Image: FranConnect.com

Selecting the right layout helps ensure a seamless customer experience and can significantly boost conversion rates.

Maximise your wall space

Walls are high-value display areas, especially at eye level. Try to use a mix of display systems such as:

• Gridwalls – Display equipment used to show a variety of products. They are made of steel wire and form a grid pattern, which can easily be mounted on walls or used as freestanding units or shelves.

  
  

• Slatwalls – A type of wall panel with horizontal grooves that allow you to attach a variety of different accessories, such as hooks and shelves. It’s easily customisable and can maximise floor space.

  
  

• Twin slot shelving – A configurable system of shelves and wall-mounted brackets to display and store a variety of different products. They are easy to install and can be rearranged if needed.

Focus on the placement of elements

Every store has fixed elements, including doorways, columns, and natural lighting. These can be used to your advantage, helping guide customer movements or highlighting new displays. Most importantly, ensure all areas are safe. Hazards such as poor lighting or cluttered area can result in serious accidents, which could see customers filing a complaint due to injury.

Optimise the checkout areas

Your checkout zone isn’t just for transactions to take place; it’s also the final opportunity to make additional sales. Use floor stands or baskets to promote impulse buys like chocolates or small gifts, which can greatly boost basket value.

---

Modern Retail brings advice and inspiration to retailers to help them grow. Whether you’re just getting started, or looking to grow your retail business.