Retail Focus May/June 2020 #113 by Retail Focus

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IN THIS together Retailers prepare for the new normal post covid-19

CELEBRATING RETAIL INNOVATION SHAPED DIGITAL SCREENS

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Made In The UK

COVID-19 | PPE & Signage For Kickstarting The UK

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CONTENTS

COVID-19 ISSUE

CONTACT: Terry Clark terry@retail-focus.co.uk Lee Cullumbine lee@retail-focus.co.uk

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CELEBRATING - NETWORKING - WINNING 21 RELIC 42architecture 09 good news

a night like no other 21-22 Project Focus 35 Feature

09-11 Good News

03-14 Brand Values 16-17 Feature POP & POS

Relic, Melbourne

24-25 Project Focus

Emergence Retail

Daduâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Hyperbad

27-28 Project Focus Bread Ahead, London

Cover image: The Rebel Bear / Unsplash.com/ccbotanic

Feature Consumerism

Feature Media Architecture

CELEBRATING - NETWORKING - WINNING

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GOOD news GOOD

NEWS Kesslers converts deliver protective equipment for retailers and the NHS Kesslers, who are headline sponsors of the 2020 Creative Retail Awards, were able to deploy their decades of experience to shift to manufacturing the new products. At the start of the COVID-19 crisis, Kesslers’ management contacted its retail partners to offer their support and received orders for the packs from Sainsbury’s and Poundland among others. In total, Kesslers has produced over 20,000 individual pieces of protective equipment working with installation partners nationwide. Kesslers has secured enough material to ensure that the production of these items can continue for months. Aside from supporting retailers, Kesslers is also supplying vital PPE equipment including visors, gowns and masks to eight NHS trusts, police forces including Bristol and South Wales, and a number of care homes. In total, Kesslers has supplied over 200,000 units of PPE.

John Lewis & Waitrose launch soft toy design competition John Lewis and Waitrose have launched a soft toy design competition for children around the UK to raise critical funds for the NHS. With homeschooling recommencing across the nation, the retailer is inviting children (and adults) to create and share their designs for a “super-bear” cuddly toy that celebrates the spirit and fortitude of the fearless men and women working on the frontline during the Covid-19 crisis. The winning design will be turned into an exclusive Christmas toy and sold by Waitrose and John Lewis from October, following in the footsteps of a number of beloved characters from the retailer. For kids to enter the competition, they will need to ask an adult over the age of 18 to enter via email or via Instagram or Twitter on their behalf. Participants must send a design of a toy via email or post a design of a toy using the hashtag #DesignYourSuperBear on Instagram or Twitter.

GOOD FlashNEWS to go

here

Moss makes PPE and will soon make 6 million face masks per week In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Moss Inc. has expanded its global manufacturing capabilities to include highspeed automated production for Personal Protective Equipment. Moss’s new fleet of proprietary manufacturing technology can produce a total global output of 1.2 Million face masks per day. Moss will scale capacity in Europe and North America to produce a global output of 3 Million masks a week by June and reach 6 Million masks per week by August. In planning the plant, the partners considered the entire supply chain from the production of the required materials to certification and supply chain management. As soon as the first prototype is completed, it will be optimized further by Fraunhofer IPT in order to scale and automate the production of the face masks. “Textiles and stitching have been a part of the Moss legacy since the 1950s. We’re proud to take these new production steps to help fight the COVID-19 pandemic and to secure ample, competitively-priced supply for global public health needs,” said Dan Patterson, President & CEO of Moss.

THG donates 25 tonnes of PPE to Greater Manchester NHS The Hut Group, the global, consumer brand & proprietary technology group pre-eminent in Beauty and Wellness, has donated 3.5 million units of personal protective equipment (PPE) to the health and care system in Greater Manchester. Utilising its global supply chain, in recent weeks Manchester-based THG has sourced more than 25 tonnes of medical-grade PPE and is airfreighting the goods to the UK, with the project worth £2 million. Matthew Moulding, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of THG, said: “NHS and frontline workers are doing an outstanding and vital job to protect people in the UK. It is only right that we play our part and utilise THG’s global network to source, buy and donate essential PPE. We want to show our appreciation and play our part in helping keep them safe.

GOOD NEWS

Hello Flamingo help plug the gap of vital PPE supplies Hello Flamingo knew that while it was necessary to go into ‘hibernation’ for day to day operations, they strongly felt that they should utilise the assembly facilities at their disposal. Together with a crew of eager and available volunteers, and the space to work safely, Hello Flamingo stepped in to help plug the gap of vital PPE supplies, urgently required by many

frontline NHS teams, up and down the UK. The owners of Hello Flamingo, Roo and Paula funded the initial budget to manufacture 1200 protective face shields. These were donated immediately to NHS teams from Brighton to Nottingham, and all the way to Sunderland!

STYLO PRODUCE PPE AND SHARE VITAL KNOWLEDGE TO HELP PPE EFFORT Stylo, along with the rest of the world, had never known times like this. The COVID-19 situation threw us into shock and uncertainty and forced us to re-think how we go about doing things. Stylo wanted to help those in urgent need, and you could not miss the global plea for PPE equipment across all NHS facilities, frontline carers, and the like. Stylo began making the face shields. Using materials already in stock, they were

able to make several hundred masks and donate them to Watford General hospital and doctors’ surgeries local to their offices. Stylo produced as many as they could with the materials available and now the total PPE distributed has risen to over a thousand. The company also shared their cut files to over one hundred companies for them to make their own shields and distribute locally.

Storefront joins the fight against Covid-19 STOREFRONT is offering to help those combating coronavirus to find empty spaces in key locations. Governmental bodies, NHS trusts and charities are all attempting to mobilise and expand their operations. One stumbling block has been access to empty and available space for storage, accommodation and logistics. With a huge network of landlords and venues across London, Storefront is uniquely placed to help these organisations find empty buildings in relevant areas. Storefront CEO, Mohamed Haouache, said: “As the global crisis has escalated we have been racking our brains as to how we could potentially help. “We are not doctors nor are we involved in the creation, supply or distribution of essential goods. We match people with spaces and venues to meet their needs..

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How to support staff with cancer Did you know that an estimated one in three people with cancer in the UK are of working age? Research by Macmillan Cancer Support found that 87% of people who are working at diagnosis say it’s important to them to keep doing so.1 The effect of cancer and its treatment on someone’s ability to work can vary widely. Some people keep working, and others may need time off or may need to leave work completely. The impact of cancer After treatment, many people recover well and can go back to their normal working life. But having the illness and recovering from it can have a big physical and emotional impact. Employers need to consider how they can support people to return to work and support them over time. You may not think of cancer as a long-term condition, but some treatments leave people with long-term side effects. For example, they may experience fatigue for months and sometimes years. After breast surgery, they may have pain in their arm. They may need to use the toilet more often if they’ve had bladder or bowel cancer treatment.

Keep the conversation going Macmillan found that one in ten people with cancer employed when diagnosed felt the need to cover up cancer symptoms, like fatigue and sickness, at work.2 So it’s important for line managers to keep talking to employees to make sure they are getting the support they need and know that it’s ok to ask for it. Legal obligations Cancer is classed as a disability under the Equality Act 2010 and the Disability Discrimination Act 1995. That means employers are required to make reasonable adjustments to make it easier for someone with cancer to work. Support for employers Macmillan at Work offers workplace training, guidance and resources to help managers and HR professionals feel confident and equipped to support employees affected by cancer. Find out more about how our expertise can help you. Sign up at macmillan.org.uk/atwork Email us at workandcancer@macmillan.org.uk Or call us on 020 7840 4725

1, 2 YouGov Plc. Total sample size was 1,507 respondents who were in work when diagnosed with cancer. Fieldwork was undertaken between 29/06/2018 – 22/07/2018. The survey was carried out online. Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. Printed on sustainable materials. Please recycle. MAC15903_10.19

MAC15903 MAW ad_275x205_Advert_1.indd 3

11/11/2019 16:29

How luxury brands are helping in the fight against coronavirus Photography: Daniel Salemi

brand values RALPH LAUREN The Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation has made a donation to The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity that will enable The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust to purchase a specialist machine to test for COVID-19, building on its long-standing collaboration with the world leading cancer centre in London. The fashion brand has committed $10 million to help teams, partners and communities impacted by the coronavirus pandemic through the Emergency Assistance Foundation for Ralph Lauren and the World Health Organisation COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund. In addition, the Ralph Lauren Corporation has also begun the production of 250,000 masks and isolation gowns. On a local level Ralphs Coffee truck is serving complimentary coffee donated by La Colombe Coffee and baked goods to hospital workers across the New York metro area. Ralphâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coffee truck visited frontline workers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. The truck is also serving additional hospitals in the New York metro area.

BURBERRY The British fashion house has pledged to help fight the global pandemic in a number of ways, the first of which is to use its Yorkshire factory to supply hospital gowns and masks for the NHS. Alongside this, Burberry has made a number of financial donations, including to the University of Oxford's vaccine research and to two charities that tackle food poverty. "In challenging times, we must pull together," chief executive officer, Marco Gobbetti said. "The whole team at Burberry is very proud to be able to support those who are working tirelessly to combat Covid-19, whether by treating patients, working to find a vaccine solution or helping provide food supplies to those in need at this time."

Top: www.instagram.com/ralphlauren Bottom: www.instagram.com/burberry

brand values Louis Vuitton Louis Vuitton has reopened some of its leather-goods production sites in France with the aim of producing hundreds of thousands of masks, which will be donated to frontline healthcare workers. "Thank you to all our artisans who have volunteered to create these masks, as well as everyone doing their part to fight this global pandemic," the fashion house said via Instagram.

CHANEL In the UK, Chanel has committed to donating ÂŁ1 million to support the crisis. This money will be donated to The National Emergencies Trust, to local charities nominated by Chanel employees, and to fund the supply of personal protection equipment (PPE) for frontline community workers. Above: instagram.com/louisvuitton

Jaguar Land Rover The British car maker has offered 160 vehicles to Red Cross organisations in the UK, Spain, France and South Africa to help stop the spread of the virus. It is also loaning vehicles to the NHS as well as providing hospitals with wraparound safety glasses.

Bottom Left: instagram.com/dior - Bottom Right: instagram.com/dyson

LVMH The company behind Dior, Givenchy and Louis Vuitton, has transformed all production facilities that were responsible for making make-up, beauty products and fragrance into producing much-needed hand sanitiser, which has been donated free of charge to French hospitals.

Dyson The UK design firm, helmed by James Dyson offered to make 10,000 ventilators for the NHS. Its new ventilator, the CoVent, was designed in 10 days and is said to address the specific needs of coronavirus patients. The company said they will also donate 5,000 ventilators to international coronavirus efforts.

Welcome to Melbourne Court Welcome to Displays Melbourne Court Displays

MCD is a London based design, visual MCD is a London based design, visual merchandising and merchandising and manufacturing company, with over mannequin 20 years of retail experience. Combining the latest fashion and technology, manufacturing company, withandsustainability we manufacture high-quality mannequins VM props for high-end and high street brands. at the heart of what we do. Collaborating work very artisans closely with we eachcreate of our clients, withWe talented bespoke understanding their visual needs and assist from the initial design concept through to delivery and installation. products and unique concepts for high-end We also work with many UK based and talented artisans to create bespoke street and unique stores. concepts andWhen products. itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time brands to high for change MCD also, collect, up-cycle and recycle your products for you...

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POP & POS

POS & POP an engaging prospect As retailers begin putting together plans to reopen after lockdown measures are eased, Rob Fletcher looks at how some of the latest POS and POP technologies can help them capture the attention and custom of the public. The retail sector, and indeed the rest of the world, finds itself in new waters, with clouds of uncertainty cast over the immediate future of the market. While we await absolute clarity as to how and when all locations will be permitted to reopen, recent announcements by the government have spurred many on to planning how best to go about business after measures are relaxed. One of the main focuses will be getting customers into shops and engaging with them in a safe manner, and a major part of this will be rolling out effective point-of-sale (POS) and point-ofpurchase (POP) technologies. With the general public starved of in-person retail activity in recent months, how can shops use POS and POP to go about getting them back in store and driving sales in what will be a tough market? Seize the opportunity Alvaro Cabrera, chief executive of in-store visual solutions specialist

Kendu, said the new store experience is still unknown territory, due to the impact of novel coronavirus (Covid-19) on the world. “We don’t yet know what the store experience will look like in terms of new regulations as a result of Covid-19,” he said.” But what we do know is that the experience needs to focus on the best parts of the customer journey and maximise them to ensure a positive, relevant and, most of all, safe experience for the customer. Howver, Cabrera did say that it is key for retailers to look beyond typical signs to include wayfaring graphics, in-store signage and even interactive displays. “Now is an opportune time to be experiential and try new POS/ POP innovations in-store that will really add value to the customer experience,” Cabrera said. “For example, experiential retail is getting bigger and better as it’s changing up what exactly is a store. The new store may include a pop-up, a showroom or even a new prototype all of which are ideal for trialling new POS/POP ideas. “Additionally, technology is becoming incorporated more organically into POS/ POP which benefits customers as the focus is on interaction. Digital transformation in-store, especially in relation to POS/POP, can engage customers further by getting them involved in the brand’s in-store experience.” In terms of how Kendu can assist, Cabrera picked out a number of options, such as its new-look Flowbox, which has been redesigned with a brand-new framing system featuring smooth

POP & POS

‘Now is an opportune time to be experiential and try new POS/ POP innovations in-store that will really add value to the customer experience’

Alvaro Cabrera edged LED plates with internal wiring that eliminates the need for manual cabling. The new framing system can be easily assembled thanks to its clip-style locking system, while as the wiring is encased within the frame, the smooth-edged LED plates click into the lighting grid supports, eliminating the need for manual cabling. Animation comes on a ready-to-play SD card, which slots into a discrete reader embedded in frame, breathing life and movement into the graphic. In addition, Cabrera said it provides retailers with energy efficiency savings, as it uses up to 80% less energy consumption than a LED screen. Consider future habits and trends Also offering guidance is display and graphics installation company 100 Percent Group, whose managing director, Dan Williams, said that consumers are savvy and expect brands to adapt to current trends. Williams said: “Using the latest technology to create interactive POP displays can offer ease of use to the customer, control the customer journey, target impulse buyers and improve the overall shopping experience. “Implementing new POP displays can be an effective way to cut down on costs. With the price of advertising continuing to rise, both on and offline, POP displays offer an efficient channel of communication between the customer and brand. “Brands can incorporate the same adverts and messaging through the use of POP displays, capturing the attention of a highly relevant market with an immediate call to action.” Williams also advised taking into account the likely current

trends that will come about as a result of the coronavirus outbreak, and the impact this will have on POS and POP installations. He said that issues around hygiene will play a significant part in brands future-proofing their POP displays, adding that it is expected we will see a transition away from touchscreen to gesture recognition and computer vision control technology to mitigate the spread of infection. Williams expanded: “This is something brands should be looking to incorporate into their POP displays, ready for when our high street reopens. “One aspect of our service that we have invested in significantly during recent years is our maintenance offering. Many POP displays rely on the latest interactive technology and going forward in a post-Covid-19 world, we will see even more of this.” Environmentally friendly engagement While much of the focus is on the market’s response to coronavirus at present, Amy Gleave, marketing executive at POS and POP specialist Momentum Instore, said that a key ongoing trend that will continue when the sector returns to near-normal is the environment. Gleave said: “In an ever-changing marketplace, consumers are constantly being influenced by the media, celebrities and the world around them which in turn, affects what they expect from their favourite brands and retailers. “POS and POP need to adapt to customers’ changing desires in order to stay relevant. For example, in these times of hyper-awareness regarding the future of the planet, it is simply

‘POS/POP that resonates with the customer’s values is much more likely to create an emotional connection and have the desired affect when it comes to buying’ Amy Gleave 18

Flash to go here

no longer acceptable in the eye of the customer to turn a blind eye to the affect that frequently changing POS has on the environment.” Gleave explained that Momentum Instore works with brands and retailers to extend the life cycle of their POP and POS fixtures through its aftermarket and recycling solution. She added that brands that claim to have sustainability at the heart of everything they do can demonstrate their commitment to the cause by ensuring this idea is not only considered at conception, but throughout the life cycle of each component. Gleave added: “POS/POP that resonates with the customer’s values is much more likely to create an emotional connection and have the desired affect when it comes to buying. New POS/POP is a powerful tool that can also be used to communicate a brand’s values as well as just trying to sell.” Government suggest that mainstream retail shops will begin to open from June, but questions remains as to how stores will go about ensuring people can shop in a safe manner. That said, adapting your POS and POP to offer a safer environment to customers is one sure-fire way of making sure you are ready to welcome shoppers once again.

‘Using the latest technology to create interactive POP displays can offer ease of use to the customer, control the customer journey, target impulse buyers and improve the overall shopping experience’

Dan Williams

Top left: Kendu has urged retailers to look past traditional signs to integrate other aspects of POS and POP in their stores, including interactive displays Above: Dan Williams, managing director of 100 Percent Group, said implementing new POP displays can be an effective way of lowering costs Left: Amy Gleave, marketing executive at Momentum Instore, said environmental considerations will be an ongoing key trend for retailers when it comes to POS and POP

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project focus

PROJECT

Relic ®

Melbourne, Australia

The 120sqm streetwear concept designed by Noise Noise Noise studio pays homage to the history of Melbourne’s Flinders Lane textile wholesale industry, acting as a juxtaposition of references from eras of the past stitched together and remade with a modern thread. The brand environment is reflective of Noise Noise Noise studio’s anarchic approach to traditional retail design. Raw steel sits against textural vermiculite backdrops, whilst striking gradients of green become stylistic accents. Reflective surfaces visually morph together as upcycled ‘waste’ is considered as the hero throughout the space, a nod to a sustainable reinterpretation of history. The flicker of vertical fuorescent light attracts attention as it casts an acid green glow across the pavement. Greeted with a juxtaposition of an urban wasteland vs. a calming Japanese rock garden, steel formwork tubes protrude through the rocky terrain and Corinthian columns (repurposed from a house demolition in the Northern suburbs of Melbourne) are given a second life with the melting of architectural eras. Romanesque heads of David are scatted through the rockscape and their neoclassical patronage is questioned. >>>

project

Central to the ground foor sits a zig-zag of spirulina grid mesh forms that act as a central table and recycled crushed stainless steel bails are shrouded in acrylic boxes heightening their worth. Walls and ceilings are sprayed in grey vermiculite, its unorthodox application is responsible for adding a bold textural overlay. The atmosphere of the basement level changes from gritty urbanism to one of a future scape. Genderless mannequins are given discarded foil masks, aimed to morph their androgynous faces. Large scale projected animation fills a wall and offers an incentive to delve into another possible reality. Otherworldly, morphing, digital art kaleidoscopes dripping metallic forms into a cityscape and acid inspired glitch projected over clear PVC curtaining – its edge sprayed with neon green paint – capturing light and electrifying the concrete walls of the basement. A neon green angular wall extends from its boundary, intense colour camouflages

the foor, walls and texturing. Central to this space, mounds of broken concrete blocks imperfectly stacked act as the base for a sheet glass display plinth. On top sits an eclectic, ice cream toned sculpture by Noise Noise Noise that repurposes offcuts of upholstery foam, carpet underlay, bubble wrap, and plastic from the store build. Lounge seating and a pill shaped coffee table are remade from recycled foams wrapped in clear PVC with exposed overlocked edges. Their soft, bulbous forms contrast with that of the 360 space, and offers a hint to the textile wholesale past of the space. Tunnel-like mirrored fitting rooms reflect back on each other to the point of concealment. A glitchy phosphorescent landscape is digitally printed over the floor and curtaining to form the threshold between the retail space and a potential ‘future world’. It questions the ephemeral, otherworldly places we could extend to though a digital lense – a relationship between the brand’s slogan ’What Was / What Is.’ RF

Flash to go here

Dadu’s

Hyderabad, india

Dadu’s utilises old-world charm and grandeur to showcase the new emerging face of Indian contemporary luxury. The Hyderabad outlet, designed by Dhruva Kalra of RMDK Architects is divided into two major zones. One houses the restaurant, while the other houses their sweet and ice cream junction. A wide array of materials, colours and textures have been nimbly translated into a humble yet luxurious ambience creating a harmonious zoning, circulation and visual flow within the outlet. A lush jeweltoned colour palette of purple, blue, green and gold is well balanced with neutral white and brown shades in the restaurant, creating a memorable and theatrical dining experience. On the other hand, a more neutral and formal colour palette of white and gold with a use of various playful textures complement the products on display, adding a certain warmth and depth to the retail space. The interiors of the restaurant are influenced by the context of the city’s numerous monuments. Each purple-toned dome incorporates a household lantern inspired pendant light, creating a uniquely

indulgent ambience. A curated pattern of window openings and solid surfaces in the vivid blue service counter creates a stark contrast to the interiors thus creating a fluid visual highlight, effortlessly creating an inside-outside flow and converting an otherwise mundane cooking activity into a live art exhibit. The wall relief patterns are a clean, geometric and minimal take on the vernacular art and decor, readjusted to the brand’s context, creating stunning visual narratives of their culinary experience. This is complemented with chic, simplistic chairs in green and gold inspired by the rawness of Rattan weaves and plush brown tufted sofas adding a sense of comfortable luxury to the space. The subtle flooring and the natural wooden texture further complement the vibrant colour palette, while the huge, linear glazing ensures adequate natural lighting within. The main entrance opens into an elegant and dynamic space, flanked by the sweet and ice-cream displays on either side giving a quick overview of the entire product range, creating an alluring yet functional space. A grand central island

display for the brand’s miscellaneous range and arty patterned tiles visually guide the customer to a smaller feature display and cash counter behind, which in itself forms the entrance to the restaurant. The custom-made minimal display counters by Climaire emphasize simple yet timeless Indian splendour. The fine grooves on the surface of the stone cladded ice-cream display give a fine play of light and shadow, thus adding depth and charm to its patterns and texture. The playful natural striations and patterns on the marble cladded sweet display counter with geometric metallic pattern overlays are an innovation on the indigenous stone construction techniques and are reminiscent of the city’s architectural heritage. The expansive and luxurious island display and the waffle slab inspired minimal ceiling, with minimal, spherical pendant lights create a warm, soft, golden glow that transitions into a matte gold ceiling towards the cash counter with quirky feature lights inspired by traditional lamps, before transitioning into the dramatic restaurant’s domed purple ceiling. Aimed at reimagining Indian heritage into a cozy yet international retail experience, Dadu’s boldly goes beyond the expected to blur the boundaries between the old and the modern, creating a timeless piece of global retail experience. It is a true example of beauty lying in the details and deftly highlights the importance of contextual relevance of every project and its effect on both the urban fabric and the brand identity.

project focus

Bread Ahead LONDON, UK

The design of this impressive and inspirational 11,000sq ft Bread Ahead flagship at Quintainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wembley Park site strives to achieve its sole mission of creating a community bakery by flipping the traditional rules of separating back and front of house in favour of blurred boundaries between baker and customer. Bread Ahead is designed to celebrate the baking process from beginning to end and encourages repeat custom by adopting a truly multi-use strategy. The flagship is home to a fully operational 24hr wholesale bakery (supplying fresh produce daily to a range of local restaurants and delis and local residents that live and work in Wembley Park), a 200 cover cafe, restaurant, bar and bakery school. Visiting Bread Ahead is an immersive and unique customer experience where customers are connected to the theatre of the wholesale bakery and their senses filled with the sights, sounds and smells of the artisan skill.

PROJECT

The architecture, interior design and adjacency planning of the space are all actively designed to create transparency and frame the baking action taking place in the wholesale bakery. A mix of low level walls, glass screens and high level seating place customers right next to a commercial bakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s workstation bringing the craft and action of baking directly into the customer dining experience. Customers are welcomed to interact with the passionate and friendly bakers, making the experience feel special and authentic. A carefully considered mix of zones within the flagship allows for pace, drama and intimacy throughout the customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience; an indulgent takeaway counter service features a hero pizza oven, a mix of high and low level bench tables provide a communal feeling for the all-day dining offer and cosy banquettes are available for intimate evening visits. Seamlessly integrating the multiple offers across two levels was key to the success of the project. The bakery school, located on the first floor, plays the level difference to its strength by putting customers at the centre of the story with

glass fronted classrooms overlooking both the restaurant and bakery, this also helps to keep the connection to other parts of the experience. The flagship store has a raw, clean urban quality to it, inspired by the simplicity of the basic materials used for baking. The raw textures, neutral tones and textured finishes applied throughout the interior bolster the artisan feel of the space which is actively not distracted by the use of large graphic communications. Where possible baking equipment becomes part of the interior, leveraging the theatre and aromas of the process. The space is designed to be confident and bold but minimal allowing the craftsmanship and authenticity of the experience to shine. Bread Ahead aims to dovetail into the seismic shift underway in city living due to changing lifestyles of Millennials and their altered view of third places and social spaces. The Wembley Park development by Quintain is designed to create a strong local community by providing local residents with spaces to meet, work and socialise.

PROJECT

see more at www.retail-focus.co.uk

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With highly specialised developers and solution providers. Display Systems Ltd Display Systems Ltd Tel Tel01952 01952290055 290055• •Fax: Fax:01952 01952290056 290056• •sales@dragondisplay.co.uk sales@dragondisplay.co.uk EuroCIS: The No.1 destination in Europe for everyone who sees their future in retail.

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16.11.17 10:35

OPINION

Ten ways brands can find meaning from tougher times James Thomlinson, Managing Director, One Green Bean

When Boris referred to our current situation as ‘the biggest peacetime challenge’, it instantly made me wonder what brands did to ‘do their bit’ during World War II and other less peaceful economic times. While tastes and tactics have changed since the 1940s and even the 2008 financial crisis, the overriding sentiment remains the same – brands must keep the wheels of industry turning. This may be easier said than done when shops are shutting, pubs have closed on consumers; concerts have been cancelled, but these uncertain times should not preclude brands from planning ahead – thinking less about short-term sales and more about building their brand for long-term benefit. Like the war, this virus will pass. Consumers will return to the high street. This is why it’s important to invest now in building a meaningful brand and love for it, which we are helping some of our clients do. The Body Shop is donating over 255,000 essential items to NHS staff; Domino’s has provided more than 100,000 pizzas to frontline workers; and Costa Coffee has given away over 250,000 free drinks. In the UK, Marks & Spencer spent most of World War II manufacturing ration clothing for the British public. This act of kindness was widely admired, remembered and referenced as a key driver of M&S’ success throughout the 1960s and 70s. In the US, the government established the War Advertising Council (WAC) during World War II for brands to market the idea of nationwide sacrifice to the public. Participation in WAC was voluntary, and companies didn’t receive direct compensation for it, but many enrolled as they saw the opportunity to be seen as the patriotic engine of the American economy. US companies like General Tires ran ads to encourage readers to ‘buy more war bonds’ rather than tyres, which

promoted the sense that sacrifice was important and that they were all in it together. Today, we are seeing brands making similarly significant contributions towards solving the problem. LVMH has altered its production lines to mass manufacture hand sanitisers for hospitals. An act I’m sure – as with M&S and General Tires after World War II – consumers will look back on with warm feeling long after coronavirus. In the UK, we’ve also seen the likes of BrewDog following this lead with the production of Brewgel Punk Sanitiser – a move that has not gone unnoticed by the media, on social and the in hearts of the public. Throughout the comms industry, we’ve spent the last 2-3 years talking about the importance of brands having a social purpose and making more meaningful connections with consumers – I cannot think of a better time than now for us all to step up and do this in bigger and better ways. This isn’t just a rallying cry from someone with a vested interest, the data – past and present – supports this suggestion.

When it comes to being a ‘Meaningful Brand’, at One Green Bean, an integrated earned media agency that’s part of the Havas Group, we determine these as brands that ‘define their strategy through the value they create’. The findings from Havas’ Meaningful Brand Study 2019, a global study of 1,800 brands, in 31 countries, with 350,000 respondents, shows that brands who are meaningful outperform the stock market by 134% and see their share of wallet multiply by nine. These brands also lockin greater returns on KPIs, like 24 points more for purchase intent and 39 points for advocacy. Similar benefits were also enjoyed by strong, meaningful brands following the 2008 financial crisis. BrandZ Global, the largest global brand equity platform, backed by Kantar Millward Brown, found that strong, meaningful brands recovered nine times faster following that economic meltdown. But during the unusual and uncertain economic downturn we face now, is it really the time for brands to be building more meaning and love, particularly when there’s a quagmire of others looking to do the same? Isn’t it better to

OPINION

10 panic and pause activity and budgets until there’s more certainty, or even until it’s all blown over? Absolutely not the latter two options, no. To name two of the post-recessionrecovery-reports doing the rounds, findings from Millward Brown and Data2Decisions conclude that if brands reduce their spend during recessions, they often come out the other end weaker. A more recent study by WARC: ‘How to win during and after a recession’, shows companies that cut investment by 50% in a year of crisis, can take up to two years to recover the share of market they lost. On the other side of the coin, WARC finds that brands that increase exposure in times of crisis can win up to three times more share of market in the first two years of recovery. This data would suggest not to slash budgets, but to shift them. So where should retailers look? GlobalWebIndex (GWI), a leading consumer-data platform, offer two (among many) key insights into the impact of the current pandemic on the global consumer landscape. Firstly, that the outbreak is bringing back the ‘social’ aspects of social media. 39% of UK consumers are reading more news stories on social – this is the primary motivator to use social across markets, gender, and income. 80% of UK consumers also say they’re consuming more content – broadcast TV, online videos, and TV streaming take the top spots for increased media consumption. Secondly, that coronavirus dominates consumer demand for news coverage, but many are seeking escapism. Around a third of UK consumers want to see more topics unrelated to the coronavirus, showing the importance of bringing in a sense of escapism or normality as the

outbreak consumes every aspect of our daily lives. There are many other relevant and insightful findings out there, including ‘peaks of social and mobile are now all day long’ (Platform Analytics, March 2020) and that audiences are ‘seeking experiences beyond our four walls’ (Adobe Omniture). So, once brands have found their meaning and shifted budgets in the short-to-medium-term, what next? If the learnings from those countries further ahead of us, like China, are anything to go by, then there are better times ahead to plan for. Kantar, a leading data, insights and consulting company, found that once the virus had passed in China, there was huge potential for almost all categories and sectors to rebound. 82% of Kantar’s survey respondents in China, claim they will resume OOH dining and gatherings; 78% will resume travel; and 77% will resume OOH entertainment. The Chinese consumer pretty much plans to increase its spending across the board from food and beverage through to fashion and accessories. The findings would suggest that being prepared to ride the wave of what we might ironically refer to as the ‘back to school period’ (being in late summer and all), would be a prudent thing to do. While it’s tempting to panic in these uncertain times, it’s important to use the extra thinking we have while working from home to take inspiration from those who lived during far tougher times, to ‘do our bit’ in the war against coronavirus. Let’s not panic but pause; find meaning; shift not slash budgets; and prepare for better, more prosperous times ahead. While now is the time for people to socially distance themselves, it is not the time for brands to self-isolate.

My starter for ten – how brands can find meaning from tougher times: Social listening while distancing: analyse social conversation and trends to make sure your communications and actions are not tone deaf Live, longer and prosper: increase frequency of online content and experiment with both longer and live forms Bring the outdoors in: consider shifting from OOH media, experiential and sponsorship activities to digital media, social and PR Look up from your laptop: seek external counsel on strategic plans and creative campaigns before going live Voice of reason over share of voice: Err on the side of the public and the frontline, not short-term profits Friends close, competitors closer: check their activity regularly and be open to collaborations When you can’t make, curate: there is so much content out there, package up what you think your audience will find most interesting and relevant Fail to prepare is preparing to fail: think ahead to stores opening; travel bans lifting; going back to work etc. Turn your creative up to 11: as lockdown continues, creativity will be rewarded and required to standout. Be brand-aligned but audacious Keep calm, carry on: history shows that brands that keep going – in strong, meaningful ways – emerge from economic shocks ahead of their competitors.

FEATURE

Emergence retail strategies:

Moe Krimat, Strategic Creative Director, Seen Displays

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“The restart of the world economy risks going ahead without a key ingredient: the consumer.” Rich Miller and Michelle Jamrisko – Bloomberg As several theories circulate on how our economies will fare post-lockdown, it appears the most pressing question is whether consumer demand will live up to brands’ eagerness to supply in an effort to recuperate losses. While manufacturing may see a ‘V’ or ‘W’ shaped bounce (where recovery might be as quick as the slump), there are expectations that tourist and service dependant economies may be facing an ‘L’ shaped growth (where the rebound may take the majority of the year to slowly recover). Analysts will be keeping an eye on various intel and insight over the next few weeks to further refine forecasts, but brands will need to start designing, planning and producing their emergence retail

strategies now for when lock-down comes to an end. Moe Krimat, Strategic Creative Director of Seen Displays explored how consumer behavioural insight can help retail brands be best prepared in their response to the shifting consumer landscape; The Resurgent Consumer While we can expect a slower return to usual demand for certain products on the high street, there’s an emergence of ‘recession-proof’ categories like kids wear that will continue to be

FEATURE

sought after. As we start seeing consumers abandon non-essential goods over the next 6 months, brands will need to develop more emotional purpose to overcome some of the challenges retail will be facing over the next year. Here are a few take-aways to consider:

1. Strategies need to consider working from home will remain a regular habit for a majority of the workforce after lock down and therefore prioritise products that provide ‘keyboard-up’ styling like upper-wear, accessories, beauty and home wear. 2. Cost control and efficiency will be paramount post Covid, but certain brands also can’t afford to compromise on the quality of their executions and will need to explore campaigns and retail activations that deliver a high quality and engaging aesthetic while remaining cost effective or agile to pivot at short notice. 3. With the expected nose dive in travel retail sales, It’s never been more important to meet China’s growing middle class of brandconscious shoppers in their local cities. Partnering with design agencies with access to production partners in the Far East will alleviate pressure to seamlessly bring local design work to life. 4. As we come out of lockdown there’s an expectation of pent-up demand for high-end luxury goods and an opportunity for more frivolous and exuberant shopping sprees, hyper-personalised services and experiences will be key to build long lasting relationships with your VICs.

Right: Seen Displays, Converse Renew Canvas (Photo by Tom D Morgan) Right: Seen Displays, Consumer Experience (Photo by Tom D Morgan). TOP Right: Play At Home Nike

The Cautious Consumer While it’s impossible to ignore that consumers coming out of lockdown will retain a fear over infection, it’s important to also remember consumer demand could once again decline due to anxiety over job loss and shrinking savings as people cut back on discretionary spending. Brands should focus their messaging and strategy in a compassionate and human-centric direction to reassure their brand behaviours are well aligned with their consumers in the following ways:

1. While retaining an air of optimism, it will be important to support their audience’s mental wellbeing and physical health by implementing social distancing and hygiene policies in a more creative and sympathetic manner which fits seamlessly in their retail environments. 2. Although attitudes to sustainability might have taken a back seat to consumers’ priority for health care and provisions, there is still a strong awareness of the decrease in pollution due to reduction in travel and manufacturing. Brands and retailers should continue to innovate sustainable solutions in their retail environments and provide more green spaces indoors while taking part in initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint. 3.From a financial wellbeing perspective consider retail strategies that support and educate customers on budgeting and saving while offering products that are durable, ethically sound at a fair price point and represent a more sustainable approach to shopping. 4. While brands work on these strategies to respond to the constantly shifting consumer demand over the next few weeks it

will be imperative to prepare engagement strategies for another potential decline in demand for offline retail experiences in the eventuality of a second lock down. The Restricted Consumer Brands who are rooted in the service industry or within retail units that are heavily reliant on the tourist consumer may face a much slower recovery in demand due to hygiene concerns and travel restrictions. It will be imperative to build on current quarantine born strategies to continue supporting and servicing your customers in empathic, creative and innovative ways:

1. Create messaging that focuses on values that connect around family, community and the environment, and less on materialistic indicators which are inaccessible. 2. Campaigns can look to virtual merchandising to make product and storytelling available at their digital fingertips using existing augmented reality features. 3. Explore ways to re-connect your brand following digitally and repackage your services for customers to use at the safety and sanctuary of their homes or to use at future dates. While time will only tell how consumers will react to offline retail opportunities, what is clear is our need to be prepared for all scenarios. www.seendisplays.com

FEATURE

Insight Into Consumerism Post COVID-19 The YARD CREATIVE

Over the past few weeks, we have seen people make massive unforeseen changes to their lives almost at the drop of a hat. If you had suggested only a couple of months ago what society would look like right now, nobody would have believed you. It has truly shown the capacity that mankind has for adapting. In a crisis, the best and the worst in people comes out. Fear and uncertainty can make people act in negative ways, but it is also an opportunity for people to step up as beacons of hope. When the lockdown first hit, we at TYC knew that we wanted to be one of those beacons. Some businesses have used their facilities to make hand sanitizer, hospital gowns, providing free or discounted food to key workers, all according to their expertise. Our expertise is insight, strategy and brand experience so during COVID-19 we wanted to support our clients, and the wider industry, by sharing our mix of customer knowledge and creativity to help brands understand the impact on consumer behaviour.

We started by publishing a number of surveys, the responses to which have been analysed and the findings split into short, digestible snapshot insights that have been shared with businesses across retail, food & beverage, travel, property development, hospitality and leisure sectors. For instance, the findings indicate that a key concern is connection, and ensuring people stay close to their loved ones, even though it has to be done virtually. Video chats with friends and family is one of the top new or increased activities that people have undertaken during the lockdown, with 79% of people doing this for the first time, or doing it more frequently, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the things that is bringing the most comfort

FEATURE

to people in these times. We would challenge brands to think how human connection feeds into their brand – even if video chats have nothing to do with the offer. It is worth remembering that when we lost everything, the first thing we wanted to do was connect. As a brand are you offering customers a chance to truly connect with you or others? Do customers see you as something quite unreachable or have you managed to show them your humanity? The findings also indicate a rise in home exercise and fitness. People who were previously quite sedentary are now more interested in exercise as a lot of people feel it’s the only thing they’re allowed to do. Perhaps to their surprise, they have found that exercise makes them feel great, and 73% of them intend to keep up their current fitness level once lockdown finishes. Another unexpected finding was that Gen X and Baby Boomers are exercising more than Millennials and Gen Z. Gen X and Baby Boomers who currently have the luxury of time are aware that once they return to ‘normal’ they will need to find a new balance to enable the current levels. 67% of more frequent exercisers say that changing their own priorities will be the one thing that helps them the most in maintaining their new regime. Brands that can help these consumers address priorities and help them do more of what they love, will have a real advantage. We also found that people’s homes are becoming more important to them, naturally, as they are forced to spend more time there. We don’t think anyone can have missed the rise in banana bread baking (!!) but there’s also been a huge rise in bigger projects, both DIY (up by 24%) and gardening (up by 35%). We think that going forward, brands who are able to provide easy, cost-effective home improvement solutions for people who own and rent, will continue to do well. Read the surveys at www.theyardcreative.com

FEATURE

Joe’ Lloyd , Senior Director of Communications, AVIXA™

Media Architecture Help Retailers Reimagine Spaces When people enter 900 North Michigan Shops on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, they may catch a glimpse of birds flying above the seven levels of high-end retail and dining. Except those aren’t real birds and that isn’t really the sky overhead. Created by New York-based ESI Design, the ceiling is, in fact, a 190-foot-long digital canopy of high-resolution LED displays, designed to draw visitors through the mall with eye-catching, high-resolution content, including lifelike, computer-generated flocks. Such digital experiences increasingly permeate public life. What has come to be called “media architecture” — integrated audiovisual (AV) technology and lighting systems in the built environment — is a growing specialty influencing the design of retail spaces. The right combination of content, space, technology helps companies engage, inform, and entertain consumers in ways they couldn’t before. Media architecture — you can think of it as digital signage taken to a next level of scale and immersion — combines the dynamism of digital installations with the placemaking of physical and architectural design. It can help transform a store and, in the process, influence shoppers’ attitudes or tell a brand’s unique story. Media architecture can also include motion-activated or interactive technology that responds to customers as they pass. And with advances in display technology, it can assume unique shapes, wrap around building elements, or create digital halos overhead. No matter how it’s used, media architecture and the technology it entails should be integrated into the overall retail design in order to get the best results. According to 2018 research into retail technology adoption by AVIXA, the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association, 47 percent of retailers surveyed said they planned to increase the amount of digital signage in their stores. When shoppers were asked what they thought of the many displays, videowalls, and other digital experiences in retail, more than half said it helped them learn about products and 41 percent said it added to their enjoyment of shopping in stores. At the Oakley flagship store in New York, multimedia design firm Moment Factory employed media architecture to draw in people from the street outside. The unconventional installation comprises 27 LCD screens, running the length of the ceiling and hung at angles in nine rows of three. From outside, the displays appear as one large image. Inside, customers perceive nine retail zones that draw them toward the back of the store. From every viewpoint, customers are immersed in the Oakley brand, while precious wall and floor space remains available for sales and merchandising. Experiential design firm Float4 was behind the media architecture at Bloomingdale’s Carousel pop-up store on the first floor of its New York City flagship. On facing sides of Bloomingdale’s Carousel are giant videowalls built with LG screens and measuring 10 feet high and 35 feet wide. The content

on the video walls reflects the theme Bloomingdale’s plans for the space, and it combines pre-shot, live footage with graphics that move and change based on computer algorithms. The result is an immersive, dynamic experience the feels fresh each time a shopper enters. At 900 North Michigan Shops, the media architecture in the building’s ceiling generates ambience and allows the property’s operator, JMB Realty, to ensure the visuals change and morph to promote retailers, products, and the city outside. “Even though it’s 190 feet long and 10 high-resolution screens, we treat it as one cohesive canvas all the way across,” says Andrew Lazarow, Designer and AV Technologist for ESI Design. Sometimes, the LED ceiling appears as the sky outside. “We developed with Float4 this idea of a digital skylight, where the birds — every time you come in — never fly the same pattern again,” Lazarow says. At other times, the digital skylight might feature products on sale throughout the mall, rendered and presented in dynamic, graphical ways. ESI Design provided a custom content management system so mall operators could upload existing images and have them included in computer-generated scenes. Ultimately, the goal is greater engagement. Media architecture and audiovisual technologies effectively change the way people experience the world around them, whether in malls, stores, or other public areas, allowing brands to forge new bonds with customers. As retailers look to reimagine the in-store experience, media architecture helps bring their stories to life.

‘Ultimately, the goal is greater engagement’ Joe Lloyd

WHOLESALE FAUX FLOWERS – RIBBON – SEASONAL EVENT DECORATIONS POTS & GLASSWARE – ACCESSORIES

TEL: +44 (0) 20 8640 0354 WEB: WWW.FLOURISHTRADING.COM EMAIL: SALES@FLOURISHTRADING.COM

products

surfaces Polyflor Delivering a luxurious and bespoke design, Ark Interiors, were able to create a high-end bar and restaurant setting for staff and customers to enjoy at The Propeller Bar & Grill, Humberside Airport. Their objective, to provide a nostalgic 1960s aircraft impression in keeping with the history and location, was enhanced with the installation of Polyflor’s Affinity255 in the shades Dappled Oak, Flamed Chestnut and Seasoned Grey Oak. Affinity was the ideal choice for the project that combines nostalgic features with a contemporary finish. This beautifully engineered collection of high design luxury vinyl tiles is developed for heavy traffic environments and is an eclectic mix of authentically reproduced wood plank designs, incorporating contemporary and recycled timber patterns. The innovative 2mm gauge allows Affinity to be installed alongside 2mm vinyl sheet flooring, providing a seamless flooring solution that flows throughout any commercial installation. Fitted throughout the entrance, main restaurant and bar areas Affinity makes the perfect addition, ideal for heavy commercial interiors, the rustic and contemporary timber designs are ideal for the retail sector, developed and presented in a practical, resilient and hygienic product construction. T. +44 (0)161 767 1111 E. info@polyflor.com www.polyflor.com Twitter: Polyflorltd

Armourcoat Decorative specialists Armourcoat have provided the finishing touches to The Soak, a new bar and restaurant next to London’s Victoria Station with an all-day menu that is built around signature soaked flavours through fermenting, pickling, brining and steeping techniques. Armourcoat’s Koncrete polished plaster finish is used to great effect on the bar front with recessed logo. Koncrete is an urban range of polished plaster colours and finishes designed for contemporary projects. The range offers a wealth of design options to achieve a distinctive modern look including distressed effects or recessed ‘shutter’ markings. Outside the building, Armourcoat PPX has been used to repeat the restaurant logo design. PPX is a low maintenance, durable external limestone render system that can create stunning honed and textured stone like finishes for both new build and renovation projects. T. +44 (0) 1732 460668 E. sales@armourcoat.co.uk. www.armourcoat.com Twitter: @armourcoat

www.hacel.co.uk

products

flooring Tarkett Bridal retailer WED2B has selected luxury vinyl floor tiles from Tarkett. To further enhance the customer experience in the new WED2B store in Ashford, Kent, a combination of iD inspiration 70 Luxury Vinyl Tiles featuring brushed pine grey and brown tones was selected. The tiles are made to stay looking great — even in the face of high foot traffic. Treated with Tarkett’s Top Clean surface protection system, all the planks and tiles in this collection have the additional benefits of easy maintenance and a high resistance to scuffs, scratches and stains. The combination of a beautiful realistic wood effect pattern, with the high performance benefits, made Tarkett’s iD Inspiration 70 ideal for WED2B. T. +44 (0)1622 854 000 E: uksales@tarkett.com www.tarkett.co.uk Twitter: TarkettUK

Havwoods Havwoods has introduced six new plank designs to its popular Henley collection. A fashion-forward product with plenty of character, Henley is the ideal floorcovering for those who desire the texture of a reclaimed board, with the strength and durability of an engineered construction. Featuring a superiorquality European oak lamella, this high-performance plank offers a durable and long-lasting surface that also delivers on visual appeal. Henley presents a choice of over 30 distinctive designs and surface finishes to ensure a suitable fit for any design brief, from various oil applications, to smoked and hand-distressed effects. T. +44 (0)1524 737 000 E: info@havwoods.co.uk www.havwoods.co.uk Twitter: havwoods

Forbo Flooring Systems

Tarkett

Forbo Flooring Systems has launched its award winning Allura Fusion; a luxury vinyl tile (LVT) collection that uses innovative colouring techniques to create a fresh unique look, with no pattern repeats. The trend collection, which was recently decorated with the prestigious international Red Dot Design Award, features four plank and three tile designs, with every piece of the Allura Fusion range completely unique. No two planks or tiles are the same, resulting in an organic and truly individual aesthetic. This is made possible by the innovative manufacturing technique, which combines traditional printing methods with free-flowing, coloured PVC streams to produce the 0.7mm wear layer. The result is a flowing, expressive appearance, which is further heightened by the realistic wood embossing on the plank options.

Cementi Click is a new category of premium mineral tiles and planks from Tarkett, for architectural spaces. Manufactured from 95 per cent clay, cement’s main composite, Cementi Click boasts the look and feel of this raw modern material, thus embodying the timeless elegance of concrete art in architecture. The collection features a range of stone and graphical designs. Subtle marble, ethereal decors, and natural clay tone effects create a pure and refined architectural atmosphere for designers and architects looking to create inspirational spaces from mineral textures.

T. +44 (0)1773 744 121 E. info.flooring.uk@forbo.com www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/allurafusion Twitter: forboflooring

T. +44 (0)1622 854 000 E: uksales@tarkett.com www.tarkett.co.uk Twitter: TarkettUK

products

LIGHTING Megaman Megaman has launched its patented Dual Beam Technology (DBT). Incorporated in a selected range of products, the innovative technology offers a flexible choice of beam angles that can be changed easily on site. This latest intelligent innovation from Megaman will also enable wholesalers to rationalise stock. DBT is currently available with Megaman’s PAR16 Dimmable 5.5W LEDs, in colour temperatures of 2,800K or 4,000K, and also with the 24W MARCO MIDI integrated LED white tracklight, available in 3,000K and 4,000K. All LEDs with DBT have a narrow and a wide flood setting, catering for any lighting plan and changeable at a moments notice. The PAR16 LEDs have beam angle options of 24° on the narrow flood setting and 35° on the wider beam angle. T. +44 (0)1707 386 000 E: sales@megamanuk.com www.megamanuk.com Twitter: MegamanUKLtd

Flos Gaku by Nendo is the latest addition to the Flos portfolio. Gaku is a frame (this is the meaning of ‘gaku’ in Japanese) hosting and interacting with lamps and a variety of matching objects, which is conceived as something inbetween accessories and furniture. An adjustable-height pendant lamp hangs down inside a frame, while a wireless version features inductive charging functionality to power a luminescent lamp. Normally laying on the charging dock, the lamp can be moved around freely when lighting is needed elsewhere. T. +39 03024381 E. info@flos.com www.flos.com Twitter: FlosWorldwide

Reggiani UK

iGuzzini

A wide range of luminaires from Reggiani have been installed in the new Jaguar Land Rover showroom and servicing centre in Slough, Berkshire. Both Jaguar and Land Rover occupy their own showroom space within the new facility with both areas utilising Reggiani’s soft recessed Yori L linear fittings to provide the desired uniform ambient lighting. All vehicles are highlighted by two suspended linear Mood fittings with a brighter and cooler colour temperature of 4,000K. Fittings are positioned at an equidistant 1.4m from the centre of every vehicle to ensure an efficient scheme with no shaded areas.

The newest addition to Belfast’s growing City Quays development is the AC Marriott Hotel, designed by Mark Higgins with the interior design by Karen Crookes, both of Robinson Patterson Partnership. The designers worked closely with Chroma Lighting — iGuzzini’s partner in Northern Ireland — to make lighting a key feature of the project; extensive use of the iGuzzini Laser Blade and System 53 ensures that the light is effective yet discreet, while the use of concealed Underscore LED strips helps reveal the architectural details and interior finishes without drawing attention to the luminaires. Externally, the public spaces around the hotel are illuminated using a combination of iGuzzini Wow outdoor luminaires, which have been adopted throughout the project, and small Woody projectors mounted on bespoke columns which illuminate the open areas. As with the interior, concealed Underscore InOut is used to give shape to the landscape details.

T. +44 (0)20 8236 3000 E.reggiani@reggiani.co.uk www.reggiani.net Twitter: reggianilight

T. +44 (0)1483 468 000 E. info.uk@iguzzini.com www.iguzzini.com Twitter: iGuzziniUK

directory

DIREcTORIES

www.retail-focus.co.uk/directory Visit the Retail Focus online directory at www.retail-focus.co.uk to discover a comprehensive list of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading retail suppliers. Each listing contains indepth company information together with inspirational images, video footage and informative press material. You can also link through to company websites and connect with suppliers through Twitter and Facebook. The Retail Supplier Directory is divided into a number of categories, such as design agencies, point-of-purchase, lighting, props and surfaces, to make the site easy to navigate. To feature in the online directory, contact Terry Clark on 0845 6807405 or email terry@retailfocus.co

directory

Aluminium Fittings

Specialist Stockist of Aluminium Extrusions and Mild Steel Fittings for the shopfitting industry. Extensive stock held of: *Slotted uprights *Aluminium slatwall *Perimeter Sections *Corner sections *Design and bespoke service. T: 01273 582241 E: sales@diasystems.co.uk W: www.diagroup.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/DesignsinAlumin

Aluminium Fittings

Bespoke Display

Design Consultancies

Axis design, develop, manufacture and install bespoke retail display solutions. We’ve worked with the biggest names on the high street, but approach every project in the same way, with the maximum thought for your brand, products and sales environment.

Kendu is a European company with over 18 years of experience in pioneering in-store visual solutions for retailers. We design, manage and manufacture in-house to guarantee the best results. Visit our new office and showroom in Hackney Wick, London.

We are a global retail agency. Visual Thinking develops strategy, skills, hearts and minds to deliver retail excellence and transform brand performance.

T, 020 3260 3888 E. info@axiseurope.com W.www.axiseurope.com/retail S. www.twitter.com/AxisEuropePlc

Bespoke Display

T: +44 (0)20 373 55 258 E: info@kendu.com W: www.kendu.com S: www.twitter.com/kenduinstore

Bespoke Display

T, +44 (0) 1788 543 331 E. mail@visualthinking.co.uk W. www.visualthinking.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/shoptactics

Design Consultancies

MicroSlat is a strong versatile 25mm fine pitched aluminium slatwall system. With a bespoke range of components it can be used to build unique and interesting displays or add value to existing designs.

Original suppliers of display fabrics, textiles, PVC and polycarbonates for retail displays and exhibition stands since 1934 Backgrounds have been our background since backgrounds began and B Brown have more than 400 in stock.

Walker Bros (Elland) Ltd is an Engineering Manufacturing company specialising in sheet metalwork and plastic fabrication. We supply precision metal and plastic products, components and light fabrications to a broad range of industries and markets throughout the UK and Europe.

IGNITION is an independent creative company Our multi-disciplined team work together to deliver exceptional retail and commercial environments, global exhibitions and brands.

T. 01325 351 276 E. sales@microslat.com W. www.microslat.com S. www.twitter.com/MicroSlat

T, 08705 340 340 E. customerservices@bbrown.co.uk W. www.bbrown.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/luvbbrown

T: 0 01422 310767 E: sales@wbelland.com W: www.wbelland.com

T, +44 (0) 1179 725168 E. victoria@ignitiondg.com W. www.ignitiondg.com

Audio Visual Integration

Anna Valley looks to help guide clients with their audio visual decision making by offering high end impartial advice and help manoeuvre them through the current “minefield” of different technology and services available to them. This process then enables them to have a clear vision of what they are actually striving to achieve within the budget available to them and then provides a full range of services in the delivery of that vision.

Bespoke Display

Hello Flamingo is a creative company for the retail and event sector, specialising in window displays, in store solution, POP ups, project management, design, manufacture and installation for bespoke projects at our fully equipped manufacturing workshop.

Brochure Holders

Design Consultancies

Brochure Holders International Limited is part of the global Taymar group recognised as a leading manufacturer of premium quality injection moulded leaflet holders and display solutions. Committed to on-going product development the Taymar group offers one of the world’s largest collections of ‘clear view’ wall, floor and counter standing brochure displays.

We are TWO Visual, the retail agency specialising in visual merchandising. Led by brand directors Jeanette Cheetham and Brendan Gordon we provide everything retailers need to make their brands visually dynamic, whilst improving team and commercial performance.

T: +44 (0)1473 229250 E: sales@brochureholders.co.uk W: www.brochureholders.com

T, +44 (0) 1858 414275 E. hello@twovisual.co.uk W. www. twovisual.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/TWO_Visual

T: +44 (0)208 941 1000 E: nick.shaw@annavalley.co.uk W: www.annavalley.co.uk/avintegration

T: 01273 585768 E: info@helloflamingo.co.uk W: www.helloflamingo.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/helloflamingo1

Balloons & Bunting

Bespoke Display

Climate Control

Display

No.1 Advertising Balloon Service: • Printed Latex and Foil Balloons • Helium Gas delivery and collection • Flags, Bunting and Banners • Promotional Sashes and T-shirts • Multi-store distribution nationwide

JPMA is a worldwide leader in designing and manufacturing high-quality store fixtures and visual elements made of wood, metal and acrylic. We make everything all under the one roof and offer designs and finishes not available anywhere else in the industry.

Air Control & Development Ltd are Daikin, Mitsubishi and Toshiba accredited contractors, specialising in providing quality air conditioning, ventilation and overdoor heater installations, service & maintenance within the retail sector.

arken are a UK design and manufacturing facility creating bespoke poster display solutions. As well as our bespoke offer, we provide off the shelf products such as poster frames, light boxes, poster hanging systems, pavement signs, forecourt signs, all available in a range of colours and sizes.

T +44 777 444 5784 E: benjamin@jpmaglobal.com W: www.jpmaglobal.com

T 01922 455523 E: info@aircontrol.co.uk W: www.aircontrol.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/AirControl123

T: +44 (0)1638 565656 E: info@arken-pop.com W: www.arken-pop.com

T, 01494 774376 E. sales@b-loony.com W. www.b-loony.com

directory

Display

Focused on our customer’s unique needs, with expert knowledge of the procurement market, and a firm grip on the entire visual merchandising supply chain, we are specialists in designing and delivering complex point of sale projects.

T +49 (0) 911 97 13 389 E: info-uk@barthelmess.com W: www.barthelmess.com

Display

Display - DIGITAL

FURNITURE

Crystal Display Systems is already a leading UK designer, distributor and value added reseller of flat panel display solutions. We have a vast array of media players, interactive displays, videowalls and shelf edge displays. Our knowledge and expertise has also led to us being one of the European leaders in transparent LCD.

Spur Creative Workshop deliver unique visual merchandising solutions for retail brands. Boasting a wealth of experience in high quality prop making we create display concepts for window staging, POS and brand awareness campaigns.

T +44 777 444 5784 E: benjamin@jpmaglobal.com W: www.jpmaglobal.com

T: +44 (0) 1634 292 025 E: info@crystal-display.com W: www.crystal-display.com S. www.twitter.com/CrystalDisplays

T 01892 890608 E: phil@spurcreative.co.uk W www.spurcreative.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/ spur_creative

Display

Display - DIGITAL

FURNITURE

Durable have been one of Europe’s largest business supplies manufacturers for almost 100 years. We’re pioneers in developing and producing innovative solutions designed for retail from literature displays and POS to signage and display solutions.

We provide total end to end solutions encompassing all aspects of designing, implementing, managing and supporting multi-faceted marketing technology concepts and Digital Screen Media networks.

We create bespoke tailored solutions for retail, interiors, exhibitions, museums and 3D and we know one size does not fit all. Our teams are always ready for the challenges, big or small.

T 01892 890608 E: phil@spurcreative.co.uk W www.spurcreative.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/ spur_creative

T, +44 (0)845 481 8020 E. info@screenmediatechnology.com W.screenmediatechnology.com S. www.twitter.com/ScreenMediaTech

T: 01923 800666 E: info@stylographics.co.uk W: www.stylographics.com S. www.twitter.com/hellostylo

T. 01202 897 071 E. customeroperations@durable-uk.com W. www.durable-uk.com S. www.twitter.com/durableuk

Display

We are ICON. We create and deliver engaging brand and live experiences, particularly in the retail sector.

T: +44 (0) 20 7593 5200 E: enquiries@icon-world.com W: www.icon-world.com S: www.twitter.com/ICON_HQ

Display

EPOS

GRAPHICS

Providing Scotland’s signage, exhibition displays, digitally printed wallpapers, LED flex faces, light boxes and window graphics. Located in the centre of Scotland we are ideally situated to cover your requirements throughout Scotland. We can offer huge savings with an excellent, professional and prompt service

Offering an extensive range of EPOS hardware from world class suppliers such as Star Micronics, Honeywell and Posiflex, DED offer the complete EPOS hardware solution alongside a unique rewritable loyalty system.

Graphica Display print, produce and install retail graphics including till point graphics, window graphics, LED lightboxes, cut & printed vinyl and much more. Nationwide & Euorpean delivery and installation.

T: 0131 337 1237 E: info@specializedsigns.co.uk W: www.specializedsigns.co.uk FB: Specialized-Signs

T: 01797 320636 E: sales@ded.co.uk W: www.ded.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/dedltd

Display

Impulse POP specialises in Point of Purchase display systems for the Retail sector. We offer many years of experience in all aspects of retail design, with in house manufacture - including quick turnaround prototypes, or overseas manufacture, delivery, installation and retail merchandising.

Woodwood Group –Tx Frame UK are a specialist in tension fabric display systems and LED light boxes. We are able to deliver the highest quality service with a friendly but professional approach to ensure you receive the spectacular results you deserve.

Armourcoat is the world’s foremost supplier of polished plasters, sculptural effects and innovative surface finishes.

T, 01767 682756 E. sales@impulsepop.co.uk W.www.impulsepop.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/impulsepop

T, 01376 295 016 E. sales@txframe.co.uk W. www.txframe.co.uk

T. +44 (0)1732 460 668 E. sales@armourcoat.co.uk W. www.armourcoat.com S. www.twitter.com/Armourcoat

Finishes

T: 0845 3730073 E: info@graphicadisplay.co.uk W:www.graphicadisplay.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/graphicatweet

GRAPHICS

We create bespoke tailored solutions for retail, interiors, exhibitions, museums and 3D and we know one size does not fit all. Our teams are always ready for the challenges, big or small.

T: 01923 800666 E: info@stylographics.co.uk W: www.stylographics.com S. www.twitter.com/hellostylo

directory

interactive displays

MANNEQUINS

pop/pos

Rootstein Display Mannequins is a creative mannequin manufacturer and renovation specialist - delivering both ready-made and bespoke concepts for fashion retailers, globally.

We are IPOS. A creative design agency whose extensive and impressive client list speaks volumes for the professional services we offer. We design, produce and install all aspects of our client’s POS. From instore graphics, window vinyls and 3D bespoke window displays to full multi location campaign roll outs.

T: +44 (0) 1634 292 025 E: info@crystal-display.com W: www.crystal-display.com S. www.twitter.com/CrystalDisplays

T: +44 20 7381 1447 E: sales@adelrootstein.co.uk W: www.rootstein.com/ S. @rootstein_

T: 0161 477 8501 E: info@ipos-design.co.uk W: www.ipos-design.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/iposdesign

T. 01202 897 071 E. customeroperations@durable-uk.com W. www.durable-uk.com S. www.twitter.com/durableuk

LED LIGHTING

pop/pos

Addlux supplies high-tech LED lighting and display technologies for the retail sector, including the largest, thinnest and most cost-effective light sheet on the market today. Fast turnaround of deliveries and prototypes at competitive prices.

Harrison Products provide one the largest ranges of POS and Display componentry in the UK. We are able to supply off the shelf and customised products to suit your project. We pride ourselves on our industry leading service and super quick delivery options.

T: 0333 800 1828 E: info@addlux.com W: www.addlux.com S. www.twitter.com/addlux

T: +44 (0)1451 830083 E: sales@harrisonproducts.net W harrisonproducts.net

signage

pop up

GENESIS MANNEQUINS design and produce high-class and trend-lead shop window mannequins, busts and displays for the international fashion industry. Additionally we offer style, trend and product consultation as well as a comprehensive after-sales service.

T: 01273 585768 E: info@helloflamingo.co.uk W: www.helloflamingo.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/helloflamingo1

T: +49 (0) 5752 1803 0 E: info@genesis-display.com W: www.genesis-display.com S: www.twitter.com/GenesisDisplay

Literature Display

pop/pos

Retail Consultancy

GBL Associates are experts in the point of sale and retail display industry. We pride ourselves in the ability to expand in a competitive and challenging climate by offering both quality and value in the service and products we provide.

We are a global retail agency. Visual Thinking develops strategy, skills, hearts and minds to deliver retail excellence and transform brand performance.

Rootstein Display Mannequins is a creative mannequin manufacturer and renovation specialist - delivering both ready-made and bespoke concepts for fashion retailers, globally.

T. 01376 519124 E. sales@gbl-associates.com W. www.gbl-associates.com S. www.twitter.com/gblassociates

T, +44 (0) 1788 543 331 E. mail@visualthinking.co.uk W. www.visualthinking.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/shoptactics

T: +44 20 7381 1447 E: sales@adelrootstein.co.uk W: www.rootstein.com/ S. @rootstein_

T: +44 (0)1473 229250 E: sales@brochureholders.co.uk W: www.brochureholders.com

Maintenance

T 01922 455523 E: info@aircontrol.co.uk W: www.aircontrol.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/AirControl123

pop/pos

We are ICON. We create and deliver engaging brand and live experiences, particularly in the retail sector.

T: +44 (0) 20 7593 5200 E: enquiries@icon-world.com W: www.icon-world.com S: www.twitter.com/ICON_HQ

slatwall

VM TOOLS AND TRAINING

We are a global retail agency. Visual Thinking develops strategy, skills, hearts and minds to deliver retail excellence and transform brand performance.

T, +44 (0) 1788 543 331 E. mail@visualthinking.co.uk W. www.visualthinking.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/shoptactics

opinion

The many benefits of entering awards

Antony Behiels - Shop and Display Equipment Association

A recent study by Shape-the-Future involving 400 business decision makers revealed an astonishing 82% of those taking part admitted to being influenced by awards when buying products and services for their business. Of these 400, 76% agreed with the statement “Awards are important for generating business or improving the value of a brand”. Winning a business award provides a credible third party endorsement for your company. It gives a stamp of approval on your business whereby customers and partners will feel better about their business relationship with your company. Awards can also be an overlooked tool in your marketing mix. Simply being listed as a nominee for an award can provide a whole host of brand awareness and promote your business to new customers. Winning an award opens doors to new business and new contacts. This is why the Creative Retail Awards were established – to promote entering companies to a worldwide audience. The Awards have quickly become one of the most distinguished accolades within the industry and recognise projects and products that have demonstrated the very highest level of innovation and excellence. The Awards put you centre stage with the world’s most visionary and influential retailers, designers and manufacturers, raising your profile across the industry and on a global scale.

Find out more and enter at

www.creativeretailawards.com

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Retail Focus May/June 2020 #113

Articles inside

Insight Into Consumerism Post COVID-19