Retail Focus #129

To

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Serious about winning

The Creative Retail Awards are much more than a mere accolade; they represent a pinnacle of achievement in the retail industry. Garnering a nomination or winning one of these awards is a testament to innovation, excellence, and leadership.

Submit your entries into our expertly curated categories by the deadline of 31st March 2024.

www.creativeretailawards.com

24

HELLO...

Hello and welcome to the latest issue of Retail Focus, which, as always, is jam-packed full of innovative work, bright ideas and new projects from across the world of retail. Despite 2024 being just a few months old, there has already been plenty to celebrate in the industry, with all sorts going on in markets worldwide and certain trends starting to emerge.

While of course each year brings with it new trends, there are some that have carried over from last year, while others have been shaping the industry for some time now. One of those trends that fall into the latter category is sustainability, with this very much at the forefront of shoppers’ mind.

This month, we take a closer look at the subject to investigate some of the ways retailers can become more environmentally friendly and the long-term benefits this can have on their business. Linking in with this is a special article with Shoplight and tackling the “throwing away” culture in retail.

Also in this issue, we pick out another lasting trend in retail – interactivity – and take a look at how retailers can utilise previously unused surfaces within their stores to improve the overall shopping experience for customers.

On the subject of capturing the attention of consumers, another special feature focuses on pop-up stores and their value within the modern market. In addition, we speak with Charlotte Broadbent, general manager in the UK for Faire, about the other trends that could play a key role in 2024.

As always, we pay tribute to innovation and showcase some of the latest work in the retail sector. You can look

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Retail Focus is published by LTC Digital Ltd

No part of Retail Focus may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without permission. Please address all enquiries to the editor at the above address. The opinions expressed in Retail Focus are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of the information contained in these pages. We will assume permission to publish any unsolicited material unless otherwise stated.

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forward to an in-depth look at Canadian book retailer Indigo and its new store in Toronto, focusing on a clever concept from Dalziel & Pow.

We also lift the lid on Richard James and the £2 million refurbishment of its Grade II listed Georgian townhouse on Clifford Street in London, as well as EE’s new experience store in Gateshead and Adare Manor’s new concept store, designed by Kim Partridge Interiors.

There is also a look back at one of the first major events of the year, ISE 2024 in Barcelona, as well as an update on applications for the 2024 Creative Retail Awards, which takes place in September.

On the subject of honours, the 2024 VM & Display Awards will have taken place by the time the magazine is in your hands. With this, we’d like to take the opportunity to congratulate all the winners and nominees at this year’s event; we very much look forward to featuring you and your work over the pages of Retail Focus soon!

Enjoy this issue.

07949 781817

VM & DISPLAY AWARDS

LONDON | 12 MARCH 2024

The only event dedicated to celebrating excellence and innovation in the retail visual merchandising and display sector, the VM & Display Awards have been successfully running for 27 years, and as a standalone event in its current format for 18 years. Held annually in an iconic, Central London location, the Awards bring together the UK’s most influential creatives, retailers and suppliers in celebration of their considerable achievements for projects installed.

www.vmanddisplayawards.com

VM & DISPLAY SHOW

BDC LONDON | 16 & 17 APRIL 2024

The VM & Display Show is the place for all your visual merchandising and display needs. Visitors can meet with an array of industry experts who can help make displays a reality, from concept to installation. Taking place at the Business Design Centre in London, the VM & Display Show is the only UK exhibition dedicated to this creative industry, bringing together everything from mannequins, print and props to POP, lighting and fabrics - and every in-between - under one roof across two days.

www.vmanddisplayshow.com

RETAIL TECHNOLOGY SHOW

OLYMPIA, LONDON | 24 & 25 APRIL 2024

Connecting retail’s change-makers, the Retail Technology Show brings together Europe’s most forward-thinking retailers and leading tech innovators.

12,000+ Retail & brand professionals attend offering limitless opportunities to network and meet the right people.

400+ Exhibitors showcasing the latest retail tech solutions to help meet your customer’s demands and future-proof your business.

100+ Speakers to keep you up-to-date with the latest trends and challenges from game-changing leaders.

www.retailtechnologyshow.com

SHOPTALK

FIRA GRAN VIA, BARCELONA | 3 - 5 JUNE 2024

Say hello to your one stop shop for connecting with Europe’s most senior retail, brand, tech and investor decision makers pioneering tomorrow’s digital innovations in store and online.

With 4,000+ power players and 1 in 3 being C-suite representing over 70 countries, you’ll be able to pack months of meaningful meetings into just three days to drive your business forward. For 2024, we’re going bigger with an expected 25,000+ meaningful meetings connecting you with decision makers that matter to your company.

www.shoptalkeurope.com

MAPIC

CANNES, FRANCE | 26 - 28

NOVEMBER 2024

MAPIC is the International retail real estate event to build the ultimate lifestyle and shopping destinations. It is an opportunity to learn network with key players at the centre of the retail property industry’s transformation, and be part of creating the exciting new business models that are shaping the places to live, play and shop of the future.

For three days in November the retail property, leisure, food and tech communities will all gather at MAPIC.

www.mapic.com

THE CREATIVE RETAIL AWARDS

LONDON TBC | SEPTEMBER 2024

The Creative Retail Awards are much more than a mere accolade; they represent a pinnacle of achievement in the retail industry. The Creative Retail Awards feature 20 expertly curated categories, offering a broad platform for retailers, brands, agencies, and suppliers to showcase their achievements. This diverse range of categories culminates in an unparalleled awards ceremony, celebrating the remarkable talents and accomplishments within the retail sector. Participation in these categories is not only a recognition of success but also a pivotal moment that can shape the future trajectory of those in the retail industry.

www.creativeretailawards.com

PRIMARK UNVEILS PLANS TO EXTEND METROCENTRE STORE

Sovereign Centros has announced the signing of a significant upsize at Metrocentre for anchor tenant Primark. Adding 14,100 sq ft of trading space, the multinational fashion retailer has shown its commitment to the number one destination in the North East and top 5 UK super regional mall.

Primark first joined Metrocentre nearly 20 years ago, before relocating into its current site in 2010. Anchoring Exhibition Square, a key junction where Yellow, Blue, and Platinum Malls meet, the shopping area of the upsized store will cover nearly 80,000 sq ft. The works to extend into the adjacent unit on the ground floor are currently underway, with an expected opening date to be confirmed for later this summer.

The extended Primark at Gateshead Metrocentre forms part of the retailer’s recent investment of over £100 million in its UK stores this year, as it celebrates 50 years of Primark in Great Britain.

Primark is the latest leading retailer to have re-committed to Metrocentre. Last year, the destination re-anchored the Red Mall by relocating and upsizing international powerhouses Sports Direct, Flannels, and Zara, creating more than 170,000 sq ft of new retail space.

INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLE BRAND, FIG & FOX, OPENS PERMANENT FESTIVAL PLACE LOCATION FOLLOWING SUCCESSFUL POP-UP

Sovereign Centros has announced that local homeware and gifts retailer, Fig & Fox, has opened at Festival Place, one of the UK’s top 25 retail and leisure destinations. The launch of the Hampshire-based brand follows a successful pop-up at the end of 2023, also emphasising the destination’s commitment to supporting local brands and responding to consumer demand for a diverse range of premium retail options.

Founded by couple, James and Helen Mitchell, this opening marks the brand’s second permanent location, joining its sister site in Romsey. The new store showcases Fig & Fox’s independently crafted and ethically sourced collection of design-led products, created in collaboration with local designers and independently owned companies to curate a unique mix of items, including homeware, gifts, cards, jewellery and a selection of personalised products. The Festival Place location also features a takeaway counter serving baristacrafted hot drinks from local coffee roasters, Moonroast Coffee. A range of teas from New Forest Tea and hot chocolates from local handcrafted chocolate retailer, Chococo, are also on offer, as well as fresh baked goods delivered daily from Hoxton Bakehouse Southampton.

Fig & Fox’s store occupies a 1,790 sq ft unit, 50% larger than the pop-up space, allowing for an increased jewellery selection, as well as over 600 plants and a range of glass terrariums. The new space introduces a bespoke shop design aligned with the brand ethos, featuring warm vintage lighting, background music, and accented dark colours throughout to deliver a relaxed shopping experience.

FRASERS GROUP TAKES FORMER JOHN LEWIS SPACE AT QUEENSGATE IN PETERBOROUGH

Queensgate has announced that Frasers Group plc is set to open several dynamic stores in Queensgate, Invesco’s 835,000 sq ft shopping centre, located in the heart of the city.

Frasers Group will open the doors to a Frasers and Sports Direct, occupying the former John Lewis space. These stores will create compelling retail destinations in Queensgate Shopping Centre, together totalling 92,500 sq. ft.

The dynamic Frasers concept store will house an array of aspirational brands across men’s, women’s and kidswear, as well as a homeware and beauty offering, alongside a 30,000 sq. ft Sports Direct. The engaging sports destination will showcase the world’s biggest sports and leisure brands, as well as offer more brands from the Group’s ecosystem including USC, Jack Wills and GAME.

The new stores will provide a compelling brand ecosystem in Queensgate, giving visitors access to the world’s best sports, lifestyle, and premium brands. The duo will also complement existing retailers within the centre.

RITUALS OPEN FIRST STORE IN GRETNA’S CALEDONIA PARK

Rituals to open its first store in Caledonia Park Designer Outlet in Gretna on Thursday, 18th January 2024.

Beauty & wellbeing brand Rituals will be joining an array of companies opening a new store in the Caledonia Park Designer Outlet on Thursday, 18th January. To celebrate, Rituals will be hosting a launch event taking place on Saturday 20th January, 2024 for their consumers.

“Rituals is another fantastic addition to Caledonia Park. Marking its debut outlet store within Scotland, it continues to drive our vision forward of delivering a quality destination that hosts a variety of fashion, beauty, and outdoor wear brands. We look forward to having Rituals as part of our outlet family.”” says Maria Averkina, Asset and Development Manager at Railpen.

Annemarie Forsyth, Managing Director, Rituals Cosmetics (UK & Ireland), says: “We are so excited to be opening this store in the Caledonia Park Designer Outlet, expanding the Rituals interactive experience in the UK. Living during these everchanging, fast-paced times, we understand more than ever the need for creating moments of joy and feeling balanced during our everyday life. The new Rituals store will help customers to achieve a sense of wellbeing by finding the perfect products that will help them to balance the body, mind and soul. This opening marks an exciting time for the brand in growing our retail presence across the UK.”

BRAINTREE VILLAGE WELCOMES FIRST NEW BRAND FOR 2024 BRAINTREE VILLAGE WELCOMES FIRST NEW BRAND FOR 2024

Braintree Village is set to welcome its first new store of the year at the Essex-based outlet today at 10am.

Monsoon, nestled in-between Sunglass Hut and Molton Brown, will stock a range of womenswear and childrenswear collections by the British high-street favourite at discounted outlet prices. The much-loved brand is known for its elegant silhouettes, colourful prints and beautiful attention to detail, with garments designed in-house and sourced ethically from around the world.

What’s more, Braintree Village has announced the annual changeover of its unique multi-seasonal store, with leading Brazilian footwear brand Havaianas opening on Friday 19th January.

The Havaianas store, which is the only outlet branch in Essex, is located near Nike on the centre’s South Mall and replaces the seasonal Happy Socks store which began selling the Swedish brand’s selection of hosiery in October last year. For the next nine months, it will now stock the iconic range of Havaianas flip flops, sandals, sliders and slippers from size 1 (kids) to size 13 (men’s) in a variety of colourful and neutral combinations. Products sold in the store will be sold at 30% off the RRP.

DOBBIES GARDEN CENTRES LAUNCHES OUTLET STORES IN NORTHUMBERLAND AND WARWICKSHIRE

Dobbies, the UK’s leading garden centre, has opened two new outlet stores at its branches in Morpeth in Northumberland and Atherstone in Warwickshire.

The outlet stores stock products from across its homeware; outdoor living; gifts, kids and pets; and gardening ranges with discounts between 30-70% off their usual price.

At Atherstone, the outlet is located in a separate on-site building while Morpeth’s outlet is located near its restaurant within the footprint of the main store with a standalone pay point.

WOLF & BADGER OPENS FLAGSHIP SOHO STORE WITH SHAFTESBURY CAPITAL

Shaftesbury Capital has announced that Wolf & Badger, the award-winning multi-channel retailer, has launched its UK flagship at 102 Berwick Street, in Soho. The opening represents a milestone moment in the brand’s bricksand-mortar presence, and reaffirms Shaftesbury Capital’s portfolio-wide appeal to high-quality retailers.

Wolf & Badger’s 1,400 sq ft unit at 102 Berwick Street presents an everevolving collection of unique items, from a dynamic range of over 100 independent and sustainable brands covering womenswear, menswear, jewellery, accessories, and homeware. The new store redefines the retail experience with a dedicated pop-up space hosting engaging activations, a floristry, and plant shop, as well as a showroom for personal styling.

The brand, which attained B-Corp status in 2021, is a pioneer in the ethical and sustainable fashion movement, making it a leading destination to discover responsibly sourced items. The space, which has been designed by Augustus Brown Architects, boasts a minimalist interior that embodies the Wolf & Badger signature style. It has also been designed to help facilitate deeper engagement with independent, onlinenative brands, providing a multi-channel platform for both retail partners and visitors.

QUINTAIN WELCOMES TIAN TIAN MARKET TO WEMBLEY PARK AND SEES FOOTFALL SURGE OVER LUNAR NEW YEAR

Asian grocery store, Tian Tian Market, which opened in Wembley Park earlier this month (February 2024), has reported a 30% surge in foot traffic over the Lunar New Year weekend, compared to average weekday figures.

Tian Tian signed a 15-year lease with Quintain for the 4,268 sq. ft unit and has enjoyed footfall exceeding all expectations for the entire month of February.

Located close to BOXPARK Wembley and the National Stadium, since opening, the store has quickly become a popular destination for both locals and visitors. Its emergence as a bustling hub during the festive Lunar New Year period, underscores the importance of cultural events in driving local commerce and creating a sense of belonging.

This expansion of Wembley Park’s retail offering reflects Quintain’s ongoing efforts to welcome independent businesses and brands, aligning with their strategy of diversifying the neighbourhood’s offerings.

NEW ZARA STORE AT ATRIA WATFORD OPENS DOORS

• ZARA opens eagerly awaited upsized store - set over two floors

• New store in prime location in Charter Place

atria Watford, one of the UK’s most popular retail and leisure destinations, owned by property company SGS and asset managed by Global Mutual in conjunction with Savills as property managers, is pleased to announce that ZARA’s upsized store has opened at atria Watford.

The newly opened ZARA store is located in a prime position in Charter Place and stocks the brand’s much-loved fashion ranges for women, men and kids.

The two-story store represents a significant upsize and spans 43,000 sq ft - over double the size of the brand’s previous unit (18,000 sq ft.) The retailer has signed a 15-year lease on the new unit.

GLOBALLY RENOWNED LIFESTYLE RETAILER, MINISO HAS ANNOUNCED THE OPENING OF ITS NEWEST STORE AT WESTFIELD STRATFORD CITY

Nestled in the heart of Westfield shopping centre, on the lower ground floor near McDonald’s, MINISO opened its doors to the public at 12 pm on Friday, 1 March.

Spanning just over 2000 sqft, the new store will feature exclusive beauty collections, such as Mad Beauty and the renowned K-Beauty brand TONYMOLY. This opening marks MINISO’s first venture into East London, expanding its presence to seven stores across the city, with this being the second Westfield location in London.

With offerings to suit everyone, MINISO invites visitors to discover a wide range of best-selling items, from the fan-favourite Sanrio Blind Boxes to cuddly plush toys, affordable homewares, and cute accessories. Even better, the Westfield Stratford location will be one of the first MINISO stores in the UK to stock its new Beauty & Self-care range, showcasing face scrubs, hand creams, and eye masks.

THE O2 CONTINUES POSITIVE TRAJECTORY WITH STRONGEST START IN ITS HISTORY

The Entertainment District and Outlet Shopping at The O2, which are owned and operated by Waterfront Limited Partnership, a joint venture between AEG and Crosstree Real Estate Partners, have experienced their strongest start to a trading year with stellar results throughout January and February, including half-term, resulting in the destination expecting to top 2023’s record-breaking year of results.

The O2 has witnessed its most successful start in it’s history, with the destination welcoming over 1.5 million visitors from 1 January – 25 February, marking an outstanding 46% increase compared to the same period last year. Hand-in-hand with the rise of visitors, The O2 also experienced a 25% increase in sales compared to 2023, with average weekly sales having increased by 18%. More specifically, Outlet Shopping at The O2 saw an uplift of 18% in sales versus the same period in 2023, bolstered by the sample sales of authentic British fashion retailer Hackett, and purpose-led fashion brand, Scamp & Dude. The Entertainment District also recorded stellar results, with a 30% rise in sales compared to 2023.

Across the whole scheme The O2 welcomed a staggering 45% rise in footfall and 37% rise in sales during the half-term weeks compared to 2023. Sales across specific categories also increased, with ‘Grab and Go’ F&B, Homeware, and Leisure seeing an uplift of 109%, 40%, and 34% respectively compared to the same period last year. The O2’s impressive start to the year and continual success in delivering an active offer, environment, and experience for visitors, further cements its position as a destination of choice across the capital and the wider UK.

NOT ON THE HIGH STREET FOUNDER, HOLLY TUCKER MBE, CONFIRMED TO HEADLINE AT THE RETAIL TECHNOLOGY SHOW

27 FEBRUARY 2024 -- London, UK -- The Retail Technology Show (RTS), the leading industry event that connects retail’s changemakers and leading tech innovators, has announced that Holly Tucker MBE, Founder of Holly & Co and Not On The High Street, will deliver a keynote session as part of its trailblazing 2024 conference programme.

Taking place at London Olympia on the 24 and 25 April 2024, RTS is retail’s flagship event that brings the sector’s sharpest minds and leading luminaries to the stage. Tucker will deliver a keynote session on the Headline Stage during the afternoon of Day 1, which will explore how online retailers can use innovation to scale their ecommerce brands.

Tucker will discuss best practice strategies for leveraging data from multiple sources across a business and how to use that insight to power informed decision-making and create the greatest business impact. Drawing on her experiences from growing Not On The High Street from a start-up to the UK’s leading online platform for independent retail, as well as founding Holly & Co, an organisation that supports small businesses and entrepreneurs, Tucker will also explore which technologies present the best ROI when it comes to delivering successful and impactful data initiatives.

AI, Data & Innovation will be one of six Conference Programme tracks which will feature at RTS 2024, and will be chaired by Customer Whisperer, Kate Hardcastle MBE, on the Headline Stage on Day 1. Tucker will join other innovation leaders on the Headline Stage, including Dex Hunter-Torricke, who will draw from his experiences working at Google, DeepMind, Meta and SpaceX to deliver a keynote on the impact of Gen AI and how retailers can make sense of this game-changing opportunity. His session will outline key AI lessons, real-life applications and benefits, and will unpick its potential to disrupt the industry and how retailers need to evolve their risk and compliance processes to be ready for the Gen AI revolution.

SKIN ROCKS BY CAROLINE HIRONS EXTENDS UK PRESENCE WITH LIBERTY PARTNERSHIP

Skin Rocks announces its launch into the iconic beauty halls of London retailer Liberty as part of the skincare brand’s UK expansion. This highly anticipated launch brings together Caroline’s expertise with the prestige of Liberty, offering consumers a glimpse into the Skin Rocks world via the brand’s first standalone, in-store counter.

The new counter is situated in the hubbub of Liberty’s iconic beauty hall and will not only present the award-winning product line but also complimentary, walk-in-only services, a first for the brand. The services on launch will include ROUTINE RESET™ and THE GLOW BOOSTER curated by the expertise of Caroline Hirons to help beauty enthusiasts to achieve their healthiest skin.

SHAFTESBURY CAPITAL WELCOMES ARC’TERYX FOR NEW COVENT GARDEN FLAGSHIP

Shaftesbury Capital has announced that Arc’teryx, the highperformance outdoor apparel brand, has now opened its new flagship store within the newly refurbished listed building at 41-42 King Street in Covent Garden. This follows previous success on Long Acre and represents a key milestone within the brand’s brick-andmortar journey, and the continual pull of Shaftesbury Capital as the go-to location for expansion within the West End.

Arc’teryx’s new flagship store spans 8,000 sq ft and delivers a wide variety of the brand’s technical gear, footwear, and accessories, incorporating a range of outdoor sports such as trail running, climbing, hiking, skiing and more. The new space also provides a range of services, such as Arc’teryx’s circularity programme, ReBIRD™, which focuses on the care, repair, and up-cycling of its products. The space boasts a clean and minimal interior, as well as a community room and knowledgeable product guides to enhance the visitor experience.

COVENT GARDEN TO WELCOME NEW CONCEPT, THIRTY7, FROM MASTERMINDS BEHIND THE OYSTERMEN

Shaftesbury Capital has announced that new all-day dining concept, thirty7, has selected Covent Garden for its debut location. Conceived by Hampton Lovell & Co, the founders of critically acclaimed seafood and oyster restaurant The Oystermen, the launch of thirty7 marks their third hospitality venue within the Covent Garden neighbourhood, further reemphasising the destination’s commitment to curating strong relationships with existing occupiers and incubating innovative new concepts.

Joining Matt Lovell and Rob Hampton’s two other locations within the portfolio, The Oystermen and Bedford Street Wines, thirty7 will be opening a 1,544 sq ft space at 37 Bedford Street that will seat 45 diners, including a basement cocktail bar. Renowned for pairing informal spaces with culinary excellence, the new restaurant is Hampton and Lovell’s newest venture and will showcase their signature dedication to old-school dining values and sustainability, placing importance on provenance and sourcing high-quality ingredients to curate the ultimate dining experience.

LIVERPOOL ONE CONTINUES TO ATTRACT LEADING RETAIL BRANDS WITH NEW REGIONAL FLAGSHIP AND UNIQUE ACTIVATIONS

Grosvenor has announced a flurry of retail additions and activations at Liverpool ONE from leading UK fashion brands and cult online favourites, as the destination continues to be the location of choice for both established and innovative retailers.

British fashion and lifestyle brand, White Stuff, has officially launched its regional flagship store on Liverpool ONE’s Peter’s Lane. The new 1,800 sq ft location features an elevated design format, and the best of White Stuff’s womenswear and menswear, including its new Spring Collection.

Fast-growing online womenswear brand, Sisters & Seekers, has selected Liverpool ONE’s South John Street to bring its popular curation of clothing, activewear and accessories to the city for the first time.

Marking ARNE’s third pop-up activation at Liverpool ONE, the popular online men’s and women’s contemporary clothing and footwear brand brought its custom-built ‘Grab Machine’ to Paradise Place earlier this month. Welcoming queues of visitors with the chance to win a pair of ARNE’s Technical Runners, the activation follows the brand’s two pop-ups at Liverpool ONE in 2023.

WILDANNOUNCE THEIR HIGHLY ANTICIPATED LAUNCH OF STANDALONE BAYS IN TESCO STORES

Wild, leaders in sustainable natural body care, are thrilled to announce their highly anticipated launch of standalone bays in Tesco stores across the nation. Commencing February 26th, customers can experience the sustainable revolution in personal care as Wild debuts its comprehensive range of deodorants, brand new hair care, and body washes. The rollout encompasses 744 Tesco locations nationwide, including 69 stores featuring the fully branded Wild bay and 675 stores equipped with shelf trays stocked with Wild’s environmentally conscious offerings.

Wild adds to its existing range of deodorants stocked in Tesco stores, as this launch primarily introduces the brand new selection of body wash and hair care (shampoo and conditioner), along with a range extension in deodorants. With a commitment to reducing plastic in the bathroom and utilising natural ingredients, Wild aims to redefine personal care routines while minimising environmental impact.

LULULEMON TO RELOCATE AND UPSIZE WITHIN THE YARDS, COVENT GARDEN

Longmartin Properties Ltd, a joint venture between Shaftesbury Capital and the Mercers’ Company, has announced that technical athletic apparel brand, lululemon, will be relocating and upsizing its flagship store within The Yards, Covent Garden.Taking a new, prominent corner unit on Long Acre, the new 8,364 sq ft store will mark an 130% upsize and is a strong vote of confidence in the destination from a leading international brand.

Set to open later this summer, the flagship West End store will showcase lululemon’s range of activewear products for activities including yoga, running and training and more, across its womenswear, menswear, footwear and accessories lines.

lululemon’s upsized store will join The Yards’ extensive line up of sportwear brands, including Pineapple, Snow+Rock and Runners Need, alongside premium fashion brands on Long Acre, including Levi’s and Reiss. Covent Garden is also home to Canadian high performance outdoor apparel and accessories brand, Arc’teryx, and HOKA’s first ever retail location in Europe.

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SDEA UPDATE

The Shop & Display Equipment Association (SDEA), the leading force in the retail design and display industry, has recently announced exciting plans for 2024 that promise to boost creativity and innovation within our sector. With the launch of the Creative Retail Awards 2024, the introduction of the SDEA Newswire PR service and the upcoming unveiling of the Design & Display Directory at the VM & Display Show in April, it’s going to be another busy year.

The Creative Retail Awards 2024 have officially opened for entries, offering a global platform for businesses to showcase their most innovative and creative designs. The prestigious Awards recognises excellence in areas such as visual merchandising, store design and retail display solutions. As always, entries for SDEA members are completely free of charge, underscoring the Association’s commitment to supporting its members and fostering creativity within the industry.

As part of our ongoing commitment to provide the most complete range of services and benefits to our members, we are excited to announce the launch of a brand-new offering – the SDEA Newswire. This new service is designed to heighten our members’ public relations efforts. We understand the importance of getting their news and updates in front of the right audience, and to support them in this we offer a fortnightly distribution service to over 200 publications – all completely free of charge.

SDEA members can utilise this service to amplify their brand presence, share success stories, and stay connected with the industry. The SDEA Newswire PR service is set to become an invaluable tool for our members looking to enhance their visibility and build meaningful connections within the design and display sector.

One of the most eagerly anticipated publications from the SDEA is the forthcoming 2024 Design & Display Directory. This comprehensive handbook is scheduled to make its debut at the VM & Display Show in April. The Design & Display Directory serves as a go-to resource for those seeking expertise and products in retail design and display. With a curated list of store designs, industry professionals and suppliers the Directory is an indispensable tool for anyone involved in the sector.

As the retail landscape evolves the SDEA remains at the forefront, providing its members with valuable resources and opportunities to thrive in an ever-changing market. With the Creative Retail Awards already open for entries and the anticipation building for the 2024 Design & Display Directory launch, the SDEA continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the retail industry.

For those seeking to stay updated on the latest industry developments, our SDEA App is the go-to platform. The App offers access to the latest Design & Display Directory, a complete member list, past issues of Shoptalk magazine and updates on SDEA and industry events. It has become increasingly popular among users for its convenience and accessibility. To download the App simply search ‘SDEA Design & Display’ on either the Apple App store or Google Play, or follow the link at: https://linktr.ee/shopanddisplay

As we look forward to an eventful year ahead, we encourage everyone to keep abreast of the latest news and updates by visiting www.shopdisplay.org and following @ ShopandDisplay on Twitter and Instagram.

Suppliers can seize unparalleled opportunities, such as discounts, networking and marketing benefits by becoming members of the Association. For more information, please email enquiries@sdea.co.uk for our latest membership offers.

Retail, hospitality and leisure operators are invited to join the SDEA RHL Group for free, gaining access to complimentary invitations to events and services. Get in touch with us today to join.

INDIGO – NEW STORE CONCEPT @ THE WELL PARTNERING WITH DALZIEL & POW.

Canada’s leading book retailer approached Dalziel & Pow to create a concept for a key new opening in Toronto. This 16,000 sqft experience honours its Canadian roots and the community that makes each Indigo location a self-declared “happy place” for customers.

The concept is a book-lovers paradise in the heart of downtown Toronto where in addition to a range of 40,000 books curated for the location, shoppers can experience a paper & stationery shop, home fragrance counter and music corner, equipped with a juke-box, for a playful nod to the nostalgic. The entire space is surrounded by an abundance of curated books alongside a dedicated manga & graphic novel zone with space for customers to dwell. The IndigoKids department includes a central hub, surrounded by books and toys for creativity, play and storytimes. Indigo additionally partnered with Propeller Coffee Co. to offer a truck serving up pastries and coffee beverages while you shop.

The interior is lined with full height library shelving, covering all categories with an expansive range of 40,000 books. If the perimeter is dominated by a consistent presentation of the book range, the centre-floor is a flowing journey through various stand-out features. Individual offers are treated almost like ‘pop-up’ shops within the store, each having their own space created by open structures you can walk through or dwell within.

All timber perimeter walls are fixed, but floor-standing ‘walls’ are flexible, able to be locked and unlocked into a high-level frame for repositioning. Capsule lifestyle departments are spread around the perimeter, Manga (the coolest in Toronto), Art & Design, Travel, Lifestyle, Cookery... all categories combine the book offer with complementary gifting and accessories. The back of the space is an immersive Kids and Baby offer, with elements of play to entertain the younger visitors. This is an inspiring section for IndigoKids and Indigobaby which includes, in addition to a rich selection of books, an area for creativity and play.

Flexible event space is created to accommodate a calendar of activities, from craft classes to poetry readings. Visitors are encouraged to dwell with capsules of seating around

the space in addition to the hospitality clustered around the Propeller Coffee Co. truck.

While not the largest store in the Indigo real estate portfolio, it isa showroom for the best and most popular products. Online browsing for books, ordering and collection are positively encouraged in the space. There is a dedicated online order pickup desk to accommodate the growing demand for pre-ordered items to be picked up instore. The service desks are distinctive with their eclectic styling, creating a new 3D brand language for Indigo. There are also a number of new and unique tech and sustainability components, including: Touch screen book recommendation tool that sorts books into genres and themes to help customers find their next great read.

Fujifilm GetPix Quick Kiosk which allows customers to upload photos from their devices and print them. Customers can also take photos in front of the Selfie Wall.

Deep Lake Water Cooling system harnesses the renewable cold temperature of Lake Ontario.

Carpet tile in the IndigoKids section carries 84 per cent recycled content

Store fixtures fabricated and manufactured locally in Georgetown & Scarborough, Ontario

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS - BDP | Nick Caville

RENOWNED SAVILE ROW MENSWEAR BRAND UNVEILS ‘THE HOUSE OF RICHARD JAMES’

Richard James is thrilled to announce the unveiling of the £2 million refurbishment of itsGrade II listed Georgian townhouse - the new ‘House of Richard James’.

Thirty-two years after metaphorically gate-crashing Savile Row with a rebellious spirit and boundary-pushing approach to tailoring, renowned luxury menswear label Richard James will mark the opening with a VIP event on 29th February.

The 2,500 sq ft store and workspace located on Clifford Street, directly opposite the brand’s Savile Row store, has been reimagined as a three-storey temple to beautifully crafted ready-to-wear and bespoke tailoring.

The brand - launched in 1992 with a £10,000 overdraft by designer Richard James and co-founder Sean Dixonswiftly made its mark in British luxury menswear, rising to prominence on the wave of Britpop, and attracting an entirely different audience of Young British Artists and cult musicians to The Row.

The brand’s established status on Savile Row has been underlined by the new Clifford Street space, which has been overseen by celebrated international interior designer David Thomas.

Thomas delved into the Richard James archives with the brand’s Creative Director Toby Lamb for references that appear throughout - the polka dot carpet leading to the

first floor, striped curtains echoing silk ties, and custom rugs inspired by pocket square designs across the years. Colour is key to the experience; walls are saturated in rich immersive hues of Blue Pearl, Rhubarb, Noon Whiskey yellow, Caravan orange with deep Georgetown red tones that simultaneously envelope and open up the space leaving customers cocooned and revitalised all at once. David Thomas said, “I felt strongly about respecting the building’s exterior architecture – the only all white building on Clifford Street – and bringing back the interior to its former glory. Restoring the original details, whilst adding elements of modernity through the DTD-designed cabinetry and soft furnishings.”

Previously home to Richard James Bespoke and the label’s made-to-measure tailoring at ground level, the new vastly expanded space is elevated into an entire Richard James experience with ready-to-wear, bespoke, special projects, exclusive limited editions, and one-offs only available in-store. In an effort to make the house a destination for discovery and a place where clients and the brand can converge, Richard James plans to also utilise the first-floor space to connect with its community through an exciting program of events and talks.

As clients arrive at the ground floor, they are welcomed by the brand’s latest ready-to-wear collection. This product is housed on custom made rails and English walnut angular shelving units finished with brushed brass edging.

Upstairs, clients are transported to a new-age gentlemen’s club, as the 1st floor boasts a cocktail bar, mid- century seating and lounge spaces and roomy changing areas. Relaxed luxury is the name of the game, delivered via bold use of colour, texture, and pattern, which are direct references to the brand’s approach to tailoring. And accentuating Richard James’ long-standing connection with the art world, the walls feature limited-edition prints by artists including Marc Quinn, Howard Hodgkin and Albert Irwin.

The basement will contain the house’s state-of-the-art workshop space. All floors are connected via a tailor- made lift featuring an array of framed magazine covers that feature the great and the good wearing the brand from the 1990s onwards.

Underneath a vintage 1970s Murano chandelier is a wall of the biggest selection of fabrics ever offered in luxury menswear, from global greats including Loro Piana, Scabal and Vitale Barberis Canonico to British classics including Fox Brothers, Harrisons and Dugdale Bros & Co.

Co-founder and Managing Director Sean Dixon, said: “We’re seeing a real renaissance of the suit and it’s important our clients feel at home as soon as they step inside.’ “It should be a very relaxing experience and should not be intimidating – our aim is to make it like a spa experience for men.”

History Recap

Early fans included Liam Gallagher, Damon Albarn, the Chapman Brothers, Damian Hirst and Jarvis Cocker as well as stars from the US such as Robert DeNiro, Dustin Hoffman and Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs. However, it was national treasure (now Sir), Elton John who became the brand’s first real patron, helping to firmly place it on the map.

Today the brand continues to attract A-listers and next-gen legends including Stormzy, Jacob Elordi, Andrew Garfield, Tom Hardy, Chris Pine, John Legend, Theo James, Brad Pitt, Simon Pegg, Michael Ward and Benedict Cumberbatch to name a few.

Richard James suits range from £1,500 for off-the-peg to £2,000 for made-to-measure to around £6,000 for a bespoke tailored piece – experienced tailors and expert staff will be on hand to help guide customers.

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EE OPENS NEW GATESHEAD EXPERIENCE STORE IN THE METROCENTRE WITH FORMER NEWCASTLE UNITED LEGEND SHAY GIVEN

• EE is launching its first Experience store of 2024 in one of the top shopping destinations in the North East, the Metrocentre in Gateshead

• It comes as EE reveals plans to level up the consumer shopping experience throughout the UK, opening more than ten Experience and Experience Local stores over the next year

• EE will invest £6M in the next 12 months* to continue transforming its stores, as part of its commitment to offer the most personal, customer-focused service on the high street

• The new Gateshead Experience store will open in the Metrocentre at 12pm on Friday 9th February, with an exclusive appearance from former Newcastle United legend, Shay Given

Friday, 9th February 2024: EE is today unveiling its latest Experience store alongside former Newcastle United legend Shay Given in the Metrocentre, Gateshead, one of Europe’s largest indoor mall-style shopping centres. The new store is the fourth of EE’s Experience stores and the first of more than ten brand-new EE Experience and Experience Local stores set to open in the UK over the next year. The announcement comes as EE commits to investing £6 million in the British high street in the next 12 months, a sign of EE’s belief in, and ongoing commitment to, brickand-mortar retail.

EE continues to reinvent retail in the telco industry, putting customer experience, community focus and innovation at the heart of its strategy to be the most personal, customer

focused brand in the UK. This approach has seen the launch of new store formats including its flagship Studio store in London, Experience stores in Manchester, Cardiff and Kent, and most recently its Experience Local stores in Derby and Guildford.

The new retail strategy was announced in June 2023 with the launch of the EE Studio store in Westfield London, White City. Featuring an immersive Digital Spa to support customers’ wellbeing and a Gaming Zone, the innovative new store has seen an increase in footfall by 250% compared to the previous EE store in Westfield London, White City.

EE’s refreshed retail approach continues to be well-received by customers across the country. The Experience stores in

Kent, Cardiff and Manchester have all seen footfall increase by 35% compared to the previous stores in these locations.

Now, EE is bringing its latest store format to the Metrocentre in Gateshead, one of the top five UK regional supermalls. The Metrocentre experienced an incredibly successful 2023, and increased dwell time by 15%, with EE’s new Experience store expected to bring in even more customers.

The EE Experience store occupies a new, bigger site and has been designed with dedicated experience zones and a connected home zone with living room set to give shoppers in the greater Newcastle area a more immersive space to get hands on with the latest connected technology. Those visiting the store will discover the future of connected living across four key areas: work, home, learn and game.

The experience zones include:

Welcome Zone: A welcoming and dynamic shopfront, featuring a digital window canvas, letting customers see the latest product launches and in-store offers before they even step inside.

Gaming Zone: Featuring the most up-to-date games and consoles, customers can level up their gaming experience in-store. EE Guides will offer expert advice on bundles and plans, allowing shoppers to unlock their inner gamer.

Base Camp: An inviting area for customers to sit down and stay a while, complete with comfortable sofas, as well as work benches and collaborative worktops, allowing customers to catch up on emails, or chat to EE Guides about products, services and repairs.

Tech Live: Consumers can shop with confidence, testing out tech before making a purchase. The newest tech is on display and is refreshed regularly, with visitors able to browse and purchase online.

The Experience store also brings to life the future of the connected home, with shoppers able to see the potential first-hand through a curated connected home zone including tech and online security tools that enhance the working-from-home experience, and a living room complete with super-fast broadband, a smart TV and connected speakers.

Shay Given, Newcastle United legend, said: “EE has scored with its new shop in the Metrocentre, bringing tech, experiences and expert advice to shoppers – a winning hat-trick. It’s great to be part of the team alongside the EE Guides today as the 12thman, opening the store for the brilliant people of Newcastle, and beyond, to visit”.

EE is committed to offering the most personal, customerfocused service on the high street. The team in the Metrocentre store are encouraged to show their personal interests and passion for tech in their day-to-day roles, advising customers on how to elevate their everyday with connected technology and helping to digitally upskill the local community.

Asif Aziz OBE, Retail Director at EE, said: “We are excited to launch our latest Experience store in the brilliant tech hub of Newcastle, giving our customers and the local community a chance to experience the newest innovations across smart home and gaming. We are committed to elevating the retail experience for shoppers across the UK through a multi-million-pound investment that will transform our stores over the next year. Our ambition is to be the most personal, customer-focused brand in the UK, and our new Gateshead Experience store plays a key part in bringing this to life”.

Ben Cox, Senior Asset Manager at Sovereign Centros, said: “EE’s new Experience store is a fantastic addition to the Metrocentre’s Platinum Mall, embedding itself next to key retailers within the scheme. It emphasises the importance of physical and experiential retail in elevating the shopping experience for visitors and following EE’s previous success at Metrocentre in Red Mall, we’re pleased to see further commitment by the brand in a new and enhanced space as the centre continues to evolve, following a strong 2023”.

The Gateshead EE Experience store opens in the Metrocentre at 12pm on Friday 9th February, with an exclusive appearance from former Newcastle United legend, Shay Given. Throughout the day, exclusive-in store deals, offers and entertainment will be available for shoppers.

For more information, please visit www.ee.co.uk

ADARE MANOR LAUNCHES BRANDNEW RETAIL CONCEPT STORE DESIGNED BY KIM PARTRIDGE

INTERIORS

Ireland’s Leading Luxury Hotel Debuts New Boutique with Unique Collaborations Exclusive to the Resort

February 16, 2024 - Ireland: Adare Manor, Europe’s most beloved countryside resort debuts a new shopping experience with the launch of a uniquely designed retail Boutique. Showcasing incredible artisans and craftsmanship from Ireland and Europe designers alongside the much-loved Adare Manor products, the new guest experience has been created following the success of the property’s online retail concept and former on-site gift store.

The new store, which removed a two-bedroom suite at the resort, has almost tripled the floor area and transformed the boutique, which now stocks curated collections and collaborations with leading independent designers, Irish artisans and world-renowned luxury brands. Guests can expect to see brands such as Fabergé, Rue de Verneuil, Anya Hindemarch, Urban Aran, Prêt Pour Partir, Bourrienne Paris, Bernardaud and Acqua di Parma, most of which aren’t found anywhere else in Ireland.

With three distinct areas to explore, the beautiful space has been designed by acclaimed designer Kim Partridge

Interiors, who helmed the property’s current interior design, and will celebrate the very best in Irish and European design. The first space serves up jewellery and accessories, pantry items and a rotating designer pop-up, with the second for home, bath and beauty, to recreate the luxury Adare Manor experience at home. Last but not least is the fragrance room, which features timeless scents including aromas from Adare Manor’s own perfumier.

Brendan O’Connor, General Manager at Adare Manor commented “Our guests are always seeking to take home a memory of Adare Manor when they visit, whether that’s the bathroom amenities that they experience during their stay, or one of our scented candles, which are one of our most popular items sold in The Boutique. With this new shopping experience, we are hoping guests will be inspired by the new collaborations with some of Ireland’s leading designers, to take home something even more unique from their stay with us.”

Kim Patridge commented “‘We married the practicalities of the space with an elevated interpretation of brand

values and a considered user experience; one that celebrates the luxury experience which is Adare Manor. Each room offers a new experience, creating a defined journey for the guest as they walk through The Boutique, as one might walk through a home, enjoying the ambiance of different rooms. Approaching the space in this way created a pleasing cohesion with Adare Manor’s reputation for feeling as grand as it does intimate, inviting and homelike. This evolved into the creation of a scent room, an apothecary pantry, a room which promotes bed and bath and a room for fashion and jewellery.

We sourced the finest materials with no compromises; rich walnut, Irish green marble, supple leather and soft wool were used. It was imperative that the space was infused with architectural integrity, marrying the Gothic

grandeur of Adare Manor with a feeling of being at the front edge of design. We felt it important to create a sense of place by developing an environment that reflected the vernacular of the hotel, the landscape and beyond, the physical representation of Irish culture and spirit.”

The new boutique will soon be followed with a new gourmet-focused guest experience with the launch of the Harry Lowe’s Chocolatier House in the Summer, which will offer guests chocolate tasting and workshop experiences, alongside gifting opportunities. Both resort updates are in the continued effort to elevate the guest experience, unrivalled anywhere else in Europe.

For more information about the online boutique, please visit: https://shop.adaremanor.com/

SUSTAINABLE SHOPPING: WHAT OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE TO RETAILERS?

By Rob Fletcher

With sustainability becoming an increasingly important factor for consumers, Retail Focus takes a look at the steps that retailers can take to become more environmentally friendly and the benefits this can have on their wider business.

To put it simply, there is no escaping the subject of sustainability in retail. If you walk up and down the aisles of supermarkets, clothes shops or even furniture stores, you will notice that more brands are shouting about their commitment to protecting the environment, be it via packaging or marketing messages.

With brands already doing their part, it is only right, and smart, that retailers follow suit and take similar steps to improve their sustainability. Not only will this reduce their own impact on the planet, but help paint their stores, and

Bright idea

Retailers can start by looking at their stores and what they can change to have an almost immediate impact on sustainability. One of the most obvious areas that comes to mind is lighting, with this not only playing a key role in retail strategies, but also their overall energy use.

Step forward Shoplight, which has worked with a wide range of clients in the retail sector on strategies to improve their lighting while reducing energy usage. Sara Drawwater, marketing director at Shoplight, said that sustainable retail benefits the environment and aligns with consumer expectations, social responsibility and economic viability. She added retailers that prioritise sustainability are poised for success as they are more responsive to the demands and expectations of the modern consumer.

“By embracing more sustainable practices retailers can make a positive environmental impact, reducing their carbon footprint, combat climate change, and protect our planet,” Drawwater said.

“Retailers must also consider their consumers, and modern consumers are prioritising sustainability. In a 2021 article, The Path Forward for Retail’s Sustainable Future, McKinsey & Company said during the pandemic, 65% of German and UK consumers expressed a desire to buy high-quality items that last longer, while 64% of Chinese consumers considered more environmentally friendly products.

“Also consider the value of stakeholder capitalism: prioritising the interests of employees, customers and communities, as well as shareholders. By recognising a company’s success is intertwined with the well-being of all those affected by its operations moves beyond profits for shareholders to include responsible corporate behaviour, sustainability, and a broader societal impact.

“Finally, sustainable practices can lead to cost savings, improved efficiency, and better use of resources. Focusing

indeed wider business, in a more sustainable light that will appeal more to consumers that share a similar passion.

The good news for retailers is that there are plenty of changes, often simple, that they can make to bolster their environmental credentials. While this of course may involve some level of spending, the long-term benefits will almost certainly make this investment worthwhile.

With this in mind, Retail Focus picks out some examples of retailers that have strengthened their sustainability and explore how others can take a similar approach.

on more circular practices like a reduce-reuse-andrecycle mentality pushes retailers to make economically responsible choices which align with better environmental choices.”

While the demand is there, Drawwater said it is likely not possible for a retail brand to move towards responsible manufacturing, better materials, and eco-friendly practices overnight. However, an approach of continuous improvement is more plausible. She added that as demand for sustainable products grows, companies will be able to achieve economies of scale, and factors like this will bring the down the cost of manufacturing and supplying greener options.

With this, Drawwater flags certain offerings from Shoplight, including its new retail spotlight in the form of NORT GS. Following in the footsteps of NORT, Shoplight’s first sustainable bio-polymer retail spotlight, Drawwater said NORT GS comes at a price comparable to imported aluminium spotlights.

“Through its bio-polymer product range Shoplight helps retailers achieve sustainability through the fabric of their buildings,” Drawwater said. “This is a retail lighting range that cuts down energy usage, reduces production and transport emissions and minimises landfill waste.

“This range of bio-polymer luminaires go beyond being your average retail lighting products. Shoplight is a certified B Corp, embracing that continuous improvement approach. Its bio-polymer retail lights are eco-champions that give retailers a more sustainable lighting option that contributes to a more sustainable future.”

Left: Retailers should consider putting in place evolving sustainable strategies

Trialling new ideas

Also in this area is DZD, which, established in 1989, is a Some retailers have built on existing ideas and expanded these practices to offer customers a more environmentally friendly way of shopping. One example that leaps out is Lidl, which in February this year became the first supermarket to roll out its own bottle return scheme trial.

Launching in 21 stores across Glasgow, the scheme offers customers unlimited cash rewards in return for empty PET plastic and aluminium drinks containers via in-store reverse vending machines. For each eligible item that they return, shoppers will receive a 5p reward that can be redeemed against their shopping or donated to Lidl’s charity partner, The STV Children’s appeal.

Such is Lidl’s optimism over the scheme, which replicates similar setups in other countries such as Germany, it is anticipated that the pilot will result in a minimum 10.5

Planning for the future

While many retailers have in place some form of environmental policies, there is still work to do, given the advancements with sustainability methods. Estée Lauder Companies is one such business, having created its new Responsible Store Design program, which provides a framework for assessing new and existing retail stores

Parameters for the assessment include design of visual merchandising across sustainability related areas such as waste reduction, water and energy conservation, and responsible material sourcing. Criteria for the program, which Estée Lauder said has been deemed a “meaningful evaluation of green building standards”, was developed with the assistance of a sustainability consulting firm with expertise in green building design.

“To engage in the program, participating brands must meet relevant program prerequisites, which vary based on the retail space and store type,” Estée Lauder said. “For both new and existing stores, these requirements span store build-out, energy and water, responsible sourcing

What’s on your shelves?

Of course, the products that you sell can also impact sustainability: the more planet friendly these are, the better your environmental credentials will be. What is more, commitment to this way of working is seemingly proving popular with investors.

Take All Good Things, an independent retailer that exclusively sells pre-loved, fragmented or repaired clothing, for example. Recently, the retailer received a £2.5m equity investment from Souter Investments, in conjunction with a broad base of experienced retail industry alumni. These include Ben Barnett, the former CEO of TFG London, Helen Williamson, who was previously managing director of Whistles, and ex-Jigsaw CEO, Charlie Atterton.

tonnes of plastic and aluminium material being recycled each month. All material will be retained and used to create new plastic and aluminium product.

“We’re on a mission to eliminate all unnecessary waste, and with over 95% of our own-brand packaging now recyclable, reusable, or refillable we’ve been making great progress,” Lidl GB chief commercial officer Richard Bourns said.

“We know Lidl shoppers share this passion, and we hope that utilising this infrastructure, which might otherwise have been left dormant, will help to make recycling their cans and bottles even more convenient for them. With our extra incentive thrown in, and no cap on the number of items that can be recycled, it’s a win-win for all.”

The Lidl Return Scheme trial will run in participating Glasgow stores from 8 February to 11 August.

of materials, visual merchandising, store operations and innovation.”

New stores will be evaluated on a point-based scoring system, with each individual location evaluated based on various sustainability efforts across retail design and operations. As for existing stores and visual merchandising, a checklist of prerequisites ensures each location meets core sustainability requirements.

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Over the past 12 months, All Good Things partnered with over 200 fashion brands from the UK and Europe, with the aim of building greater sustainability into its supply chain. These partnerships, All Good Things said, provide a sustainable, physical home for fragmented stock, as well as pre-loved clothing returned by customers for recycling. By doing so, it reduces the amount of unworn clothing that ends up in landfill and extends the lifespan of each piece.

“The growth of All Good Things has been a labour of love for the team,” All Good Things CEO Keith Bristow said. “Establishing a new, sustainable retail concept has involved a considerable journey, and one for which we owe a debt of gratitude to our forward-thinking brand partners, who have over-turned convention and built us proactively into their supply chain.”

Bristow’s comments offer an apt conclusion to the feature. There is plenty that retailers can do to improve their sustainability. But the important thing to remember is that this need not include wholesale changes; start small by making small changes and build on this to secure a brighter, and greener, future for your business.

Establishing a new, sustainable retail concept has involved a considerable journey

Above: All Good Things is partnered with 200 fashion brands from the UK and Europe to help give a second life to garments

Right: Lidl has launched a bottle recycling trial at its stores in Glasgow

THE ADOPTION OF POP-UP STORES BY LUXURY BRANDS

Ghalia BOUSTANI. Senior retail consultant at Univers Retail | Published author | Visiting lecturer.

The concept of pop-up stores has a rich and diverse history, stemming from various cultural and commercial phenomena spanning centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the vibrant European Christmas markets, notably the Vienna December market in 1928, which showcased temporary installations and seasonal merchandise, laying the foundation for the temporary retail experience.

However, it wasn’t until 1997 that the modern incarnation of pop-up stores began to take shape, notably with the Ritual Expo, a one-day “ultimate hipster mall” conceptualised by Patrick Courrielche. This event served as a catalyst for the popularisation of pop-up retail, captivating large brands like AT&T, Levi Strauss, and Motorola, who recognised the potential of these temporary stores to engage young demographics in innovative ways.

The evolution of pop-up stores took another significant turn in 2009 when the concept expanded beyond retail to encompass industries such as food and beverage, capitalising on the principles of ephemerality and exclusivity. Pop-up stores quickly gained popularity for creating a sense of urgency and exclusivity among consumers, appealing to their desire for novel experiences

and unique offerings.

This retail format has a long history, dating back centuries to the earliest known travelling merchants, but has gained significant traction in the early 2000s as retailers and brand manufacturers incorporated temporary locations into their omni-channel strategies. The Japanese fashion label Comme des Garçons, with founder Rei Kawakubo, notably launched the first pop-up store in Berlin in 2004, drawing crowds with normal retail-priced items and creating a sense of urgency that remains influential in shoppers today.

In essence, the history of pop-up stores underscores the power of creativity and innovation in retail, demonstrating how temporary installations can leave a lasting impression on consumers and reshape brand engagement strategies.

The adoption of pop-up stores by luxury brands

Luxury brands are increasingly drawn to the allure of popup stores as a strategic avenue to captivate consumers, craft immersive brand encounters, and ignite fervour around their offerings. This pivot towards pop-ups represents a departure from the traditional confines of brick-and-mortar retail, affording luxury labels a dynamic platform to innovate, collaborate, and curate bespoke experiences.

One of the paramount reasons luxury brands embrace pop-up stores is the unparalleled opportunity they provide to extend their reach and cultivate distinctive connections with consumers. By eschewing the permanence of traditional stores, pop-ups enable luxury brands to transcend geographical constraints and engage with diverse demographics in unique settings. These ephemeral spaces offer a canvas for luxury brands to narrate their story, infusing tangible embodiment into the essence of their brand identity. Through meticulously crafted environments, luxury pop-ups can evoke a sense of exclusivity and allure,

inviting consumers to immerse themselves in the brand’s narrative and ethos.

Furthermore, pop-up stores afford luxury brands the liberty to unleash their creative prowess and orchestrate temporary manifestations of their values and heritage. From avant-garde installations to collaborative showcases with renowned artists or designers, pop-ups empower luxury brands to express their distinctiveness in captivating and unconventional ways. By leveraging the transient nature of pop-ups, luxury labels can craft ephemeral statements that resonate deeply with consumers, leaving a lasting impression and amplifying brand desirability.

The inherent buzz and anticipation surrounding pop-up stores further contribute to their appeal for luxury brands. The limited-time nature of these installations fosters a sense of urgency and exclusivity, prompting consumers to seek out these fleeting experiences and indulge in the allure of the brand. In an era where luxury consumers crave

more than just material possessions, pop-up stores provide a conduit for brands to forge meaningful connections and foster a sense of belonging among their discerning clientele. By immersing consumers in curated environments and fostering authentic interactions, luxury pop-ups cater to the desire for participation in a larger narrative, elevating the brand experience beyond mere transactional exchanges. In essence, the embrace of pop-up stores by luxury brands

Luxury pop-up stores; great storytellers

Luxury brands have elevated the art of storytelling to new heights through the medium of pop-up stores, leveraging these ephemeral spaces to craft immersive narratives that resonate deeply with consumers. Unlike conventional flagship stores, pop-up stores offer luxury brands a dynamic platform to reinterpret their stories in fresh and unconventional ways, fostering a deeper connection with their audience.

signifies a paradigm shift towards experiential retail, where the ephemeral and the exclusive converge to redefine the boundaries of brand engagement. As consumers seek meaningful connections and authentic encounters, luxury pop-ups emerge as a potent instrument for brands to craft compelling narratives, foster emotional resonance, and cultivate enduring loyalty in an ever-evolving marketplace.

One of the primary ways luxury brands utilise pop-up stores to tell their stories is by providing customers access to spaces that serve as immersive storytelling environments. These temporary installations are meticulously designed to transport visitors into the brand’s world, offering a sensory journey that transcends the confines of traditional retail settings. Through carefully curated aesthetics, ambience, and design elements, luxury pop-up stores immerse

customers in narratives that unfold seamlessly, inviting them to explore, engage, and connect with the brand on a visceral level.

Moreover, luxury brands harness the interactive nature of pop-up stores to foster deeper engagement with their storytelling. By incorporating elements of interactivity, such as experiential installations, augmented reality experiences, or interactive displays, brands empower customers to actively participate in the narrative, forging meaningful connections and enhancing brand affinity. Whether through hands-on activities, digital storytelling platforms, or personalised experiences, pop-up stores create opportunities for customers to co-create the brand story, transforming passive observers into active participants in the storytelling process.

Furthermore, pop-up stores offer luxury brands the flexibility to spotlight specific collections or themes, allowing them to distill their narratives into focused and impactful storytelling experiences. Rather than overwhelming customers with an exhaustive array of products, pop-up stores enable brands to curate a cohesive and compelling storyline around a single collection, highlighting its inspiration, craftsmanship, and significance.

This focused storytelling approach not only enhances the clarity and resonance of the brand message but also creates a sense of exclusivity and anticipation among consumers, driving interest and demand for the featured collection.

For example, a luxury fashion brand might use a popup store to unveil a limited-edition capsule collection, immersing customers in the narrative of its creation through curated displays, behind-the-scenes insights, and interactive experiences. By distilling the essence of the collection into a singular storytelling experience, the brand can evoke emotion, spark curiosity, and cultivate a deeper connection with its audience, fostering loyalty and brand advocacy.

Luxury brands leverage pop-up stores as dynamic storytelling platforms to engage, inspire, and captivate their audience in ways that transcend traditional retail conventions. By harnessing the power of immersive experiences, interactive engagement, and focused storytelling, luxury pop-up stores create lasting impressions that resonate with consumers long after the temporary installation has ended.

Some examples of premium and luxury brands that adopted pop-up stores.

Many examples demonstrate how luxury brands leverage pop-up stores as dynamic platforms to engage with consumers, showcase their creativity, and elevate their brand image in innovative and compelling ways. By pushing the boundaries of traditional retail and embracing experiential marketing, luxury brands can create memorable brand experiences that resonate with consumers and leave a lasting impression.

1. Chanel’s Coco Game Center: Chanel introduced a traveling pop-up concept known as the “Chanel Coco Game Center”, where select locations were transformed into interactive gaming arcades. This immersive experience offered visitors a playful journey into the world of Chanel while promoting the brand’s latest collections. By blending elements of entertainment with fashion, Chanel reimagined the traditional retail experience, enticing consumers to engage with the brand in a novel and exciting manner.

2. Louis Vuitton’s Objets Nomades:

Louis Vuitton launched the “Objets Nomades” pop-up series, showcasing the brand’s collaboration with renowned designers and featuring limited-edition furniture and home decor pieces. This initiative highlighted a different facet of the luxury brand, demonstrating its mastery beyond just luxurious bags. By curating exclusive collections in pop-up stores around the world, Louis Vuitton invited consumers to explore its design heritage and craftsmanship in a new context, further enhancing the brand’s prestige and desirability.

3. Jacquemus’ Innovative Installations:

Jacquemus captivated audiences with numerous innovative and playful installations, featuring larger-than-

life everyday equipment such as washing machines and toasters. These whimsical displays not only showcased the brand’s creative vision and sense of humour but also provided an immersive and Instagram-worthy experience for visitors. By pushing the boundaries of traditional retail environments, Jacquemus redefined the concept of luxury and encouraged consumers to engage with the brand in unexpected and memorable ways.

4. Fendi Peekaboo Bar: Fendi celebrated its iconic Peekaboo handbag with the “Peekaboo Bar”, a series of playful and interactive installations. Visitors had the opportunity to customise their own Peekaboo handbags, participate in creative workshops, and enjoy a variety of beverages. This immersive experience not only highlighted the craftsmanship and versatility of the Peekaboo handbag but also fostered a sense of personal connection and engagement with the brand. By inviting consumers to interact with its products in a fun and interactive setting, Fendi reinforced its status as a luxury brand synonymous with creativity and innovation.

5. Dior’s Lady Art: Dior launched “Lady Art”, a pop-up series that celebrated the iconic Lady Dior handbag through artistic collaborations with renowned contemporary artists. Each pop-up showcased limitededition versions of the handbag, reimagined by artists such as KAWS, Daniel Arsham, and Lee Bul. By merging fashion with art, Dior elevated the Lady Dior handbag to a symbol of artistic expression and cultural relevance, appealing to a diverse audience of fashion enthusiasts and art aficionados alike. Through these collaborative initiatives, Dior reinforced its legacy as a pioneering luxury brand at the intersection of fashion and art.

INSPIRING EXHIBITORS

CREATIVE NETWORK

WORKSHOPS + CONFERENCES

POPAI ZONE

What’s in store for luxury pop-ups?

The future landscape of luxury branding is ripe with opportunities for innovation and evolution, particularly in the realm of pop-up stores. As luxury brands strive to stay ahead of the curve and captivate the increasingly discerning consumer base, several trends and concepts are poised to shape the next chapter of luxury pop-up experiences:

1. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Integration: Expect to see a surge in the integration of AR and VR technologies into luxury popup stores, offering consumers immersive and interactive experiences that blur the lines between the physical and digital realms. From virtual try-on experiences for apparel and accessories to AR-powered storytelling and product showcases, luxury brands will leverage these technologies to engage consumers in captivating and personalised ways. Imagine stepping into a pop-up store and being transported to a virtual runway show or having the ability to visualise how a piece of furniture would look in your home through AR overlays.

2. Interactive Product Experiences: Moving beyond traditional display setups, luxury brands will increasingly focus on creating pop-up concepts where consumers can directly interact with the products in innovative and engaging ways. This could entail interactive workshops where customers can participate in the creation process, personalised styling sessions guided by AI-powered fashion assistants, or even immersive product demonstrations that showcase the craftsmanship and heritage behind each item. By fostering hands-on interactions and experiential learning, luxury brands can deepen consumer engagement and foster a sense of ownership and connection with their products.

3. Sustainability Initiatives: With sustainability becoming a core value for many consumers, luxury brands will incorporate eco-conscious practices into their popup concepts, from sustainable materials and production processes to carbon-neutral installations and zero-waste initiatives. Pop-up stores may serve as platforms for brands to educate consumers about their sustainability efforts,

showcase eco-friendly products and collaborations, and encourage conscious consumption habits. By aligning with sustainability values, luxury brands can not only attract environmentally conscious consumers but also demonstrate their commitment to responsible business practices.

4. Collaborative Partnerships: Expect to see an increase in collaborative partnerships between luxury brands and other industries or creatives, resulting in unique and multifaceted pop-up experiences. Whether collaborating with artists, designers, tech companies, or cultural institutions, luxury brands can leverage these partnerships to infuse their pop-up stores with fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and cross-disciplinary creativity. Collaborative pop-ups could range from art installations and live performances to exclusive product launches and limited-edition collections, offering consumers a diverse array of cultural and artistic experiences.

5. Personalised Exclusivity: As luxury consumers increasingly seek personalised and exclusive experiences, pop-up stores will evolve to cater to individual preferences and tastes. From VIP previews and private shopping appointments to customised product offerings and personalised concierge services, luxury brands will leverage data analytics and artificial intelligence to tailor the popup experience to each consumer’s unique profile and preferences. By offering personalised exclusivity, luxury brands can deepen customer loyalty and enhance the sense of luxury and prestige associated with their brand.

To conclude, the future of pop-up stores in luxury branding holds immense potential for creativity, innovation, and consumer engagement. By embracing emerging technologies, sustainability initiatives, collaborative partnerships, and personalised experiences, luxury brands can continue to push the boundaries of traditional retail and create compelling brand experiences that resonate with consumers on a deeper level.

Luxury brands leverage pop-up stores as dynamic storytelling platforms to engage, inspire, and captivate their audience in ways that transcend traditional retail conventions.

Photo Credit: SLVHCS ‘Project Legacy’, New Orleans, USA

© Sean Airhart/NBBJ

UTILISING SURFACES FOR INNOVATIVE INTERACTION

By Rob Fletcher

Shopping is so much more than simply purchasing products; it is about the experience as a whole. Here, Retail Focus focuses on forming a closer connection with customers to ensure repeat business and how retailers can utilise surfaces to interact with shoppers.

In today’s modern, fast-paced world, it is no longer enough for retailers to simply expect consumers to walk in off the high street and begin spending money. Stores need to have some sort of appeal to draw in passers-by and offer them a memorable shopping experience that will leave them wanting more.

We see plenty examples of innovation in every issue of Retail Focus, with retailers around the world coming up with many clever ways of making their stores more attractive to the consumer. One of the most common methods is making use of surfaces; areas that were previously not utilised and were rather bland are now serving as interaction hot spots to improve the overall experience of shopping.

Customers give us feedback on how easy it is for them to find their way around our store on their own without an advisor

Be it installing QR codes for shoppers to scan and access more content or making use of integrated digital screens for consumers to use while browsing the store, surfaces offer all manner of opportunities when it comes to interaction. Here, Retail Focus picks out some of the best examples of surface interaction within the retail market.

Digital journey

Kicking off with digital technologies and MeinBodenbelag, a 160-year-old floor covering retailer in Germany, has enhanced its showroom experience by implementing a digital signage network powered by the nsign.tv software platform.

The system includes 20 displays, ranging from 55” to 98”, strategically placed throughout the store, providing customers with what it described as an “engaging experience”, contributing to extended visitor stays.

Screens were placed on surfaces that were previously unused, with each display interacting with customers while they are in store, offering more insight into the company’s products. Content includes daily price promotions, details of MeinBodenbelag’s social media channels, introductions to staff, directional signage, cool videos for relaxing in the customer lounge and even cartoons in a designated corner

for children.

Toni Grimmeisen, managing director of MeinBodenbelag, said the response from customers has been exceptionally positive. Many have praised the refreshed, modern appearance of the showroom, as well as the ease of navigating the space independently.

“Customers give us feedback on how easy it is for them to find their way around our store on their own without an advisor,” Grimmeisen said. “Since we also open the showroom every Sunday, without staff, the displays are used even more to obtain information and place orders. This encourages people to spend longer in the store.

“We are extremely satisfied with the nsign.tv platform. It’s super easy to use, it runs stably, and you don’t need much previous knowledge. The program is practically self-explanatory, and if you still don’t get to grips with it,

the support from nsign.tv and (IT integrator) Kutzschbach is outstanding.

New solutions

As demonstrated by MeinBodenbelag, interaction does not necessarily require consumers to actually touch surfaces; digital technology can connect them with the brand through the sole use of content.

At the recent ISE 2024 digital tech event in Barcelona, PPDS, the exclusive global provider of Philips professional displays, launched the new Philips Unite LED All In One Series of screens for use in retail environments. Comprising the 4000, 4200, 5000 and 7000 Series, the screens are suitable for customers looking to replace smaller LCD displays and existing videowalls, or introduce new solutions, with 4K and 8K seamless displays.

Each model is available in sizes ranging from 110” – 165” at resolutions full high definition, 4K and 8K, offering solutions

“The biggest strength, however, is that you can play different videos on the displays so quickly and easily. And it does so on time and completely automatically. This saves us a huge amount of time and allows us to concentrate completely on everyday business.”

for both permanent and semi-permanent installations in retail settings.

PPDS said the new screens also offer sustainable benefits. Using fewer pixels, the four-in-one mini-LED technology within the 4000 Series delivers a significant reduction in energy consumption compared to other LED offerings in the market, Meanwhile, the Philips Unite 5000 Series benefits from dynamic and black screen power saving, with the ability to automatically and intelligently power down when not in use.

Jeroen Brants, global product director for Philips LED displays at PPDS, said: “There are many all-in-one LED solutions in the market today, each with their own pros and cons. When we enter any market, it is at a time when

The new Philips Unite LED All In One Series comprises the 4000, 4200, 5000 and 7000 models

The captivating displays they created provided an immersive brand experience, generating a tremendous amount of excitement and significantly increasing brand recognition

we can bring products that our customers truly need, innovating around their requirements, rather than simply following what has been done before. That’s how the Philips Unite LED AIO range was born.

“This launch marks the culmination of many months of research, hard work, and commitment from our teams

Golden ticket

Of course, it is not all about digital; printed media also offers retailers the opportunity to interact with consumers, and vice versa. Drytac products are used by print companies all over the world for use in retail-focused projects, aimed at drawing the interests of passers-by.

For the recent release of the new ‘Wonka’ film, Ontariobased print business Global Printing Enterprises (GPE) used several products from Drytac to produce an immersive display to help promote the movie. ‘Wonka’s Sweet Escape’

to design and develop a complete AIO offering. The Philips Unite 4000, 4200, 5000, and 7000 LED Series bring outstanding new opportunities, whether for permanent, semi-permanent or temporary installations that demand to be seen.”

at Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto offered visitors the chance to walk around inside Wonka’s candy shop and take advantage of photo opportunities.

Working with Reignite Marketing, GPE carried out all printing and installation for the project, which included a series of wall murals, displays, backdrops and floor graphics, making use of surfaces below and around the special area. Highlights included a vibrant carpet floor graphic measuring 32ft x 70ft, plus a cobblestone path adorned

MeinBodenbelag in Germany has installed 20 digital displays at locations throughout its showroom

UTILISING SURFACES FOR INNOVATIVE INTERACTION

with a 35ft tall cherry blossom tree.

For the project, GPE used Polar Grip Air, a white polymeric self-adhesive vinyl with air release technology, and Polar Premium Air, a self-adhesive vinyl also with air egress technology. Additionally, GPE used ReTac Smooth 150 polymeric PVC film and FloorTac, a matte white polymeric PVC film, paired with Interlam Pro Emerytex.

Dennis Leblanc, senior business development manager for North America at Drytac, was full of praise for the project.

Game, set and match

Also in Canada and another Drytac customer, Print Three Calgary, worked with the Calgary National Bank Challenger professional tennis event and the Core Shopping Centre to create some clever floor graphics.

Print Three Calgary has worked with the event on several occasions, including in 2022 when it produced a range of colourful floor graphics. Organisers, partnering with event sponsor Holt Renfrew, contacted the printing specialist again for the 2023 competition, requesting another set of floor graphics for a promotional event at the nearby Core Shopping Centre.

The idea was to create a temporary, indoor tennis court at the mall where shoppers could take part in tennis challenges to win free tickets to the Calgary National Bank Challenger and other prizes.

He said: “Reignite Marketing achieved remarkable success by teaming up with GPE to execute an experiential marketing campaign that surpassed all expectations.

“The captivating displays they created provided an immersive brand experience, generating a tremendous amount of excitement and significantly increasing brand recognition. As a result, foot traffic to Yorkdale Mall skyrocketed, leading to a substantial surge in movie ticket sales.”

Print Three Calgary used Drytac SpotOn Floor 200 for the job, producing 18 panels in total and piecing them together to create an eye-catching application measuring 11m x 8m.

Be it digital, print or another form of technology, there are plenty of ways for retailers to interact with customers using new or existing surfaces. Connection is key in what is a very competitive market and improving the overall shopping experience with interaction will go a long way to creating loyal and returning customers.

Left: Print Three Calgary produced tennis court floor graphics to promote the Calgary National Bank Challenger Right: Global Printing Enterprises used Drytac products to produce an immersive display to help promote new Hollywood film ‘Wonka’

ISE 2024 BREAKS ALL RECORDS AT ANNIVERSARY SHOW

The latest edition of the world’s leading audiovisual and systems integration exhibition delivered on all fronts and proved to be “Your Destination for Innovation”

BARCELONA, 2 February 2024: Integrated Systems Europe 2024 was the most successful edition in its 20-year history. Taking place at the Fira de Barcelona Gran Via venue the show attracted 73,891 unique verified attendees from 162 countries, a record since the show’s inception in Geneva in 2004. This represents an increase of 27% on the 2023 edition.

On the Wednesday (31 January) the show had 51,617 visitors, the highest number ever in a single day beating the previous record by almost 22%.

The total number of registrations reached 95,396 with 172,627 visits across the four days. Attendee numbers for the Friday were at 24,528, a record for the show since it went to a four-day event.

Alongside record-breaking occupation in the city’s hotels, bars, and entertainment venues, exhibitors reported unparalleled footfall on booths across the largest ever ISE show.

The exhibition showcased its highest number of exhibitors

with (1,408) and the largest show floor space (82,000 sqm net).

ISE 2024 was a testament to the innovation of the proAV and systems integration community. Exhibitors from around the globe presented state-of-the-art solutions, ranging from advanced display technologies and immersive audio systems to smart automation and collaborative communication tools. The diverse array of products and services reflected the industry’s commitment to pushing boundaries and enhancing user experiences.

Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events commented: “In the illustrious 20-year journey of ISE, we have witnessed the transformative power of innovation and collaboration within our community. ISE 2024 not only reflects the cutting-edge technologies defining our industry but also serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and camaraderie. As we celebrate this milestone, alongside our co-owners AVIXA and CEDIA we look forward to continuing our commitment to being a global platform for industry professionals.”

The educational component of ISE 2024 was exceptional. The conference sessions, workshops, and keynote presentations from multi-Academy Award-winning director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, and leading digital artists Jeroen van der Most and Sofia Crespo were curated to provide valuable insights into emerging trends, market dynamics, and technological breakthroughs. Renowned speakers in the conferences and on the show floor stages shared their expertise on topics such as artificial intelligence in AV, sustainable design, and the future of remote collaboration. Attendees had the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and gain actionable knowledge to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving industry.

The celebration of ISE’s 20th anniversary added a special touch to the event. Commemorative events, retrospective installations such as the ISE Time Tunnel and Vintage Audio Museum, and acknowledgments of industry pioneers highlighted the incredible journey of ISE. This not only created a sense of nostalgia but also underscored the industry’s resilience and adaptability in the face of technological evolution.

ISE returns to Barcelona 4 - 7 February 2025

SHOPLIGHT TACKLES THE THROW AWAY CULTURE IN RETAIL LIGHTING

Retail is fast paced. Trends evolve rapidly, seasons swiftly come and go, and the perpetual push to create and satisfy demand is the norm. The practicalities of the retail sector means that lighting fixtures are often removed at speed as retailers regularly refurbish stores and exit premises as leases expire. Contractors must get in and out quickly. Afterall, no retailer wants its doors closed for longer than is absolutely necessary.

These factors, together with the industries focus on low cost imported lighting from the Far East, has resulted in approximately 19 million LED, solar and decorative lights in UK landfill in 2023. *

The environmental impact of this level of landfill is shocking. And that’s without accounting for the aluminium

in traditional retail lighting which has links to deforestation, erosion, and environmental contamination including sky high carbon emissions.

So, what needs to change? How can we stop or at least minimise this throw away culture?

Modular design keeps lighting in use for longer

The first step is to embrace a modular design approach which aligns with the Right to Repair movement. Key components are designed to be easily accessible so they can be repaired, upgraded or replaced as needed. Traditionally a faulty light was binned and quickly replaced with a brand-new version. But, thanks to a modular design

approach, parts like chips, lamp-holders, track adaptors, heat sinks, internal screws, and wiring are accessible so a retail light can be in use for significantly longer. Additionally, key components can be re-used multiple times.

The servicing and buyback scheme that enables true circularity

The benefits of a modular design approach can only be achieved with a supporting circular system. That’s why Shoplight launched Circu-light which includes a service plan and buy back scheme.

Backed by a 5-year parts and labour warranty, Shoplight guarantees comprehensive coverage for any component breakdown. Remember these components can be easily fixed or replaced without the need to throw out the entire light fitting because of a modular design approach. However, whilst the warranty ensures any failed fittings are repaired, it doesn’t always mean that the lighting scheme continues to perform at its most efficient. That’s why the Shoplight service plan includes annual maintenance, component repair or replacement, a hygiene refresh and an LED COB upgrade.

Circu-light includes a buy-back scheme that enables true circularity in retail lighting. A standout feature of its

bio-polymer lighting range is their buy-back value that encourages its reuse and recycling. This offers a compelling reason for retailers to upgrade their lighting systems responsibly and recycle them knowing nothing will go to waste, whilst enjoying the benefits of credit towards their next investment when replacing or upgrading their lights.

And what does Shoplight do with these returned products? They have invested in technology and machinery that allow them to shred bio-polymer parts and reform them into brand new products.

By embedding a modularity into their product design and supporting retailers with a service plan and buy back scheme, Shoplight are actively changing how things have always been done, significantly reducing landfill waste and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in sustainable retail lighting.

* Reported in Recolight following a study by Material Focus

Sustainability meets affordability

With 72% reusable and recyclable components, NORT GS reduces waste and supports circular economy principles.

• Sleek compact modular design

• Superior high-efficiency LED’s

• Switchable light outputs

• On/off, Casambi and DALI variants

• 3D printed in the UK which reduces carbon transportation by up to 25%

• Part of Circu-Light which offers scrappage, servicing, buy-back, plus reuse and recycling

• Price comparable to an imported aluminium spotlight

For enquiries please quote NORT-GS-RF and email hello@shoplight.lighting

DOROTAPE

Dorotape has expanded its range of sustainable media with the introduction of five new products made using up to 120 recycled 1.5L PET bottles and coated with a water-based adhesive.

The range includes both printable films with matching laminate as well as a polished silver and gold finish are suitable for both internal and external use with an outdoor durability of up to 3 years on to smooth, flat surfaces.

All films are from leading European manufacturer ASLAN and Dorotape are proud to have been awarded Gold Distributor status for this range in the UK.

www.dorotape.co.uk

STYLE PARTITIONS

Recognising the benefits of adaptable space, the retail sector has seen an increase in demand for moveable wall systems that allow the reconfiguration of a shop floor layout, or in a shopping centre, as a glass divide that can be opened out during the day.

With such systems becoming integral to the smooth running of the retail outlet, emphasis must be placed on the maintenance and service of such systems, minimising the risk of unscheduled downtime, or a degradation of fire safety performance.

“With technological advances, moveable wall systems have become more complex,” comments Katie Mitchell, southern service and repair manager at leading partitioning specialist, Style.

“It is vital to have your partitioning wall regularly serviced and maintained by a professional with the necessary credentials to carry out a safe and thorough job.”

Appropriate engineer competence might include CITB approved in-house training, an NVQ Level Two Operable

Wall Installer certificate and training for access equipment, such as PASMA and IPAF. For fully and semi automatic systems, engineers must have certified manufacturer training, with fault detection software and hardware available.

Style is the only UK nationwide breakdown and repair service for all types and makes of acoustic moveable walls. For continuity of care, all engineers are directly employed and have been trained in health and safety, asbestos awareness, risk assessment and PASMA, and are CHAS and ConstructionLine accredited.

“Aiming to minimise cost and disruption, we always try to repair an existing system wherever possible, replacing individual parts or even re-fashioning worn components on occasions,” concludes Katie. “A well-maintained moveable wall can operate safely and efficiently for 25 years plus and key to that is a good relationship with a reputable servicing partner.”

www.style-partitions.co.uk

CLEANING UP RETAIL WITH BIOPOLYMER LIGHTING

Nearly one year since the launch of NORT, Shoplight has launched its third product in a growing biopolymer lighting range which now includes NORT, NORT GS and Colt Bio.

This biopolymer range of lighting doesn’t just light up your retail spaces – NORT, NORT GS and Colt bio cut down energy usage, reduce production and transport emissions and minimise landfill waste. Paving the way towards a sustainable future, all three products are supported by Circu-light, Shoplight’s four-step circular scheme which includes scrappage, servicing, re-use and recycling, and a buy-back scheme, all designed to encourage more sustainable practices in retail lighting.

Nort, NORT GS and Colt Bio are 3D printed and assembled here in the UK. 3D printing is waste-free and dramatically reduces production carbon emissions and carbon miles from shipping (typically from East Asia). Employing a

GreenTEC Pro

• Made from 100% renewable raw materials

• Biodegradable

• Free of silicone

• Industrially compostable

NonOilen

• 100% bio-based - it starts from the soil and ends in the soil making it a true circular product. Plants used to make it consume greenhouse gas emissions compared to standard plastic which is made from petrol-based polymers which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions

• 100% biodegradable with industrial composting, emitting only water and carbon dioxide with nutrients

modular design approach means components can be upgraded or replaced with ease, enabling the latest and most energy-efficient components to be used.

All products in the biopolymer range are made from renewable, recyclable, and reusable biopolymer materials, Green Tech Pro and Non Oilen. Both offer excellent mechanical and thermal stress resistance qualities, high levels of impact resistance and high optical quality.

These materials, coupled with its modular design mean biopolymer products can be upgraded easily so NORT, NORT GS and Colt Bio can be left in use for many years and only recycled at the very end of their working life.

• RoHS, REACH and FDA compliant, meaning materials are free from many toxic chemicals

• Available in 7 colours including black, white, and graphite

that can be returned to the soil

• Retains its mechanical properties after being reused up to 12 times so at the end of a lifecycle in-store, it can be returned for 100% recycling and reuse

• Available in Silk colour

NORT

With 86% reusable and recyclable components NORT is a track mounted adjustable spotlight complete with increased efficiency COB LED module, reflector and integral electronic driver. It is a fully upgradeable, circular economy spotlight.

NORT GS

With 72% reusable and recyclable components, NORT GS reduces waste and supports circular economy principles. It offers:

• A sleek compact modular design

• Superior high-efficiency LED’s

• Switchable light outputs

Colt Bio

With 71% reusable and recyclable components, Colt Bio is a recessed lighting option available in outputs up to 27w. 3D printing allows for the outer bezel to be produced to any diameter up to 300mm, so it is a perfect solution to retrofit

Patent Pending VenTEC ® technology increases cooling across key biopolymer lighting components. Heat is directed away from the LED and driver, allowing them to run at a lower temperature which also increases the life span and overall efficiency of Nort.

• On/off, Casambi and DALI variants

• 3D printed in the UK which reduces carbon transportation by up to 25%

• Part of Circu-Light which offers scrappage, servicing, buy-back, plus re-use and recycling

• A price comparable to an imported aluminium spotlight

into existing ceiling holes.

Overall, NORT, NORT GS and Colt Bio reflect Shoplight’s journey towards creating zero carbon products that have little or no negative impact on the environment.

For more information on this innovative biopolymer range contact Shoplight https://shoplight.lighting/ hello@shoplight.lighting

Matt Carrington, Sales Director,

• +44 (0)1733 345265 or +44 (0) 7921 823725

• matt.carrington@shoplight.lighting

2024 RETAIL PREDICITIONS

Can independent retailers drive a high street resurgence in 2024?

After a bruising year for retail, there are finally some reasons for optimism going into 2024.

The holiday season appears to be delivering to expectations. The freeze on business rates has put real cash in retailers’ pockets. And while I hear from our retailers some nervousness about the continued impact of our struggling economy on discretionary spending, the deceleration of inflation should at least prevent customers from tightening the purse strings even further.

So what does this mean for the UK high street in the year ahead? Well, here are four trends that show how independent retailers can seize the initiative and drive a much-needed town centre resurgence.

Firstly, with prices high and household finances stretched, retailers need to provide high quality and unique/exclusive products that resonate with customers’ values to get reluctant shoppers reaching for their wallets. Independent retail is in the ideal position to deliver this type of distinct and values-driven proposition. Indeed, ‘Not on Amazon’ is the most popular filter on our wholesale marketplace, demonstrating that independents have already got the memo.

Secondly, shoppers are very much social animals who want to touch and feel things, form connections and be entertained. Many of the sad and notable losses on the high street, like Wilko, have been the result of big businesses losing sight of the customer. By contrast, independents can command the ‘real person premium’. Educational or local content and events; handwritten notes; a real person picking up the phone - these are all things that the big boys can’t do nearly as well and where small businesses can lean in next year.

Thirdly, the line between brands and retailers is blurring. We’re seeing local businesses trying to capitalise on their existing customer loyalty – and grow their awareness –by selling their own branded merchandise. At the same time, we’re seeing venues such as pubs, cafes and salons converting physical space to sell products that they know will resonate with their patrons. In 2024, this will make for a more compelling high street experience, with every venue giving shoppers a reason to step inside.

Fourthly, while AI can seem like the most buzzy buzzword, I hope that it becomes a secret weapon for independent retailers in 2024. I have already seen some of our retailers using AI to save time, grow their sales and get creative in extraordinary ways. Chat GPT can be used to write customer emails, recommend merchandising, design marketing strategies and reword product listings… the list goes on. And many of the tools that independent retailers were already using are being sprinkled with AI magicShopify Magic and Canva Magic Design are our retailers’ current favourites.

Finally, through the work of Totally Locally and other grassroots movements, we’re seeing some great examples of independent retailers working together to benefit their communities. This type of communication collaboration presents a huge opportunity in the year ahead. Remember – when you add up the long tail of independent retail revenue, it’s bigger than Amazon!

There truly is a power in a collective mindset for small businesses. Retailers need to put aside the ‘shop wars’ mentality that can creep in when times are hard, and discover new ways of working together, to address the issue of empty shops in our gap-tooth high streets, and bring shoppers back to our town centres.

-

Charlotte

Broadbent - General Manager in the UK for Faire

EUROPE’S

GREATEST AND MOST SENIOR RETAIL SHOW

“Oh my god you definitely need an event like Shoptalk Europe”

“Shoptalk Europe is an amazing way to connect so many elements of the retail ecosystem” “It’s a great opportunity to meet all our retailers across the continent”

“The industry needs events like Shoptalk Europe because it’s good for everybody to get together.”

FIND OUT MORE AT SHOPTALKEUROPE.COM

Chief Digital Officer e.l.f Beauty

EKTA CHOPRA

Group President FARFETCH

STEPHANIE PHAIR President, Europe

DIAGEO

SORAYA BENCHIKH Co-Founder & CEO OCADO

TIM STEINER OBE

Infinity and beyond

Get ready to add some dimension to your signage game!

We can create epic infinity letters, o ering options for both block out or translucent finishes and a wide array of LED colours, these are true statement pieces! With swift turnaround times and sizes ranging from 100mm to 600mm, we're here to take letters to the next level!