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Features Regulars Staying grounded
Starbucks unveils its first Reserve Roastery and Tasting Room in Seattle, a fully immersive, sensory experience offering customers moments of discovery.
35 VM & Display Show 44 Summit round-up 7
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Leader
17-18 Window shopping Inspiring window displays from around the globe.
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25-32 Project Focus
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Glent: Patek Philippe: Starbucks
Diary
11-14 N ews
Top of the POPS Karl McKeever TV could do more to help fix UK retail, says Karl.
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branch 48 Bank design
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Opinion
Adrian Coe, director and sculptor at Universal Display and co-founder of Iconeme, believes now is a key time in the evolution of the mannequin.
Focus on: Surfaces & finishes
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Q&A
Mark Anderson, managing director of Virgin Holidays, discusses evolving the in-store customer experience and the importance of having high street presence.
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March ‘15 There have been plenty of significant events that have been captured in some truly inspirational window displays over the last few weeks, including Valentine’s Day, London Fashion Week, New York Fashion Week, Chinese New Year and the arrival of spring. From Harrods’ fairytale Cinderella windows to Eva Petric’s lace concept for Bergdorf Goodman on Fifth Avenue, these are definitely talking points for passers by. Turn to P17 for our pick of some of the latest window schemes. Speaking of visual merchandising and displays, the VM & Display Show is fast approaching and in this issue we bring you a preview. The exhibition will be celebrating its 25th year and returns with an expanded show, champagne bar and new feature areas. Bank branches have seen a revival in design in recent years. Like many retailers, banks are adapting their in-store experiences to make both online and high street work hand-in-hand and entice customers through their doors. It’s about a personal experience; one where barriers are lifted and a more home from home, uplifting environment is offered. Banks are looking to bring back the customer/bank manager relationship model, and are using technologies to deliver more remote services and exciting reasons to visit a branch. As Jen Blakeney, I-AM group director, says: ‘Digital efficiency will never replace the emotional impact of good customer service or sound personal advice. The challenge for banks is to harness the very best of the digital world and blend it with the warmth of human interaction. The most successful brands today identify the right blend of physical and digital for each stage of the customer journey.’
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diary
Sign & Digital UK NEC, Birmingham 24-26 March 2015 Sign & Digital UK will showcase the latest innovative products, technologies and services from across the sign, disply and print industry. There will be more than 180 leading suppliers exhibiting at the show. The event will be providing a range of free workshops and seminars. Update your skills and learn from expert speakers in the Business Theatre, Software Workshops from Corel, Adobe and SignLab, and joing ‘how to’ sessions in he Signmakers’ Workshop. There are many networking opportunities across the event to meet industry experts and make new business contacts. Signanddigital
www.signuk.com
APS Retail Lab Event Cheadle Heath, Cheshire 26 March 2015
VM & Display Show BDC, London 21-23 April 2015
Printeriors Cologne, Germany 18-22 May 2015
APS Group’s Retail Lab Event gives you the chance to interact with industry leaders and some of the latest retail technology. There will also be a presentation from the CEO from one of the most reputable, longstanding British high street retailers. He will be discussing the future of retail stores and the influence of technology.
2015 marks the 25th anniversary of the VM & Display Show, the longest running show for the VM and display industry, The show covers everything with visual merchandising and display form mannequins, print, Christmas decorations, display services, props, design, graphics, bust forms, turnkey service, POP, lighting, fabrics and everything in between.
Printeriors is designed to highlight the creative possibilities when combining print and interior design. Printeriors will be home to some of the industry’s most creative printers and manufacturers to allow interior designers, architects, buyers, hoteliers and creatives the opportunity to discover how easily print can be incorporated into interior design.
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Design Freedom through Emulation A challenging budget doesn’t have to limit your choice of materials, finishes or effects - discover Design Freedom with Novograf emulations. We can emulate bricks, wood, tiles (as shown) slate, marble - in fact, any hard or soft material you can think of. That’s because at Novograf we know anything imagined is possible. Novograf emulated materials look like the ‘real thing’ and they save money because they are designed for rapid installation. Our durable, semi-flexible, self-adhesive Lamigraf and Digigraf products can be easily customised to look like almost anything you can imagine.
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news
Selfridges introduces its International Lounge Selfridges has launched a new International Customer Services Lounge at its Oxford Street store. Relocating from the ground to the forth floor above the main store entrance and the iconic Queen of Time clock, the new space is triple the size of the previous lounge and a central part of Selfridges’ restoration. The space houses a series of halls, lounges, dedicated VIP areas, libraries, a theatre desk, Mac bar and Faith Room. A range of services are offered including currency exchange, cash withdrawals, tax refunds, coat check, theatre bookings
and a central information desk in a new luxurious environment. The design was created by Waldo Works. The space reinstates the architectural infrastructure by opening up windows and restoring the historical mouldings, referencing the opulent style of the store when it first opened in the 1900s. It demonstrates the retailer’s commitment to its international customers, providing a
Benefit relives the 1950s with Soho pop-up Benefit launched a 1950s pop-up beauty parlour at 26 Greek Street, Soho last month to promote its Roller Lash mascara. The Curl’s Best Friend curl and cocktail bar, which will run for a month, is spread across three floors and is dedicated to embracing the ‘curl’. Designed by creative design agency The Persuaders, the venue allows visitors
to relive 1950s beauty parlour indulgence and enjoy three theatrical floors of fun, glamour and pampering. On the ground floor there’s a bar serving cocktails and cupcakes. Guests can relax in Benefit’s lush vintage chairs for a gossip with the girls and try out the new Roller Lash mascara. Upstairs on the first floor is the beauty parlour and curl station. Floor two is
luxurious and comfortable environment. Waldo Works looked to the golden age of travel in the early 1900s when Selfridges opened, and the fashionable Palm Court restaurant that previously existed on the site of the store. This influenced the reinstatement of the historic Selfridges detailing and scale of the rooms, including huge areas of hand-painted glass and striking marble floors.
the secret floor; as night falls, the Noir Bar bar serves cocktails from 7pm. The transformation of the building has been quite phenomenal, from the old Bay of Bengal restaurant with its wonky floors and crumbling walls. The Persuaders designed bespoke furniture pieces, lighting and art installations as well as finding and renovating vintage furniture. ‘This project has been like a wonderful creative treat to work on. Bringing the brand to life in such a creative way is a pure joy and to see people’s amazed faces and positive reactions as they walk in is the best compliment,’ says creative director, Andy McDonald. The store is backed up by the Curl’s Best Friend by Benefit app where customers can book beauty services, reserve bar tables, share photos and browse live newsfeeds. For those outside of London, Benefit’s Curls Best Friend tour parlour will be hitting the road and travelling around from 17 April 2015.
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news
Second Superdrug Wellbeing concept store opens Superdrug has launched its second Wellbeing concept store in Watford, following the successful launch of the first store in Banbury last year. The newly designed 283 sq m store has been designed to ensure accessible healthcare on the local high street. It features two new consultation rooms, information touchscreens and a large pharmacy team to focus on customer service, advice and support. The concept store in Banbury represents the most diverse wellbeing product range of any Superdrug store, and boasts a private weight loss programme with LighterLife and a Marie Curie service partnership. Superdrug hopes to see similar success in the re-fitted Watford store.
Ted Baker implements beacon technology Ted Baker has implemented beacon technology in its Westfield White City store, enabling mannequins to communicate with customers via their smartphones. This is the first time this type of technology has been used in any Ted Baker retail space. To access the technology, customers can download the free Iconeme app to their iOS and Android device, which they can then use while shopping in store. To use the Iconeme app, a customer needs to be within a 50m range of the Bluetooth enabled mannequin, allowing them to receive a push notification. They can then access details about the clothes and accessories displayed, such as price
o1creative designs restaurants and bar for London’s new Sky Garden o1creative has designed the dining venues on the roof of London’s new Sky Garden at 20 Fenchurch Street. Occupying the top three floors, the destination venues — comprising Sky Pod Bar and restaurants Darwin Brasserie (pictured) and Fenchurch Seafood Bar & Grill — offer stunning vistas over some of the city’s architectural icons. rhubarb tasked o1creative to work closely with developers Land Securities and Canary Wharf Group to design, project manage and deliver inspiring, must-see culinary destinations. Visitors enter on level 35 to the main atrium area with landscaped gardens and the Sky Pod bar serving cocktails and canapés. As this area of Sky Garden is at the same ambient temperature as outside, give or take one or two degrees,
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the Sky Pod bar and surrounding sofa areas have been designed by o1creative with the changing seasons in mind, and with the idea of bringing the outdoors in. Inspired by the four seasons, in autumn and winter months guests can enjoy hot cocktails on sofas adorned with faux furs and cashmere blankets. Come spring and summer, discerning drinkers can soak up the sunshine in a tropical environment right in the heart of the city. The Sky Pod bar itself is a glowing mosaic and glass feature that compliments the surrounding gardens and architecture. It transforms from a bright daytime visitor attraction to a cool, contemporary and stylish destination in the evening. At Level 36, The Darwin Brasserie’s design focuses around a palette of natural, volcanic island-inspired colours mixed with organic references and forms. The concept provides a relaxing casual experience with natural finishes and a comfortable atmosphere. Upstairs on Level 37, The Fenchurch Seafood Bar and Grill boasts a design inspired by the
and links to purchase the items directly from Ted Baker’s website, or where they can be found in store. Shoppers can also see more detailed photos and descriptions of the products, plus save looks for later, share with friends and access additional offers and rewards. The beacon technology also works 24/7, so customers can use the app if they see a look they like in a shop window, even if the store is closed. ‘This type of technology is truly game changing, as for the first time it allows brands to communicate directly with shoppers while they browse, bridging the gap between off and online retail,’ explains Jonathan Berlin, co-founder and CEO of Iconeme.
surrounding cityscape. Features include the beautifully illuminated seafood and cocktail bar, leather banquette seating, and a unique private dining room for up to 16 guests featuring liquid crystal privacy glazing and discrete service and access for VIP guests. The palette is rich and dark with golden highlights and cream leather furnishings making this an extremely fashionable destination for the style hunter.
news
Heal’s to move premises from King’s Road
Luxury Living Group opens London flagship Italian furniture specialist Luxury Living Group has opened a new flagship at 20 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge. The interior design of the 500 sq m store further strengthens the Ango-Italian relationship. Luxury Living’s design team has worked with the existing Victorian architecture and given it an original Italian twist. For example, they’ve used emperador and botticino marble to create graphic patterns on the floor. Largescale cityscapes of Milan and Rome on the ground and basement levels further reinforce the brand’s Italian roots. The colour palette of the interior is based on tastefully neutral tones, ranging from ivory and champagne with touches of gold and satin finishes. This London opening brings the number of Luxury Living stores to nine, with a new opening in Miami plus locations in Paris, Milan, New York and Los Angeles.
As part of a new customer journey programme, Heal’s is developing a specialist showroom strategy that will commence in spring 2015 and see the move of its King’s Road store to a new West London location. The new site is The Queens Building, Westbourne Grove and will launch in the summer. Formerly an Art Deco cinema, Queens has been transformed by Derwent London into a new retail showroom and apartment building. In addition to this, Heal’s is investing in a new stateof-the-art website launching in April 2015. Together with a relaunched website, Heal’s Tottenham Court Road flagship store will continue to serve its customers while progressing with further in-store refurbishments. Recent improvements to the store include the introduction of its Designer Floor on level two which is now home to seven international brands, including Cassina, Ligne Roset, Vitra, Riva and Philippe Starck’s new collection, TOG, which is exclusive to Heal’s.
World Retail Congress location announced The Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria Rome is the location for the 2015 World Retail Congress, which takes place from 8-10 September. The event brings together leaders from across the retail industry, from the largest to the newest and fastest growing retailers. The Congress aims to provide a premium, exclusive and intimate setting in which senior retail executives can unite to be inspired by new innovations, share ideas and define the future of the industry. Retailing has never witnessed such a period of change and transformation as it embraces the realities of the digital world we all live in. The 2015 Congress programme therefore places the theme of ‘transformation’ at its heart, and with the help of leading retailers and industry experts will provide real insight into how retailers should evolve today, tomorrow and beyond. Visit www.worldretailcongress.com to find out more.
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news
Lema set to open on London’s Kings Road Furniture brand Lema is set to open its first company-owned flagship store this spring, located at 183 Kings Road, London. The Kings Road flagship store is designed by Piero Lissoni and has been conceived to stage the two main identities of the group, Lema Casa and Lema Contract. Spread over two floors and occupying an area of 400 sq m, the store embodies the elegant style and relaxing Mediterranean atmosphere that define this brand’s character. The ground floor, with large streetlevel windows overlooking the Kings Road, houses Lema Casa collections, showcasing the company’s philosophy, based on slow-living. The showroom display flows organically to the lower floor, where Lema Contract is located — a bespoke atelier for architects and interior designers, where a dedicated team is on hand to develop custom-made solutions for large-scale projects. A made-to-measure service, also encompassing the Lema Casa collections, is available to suit every need.
The London flagship store marks a significant international investment that follows other recent openings in New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Beijing, Taiwan and Melbourne. ‘London is a crucial location on the international market right now, with its concentration of key players — the contract market; the most influential architectural
practices working around the world; property developers involved in major projects. Our presence here represents a strategic investment for the Group, one that aims at increasing Lema’s partnerships on the international market and establishing the brand firmly on the international highend furniture scene,’ says Lema president, Angelo Meroni.
Tensator appoints new CEO
Shoppers Drug Mart completes beauty offering Designed as a prototype in 2012, Shoppers Drug Mart’s new Beauty Boutique concept in Canada is now complete. Tuxedo rethought the notion of consumer experience in the pharmacy’s beauty department and revisited the existing model within a controlled environment, focusing on architectural design. Inspired by the Las Vegas effect of buying stimulation and online ease and freedom, Tuxedo wanted to elevate the store concept with impressive inspirational architecture and design glorifying the assortment and displays. One of the biggest successes lies in the immersive and intimate spaces that the boxes create for each brand. Through this design, brands are able to fully express their story, which resonate further with the consumer and increase sales.
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An architectural lighting signature was created for shoppers through unique shapes that guide the consumer across each portion and facilitate the shopping experience. The dermo-cosmetic section seduces the consumers with its own identity and numerous brands from France. At its heart, a diagnostic counter sits under an impressive light fitting. Technology and comfort merge together to increase testing pleasure and discovery of products adapted to their needs. In addition, Tuxedo saw the opportunity within technology and digital to bring Shoppers Drug Mart’s voice and brand forward. By creating uniformity through visuals and communicational coherence with multiple screens, the consumer perceives that they are living the beauty boutique experience and that brands are just one aspect of it.
Tensator Group has appointed a new CEO to place a greater emphasis on its technology-based solutions for retail, transport, finance, healthcare and the public sector. Ben Gale is the former vice president of payments, loyalty and insights provider The Logic Group. The repositioning of the group, which is owned by The Riverside Company, comes as solutions such as the Tensator Virtual Assistant and suite of Virtual Queuing options continue to enjoy international sales success, contributing towards a predicted 20 per cent sales growth in 2015. ‘It’s fair to say that Tensator has had a longstanding reputation as ‘the barrier people’, but times have changed. Whilst the Tensabarrier will always be part of our core offering, we know that our clients want technologyled solutions that offer greater insights and benefits for their own customers,’ says Gale.
JOHN LEWIS
CHARLES TYRWHITT
M&S
BANANA REPUBLIC
HACKETT
ANYA HINDMARCH
ANYA HINDMARCH
JAEGER
Retail concepts. Window designs. Instore environments. Prototyping. Prop sourcing. Global production. Logistics. Distribution. Installation.
harlequin-design.com twitter.com/HarlequinLondon
facebook.com/harlequindesignlondon +44(0)20 7253 6238 Harlequin Design (London) Ltd. 4th Floor 26/27 Great Sutton Street, London EC1V 0DS
Window shopping
Window shopping Inspiring window displays from around the globe
Harrods Global Display installed new window displays for Harrods inspired by the form of its Etch mannequins, for London Fashion Week. Combined with distinctive flower forms to represent the uplifting and renewal of a spring display, the Etch form is an integrated element, where traditional mannequins with their solidity and mass would detract from the distinctive and delicate atmosphere that has been achieved. The unique mesh texture of Etch interplays with the subtle pastel lighting, producing layers of intricate shadows that add an extra dimension to the installation. Cinderella has arrived at Harrods in celebration of the new Disney film, thanks to remodelled mannequins by Global Display. Six scenes from the film have been recreated in the Brompton Road windows, bringing to life Cinderella’s magical journey of courage and kindness.
Saks Saks on Fifth Avenue, New York painted the town red in celebration of Chinese New Year. The colour red in Chinese culture signifies good fortune.
Prada The Corners window design concept by Martino Gamper in collaboration with Prada pays homage to the humble corner. The design draws its inspiration from perspective, flagments and contrasts between natural materials. These elements are enhanced by the simplicity of a corner, which is a common thread for all the displays. Corners is a space within a space, making each display a unique story designed to evolve with the seasons.
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Window shopping
Bergdorf Goodman Bergdorf Goodman’s Fifth Avenue windows for New York Fashion Week featured an installation by Vienna-based artist Eva Petric. The work consists of large pieces of lace that create intricate yet lush environments. The title of the work is personal UNIVERSEs, and serves as a backdrop for fashion with a romantic/boho/70s slant.
Colette Coach collaborated with artist Gary Baseman and several artisans to create the Coach spring/summer RTW 2015 window at Colette in Paris. The window concept transforms Baseman’s drawings into 3D works of art. His concept visualised an artfully embroidered Shrine of Le Fauvre/ Buster sculpted in chrome standing against an embroidered largescale banner of another of Baseman’s characters for Coach against a pink velvet curtain. Blindfolded mannequins in Coach’s Spring 15 RTW and bags stand around the shrine further emphasising the narrative in place.
Miss Selfridge Lucky Fox transformed Miss Selfridge’s Oxford Street windows into a monochrome gallery to display the fashion retailer’s transitional spring collection. The windows feature a mixture of wood, metal and acrylic suspended picture frames, all finished in black or white high gloss. Handmade black neon words, LED light strips and hanging acrylic words are also used to bring light and variation to the design.
Bentalls Bentalls’ romantic theme for Valentine’s Day included a floral backdrop and feature shelf unit that were produced in-house. The scheme was carried through the store with hanging hearts in the floral print and shades of pink.
Ted Baker Elemental Design created Ted Baker’s ‘chemistry of romance’ windows for Valentine’s Day. With the playful campaign tagline ‘A Bit of What You Fancy’, the retro-themed windows featured lenticular prints of a couple gazing lovingly at each other. As viewers walked past, the lovers’ cheeks turned from pale into a full blush. A neon pink glow behind the backdrop added drama, and new season accessories were showcased on brightly coloured hexagonal plinths between the bottles of Passion Potion and Blush Brew.
See more window installations on the blog:
www.retail-focus.co.uk/blog 18
POP
p o t POPS e h t f o
Company: Creative Instore Solutions
Client: PepsiCo Australia & New Zealand (ANZ)
Display Title: Doritos Mexican Fiesta
Sector: Grocery
Location: Independent retailers
The brief: The aim was to create an occasion in store, based on shopper insights around the impulse nature of snacks linking to social sharing occasions. This, when coupled with the popularity of Mexican cuisine, lead to the development of the Mexican Fiesta concept. The key was to engage the shopper and create a true meal solution with all adjacency products within arm’s reach to increase the retailer’s basket size.
The result: An iconic point of purchase cart that evokes the culture of Mexico while showcasing the Doritos brand. The off location placement of the Doritos product in the fresh food aisle is designed to create an occasion around a big night, e.g. Nacho Night for shoppers. It allows the rack to generate impulse sales with associated fresh food products such as avocados and tomatoes, leveraging the Mexican fiesta theme whilst showcasing Doritos as the hero product. The Doritos Cart concept won Gold at the POPAI ANZ Marketing at Retail Awards 2014 in the Short Run Category.
www.creativeinstore.co.uk
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...TO MAKE A RETAIL FABRIC LIGHTBOX 22
Q & A column Karl’s
Karl McKeever TV could do more to help fix UK retail The Fixer TV show, where I help Alex Polizzi to fix struggling family businesses, has once again come to a close for the year. I have given advice on many TV programmes over the years, but in each series of The Fixer I enjoy the close involvement with real businesses, where the emphasis is as much about real life business assistance and tangible results as it is about viewing figures. In spite of their obvious benefits to business, reality TV shows have always been in the firing line for criticism, as at their core they cover peoples’ lives and challenges and inevitably capture individuals’ successes as well as failings. I think from a business angle though, these shows have a lot to offer the companies taking part and the viewing public — even if for the latter, they are just taking bite size pieces of best practice. In The Fixer, like many other business improvement shows, we have only been helping businesses that are struggling; imagine though if we were to help to find, nurture and further build an already successful business. How great would it be if we could use a TV show to create a future high street national treasure? The popular zeitgeist at the moment seems to be about pitching one business, craftsman, artist etc. against the other. Think The Pitch in the US or The Great Interior Design Challenge and Portrait Artist Of The Year in the UK, where participants take a brief and apply their craft/strategy. We could take a proven format like this and pitch three small but successful retail start-up businesses against one another. Dragons’ Den this would not be, but a process where businesses would initially pitch their growth idea, concept and action plan to win one of three places on the show. Once in the show, they would trade for a set period with staged challenges with the help of a panel of expert advisors — marketing, financial and management experts. The winner by public or panel vote could win a year’s support of Government grant money or the like, to provide ongoing expert guidance and establish successful habits for the business to ensure that it goes on to be the success it should be. All three retailers would benefit hugely from the ongoing publicity and probably build brand evangelists and revenue along the way. In many walks of business life, there are surges of small
Karl McKeever is creative director of visual merchandising and brand delivery consultancy Visual Thinking.
businesses being established, with no shortage of fledgling entrepreneurs that want to throw themselves and their exciting business concepts into the market. A Government package of support for expert consultancy, channelled into some of these winning ideas and businesses, will minimise the percentage of failure. Perhaps this funding could even come from some of the now publicly owned banks? By setting these businesses up not to fail, taking their business plans and ideas and putting them to scrutiny, I believe that retail success would be the outcome. A programme like this would be beneficial in so many ways. For example, David Cameron wants Britain to be the centre of excellence for dementia care, as he knows it’s going to make more money for the country in the long run. Creating what could be another stellar retail brand for the UK could also create jobs, tax revenue and perhaps even export opportunities and increased manufacturing. We could create other great brands like White Stuff, Joules or The White Company and unlock many more benefits across the country for shoppers, store staff and their many suppliers alike. We need to celebrate and support great ideas and innovation more, and a show like this would demonstrate how the seed of a great idea could be nurtured to help regenerate the high street. The UK may be coming out of the recession with bigger and stronger brands, but are they that innovative and creative? Beyond the use of digital technology and improvements in customer service initiatives and cohesion in the context of ominichannel, we have yet to see flourishing innovation in new retail experiences that were abundant before the downturn. Whilst a programme of this type would have TV appeal with jeopardy, human emotion and the all crucial journey, it would also have a tangible return — perhaps one new successful high street retailer for each season that the show runs. The Government’s Growth Accelerator programme has worked wonders for UK high growth businesses, and I think that what I’m suggesting could be as valuable, as whilst it will work on a smaller scale the learnings for other businesses will have enormous reach through the channel of popular TV. This would not be an ill-conceived investment like say (in my opinion) the Portas Pilot towns, this would be an outcomedriven innovation and investment vehicle for the good of retailers, their supply chains and the UK high street. If you’d like to see what happened behind the scenes of this season’s The Fixer, visit: http://bit.ly/1JLch4H
Email Karl at karl@retailfocus.co www.visualthinking.co.uk
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Make a big impression on the high street Register today for free entry Don’t be left behind and stay ahead of your competition. For 25 years the VM and Display Show has helped retailers create the most inspiring and creative displays the UK has ever seen. 21st to 23rd April 2015 at the Business Design Centre London Register at: www.vmanddisplay.com Call: 01945 420 068 Email: enquiries@rvmww.com
Whether you are a retailer, designer, in the leisure and entertainment industry or in fact use visual merchandising to promote your products or services in any way, this show is a must visit for everyone involved. More mannequin, print, prop, display and Christmas suppliers than any other UK show, alongside many POP, designers and creative companies.
project focus
GLENT SHOES Calle de Jorge Juan, Madrid Design: CuldeSac Opening date: December 2014 Store size: 60 sq m
Design studio CuldeSac has completed the concept and development of Glent Shoe’s Madrid store, inviting customers to enjoy a unique buying experience that combines technology and craftsmanship. CuldeSac produced a warm, elegant and masculine space that faithfully reflects the values of quality, craftsmanship and innovation. CuldeSac has optimised and enhanced the profitability of a small 60 sq m space by transforming it into the ideal setting for stylishness and custom making, which constitutes the essence of Glent Shoes — from 3D measuring of the feet to the choice of every detail and finish of the design. The brief involved combining a masculine feeling in a warm atmosphere. ‘This shop was not big and the challenge was to
create all the different zones without closing too much of the space. Therefore, we could achieve the needed intimacy through a nice open space,’ explains Pepe Garcia, partner and creative director at CuldeSac. The team has managed to convey the brand’s personality through the use of materials such as wood, leather and metal, combined with an efficient distribution that guides the customer through the different areas and moments of the purchase. At the same time, the space appears to be almost monochrome so that the shoes on display are highlighted in contrast. The buying experience developed by CuldeSac allows for different routes through the store, adapting to every person’s needs and time. During a first visit, the exact measurements of each foot
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project focus
are obtained using the store’s 3D digitiser. Once Glent’s experts have identified the most appropriate foot size and shape, the customer designs their own shoe by selecting the type of leather, sole, colour of the stitching and laces, and even whether to have their initials engraved or a name or message on the inside. Four weeks later, customers can collect from the store or have their pair of custom-made shoes delivered to their home. For future purchases, the initial scanning is not necessary as every customer’s foot measurements and shape are recorded on a database. ‘We played with the concept of contrast, the natural and more architectural elements, and the idea of warmth together with harder materials. Through the combination of materials we wanted to
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create the necessary rhythm to keep customers’ attention along the way,’ says Garcia. There were a few challenges with the store design, as Garcia explains: ‘For instance, the display system. We wanted to create something really functional but at the same time very aesthetic. The outer sunshades too, made from outdoor textile used in that kind of furniture. This shop has been thought about in every single detail.’ The first Glent Shoes store has been furnished by prestigious decorators such as Cassina, Joquer, Hay and Martínez-Medina, with luminaires from Flos, which provide functional perimeter lighting. This is the first of several stores scheduled for the retailer, with plans to open sites in other cities such as London and Paris.
Introducing Perspex速 Naturals Bringing Beauty to the Surface
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- Inspired by the simple beauty of nature - Textured surface with the aesthetic appeal of stone - 6 standard colours - Hard wearing & ideal for the retail environment For more information visit www.perspex.co.uk
Perspex速 is a registered trademark of Lucite International, a member of the Mitsubishi Rayon Group.
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PATEK PHILIPPE Bond Street, London Design: AW2 Opening date: December 2014 Store size: 420 sq m
The Patek Philippe London Salon opened its doors at No. 16 Bond Street after an extensive refurbishment and renovation programme that lasted nine months. The store has been expanded from 85 sq m to 420 sq m, making it the largest watch presence on Bond Street. The location was first opened under the Patek Philippe name in 1984 before being acquired by Patek Philippe and renovated in 1997. It was last renovated in 2006. Patek Philippe acquired the former Watches of Switzerland space next door in 2014, allowing for the expansion. According to Thierry Stern, president of Patek Philippe, ‘The London Bond Street Salon was acquired in 1997 at the time of my father’s presidency; it’s part of the historic and prestigious Patek Philippe addresses alongside the Rue du Rhône in Geneva and Place Vendôme in Paris. We have always wanted to expand and improve our presence on this iconic street and are happy that patience has finally paid off with this unique opportunity.’ There are only three Patek Philippe Salons. Geneva is the original, then there are Paris and London. ‘When we were asked to design the new Salon in London, it was quite a challenge as this had been something the client had been wanting, and waiting for, for years,’ explain Reda Amalou and Stéphanie Ledoux, directors of AW2, the design practice responsible for the redesign. ‘So, apart from the practical aspects in terms of number of pieces to be shown, such as sales desks, we were asked
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to create something unique that was both making references to the history of the brand — 175 years — and was clearly making a contemporary statement. In a way, we were asked to express in our architecture the process of using history and knowledge to look towards the future and innovation. The fact that the Salon opened on the 175th anniversary of the brand added that little extra pressure too!’ With a total of 21 display cases, the Salon carries the largest range of Patek Philippe watches in the UK, including all models from the current collection. This also includes Grand Complications and Haute Joaillerie models. The store is now split over ground and lower floors, with an appearance inspired by Art Deco. A mixture of materials have been used, ranging from leather and alabaster to sycamore and brass. Each element of the new design reinvents the codes of the original style into today’s world. In this way, AW2 has aimed to express the original values of the brand in the new salon, from heritage to innovation. ‘All materials were carefully chosen to form a subtle range of natural colours, from light beige to dark bronze. They are used to create a warm, delicate feel with a subdued sense of luxury, and to set off the furniture and all the decorative elements specially developed for Patek Philippe,’ explain Amalou and Ledoux. ‘The cream and coffee coloured stones used for the floor are echoed with the alabaster and bronze chandeliers on the ceilings, or the lamps on the sales tables.’ Speaking of chandeliers, an impressive 2.6 sq m one creates a main feature in the store. The Celestial Room is suitable for clients who want more discreet surroundings. The ground floor features a state-ofthe-art cutomer service centre, manned by two full-time trained watchmakers. ‘As you may imagine, to have the opportunity to go through a complete refurbishment while quadrupling the size of the premises is rare. This was a unique opportunity for us to create something new and different. So, if some of the colour codes are similar, everything designed and developed for the New Bond Street Salon is both new and unique. From the specially designed furniture, the choice of fabrics to the leather clad walls… This is a very special place that stands out,’ say the design duo.
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Call: 0845 680 7405 to advertise
Advert 86mm wide x 127mm deep
Dragon Display Systems
Designed and Manufactured in the UK
Manufacturers of flexible wall and centreshop hanging and shelving systems, particularly for clothingrelated trades: fashion, lingerie, outdoor, sportswear & urban.
www.dragondisplay.co.uk Display Systems Ltd
Tel 01952 290055 • Fax: 01952 290056 • sales@dragondisplay.co.uk
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STARBUCKS Pike Street, Seattle Design: Inhouse Opening date: December 2014 Store size: 1,393 sq m
Starbucks Coffee Company has unveiled its first Reserve Roastery and Tasting Room in the Capitol Hill neighbourhood of Seattle in the US, nine blocks away from its original store in Pike Place Market. The space is a fully immersive, sensory experience offering customers moments of discovery. This interactive environment is dedicated to roasting, coffee education and increasing availability of the company’s smalllot Reserve coffees; literally every Reserve coffee bean sold to customers will be roasted in this facility. The consolidation of small batch roasting will allow the company to expand its Reserve coffee line to 1,500 locations globally, as well as open at least 100 stores designed to highlight these rare coffees, exclusively starting in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco and Washington D.C. An additional Roastery is planned for Asia in 2016. ‘This is the moment of the next generation of Starbucks,’ explains Howard Schultz, chairman, president and chief executive office of Starbucks. ‘When we thought about building something that had not been created before, what we said to ouselves is let’s not play it safe, let’s really stretch ourselves beyond what people can imagine. Let’s create the Willy Wonka of coffee!’ Created to bring customers closer to coffee than ever before, each aspect of the Roastery was chosen with intention, handcrafted to reflect the journey of the coffee — from the moment the farmer picks the cherry to when it’s poured into the cup. The open space allows customers to explore their environment;
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moments of discovery that encourage curiosity. The Roastery offers uninterrupted views into the process of coffee roasting and brewing with the opportunity to learn directly from master roasters. Green coffee beans speed through clear tubes in the ceiling to one of two roasters in the centre of the building. Roasted beans are delivered to a cafe bar where a coffee master will handcraft the perfect beverage on a guest’s brew method of choice. The Roastery is housed in a building from the 1920s, which was originally a Packard car dealership and part of the historic Auto Row in Seattle. To honour the building’s history, the entire exterior was retained and the original interior pine ceiling and Terrazzo and concrete flooring were preserved. The building is constructed from reclaimed materials. As guests enter through the foyer they’re greeted by a whole bean coffee scooping table evoking the historical mercantile beginnings of the Starbucks Pike Place store. Decorative ceiling elements evoke dipped stirring sticks, and the Symphony copper coffee tubes are reminiscent of latte art. The copper cask shell at the centre of the Roastery contains all of the roasted Starbucks Reserve coffee silos. It’s designed to transform at night when lights from within will reveal a map of the world and its coffee growing regions on the surface. The silos over the main bar are in four different shapes, conveying the rarity and preciousness of the
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Starbucks Reserve coffee within. A Solari board with mechanical flaps displays what’s currently roasting and by whom in addition to buyer’s notes and stories about the origin of the bean. The store also features a Coffee Passion Projection Wall made of smart glass that’s visible from the inside and outside of the Roastery, with images of coffee at origin at Starbucks’ Hacienda Alsacia farm in Costa Rica. Liz Muller, vice president of creative and global design at Starbucks, cast a keen eye over the attention to detail within the new store. From the stitching on the leather handrail covers and hand-stained wood finishes throughout the 1,393 sq m building to the precise location of the two industrial roasting machines capable of handling more than half a ton of coffee per hour, every component of this new retail space has the discerning touch of Muller. ‘We’ve always wanted to create a working roastery connected to a cafe, where you take that and say let us really show you how coffee gets made. It had to be like an experience, like a stage, like a show.’ Muller’s childhood laid the foundations for her particular attention to detail. Growing up in Amsterdam, she discovered the value of craftsmaship from her parents. Her father was a fine cabinet maker and architect; her mother ran her own design and sewing school. ‘Perfection,’ says Muller. ‘I understood perfection from an early age and I’m still driven by it.’
URBAN VINTAGE RETAIL DISPLAY
56 PAGE CATALOGUE ON REQUEST The new Urban Vintage catalogue from Andy Thornton is out now. 56 pages of industrial-style retail display and visual merchandising products, contract furniture, decorative lighting and tin tiles. Send for your copy. Call: 01422 376000 Email: marketing@andythornton.com Online: andythornton.com
THE ORIGINAL
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS IN BUSINESS
AT-RetailFocus-2015.indd 1
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Little dog Meet little dog on stand E3 at the RVM show Business Design Centre 21st-23rd April 2015 info@panachedisplay.co.uk 020 8752 2520 panachedisplay.co.uk
Panache_Little Dog A4 Retail focus.V1
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VM + DISPLAY SHOW: 25 YEARS Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the VM & Display Show returns to the BDC in Islington this April, bringing a wealth of products to enrich the in-store experience.
Taking place from 21-23 April 2015 at the Business Design Centre in Islington, the 25th VM & Display Show covers everything within visual merchandising and display, including mannequins, print, Christmas decorations, display services, props, design, graphics, bust forms, turnkey services, POP, lighting, fabrics and everything in between. This year boasts a record number of companies represented, offering the very latest in products and ideas. The show has expanded into the upper gallery of the Business Design Centre, where you will find all the feature areas. Features for this year include the Underground Network, a platform for lesser known talent. This exciting new area was introduced at last year’s show, and will provide vibrant, off the wall, current talent to explore. An exciting new area for this year is the Designer Network, which is conveniently situated by the restaurant, where visitors will have the opportunity to meet a variety of designers. Not only does the show offer a great source of visual merchandising and display specialists, and the hard-to-find underground talent, the event also has the future of the industry
with the Graduate Challenge sponsored by Harrods. Visitors will be able to see this year’s finalists competing against each other and perhaps be able to grab themselves a graduate before someone else does. As this is the exhibition’s 25th birthday, there will be a free champagne bar everyday. The show is free to enter — visit www.vmanddisplay.com to register for your pass.
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show preview
Don’t miss...
Universal Display – Stand F5 The headliner on Universal Display’s stand will be the new Concept 2 range of female mannequins. Concept 2 is a continuation of the successful Concept range, adding more dynamic poses to the original collection. Feminine, stylish and flowing, the Concept 2 range functions beautifully in any attire, and the mannequin comes with a range of heads. The company will also be showing a selection of mannequins from mens ranges. Abstract mannequins will be shown with different head options such as the D1SC heads; small discs form together to create a stylish and eye-catching abstract head. Iconeme’s patent-pending beacon technology will also be showcased, to create a fully interactive experience.
www.universaldisplay.co.uk
Graphica Display – Stand B9 Graphica Display is a design-led, large format display printing and signage company producing anything from window decals and retail display through to hoardings, promotional printing and point of sale.
www.graphicadisplay.co.uk
Solus Lighting – Stand F4 Solus Lighting offers illuminated trees suitable for indoor and outdoor displays. Incorporating the latest LED technology, these trees look impressive in many environments and are ideal for commercial design projects and visual merchandising. Available in various sizes, these trees are offered with either autumn, white, variegated green or dark green foliage and will create an eye-catching display or backdrop to enhance many locations.
www.soluslighting.co.uk
Global Display – Stand D3 Global Display will be exhibiting its latest range of contemporary mannequins, visual merchandising, wigs and make-up for retail display. The company’s display figures combine fabric, rubber and copper finishes and will feature innovative wigs for dramatic visual impact. Its latest development of Eco Mannequin will showcase the latest in eco-friendly design, whilst the dramatic ETCH figure presents a contemporary interpretation of the mannequin form.
www.global-display.co 36
RETAIL DESIGN SHOPFIT INTERIORS MANNEQUINS STORE DEVELOPMENT RETAIL DISPLAY VISUAL MERCHANDISING
global-display.co
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Don’t miss... The Retail Factory – Stand B1 With more than 20 years experience in the industry, The Retail Factory will be showcasing a range of retail supplies for shop interiors, from hangers, mannequins and busts through to display systems, POS and printed bags. The company can also create bespoke solutions built to any shape, size and colour.
www.theretailfactory.co.uk
Andy Thornton – Stand E9 This is the third consecutive year Andy Thornton will be exhibiting at the show, launching a wide selection of retail display products. The company, which celebrates 40 years in business in 2015, launched its first Urban Vintage range on its debut stand. This range of visual merchandising display products includes industrial-style shelving units, carts, trolleys, tables, cabinets, drawers and garment rails. Andy Thornton also manufactures bespoke fittings to order, as well as supplying industrial-style lighting, original shopfittings and decorative metal wall and ceiling tiles. Shown here is the Craftsman’s Console Table.
When and where Business Design Centre, Islington, London
www.andythornton.com Tuesday 21 April Wednesday 22 April Thursday 23 April
10am - 17.00 10am - 17.00 10am – 16.00
VMDisplayShow www.vmanddisplay.com
Applelec – Stand D9 Applelec will be demonstrating its LED Light Sheet. Manufactured in the UK to any bespoke shape or size, flat light panel LED Light Sheet can be integrated in retail, display and exhibition systems, interior and architectural design or used to illuminate decorative surfaces and materials. The product has previously been selected to bring light to Mulberry, Jimmy Choo and GAP.
www.applelec.co.uk
Think Ambient – Stand G9 To celebrate the show’s 25th anniversary, Think Ambient is offering visitors the chance to win 25 gift vouchers for £25. The company will be asking visitors to write their contact details on a Cling (one of its easy to use, printable materials) and stick it to the back wall of the stand. Think Ambient will be showcasing its range of printable materials that are widely used for innovative visuals and point of sale. All of the products are easy to apply and remove, repositionable and damage free.
www.thinkambient.co.uk 38
ILLUMINATING THE POSSIBILITIES
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Galeria Melissa, London. Photography by Melvyn Vincent
Visit us at stand D9
LED Light Sheet is manufactured in the UK by Applelec
www.ledlightsheet.co.uk
Visual Merchandiser offer a boutique style service where every one of our clients is treated with the utmost attention and respect. Our professional skillful team have a wealth of experience, giving us the ability to understand your bespoke requirements first time, without hesitation. We offer many services, all of which can support your visual goals and aspirations. We know what it means to stand back and smile!
A boutique style service 0844 800 9305 | info@visualmerchandiser.co.uk | visualmerchandiser.co.uk VISUAL MERCHANDISER UK PARTNER OF EURODISPLAY
products
VM + DISPLAY SHOW Harlequin Design - Stand B2a Founded in 2004, Harlequin Design has more than 10 years of experience in a range of retail and commercial services, from design to manufacture and installation, collaborating with brands to achieve exciting, fresh and unique results. With the mission to provide a 360 degree service in display design, its team of creatives provide clients with industry leading displays whatever the deadline, budget or physical scale. With its collection of internal resources in multi-scale printing, customisation and global manufacturing, Harlequin Design is able to create, produce and project manage the process with seamless ability and at competitive rates. T. +44 (0)20 7253 6238 E. jamesb@harlequin-design.com www.harlequin-design.com Twitter: HarlequinLondon
arken POP - Stand G8 arken POP specialises in the UK manufacture of customised graphic display products, including LED lightboxes, poster frames and free-standing signage, supplying retailers and third party shopfitting companies. At this year’s show the company will showcase its Purelite LED lightbox, demonstrating how the sleek product creates a stunning display, illuminating any poster image to great effect. arken POP also produces award-winning bespoke POP displays, supplying a wide range of brands in a variety of sectors. T. +44 (0)1638 565 656 E: info@arken-pop.com www.arken-pop.com
Rare Basic - Stand D4 With vision and passion, Rare Basic is renowned for innovative, creative and clever designs. The company’s product offering includes mannequins, digital LED retail lighting, the magnIQ magnetic patent wall system and many in-house designs. Rare Basic is also the UK distributor for IDW. The company offers two-three week lead time, 300+ poses and recyclable credentials. IDW supplies retailers such as Chanel, Louis Vuitton and many high street names. The best way to see what Rare Basic does is to visit its showroom in North London. T. +44 (0)20 8348 9888 E. mail@rarebasic.com www.rarebasic.com Twitter: RareBasic
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WBC - Stand E10 WBC is the UK and Ireland’s largest online trade supplier of gift packaging, bags for life and retail display. WBC manufactures bespoke and off-the-shelf solutions including POS, vintage props and fixtures. The company works alongside store designers, VMs and business owners to produce product lines that offer a onestop-shop for UK retailers. With an exclusive showcase of its new BRIX modular display system at the show, WBC has developed a range that marries contemporary style with total flexibility — perfect for pop ups, exhibition design and high street retailers. T. +44 (0)800 085 8595 E. sales@wbc.co.uk www.wbc.co.uk Twitter: wbc
products
vm + DISPLAY SHOW Universal Display - Stand F5 Visitors to the show will be able to view Universal Display’s Concept 2 collection of female mannequins. Concept 2 is a continuation of the successful Concept line, adding more dynamic poses to the original range. Feminine, stylish and flowing, the Concept 2 mannequins function beautifully in any attire and come with a range of heads. Universal will also be showing a selection of male mannequins. Abstract mannequins will also be shown with different head options such as the D1SC heads; small discs form together to create a stylish and eye-catching abstract head. Iconeme’s patent pending technology will also be showcased on the stand to create a fully interactive experience, T. +44 (0)20 8206 5010 E: info@universaldisplay.co.uk www.universaldisplay.co.uk Twitter: UDisplay
Applelec – Stand D9 Manufactured in the UK to any bespoke shape or size, Applelec’s flat light panel LED Light Sheet can be integrated in retail, display and exhibition systems, interior and architectural design or used to illuminate decorative surfaces and materials. Retailers such as Mulberry, Jimmy Choo and GAP have utilised the benefits of the LED Light Sheet. T. +44 (0)1274 774 477 E: sales@applelec.co.uk www.applelec.co.uk Twitter: Applelec
Global Display – Stand D3 Whether you’re working on a spectacular retail interior or a large scale rollout across multiple locations, Global Display can help. The company will be demonstrating several services at the show, including its latest range of contemporary mannequins, visual merchandising, wigs and make for retail display. The company will also showcase its Eco Mannequin and the dramatic ETCH figure (pictured below). T. +44 (0)1582 676 360 E. info@gdprojects.eu www.global-display.co Twitter: @Global_Display
Andy Thornton - Stand E9 The Adjustable Shoe Stand shown here is one of many items available in Andy Thornton’s Urban Vintage collection. The company will be launching many new products at the show, which is its third consecutive show. The Urban Vintage range of visual merchandising display products includes industrialstyle shelving units, carts, trolleys, tables, cabinets, drawers and garment rails. Andy Thornton also manufactures bespoke fittings to order, as well as supplying industrial-style lighting, original shopfittings and decorative metal wall and ceiling tiles. T. +44 (0)1422 376 000 E: email@andythornton.com www.andythornton.com Twitter: andythorntonltd
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Summit round-up
SUMMITROUND-UP Highlights from the Retail Shopfitting and Display Summit.
The Radisson Blu at Stansted Airport again played house to Forum Events’ annual Retail Shopfitting & Display Summit in February. The event is specifically organised for buyers, managers and directors who are directly responsible for the purchase of their retail organisation’s shopfitting products and services. The Summit’s proven format of pre-matched face-to-face meetings is beneficial by exclusively targeting only the most qualified buyers and bringing them together with suppliers who are pertinent to their needs. The Summit offers unparalleled networking
opportunities and a relaxed businesslike environment, as well as a comprehensive seminar programme running across the two days of the event. Claudio Wolfring, group design director at Arno GB, opened the event with his presentation ‘Retail Fireworks – how to ignite static retail environments’. The seminars covered a wide variety of topics exploring successful retail design; how technology and innovation is reinventing retail; brand delivery; sustainability; social media and the changing face of consumer communication.
Seminar highlights Mark Fanthorpe, founder of Umbrella Design, discussed the three essential elements of every successful retail design project – people, politics and process. Change is important, some might say essential, especially today. As consumers get greater control over purchasing, retail brands must innovate both form and function to remain relevant, exciting and stand out from the crowd. The thing is, driving innovation isn’t easy. Internal opposition to change is such that creativity and experimentation are often squashed long before they have the chance to take root and flower into full blown ideas. Typically it’s the result of natural forces that arise as a company grows — people, politics and process and the negative influence they exert on innovation. Something we had direct experience of during a recent project. We were brought in to help a major high street chain to innovate the way they present product to customers. The concept we proposed was simple, effective and quickly embraced at the highest level. Then it was handed over to the organisation to prototype and what could have taken six months became a very stressful, time-consuming and politically challenging 18-month journey.
Why does this happen? Getting something innovative through the door isn’t easy because it demands a change in the way things are done. People, by their very nature are change averse, but throw innovation into the mix of a busy department and defences go up very quickly. Political manoeuvrings begin and a once good idea is either rejected or
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moulded to fit what is already being done. The result is always the same — innovation death. Like people, processes are also vital to a business. Their purpose is to maintain forward momentum. The larger an organisation gets, the more essential they become. But, also like people, processes abhor change. They are, by their very nature, set in stone. There’s no room for innovation. The question is, when people, politics and processes get in the way of innovation who suffers? The brand or the consumer? The answer — almost always the brand. The customer simply moves on.
How to overcome the barriers to innovation Our experience has taught us a number of important lessons for overcoming the detrimental influence of people, process and politics.
1. Acknowledge the challenges people, politics and processes could create for your project. If you don’t they will find a way to derail it. When talking to different stakeholders within our client’s organisation, we realised what we were up against. We were amazed to find the default position was the project was destined to fail. After all, previous attempts at innovation had all failed, so why not this one?
2. Deal with these challenges at the brief creation stage. When putting your brief together think about how you want
to innovate and what you want that innovation to achieve. When you’re clear, consider how people, politics and process might get in your way and form strategies needed to navigate these barriers.
3. Have an unwavering belief in your idea and the energy, enthusiasm and ability to sell it internally. If you’re not passionate about your idea, you’ll lack the resolve needed to follow it through.
4. Gain sponsorship from the highest levels of your organisation. When you have the clout of a senior sponsor, pushing through barriers is that much easier.
5. Learn from an industry that’s made innovation a part of its DNA. The motor industry is always looking to the future and asking, ‘What will our customers want from our cars?’ To get to the answers, car companies have concept teams who exist outside the commercial business, whose job it is to always be innovating. True, many of these concept cars never see the light of day but many of the innovations that result from the development process are in the cars we drive today. Building a steering committee that can operate outside the commercial business and innovate freely may seem far-fetched but it’s already working in retail. Think The Avon Studio in Warsaw, Poland — the door-to-door cosmetics company’s first steps into physical retail. This is a project that was guided by a small breakaway team who was able to operate efficiently and most importantly prove the concept quickly.
Summit round-up
Steve Salt, senior business development consultant at Visual Thinking, discussed maximising retail success with targeted and integrated brand delivery.
How many times have we seen a product in a window but can’t find it in-store?
Layout planning Salt ran through a number of brands who are setting the benchmark when it comes to brand delivery.
1. John Lewis Christmas campaign — Consumers engaged with the window campaign. There was also an in-store concept area and a digital campaign including a range of promotional items. John Lewis’s Christmas campaign is a great example of integrated brand delivery, and the hero of the show was Monty the penguin.
2. O2’s Be More Dog concept — O2 implemented strong visual merchandising and product information in-store. It’s a great connected story, featuring a cat — known for being lethargic and disinterested — who makes a change and decides to be more dog, a species known for showing great enthusiasm. The thing is, through being more dog, people will use more technology and services.
3. Nespresso — Adverts featuring George Clooney. This campaign involved a great digital concept, wow factor in-store and great new product innovations.
4. M&M’s — This campaign included phenomenal exposure, including the M&M’s Leicester Square store, digital presence, vending machines and promotional products.
Retail space and layout 1. Think like a customer 2. Use space well 3. Front of shop — windows and wayfinding 4. Prime — first seen/best visual and good selling value 5. Secondary 6. Discovery 7. Service space — cash points, etc
Space and sightlines Height — where do your eyes go when shopping? Think about the key focal points.
Pete Doyle, founder and CEO of Social Retail, talked through the Maplin Electronics case study and how to be a social retailer.
Doyle discussed his work with Maplin Electronics, where he trained staff to tweet from the shop floor. A total of 700 people were trained to tweet, deeply embedding Maplin into the community. Maplin undertook a pilot scheme at its Rotheram store, and has gone from one central Twitter account to 217 accounts and a reach of 45
million. The social media project was rolled out to 20 stores last year, then extended to 200 stores before Christmas. It’s all about presenting products and promotions in an interesting way. Staff are by no means glued to their phones all day; there is a guideline of one tweet per store, per day with a minimum of two people in store trained to tweet. When staff tweet, characters start to come out, such as staff
1. Divide the retail space into clear product zones. 2. Consider space values — primary, secondary, etc. 3. Determine the best in-store locations for products. 4. Maximise additional product layout areas in-store. 5. Consider the customer journey.
Visual communication Research shows that 75 per cent of understanding comes from visual — we buy with our eyes. VM is about creating easy and inspiring shopping experiences. If you put too many messages out to the consumer, you’ll just confuse them. Create stand-out and comment attention. Use props within displays. For example, Harley Davison used a real motorbike in-store. Remember to keep it simple — less is more. Paul Smith had a window simply featuring a Paul Smith shirt and a bag of Cadbury’s buttons. A simple concept and a great talking point that got you thinking.
members posing with products and even the odd photo bomb here and there. Staff can’t simply tweet a picture of a product, they are encouraged to get inventive with their tweets. They aren’t allowed to use emotional hashtags, only their local town’s hashtag. The retailer then has an army of enthusiastic ambassadors. Doyle says we shouldn’t obsess about the amount of followers we have, but should do a courtesy reply to new followers to say thank you for following. If you want to introduce tweeting on the shopfloor then Doyle recommends organising a pilot scheme. Think twice, tweet once.
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opinion
THE EVOLUTION OF MANNEQUINS Adrian Coe, director and sculptor at Universal Display and co-founder of Iconeme, says now is a key time in the evolution of the mannequin. When I began sculpting mannequins for the retail industry more than 20 years ago, I could never have predicted that today I would be configuring my designs to include a piece of technology that would allow them to communicate directly with shoppers, via their mobile phones. This recent advancement, which allows retailers to transmit information about the clothes on display via beacon technology, further increases the importance of the mannequin’s role in enticing customers into a store. In fact, it is one of the most significant steps forward in mannequin design since these life-like forms were first used in window displays back in the 1930s. When the New York-based sculptor, Lester Gaba, created a life-like mannequin called Cynthia in 1932, which included ‘imperfections’ like freckles, it was ground-breaking at the time and signified the beginning of a new era for visual merchandising, where realistic mannequins were widely adopted by retailers. This trend continued, and it’s only in the last few years that there has really been a rapid decline in the use of, and demand for, realistic mannequins. Retailers are now commissioning sculptors, like myself, to create more aesthetically targeted forms, which allow the customer greater interpretation as to how the clothes might fit on themselves. For us at Universal Display and Iconeme, we are continually evolving and changing our designs to be at the forefront of these new trends. We produce ranges of mannequins each year, but our focus has sharpened to the retailers who now increasingly request bespoke designs. We know mannequins interact on a visceral level; the body language and pose can convey the attitude and ethos of a retailer like no other display form, and as such, the demand for a unique look is ever increasing.
Furthermore, as technology weaves its way into every industry, it’s no surprise that the retail sector is also experiencing this shift. One major change is that customers are now shopping in a different way — using their mobile devices while in store to check items, prices and other details as they browse. This is where the idea for beacon-enabled mannequins started. We wanted to allow retailers to engage with consumers directly as they shop in store, via the mannequins on display. By using the Iconeme app, customers can now receive information from mannequins in selected retailers, including clothing prices, where items can be found in store and offers. This is a big shift for retailers, as mannequins are now becoming interactive rather than passive displays, providing a bridge between the offline and online worlds. Mannequins can now ‘greet’ shoppers as they enter a store and provide them with nearly as much information about the looks on display as a sales assistant could. As the Internet of Things casts its influence in the retail world, it’s an exciting time and we believe that right now is a key moment in the evolution of the mannequin.
www.universaldisplay.co.uk www.iconeme.com
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Retail Focus Jan 13_Layout 1 17/01/2013 14:53 Page 1
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bank branch design
RISE IN INTEREST Rewind a few years and banks were purely transactional and functional. Today, branches understand that a customer’s experience of banking is just as valuable as when they go shopping for clothes or a new car. While much of day-to-day banking is being delivered via internet and mobile devices, the physical branch network still accounts for more than 50 per cent of overall sales. Many banks are looking to bring back the customer/bank manager relationship
model. They are using technologies to deliver more remote services and exciting reasons to visit a branch. ‘That said, branches must respond to the new customer expectations that have arisen from being able to bank online, which is much more about fitting into their lifestyles. It must become more agile, flexible, smaller and more welcoming — less intimidating,’ believes Dean Neill, production/pr manager at allen international. ‘In a similar way that boutique hotels have captured a loyal clientele through unique, approachable design and friendly atmosphere, branch environments must be comfortable and relaxing; banking is not an impulse purchase, it’s a considered one, and customers want to feel comfortable and that’s where physical staff play a key role in that as apposed to online banking,’ continues Neil. allen international launched next generation digital branches for State Bank of India’s sub-branch, sbiINTOUCH, as part of SBI’s programme to offer banking solutions to the growing mobile phone and internet savvy customer base. ‘sbiTOUCH branches are targeted at servicing the youth in the country; a digital demographic
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and one that expects financial services to provide solutions instantly. The newlylaunched branches provide instant account opening with personalised debit cards, instant loan approvals for car and home, remote expert advisors via video links and
From left to right: allen international launched next generation digital branches for State Bank of India’s sub-branch, sbiINTOUCH; Tensator says technology should be integrated into bank branches, not fought against; Masked in the grass at mBank are chargers for smartphones and tablets.
interactive walls and table displays.’ Jen Blakeney, I-AM group director, is of the same opinion that digital is the future of retail banking, but says in an increasingly digital world it’s crucial for banks to remember that their customers still want human interaction. ‘Digital efficiency will never replace the emotional impact of good customer service or sound personal advice. The challenge for banks is to harness the very best of the digital world and blend it with the warmth of human interaction,’ says Blakeney. ‘The impact of the smart phone on retail banking is also fundamental, and in time it will change completely how customers interact with their bank. It will become the primary device for transacting, browsing,
booking, interacting and keeping in contact with your bank. The role of the the smart phone will also have a major impact on bank branch design.’ With branch sizes and the numbers of staff both being decreased, and
transactions increasingly moving online or to self service, what remains of the human aspect of customer service – and customer experience – must be even better in order to retain customers and attract new ones. ‘Bank branches that were once designed as functional spaces in which to transact and sell have become engagement zones to connect on a human level and promote a bank’s more profitable products and services. Physical touch points that focus on face-to-face advice will need to become more inviting and welcoming, and the appropriate use of the latest technology within physical branches will enhance the customer experience,’ continues Blakeney. Ajay Joshi, head of media and technology solutions at Tensator Group, says technology should be integrated into bank branches, not fought against. ‘We have already witnessed the changing interior space of banks, developing from the austere faceless banks into places that are more welcoming, but there’s still more to be done. Banks must ensure their branches offer the same customer experience as their online channels.’ One way to adopt an omnichannel offering is to introduce an app that
bank branch design customers can use for online banking as well as interacting with the physical branch. Apps like Tensator Inline Mobile allow customers to reserve their place in a queue before they arrive. This means the customer doesn’t have to wait in a physical queue and the space within the branch that was designated to queuing can be repurposed. ‘The bank is in constant dialogue with the customer throughout their journey. An integrated approach like this is what makes new technology essential for bank branches rather than a hindrance, allowing banks to make the most of their interior spaces and better meet the needs of their customers,’ says Joshi. ‘The challenge financial institutions face today is how to transform their oldest channel and make it more effective in this new digital environment,’ says Jordi Perez, head of branch network transformation at
Main image: allen international designed The Lab (Learn About Banking) for Allied Irish Bank. Below: Restaurant banking concept at ChiantiBanca in Tuscany, designed by CREA International. Below right: I-AM’s concept for Odeabank in Istanbul features a transparent exterior and curved lines — welcoming and attention grabbing.
individual interviews are held. There is also a dedicated area to entertain children. They can solve the quiz from the money exchange knowledge, play with a mini ATM or simply colour pictures. Barclays is making the most of unused in-store spaces by offering them to entrepreneurs, social enterprises and community groups. The programme is called Hatch and the bank has partnered with charity 3Space to transform spaces throughout the UK. The first Hatch has just opened in Oxford, with three more planned in 2015. The Oxford Hatch is a converted bank vault, which is now equipped with a 3D printer and other workshop tools. Barclays staff are on hand to offer free support, including technology advice.
I-AM’s guide to maintaining the perfect blend between human and digital within a branch: 1. Mobile applications to locate the nearer branch and make an appointment. 2. Touch screens in the window to answer basic questions and browse 24/7. 3. Self-service lobbies open 24 hours a day for secure banking.
Wincor Nixdorf. ‘Branch transformation is a journey. For banks, it leads to operational improvement; for customers, an enhanced experience. To achieve this, banks need to evolve their physical operations from the branch network down to the in-branch experience.’ For Odeabank’s Istanbul flagship store, I-AM created a design that is both welcoming and attention grabbing. A range of digital tools — touch-tables, tablets, iPhones and interactive screens — are available in waiting lounges and entrance halls to welcome customers and facilitate engagement with the bank’s services. ARS Retail & Shopfitting, led by architect Katarzyna Domoslawska, has integrated technology within the store design for mBank in Manufaktura Mall in Lodz, Poland. The store design features a white colour scheme with accents of different
colours. It’s characterised by lightness, interactivity and a boutique feel. The ceiling is equipped with sensors and cameras so that mBank can monitor where customers frequently spend time to possibly modify the design or functionality of branches. At mBank, customers can use three 50in touch-screens, equipped with sensors, that recognise a person’s gender. This helps to personalise information on the display. Customers can also benefit from free wi-fi and masked in the grass are chargers for smartphones and tablets. Installed near the entrance is an interactive screen equipped with kinect technology, displaying relevant content to people passing by the screen. mBank also offers the option to video call with an employee of another branch of mBank in Poland. For the comfort of customers, a special room was created where video conferences and
4. Customer management system to fast-track customers to the right advisor or service. 5. Roaming staff with tablets for instant answers. 6. A paperless environment: no stacks of paper, leaflets or posters. 7. Video links to a range of specialist, remote advisors available 24/7. 8. Computer screens shared between staff and advisors – no hidden information. 9 Reactive promotional screens that respond to age and gender. 10. Service quality measured at departure.
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products
PROJECTS Rockfon Rockfon has worked closely with Paddy Power to help create an environment where customers can enjoy the best possible experience. Rockfon Color-all ceilings in Charcoal colourway were fitted in all of Paddy Power’s 55 new outlets. Color-all is available in 34 colours, giving architects and specifiers the opportunity to create inspirational interiors. Color-all can be fitted as either ceiling panels or as wall absorbers. The panels come in a number of sizes with a choice of exposed, semi-concealed or concealed edges. T. +44 (0)800 389 0314 E. info@rockfon.co.uk www.rockfon.co.uk
Shelfstore Independent toy shop Crocodile Toys has been a long-term customer of Shelfstore, choosing its bespoke shelving system to enhance the layout of its premises each year. The retailer needs to keep everything easily viewable and shown in a way that feels comfortable to the customer. Shelfstore matches the quality of the products and is a natural fit. The system is highly adaptable, allowing the retailer to add layers to the space and reconfigure the design easily when required. The shop is redesigned at least once a year, moving and shifting the existing system to match its requirements, with very little effort. T. +44 (0)1628 782 642 E: info@shelfstore.co.uk www.shelfstore.co.uk Twitter: Shelfstore
Doro Tape UK The use of a self-adhesive stencil masking film is an easy and dependable way of applying painted graphics to any surface. Yellowbox Solutions in Yeovil was asked to supply the stencil for painting a repeat pattern onto a cork board wall measuring 2.6m high x 7m long within the canteen of Preston Secondary School as part of a complete refurbishment. The company used the self-adhesive Aslan S41 stencil masking film supplied by Doro Tape UK. This is just the type of design ideas that can be applied to great effect in any retail environment, and Doro Tape has stencil masking films to suit almost any surface. T. +44 (0)1858 431 642 E. sales@dorotape.co.uk www.dorotape.co.uk Twitter: doro_tape
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Reggiani Lighting Dalziel & Pow has created an all-LED store experience at The White Company in Norwich, featuring LED luminaires from Reggiani. Fittings used comprise Unimosa LED downlights including 26W fittings and recessed 10W Low LED downlights in both fixed and adjustable versions; track-mounted adjustable DALI dimmable 26W LED Yori projectors with Reggiani’s IOS reflectors; 6W, 9W and 27W LED Linea Luce Slim Low and High luminaires for cove lighting in a range of lengths, and Reggiani’s new recessed Trybeca under the entrance canopy. T. +44 (0)20 8236 3000 E: sales@reggiani.co.uk www.reggiani.net Twitter: reggianilight
products
TECHNOLOGY Futura Retail Solutions Discount retailer This is it in the South West of England and a fast growing online business is the first to benefit from a new relationship between Futura Retail Systems and the Peoplevox warehouse management solution. Integration work by Futura using the Peoplevox API (Application Programing Interface) has created a seamless link between its leading retail management solution and the Peoplevox platform to provide This is it with live stock visibility wherever it resides in the business, together with fast and accurate fulfilment for its expanding ecommerce activities. Integration has improved information and management control, while intelligent multi-location stock management and automated fulfilment has increased speed, accuracy and reliability in the warehouse. T. +44 (0)1189 841 925 E. sales@futurauk.com www.futura4retail.co.uk Twitter: Futura_retail
One iota Superdry has installed fully transactional in-store iPads in all of its UK stores, with cloud-based multi-channel retail specialist One iota. The iPad-based solution comprises iPad minis which are integrated with bluetooth chip & pin payments and carried around the store by Superdry’s sales assistants, enabling them to increase sales anywhere in-store. Shoppers are assisted in buying items that may be out of stock, or from the extended lines now available in any store, for home delivery or collection at any of Superdry’s 86 UK stores. T. +44 (0)843 216 1010 E. enquiries@ itsoneiota.com www.itsoneiota.com Twitter: itsoneiota
NEC Display Solutions NEC Display Solutions offers the industry’s broadest range of LCD and LED displays, projection and videowall solutions. New 4K UHD resolution large format signage displays present content with super sharp life-like clarity to allow your brand to stand out in a media-rich environment. In partnership with Scala, context-aware and interactive retail signage solutions deliver high impact intelligent content helping to increase dwell time, deliver a personalised shopping experience, build brand loyalty and ultimately achieve sales uplift. T. +44 (0)870 120 1160 E. infomail@nec-displays.com www.nec-display-solutions.co.uk Twitter: NEC_Display_EU
ADI UK River Island has invested in LED technology for the first time with the installation of a large LED screen from industry specialist ADI.tv at its flagship Rotterdam store. The 12 sq m display is helping drive footfall and convey the fashion brand’s identity via high impact digital media. It allows River Island to communicate its latest campaigns and in-store offering in an innovative and attractive way, with the screen also providing opportunities to broadcast interactive and live content. River Island can engage customers before they enter the store, while also enhancing the aesthetic. The look and feel of the screen fits well with its identity as a contemporary high street retailer. T. +44 (0)800 592 346 E. info@adi.tv www.adi.tv Twitter: ADI_LED
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products
LIGHTING Concord Lighting Concord has introduced the Beacon XL, a spotlight with the power to provide up to 3,000 fixture lumens at only 40W. Retailers will benefit from the energy savings that LED technology provides, whilst also incorporating the flexibility of dimming and lowering maintenance costs compared to traditional CMI technology. Available in black and white versions to compliment the rest of the Beacon range, the Beacon XL can replace existing 35W CMI-T (HID) luminaires to provide significant energy savings. With a CRI figure of up to 97, the Beacon XL offers retail and display environments a high powered LED luminaire with great colour rendering. T. +44 (0)870 606 2030 E. info.uk@havells-sylvania.com www.concord-lighting.com Twitter: Concord_HS
Progress Lighting Progress Lighting introduces the Invisua Masterspot 2 Track. This fitting offers high lumen output (4,000lm), high CRI of 95 and a wide tunable white colour temperature range of 1,500K - 10,000K. For the first time a new era of total control and ease of installation have been combined to produce this highly versatile track-mounted fitting. T. +44 (0)1423 704 124 E. led@progresslighting.co.uk www.progresslighting.co.uk Twitter: progressled
Commercial Lighting
Atrium
Sovereign EcoBlade is a range of high performance LED uplighters available from Commercial Lighting, designed around the very latest in LED technology. They are available in a range of standard sizes with LED efficiency up to 130lm/W, making these high quality units ideal for most applications. The units are designed and manufactured in the UK using high purity extruded aluminium housings with an integral thermal management system for optimum performance and longevity. All versions are supplied with a high transmission Microprism diffuser to provide full protection to internal components. Wall-mounted, freestanding and pendant versions are available and can be finished in any BS/RAL colour.
Indendendent lighting distrubutor, Atrium has announced the launch of its updated online portal, offering a great resource and interactive destination for specifiers. The new site presents a contemporary showcase for Atrium’s case studies and its collection of products. The website was developed to deliver a more visual user experience, highlighting its portfolio of innovative lighting brands, which include Flos, LTS, Modular, Buschfeld and most recently, Grupo MCI and Sattler. Case studies cover retail, residential and commercial sectors within the UK.
T. +44 (0)1489 581 002 E. sales@commercial-lighting.co.uk www.commercial-lighting.co.uk Twitter: clslight
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T. +44 (0)20 7681 9933 E. sales@atrium.ltd.uk www.atrium.ltd.uk Twitter: Atrium_ltd
R_Focus_RH_Aleda_Hacel.qxp_Layout 1 18/02/2015 13:21 Page 1
Aleda Adjustable : LED
Refined yet Revolutionary Featuring a distinctive design, the Aleda Adjustable downlighter by Hacel adds an innovative dimension to accent lighting. Combining creativity with lighting class single point LED Modules, the luminaire, with a smooth and precise pan and tilt adjustment, hosts outstanding performance characteristics and energy efficiency. The Aleda is ideally suited to a wide range of applications, providing a lighting solution of the highest quality. Dynamic Design. Exceptional Engineering.
w w w. h a c e l . c o. u k Download our comprehensive catalogue showcasing the full product range
products
FLOORING + SURFACES 3M DI-NOC Architectural Finishes from 3M have been used to refurbish the bar counter in the new Guinness Dugout Bar at Thomond Park Stadium, Ireland. The finishes were chosen and installed by MSi Signs as a cost effective solution for transforming an ordinary bar counter into an extraordinary, aesthetically pleasing design aspect. DI-NOC Finishes in PS-504 Black and LE-702 Cream Leather compliment the dark, rich colours of the Guinness logo. The films were applied to the bar counter top and front by two trained MSi applicators over a period of three days, with no sanding down required. T. +44 (0)800 121 4739 E. commgraphics.uk@mmm.com www.3M.co.uk/innovativefinishes Twitter: @3M_Architecture
Armourcoat One of the highlights on Armourcoat’s stand at Retail Design Expo was its range of Timber-Effect panels cast from actual Douglas Fir timber planks. Two designs are available — original or rugged shown here — made from a polymer-modified gypsum resin mix. Available in four base colours in both smooth and textured finishes, the smooth panels can be enhanced once installed with EcoPearl waxes to create a further 16 colours. Timber-Effect panels have been creatively used to replace or match exotic timber such as Shou-Sugi-Ban Japanese charred planks or North American Mountain Pine Beetle blue-stain timber.
T. +44 (0)1732 460 668 E: sales@armourcoat.co.uk www.armourcoat.com Twitter: Armourcoat
Polyflor Expona luxury vinyl tiles from Polyflor have been used to create a sophisticated statement floor design at Harris + Hoole coffee shop in Slough. With unlimited design possibilities available from the Expona range, a combination of tiles in contrasting colours were chosen by interior and retail branding design consultancy Path Design of London to create a striking effect. Flooring from two collections within the Expona range were selected for use in this retail space; heavy duty commercial Expona Design PUR tiles for front of house and Expona Control PUR safety flooring for back of house. Individual designs and patterns can be easily created by simply laying different Expona luxury vinyl tiles next to each other, or Polyflor’s in-house design team can create even more complex bespoke flooring designs using water jet cutting technology. T. +44 (0)161 767 1111 E: info@polyflor.com www.polyflor.com Twitter: Polyflorltd
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Karndean Designflooring The Opus Enhance range of luxury vinyl flooring from Karndean Designflooring achieves a result of 40+ in the Pendulum Wet Test, the highest currently available. Ideal for use in a variety of commercial settings, the enhancement to the PU coating allows for added grip without compromising on aesthetics. The collection features the most popular designs from Karndean’s commercial Opus range. The six planks and two large format tiles ensure a wide spread of different colour palettes. T. +44 (0)1386 820 100 E. commercial@karndean.co.uk www.karndean.com Twitter: KarndeanComm
DESIGN LED CONTINUOUS VINYL FLOORING
A unique addition to the Expona Family Introducing the latest edition to the Expona family of floorcoverings, Expona Flow is a collection of 50 commercial vinyl sheet products encompassing authentically reproduced natural materials and innovative, eye catching designs. Contact us for your free copies of the new brochure and fully sampled presentation book.
POLYFLOR LTD. PO BOX 3 RADCLIFFE NEW RD WHITEFIELD MANCHESTER M45 7NR TEL: 0161 767 1122 FAX: 0161 767 1128 E-MAIL: INFO@POLYFLOR.COM WWW.POLYFLOR.COM
surfaces & finishes
focus on: Surfaces + finishes From the flooring and walls to worktops and display cases, surfaces and finishes can help add the finishing touches to a retail store and convey the quality of a brand. They can add texture, colour and interest to a space, engaging the customer with the retailer. We bring you a mix of surfaces and finishes this month, from acrylic to laminate and vinyl.
Bringing beauty to the surface Perspex Naturals is a new cast acrylic range from Perspex inspired by the simple beauty of nature, designed for retail and interior design applications. Perspex Naturals simulates the earthy tones and velvety texture of natural stone. It’s available in a collection of six colours in 3,050mm x 2,030mm size sheets in 3mm and 5mm thickness as standard. If you require something different, either a new colour or different thickness, Perspex offers a make-to-order service.
www.perspex.co.uk
Door to door Egger has extended its internal door size laminate range to offer clients an extremely durable and cost effective solution to veneers. There are now 90 ZOOM decors in the full range, comprising 45 woodgrains and 45 uni colours, with 44 decors readily available in the UK through a nationwide network of distributors. The new range includes all the best-selling decors for the door industry and also features six horizontal decors designed especially for doors and two decors that are new for 2015: H3450 ST36 White Fleetwood and H3451 ST36 Champagne Fleetwood.
www.egger.com
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surfaces & finishes
Endless possibilities Geaves has unveiled Wow! and aniline, the latest additions to the company’s SM’art range of coordinated products. The latest technology advances ensure that pattern is synchronised with the surface texture. SM’art’s range of coordinated products allow you to design any kind of environment for high-wear retail environments.
www.geaves.com
Wet your appetite Karndean Designflooring’s Opus Enhance range of vinyl flooring offers unprecedented slip resistance, achieving a result of 40+ in the Pendulum Wet Test, the highest currently available in the marketplace. The collection features the most popular designs from Karndean’s commercial Opus range. The six planks and two large format tiles ensure a wide spread of different colour palettes. From the striking black washed, woodgrain effect of Carbo, to the weathered wood appearance of Magna, these on-trend designs will add a contemporary twist to any project.
www.karndean.com
Weathered well Armourocoat introduced a new metal rust finish called Rusteel at Retail Design Expo. It offers an authentic rustic iron or patina effect, creating an aged, weather beaten metal surface. This time-worn finish, similar to weathering (or Corten) steel, is created from a water-based paint with metal particles that naturally tarnish when activated. A sealer coat is used once the desired effect is achieved and provides a further protective layer. The finish is available exclusively through the ArmourFX modular panel system.
www.armourcoat.com
Minimising waste Right Size Matters, developed by Avonite, is an acrylic sheet material available in a choice of thicknesses and sizes to offer cost engineering and minimal waste. For the ultimate in design flexibility, custom-sized sheets of 3mm, 6mm and 12mm solid surface material are available from 760mm to 1,524mm widths, and from 1,829mm to 5,182mm in length. This allows designers and contractors to order the dimensions that best fit the project, and with faster fabrication and fewer joints, wastage is reduced and cost and labour are minimised.
www.avonitesolidsurface.co.uk
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‘Smoke’ by Armourcoat Sculptural From a range of original seamless 3D wall surface designs www.sculptural.armourcoat.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 UK’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
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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
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.
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.
T, 020 3260 3888 E. info@axiseurope.com W.www.axiseurope.com/retail S. www.twitter.com/AxisEuropePlc
T: +44 (0)8450 944 699 E: ben.wang@ksf-global.com W: www.ksf-global.com S: www.twitter.com/KSFGlobal
Design Consultancies
H Squared Limited are display specialists in creating brand presence at the point of purchase. Through a holistic approach to the development of display... strategic led creative design and cost effective manufacture, supply and installation, H Squared are able to offer clients an experience to nurture an idea as well as the capability to realise and deliver these ideas. T: 01530 814200 E: studio@hsquared.co.uk W: www.hsquaredltd.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/HSquaredLtd
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.
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.
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 01892 890608 E: phil@spurcreative.co.uk W www.spurcreative.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/ spur_creative
T, +44 (0) 1179 725168 E. victoria@ignitiondg.com W. www.ignitiondg.com
Aluminium Fittings
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. T: 0 01422 310767 E: sales@wbelland.com W: www.wbelland.com
Balloons & Bunting
Bespoke Display
H Squared Limited are display specialists in creating brand presence at the point of purchase. Through a holistic approach to the development of display... strategic led creative design and cost effective manufacture, supply and installation, H Squared are able to offer clients an experience to nurture an idea as well as the capability to realise and deliver these ideas. T: 01530 814200 E: studio@hsquared.co.uk W: www.hsquaredltd.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/HSquaredLtd
Bespoke Display
Bespoke Display
Bespoke Display
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. T: 0 01422 310767 E: sales@wbelland.com W: www.wbelland.com
Design Consultancies
Design Consultancies
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) 1858 414275 E. hello@twovisual.co.uk W. www. twovisual.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/TWO_Visual
Bespoke Display
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
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.
With over 24 years experience and knowledge within the industry, we pride ourselves on offering a tailored service for retail solutions such as Mannequins, LED Lighting & magnIQ our patented magnetic wall system. We work with many different sectors, including; Designers, Stylists, Architects and Visual concept team buyers.
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: 0161 477 8501 E: info@ipos-design.co.uk W: www.ipos-design.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/iposdesign
T +44 (0)20 8348 9888 E: mail@rarebasic.com W: www.rarebasic.com S: www.twitter.com/rarebasic
T: +44 (0)1638 565656 E: info@arken-pop.com W: www.arken-pop.com
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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.
Spur Creative Workshop deliver unique visual merchandising solutions for retail brands. Boasting a wealth of experience in high quality prop making we create display concepts for window staging, POS and brand awareness campaigns.
T: +44 (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
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.
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.
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
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
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
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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
Interactive Displays
POP/POS
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.
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.
T: +44 (0) 1634 292 025 E: info@crystal-display.com W: www.crystal-display.com S. www.twitter.com/CrystalDisplays
Lighting
T, 01767 682756 E. sales@impulsepop.co.uk W.www.impulsepop.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/impulsepop
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.
We are IPOS. A creative design agency whose extensive and impressive client list speaks volumes for the professional services we offer. We design, produce and install all aspects of our client’s POS. From instore graphics, window vinyls and 3D bespoke window displays to full multi location campaign roll outs.
T: 0116 262 5933 E: sales@ledsolutions.co.uk W: www.ledsolutions.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/ LEDSolutionsUK
T: 0161 477 8501 E: info@ipos-design.co.uk W: www.ipos-design.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/iposdesign
POP/POS
Custom made, 20mm deep LED Edge lit ‘Diamond’ light boxes, and 8mm deep ‘Garnet’ light panels for retail display, signage and advertising.
T: 0333 123 0345 F: 0333 123 0445 E: Sales@ways2display.com W www.artillus.com
POP/POS
From small, lightweight point-of-sale display turntables for short term use, to larger turntables designed for durability and reliability over many years, Movetech UK has a turntable to meet your needs.
T: 01204 537680 E: display@movetechuk.com W:www.movetechuk.com S. www.twitter.com/movetechuk
POP Install
100% provides services in the UK & Europe covering: • • • • • •
Display Installation POS Updates & Maintenance Store Audits Transport & Warehousing Project Management Online Reporting
T: +44 (0)161 929 9599 E: dan.williams@100percentgroup.com W: www.100percentgroup.com S. www.twitter.com/ 100percentgroup
POP Install
Slatwall
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
Slatwall
We are the leading retail implementation agency with unrivalled expertise in Installation, Retail Audits, Merchandising and Field Marketing. If you think your campaigns might benefit from a complete service, you should talk to us.
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.
T: +44 (0) 1625 569 200 E: instore@momentuminstore.com W: www.momentuminstore.com S: www.twitter.com/momentuminstore
T. 01325 351 276 E. sales@microslat.com W. www.microslat.com S. www.twitter.com/MicroSlat
POP Install
Our aim is simple: To provide GOLD STANDARD Installation and Merchandising of Display Equipment at competitive prices.
T: 0161 941 2239 E: mike.kirchin@plan2install.co.uk W: www.plan2install.co.uk
VM
MTFX Winter Effects artificial display snow range includes all you need to give your displays the crispness of a winter setting or the chill of a frosty Christmas.
T: 01452 729903 E: info@mtfx.com W: www.mtfx.com
POP/POS
POP/POS
Retail Consultancy
VM - Training & Tools
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.
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.
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.
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)161 681 1371 E: info@axiom-displays.co.uk W: www.axiom-displays.co.uk
T 01892 890608 E: phil@spurcreative.co.uk W www.spurcreative.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/ spur_creative
T, +44 (0) 1858 414275 E. hello@twovisual.co.uk W. www. twovisual.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/TWO_Visual
T, +44 (0) 1858 414275 E. hello@twovisual.co.uk W. www. twovisual.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/TWO_Visual
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Q&A
Mark Anderson, managing director of Virgin Holidays, discusses his new role, evolving the in-store customer experience and the importance of having a high street presence. RF. What is your career background? MA. My journey to becoming the commercial customer champion I am today started in retail management with C&A, before a selection of senior positions with BAA saw me deliver the flagship terminal operation and lead onto a comprehensive review of customer experience. I joined Virgin Holidays in 2005 and since then have doubled our retail estate and achieved an 80 per cent increase in profit per customer, as well as driven an 18-point increase in customer recommendation over five years, making Virgin Holidays a top 10 UK company for customer service in the process. RF. Since becoming managing director in May 2014, how have you developed the business? MA. Whether it’s the above average NPS and staff engagement scores, or our profitability, we have lots to be proud of. But it’s my job to nurture a culture of continuous improvement and to constantly push the ways we’re improving the ‘what’ and ‘how’ for our customers. I’ve implemented a new company strategy designed to further improve our performance across those three key areas. Built around four pillars with a laser focus on our customers at its centre, it’s a five-year plan driven by effective leadership and an engaged team. RF. What plans do you have for the company moving forward? MA. You will see us focusing our efforts on playing to our strengths in core destinations and working closely to maximise synergies with our partners — including of course Virgin Atlantic — to create exciting differentiated products and experiences. I’m also simplifying how we operate and undertaking a programme of strategic investment to further reinforce our customer offer and high performance culture. RF. How do you plan to evolve the in-store experience? MA. Holidays are intangible so the travel in-store experience has to work even harder to ‘sell the dream’ and connect on an emotional level with customers. We’re proud of the way we’ve led our industry in innovating with layout, the in-store service offering and design, and you can expect more on that front — for instance, the roll-out during 2015 of eight lounge stores modelled on our popular v-room airport departure spaces. We’ll also aim to push technology further to help inspire our customers and bring the destinations we sell to life. In January we introduced Google Cardboard in 50 of our shops, and are looking at broadening that distribution, and other new platforms, as we explore ways to immerse our customers further.
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RF. Why is it still important for the business to have a presence on the high street? MA. Retail has been our fastest growing channel for a number of years, and between 2011 and 2013 we doubled our number of shops. It’s always been about responding to the feedback we’ve received from customers wanting to interact face-toface with our brand during the research and purchase phases. Holidays are a big financial commitment. People still want to take their time, talk through the options with an expert and get excited before buying. But our retail arm is part of a distribution jigsaw which, with our web, sales centre and trade channels, works as a whole to give our customers the maximum choice, as well as an overall coherent experience. RF. How is the travel industry changing to meet consumer needs both online and offline? MA. It is definitely developing ways to become more agile in responding to the demands of today’s consumers, looking at the models being developed by disruptive brands and asking what can be learnt from them. It’s also becoming more effective at understanding that consumers are chameleons now, who will shift focus and allegiance between brands, channels, preferences according to a myriad of influences, some of which are out of our control. It makes the need for us to truly understand what turns them on, and for there to be coherence and consistency throughout the customer journey, even more critical.