Retail Focus July 2016 by Retail Focus

July 2016 £4.00

In the can ’s London pop-u

Shopfitting & design

VM Focus

Beauty retail

supplement inside!

Menswear market

Inside Bottletop

July 2016/issue 77 A man’s world : Project Focus on Bottletop: Tate Modern: Sirin Labs : VM Focus Supplement : Beauty retail : Shopfitting & design : Focus on Lighting : Q&A with Zia Zareem-Slade, Fortnum & Mason

www.retail-focus.co.uk

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24-25

Features Regulars In the can

British ethical fashion brand Bottletop opened a temporary store on London’s Regent Street in April with an interior design that truly reflects its collections and values.

32 A man’s world

62 Shopfitting & design

Leader Diary

11-14 News

17-18 Window shopping Inspiring window displays from around the globe.

20 23

Top of the POPS Karl McKeever This month, Karl explores the markets of Marrakech and explains why there are still lessons to be learned in the UK.

Focus 35 VM supplement

face of 57 Changing beauty retail

24-31 Project Focus

Bottletop : Tate Modern : SIRIN LABS

Opinion

Craig Phillipson, founder and managing director of Shopworks, explains how category management can help customers and retailers enjoy a smoother journey.

Focus on: Lighting

Q&A

Zia Zareem-Slade, customer experience director at Fortnum & Mason, talks challenges, collaborations and what’s in the pipeline for Christmas.

64-67 Products Products and services for the retail industry.

www.retail-focus.co.uk

12. 13. 14 SEPT 2016 PARIS EXPO PORTE DE VERSAILLES

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This unique “brick and click” concept showcases all the aspects of today’s retail and encompasses the entire value chain: big data, omnichannel CRM, mobile interactions, indoor geolocation, new distribution models etc. PARIS RETAIL WEEK will also host special side events: Awards, store tours, partners’ events, a networking evening… and so much more!

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July ‘16 Technology is changing the face of beauty retail. As with other sectors, it is bridging the gap between online and in-store to create seamless and personalised experiences that today’s customers have grown to expect. Just last month, we looked at how Sephora’s new store concept in the US is fusing hands-on service and technology to deliver a new experience that teaches and inspires, while allowing customers to play with beauty. Charlotte Tilbury, NARS and Burberry, to name just three, have also taken a technology-first approach with their stores in London’s Covent Garden. This month, Lyndsey Dennis explores how beauty stores have shifted from static brand advice counters to social hubs (pages 57-58). In June, as the ninth instalment of London Collections: Men kicked off, market research firm Mintel released figures showing that the menswear market is growing at a faster rate than womenswear, reaching £14.1 billion in 2015 (up from £11.4 billion in 2010). It therefore makes sense that more and more retailers are expanding their menswear lines and opening standalone menswear stores. In this issue, we look at how stores are adapting to men’s changing shopping habits (pages 32-33). You can also find out what’s happening in the world of visual merchandising and display with our special VM Focus supplement (pages 35-54). And don’t miss our Q&A with Fortnum & Mason’s customer experience director, Zia Zareem-Slade, where she talks challenges, collaborations and Christmas (page 74). Happy reading!

Gemma Balmford Editor

Managing Editor

Display Sales

Gemma Balmford e. gemma@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)7908 895 906

Lee Cullumbine e. lee@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405

Editor

Production & Web

Lyndsey Dennis e. lyndsey@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)7500 138 810

Terry Clark e. terry@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405

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Retail Focus is published 12 times a year by Retail Focus Promotions Ltd, Yeomans, Bassetts Lane, Woodham Walter, Maldon, Essex, CM9 6RZ.

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. ©Retail Focus Promotions Ltd 2016.

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RIBA Regent Street Windows Project Regent Street, London 5-25 September 2016 Now in its seventh year, the RIBA Regent Street Windows Project pairs RIBA architects with Regent Street retailers to create captivating architectural installations in store windows along and around London’s historic shopping street. The installations will be on display from 5-25 September to coincide with partner events, London Design Festival and London Fashion Week. This is a unique opportunity for RIBA chartered practices and members to demonstrate the innovative ways in which they work while allowing for a direct interaction with London’s public and visitors on its most iconic retail destination. RIBA

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Europe’s Customer Festival BDC, London 13-14 September 2016

London Design Festival London, Citywide 17-25 September 2016

Surface & Materials Show NEC Birmingham 18-20 October 2016

With a re-modelled agenda, Europe’s Customer Festival will focus on every aspect of the customer journey from start to finish. Visitors can take advantage of various speaker sessions and four dedicated tracks, focusing on: loyalty, experience, analytics and digital. Speakers include M&S and Argos.

The annual London Design Festival celebrates and promotes London as the design capital of the world and as the gateway to the international creative community. The Festival programme is made up of more than 400 events and exhibitions staged by hundreds of partner organisations, including 100% Design on 21-24 September 2016.

The Surface & Materials Show presents a vital opportunity to keep up to date with all the functional and aesthetic advantages of today’s products. Whether actively specifying for floors, walls, work surfaces or ceilings, or looking for fresh ideas, the Surface & Materials Show is the ideal location for surfacing inspiration.

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news

Dover Street Market reopens following AW16 seasonal takeover Dover Street Market has reopened following its seasonal changeover, with brand new AW16 collections from all Comme des Garçons brands as well as various other new feature areas. New spaces include an installation by Comme des Garçons on the ground floor, a space by Daniela Gregis on the third floor and an area for Kiko Kostadinov in Basement 22 Haymarket – Brioni Shop. A mix of DSM specials have also taken up residency, including Comme des Garçons x Burberry trench coats, DSM Vintage Cartoon T-Shirts, Pleasure v DSM specials, Vetements x DSM specials and Molly Goddard x DSM specials.

British Ceramic Tile opens first standalone showroom

Ceramic and glass tile manufacturer British Ceramic Tile has opened its first standalone showroom in Clerkenwell, London. The company worked alongside Millington Associates on the design, production and installation of the space. Inspired by current trends in gallery settings, Millington created a cuttingedge yet informal space for the ultimate hands-on customer experience, as well as meeting, reception and hospitality areas. A key feature of the space is the brand wall, documenting the company and its history through a graphic design of the brand’s entire timeline taking visitors on ‘the journey of a tile’. Customers can create their own oversized palettes and see their ideas come to life, step by step. A mix of products and digital displays provide a comprehensive overview of the brand’s portfolio. State-of-the-art techniques were used to make the product stand out and demonstrate how tiles have a much wider decorative use than just as wall and floor coverings.

news

MADE.COM opens Paris flagship Online designer furniture retailer MADE.COM has opened a new flagship store in Paris, designed by gpstudio. The idea behind the showroom was to bring MADE.COM’s online experience to life by creating an environment where customers can learn, see and explore what is on offer by working their way through a series of experiential spaces. gpstudio designed a discovery and experiential environment for MADE.COM that offers a new way of shopping and a place to learn more about the designers and the story behind the brand. The window has been designed not only as a visual merchandising display but also an exhibition space, where designers can showcase their work or art installation. Like in other MADE.COM showrooms, once inside customers can pick up a MADE tablet to scan cloud tags on products to make a personal record

Tom Dixon expands USA store portfolio British lighting, furniture and accessories designer Tom Dixon has opened two new locations in the USA, the first in Los Angeles and the second a larger-scale showroom in New York City’s Soho neighbourhood. The stores offer the USA intriguing retail concepts that bring to life the Tom Dixon experience and provide consumers with a new way to interact with the brand. Curve x Tom Dixon Los Angeles is

Mint Velvet arrives at Bluewater

of favourite items as they explore the space. After exploring the window space, consumers can visit the ‘Curated by MADE’ corridor to learn about MADE’s designers. The next stage of the customer journey is the ‘MADE Unboxed’ tunnel,

in which consumers have the chance to interact with miniature 3D-printed MADE furniture models that activate projections of product imagery and video content to help customers refine their search for the perfect piece of furniture.

located in Platform, Culver City’s new 650 sq m indoor-outdoor urban oasis — also designed and illuminated by Tom Dixon — and is the brand’s first physical LA location that fuses fashion, food and furnishing retail. Dixon has fostered a collaboration with multi-city fashion boutique CURVE, founded by Nevena Borissova, alongside real estate developer The Runyon Group, to provide a more engaging and active way of showcasing goods. In New York, Dixon occupies a four-storey building on Howard Street in Soho. The space allows the designer to showcase his latest wares and

innovations in addition to offering spaces for the passing consumer, professional contract and wholesale business, and a basement space for interior designers that is full of material samples, prototypes and decorative items on a consistently rotating schedule. The space is a living representation of the Tom Dixon mission, to manufacture products that are tough enough for the professional market and attractive enough for the home. The raw and unfinished interiors of this temporary showroom provide a fittingly theatrical backdrop for the brand as it highlights futuristic lamps, heavyweight furniture and extraordinary accessories.

Womenswear brand Mint Velvet has opened its first UK standalone store in a non-high street location at Bluewater shopping centre in Kent. Designed by Kinnersley Kent Design, the 204 sq m boutique is modern, tactile and sensory, achieving a fine balance between being a relaxed and glamorous environment. The Bluewater store features Mint Velvet’s signature grey and evolves the design concept by bringing in a lighter, fresher palette and exploring the use of contrast, texture and tone. There are new architectural features and filtering such as frosted glass screens with an elegant blackened steel frame. The store also features a dedicated shoe and accessory area with a separate bag display.

‘This new Bluewater store is key to, and reflective of, our expansion strategy in the UK. The high quality location is fantastic, with significant appeal to our affluent customer base, whilst benefitting from a much wider catchment area,’ says Liz Houghton, co-founder and chief executive of Mint Velvet. Russell Loveland, portfolio director at Land Securities, co-owner and asset manager of Bluewater, says: ‘The opening of Mint Velvet, which will be followed by Michael Kors, LK Bennett and Jigsaw later this summer, is a very strong addition to Bluewater’s premium line-up and reaffirms our position as the first choice location in the South East for leading brands.’

news

Nespresso opens first UK cafe Coffee brand Nespresso has opened its first cafe in the UK on Cheapside in the City of London. The launch is part of a joint venture with premium food caterer DO&CO and follows the success of a pilot Café Nespresso in Vienna in 2015. Designed in-house, the cafe offers customers the opportunity to taste 11 Grand Cru coffees from the Nespresso Business Solutions range, which is designed specifically for the restaurant, hotel and office sector. ‘London has a thriving coffee culture but Café Nespresso is a unique premium café experience,’ says Francisco Nogueira, managing director of Nespresso UK &

Ireland. ‘Café Nespresso will offer 11 distinct blends of coffee, which we source from among the top two per cent of quality coffee grown worldwide. Our Maestros will guide customers to find their perfect drink from a large array of recipes and combinations, creating an entertaining experience for all.’ The cafe features the UK’s first Nespresso automated self-service boutique called the N Cube, where customers can buy the range of 24 Nespresso Grands Crus and Limited Edition coffees. The machine prepares personalised multi-product orders in minutes. ‘Café Nespresso is the latest innovative

experience from Nespresso,’ adds Nogueira. ‘The new Café is designed with our customers in mind and aims to provide a unique and exceptional cafe experience. Combining gourmet cuisine and high quality coffee, Café Nespresso is an experience like no other and one tailored to contemporary living. We take pride in providing our customers with exceptional experiences and new opportunities to enhance their knowledge of coffee and this is what Café Nespresso will do.’ The luxury coffee brand recently introduced a new self-service concept to the UK, in its redesigned boutique in Selfridges London.

NIVEA opens new store in Italy Skincare company NIVEA has opened a store near Rome, in Italy. The space has been designed by Mattheo Thun & Partners, with a focus on the brand’s logo that represents the values and heritage of the brand: purity, simplicity, care and trust. The interior scheme features NIVEA’s blue and white identity, the iconic shape of the logo and different kinds of wood to define the contemporary and timeless store design. By using walnut wood for the flooring and oak for the shelving, the architect created a welcoming atmosphere and takes up another core value of NIVEA — the human touch. A mix of neutral toned backgrounds and natural surfaces allows the product to become the centre point.

Mattheo Thun says: ‘A concept that fully reflects the soul of this iconic brand. The store is just the stage for the products — the product is the hero!’ Modular shelving units offer flexible display possibilites, while closed units make additional storage easily accessible. Versatile wooden furniture elements enrich the store’s merchandising zones and invite customers to relax. An integrated, easily adjustable spotlight system helps highlight the frequently changing areas. The store interior foregoes featuring any advertising instruments, instead showing lifestyle images reflecting NIVEA brand values and conveying the spirit of the location.

news

OMEGA takes over Printemps atrium To mark the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, the atrium of Printemps in Paris has been taken over by OMEGA. As official timekeeper of the games, the brand has made its mark on the Printemps atrium with an exclusive display dedicated to the upcoming 2016 edition. Screens on the walls show videos tracing the famous watchmaker’s 27-year-long involvement in the Olympic Games and a giant screen provides the low down on high performance time keeping. The floor has a sports theme that’s reminiscent of swimming pools and stadium running tracks, and a fun photo booth that allows customers to compare their body shape with that of different athletes. OMEGA experts are running watchmaking workshops and holographic display cases display the latest watch models, and offer a preview of the Rio 2016 limied edition Seamaster models.

West Ham United unveils new Stadium Store West Ham United opened the doors to its official new Stadium Store on Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in June. The new retail space is more than two and a half times the size of its Boleyn Ground equivalent, boasting more than 1,200 product lines and is open seven days a week. The store, which was fit out by Portview, features 44 till points and a dedicated shirt printing area with 12 printing machines, ensuring that supporters can look forward to exceptional service, even at the busiest times. A West Ham United Coffee Co. coffee shop is located downstairs. The new-look store features a personalisation station, allowing supporters to order all of their favourite West Ham merchandise, including mugs, mouse mats, key rings and even mock newspaper clippings with any name they chose — all at the touch of a screen. It is also furnished with giant digital

screens which will show a wide range of features, including classic goals, historic moments, club news, offers and information from club partners. Meanwhile, three leaves of the iconic John Lyall Gates from the Boleyn Ground have been relocated to the Stadium Store in tribute to one of West Ham’s all-time greats, the club’s longest-serving post-war manager. ‘Our spectacular new Stadium Store will transform the customer experience for our supporters,’ says Karren Brady, vice chairman of the club. ‘We’re delighted to be releasing 1,200 new lines of product, and with so many more till points we fully expect to serve supporters quickly, even at the busiest times. ‘It’s been beautifully fitted out with West Ham touches all around and, with our very own coffee shop downstairs, I’m absolutely sure this is going to become a place that supporters really enjoy visiting all week long.’

the world,’ says a spokesperson for Barber. The storefront is suspended over an aquarium and incorporates large LG LED screens featuring footage of marine life, offering a seamless integration of digital and reality. The blending of digital with reality continues in store, where customers can enjoy footage from Discovery Channel, be entertained by further aquariums and browse the range of Discovery products and gifts, as well as Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo merchandise. Alongside products from Discovery’s most popular programmes, faces and franchises, the shop will remain true to its philanthropic

outlook, offering a number of brands specifically chosen for their commendable efforts in supporting charities that promote environmental conservation and the wellness of human beings. ‘One of the most effective ways to promote environmental awareness and conservation initiatives is to instil a sense of real-life engagement with these activities in the minds of the public,’ says Maitha Al Dossari, CEO of Emaar Entertainment LLC. ‘The Discovery Channel store’s elaborate tie-ins with charitable entities enables people not only to learn more about the aquatic world but also participate in making a difference. This is a unique model of “responsible retail” that underlines our commitment towards conservation.’

Dubai Mall welcomes The Discovery Channel flagship The Discovery Channel has opened a flagship concept store in the Dubai Mall as part of a new partnership between Emaar Entertainment and Discovery Consumer Products. Located in the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, the 150 sq m store is designed with an emphasis on conservation and philanthropy, promoting the concept of ‘responsible retail’. The Discovery Channel Licensing team worked closely with Barber Design to develop a store that offers a unique mix of merchandise and educational experiences, with a message of conservation at its core. ‘Discovery Channel gave us a blue-sky freedom that really allowed us to push the boundaries of customer experience and retail design to create a truly unique retail environment within the largest mall in

harlequin-design.com | twitter.com/HarlequinLondon | facebook.com/harlequindesignlondon | +44(0)20 7253 6238 | London EC1V 0DS

visual merchandising

Window shopping Inspiring window displays from around the globe

Chloe Playing with perspective, Chloe together with Chameleon Visual have created a distorted room layout in each window across a run of six windows at Saks 5th Avenue in New York City. The room sets are inspired by the PreFall16 look book set, which was shot in Paris. The marble floor has been placed on the back wall, surrounded by distorted French paneling, complemented by a ready-to-wear textured patchwork print, which is printed onto a textured carpet. Photography: Julia Chesky

Selfridges Selfridges is marking the 400th anniversary year of the death of Shakespeare with a store-wide campaign. Shakespeare reFASHIONed offers a mix of bespoke window creations by leading fashion designers, special product collaborations and a fully fledged theatre, complete with theatrical workshops open to the public, access to rehearsals and the staging of a new version of Much Ado About Nothing. The window displays evoke the playwright’s central themes and characters, and translate the essence of some of Shakespeare’s most famous works in two big window showcases, one dedicated to comedy, the other to tragedy.

Clarks Shoes The sale windows at Clarks Shoes follow on from the SS16 Phase 3 campaign by Harlequin Design, featuring bespoke mirror foil butterflies mounted onto a series of acrylic rings. In this most recent scheme, red butterflies take over the windows. The display draws the viewer’s attention to the centre of the window, to the seemingly floating shoes.

visual merchandising

Wallis Wallis collaborated with Blacks VM on the design of its high summer window scheme. Pressed palms in pastel acrylic screens give a structured and modern take on the retailer’s high summer window, while minimal mannequins allow passers-by to see into the store (mannequin renovations, wigs and make-up all by Panache Display).

Harrods

Joseph For its Fulham Road store in London, Joseph worked alongside Tenn to create this pre-AW16 scheme. The concept is a confrontation between the natural and artificial worlds, and the surrounding environment. The ‘monochromatic landscape’ incorporates fluid shapes that undulate across the window bed and fill the entire space. The sculptural matt white forms are contrasted with hand-painted curvy gloss black lines that act as an abstract blank canvas to present an edit of Joseph’s pre-AW16 collections.

In July, Harrods launched its first ever store-wide fine watch takeover. The campaign, entitled Made with Love and Precision, runs through the Fine Watch Room and the Brompton Road windows until mid-August. The window displays focus on craftsmanship and rare materials, with oversized versions of each timepiece embedded in a particular type of material, carefully arranged to accentuate each brand’s distinctive identity and the particularities of each watch.

Ted Baker This latest window scheme at Ted Baker showcases the new Colour by Numbers womenswear collection. Created in collaboration with Harlequin Design, the display incorporates giant silver birch pencils and pencil sharpenings, alongside drawing easels with sketches of the collection.

NikeCourt To celebrate the NikeCourt X Liberty Summer ‘16 collection, Seen Displays created a 3D window display and in-store experience featuring the Dawn Meadow pattern, inspired by botanical drawings from the Liberty archive. The window, on London’s King’s Road, features a white powder-coated metal structure with a tennis court framework attached to the back of the unit, and faux flowers in the centre.

See more window installations online:

www.retail-focus.co.uk/vm

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The brief: To create a retail POS solution to support the launch of a new Windows-based tablet by one of the UK’s leading supermarkets, to be sold under the retailer’s ‘Connect’ brand. One of the biggest challenges with these so-called two-in-one devices is shopper awareness. The second is confidence that a device that looks like a tablet can also perform well as a laptop.

The solution: To help support the new Intel powered product launch in store, award-winning retail display specialist arken P-O-P set about adapting its already successful riser display solution, previously developed for Intel. Already installed into thousands of retail stores across Europe, it has been nominated for Best Consumer Electronics Display in the 2016 POPAI Awards. Enabling both tablet and keyboard to be displayed prominently on-shelf, the innovative display features an ‘energy recovery’ solution that powers the integrated LED lighting from the device on display, negating the need for a dedicated power socket.

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2016 Speakers JP Kuehlwein Alex Mead Managing Director, Global Chief Customer Officer Strategy & Innovation Golfbreaks.com Premium Products Procter & Gamble

Anna Kirah Head of Service Design and the Customer Experience Unikia

James Libor Marketing Technology Manager Virgin Holidays

Mads Jensen Head of Marketing Communications & PR Søstrene Grene

Stacie Maxey Director of Database Marketing Domestic & General

Geoff Richards Head of Data, Analytics & Insight Condé Nast

Julia Porter Director of Consumer Revenues Guardian

Garreth Cameron Strategic Liaison Group Manager ICO

Hannah Rustin Customer Experience Lead Moss Bros

Kerensa Samanidis Head of Digital Products BFI

Eloise Smart Brand Strategy Director StoryWorks

Markus Hohl CEO Hellon

Matthias Murin Head of Customer Service DocMorris

Kirsty Montgomery International CRM Manager Hunkemöller International

Martin Greenbank Head of Advertising & Development Channel 4

Ian Drake Director of Customer Engagement Betsson Group

Nathan Ansell Global Director-Loyalty Customer Insight and Analytics M&S

Bia Bezamat Innovation Consultant GDR Creative

Chris Haighton Head of Customer Service Transformation Shop Direct

Kristin Mollerpass Loyalty Manager Norwegian Air Shuttle

Stephen Cooper Partner Manager UK Market Norwegian Air Shuttle

Jason De Winne, General Manager, UK ICLP

James Leech Digital, Technology & Innovation Manager Customer Services Argos

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Q&A column

Karl McKeever Bazaar market forces Last month I travelled to Morocco. At first glance, the ancient city of Marrakech seems to be a world away from the gleaming shopping capitals of London, Paris, Dubai or New York. Of course, it has its share of international brands, including Zara, Mango, Stradivarius and Monsoon, and these are all characterised by the standards of the brand. But, these international stores have met with mixed success, mainly because they are located in a dilapidated part of the ‘New City’ and do not always match the customs, taste, style or budget of the local population. It shows that cultural changes should be gradual, realistic and sensitively executed; simply parachuting in property developers and inexperienced franchisees can be extremely risky and can damage even the strongest brands. Inside the Medina, the walled Old City of Marrakech, it can feel like you have stepped back in time. The maze-like streets are filled with chaos and clamour, and that is part of its charm. The markets of the Medina are both curious and bizarre; a dense and dimly lit warren of ramshackle shops, grimy workshops and tiny kiosks that sit alongside luxury spas and boutique riads. Along the dusty lanes, in what might be termed the ‘in-store’ areas, you can stumble upon stalls selling regional specialities like rugs, hand-thrown pottery, decorative metalwork, lighting and souvenirs. But, step beyond the low-grade tourist goods and the attendant hassle, and there are hidden treasures to be found. One of the reasons Marrakech attracts so many tourists is down to the fact that it taps into our sense of exploration and discovery. This is also true in the UK, where retail experiences increasingly involve finding something different from the mainstream, hunting down a bargain or even haggling on price. The appeal of discount supermarkets such as Lidl and Aldi lies not just in the fact that they offer low prices but also because customers can find interesting continental goods alongside their usual groceries. This very point was highlighted in a piece of industry research I came across recently, which claimed 47 per cent of shoppers liked the fact they could find products in discounters that they couldn’t find elsewhere.

Karl McKeever is creative director of visual merchandising and brand delivery consultancy Visual Thinking.

Email Karl at karl@retailfocus.co www.visualthinking.co.uk

It also explains the popularity of a brand like HomeSense, which gives shoppers the chance to buy high-quality, branded homeware at heavily discounted prices. Unlike other department stores, products are sourced from a range of suppliers, providing a ‘treasure hunt’ experience for customers. This creates the perception that what is on offer is more unique compared to the ‘me too’ ranges of their mainstream competitors. It also encourages shoppers to come back time and again as the shelves are continually filled with different products. What struck me most about the Medina of Marrakech is the way good, bad and frankly awful traders sit side by side with little thought given to structuring the stalls into anything that could create an easy, logical and cohesive customer journey. Shopping here can never be done quickly so if you are searching for something specific you have to be prepared to work hard to find it. As a tourist you might be willing to excuse this and simply accept it for the alternative and fascinating cultural curiosity that it is. But, transfer this approach to the UK high street and it certainly wouldn’t have quite the same appeal. Make no mistake: when it comes to how you manage retail space, there is a fine line between delivering intrigue and confusion. So-called organised chaos might seem attractive but to do it well requires a highly considered approach and investment to develop clearly defined retail standards and policies. While I am not suggesting that retailers should become as ‘informal’ as the Medina, injecting a greater sense of freedom into the retail experience can be key to creating a more engaging customer journey in store. However, it should be underpinned by effective zoning, including the segmentation and coordination of ranges. Whether people are shopping in Manchester or Marrakech, practices such as these will ensure they have a more enjoyable and rewarding visit. Although big brand shopping is firmly embedded in the UK landscape, my time in Marrakesh has reinforced my belief that there are still plenty of lessons to be learnt. In fact, looking at these kind of retail markets can open your eyes to fresh ideas in the same way that the latest shiny concept store in the west can. Naturally, the Medina could benefit from some constructive commercial principles, thoughtfully and sensitively introduced to benefit shoppers, traders and the city itself. Seating, landscaping, trusted taxi ranks, clean public toilets and even Wi-Fi would bring the Medina into the modern world and should be at the top of the agenda for the local authorities. But, just as I’m not advocating that Marrakech transforms its markets into a mall, so UK retailers do not need to raze their stores to the ground in order to improve performance. Despite our relentless quest for uniformity, brands should also consider ways in which they could lift some of their self-imposed restrictions. This could be introducing the excitement that the Medina offers but in a structured and consistent way, making the overall experience less stiff and stuffy but ultimately richer. Surely that’s what we all want, in one way or another.

project focus

Bottletop Regent Street, London Design: Krause Architects Opening date: April 2016 Store size: 34 sq m

project focus

British ethical fashion brand, Bottletop opened a temporary store on London’s Regent Street in April with an interior design that truly reflects its collections and values. Set up in 2012 by Oliver Wayman and Cameron Saul (son of Mulberry founder, Roger Saul), the company aims to redefine the meaning of luxury with its stylish, sustainable handbags and accessories that are all handmade in Brazil using up-cycled materials. The 34 sq m store, at the bottom end of Regent Street towards Piccadilly Circus, was created in collaboration with Krause Architects and marries industrial design with contemporary art. The interior highlights core materials used in the collections, such as the eye-catching metal canopy which spreads across the store and is constructed from nearly 3,000 cans. The shelving around the perimeter of the store is expertly clad by AV Studios in certified ‘zero deforestation leather’ while the display cabinets are wrapped in repurposed sheet aluminium. ‘All of our products are made in Brazil and we wanted this to be translated to the customer,’ explains Wayman. ‘We looked at the repetitive design features which the up-cycled aluminium ring pulls on our products create and we decided to use the same language on the ceiling display, using the body of the can instead. Krause then 3D modelled an undulating display to draw the customer in with the effect of an inverted rising silver tide.’ Bottletop worked with lighting design company XAL to bring the metal ceiling display to life. To complete the in-store customer experience, the brand commissioned Timothy Han Edition perfumes to create a bespoke scent featuring a specific kind of Brazilian Cedarwood, and Mario C (the Brazilian producer behind artists such as the Beastie Boys and Bjork) to curate a playlist. Proceeds from the Bottletop collections are used to fund the Bottletop Foundation, a charitable initiative that supports health education and vocational training projects that tackle delicate teenage health issues in Ethiopia, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Brazil and the UK. The fashion company also has a store on London’s Redchurch Street and will open a new site on Mott Street in New York in mid-July.

Photography: Martina O’Shea

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Tate Modern Bankside, London Design: UXUS Opening date: June 2016 Store size: 500 sq m The new Tate Modern Switch House extension by Herzog & de Meuron opened to the public in June with a special three day celebration in partnership with UNIQLO. The twisted, pyramid-like building on the south side of the River Thames, opposite St Paul’s Cathedral, is 10-storeys high and offers 60 per cent more space for visitors to explore, including new galleries, a viewing terrace, restaurant and a 500 sq m shop. Located at the base of the extension, the new UXUS-designed store is part shopping destination, part cultural

Photography: Ed Reeve

hangout. ‘It is designed as a “permanently temporary” space with the flexibility to respond to the gallery’s fast-changing exhibition and project schedule,’ says George Gottl, co-founder of UXUS Design. The space is divided into three zones — generalist, specialist and children — and uses a bespoke system of stackable furniture modules that can be reconfigured to keep the displays fresh and exciting for visitors. The system is also designed to accommodate seating for browsing and events such as book readings and talks.

The different product zones are reinforced by the material palette, which uses different accents of wood in the display modules to help shoppers intuitively navigate the various areas of the store. These accents are used in combination with a concrete floor and powder-coated steel fixings. A dado of display cases and signage above a stoppable level also helps visitors to navigate the space. ‘The idea of “feel, don’t read” is our philosophy on how we like customers to navigate the

project focus

shopping experience,’ explains Gottl. ‘By placing product cues above eye level, we help customers find what they need without the need to read signs.’ In the kid’s area, brightly coloured cubbyholes are incorporated into the bookshelves so that children can sit and look at books and toys. ‘One of the objectives for the new Tate Modern team was to become not only a great museum store, but a leading London retail destination in its own right,’ says Gottl. ‘Our job as a consultancy was to create a space that would extend the museum experience and showcase the products to their best advantage. The difference is a transformation from the standard museum “gift shop” to an exciting cultural retail experience.’ UXUS began collaborating with Tate Modern in 2010 and completed a successful pop-up shop for the museum’s Damien Hurst exhibition in 2012. This served as a prototype for the new, more ambitious store in the Switch House extension.

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SIRIN Bruton LABS Place, London Design: Elemental Design Opening date: June 2016 Store size: 80 sq m SIRIN LABS, a new entrant to the communications technology market, opened its first store in June, in London’s Mayfair, following the launch of its debut smartphone, SOLARIN. The high-end device, which already has an A-list clientele, offers military-grade security protection with unrivalled usability and comes with a premium price tag of £9,500. Tucked away on Bruton Place, the store sets a new benchmark for luxury tech retail. Branding agency Point One Percent in New York conceived the look, feel and layout of the space as part of the overall brand strategy. SIRIN LABS then worked with London-based Elemental Design to deliver the concept store, which references the brand language, tying together the digital platforms, packaging design, the mark of the logo and the product. Guided by SIRIN LABS’ extensive market research, Elemental sought to create a visually compelling environment that communicates the key features of SOLARIN. The result is an ‘unexpected, original and slick’ retail space. On opening, the shop window featured a scale model of part of the store, using raked perspective and trompe-l’oeil, and showcased the smartphone. The pale, minimalist interior is clad in marble with sharp white lines of light, reminiscent of lasers or scanners, slicing through the space. A sculptural collection of white plinths, snaking through the ‘experience area’ invites visitors to take a journey through the superior qualities of the product. Elemental Design partnered with Media Zest and Media Monks to create an interactive laboratory, bringing to life the sound, camera, network coverage, design and privacy features of SOLARIN. ‘By the end of this journey, it’s clear that SOLARIN is focussed to deliver tomorrow’s technology, today,’ says a spokesperson for Elemental Design. ‘However, you still will not have fully seen, nor handled, a handset.’ At the back of the store, in a whole other area, the ambience shifts from stark to

unapologetic luxury to set the final scene. The VIP lounge-cum-gallery has a colour palette of black with tones of bronze, and an abundance of texture, from hints of black painted brick to an entire wall of sumptuous velvet curtaining set against plush carpeting. Here, stunning rosewood panelling is teamed with black leather furniture and a perforated metal cocktail bar. The space is beautifully lit, with a pair of Foscarini chandeliers bearing a striking resemblance to the SIRIN LABS trademark. There is also a display wall that showcases the product and invites visitors for a closer look. Black lacquered panels support tall, bronze frames which each display a mobile, raised on an illuminated base. ‘The treatment is almost that of a jewellery merchandiser, with the centrepiece being a gracefully revolving device,’ says Elemental. ‘After the education, this is the seduction, which could only result in a very discreet transaction.’

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Photography: Arteh Odidja

men’s retail

A , man s world Text: Gemma Balmford

With the men’s clothing market growing at a faster rate than womenswear, it makes sense that more and more retailers are expanding their menswear lines and opening standalone menswear stores. As the ninth instalment of London Collections: Men kicked off in June, the British Fashion Council announced plans to rename the biannual event ‘London Fashion Week Men’s’ in a bid to make it more consumer facing. ‘LCM has grown to be the best menswear club in the world,’ said LCM chairman Dylan Jones at the opening event. ‘As fashion weeks change and our businesses start showing to consumers, we need to open our doors to more consumer facing content, both here and international markets to support this move. Over the next six months LCM will embrace London Fashion Week Men’s as a title to better engage with a consumer audience.’ The news came at the same time as Mintel released key figures showing that the menswear market is continuing to grow at a faster rate than womenswear. According to the 2016 menswear report, the men’s clothing market grew by 4.1 per cent to reach £14.1 billion in 2015, up from £11.4 billion in 2010. By 2020, this figure is expected to reach £17.2 billion. ‘In response to men showing a greater interest in their appearance, retailers are expanding menswear ranges, and more designers are debuting men’s clothing collections,’ says Tamara Sender, senior fashion analyst at Mintel. ‘As a result, the menswear market is reaping the rewards and growing at a faster rate than womenswear. However, as spend on clothing is increasingly competing with other areas, clothing retailers will have to work harder than ever to encourage men to part with their money. Tactics such as focusing on more stylish clothes for all ages, offering a wider range of larger sizes,

and combining retail with leisure to create destination shopping venues should prove successful for retailers moving forward.’ Earlier this year, Harvey Nichols unveiled its new menswear department following an extensive nine-month refurbishment. Located on the two lower ground floors of the store, the space moves away from the traditional shop-in-shop format and instead features a collection of specialised boutiques, including contemporary, international designers, off-duty, denim and tailoring, and accessories. It also incorporates a cafe, barbers and a new concept space housing the latest in gifts, technology, sunglasses and fragrance, as well as a curated series of installations and pop-ups. Martin Reid, innovation researcher at GDR Creative Intelligence, believes that as more men embrace finding and honing their own personal style, further menswear store designs will reflect this yearning for individuality and exclusivity with more cultish, narrative-rich in-store details. In addition to the new menswear destination at Harvey Nichols, Reid cites KITH’s NoHo expansion in New York, which treats its products like exhibits in an art gallery. ‘The streetwear brand uses culturally significant design cues, such as wall hooks shaped like hands, and a ceiling installation of Nike Air Jordan shoes from the 80s, that only its select urbane customer base would recognise and appreciate. As well as expressing the brand’s cultish values, these playful and polarising in-store details help customers build affinity and emotionally invest with KITH’s products.’ American menswear retailer Bonobos, which launched in 2007 as an online-only

men’s retail

brand, is currently making waves in the US with its so-called ‘Guideshop’. The concept store enables customers to browse the entire Bonobos assortment (while enjoying a beer), find the perfect fit and then place an order for free home delivery. ‘More stores are treating their products as metaphors for a bigger lifestyle experience,’ continues Reid. ‘Retailers such as Ted Baker and Bonobos anchor the customer journey in fulfilling and complementing their customers’ lifestyles, whether by the way they arrange their merchandise, zone the physical space or how they encourage staff to interact and get to the root of customers’ needs.’ Last year, high street fashion retailer New Look opened its first standalone menswear stores as the company looks

to strengthen its relationship with its customers. The store design takes a more masculine approach to materials and finishes, including blackened raw steel, wired glass with rusted steel, raw and polished concrete, and leather and aged copper details. With the men’s clothing market growing at a faster rate than womenswear, it makes sense for New Look, which is heavily biased towards womenswear, to focus more on its men’s offering, claims Sender. ‘The opening of standalone menswear stores and a revamping of its menswear departments in its mixed stores will help.’ In February, fashion label Joseph opened its first standalone menswear store, on London’s historic Savile Row, and in March Whistles launched its first dedicated menswear store, in the heart of Shoreditch as the brand builds on the success of its menswear business. The UK is now the global leader in men’s fashion,’ states Julie Oxberry, founder and MD at Household Design. ‘Men around the world are buying from UK brands online and traveling to the UK to shop. In addition, the men’s lifestyle sector is growing with a seemingly increased awareness between the link of looking good and achieving success. ‘It could be said the resurgence of craftsmanship throughout the whole fashion industry has played a part,’ adds Oxberry. ‘Brands with strong heritage, quality and a Savile Row-esque heritage are all doing well, suggesting that men are willing to pay more and are investing in good style.’ Reid believes that the sophistication of omnichannel retail is the main accelerator

Top: The new menswear department at Harvey Nichols features 270 brands, a Style Concierge Suite, a contemporary cafe, a traditional barbers and a concept space called Project 109. Left: The menswear floor at Michael Kors on Regent Street features custom seating and a full-size pool table. Below left: Whistles opened its first dedicated menswear store in March, in the heart of Shoreditch, Bottom left: New Look opened its first standalone menswear store in 2015 as the company looks to strengthen its relationship with its customers.

of growth in the men’s clothing market. ‘Thanks to the variety of subscription services, personal shopping solutions and even in-store technologies facilitating discovery, curation and customisation, shoppers are less afraid to approach the category and they can find what they are looking for more easily,’ he notes. ‘For the most part, men are still functional shoppers,’ claims Reid. ‘[But], with the right retail logistics in place, more men will be seeing shopping as a charm rather than a chore.’

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Spring/Summer 2016

r e w o Fl er w o p s y a l p s i d l Flora

News Queen at 90: Window displays Mannequins

145 TOTTENHAM COURT ROAD LONDON W1T 7NE sales@dzd.co.uk 020 7388 7488 www.dzd.co.uk

Welcome There is no better way to celebrate the start of summer than visiting Chelsea in Bloom, the annual floral art show in London. As illustrated in the June issue, the streets of Chelsea came alive with colour in May as stores took part in the festival, creating carnival-themed displays inspired by the Rio Olympics. As we continue into the British summer, brands and retailers across the city are producing stunning floral window schemes to highlight and complement their SS16 collections. In this special VM supplement, we check out some of the displays blossoming on the high street. As part of our focus on visual merchandising and display, we also cover the latest mannequin trends and look back on some of the fun schemes designed to celebrate the Queen’s 90th Birthday. Don’t forget to submit your entries for the VM & Display Awards 2016 by 18 August! Gemma Balmford

41 Fit for a royal

News

43-44 Strike a pose 39

47-48 Flower power

News

The latest news from the visual merchandising and display industry. www.retail-focus.co.uk

Managing Editor Gemma Balmford e. gemma@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)7908 895 906

Editor Lyndsey Dennis e. lyndsey@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)7500 138 810

Production & Web Terry Clark e. terry@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405

Display Sales Lee Cullumbine e. lee@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405

41 Fit for a royal Window displays to commemorate the Queen’s 90th Birthday.

43-44 Strike a pose The latest mannequin trends.

47 47-48 Flower power From hand-dyed petals to sculpted metal wire creations, we admire some of the floral displays blossoming around London.

51-53 Products Products and services for the visual merchandising and display sector.

news

Barthelmess shares inspiration at Vision 2016 event Visual merchandising specialist Barthelmess once again hosted its Vision event in June, selecting Berlin as this year’s location. The event led guests on a tour of Berlin, exploring different perspectives of the capital. Visits included tours of the Mall of Berlin and Bikini Berlin, the latter a new type of concept shopping mall that opened in 2014. Guests heard from a number of key speakers. Marc Blum, director, creative design at ECE Projektmanagement, discussed ‘Shopping Centre Perspectives That Matter’. He said shopping malls need to be ‘cool, interesting and emotionally charged’. Blum said shopping malls need great food experiences; they are now anchor tenants as they drive people in and

make them stay. ‘Expectations of food in malls have grown quickly.’ He also noted that current shopping malls may have to shift to incorporate outdoor experiences, such as rooftops/gardens. ‘The challenge is to create authentic food spaces with the limited space you have; creativity is key.’ He then went on to talk about branding, positioning and storytelling. ‘Every location is completely different — the design must reflect this. Sometimes it’s just a logo, sometimes it’s the whole plan.’

Aitor Throup sculptures on display at Dover Street Market Aitor Throup, artist, designer and creative director of A.T. Studio, exhibited all six of the life-size articulated sculptures that were part of his New Object Research debut runway show on the ground floor of Dover Street Market in London. The highly anticipated New Object Research collection called ‘The Rite of Spring/ Summer/Autumn/Winter’ was presented at Throup’s debut runway show at the Holy Trinity Church in Marylebone during London Collections: Men. Available for purchase exclusively through Dover Street Market, the one-off articulated sculptures are individually

titled and each one features a complete outfit of newly developed archetypes from the second New Objet Research collection. The intricately engineered sculptures acted as performing puppets during the show and visually told the story of the New Object Research collection, and their own chronological evolution expressed the emotion and energy of Throup’s autobiographical narrative, performed by a team of London’s best puppeteers. Each sculpture is a custom creation, engineered and developed from 3D scans of Throup, creating self portraits.

Dr David Bosshart, CEO of the Gottlieb Duttweiler Institute in Rüschlikon/ Zurich, discussed ‘Megatrends in Economy and Society’. He discussed how mobile has raised customer expectations. ‘Your smart phone is a remote control to the whole world; it’s an experience machine. Retail must adapt. The more you rely on technology, the more we need the power of imagination. The problem is not a lack of technology, it’s a lack of imagination.’

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Queen at 90

Fit for a From commemorative mugs to Royal Corgis in party hats, British brands celebrated the Queen’s 90th Birthday in a very British way.

royal Liberty London

To celebrate the Queen’s 90th birthday, Liberty London adapted an archive scarf design created for the Queen some years ago to decorate a giant commemorative birthday mug, set off against a sparkly backdrop. Image: Melvyn Vincent

Hamleys A royal display of TY Teenie Beanie Boo merchandise took centre stage in the windows at Hamleys London for the Queen’s Birthday. Created in collaboration with Propability, the mission impossiblethemed displays featured Teenie Beenie Boos dangling from bungees at varying heights. The scheme also incorporated Corgi cut-outs and a red felt floor along with a plane, flying the banner ‘Happy Birthday your Majesty’.

John Lewis John Lewis partnered with Harlequin Design to produce a run of five windows at its Oxford Street store, as well as two feature windows at Peter Jones on Sloane Square, London. The displays were designed as an eye-catching reincarnation of the summer window scheme. The installation incorporated artificial red, white and blue summer flowers ,which were used to form a Union Jack. On Oxford Street, the displays were topped off with celebratory neon signs.

Cath Kidston As a British heritage brand, Cath Kidston felt it was only fitting to commemorate the Queen’s 90th birthday, not only with its product offering but also its store windows. The Piccadilly store windows in London centred around the Queen’s 90th Birthday products while incorporating the brand’s iconic Guards and Guards and Friends designs through illustrative window vinyls alongside Royal Corgis in party hats.

mannequins

STRIKE

A POSE Text: Lyndsey Dennis

Eco-friendly materials and a combination of abstract forms with realistic features are key trends in the mannequin sector, finds Retail Focus.

Left: The Cameleon collection from Window France has removable eyes and lips, which allow brands to keep on top with the very latest trends. Right: proportion:london worked alongside sculptor Rob Patterson in developing the Mademoiselle collection.

‘There are over 2.5 million mannequins in UK retailer stores, the vast majority of which are made using fibreglass, which equates to almost 40,000,000 tonnes of CO2 per year, and retailers are doing very little about this,’ says Andi Grant, creative director at Global Display. Like most areas of manufacture, the mannequin industry is striving to use recycled materials where possible. ‘We don’t believe, however, that retailers should have to compromise when seeking an eco solution as a mannequin is the most powerful marketing tool of any brand, and it’s vital that this merchandising tool reflects the brand and the fashionwear it is to represent,’ says Grant. Cue Global Display’s Eco mannequin, which features natural plant fibre reinforced polymers. As for trends, Grant says recent years have seen very statuesque abstract figures with the same pose and position repeated to create visual impact. ‘Both as a response to this, and also inspired by the Kidulthead trend, mannequins are set to become much more dramatic, with increased levels of movement, dynamism and fun. Faces with some features are returning to popularity as faces provide personality, although full realistic figures are still reserved for those with the VM expertise to maintain and utilise effectively,’ he says. ‘Wigs are being further utilised to easily update a mannequin display, and create eye-catching looks which can easily be refreshed seasonally.’ The Cameleon collection from Window France has removable eyes and lips, which allows brands to keep on top with the very latest trends. Universal Display is developing a new female form that will launch at Retail Design Collective in December. ‘Without giving too much away, we are looking at more realistic poses and drama,’ hints Jonathan Berlin, managing director of Universal Display. ‘We are complementing the poses with a vast array of heads to be able to deliver either abstract, semi-abstract or realistic within the same range to give it further versatility.’ Environmental credentials are key to Universal Display. ‘We are always looking at new materials for manufacture and even for our packaging. We are constantly looking at our carbon footprint. In terms of materials in manufacture, where possible we use water-based paints, bio resins and recycled cardboard and paper. We are currently testing some very interesting materials for manufacture which have never been

mannequins

used before,’ says Berlin. ‘Natural materials and texture have always inspired us and often feature throughout our mannequin, bust form and accessory collections, not only because we appreciate the rawness of its natural state but also because they can easily be manipulated into a variety of looks,’ says Natasha Berridge, PR & marketing manager at proportion:london. One of the company’s recent mannequin collections, COMPONENTS, encompasses a variety of natural materials, including concrete, wood, hessian, raw papier-mache, cork and felt. ‘The objective of this range was to provoke thought on people’s buying habits in the hope that it would influence them into “buy wisely, keep forever”, thus being a sustainable and costeffective decision for visual merchandisers. Looking at the bigger environmental picture, we not only consider our materials but also quality, which affects the longevity of our products,’ says Berridge. She feels there will be a continuation of model-army mannequin formations but with sophisticated fabrications — brutalist materials like on-trend concrete can contrast with resins, and rusty or patina finishes. ‘We’ve also noticed luxe brands are stepping away from mannequins and returning to bust forms. We believe this is because the high street is saturated with amorphic mannequins and it’s time for change! Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci are leading the way with their latest campaigns and the revival of the upholstered bust form. Let’s watch this space to see who follows the trend. We specialise in accessory presenters and see a re-focus on the importance of their presentation as the “it” bag picks up momentum again. Check Mulberry, Celine and Stella,’ notes Berridge. ‘We see abstract style mannequins taking one step further and applying realistic features with applied make-up, taking the full circle to the renaissance of full realistic mannequins,’ says Chloe Scarlett, marketing director at Rare Basic. ‘We are currently working on bespoke pieces of realisticabstract hybrid forms, launching in our showroom soon,’ reveals Scarlett. Rare Basic’s mannequins are recyclable and not made from fibre glass. ‘Rare Basic understands that if we’re going to supply a more environmentally friendly product, we need them to be manufactured in a more environmentally responsible way. Rare Basic and IDW have worked together investing time and resources into the varying options of recycling mannequins and sourcing greener forms of packaging. In addition to working in recycled material we continually look to improve the life cycle of our product and search for ways to reduce our environmental footprint.’ Panache Display launched LDN Girls at the VM & Display Show in April. This new range is a departure from the straight mannequin poses that have been so popular over the past few years. Each of these girls has a strong sense of movement and character. The LDN Girls have been designed as a group of five girls, each mannequin sculpted in striking walking poses. ‘Behind the scenes we have been busy working on bespoke projects and development of Panache collections for clients alongside new ranges to launch before Autumn ’16. Movement, customisation, finishes and “ath-leisure” continue to trend across retailers,’ says Gareth Hughes, new business manager at Panache Display. ‘We are now the UK Agent for Vision - Fashion Mannequins. The innovative and beautifully designed collections have appealed to clients looking for a premium mannequin in an extensive choice of creative positions.’ Bonaveri (available in the UK through Blue Studio) is preparing a new collection for Euroshop in March 2017. ‘It will be a big surprise for the market since we have taken a completely new direction concerning the artistic nature and meaning of mannequins,’ says Marzia Ricchieri, business development manager at Bonaveri. The Italian brand constantly reinvents figures and shapes

as a main part of its work is to create bespoke products to fulfil a growing request of demanding clients that want to diversify themselves and have a unique image. Green credentials are also key to the company. ‘The environment is for sure an important drive for the fashion industry. Bonaveri will soon be announcing some news on its environmental practises,’ says Ricchieri. Retail Design Collective this December, followed by EuroShop in March 2017, will unveil some interesting developments in the mannequin world...

From top: LDN Girls by Panache Display can be used as an abstract form or realistic with wigs and make up; Noble, the male Schläppi collection designed by Bonaveri, offers versatile poses and attitudes, designed to enable mannequins to group and interact with each other; Global Display’s Eco mannequin features natural plant fibre reinforced polymers; Rare Basic’s Silk and Velvet collections embody the spirit of runway shows, striding out confidently.

GENESIS ad for retail focus 5-16.indd 1

13.04.16 09:14

floral displays

This summer the high street is in full bloom with beautiful floral window and in-store displays that highlight and complement the latest collections. From hand-dyed petals to sculpted metal wire creations, we admire some of the schemes flourishing around town.

Goat

in collaboration with Making Noise Quietly This beautiful scheme at Goat on London’s Conduit Street features hand-dyed blooms in soft tones of blues and violets to showcase and reflect the launch of a new range of floral prints in the brand’s SS16 ready-to-wear collection. The sculpture, developed in collaboration with creative consultancy Making Noise Quietly, flows inside and out of the store and will remain in place until Goat launches its first AW16 window towards the end of August. ‘We have been working with Making Noise Quietly for over a year now, and Jamie and Sarah have built a fantastic relationship with the Goat creative team,’ says Jane Lewis, creative director at Goat Fashion. ‘They understand our aesthetic requirements and translate these into visual creations that surpass our expectations every time.’

Fendi Flowerland

in collaboration with Azuma Makoto and Millington Associates From 16 May to 19 June Italian fashion house FENDI opened a spectacular pop-up concept and flower shop by renowned Japanese flower artist, Azuma Makoto inside Selfridges London. The event marked the third collaboration between Fendi and Makoto, whose original flower designs feature as 3D floral motifs on the Flowerland bags and accessories, and were also recreated live with real flowers inside beautiful jars by artisans from Makoto’s team, working from a three-wheeled mini APE car. The floral oasis, produced and installed in partnership with Millington Associates, was designed to bring the women’s SS16 collection to life.

floral displays See more floral displays at www.retail-focus.co.uk/vm

Boodles

in collaboration with Seen Displays High-end jewellery brand Boodles has filled its windows with beautifully dyed petals and props this summer. Inspired by the ‘Finely Coloured’ collection of rare and exquisite coloured diamonds, the window displays centre around six delicate pastel colours, and incorporate hand-painted, still life props. The petals are encased in custom clear acrylic troughs, which sit underneath the display cases to give the effect that they are floating on a bed of flowers. In total, 200,000 petals and more than 500 rose and carnation heads were hand dyed to specific tonal ombres. The floral concept, created in collaboration with Seen Displays, was initially installed in two stores before being rolled out to all Boodles stores.

Guerlain

in collaboration with 4D Projects Creative agency, 4D Projects has designed, produced and installed one-off floral displays for French perfume house Guerlain (for Bouquet de la Mariee and L’Heure Bleue) in the Harrods Salon De Parfums on the sixth floor. Each creation is designed to complement and enhance the craftsmanship and heritage of the bottle. For Bouquet de la Mariee, 4D Projects sourced and arranged artificial flowers to create a focal point for what is quite a small, delicate crystal bottle. For L’Heure Bleue, the studio sprayed metal wire to match the company packaging and sculpted it to visually balance what is a heavy but intricate crystal bottle.

NEW RESOURCES FOR RETAILERS

RETAIL & VISUAL MERCHANDISING PRODUCTS Bespoke display commissions•Period shop fittings•Vintage props

Rosemount, Huddersfield Road, Elland, HX5 0EE, West Yorkshire Tel: +44 (0)1422 376000 Email: sales@andythornton.com andythornton.com

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products

VM + DISPLAY Fairfield Displays Just launched by Fairfield Displays, Nimbus is a range of contemporary display stands. High brightness LED poster holders can be positioned vertically or at an angle on a slim upright. The display stands are available as single or double sided. To increase interest the unit has been designed to take the new Samsung 24in high brightness (1500 cdn²) screen, which can have a live feed to promote the latest offers. T. +44 (0)1252 757 824 E. info@fairfielddisplays.co.uk www.fairfielddisplays.co.uk Twitter: fdluk

Signwaves Signwaves has launched its newest product to the market, the POW! Sign. This new concept in forecourt signs opens up new opportunities for tactical marketing beyond the standard rectangular poster and banner sleeves. Available in three sizes, the POW! Sign is guaranteed to grab attention due to its striking and wholly customisable shaped graphics along with its footprint. This new innovation is ideal for a variety of uses in the leisure, forecourt and retail environments. The maintenance free reinforced polypropylene sleeve allows for vibrant and larger-than-life images and text for high impact promotion. T. +44 (0)1493 419 300 E. enquiries@signwaves.co.uk www.signwaves.co.uk Twitter: signwaves_ltd

bbrown bbrown is an expert in providing creative display materials to clients across the globe in retail, exhibitions, TV, film and events. Its stock product range includes innovative materials such as glitter fabric, 3D illusion film, PVC, decorative 3D tiles and light enhancing panels; ideal for creating wowfactor displays. bbrown Glitter, one of the company’s most popular special finishes, is ideal for adding glamour to any environment. It’s available in two different finishes and a large range of colours to suit most requirements, including pink, gold, green, red, blue, white, black, purple, silver and bronze. T. +44 (0)3705 340 340 E: customerservices@bbrown.co.uk www.bbrown.co.uk Twitter: luvbbrown

Andy Thornton Andy Thornton offers a comprehensive range of garment racks and display stands as part of its popular Urban Vintage range of visual merchandising and retail display products. Perfect for fashion stores and with many uses in their retail applications, the range includes single and double garment rails, some with height adjustable lower rails in a variety of finishes. The range also includes unusual shoe display stands, jewellery and handbag stands and even changing room bench display units inspired by school furniture of a bygone era. For the full range of visual merchandising products from Andy Thornton, visit the company’s website. T. +44 (0)1422 376 000 E. sales@andythornton.com www.andythornton.com Twitter: andythorntonltd

products

VM + DISPLAY T.C. Millwork T.C. Millwork introduces SMARTWALL IN A BOX: a UL listed self-contained retail display unit that installs almost as easily as hanging a picture frame. The system’s lightweight illuminated shelves can be arranged anywhere along its powered standards without having to connect any wires, providing retailers with ultimate flexibility. Multiple units can be daisy chained together, powering a total of 40 linear feet with just one standard duplex outlet. Compared to typical retail wall systems, the associated installation costs are greatly reduced and the low voltage LED lighting will ensure more energy efficiency. Available in 2ft or 4ft wide sections, SMARTWALL IN A BOX is manufactured to work within any retail environment. T. +1 215 245 4210 E: sales@tcmillwork.com www.tcmillwork.com Twitter: TCMillwork

Window France The Cameleon mannequin collection from Window France has removeable eyes and lips, and allows brands to be up with the very latest trends. The company has unveiled its make-up trends for 2016, taken from this year’s spring/summer international fashion shows. Clients can compose their own make-up creations online at the Window France make-up mixer: www.window-mannequins.com/ MAKEUP T. +44 (0)7775 500 964 E. michael@smithvc.com www.window-mannequins.com Twitter: WindowFrance

Harlequin Design Harlequin designs, produces and installs retail window displays. The company’s aim is simple: to create unique environments that bring brands to life. The company works in partnership with its clients every step of the way, from initial sketches to final install. T. +44 (0)207 253 6238 E. andrew@harlequin-design.com www.harlequin-design.com Twitter: HarlequinLondon

4D Projects 4D Projects is a creative agency specialising in display, visual merchandising, exhibition design and brand spaces. The company works in retail and the fine-art and luxury sectors creating displays to show off your product to its best. The team’s design solutions work to enhance your brand personality, from the up-cycled chic of The Natural Shoe Store to the sophisticated narrative of De Beers Jewellery. 4D Projects’ large mews buildings in the heart of Central London enable the company to manufacture in-house to ensure its clients not only get brilliant creative solutions, but with the assurance that they can be manufactured, delivered and installed seamlessly under one roof. T. +44 (0)203 601 1180 E. studio@4dprojects.com www.4dprojects.com Twitter: 4DProjects

Other body parts also available Find out more on 0330 44 55 026

www.armourfx.com

2015-02-10 Mix.indd 1

10/02/2015 15:48:41

beauty retail

CHANGING FACEs:

Beauty retail Text by Lyndsey Dennis

Focusing on instant personalisation, beauty retail environments are now interactive social hubs where enthusiasts gather to inspire each other and learn about the latest products and trends from peers and friends, not just sales associates, finds Retail Focus.

In December 2015, market intelligence agency Mintel announced four key trends set to impact global beauty markets over the next decade — augmented human, water: the new luxury, power play and gastronomia. According to the company, in a future where the line between human and technological device blurs, water becomes a protected resource, energy concerns ring true and natural ingredients take centre stage, beauty brands must innovate to stay relevant. ‘We are living in exciting times with revolutionary advancements in technology, brand partnerships and product development. However, we think the coming years will bring stark contrasts in personal technology and natural ingredients that will drive beauty innovation over the next decade. Already, beauty manufacturers are working on new generations of beauty products that will satisfy consumers’ needs for speed and efficacy,’ says Jane Henderson, global president of beauty and personal care division at Mintel. ‘Today’s beauty spaces have shifted from static brand “advice” counters to socia media, peer-to-peer inspiration, interactive try-and-buy experiences,’ says George Gottl, co-founder of UXUS Design. The company designed the Sephora store of the future called Sephora T.I.P. (Teach, Inspire, Play) that addresses all the needs for new beauty consumers by inspiring them to play and discover new looks, brands and products in store. ‘The beauty stores of today are more than just places to buy cosmetics; they are social hubs, where beauty enthusiasts gather to inspire each other and learn about the latest products and trends from peers and friends, not just sales associates,’ he says. Gottl has seen beauty brands use large convertible tables

Above: Technology is a big part of NARS’ first boutique in the UK, in Covent Garden. Below left: At David Jones department store in Australia, Dalziel and Pow designed an interactive beauty area offering masterclasses and great value pampering treatments.

for master classes, beauty ‘studio’ areas for instant applications, and selfie opportunities complete with diva lights. He notes that technology is playing a leading role in beauty, with some brands offering services such as custom printed 3D lashes, printed while you wait, and foundation that is custom mixed on the spot to match skin tone. ‘Instant personalisation is the wave of the future and store spaces are being designed to accommodate those experiences,’ he says. At David Jones department store in Australia, Dalziel and Pow designed an interactive beauty area offering masterclasses and great value pampering treatments in partnership with Beauty EDU, which also operates a beauty school in the store. The collaboration combines beauty, retail and education, and masterclasses with leading make-up artists and beauty experts take place regularly. Technology is a big part of NARS’ first freestanding boutique in the UK, in Covent Garden. A technology-focused sales area includes a NARS cult classics wall and interactive magic mirror

beauty retail

technology for customers to instantly share their looks on social media. ‘Since Covent Garden is a buzzing neighbourhood, we wanted to be able to accommodate and tap into that energy with different features to engage the customer; elements that are unique to this store, such as the photo booth or the cult classic wall,’ says Fabien Baron, creative director of design firm Baron & Baron, who worked on the store design alongside NARS founder and creative director, François Nars. ‘There is the general feeling with NARS stores that we try and adhere to — a NARS store should be and feel as if you are entering into a chic Parisian apartment, it’s a very personal environment. It’s important that customers feel at ease and comfortable so they can engage with the make-up artists in a relaxed environment,’ says Baron. Interest in natural ingredients is on the rise, and today’s consumer requires more information about ingredients and manufacturing processes. Barber Design has continued its work with Neal’s Yard Remedies, designing the brand’s new-look Covent Garden flagship. Feature tables provide information to educate consumers and bespoke elements include a theatrical tincture unit and ‘Top Ten Favourites’ fixture. ‘High quality materials and bright colours help to infuse the Neal’s Yard Remedies’ ethos and brand identity throughout each store, whilst also providing a refreshing approach to their traditional apothecary environment,’ explains Neil Overall, creative director at Barber Design. ‘From being involved in designing the Neil Yard’s Remedies store over the last two years, skincare comes across as the segment with the biggest growth potential. My understanding is it will remain the flagship segment on the cosmetic market over the next few years,’ says Overall. On the fragrance front, New York designer fragrance brand Le Labo has chosen Seven Dials for its London West End flagship. Fragrances are mixed in front of the customer for a personalised experience, complete with scales, mixing beakers and lines of bottles like a chemistry lesson. Dalziel and Pow notes Le Labo in its Beautiful Convergence report. ‘Previously hidden spaces such as the workshop, studio and laboratory are increasingly becoming part of the retail space, giving an unprecedented insight into

what usually goes on behind the scenes. What’s more, brands are enabling customers to take the reins and create or customise their own pieces. The strategy promotes brand trust and, in turn, loyalty. Equally, behind-the-scenes entertainment can enrich the store experience and boost dwell time,’ says David Wright, group marketing director at Dalziel and Pow. The male beauty sector is vastly growing; something that Ted Baker has tapped into for a number of years. The retailer opened its flagship Grooming Room in Lancaster Place, London this year, offering gents the red carpet treatment in an urban aesthetic with historic ties. The space is based on the Lancaster Place building being a stone’s throw away from the original home of the BBC, and takes inspiration from the dapper dandies of television’s golden era. FormRoom produced a series of bespoke installations and sourced vintage items to style the slick interior. With an abundance of vloggers, bloggers and information at their fingertips, customers become experts armed with facts and information before entering a store. With the UK beauty industry worth £17 billion and growing year on year, brands are connecting to customers on an emotional level, creating platforms for customers to connect, share information and build loyalty and trust.

Below from left: Ted Baker’s flagship Grooming Room takes inspiration from the BBC’s golden television era; New York designer fragrance brand Le Labo chose Seven Dials in London for its London West End flagship; For Neil’s Yard Remedies in Covent Garden, Barber Design used high quality materials and bright colours to help infuse the brand’s ethos and brand identity.

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Shelving Strip

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Practical shelving and bookcase solutions. Suitable for retail environments, libraries, schools, offices, institutions, and more.

opinion

Class act Craig Phillipson, founder and managing director of Shopworks, explains how category management can help customers and retailers enjoy a smoother journey. In today’s competitive retail landscape, retailers need to truly understand their customers’ shopping behaviour in order to ensure they are creating the right environment and stocking the right products, in the right places. This is known as category management and, applied effectively, helps give customers a positive experience that will keep them coming back for more. Category management is an ongoing process that involves managing groups of similar products as business units called ‘categories’. By using customer information, gathered from data analysis, these categories are optimised to satisfy shopper needs and in the process, help to drive increased revenue for the retailer. Category management is well advanced in the FMCG world. However, retailers in other fields, particularly small to medium players, are not so familiar with this process. And, not practicing good category management can lead to a loss in sales, hamper trading relationships and potentially fail to manage risk. Those who embrace category management reap the rewards. Take Tesco, who through the launch of their clubcard in 1995, rewarded customer loyalty with goodies while gaining huge insights into their customers’ behaviour. These insights enabled Tesco to refine store layouts, prioritise the display of products at crucial times and give the customer a tailored in-store experience, while increasing margin with better stock management. Such valuable insights took Tesco’s grocery market share from number three in the 90’s, to number one very quickly, where they’ve remained ever since. And it’s not just grocers that benefit from practising category management. Apple has used technology to understand where its customers visit most in store. The company analyses customer flow and navigation to optimise store layouts in order to encourage people to browse more areas and spend more time in store, which ultimately leads to increased revenue. But, category management hasn’t always been around. It used to be the case that those who shouted loudest or had the biggest cheque book would gain the best in-store position. This was great for the brand or manufacturer but as customers weren’t necessarily being presented with products that met their needs, it was time for a change. The introduction of POS systems recording what customers were buying and when, allowed retailers to better understand how to categorise products, manage stock, and forecast for the future. The more recent arrival of big data companies analysing information from loyalty schemes, people tracking and mobile usage, has resulted in retailers becoming even smarter. So, how do you approach category management? We liken the process to running a car; there are lots of things you need to do to ensure it continually runs smoothly. We suggest a seven-step process to avoid a retailer’s MOT fail;

1. Product categorisation; grouping the products that you sell into small groups of similar products. 2. Define category roles; how important each category is to your business. 3. Category optimisation; favouring your best and removing your worst performing products. 4. Store clustering; grouping similar stores for more efficient logistics and a more tailored range of products. 5. Space allocation; assigning the right amount of space to each product. 6. Adjacencies; placing products near others that will drive spend per transaction and finally; 7. Planogramming; creating a visual store plan that communicates the location and amount of space given to each product in store. We applied these steps when working with Shell to revitalise its convenience offer. Using research and data analysis, we improved its product offer and layout of the forecourt shops. This led to impressive results. Food category sales improved by 49.2 per cent; total shop sales increased by 15.1 per cent; while shop margins improved by 19 per cent as customers bought more higher margin items. Shell has so far converted some 400 stores since 2012, with another 50 per year in the pipeline. With the influx of customer information and new technology, it’s never been more important and easier for retailers to practice good category management. Those who embrace it will reap the positive results and keep their customers happy. Don’t forget a store, like a car, topped up with the right products in the right place will lead to a smoother and more positive journey for both you and your customers.

www.shopworks.co.uk 61

shopfitting & design

PERFECT PARTNERSHIP:

DESIGN + SHOPFITTING

Text: Lyndsey Dennis

Collaboration is key when retailers, designers and shopfitters are creating the perfect retail environment.

‘Store owners want to make sure their stores pack a visual punch. A beautiful, vibrant and exciting interior and exterior could mean the difference between closing the sale or watching customers leave, or even worse just pass you by,’ says Robert Hudson, director of the National Association of Shopfitters (NAS). The NAS will once again host its Design Partnership Awards in September, which celebrate the success of retail, nonretail and leisure collaboration between interior designers, shopfitters and fit-out contractors. ‘The NAS is promoting greater collaboration between designers and fit-out contractors. This is essential to the ongoing success of the whole interiors sector to facilitate the continuous flow of exciting and exhilarating environments,’ says Hudson. ‘We continue to review and develop new categories, which continue to acknowledge the essential ingredients that make a vibrant and exciting interior. This year we are looking for lighting which is a critical part of the success of an interior.’ When looking at designs that are memorable, Hudson notes in the last two years of the awards the NAS has seen Hackett on Regent Street and Gieves and Hawkes on Savile Row illustrate this point exactly. ‘It might be the light fixtures, the colours on the wall or even a sign outside.

If you’re looking to take your store’s look from ordinary to extraordinary, attention to minute detail is critical,’ he says. ‘Collaborative working between the design team and shopfitter is pivotal to project success,’ says Nick Openshaw, design director at property services group Styles&Wood. ‘Working together, we can evaluate the peculiarities of each project, after all, no two are the same, and develop a robust plan which accurately responds to the client’s needs whilst providing best value and programme certainty. Clearly planning for change is also of importance as this invariably happens for a variety of reasons.’ Design consultancy gpstudio, fit-out specialist Portview, and design and project management company Leckenby Associates have collaborated on The Whisky Shop in Paris, where the interiors of the 19th century building were stripped back and traditional features highlighted. ‘With complex projects of this nature it’s very important to work as a collaborative team; different skills bases working seamlessly together to create something stronger than the sum of parts. With this project, gpstudio, Leckenby Associates and Portview worked closely to achieve such a result in terms of “quality” across design, programme, budget and shopfit,’ explains

This page (from left to right): Portview collaborated with architect and interior design firm Househam Henderson on Kate Spade’s Regent Street flagship; communication and collaboration is key, as was the case with Styles&Wood’s work with PEP&CO at seven locations. Facing page (from left to right): Dynamic Resources says collaborative working between designer and shopfitter is extremely important, especially with overseas projects like G Star RAW in Paris; the staircase at Kate Spade’s Regent Street flagship was a particular challenge, requiring an extensive section of the first floor to be cut out to accommodate it; gpstudio, Leckenby Associates and Portview worked very closely on The Whisky Shop in Paris.

shopfitting & design

Gregor Jackson, partner at gpstudio. ‘Programming of the whole project, including all the various trades and materials, is paramount to the success of the project and delivering the client’s vision on time. This is even more important when we are working on mainland Europe as any delay or incorrect sequencing has a greater financial effect,’ says Craig Leckenby, director at Leckenby Associates. ‘However, in Paris we had a great site team as well as the back up here in the UK. The project was planned well in advance, and due to some legal delays with getting access to the site we were given a slightly longer lead in than we would normally get on a retail project and we used this time to ensure everything was in place.’ Portview recently collaborated with architect and interior design firm Househam Henderson on Kate Spade’s Regent Street flagship. The £1.6m fit-out brought challenges for the project teams, not least that the upper floors of the building were occupied by 1,000 people working in open-plan offices, limiting the fit-out work to two-hour blocks and materials deliveries to a two-hour window each morning. ‘Househam Henderson’s previous experience with Portview was invaluable in the success of this project, particularly given

the design challenges such as the feature staircase and need for communication across multiple time-zones,’ says Abigail Blumsohn, interior architect at Househam Henderson. ‘The full project team, including Kate Spade’s design team, worked together to guide the evolution of the scheme. The collaborative effort between the contractor, architect and brand led to the delivery of a quirky and high quality project which I believe we can all take pride in.’ PJ Ward, contracts manager at Portview, says: ‘Collaborative working between design and shopfitter is extremely important. Portview liaised with the designers and the client from the start of the project to produce construction rod drawings from the concept drawings. We aim to make everyone’s job easier, including our own, so we spent time planning the sequence of this fit-out in order that we could meet the timescale, coordinate deliveries and cause as little disruption as possible for the other tenants in the building.’ Global retail services company Dynamic Resources agrees that collaborative working between designer and shopfitter is extremely important, especially with overseas projects. ‘They should have a good relationship and understanding of each others skills sets and challenges, and be able to communicate and work together effectively. We make sure that our project managers visit clients regularly and keep in touch with both designers and shopfitters and also update and consult the client via phone/email on a daily basis when projects go live. I would say that the role of the project manager is totally vital acting both as a ringmaster and point of contact for all concerned,’ says Laurie Chalmers, deputy managing director of Dynamic Resources. ‘Recently we have been working on various projects in the US and Canada, as well as Sydney, Australia and due to

time zone differentials we can’t always get answers to or from our clients right away. However, due to the trust that is placed in us by our clients and a bespoke online LIVE reporting tool that we have set up, it is possible to see what is going on in store 24/7,’ says Chalmers. She stresses the importance of sequence planning: ‘The client and the project manager must have a good relationship and keep in contact to ensure they know any changes in the plans and to make sure the store is open and delivered on time. Inevitably, we find there is a positive chemistry that evolves between the two parties and that helps considerably to get a tough job done on time and on budget.’ Something that every retailer, designer and shopfitter works towards.

NAS Design Partnership Awards 2016

Taking place on 15 September 2016 at BAFTA in Piccadilly, the NAS Design Partnership Awards 2016 will once again celebrate the success of retail, non-retail and leisure collaboration between interior designers, shopfitters and fit-out contractors. The awards pay tribute to those designers and contractors that continue to push the boundaries; who are not afraid of the challenges that they are presented with and who refuse to settle for anything but the very best. Visit www.shopfitters.org for more information about the awards.

products

FLOORING Polyflor Luxury vinyl tiles from Polyflor’s Affinity255 PUR collection were recently used to create a stunning herringbone design floor at Natural Bed Company’s showroom in Sheffield. 290 sq m of Affinity255 PUR vinyl flooring in the Seasoned Grey Oak design was installed in the shop floor area by Sheffield-based MG Flooring on this showroom project managed by Structural Interiors and designed by Studio Gedye architects. Whole planks of the grey wood effect luxury vinyl tiles were laid in a herringbone pattern. T. +44 (0)161 767 1111 E. info@polyflor.com www.polyflor.com Twitter: Polyflorltd

Kährs Kährs Oak Sparuto has been specified at Pho Grand Central, a new Vietnamese street food eatery at Birmingham Grand Central. Pho occupies a prime site within the new premier shopping destination, located above the city’s newly renovated New Street Station. Kährs design-treated wood floor complements Pho’s raw, urban design and eclectic mix of materials, from steel to bamboo. All flooring was installed by Blackpool-based shopfitters and building contractors, Thompsons. Part of Kährs Da Capo Collection, Oak Sparuto joins Kährs’ dark toned colour spectrum and features a tactile brushed and handscraped finish, which gives an aged, gnarly look. T. +44 (0)23 9245 3045 E: sales@kahrs.com www.kahrs.com Twitter: KahrsHardwood

Interfloor Visitors to this year’s Flooring Show in Harrogate on 18-20 September will be able to see Interfloor’s best-in-class underlays sporting clean new looks and upgraded technical specifications, plus some new additions to the portfolio designed to support retailers by providing an exceptional one-stop-shop supplying everything needed for the installation of floor coverings from one professional supplier. Interfloor has refreshed its heritage underlay brand Duralay to position it as the contractors’ brand of choice and for more technical applications in the home such as under wood flooring and with underfloor heating. The best-selling luxury underlay in the UK, Tredaire has also been updated and more contemporary-styled POS materials, including a new foot tester, are being introduced to further support retailers and enhance the in-store experience for consumers. T. +44 (0)1706 213 131 E. sales@interfloor.com www.interfloor.com Twitter: Interfloor1

Junckers Nordic Light Ash Wide Board from Junckers marries two contemporary decorating themes — a pale finish and the highly architectural look of wide board timber flooring. Light Ash is a beautiful timber with very characteristic graining and colouring and Junckers’ Nordic treatment gives it more interest, illuminating the characteristics to create a floor that is perfect for clean, modern interiors and with much sought-after light reflective quality. Finished with Junckers Ultra Matt lacquer for a hardwearing, durable finish, Nordic Light Ash comes in 129mm-wide boards, which are 20.5mm thick. T. +44 (0)1376 534 700 E. brochures@junckers.co.uk www.junckers.co.uk Twitter: junckersfloors

products

surfaces + finishes Perspex Perspex Sweet Pastels is a newly developed cast acrylic sheet collection made up of eight vibrant pastel colours available now from Perspex Distribution. This selection of fresh colours are set to tempt designers and point of sale specialists by offering a pick ‘n’ mix of mouth-watering vibrant flavours from Lemon Bonbon to Parma Violet. Eight pastel shades are available in a standard 3m x 2m sheet size with 3mm thickness. An additional benefit of each sheet is that it offers the best of both worlds with a different finish on each side offering both matt and gloss surfaces all in one sheet. T. +44 (0)1254 874 000 E. info@perspex.com www.perspex.co.uk/sweetpastels Twitter: @LuciteIntl

Fila Surface Care Solutions FILA’s surface care range includes a variety of treatments for floor renovation, from robust, textured porcelain to original quarry tiles and encaustics. All products are designed to provide high coverage and performance, whilst providing a safe application and protecting original surface characteristics. There are 36 surface care treatments — from stone and ceramic stain proofers, to grout protectors and cleaners. The range is recommended by 220+ leading tile manufacturers and stone suppliers. T. +44 (0)1584 877 286 E: filauk@filasolutions.com www.filasolutions.com/en Twitter: Filasurfacecare

Formica The Formica Door Collection brings an extensive selection of new patterns, tactile textures and colours to meet the design demands of retail environments. Introducing 27 new decors and 30 colours in Linewood surface finish, in addition to the existing 120 colours, 45 woods designs and 18 patterns, it brings the total collection to 186 decors. The inherent properties of Formica high pressure laminate means the Formica Door Collection is highly resistant to stains, impact and scratches and is maintainable, hygienic and FSC Certified. T. +44 (0)191 259 3512 E: samples.uk@formica.com www.formica.com Twitter: FormicaGroupEU

Armourcoat Armourcoat has announced the introduction of a refreshed company website and logo to coincide wiht the launch of a major new product for exterior wall applications. PPX (Polished Plaster eXternal) is a polymer-filled limestone render system suitable for new build and renovation projects, producing stunning honed and textured finishes for external spaces. The introduction of PPX represents entry into a significant new market for the company. Armourcoat also offers a complete PPX External Wall Insulation (EWI) system to provide outstanding thermal insulation tested to stringent ETAG standards. T. +44 (0)1732 460 668 E: sales@armourcoat.co.uk www.armourcoat.com Twitter: Armourcoat

products

TECHNOLOGY Futura Retail Solutions T J Hughes has replaced its legacy retail systems with the Futura EPOS and retail management solution to modernise systems and optimise performance as the group expands. Futura has been deployed in store across some 190 tills and with 25 users at head office to provide a robust and modern retail environment, capable of supporting the company’s omni-channel business model. With some 35,000 SKUs, Futura software is also managing stock for T J Hughes online and providing the integration to the company’s existing e-commerce provider and to the Peoplevox warehouse platform. T. +44 (0)1189 841 925 E. sales@futurauk.com www.futura4retail.co.uk Twitter: Futura_retail

Toshiba SignStix has formed a partnership with Toshiba to provide an end-to-end digital engagement solution to the retail and hospitality sectors. SignStix is a Toshiba Innovation Partner for Toshiba Global Commerce Solutions, helping retailers to build digital engagement solutions that are fully scalable and built to drive customer engagement and enhance in-store customer experiences. By combining SignStix’s digital signage software expertise with Toshiba’s impressive portfolio of innovative in-store solutions, support, and systems integration services for the retail sector, this relationship allows SignStix to operate across a global market, whilst supporting existing digital engagement projects. T. +44 (0)843 224 4944 E: info@toshibatec.co.uk www.toshibacommerce.com Twitter: toshibagcs

NEC Display Solutions Europe NEC Display Solutions Europe has announced a series of 55in and 65in Ultra High Definition (UHD) displays that feature advanced filtering techniques, ensuring a consistent and responsive multi-touch experience. The new MultiSync X551UHD and X651UHD-2 InGlassTM touch displays are designed to be used as touch tables, making them ideal for industries where applications are used for creating, sharing and collaborating, such as entertainment, creative media, interactive gaming, education and corporate. Businesses can use the touch displays to save time, working more efficiently whilst meeting the collaborative and productivity requirements that these industries demand. Integrated with InGlassTM touch technology, the displays set new standards for touch performance, creating a completely bezel-free, error-free, flat and durable touch surface. T. +44 (0)870 120 1160 E. infomail@nec-displays.com www.nec-display-solutions.co.uk Twitter: NEC_Display_EU

ONELAN ONELAN has launched its new System-on-Chip (SOC) software solution enabling its software to be installed directly onto either a Samsung Smart Signage display or LG’s webOS platform. While the traditional Net-Top-Box will still offer enhanced functionality, the SOC solution facilitates direct integration with Samsung and LG’s displays making installation simpler, with no external player and reduced cabling. In addition, the total cost of ownership for the end user can be reduced, making it a more attractive proposition in some installations. T. +44 (0)1491 411 400 E. sales@onelan.com www.onelan.com Twitter: onelan_ltd

products

SELECTION Bright Goods A new catalogue has been published by Bright Goods — the acclaimed brand of vintagestyle, filament retrofit LED lamps. The 28-page, full colour catalogue features newly released lamps, beautiful LED installations and an enviable client list including Burger and Lobster, DF Mexico, Gourmet Burger Kitchen, Fresh Cosmetics, Fuller’s Pubs, Handmade Burger Company, Jamie’s Italian, Nando’s, Next and Pizza Express, to name a few. This is the second catalogue publication for Bright Goods since the brand launched at the Retail Design Expo 2015. Within a year, Bright Goods LED filament lamps can be seen up and down any high street in retail stores, restaurants, bars and pubs. T. +44 (0)1276 691 230 E: saima@ledecolights.com www.brightgoods.co.uk Twitter: Bright_Goods

Display Lighting North West jewellery emporium Mococo chose bespoke lighting from Display Lighting for its stores across the region. Mococo has opened a new store every year since 2006 and lighting is key to store design. One of the luminaires specified was the CSVL Tubelight Multi, which is manufactured with two 1.5W LED spotlights mounted at 90 degrees to each other so that it can be mounted into the corners of counters and circular showcases. T. +44 (0)161 207 3355 E. sales@display-lighting.com www.display-lighting.com Twitter: DisplayLighting

DENSO Auto-ID DENSO’s AT30Q scanner was recently introduced onto the market. The successful launch of the new scanner is based upon its outstanding operability, overwhelming scanning performance coupled with various scanning functions, and its robustness and durability. Furthermore, the latest DENSO scanner won the iF Design Award in the ‘Product’ category and convinced the judges with its aesthetics, practicability, usability and ergonomic design. The AT30Q scanner can be used independently at the POS, and has improved the operation time enormously by adopting a powerful reading algorithm that achieves ultra-high scanning speeds. T. +49 211 88252 450 E. info@densoautoid-eu.com www.denso-autoid-eu.com

GEZE UK Like all new supermarkets, Waitrose’s flagship store in Chester required good access. Architectural glazing specialist Glassolutions had created a unique curtain wall system that allows the glass facades to visually float. So when it came to the automatic doors for the Waitrose building, it needed a partner renowned for elegant, integrated solutions and GEZE UK fitted the bill perfectly. Creating the gateway between the canal district and Chester’s new Central Business Quarter, the Waitrose building, which has been commended at the 2015 WAN Metal in Architecture Award, features large expanses of glass with bronze cladding to reflect the site’s industrial heritage. Six sets of expansive glass sliding doors have been positioned on the upper and lower floors to provide convenient access and enhance sustainability through the creation of two atriums. T. +44 (0)1543 443 000 E. info.uk@geze.com www.geze.co.uk Twitter: @GEZE_UK

lighting

focuslighting on: Photography: James French

Body talk Nulty+ was responsible for the lighting scheme in The Body Studio at Selfridges London. The team created the store’s first all-LED scheme that complements the luxurious, feminine and uncluttered aesthetic of the interior design. Each individual retail pocket within the space needed its own identity and by using highly considered lighting details alongside different materials, Nulty+ was able to provide an individual mood and character for each space. Nulty+ created different lighting moods for daytime and night time, and also created the lighting scheme for the Hemsley + Hemsley cafe.

The power of lighting should never be underestimated. With LEDs now commonplace in lighting schemes, this month we focus on several energy efficient luminaires and schemes that help bring interiors to life while complementing the products on display.

www.nultylighting.co.uk

The task in hand Artemide’s La Petite table lamp is an archetypal lampshade balanced on a tilted stem. La Petite’s basic forms are elegantly combined to create an attractive geometric composition where the lamp’s body is counterbalanced by its shade. Artemide will shortly be launching wall and floorstanding versions.

www.artemide.com

Flexible friend Fagerhult is launching the Dino customisable light engine in August, designed by Stockholm-based architecture and design consultancy PetterssonRudberg. An energy efficient, LED-based light engine, Dino is available in two sizes and light outputs. Users can choose from nine different shades and covers, available in a wide range of fabrics and materials, or create their own unique design.

www.fagerhult.co.uk

lighting Image: Andy Tyler Photography

In control EAT has launched a new store concept designed by Afroditi Krassa, launching with its first store on Finsbury Pavement, London. Afroditi worked closely with Shoplight powered by SLE to deliver a fully controllable lighting solution. Using a DALI based system, Shoplight supplied its new Elys range of track spotlights to provide accent lighting to all key merchandise and brand message areas. These included the company’s standard CRI90 module versions alongside special food LED modules designed to highlight baked goods such as breads and pastries.

www.shoplight.lighting

Total solution Harvard’s EyeNut IoT-enabled lighting monitoring and management system is ideal for the retail sector, providing the ability to control multiple sites from one Graphic User Interface. The system is accessible from anywhere in the world and control strategies include daylight harvesting, PIR presence and absence and detection. Retailers can reconfigure lighting schedules for opening hours, including reduced hours for Sunday trading times for example. Users can upload their own floor plan via the mapping feature, allowing the ability to control and monitor individual light points.

www.harvardtechnology.com

Easily LED As part of a major upgrade of lighting within Nando’s restaurants, The Light Corporation specified Bright Goods’ LED filament lamps to replace the existing mix of halogen and tungsten filament lighting. Bright Goods supplied a selection of LED filament lamps from its wide range of popular shapes that include globes, squirrel cages, candles, long tubes and traditional GLS lamps. ‘As the sole lighting designer for Nando’s, and after having previously tried and tested a number of LED filament lamps, we made the decision to recommend Bright Goods’ products,’ says Darren Parnaby, project lighting designer at The Light Corporation. ‘The main reason for this is that the quality of the product is far greater than that of other manufacturers both in terms of light output, colour rendition and build quality.’

www.brightgoods.co.uk

Sporty number Swann Lighting was appointed to provide a lighting scheme for Decathlon’s Wandsworth store in the Southside Shopping centre. Syl-Line HSX units from Feilo Sylvania were installed to provide high performance light, reflecting the sports products on display. Showcasing cycling, running and outdoor equipment meant the quality of light on the shop floor had to be good, while minimising energy consumption and heat output. All lighting had to be quick and easy to install, use a trunking backbone system and have the option for integrated emergency lighting and DALI dimming. Swann Lighting installed a combination of Sylvania Syl-Line HSX units, mounted onto 3.4m Syl-Line trunking, and additional bespoke luminaires from Swann Lighting.

www.feilosylvania.com

Directory

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

Directory

Aluminium Fittings

Specialist Stockist of Aluminium Extrusions and Mild Steel Fittings for the shopfitting industry. Extensive stock held of: *Slotted uprights *Aluminium slatwall *Perimeter Sections *Corner sections *Design and bespoke service. T: 01273 582241 E: info@d-i-a.net W: www.d-i-a.net S. www.twitter.com/DesignsinAlumin

Bespoke Display

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

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

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

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

Design Consultancies

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

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

Design Consultancies

Aluminium Fittings

Bespoke Display

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aluminium Fittings

Bespoke Display

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

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

Bespoke Display

Brochure Holders

Design Consultancies

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

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

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

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

Balloons & Bunting

Bespoke Display

Climate Control

Display

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

KSF provides retail merchandising display solutions to retailers, brands and trade customers from CONCEPT to COMPLETION via our global supply chain (China/UK/East EU) to deliver LOWER total cost of ownership. YOU’VE TRIED THE REST; NOW PUT US TO THE TEST.

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

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

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

T: +44 (0)8450 944 699 E: ben.wang@ksf-global.com W: www.ksf-global.com S: www.twitter.com/KSFGlobal

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

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

Directory

Display

Are you looking to increase your product sales, re-brand or launch a new product? If you’re not already talking to us, you should. Our group offer an unprecedented level of experience coupled with a comprehensive range of products and services. Our aim is to make your products sell and your service the best on the market.

T: +44(0)113 265 0093 E: sales@concept-data.com W: www.concept-data.com S. www.twitter.com/GDProjects

Display

Internationally acclaimed, award winning unique magnetic wall system offers instant flexibility & creative choice to architects, interiors & store designers. Since launching the magnIQ system in 2006 the response has been quite phenomenal. To date the system has won 13 prestigious awards and is now internationally recognised justifying the many years Rare Basic spent on research and development. T +44 (0)20 8348 9888 E: mail@rarebasic.com W: www.rarebasic.com S: www.twitter.com/rarebasic

Display - Digital

Furniture

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

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

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

Furniture

Display

Display - Digital

GDP display, manufactures, delivers and installs world-class retail environments, store fixtures, displays and visual merchandising equipment. GDP is truly Global, through its activities in many parts of the world. We have supplied high-end displays and furniture to successful retail brands throughout Europe, North America, South Africa and South East Asia.

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

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

T: +44 (0)1582 433 771 E: info@gdprojects.eu W: www.gdprojects.eu S. www.twitter.com/GDProjects

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

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

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

Display

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

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

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

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

EPOS

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

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

Finishes

Display

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

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

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

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

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

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

Graphics

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

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

Graphics

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

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

Directory

Slatwall

Interactive Displays

Permanent POS

POP/POS

> In house design and manufacture of permanent displays > Powder coated steel, stainless steel, plastics and print used in any combination > Rapid prototyping and batch manufacture > Confidentiality assured > Let us help you improve your product sales` Find out why our customers keep returning for more………

T: 01482 345067 E: sales@jcrpos.co.uk W: www.jcrpos.co.uk S. @JCR_POS

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

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

Lighting

POP/POS

LED Solutions are a specialist LED lighting supplier who can offer you a wide variety of bespoke lighting solutions for the sign, shop fitting and display industries.

Custom made, 20mm deep LED Edge lit ‘Diamond’ light boxes, and 8mm deep ‘Garnet’ light panels for retail display, signage and advertising.

T: 0116 262 5933 E: sales@ledsolutions.co.uk W: www.ledsolutions.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/ LEDSolutionsUK

Literature Display Solutions

T: 0333 123 0345 E: Sales@ways2display.com W www.artillus.com Web: www.ways2display.com

POP/POS

POP UP

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

Retail Consultancy

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

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

Panache revised logo 1

DISPLAY

We specialise in Point of Sale (POS) and Point of Purchase (POP). We design, manufacture and fit retail fixtures and store displays and we’re good at it. For over 55 years Axiom has been designing and producing exciting and innovative retail displays for well known brands and retail groups. T: +44 (0)161 681 1371 E: info@axiom-displays.co.uk W: www.axiom-displays.co.uk

Since the ‘glam’ days of the 1970s, Panache Display has been a lead player in the global fashion business producing ever-changing looks to set its own trends in mannequin design and visual display - while establishing an enviable reputation for quality, as well as, creativity.

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

T: +44 (0) 20 8752 2520 E: info@panachedispay.co.uk W: www.panachedisplay.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/PANACHEDISPLAY

Maintenance

POP/POS

Slatwall

Specialist Stockist of Aluminium Extrusions and Mild Steel Fittings for the shopfitting industry.

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

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

DISPLAY

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

Extensive stock held of: *Slotted uprights *Aluminium slatwall *Perimeter Sections *Corner sections *Design and bespoke service. T: 01273 582241 E: info@d-i-a.net W: www.d-i-a.net S. www.twitter.com/DesignsinAlumin

VM - Training & Tools

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

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

Q&A

As the customer experience director at Fortnum & Mason, Zia Zareem-Slade is responsible for creating and delivering the ideal customer experience across all channels, carefully balancing the technical innovation demanded by modern shoppers around the world, while maintaining the tradition and heritage of Fortnum’s 309 year history. Here, she talks challenges, collaborations and what’s in the pipeline for Christmas. RF. What drew you to Fortnum & Mason? ZZS. The rich history, definitely, but also the fact that this incredible heritage brand recognises the need for excellent customer experience at board level too. There is a real desire to see innovation at Fortnum’s and all that coalesced into an opportunity for me that was too filled with potential to ignore. Tell us about your role as customer experience director RF. ZZS. Traditionally, the remit of a customer experience director is within digital only, but my role is far more varied. I work across all facets of the business, from packaging and hospitality to service, design and digital, and my responsibility is around safe-guarding the experience of Fortnum’s. I work to ensure that, however and wherever a customer, either new or existing, encounters us, they’re surprised and delighted.

RF. Fortnum & Mason relaunched its online platform just over a year ago. Are you (and your customers) happy with the performance of the site? ZZS. We’re delighted with the performance of the site. During the first week of its release alone total sales went up +30 per cent YOY. It’s now fully responsive and it’s great to see customers using this capability to fully engage with our products and services. We’ll carry on working to optimise the experience and make things even more colourful and engaging. RF. The 309 year old store recently collaborated on its windows for the very first time, to celebrate the release of Alice Through the Looking Glass. What was special about this project?

What challenges do you face in this position? RF. ZZS. Fortnum’s has been around for more than 300 years. The main challenge, and I should also say privilege, is working to secure the future of the business for another three centuries. People get upset when beloved cultural retail icons go to the wall, but the fact is these businesses did not survive because people were not shopping there. I have to work to ensure we’re more relevant, to more people, more of the time. RF. How have customer expectations changed in recent years and how do you go about meeting these in such an established heritage brand environment? ZZS. We all know that customers are increasingly time-poor and buying habits are progressing more and more towards online. So firstly, we have to make sure we’re creating beautiful products for customers at a price they are willing to pay. Secondly, we work hard to ensure that all customers have an amazing in-store experience. When people enter Fortnum’s in Piccadilly they have to feel like they have had a day that is out of the ordinary, whether that means being greeted by a Fortnum’s Red Coat or treated to a tea tasting on the shop floor. We are always striving to deliver a sense of pleasure for our customers and this is also replicated in our store in St Pancras, our bar in Heathrow T5 and on our online site. It’s all about a consistency of excellence at every moment a customer spends with us.

ZZS. Both Fortnum’s and Alice are representative of two deeply special pieces of British culture. So the chance to work collaboratively with such a highly creative, forward-looking brand, was a no-brainer. The result was a meeting of minds between Fortnum’s and the story of Alice that picked out passion points shared by both parties, from tea to time. It highlighted a mutual sense of whimsy and fantasy, and most importantly togetherness, creating a magical environment in store for family and friends to enjoy together. We had a lot of fun. RF. What are your priorities over the next few years? ZZS. The same as they’ve always been: to make the everyday special for our customers. The exciting challenge is finding new ways to do that. RF. Finally, can you tell us what Fortnum & Mason has in the pipeline for Christmas 2016? ZZS. We believe that the world today needs more kindness, so our campaign will focus on this concept. It’ll filter through activity that looks to inspire and entertain customers. I don’t want to give too much away now, but I can say that we’ll continue our fabulous partnership with SKATE at Somerset House and as a small tip off, if you’ve never had a glace clementine, you will this Christmas. Delicious.

DESIGN PROTOTYPING DEVELOPMENT PROJECT MANAGEMENT PRODUCTION ROLL-OUT INSTALLATION BRITISH MADE

0207 377 1776 | info@blacks-vm.com | www.blacks-vm.com |