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!
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Features Regulars Material world
Levi’s has opened its Line 8 pop-up in Shoreditch, with a simple, minimalist and monochrome interior designed by FormRoom
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32 Sustainable design
Selfridges: Bright Old Things
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53 Retail Design Expo
Technology supplement
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Leader Diary
13-15 News
16-18 W indow shopping Inspiring window displays from around the globe.
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Top of the POPS
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Karl McKeever Let’s not discount the value of retail, says Karl.
24-30 Project Focus
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Levi’s: Oliver Spencer: Sisley
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Opinion
A greater focus is needed on quality installation and maintenance, says Colin Chapman, operations director at CJ Retail Solutions.
66 Focus on: Props
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Q&A
After working his way up the career ladder, Stuart Henry launched JUSTSO to concentrate on the luxury retail sector. He chats to us about his career and plans for the future.
62-65 Products Products and services for the retail industry.
www.retail-focus.co.uk
introducing
from Panache Display
Exclusive launch of Skye mannequin at Retail Design Expo stand no 32 info@panachedisplay.co.uk 020 8752 2520 panachedisplay.co.uk
leader
February ‘15 Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote for their favourite store design in the Retail Focus Store Concepts 2014 competition. We’re pleased to reveal the winning design is Warehouse on Oxford Street, London. Congratulations to Brown Studio who worked on the 232 sq m store concept, which draws inspiration from the converted warehouses of New York’s Meat Packing district and Soho. A walk round the shopping streets of London this month revealed some of the latest trends in visual merchandising. With spring just around the corner, flowers, foliage and bursts of colour featured heavily. You can see some of the latest window schemes on pages 16-18, with many more on our monthly windows blog at www.retail-focus.co.uk/blog. Next month will see the launch of Retail Design Expo, which takes place alongside sister exhibition Retail Business Technology Expo at Olympia, London. The combined forces of these shows offer an action-packed event under one roof, alongside comprehensive seminar schedules well worth taking a look at. In this issue’s technology supplement, we ask whether 2015 will be the year of the digital wallet, The concept of the digital wallet has attracted the interest of many payment processors, including big brand credit card firms like Visa and MasterCard as well as companies such as Apple and Isis. According to the Centre for Economic and Business Research (Cebr), 20 million adults will use their mobiles to pay for goods and services by the end of the decade, with the value of purchases tripling from current levels to 14.2bn in 2018. Whether 2015 will be the year of the digital wallet is debatable, but it will certainly be the most important year yet for this technology. Lyndsey Dennis Editor
Editor
Display Sales
Lyndsey Dennis e. lyndsey@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405
Lee Cullumbine e. lee@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405 f. +44 (0)871 528 8000
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Terry Clark e. terry@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405
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Retail Focus is published 12 times a year by Retail Focus Promotions Ltd, Yeomans, Bassetts Lane, Woodham Walter, Maldon, Essex, CM9 6RZ. No part of Retail Focus may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
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diary
Retail Design Expo Olympia, London 10-11 March 2015 A new event for all those responsible for retail design and marketing – retail designers, marketers, visual merchandisers, property, formats and operations teams, architects, shopfitters and suppliers. Co-located with Retail Business Technology Expo, it’s packed with market leading suppliers and thought-leading conference speakers from around the globe in one place, at one time, under one roof. Features include the Designer Pavilion, 50+ conference sessions, live demonstrations from VM specialists, unique labs revealing future trends and the Student Awards. RtlDesignExpo
www.retaildesignexpo.com
Retail Business Technology Expo Wearable Technology Show ExCel, London Olympia, London 10-11 March 2015 10-11 March 2015
GlobalShop Las Vegas, U.S. 24-26 March 2015
The Retail Business Technology Expo (RBTE) is an important event for European retail, hospitality and leisure operators and etailers, providing all the latest solutions available to help them grow their business, improve productivity and the customer experience. Includes a comprehensive seminar programme and demonstrations.
An annual event for retail design and shopper marketing, GlobalShop is divided into five pavilions: The Store Fixturing Show, The Visual Merchandising Show, Store Design and Operations, The Digital Store and At-Retail Marketplace. Includes an informative conference programme.
rbtexpo
This show brings you the latest innovations in wearables, augmented reality and IOT. A comprehensive conference enables delegates the opportunity to hear from some of the leading experts in wearable technology, view the latest product demonstrations from around the world and network with the industry. Wearabletecshow
www.retailbusinesstechnologyexpo.com
www.wearabletechnologyshow.net
GlobalShopShow
www.globalshop.org
Free registration now open www.retaildesignexpo.com Retail Focus 180mm x 30mm.indd 1
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Lego  by  FITCH
05/01/2015 12:01:13
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
retailTRUST Celebration
The iconic Old Billingsgate in London played host to a glittering array of celebrities and industry VIPs on 29 January, as the retail industry gathered for the annual retailTRUST Celebration. The 62nd event of its kind, 1,000 people attended the event, which raised an incredible £1.1 million for retailTRUST. Sponsored by American Express and Fransfield Properties, the event was attended by some of the biggest names in retail, including Arcadia boss Sir Philip Green and a line up celebrities such as E4 favourite and host of the Celebration, Rick Edwards, model turned lingerie entrepreneur Caprice and fashion designer Jeff Banks. Ex-House of Fraser chairman, Don McCarthy was awarded with the prestigious retailLEGEND award, in honour of his entrepreneurship in the retail industry and his dedication to the sector, and also for his relentless fundraising activities for charities such as the Royal Marsden Hospital, to which he has donated millions of pounds. Guests got the chance to donate to retailTRUST through a variety of fundraising activities. There was a tombola with goodies from brands including Sony and Paul Smith, before the everpopular Silent Auction and the Grand Auction. All of the £1.1 million proceeds will go to funding the trust’s vital work supporting those working in the retail sector and their dependents. Guests were treated to a champagne reception, dinner and live music from Scouting for Girls, rounded off by a DJ set by Pat Sharp. Richard Boland, chief executive of retailTRUST, says: ‘The annual retailTRUST Celebration is a key date in our fundraising calendar. Tonight has been a wonderful night for all involved, and we are delighted to have raised such an incredible amount of money, to continue supporting all 4.5 million people in our great industry. We just couldn’t do it without the generous support of those who attend our events.’
All images : Victoria Middleton Photography
RAISING THE ROOF retailTRUST raised £1.1 million at its Annual Celebration in London.
Above: E4’s Rick Edwards hosted the event. Below: The Marks & Spencer team. Bottom left: The American Express team, sponsors of the event.
retailTRUST is the leading charity that looks after the needs of all of the 4.5 million people in the UK who work in the retail industry and related sectors. The charity is sponsoring the launch of retailCURe, the very first Credit Union exclusively for the retail sector. It has raised more than £1 million in support from corporates in retail to start this worthwhile venture. retailTRUST also offers a range of services including free counselling, legal advice, debt advice, hardship grants, course funding and retirement housing throughout the UK. It offers Employee Assistance Programmes to almost one million workers in retail through its employers. It’s a comprehensive wellbeing and health package that helps employees deal with almost any problem. The charity was founded in 1832 and is proud to have Queen Elizabeth II as its patron.
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RETAIL DESIGN SHOPFIT INTERIORS MANNEQUINS STORE DEVELOPMENT RETAIL DISPLAY VISUAL MERCHANDISING
global-display.co
news
And the winner is.... Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote for their favourite store design in the Retail Focus Store Concepts 2014 competition. We’re pleased to reveal the winning design is Warehouse on Oxford Street, London. Opened in February 2014, the first Warehouse flagship allows the retailer to showcase the brand on a UK and world stage. Designed in partnership with Brown Studio, the 232 sq m store is spread across two levels and builds on the concept and tradition of Warehouse as an urban loft gallery space. The design draws inspiration from the converted warehouses of New York’s Meat Packing district and Soho, with the fabric of the building exposed with materials such as real brick, wood flooring and plaster treatments.
New spaces open at Dover Street Market A number of new spaces have opened at London’s Dover Street Market. The third floor welcomes a Thom Browne women’s space, while Molly Goddard joins the second floor. On the third floor, the new Dior space (pictured) has been designed especially for Dover Street Market and will feature a careful edit of Dior readyto-wear pieces designed by Raf Simons, starting with the Cruise 2015 collection. This space will also include key accessories, in particular the new Diorama and Be Dior bags. There’s also a new window by Elena Dawson and a basement event space by Bianca Chandon.
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news
In brief... Anthropologie has opened its seventh store in London, located in Marylebone. Comprising 325 sq m of space across two historical buildings, the store has been refurbished with inspiration from the past. A fitted factory window draws customers in while reclaimed wooden interiors join both period buildings together to make one new space. de Gruchy has unveiled a two year business development plan that could see an investment of up to £15m injected into St. Helier town centre in Jersey. The plans will include a complete transformation of the existing department store and the New Street side of the store will be redeveloped, creating 1,858 sq m of additional retail space over three floors.
Argos to open digital stores in Sainsbury’s supermarkets Argos and Sainbury’s have teamed up to open 10 new Argos digital stores within existing Sainsbury’s supermarkets. This will bring extra choice and convenience to Sainsbury’s and Argos customers who will have access to the combined ranges in the convenience of a supermarket. These new format Argos digital stores will provide customers with a
choice of more than 20,000 non-grocery products which they can either buy instantly in-store via tablets or reserve online for easy collection within hours, the same or the following day. An extended range of around 40,000 products can also be ordered in store for home delivery. The Argos digital stores in Sainsbury’s will range in size from around 92 sq m to more than 464 sq m.
Panache Display launches wig department Panache Display has launched a new department to produce wigs for the retail mannequin industry. A team of highly experienced and talented wig makers are capable of producing large quantities for multiple stores or one-off pieces. Each wig is manufactured using traditional methods, bespoke to the client’s style and colour. A vast selection of hair colours can be blended to an exact specification, and the wigs can be manufactured as part of a complete mannequin renovation. The department is situated at Panache Display’s headquarters in Park Royal, London.
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Happy Socks joins Seven Dials Swedish accessories brand Happy Socks has made its UK retail debut in Seven Dials. The brand has opened its 55.7 sq m store at 62 Neal Street. This is the company’s first London flagship store following on from the recent New York flagship opening. Happy Socks has more than 100 points of sale around the UK and Ireland, including stockists such as Selfridges, John Lewis, Urban Outfitters and Tessuti. The new London flagship will carry all Happy Socks collections and act as a one-stop shop for socks and underwear for men and women, socks for kids, alongside the limited edition Happy Socks X Snoop Dogg collaboration and artworks.
sponsored column
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Foyles planned for Grand Central Birmingham
Mark Fanthorpe, founder of Umbrella Design, shares his insight on the retail market
Why 2015 should be your year of kick ass retail Foyles Westfield Stratford
Foyles is set to open a new branch at Grand Central Birmingham, the city’s new £150m premium retail destination scheduled to open in September 2015. Foyles Grand Central Birmingham will be the second bookshop outside of London to be opened by the family-owned business in recent years, following the opening of Foyles Bristol Cabot Circus in March 2011. The store will measure approximately 399 sq m and will be similar in size and style to existing Foyles branches in Westfield Stratford, London Waterloo Station and Royal Festival Hall.
Bura Nana designs new concept for Bubble&Stitch
Photography: Wouter van der Wolk
Bura Nana has worked on the concept for Amsterdam’s first 24/7 launderette smart concept store, Bubble&Stitch. This American concept has already been put into practice across the USA and some European countries, and is opening for the first time in The Netherlands. After registering online and downloading the application, the customer can simply use the service 24/7 to drop off laundry in one of the available clean boxes. A notification is given when the order is ready for collection. With a fresh colour palette, a grid of vintage hanging ball lamps and bold simple typography, the space retains a welcoming soft feeling reminiscent of vintage American launderette spaces.
As we head into the New Year, discovering the genuine health of high street retail isn’t easy. Hard stats are hard to come by and the media does its best to present a picture of an industry in a constant state of turmoil. What we do know is that more and more money is being spent online as consumers look for more efficient and effective ways of shopping. This is neither a good or a bad thing. It just is. There’s more channel choice and the consumer is exercising their freedom to choose. Rather than signalling the end, however, this throws down a challenge and more importantly highlights weaknesses high street retail has to fix. The challenge is not that people don’t want to shop. It’s that they have to be inspired to do so. What isn’t a good thing is how homogenised the high street has become. You can understand brands playing it safe during the recession. Making a statement can be both expensive and risky, even if it’s the right thing to do. However, the more things become the same, the less engaging they become. If the high street is going to become a destination once again, the time for safe is over. It’s now time to get out there and kick ass. A hum drum store guides you. It makes shopping easy. You find what you want and you leave. It doesn’t ask you to look at anything other than the things you want. Kick Ass Retail does the opposite. It doesn’t conform to the norm; it’s unexpected and it’s challenging. Some will love it and others will hate it, but most importantly they’ll have an opinion on it — it will become a talking point. Kick Ass Retail doesn’t sell, although sales can certainly be made. It’s an installation that makes you think more about the brand and your relationship with it, than the things you want to buy. Kick Ass Retail is subject to consistent change so that it never risks becoming a me too. This was once the remit of the flagship; to present a branded experience that was bigger, better and more interesting than their high street counterpart. It was a place to take risks, to experiment and to push the customer out of their comfort zone. Today, flagship stores retain some of that glamour but really they just focus on bigger. They are more or less the same as their high street brothers and sisters; you just get more of the same. I’m talking about the anti-flagship. It doesn’t have to be a big footprint; perhaps smaller would be better. But it’s a place where experimentation can go on. Think Dover Street Market. You may hate it or not even understand the edit but at least you will have an opinion and be inspired to explore the brands further, as your interest will have been aroused. A place that exists outside the commercial business, that offers something totally unique that will generate opinion. A place that people have to visit, just to see it. A true destination. Mark Fanthorpe is founder of Umbrella Design, a multidisciplinary retail design agency that helps brands achieve retail dominance. T. 020 7833 4032 www.umbrelladesign.co.uk
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Window shopping
Window Liberty Liberty’s latest windows have a clean, fresh and transparent focus. Reinventing the use of Liberty print, the windows are the first to use a seasonal Liberty interiors print — Faria Flowers. Within the displays, the print is deconstructed into fragile floral elements, emphasising the importance of capturing the month’s crisp, winter light. The windows feature the pick of the store’s womenswear, accessories and menswear collections, with whites and the pretty, floral, muted tones of light olives, pinks, pale yellows and mints filtering through. Vac bags were then used to suspend the best of its revitalising beauty products, creating the illusion of the items being frozen within the space.
shopping Inspiring window displays from around the globe
John Lewis Harlequin Design created the John Lewis sports inspired windows in conjunction with the #JLLiveBetter campaign. The company produced 16 windows across the UK featuring bespoke peg boards and plinths as well as a set of light boxes. These can be rearranged in accordance with the product displayed.
Fenwick Fenwick of Bond Street has launched the Here I Am year-long campaign inspired by the words that Jim Fenwick said after first arriving on Bond Street in 1891 to open his department store. The campaign will celebrate Fenwick’s individual story by taking customers through a journey of unexpected collaborations that will be infused through Fenwick’s products, events, services and windows. Artist Andrei Robu has illustrated the words Here I Am through a series of art installations in the retailer’s windows.
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Window shopping
w
DAKS Millington Associates has brought a slice of Sicily to DAKS’ Old Bond Street store. The idyllic inner-city scene features four mannequins dressed in DAKS’ spring/summer 2015 collection basking in the sun outside Caffè Sicilia. Sitting in pride of place is a Vespa. The scheme sits on top of traditional cobblestone flooring, while blossoming shrubbery, lemon trees and potted flowers frame the store’s curved front window.
Penhaligon As part of the London Design Festival in September 2014 and the R.I.B.A Regent Street Window Project, architect Al-Jawad Pike was paired with the prestigious perfume house Penhaligons to create this one-off shop window for its London flagship. Inspired by the history of perfume making and its origins in distillation and chemistry, this intricate construction of latticed 3D copper piping and glass flasks was reminiscent of the distillation apparatus that was used historically in perfume making, with each glass vessel containing the raw ingredients used in some of Penhaligons’ best-selling fragrances. Named Heritage, this design proved extremely successful for the brand and Penhaligons was keen for the scheme to roll out to all their stores in January 2015. PLANarama produced and installed 16 bespoke schemes across the globe.
ZARA Mannequins from Bonaveri’s Schlappi 2000 collection, available from UK distributor Blue Studio, grace the windows of Zara at its Milan flagship. Zara loves to play with these stylised mannequins and create new characters by adding wigs, lips, eyebrows and eyelashes according to the style it wants to achieve. Photo credit: Courtesy Departamento de Imagen y Decoración ZARA
Photo credit: Richard Davies
Sports Direct at Lillywhites PLANarama has turned Sports Direct’s USA Pro launch ‘Join our Movement’ advertisement into three-dimensional windows for its flagship store Lillywhites in Piccadilly, London. Printed concrete effect panels were applied to the walls and floor and 3D ‘Join our Movement’ lettering was mounted onto acrylic and hung from the ceiling. To replicate movement and create interest, flashing LED neon strips in purple, blue and pink were positioned around the cut-to-shape model.
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Window shopping
Printemps Printemps has introduced an accessories special event for this season. From Christian Louboutin shoes and Le Chapeau hats to Michael Kors and Jerome Dreyfuss bags, each of the 11 windows on Boulevard Haussmann represents one must-have accessory.
Mulberry Illustrator Harry Malt has again worked alongside Mulberry on its window displays. The windows focus on London signage and landmarks, including the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Gherkin, the Queen’s corgies, a Routemaster bus and rooks at the Tower of London. ‘The images are designed to tie in with Mulberry’s From England with Love concept; easily identifiable as British, high-end tempered with a dash of humour,’ explains Malt.
See more window installations on the blog:
www.retail-focus.co.uk/blog
Coach With the introduction of the neon product in store titled Cult of the Outrageous Atomic Carriage House, and to celebrate spring, the window design for Coach is an art installation that plays on the use of lit neon typography vs. glossy natural wood to create a window to stop passers by. The neon lights spell out words inspired by the set of the vibrant and youthful Spring ‘15 NYFW Coach fashion show that references Americana and road trips across the country. Pictured is the New York store.
Charles Tyrwhitt The new window campaign at Charles Tyrwhitt is eloquently called the Diamond Weave. Created by Harlequin Design, it’s about the bespoke weave of the shirts, which the company has translated into the window display in the form of an oversized floor vinyl pattern. The focus of the scheme is on the props and the colours.
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POP
p o t POPS e h t f o
Company: Pope Wainwright & Wykes
Client: Blackberry
Display title: BlackBerry Classic exclusive launch at Selfridges, London
Sector: Technology
Location: Selfridges, London
The brief: BlackBerry asked Pope Wainwright & Wykes to launch the New BlackBerry Classic across the London Selfridges technology real estate, in keeping with its classic nature and heritage.
The result: Pope Wainwright & Wykes designed gallerystyle units representative of the BlackBerry brand, with bold black and white details, allowing the device screen to provide the colour to the display. Explanations of the BlackBerry history and design qualities accompanied the devices, alongside other classic accessories and brands that compliment the smartphone. Simplistic, understated pendant lighting lined the space, to which Selfridges claimed was ‘the best walkway project we have ever signed off.’
www.popewainwrightwykes.com
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We are IPOS. We design, produce and install all aspects of POS/POP. From in-store graphics, window vinyls and bespoke 3D retail displays to full multi-location campaign roll outs. For more info visit our website ipos-design.co.uk
iposdesign
IPOS, Unit 2d, Heapriding Mill, Ford Street, Stockport SK3 0BT London Office: IPOS, 63 Redchurch Street, London E2 7DJ
info@ipos-design.co.uk | 0161 477 8501 | ipos-design.co.uk
Make a big splash 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.
Q & A column Karl’s
Karl McKeever Let’s not discount the value of retail. There has been much talk of the sky falling in on UK grocery retailing. Indeed, many have warned that the outlook for 2015 will remain challenging. Shopper buying habits and the grocery landscape are undoubtedly changing. Whilst the discounters’ star continues to rise, like-for-like sales across the big chains continue to fall and so do prices. Fixed in the belief that there is a need to do something drastic, supermarkets seem trapped in a cycle of endless price cuts, whilst unveiling each initiative as a ‘new’ strategy to win shoppers and boost short term sales. Or should that be ‘desperate measure’? Asda’s chief merchandising officer recently went so far as to liken rivals’ fixation on money-off vouchers as the promotional equivalent to quantitative easing. Meanwhile, over at Tesco, there’s a 250m cost-cutting plan. More than 40 of its worst performing stores are due to be axed in 2015 and its head offices will be consolidated. Drastic times call for drastic measures. Oh, and a new pricing strategy in the form of — you guessed it — price cuts! But what about Tesco’s announcement last year that it would aim to upgrade its entire store portfolio by 2017 — how is that progressing? Well, apart from flooding stores with cardboard POS, as part of its Love Every Mouthful campaign, it’s been hard to see any visible difference. So, what next? If you’re a supermarket, or any other type of retailer for that matter, that’s looking to do something fundamentally different in 2015, why not try this — focus on the fundamentals of delivering a great shopping experience and look at how you can get more from what you already have. It’s time for more retailers to go back to basics when it comes to achieving competitive advantage. This isn’t a strategy that involves lots of capital expenditure. Instead, it’s about focusing on delivering better use of promotional space, ensuring store teams are fully engaged and well-trained, and having a ruthless commitment to both attention to detail and basic housekeeping in order to reinforce the brand’s in-store presence. It’s essential to remember that being competitive is not just about slashing prices, and it should certainly not involve slashing standards, and this worrying trend is not just restricted to grocery. Karl McKeever is creative director of visual merchandising and brand delivery consultancy Visual Thinking.
Email Karl at karl@retailfocus.co www.visualthinking.co.uk
As we saw during Black Friday, brand standards, the retail environment and customer experience are often forgotten when lowest price is the single driving force. Yes, this seasonal US import may have fostered some spikes in sales, but I was more concerned with what it did for brands’ reputations. We have been working with major high street brands in the UK and Australia over the past year or so. Rather than following the price-slashing spiral, they have remained confident in what they are as brands and competed on differentiation and not just price. Our work has not been about creating a new store environment or devising a hugely expensive marketing campaigns in-store. It’s been focused on asking questions like, ‘is the customer journey cohesive’; ‘is the allocation and use of space being optimised’; ‘does the promotion make sense’; and ‘can displays maintain day sales whilst maintaining their visual presentation?’ It’s also about thinking like a customer and stepping back and making sure that product adjacencies work, make logical sense and help theme areas that are easily found and navigated by customers. As the saying goes, work smarter not harder.
tals of n e m a d n fu e th n o ‘Focus opping h s t a re g a g n ri e v li de look at how experience and re om what fr o m t e g n a c u yo you already have.’ It gives me some reassurance that I’m not the only one with low price inertia in the retail world. John Lewis’s managing director, Andy Street, recently commented to the BBC that he hoped that 2014 would prove to be ‘the high water mark for Black Friday’. Nick Collard, Morrisons’ group marketing and customer director, also recently stated that he believed it would be brand differentiation and not price that would help them to win over the market. Which brings me back to Tesco. Whilst there is clearly a need to remain competitively priced, what it and many other retailers should be doing is asking some of the previous questions and taking time to get some of the basics right again. If more retailers could re-establish some of these foundations again, I think they would be facing a happier, more profitable future, and crucially not one that’s as dependent on discounting. The truth is, when it comes to competing on price, there is no end and nobody wins. Someone will always be cheaper, be it online or on the high street. Lower costs are not a differentiator anymore, and for me those retailers that pursue this strategy will simply erode their margins and leave shoppers will a few more pence in their pocket, but ultimately unrewarded.
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project focus
, LEVI S
CHARLOTTE ROAD, SHOREDITCH
Design: FormRoom Opening date: January 2015 Store size: 48 sq m Levi’s has opened a pop-up store in Shoreditch dedicated to its Levi’s Line 8 collection. The store, designed by FormRoom, is located in the heart of Shoreditch on Charlotte Road for five months and features must-have styles for guys and girls from the SS15 Line 8 collection. Richard Hurren, vice president of Levi’s Northern Europe, explains the brief: ‘Levi’s Line 8 is a collection that takes its inspiration from a youthful and rebellious stance. We wanted the store to reflect this aesthetic and we believe we’ve created a space that reflects this vision. It’s simple, minimalist and monochrome — much like the products on offer in the store — yet it’s still recognisably Levi’s.’ The location was a Dockers showroom that FormRoom needed to change into the pop-up space. Kate Fryer, project manager at FormRoom, says: ‘This pop-up has a sleek, minimal look compared with the distinctive raw and industrial Levi store.’ The design mirrors that of the collection with a contemporary and minimalist, monochromatic composition. ‘The client provided us with mood board images of the type of styling they wanted for the pieces of furniture and the overall material palette of the space. We worked with the client to realise the concept and craft a refined space,’ continues Fryer. The front facade and interior of the store were decorated. Furniture was manufactured using a combination of white washed and black washed plywood in keeping with the monochromatic colour scheme. Powder coated box section metal railings were fixed to the ceiling. Upholstered seating in the centre of the space was defined by a patterned rug, and neon lighting brings the space to life. This store differs from other Levi’s stores in several ways. ‘Firstly, the Levi’s Line 8 store is located in the heart of Shoreditch — a neighbourhood known for its community spirit and creativity, so for Levi’s to be a part of that community is something we’re really excited about and feels really natural,’ says Hurren. ‘This is also the first store that we’ve dedicated exclusively to, and designed specifically for, our Line 8 collection. The aesthetics of the products and store really mirror each other — the Line 8 collection is presented through a minimalist approach and we experimented with low-level fixtures and hanging bars which work really well in the space. ‘We really saw the space as a blank canvas, which meant that our team used their artistic license across the store. From designing the layout to including unexpected and exciting elements, from the statement floor panel in the entrance to the neon signs, we made sure that the store had a youthful and contemporary atmosphere in keeping with the collection. The sense of community is an essential part of the unique spirit of East London and we really wanted to look at how we could be a part of this,’ continues Hurren. ‘This inspired the idea of creating an essential East London event listing called Levi’s Line 8 Line Up. Changing weekly and tapping into different social communities, the line up lives in-store and engages conversation around #LevisLine8.’
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OLIVER CALVERT SPENCER AVENUE, SHOREDITCH Design: In-house and Another Country Opening date: October 2014 Store size: 65 sq m
Oliver Spencer has embarked on a new showcase store on Calvert Avenue, Shoreditch — the brand’s forth store in London. The vision behind the store is a collaboration between the furniture brand Another Country and Oliver Spencer. ‘We have done a collaboration with British contemporary furniture maker, Another Country, which has made us re-think our own retail concept,’ explains Oliver Spencer. ‘Change and new concepts are a very good way of helping to drive the brand forward. Think clean oak with a charred top effect; it feels very architectural.’ The partnership is inspired by archetypal British style, featuring a mix of oak shelves and beautifully finished long, elegant tables also make of oak. The work of David Nash was the main inspiration for Spencer. ‘His use of wood, metal and the natural environment was an inspiration. This is taking the company in a new direction and is something we feel very passionate about. The store is all about colour and texture — the rough with the smooth. We are delivering a contemporarily crafted aesthetic for both the store and the collection itself. We need to be developing retail so that it moves on at the same pace as our collection.’ Oliver Spencer’s attention to detail is reflected in the burnt wood finish to enhance the colour of the blonde oak wood. All
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the furniture and fittings have been made in England using the forward-thinking workshop techniques to create a very modern wood-craft aesthetic. ‘We supplied a number of bespoke items all adaptations of, or developments from, our Series One collection,’ explains Catherine Aitken, studio manager at Another Country. ‘Our Series One is characterised by a generous radius on the underside of the surface, whether it be shelf or table top and rounded legs. These features were carried across to all the furniture we designed and produced for Oliver Spencer. All the furniture was made from solid oak finished either with a natural, oiled and then waxed finish or a burnt finish which was a new development for us and something Oliver Spencer was particularly enthusiastic about.’ Furniture supplied included floating shelves located around the perimeter walls, shelving units with adjustable shelves, display tables with burnt oak surfaces, and glass display cabinets for smaller accessories and sunglasses. The odd Bar Stool One of Bench One with a back also makes an appearance. ‘All the furniture and fittings have been made in England and are carefully crafted using high quality timber. Our furniture sits perfectly with Oliver Spencer’s vision of archetypal British style that merges traditional methods with modern technology. We
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believe our furniture contributes to the creation of a welcoming retail environment that is both approachable and contemporary,’ explains Aitken. Oak was chosen not only for its robust nature but for the warmth it brings — in the case of Calvert Avenue — to an otherwise industrial space. ‘By contrast to a more traditional lacquer, the burnt finish further highlights the grain of this beautiful timber,’ says Aitken. ‘For me, it was a question of finding a beautiful store on this street; one came up so we jumped at the chance. We knew all along that the brand was suited to this neighbourhood, as there are plenty of our customers that live and work in that part of town. Calvert Avenue is the nicest street in London’s East end,’ believes Spencer. He explains partnering with a furniture company for the new store. ‘Another Country is a like-minded British brand; it crafts wood in such a beautiful way. The proportions matched perfectly with what we wanted to achieve within the store’s interior. Paul, who owns Another Country, is a good friend of mine and being
a personal fan of the brand it was very natural to work together on this store. Together we created substantial oak shelves and beautifully finished long, elegant tables made of oak, with a charred finish. ‘I love doing interior design and naturally, with that comes a love for furniture. I like substantial, well-crafted wooden pieces; colour and texture are always around. In-store the interior creates the whole ambiance in which the collection sits.’ In terms of design challenges along the way, the main one was the shape of the store. ‘Its a very long and narrow store, which in a way was great as we have a treble fronted window display,’ says Spencer. ‘From the outside looking in, the store looks massive. Our challenge was to maximise on the space available on the inside. We didn’t want the overall feeling when you walk into the store to be a disappointment.’ Joshua Bird, store manager at Oliver Spencer, concludes: ‘The new Shoreditch store showcases the progression of the brand that Oliver has been working on for the past decade. This is a contemporary store for a contemporary collection.’
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SISLEY BLEECKER STREET, NEW YORK
Design: In-house Size: 70 sq m Opening date: December 2014 Luxury French beauty brand Sisley opened its first freestanding New York City boutique in December at 343 Bleecker Street. The 70 sq m store marks the launch of a new store design for the brand, which draws influences from its heritage as a family owned company. The boutique offers Sisley’s beauty treatments within its spa room, alongside a private make-up area that can be reserved for special occasion make-up appointments. Christine d’Ornano, Sisley’s international vice president and daughter of founder Hubert d’Ornano, spearheaded the store design with the assistance of Sisley’s merchandising director, Maude Bolleau. The New York boutique differs from the brand’s Las Vegas location in that the team set out to create an environment that feels more like home than a retail space. d’Ornano hand selected a number of the décor items. Her goal was to create the look of an intimate but modern apartment, drawing influences from Sisley’s Parisian roots while including elements from its downtown New York location. ‘We wanted the boutique to feel warm and inviting,’ says d’Ornano. ‘Less like a retail space and more like an apartment where you can come and discuss your skin’s needs, have a facial or have your make up done before a party.
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A Sisley home in downtown New York.’ She continues: ‘The look is still upscale and elegant in line with Sisley’s nature but it incorporates the high-end design elements of a living space.’ The Library area features a sitting lounge area and library to encourage customers to spend time relaxing whilst discovering more about Sisley’s products. d’Ornano dressed this area with art and cultural books that inspired her family in the creation of their products. ‘The design offers customers a place to spend time with the brand and to be pampered. It goes beyond a simple in and out shopping experience because the interior is so warm and inviting. We have created an atmosphere where customers can spend as much time as they want browsing or relaxing, as if in their friend’s apartment.’ The wallpaper was designed by Marthe Armitage. Based in the UK, she’s considered one of the best handmade wallpaper designers in the world. For decades she has hand drawn her prints and continues to create this way even now into her eighties. The chandelier was selected from local artist Lindsey Adelamn’s madeto-order collections based out of Brooklyn. Oak flooring is finished in a special light grey tone, injecting an elegant, chic downtown New York City look into the space. The spa cabin room can be pre-booked for facials and is the only location in downtown New York City to experience a full Sisley facial. The separate make-up application area is ideal for women who prefer privacy while having make-up applied or who want make-up advice in a quiet environment.
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sustainable design
BACK TO NAT With the issue of sustainability at the forefront of many creatives’ minds, many displays are now designed to be reused and adapted for future use. The festive season showed a strong use of sustainable materials within windows and in-store displays. For example, Harlequin Design’s scheme for Watches of Switzerland featured logs, sourced from a sustainable woodland, hanging in the displays. Creative agency HRG seeks to use sustainability materials and methods in all of its projects. The company is continually developing the ethos of the team to practice what it preaches and to truly embody the meaning of sustainability. Emma Dicks, insights director at HRG, says sustainability should be high on the agenda for brands and retailers: ‘We can design and produce in a positively sustainable way, but if what we produce ends up in landfill, that positive intent is largely pointless. In reality, there is absolutely no excuse for not thinking in a sustainable way, so I urge everyone to subscribe to the standard and help protect the future of our planet.’ There can be the reservations that sustainable design can stifle creativity. ‘Considering sustainability should not stifle the level of creativity, just be part of the challenge. From a design perspective this means training, providing evidence of our mind-set and being open to new ideas,’ believes Dicks. ‘In our opinion, sustainable design can increase levels of creativity as it means you are constantly striving for new ideas and materials to best serve the client’s objectives and brief.’ The One Off has worked extensively with Calke Abbey, a National Trust site in Derbyshire, on various projects from creating brand guidelines to designing new ticketing and catering experiences. The sustainable design includes English oak from the estate to build furniture and graphic items. For the new catering facilities, materials such as slate and oaks slabs were used, which offset the natural tones and textures of the space. At Gloucester Services near the Cotswolds, Britain’s greenest service station, emphasis is placed on local food, farming and its community, backed by a sustainable design. It was a sensitive brief — to build a 5574 sq m motorway service area in the Cotswold landscape. Glenn Howells Architects designed the services and AFL Architects delivered the scheme, which includes a main building constructed from
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local stone and timber, with an arched grass covered roof. Even the lighting is made from reclaimed wood. Matthew Cripps Associate of CID Interieur and former lecturer at SIAD, listed sustainability as one of several key trends in surfaces for 2015. ‘Responsibility — there will be more use of re-cycled and reclaimed materials and processes. Many of the exhibitors at Surface Design Show 2015 had eco-friendly products including Surfaceform, which has eco-friendly plaster and Porcel Thin tiles; these tiles are designed and produced for energy saving buildings with a low environmental impact.’ The Surface Design Show highlighted a number of companies that specialise in sustainable surfaces. Aluphant demonstrated it 100 per cent recyclable aluminium interior finishes that have an efficient coating method. The aluminium cladding has been used throughout the Clarion Hotel in Trondheim, Norway where it contributes to the energy efficiency of the building. As well as new flooring, Benott Wood Flooring also provides a line of reclaimed wooden flooring, while Grestec Tiles showed a sustainable range of wood effect porcelain tiles influenced by the ancient Japanese technique of Shou Sugi Sugi Ban. The company offers a collection of eco-friendly products.
Right: Surfaceform combines ecofriendly plaster with other materials such as glass, gold and concrete. Below: 17th Century French reclaimed oak flooring from Benott Wood Floors. Below right: Eco-friendly floor protection systems from Fila were specified for Gloucester Services, Britain’s greenest service station.
sustainable design
ATURE
Above left: Aluphant 100 per cent recyclable aluminium interior finishes at the Clarion Hotel in Trondheim. Above: Watches of Switzerland’s Christmas windows featured custom fitted logs, created by Harlequin Design. Far left: arken POP’s Equations modular tray systems are a cost-effective alternative to short-term temporary cardboard or permanent bespoke displays, and last up to 10 years. Left: The One Off specified sustainable materials for The National Trust’s Calke Abbey.
‘Retailers would find it hard to accept sustainability if it cost more,’ says Alan Pegram, founder and managing director of Global Display and the driver behind the new SDEA Sustainability Initiative. ‘Within retail, sustainability at equipment level has typically involved a sacrifice in terms of increased price and/or longer lead-times. This is particularly noticeable with new concepts where many new projects have ended up simply ticking the usual boxes of price, time and fit for purpose. ‘SDEA is committed to the development and execution of a Sustainability Evaluation and Accreditation Programme. The main benefits of this initiative will be in the form of a tool for suppliers of retail equipment and as formal accreditation for retailers to assess the sustainability credentials of their current and potential suppliers.’ BRE and 4G are working with the SDEA team as expert consultants. ‘Visual merchandising design can have a unique role in providing solutions that could address the problem rather than act as a sticky plaster, covering up the environmental wounds that may lay behind
There’s an increasing pressure for retailers to do their part for the environment and adopt sustainable design practises.
a retailer’s lack of responsibility,’ believes Jonathan Baker, course director at London College of Fashion and VM consultant. ‘What I’m not suggesting is that we design a green theme, eco window or create props from old tyres and toilet paper. We need to have a far more in depth look at what we’re doing and develop a strategy to deal with this instead of a strategy not to deal with this problem, abandoning a surface approach to simply appear to be concerned, however something is better than nothing of course.’ Baker points out that VM is of course only one small albeit crucial cog in the retail and design world but it does nonetheless need a sustainability philosophy to be a part of this, which at least to his knowledge is only being explored in a limited way. ‘Visual merchandising should not only be something used to create a higher profit or be something that creates differentiation or maintains a competitive advantage, but surely should and can also be something that is sustainable? ‘We all know good VM design is good business, communicates additional messages to the consumer, promotes choice and brand identification, facilitates sales and of course is part of the shopping experience. However, what types of materials are wasted in this process unnecessarily? What types of materials are being used in this process when we could use something else?’ As Baker points out, we are increasingly breeding a new type of customer that scrutinises everything the industry does in retail design for its environmental impact and sustainability. ‘While sustainability is essential and a source of creativity, its tone is reductive, so we are tempted to wrap it in more attractive clothes before we engage with it,’ believes Aaron Shields, director of strategy for Fitch EMEA. ‘Grocery stores have become marketplaces, distressed clothing has never been more popular and upcycled industrial chic can be seen everywhere. Just visit any independent coffee shop and you’ll see all the facets of this trend in full swing. This movement is a restyled form of sustainability with many aping the form but not the function, using distressed new materials that they can use to confidently scale globally.’ Shields highlights a new trend that might not have a name, but is best typified in the new ‘& Other Stories’ design by H&M. ‘It’s heralding the return of the big white box in retail but it’s so much more. It has spent
no effort or materials on the shell — it’s as simple as can be, but look at the kit inside. It’s essentially a set of Lego bricks, infinitely swappable to be rearranged, exchanged and updated without the need to throw any piece away. It remains fresh and smart without costing the earth in any sense.’ The rate of change at retail is causing a shift in the way creatives design schemes. They can’t afford to scrap a shop design with every change in trend, yet can’t afford to create fixed schemes with the need for physical retail to continually become more theatrical and engaging. New ideas are needed to sustain businesses, brands and the environment. ‘So, while the term sustainability may now be used only by governments and consulting firms, its tenants have buried themselves deep into our design psyche and will continue to influence future design movements,’ believes Shields.
Dates for your diary
A panel discussion will take place at Retail Design Expo about the SDEA Sustainability Initiative on 11 March at 12:15. The panel discussion will include Steve Lister, SDEA council member; Dr Ed Suttie of BRE; Pete Dawes, managing director at 4G Design and David Bloom, head of global specifications — retail design department at Marks & Spencer.
Pencil 3-5 March into your diary for a visit to ExCel London for Ecobuild, the sustainable design, construction and energy event for new build, refurbishment, commercial and domestic buildings. Visit www.ecobuild.co.uk to register to attend the show.
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February 2015
News RBTE 2015 preview Retail’s Big Show round-up
h c u o T nd go a 5 the year of Is 201 the digital wallet?
INTRODUCING
Lego by FITCH
REGISTER NOW FOR THE UK’S LEADING EVENT DEDICATED SOLELY TO PROFESSIONALS WORKING IN RETAIL DESIGN, BRANDING & VISUAL MERCHANDISING The new and essential event for all those responsible for retail design and marketing – retail designers, property/formats directors and managers, operations directors, visual merchandisers, marketers, shop fitters & suppliers. Retail Design Expo has been carefully crafted by a star studded industry steering panel to meet the needs of the entire retail design, branding and visual merchandising industry. And it’s all under one roof!
Free registration now open www.retaildesignexpo.com co-located with
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Here is a sneak preview of just some of the spectacular features we have in store for you: • •
• • • •
130+ exhibitors – covering every aspect of retail design and branding 50+ FREE conference sessions – with top retailers, designers and marketers revealing new insights, innovations, trends and tips spread across 5 theatres Designer Pavilion – housing cutting edge design consultancies and architects VM Live! – watch and learn from live demonstrations from leading VM specialists The Future Laboratory Trends Lab – make tomorrow belong to you POPAI Theatre - with knowledge-sharing, roundtables and invaluable learning sessions
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28/01/2015 09:19:59
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Welcome More than half of retailers
plan to increase their spend on retail technology this year compared to 2014, according to a survey for law firm TLT’s Retail Growth Strategies Report 2015. Conducted by Conlumino, the research revealed that websites and mobile apps and improving IT systems are expected to be the two most popular areas of investment. Other top areas for investment include replacing old systems and ensuring that different systems talk to each other. Retail’s Big Show in January revealed some exciting developments, which James Pepper, technical director at Vista Retail Support, reviews for us. Retail Business Technology Expo in March will no doubt reveal even more. See our preview of the show on P41-42 and plan your visit. In this supplement we ask the question, will 2015 be the year we use our smart phones to pay for goods? It certainly looks set to be the most important year yet for digital wallets. As brands bridge the gap between in-store and online, more technology is being utilised in-store. Many children today are glued to their smart phones and tablets, and are immersed in the world of technology. As Mark Cook, group CEO at Getronics, which has supplied iPads to Clarks to measure children’s feet in-store, says: ‘Technology plays an integral role in designing retail environments today. Catering to the expectations of digitally savvy children who are growing up with tablet devices at home and in the classroom is critical to differentiating the in-store experience.’
Lyndsey Dennis
41 RBTE 2015: Innovation and inspiration
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News
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Retail’s Big Show: Touch and go: Digital wallets Technology highlights
39 News The latest news from the retail technology sector.
41-42 RBTE 2015: Innovation and inspiration www.retail-focus.co.uk
Editor Lyndsey Dennis e. lyndsey@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405
Production & Web Terry Clark e. terry@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405
Display Sales Lee Cullumbine e. lee@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405
Head to Retail Business Technology Expo and get to grips with the very latest technology developments.
46-47 Touch and go Will consumers be putting their money where their mobile is in 2015?
47 48 Retail’s Big Show: Technology highlights James Pepper, technical director at Vista Retail Support, reports on the technology trends at Retail’s Big Show in New York.
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Join us for some futuristic and fantastic retailtainment at APS Group’s complimentary Retail Lab Event on 26th March 2015. With a chance to interact with industry leaders and some of the latest retail technology. And not to mention our guest speaker – a CEO from one of the most reputable, longstanding British high street retailers. Interested? Visit: www.theapsgroup.com/retail Email: hello@theapsgroup.com Call: Ella on +44 (0) 161 495 4959 Nancy on +44 (0) 161 495 6586
Connect with us
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news
Clarks deploys iPads to measure children’s feet Clarks has deployed iPad technology in more than 590 of its stores across the UK, enabling staff to measure the size of children’s feet whilst delivering an interactive and memorable experience for both parent and child. Supplied by Getronics, the iPads replace electronic foot gauges, which have traditionally been used to fit children’s shoes. The combination of 170 years of shoe fitting heritage with this state-of-the-art innovation sees Clarks step up to meet its customers’ fast-evolving digital expectations. Notably, the deployment of this new technology in-store ensures that Clarks is providing a seamless and cohesive customer experience across
multiple channels, both online and offline. Mark Cook, group CEO at Getronics, says: ‘Technology plays an integral role in designing retail environments today. Catering to the expectations of digitally savvy children who are growing up with tablet devices at home and in the classroom is critical to differentiating the in-store experience.’ To support the iPad deployment, Clarks worked with Design Works to create its own customer app, which features animated characters, Jack Nano and Daisy, who entertain and guide the child through each simple step of the shoe measurement process.
T1Vision and Neiman Marcus launch interactive retail tables T1Vision has teamed up with Neiman Marcus to introduce interactive retail tables in four of the retailer’s stores across the U.S. The tables feature a 32in Ultra HD 4K touchscreen, covered by a single continuous pane of glass. The touchscreens are powered by T1Vision’s OneShop retail software, which allows customers to browse and filter Neiman Marcus’ inventory, including items both in-store and out-of-store. Customers can add items to their ‘My Favorites for Wishlist’, which can be emailed with live product links to reference for immediate purchase or for later review. The software also supports a recommendation engine based on search results. For store associates, the table provides them with up-to-the-minute inventory beyond what is available in-store, including what’s coming soon. The touch tables can also be used as a tool to share the latest trends with shoppers.
Panasonic introduces the Smart Mirror Launched at the CES show in Las Vegas, Panasonic’s Smart Mirror is a clever piece of kit that analyses a person’s skin, using built in high definition cameras, highlighting their flaws and then recommends which products to use. The sensor inside the mirror scans the facial skin and analyses it showing the status of spots, wrinkles, etc.The mirror then recommends appropriate cosmetics and food recipes for the user utilising previously stored personal data stored in the cloud. The mirror offers a make-up simulation with a choice of make-up options. It allows the user to select different makeup and advises them on the best combination to suit their face. Panasonic is hoping to implement the virtual mirror in department stores across the globe.
Starbucks launches Powermat wireless charging zones Starbucks is launching Powermat wireless charging zones in 10 central London Starbucks stores, the first on the high street to offer this technology. Customers can simply collect a ‘ring’ at the till point, connect it to their phone and place their device on the tables and counters that have Powermat wireless charging technology built in — clearly marked with a circular spot. This wireless charging deployment is part of Starbucks’ continued commitment to investing in digital innovations that improve its customers’ overall in-store experience. Having introduced free Wi-Fi to all UK customers in 2011, Starbucks now hopes to do for wireless power what it did for wireless data: solve a real problem for customers.
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Free Registration now open www.rbtexpo.com
BE THE FUTURE OF RETAILING At RBTE, Europe’s largest retail event, you will find out how to boost sales, reduce costs, improve margins and enhance customer engagement
RBTE IS YOUR EVENT! eCommerce Bootcamps | Dedicated Payments Conference Stream Innovation Trail | Networking | Over 300 Exhibitors | FREE conference programme featuring leading retailers | ALL UNDER ONE ROOF
Speakers already confirmed include:
programme subject to change
Andrew Harrison, Deputy Group CEO, Dixons Carphone John Roberts, CEO And Founder, ao.com Simon Roberts, Managing Director, Health & Beauty UK and ROI, Boots UK Catriona Marshall, CEO, Hobbycraft Simon Belsham, Managing Director, Grocery Home Shopping, Tesco.com Paul Coby, IT Director, John Lewis Therese Proctor, Chief Personnel Officer, Tesco Bank Ed Child, Head of Customer Data & Marketing Effectiveness, Asda
Kevin O’Brien, IT Director, Selfridges Mike Durbridge , Director of Omni Channel, B&Q UK and Ireland Robert Teagle, EMEA IT Director, Starbucks Matthew Stead, Multi-Channel Director, Pets at Home Menno Rientjes, IT Director, LloydsPharmacy Michel Koch, e-Commerce Director, Maplin Electronics Paul Kendrick, International Director, N Brown Group PLC Richard Clark, Marketing Director, Boohoo.com
10 – 11th March 2015 Olympia Grand, London www.rbtexpo.com | +44 (0) 208 874 2728
RBTE 2015 A1 Retail.indd 2
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RBTE preview
RBTE 2015:
INNOVATION AND INSPIRATION Head to Retail Business Technology Expo and get to grips with the very latest technology innovations. RBTE will settle into its new home at London Olympia on 10-11 March. The two-day event is the ideal place for retail and hospitality organisations who want to keep up to date with all the latest solutions, as well as take advantage of the strategic and tactical advice available. The show is a great event for the entire retail team to visit, including merchandising, marketing, ecommerce, IT, operations, security and payments. More than 450 exhibitors have booked space at the show, covering every aspect of the customer journey including the vital instore experience. This year’s show offers more conference sessions, with over 150 to choose from. Topics will include thought leadership, trends and tips from leading retailers and customer experience experts. Speakers will include representatives from such retailers as B&Q, Marks & Spencer, Tesco, Selfridges, John Lewis, Hobbycraft and Pets At Home.
Show features eCommerce Bootcamps These highly practical workshop sessions will provide hands-on advice on every key element of ecommerce. Delegates will be able to learn about a subject and then to be able to go away and implement what they’ve learnt. The sessions are designed to inspire and delegates will go back to the office ready to invigorate their colleagues and provide them with valuable insights and a practical plan of action. The eCommerce Bootcamps are for retailers only and will need to be booked via the RBTE website. 10.00: Customer Attraction and Retention 10.45: Pay By App 11.30: Omnichannel Customer Platform 12.15: From Site to Store 13.00: Interactive Marketing and Personalisation 13.45: Global Expansion 14.30: Data 15.15: Checkout and Payment 16.00: Proximity, Engagement and You
Theatre B sponsored by ACI Worldwide This dedicated theatre shares case studies, highlights technological innovation, provides education and discusses the changing regulatory environment.
RFID Zone With all the questions and debate around RFID, this zone offers the ideal opportunity to see all elements of RFID in a practical environment. The area offers a fully interactive retail journey — from the warehouse to the shop floor — demonstrating RFID’s multiple functions and advantages across all aspects of retails.
Eye on Innovation, sponsored by 4R Top: HSO will be launching its Dynamic Fashion for AX solution on stand 570. Above: Unique Secure will be showcasing a range of payment and mobile tech solutions on stand 444, including MePOS. Below: Visit stand 180 to try out the latest Voicepage system, use the headsets and test the messaging system available via the Customer Call points and Checkout Keypads.
The Innovation programme at RBTE will showcase the very best solutions, products and services that are shaping the way that the retail industry will evolve. RBTE’s Innovation Steering Committee will be selecting the very best innovation at the show and creating a trail so visitors can see for themselves. Representatives from the zone’s main sponsors will be on hand to demonstrate RFID’s multiple functions and advantages across all aspects of retail.
PayPal Chill & Charge Lounge Sponsored by PayPal, the Chill & Charge Lounge is located within the main hall and offers visitors the opportunity to use the free WiFi, have a coffee and network — it’s a great place to arrange to meet.
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RBTE preview
The FutureStore.Today
Matt Bradley, event director of Retail Business Technology Expo, discusses plans for the 2015 show and what technology developments to look out for this year.
What new features have you got planned for this year’s RBTE show? As well as more than 300 of the world’s leading suppliers, we’ve a dedicated focus on innovation. RBTE has become renowned for delivering the newest and most innovative solutions in the market place. We will be highlighting the very best of these in our Innovation Trail. These will be selected by our panel of retail experts who have spent the last few months going through the hundreds of applications we’ve had. For the first time ever, we will also have a dedicated French Supplier pavilion unveiling some of the hidden gems from across the water with many never seen before in the UK. We have a round table discussion on Revolutionising the Customer In-Store Experience, which will bring together some the industries greatest minds to debate the future of retail, and don’t forget about the continued focus on the world of e-commerce with practical bootcamps taking you on the full end-to-end journey from screen to store. As a special treat for this years visitors, RBTE has linked up with futurologist and experience designer Morris Pentel to create the shopping experience of tomorrow from the latest products available today for visitors to experience at the show.
How important is technology within today’s retail store? Absolutely vital! It drives everything. Today’s customer dictates hugely how they want to shop, and some retailers are playing catch up. The power the consumer holds across the channels has forced retailers to become more flexible to adapt to changing needs and trends. A huge amount of attention is placed online but increasingly we see that the focus comes back to the instore experience. While online and mobile technologies offer convenience and speed, in store has a distinct advantage — offering face-to-face personal interaction that can greatly improve the customer’s experience. Technology in store is enabling retailers to revolutionise the way they communicate with their customers. Many stores are already using technology to increase personalisation and loyalty as they attempt to make the shopping experience more exciting and emotionally engaging. I only see the momentum for this trend continuing into the foreseeable future.
What technology trends do you predict for 2015?
As a special treat for this year’s visitors, RBTE has asked leading futurologist and experience designer Morris Pentel to create the shopping experience of tomorrow from the latest products available today for you to experience at the exhibition. In collaboration between RBTE and the Customer Experience Foundation, the exhibit will demonstrate how the latest retail innovations and the IOT (Internet of Things) is changing the shopping experience. TheFutureStore.Today is the size of an exhibition stand but demonstrating how technology and innovation will change the shopping experience for the consumer who can choose anything... your favourite supermarket or department store to a trendy boutique somewhere exotic, the possibilities are endless. From touching a wall to buying a product, to speaking that commands the lights in a house 20 miles away to change colour. Or watching the TV, tweeting and ordering pizza while chatting with friends through a video link while comparing your prices, or doing it all at the same time.
Champagne Bar sponsored by Dell The Champagne Bar takes centre stage at RBTE and is situated right in the heart of the show, offering the ideal venue for networking.
International Retail Franchising Summit The International Retail Franchising Summit is a one-day, content-rich conference taking place alongside RBTE. Its programme is designed to provide complete and practical solutions for furthering the development of all retailers’ current and/or future international franchising strategies. It’s intended to help retailers build profitable strategies in relation to international franchising and to help in the areas of country choice, location choice, brand consistency and eCommerce. This will be done via the Speaker Programme and through interactive panel discussions. For a full list of exhibitors and to register for the event, visit www.retailbusinesstechnologyexpo.com
When and where Olympia, London Tuesday 10 March 2015
09.30-17.00
Wednesday 11 March 2015
09.30-17.00
rbtexpo #RBTE2015 www.retailbusinesstechnologyexpo.com
Retailers placing more focus on loyalty and understanding the customer through personalisation. To continue to try and make the omni-channel journey seamless, and the increase in demand for click and collect will lead retailers to explore ways of achieving real time inventory through technologies such as RFID. *All information correct at time of going to press
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products
RBTE Cognitec Systems - Stand 280 FaceVACS-VideoScan detects and identifies persons of interest in real time while computing demographic and behavioural data, supporting security staff, marketing departments and operations management in one application. Anonymous facial analysis allows the software to compute people count, demographical information and people movement in time and space, and to detect frequent visitors and crowds. FaceVACS-VideoScan also performs real-time identity checks against image databases to find known persons. T. +49 351 862 920 E. info@cognitec.com www.cognitec.com Twitter: cognitec
DED - Stand 413 DED will be exhibiting a comprehensive selection of POS equipment from industry leading manufacturers such as Star Micronics, Bixolon, Posiflex, Honeywell, Ergonomic Solutions (SpacePole), Socket Mobile, Evolis and Nippin Primex. To demonstrate how the face of POS is evolving, DED will be focussing on mobile point of sale (MPOS) solutions. Products will include MPOS bundles featuring card readers from iZettle, PayPal and Payleven; mobile and bluetooth printers from Star Micronics, and the new MT-4008 8in POS tablet from Posiflex. New touchscreen terminals from Posiflex, along with the HS2300 touchscreen with integrated printer, will also be on show alongside a line of kiosk printing solutions. T. +44 (0)1797 320 636 E: sales@ded.co.uk www.ded.co.uk Twitter: DEDLtd
NEC Display Solutions Stand 568 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.com Twitter: NEC_Display_EU
Futura Retail Systems Stand 556 Lifestyle retailers, department stores and fashion retailers attending RBTE can find out how to enhance their customers’ buying experience dramatically by visiting Futura Retail Systems. The company will demonstrate its EPOS and retail management system, designed to improve the performance of international and lifestyle retailers in omni-channel retailing. Futura’s core system can manage multiple functions including EPOS, merchandising and gift cards and includes full CRM and e-commerce capabilities. T. +44 (0)1189 841 925 E. sales@futurauk.com www.futura4retail.co.uk Twitter: Futura_retail
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digital wallets
TOUCH AND GO Will consumers be putting their money where their mobile is in 2015?
In the fast pace of modern life, convenience and ease of payment are key. No hassle, no fuss, just a simple touch and we’ve paid for our goods. It’s something that many of the technology giants are developing and integrating into today’s retail environment. So, could 2015 be the year of the digital wallet? The concept of the digital wallet has attracted the interest of many payment processors, including big brand credit card firms like Visa and MasterCard as well as companies such as Apple and Isis. According to the Centre for Economic and Business Research (Cebr), 20 million adults will use their mobiles to pay for goods and services by the end of the decade, with the value of purchases tripling from current levels to £14.2bn in 2018. This clearly shows that consumers want mobile banking. For banks, there is an obvious logistical advantage. ‘The cost of fulfilling cards — credit, debit, gift and loyalty — is not limited to the production of the card itself; it includes the management and distribution of cards, whilst maintaining dedicated customer helplines to activate or reorder lost, stolen or expired cards. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that financial institutions and merchants are embracing digital wallets which would provide a cost-effective alternative,’ says Mark Prior-Egerton, solutions marketing manager at payment service provider, The Logic Group. ‘In 2014 we started to see the building blocks fall into place for digital wallets. Apple announced Apple Pay, contactless card payments became the preferred method of payment and Near Field Communications (NFC) was included in an ever greater number of devices. In fact, our research has shown that 54 per cent of UK consumers want to use mobile payments by Christmas next year. We’re reaching a tipping point where the public is warming to mobile payments and wallets,’ continues Prior-Egerton. The Logic Group’s research also found that one in five consumers would be happy to use wearables (such as Apple Watch) or their social media account to pay. However, he says anyone expecting digital wallets to become the norm in 2015 is likely to be disappointed. ‘That’s not to say this year isn’t important; in fact the platform for mobile wallets is going
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to be properly established over the coming months. Visa and MasterCard are preparing to launch digital wallets this year which will make online shopping easier for consumers. Customers will therefore become familiar with buying goods online via a wallet. Alongside this, a greater number of retailers will start accepting High Value Contactless payments, removing the limit on what can be paid for via contactless; this will be an important step on the road to retailers accepting mobile payments in the future. Finally, Apple Pay’s launch in the UK/Europe will be a game changer; Apple has a track record for backing the winning horse and I don’t see their endorsement of the digital wallet being any different.’ Consumers need to understand the technology first and grow comfortable with it, and it seems they’re reaching that point now. The Logic Group’s research shows that security remains a major concern for consumers when making payments — more than 51 per cent cited it as a factor. At this point, the concerns around security, digital wallets and mobile payments are being overcome. Above: Zapp is working with a number of retailers to introduce mobile payments in 2015. Right: Apple’s iPhone 6 and AppleWatch feature Apple Pay.
digital wallets
For retailers, converting to digital wallets means quicker and more secure payments. ‘Mobile wallets help improve the customer experience and this is something every retailer is aiming for. It offers a win-win situation to both shoppers and retailers: shoppers have a faster, more convenient payment experience and retailers have another window into their customers shopping habits.’ continues Prior-Egerton. But in the last six months we’ve seen internet giants such as Amazon pull the plug on their mobile wallet offering. ‘Even with the convenience that comes with owning a digital wallet, there is still much work to be done in driving consumer demand. A digital wallet is much like the physical equivalent you would keep in your back pocket. It contains all your credit and debit card details — which may not be enough to break customers’ existing habits of reaching for cash or swiping a card,’ explains Akif Khan, vice president of solutions strategy at digital commerce platform specialist, Bitnet. ‘However, I still believe that money, like photos, movies and music, will ride the digital wave in 2015 and beyond. An increasing number of merchants have started accepting digital currencies, such as bitcoin, which allow financial transactions to take place without involving a financial institution. To be able to pay for goods using bitcoin, customers require a ‘wallet’ to store their bitcoin. Consumers should use all the security features in their wallet, such as two-factor authentication, to protect their digital cash,’ continues Khan. A key benefit of a bitcoin wallet is that it allows consumers to buy from anyone, anywhere, globally. Paying with a card or your digital wallet across country borders is still a costly process for both the consumer and merchant, whereas bitcoin is a global currency and involves no cross border charges. A bitcoin wallet also gives customers full control over their bitcoins, compared to a digital wallet that is overseen by financial establishments or a wallet provider. With bitcoin, nobody can pull funds from your wallet; only the wallet owner can push funds out. Finally, and perhaps most appealing to retailers, accepting bitcoin is typically cheaper than accepting payments by card with none of the fraud risk of accepting a card payment. As a result, merchants lose less in fees and face greater profit margins. ‘While 2015 may not necessarily be the year for digital wallets, digital currencies will see consumers become increasingly comfortable with this new way of paying. Bitcoin is still young, and credit cards are firmly entrenched after decades of use. However, during 2015 we can expect to see a significant increase in the number of well-known brands accepting bitcoin and growing consumer adoption of a new kind of digital wallet — not one that simply holds card numbers, but rather one holding an actual digital currency,’ believes Khan. Zapp’s mobile payments platform is built into consumers’ existing mobile banking apps, allowing them to pay quickly and securely. Zapp integrates with existing high street banking apps so that payment comes directly from the customer’s bank account in near real-time via their mobile (or other internet enabled device). It will work across mComm, eComm and POS. Zapp allows people to make payments seeing their balance before they pay for goods and services. Zapp is working with a number of retailers to introduce mobile payment in 2015, including Asda, Sainsbury’s, House of Fraser, Thomas Cook and Shop Direct. Mobile wallets and payments are the next step in the evolution of contactless. With High Value Contactless technology, consumers will be able to pay for anything with their phone from their lunch to a brand new car. ‘2015 isn’t likely to be ‘the year’ for digital wallets going mainstream but it’s by far the most important yet,’ concludes Prior-Egerton.
Above: An increasing number of merchants have started accepting digital currencies, such as bitcoin, which allow financial transactions to take place without involving a financial institution. Below Right: iPhone 6 users simply hold their device near a contactless reader with their finger on Touch ID. A subtle vibration and beep lets them know the payment information was successfully sent. Below: The Logic Group says 2015 is an important year for digital wallets. Bottom: Zapp will enable near real-time payments via mobile phones (or other internet-enabled devices) using existing mobile banking applications, allowing consumers to pay merchants quickly and securely.
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Retail’s Big Show
, RETAIL S BIG SHOW: HIGHLIGHTS The most promising technology at Retail’s Big Show in New York may not have been the most shiny and new, reports James Pepper, technical director at Vista Retail Support. In a retail world shifting towards omni-channel trading, Retail’s Big Show certainly gave the strong impression that integration was at the forefront. Everywhere in the vast exhibition halls were newly-developed interfaces, many of which have been designed by big players like Oracle and SAP to work with third-party supply chain systems. However, besides the glittering headline-grabbers there were other technologies that may have long-term impact. This could be because they have become more commercially viable through refinements, offering better customer engagement or because they have achieved next-step convergence with supply chain and stocking technology. Take beacon technology for instance, which allows mobile phone users to be tracked in-store through Wi-Fi or bluetooth connectivity. Aruba Networks demonstrated how its Meridian application not only pushes offers and information to shoppers, but also guides them around the store. Once shoppers have tapped their phones on the in-store beacon device, they are shown where the item they want is and are then guided to it via a sat nav-style map. The Aruba system also gives retailers a high degree of control via an easy-to-use dashboard that determines notification content and allows retailers to set the frequency and proximity of message triggers so that shoppers receive offers but don’t feel pestered. It’s from the same dashboard that valuable demographic and footfall data about customers is relayed. This is a technology that seems ready for deployment in large premises such as DIY warehouses or furniture stores. We know from the results of a survey conducted by Vista before Christmas that shoppers want offers direct to their phones. Some 81 per cent of respondents said they would take up such offers if they received them. Another simple technology that has really benefited from further development is shelf-edge labelling. UK business Displaydata demonstrated a system that enables a store owner to remotely change up to 65,000 electronic shelf price labels from a desktop dashboard. The three-year battery life for each label now makes this a viable technology. The system also has accurate shelf-life tracking and a detailed audit trail, which is important when prices are challenged. Wearable technology has previously promised to make a breakthrough but never yet succeeded, and at Retail’s Big Show there was a dearth of software companies talking about its integration into retail operations. However, it may be this technology has to take off in the health and fitness market before it makes its way into other areas such as payments. Nonetheless, Honeywell indicated one possible way forward with headsets fitted with visual displays that put information before the user’s eyes. Linked to delivery systems, perhaps using RFID technology, they will give staff updates on stock availability across
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many locations. When approached by customers, staff using the headsets can immediately advise whether an item is in the stockroom, can be sent over from a nearby store or sold online. Radio frequency identification (RFID), having struggled to gain adoption because of cost, is a technology that is now promising a better return on investment in fashion and high-value retail, thanks to applications that integrate stock-management, supply chain and customer service. The technology relies on electronic tags bearing mm-wide electronic chips. They’re attached to individual stock items and carry information such as identification, origin, shelf-life and warranty. The tags are now relatively inexpensive and can be scanned without stock having to come off the shelf or rack, making stock checking much easier and faster while allowing the data to be seen remotely in real time. This technology may take off now thanks to its potential for use in conjunction with in-store mobile hardware such as headsets. The advantage it brings is in giving shopfloor staff immediate information about stock availability and deliveries. The technology also offers further major benefits in the prevention of theft, both from store and stockroom shelves. These were by no means the only technologies on display that have the capacity to gain wider uptake in 2015. Nonetheless, it is often the less showy solutions that ultimately prove their worth and it will be interesting to see whether they have been picked up by the time we come round to next year’s show.
Call: 0845 680 7405 to advertise
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See us at
St
an
d - F30
Retail Design Expo
RETAIL DESIGN EXPO: NEW IN TOWN
Introducing Retail Design Expo, for all those responsible for retail design and marketing.
Co-located with Retail Business Technology Expo at Olympia, London on 10-11 March, Retail Design Expo has been carefully crafted by a steering panel of leading retail designers, marketers, visual merchandisers and architects. The show is packed with interactive features, from seminar theatres to trend labs. Here’s a round-up of the areas planned for this new exhibition:
Future Laboratory Trends Lab Think Polarity Paradox, Convergent Culture, Sharded Consumers, and Me-economy behaviours and you’re just beginning to appreciate what’s new, next and game changing in consumer thinking. Email finn@thefuturelaboratory.com to book your slot.
Student Awards, sponsored by Lumenpulse Alphaled Retail Design Expo will be actively supporting new talent. The Student Awards ceremony will showcase and celebrate talent within retail design. Students from the University of the Arts London, Ravensbourne, Kingston, Nottingham Trent and Northumbria will compete for internships at leading retailers and design consultancies, including John Lewis, Ted Baker, Marks & Spencer, Browns, Dalziel & Pow and Fitch.
Designer Pavilion UK design consultancies and architects will come together in this exciting key feature of the show. The Designer Pavilion hosts eight companies in the centre of the floor, with many other leading designers exhibiting elsewhere in the hall.
VM Lounge The Visual Merchandising Lounge is a dedicated space for VM conference speakers, VM Live practitioners and all VM professionals to meet and network.
Conferences There will be two full days of presentations in the Conference Theatres at Retail Design Expo. The programme will cover all aspects of visual merchandising, retail design and branding across three theatres: Visual Merchandising Theatre, Innovations Conference Theatre 1 and Innovations Conference Theatre 2. Topics will include future trends, designs that cross cultures, as well as cutting edge innovation. VM Live! is a series of demonstrations showing VM excellence, practiced VM skills and VM concept. It will feature live demonstrations of techniques such as mannequins (dressing, pinning, making, arranging), windows, decorations, model making, in-store installations, display layouts and much more. These sessions are much more interactive and less formal than the VM Conference and the audience will have the opportunity to question the practitioners or make suggestions if invited to. Join leading figures from POPAI UK & Ireland in the POPAI Theatre programme as they provide practical insight, advice and best practise case examples to improve POP innovation, performance and learning in your organisation. Spaces are limited so book early. Each morning of the show, POPAI will host a roundtable discussion forum exclusively for retailers and brands. Participation in the roundtables is on a pre-registered, first come, first served basis. To register, email info@retaildesignexpo.com
Taster of what to expect... 10 March 10.00: Ensuring the successful implementation of large scale time critical in-store campaigns — Mike Bradshaw, director of in-store marketing and merchandising at Boots and Colin Chapman, operations director at CJ Retail Solutions.
Retail Design Theatre 2 10.45: Getting under the skin of our customers — Tony Holdway, director of brand, House of Fraser. Retail Design Theatre 2 13.20: Harnessing the power of visual merchandising in a challenging retail climate — Val Lloyd, managing director of Design Ministry, London and Cyprus. Visual Merchandising Theatre 15.00: Pop-ups — fad or fixture in the retail mix? This is a panel discussion including Ross Bailey, founder & chief executive of Appear Here; David Martin, joint managing director of M Worldwide; Rupert Pick, planning & creative director of Hot Pickle, and Andrew Sparrow, group commercial director at WMC-Retail Parners.
Retail Design Theatre 1 16.15: Your bottom line and the real cost of lighting — Alan Culverhouse, AVP of store design at TJX Europe/TK Maxx; Peter Earle, business development OEM at Philips Lighting, and Paul Nulty, principle of Paul Nulty Lighting Design.
Retail Design Theatre 2 53
Retail Design Expo
Snapshot of exhibitors On stand E32, Panache Display will show its new mannequin, Skye, created to suspend at high level to add theatre and drama to any retail environment.
11 March 10.00 Multichannel made easy: staying one step ahead — Kevin Gill, managing director at StartJG and Chris Aubrey, global retail director, Dyson.
Retail Design Theatre 2 10.40 Mannequins: everything you need to know about mannequins — Edward Stammers, lecturer and project manager at Rootstein; Kingston College in London; The Fashion Retail Academy.
Visual Merchandising Theatre 12:00: Casting mannequin hands — Tanya Reynolds, creative director at Proportion.London and Rob Patterson, sculptor at Proportion.London. VM Live! 13:00: Finishing faux food — Loraine Krell, creative director at Replica Inc. VM Live! 14:00: VM: the key to solving all retail problems — Tim Radley, managing director at VM Unleashed. Visual Merchandising Theatre 14:45: The art of storytelling at retail — Kate Shepherd, director of strategy & insight at Checkland Kindleysides and William Church, joint managing director at Joseph Cheaney.
Retail Design Theatre 2 15:00: Creating a paper floral spectacle — Zoe Bradley, founder and creative director at Zoe Bradley and Gareth Scourfield, managing director at Zoe Bradley.
VM Live! To find out more about the show and see what companies are exhibiting, visit www.retaildesignexpo.com
When and where Olympia, London Tuesday 10 March 2015
09.30-17.00
Wednesday 11 March 2015
09.30-17.00
RtlDesignExpo #RDE2015 www.retaildesignexpo.com *All information correct at time of going to press
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Signage and retail fixture manufacturer ASG will showcase its range of extruded aluminium systems and professional range of hardwearing coatings in finishes such as concrete, wood, stone and RAL colours. ASG will also launch a new digital signage package with a range of enclosures and displays on stand E40a. Lumitech and Challenger Lighting Services are sharing a stand (F23) and will demonstrate a new way of illuminating changing rooms. The Lumitech PI LED daylight system mimics the daylight outside continually and can be simply adjusted to reflect summer/ winter/restaurant scenes for example. On stand G1, Fairfield Displays will demonstrate new illuminated displays, as well as the latest shelving and signage ideas. The company will also show digital signage soutions with easy-to-use media players and network systems with a choice of screen styles, including new Sunlight Readable Screens and suspended media players. Alongside its high quality displays and signs, W&Co will show new innovations. Being one of the first companies to supply tension fabric systems in the UK, W&Co now has the most extensive range of tension fabric profile options, including flat-pack kit, ceiling, curved face, cubed, circular, shaped and acoustic frames. Visit W&Co to see its new INFINITE 3D light box — stand H62.
Pick up your copy of the latest SDEA Retail Display Directory at stand G25.
products
RETAIL DESIGN EXPO Geaves Surface Solutions Stand E5 Geaves has seen a rise in popularity of colours from primary through to pastel and now a trend towards earthier, heritage colours with greyish hues. This palette can appear cold and uninviting so it’s essential to consider texture and finish to bring them to life and give spaces warmth. Lamigloss is a contemporary high gloss, mirror-effect panel that is available in 30+ plain colours, patterns and wood grains. However, it can be supplied in any one of 300 laminate colours on request, creating one of the widest colour palettes available. T. +44 (0)1245 329 922 E. info@geaves.com www.geaves.com
Applelec - Stand L40 Applelec creates sophisticated fabricated signage and manufactures ground-breaking lighting and display products. Alongside in-house manufacturing, Applelec sources and adapts innovative products to deliver imaginative project solutions to the signage, lighting and display industries. The comany will be displaying its range of signage, display and lighting products. Alongside the popular flat light panel LED Light Sheet, Applelec will show its range of built up and flat cut letters. I-Sign display frames and neon-like product Borderline. T. +44 (0)1274 774 477 E: sales@applelec.co.uk www.applelec.co.uk Twitter: Applelec
Armourcoat - Stand H50 Armourcoat has introduced a new metal finish called Rusteel. It offers an authentic rusted 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 throughout the ArmourFX modular panel system. The ArmourFX range of panels has evolved from Armourcoat’s renowned applied seamless wall finishes. Armourcoat’s specialist designers and artisan plasterers can create integrated custom wall panel systems or design statement single artwork pieces. T. +44 (0)1732 460 668 E. sales@armourcoat.co.uk www.armourcoat.com Twitter: Armourcoat
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Wieland Electric - Stand E70 Wieland Electric will demonstrate the benefits of the new gesis MICRO connector system. gesis MICRO is the ideal solution for connecting discreet LED lighting in display cases or shelving where space is at a premium, so that nothing detracts from the items on display. The gesis MICRO system is so small that it fits into spaces where other connectors can’t go, and only requires a small drilled hole for running the lines through. Easy to install and reconfigure thanks to its plug and play functionality, gesis MICRO is matched to the rest of the versatile gesis family.
T. +44 (01483 531 213 E. sales.uk@ wieland-electric.com www.wieland.co.uk Twitter: WielandElectric
products
Design LED Products - Stand G30 Design LED Products will be highlighting the unique advantages of its technology for shop lighting applications. The Shelf product family is the world’s thinnest shelf lighting solution*. Clyde offers a 2mm thin light tile and Edinburgh is a 6mm thin luminaire for high quality illumination, free from glare and multi-shadow artefacts. These products are easy to install in lengths up to 5m, driven from a single ECG with the option of dimming. Together with the world’s thinnest and most flexible backlighting solutions*, Ness and Lomond, designers can create outstanding possibilities to put products in the best light. Visit the company’ stand for a full demonstration * incorporating Design LED patented technology
T. +44 (0)1506 592 310 E. info@designledproducts.com www.designledproducts.com
Doro Tape UK - Stand H1 Once again, decorative self-adhesive metal effect films supplied by Doro Tape UK have featured strongly in Christmas window displays. Over the years, these films have been used to decorate the Christmas windows of some of the most prestigious stores in London, such as Harvey Nichols and TopShop. Brand new for 2015 is a smooth copper metal effect film. Doro Tape UK will be presenting this film, along with its extensive range of self-adhesive decorative films, at the forthcoming Retail Design Expo on its stand H1, which it has in partnership with Roland DG. T. +44 (0)1858 431 642 E. sales@dorotape.co.uk www.dorotape.co.uk Twitter: doro_tape
Stylographics - Stand F50 Stylo is proud to introduce Linofloor, a cost effective printed solution for large or small floor coverings. It’s ideal for use in retail, window schemes, exhibitions and interiors because of its durability and high quality print finish. Linofloor is easy to install and remove, making it the ideal choice for short or long term schemes. Be sure to visit Stylo at the Retail Design Expo for more information on Linofloor and other products. T. +44 (0)1923 800 666 E: info@stylographics.co.uk www.stylographics.co.uk Twitter: hellostylo
One iota - Stand G32 One iota is a multi-channel retail technology specialist in online, in-store and interactive solutions. Working with some of the UK’s leading brands including JD Sports, Superdry, Mamas & Papas, Quiz Clothing and Very.co.uk, it helps retailers to drive sales and create exceptional shopping experiences for their customers, across multiple channels and devices. Visit the company’s stand to discover the very latest in-store solutions the company is developing to help retailers integrate their online and offline channels, These include: in-store HD kiosks, assistive selling iPads, wall integrated digital signage, beacon technology, iOS and android apps, web apps and interactive apps. T. +44 (0)843 216 1010 E. enquiries@itsoneiota.com www.itsoneiota.com Twitter: itsoneiota
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Selfridges: Bright Old Things
SELFRIDGES: BRIGHT OLD THINGS Selfridges has been celebrating retirement renaissance with a switch on its annual Bright Young Things initiative with a new line up of Bright Old Things.
Tim Bushe
Sue Kreitzman
Tony Gibson
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In a twist on its annual Bright Young Things scheme, Selfridges readjusted the lens with which we view exciting, new and creative talent, removing age restrictions and, this time round, celebrating Bright Old Things. Running from 8 January to the end of February, Bright Old Things focuses on 14 individuals with ages ranging from late 40s to mid-80s. They were chosen to take part on the basis that they have undergone a retirement renaissance, a complete career change or an inspiring step into the unknown. The compelling line-up includes an ex-chartered accountant who became an artist in his 60s, an architect-turned-topiarist, and a product designer who has become a YouTube sensation with his vlog, Earth News For Space. Each participant was given a dedicated Oxford Street window with which to give the million people who pass by them every week an intimate insight into their creative visions. Special events spotlighting their work are taking place throughout the event, including a special programme for London Collections: Men, whilst products from selected Bright Old Things are being sold in-store and online. Linda Hewson, Selfridges creative director, says: ‘One of the things we pride ourselves on is telling great stories. How better to start the year than by celebrating 14 of them? As a centenary-old department store, which has been successfully reinventing itself over and over again, it made so much sense for us to shine a light on the wealth of talent and experience harnessed by bright older creatives. These people can definitely teach us all a thing or two about growing old whilst staying young at heart and relevant.’ Since 2011, Selfridges’ annual Bright Young Things initiative has established itself as an exciting showcase, which includes alumni such as fashion talents Simone Rocha and Astrid Andersen, set designers Rhea Thierstein and Anna Lomax, and haute coiffure designer Charlie le Mindu.
Selfridges: Bright Old Things
Roger Miles
Den Woods
Robert Roope
Bruno Wizard
Nick Wooster
Andrew Ekins
Molly Parkin
William Forbes-Hamilton
Michael Lisle-Taylor
Sand Laurenson
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opinion
THE PRICE OF NON-COMPLIANCE A greater focus is needed on quality installation and maintenance to ensure retailers and brands get maximum return from the investment they make in their shop fittings, says Colin Chapman, operations director at CJ Retail Solutions. Implementing a point of purchase campaign in stores often involves investing in what can be quite costly POS displays. Therefore, it’s imperative that this investment works as hard as possible to provide maximum return. To do this, the absolute highest levels of compliance need to be achieved — displays should be project managed, installed and maintained perfectly and totally on brief. Non-compliance impacts on your bottom line in more ways than one. If displays are not installed correctly they will not achieve what they were designed to do. In addition, while pristine, good quality fixtures can increase both sales and customer loyalty, broken and badly fitted displays do the opposite. Faulty or damaged displays can create a negative impression of a store or brand. With compliance rates for in-store marketing projects averaging at around 60 per cent, it’s clear that a greater focus is needed on quality installation and maintenance to ensure that retailers and brands get maximum return from the investment they make in their shop fittings. There are a number of key factors that can help to deliver a successful implementation that achieves high compliance levels and impressive sales uplift in both the short and long term.
Plan ahead All in-store campaigns should be planned with implementation in mind, right from the concept and design stage. If they’re not properly thought through from the outset and very carefully actioned, the installation of POS projects can cause significant disruption to trade and result in the loss of valuable sales. The effect of this is not always just short-term either — as retailers will be aware there are potentially long-term implications of a poor customer experience.
Balance design with practicality Involving an installation expert at the design stage can prevent potential logistical and health and safety issues impacting on your campaign. In addition, a specialist will be able to suggest small adjustments that could mean you are able to fit more displays into the vans that will be used for delivering them to site, which can dramatically reduce your transport costs. Specialists will also be able to tell you if your proposed design is robust enough for the retail environment it is intended for and easy to keep clean.
Trials and pre-auditing Even with the best planning and expert input, you can’t fully predict how POS will perform in a real life store setting. Trials should therefore be run in a number of different stores. This will give you an idea of how well displays cope in an actual retail environment and enable you to identify and deal with any assembly or access issues. Our access audit for the Boots
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Christmas 2014 campaign highlighted a problem with fitting the displays into the lifts in-store. Because we were aware of the problem prior to the roll out, we could make sure it didn’t impact on the installation.
Implementation Implementation is the engine room of your campaign and how well it’s done is often a deciding factor in whether customers have a good or bad experience in store — poorly installed or incorrectly positioned POS will dramatically reduce its ability to drive sales. A successful implementation hinges on preparation, robust logistics and excellent planning and organisation. Your installation partner should co-ordinate all aspects of the implementation and report back to you in real time so you know exactly what has happened, when and what the finished installation looks like in every store.
Maintenance and servicing The installation is the first stage, not the last, in ensuring that displays are 100 per cent compliant and will realise their full potential. It’s essential that POS stays looking its best for the duration of its in-store life. Again, organisation is key, especially for retailers with a large estate. We recommend detailed scheduling, which we deliver for brands like Samsung, to ensure existing displays are maintained to a high standard at all times and provide ongoing value for money from your maintenance budget. With every penny invested in an in-store campaign needing to count, display compliance needs to be at the top of every retailer and brand’s agenda. Giving careful consideration to these five elements will help them to avoid the average, mediocre compliance rates we generally see today and also deliver campaigns that secure sales uplift, customer loyalty and an impressive return on investment.
www.cjretailsolutions.co.uk
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Retail Supplies from Morplan display props shopfittings carrier bags ticketing mannequins & more
● ● ● ● ●
QUALITY YOU DEMAND. PRICES YOU ENJOY. SERVICE YOU EXPECT.
0800 45 11 22 morplan.com Stores in London, Bristol & Glasgow
products
FLOORING + SURFACES Karndean Designflooring Karndean Designflooring is expanding its successful collection and unveiling a new point of sale unit as part of its LooseLay Series Three launch. Available from March 2015, the six new sophisticated wood designs tap into the trend for popular oak tones, fashionable rustics and deep greys. With a 15 year residential guarantee, the complete Karndean LooseLay collection will now feature 19 wood designs and eight stone tiles. Inspired by nature, the collection features a wide range of tones. T. +44 (0)1386 820 100 E. commercial@karndean.co.uk www.karndean.com Twitter: KarndeanComm
Polyflor Polyflor’s Expona Design range of luxury vinyl flooring tiles has been used to create a bold black and white herringbone design at Crowning Glorie hair salon in Bristol. Installed by Bristol Flooring, 46 sq m of Expona Design PUR luxury vinyl tiles were used to create this statement floor. The contemporary chevron effect was created by using Expona Design flooring in the contrasting colours of Black Elm 6183 and White Oak 6185 to match the salon’s signature monochrome style. The high performance range is ideal for use in regular footfall areas like retail and commercial areas. The collection features 28 design options including authentic wood and stone effects with surface embossing. T. +44 (0)161 767 1111 E: info@polyflor.com www.polyflor.com Twitter: Polyflorltd
EGGER UK EGGER UK 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; 45 wood grains 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 specifically for doors and two decors which are new for 2015: H3450 ST36 White Fleetwood and H3451 ST36 Champagne Fleetwood. A further 46 decors are available from EGGER’s European stock collection to provide architects and specifiers with a whole range of design solutions. The standard door size laminates in the range are 2,150mm x 950mm. Other sheet sizes are also available. T. +44 (0)1434 602 191 E. zoom.uk@egger.com www.egger.com
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Polyflor Polyflor has launched Expona Flow, a collection of 50 heavy commercial sheet vinyl flooring designs launched under the renowned Expona brand. Expona Flow is available in a 2m-wide sheet format with a 2mm guage and 0.7mm wear layer. Authentically replicating natural wood planks from a diverse range of tree species and wood treatments, combined with innovative abstract and fantastical materials, a vast range of colour and pattern combinations are available. T. +44 (0)161 767 1111 E: info@polyflor.com www.polyflor.com Twitter: Polyflorltd
products
LIGHTING Reggiani Lighting Dalziel & Pow has created an all-LED store experience at The White Company in Norwich, featuring LED luminaires from Reggiani. Fittings used 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
Atrium 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)20 7681 9933 E. sales@atrium.ltd.uk www.atrium.ltd.uk Twitter: Atrium_ltd
Nualight Nualight has launched a new ultra-light LED high bay solution with smarter design for large-scale industrial and retail applications — the Arc LED high bay. The smarter design of Nualight’s Arc family solves the industry’s biggest high bay lighting issues and generates more energy savings and profit for both installers and end users. With excellent lighting performance and on-board smart controls, Arc also creates healthier, safer and more productive workspaces with tailored light levels and user friendly dimming. T. +353 862432931 E. sodwyer@nualight.com www.nualight.com Twitter: @Nualight
RIDI Lighting RIDI Lighting’s LINIA FLAT has been installed at Volkswagon’s De Kimpe dealership in Brussels. The smooth but powerful focused light from the LINIA FLAT provides the best light to showcase the vehicles, whilst at the same time improving the building’s energy efficiency. The simple design of the fitting means that there is no visual clutter on the ceiling and keeps the customers’ attention on the cars displayed below. The precise white light from the wide beam spreads an even light across the vehicles, creating a clean and bright appearance throughout the showroom. The energy saving capabilities of the LINIA FLAT fitting has allowed De Kimpe to achieve an estimated power saving of 4.8KW per hour and helped to build on a new green image for the showroom and the company. LINIA FLAT also offers low maintenance performance. T. +44 (0)1279 450 882 E. enquiries@ridi.co.uk www.ridi.co.uk
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products
SELECTION Zumtobel The INTRO Modular LED lighting system provides maximum LED efficiency and flexibility. It creates individual lighting using innovative technology and provides the ideal accent lighting with a range that assures a complete lighting solution. There are four models: INTRO M and INTRO S for accent lighting; INTRO PANOS infinity for light that efficiently provides brightness in the room; INTRO liteCarve that uses patented reflector technology to ensure both uniform illumination to vertical surfaces but also produces a rectangular lighting cone, and lastly the INTRO RESCLITE emergency luminaires. Visit Zumtobel at Retail Design Expo on stand J61. T. +44 (0)1388 420 042 E. LightCentreUK@zumtobelgroup.com www.zumtobel.com Twitter: Zumtobeluk
bbrown bbrown is an expert in providing creative display materials to clients across the globe in retail, exhibitions, TV, film and events. Its stock product range includes innovative materials such as glitter fabric, 3D illusion film, PVC, decorative 3D tiles and light enhancing panels; ideal for creating wowfactor displays. bbrown Glitter, one of the company’s most popular special finishes, is ideal for adding glamour to any environment. It’s available in two different finishes and a large range of colours to suit most requirements, including pink, gold, green, red, blue, white, black, purple, silver and bronze. T. +44 (0)8705 340 340 E: customerservices @bbrown.co.uk www.bbrown.co.uk Twitter: luvbbrown
STANLEY Security STANLEY Security has launched the Stanley Guard personal alarm safety system, a Smartphone application that provides personal security and assists in protecting potentially vulnerable people. These could include lone workers or any person who could be at risk within their working environment. Compatible with devices working on Apple, Android, Blackberry and Windows Operating Systems, With one ‘Shake’ or ‘Slide’ on the activated app, an alert is sent to the Stanley Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) with the user’s exact GPS location and live video/audio to enable the trained operator to review the data to verify the alert. They will then call the user to ensure the user’s safety. If there’s no answer or there’s evidence to suggest a threat to that person, the pre-set alarm escalation contacts - or the emergency services if the situation is dangerous enough - will be immediately called. T. +44 (0)844 254 0032 www.stanleyguard.eu Twitter: STANLEYSecurity
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Movetech UK Movetech UK’s Small Carousel range comprises versatile and reliable mains powered display turntables, ideal for creating compact window and counter displays. The Small Carousel collection includes the popular Mini Carousel, the B25 range and B200 line. All are well suited to generating simple, full circular platform displays. They can also be combined with other movements in the company’s portfolio or, for instance, imaginative lighting effects to create something really special to stop customers in their tracks. T. +44 (0)1204 525 626 E. info@movetechuk.com www.movetechuk.com Twitter: MovetechUK
products
BARTHELMESS Off the shelf With its Decorado catalogues, Barthelmess offers a comprehensive selection of trend oriented design products, themed decorating concepts and a wide range of decorating materials — in stock, reliable and fast. Everything a retailer requires to create windows and in-store displays throughout the year. Items include mannequins to props, store and display essentials to visual merchandising fixtures, lighting and point of sale solutions. The Decorado catalogue is updated twice a year for spring/summer and autumn/winter (including Christmas). T. +44 (0) 1234 241 822 E: lucie@barthelmessuk.com www.barthelmessuk.com
Visualisation and concept design Perhaps you need a themed or bespoke scheme to reflect your brand, or an inspiring window display? Whatever the brief, B.UK can design and manufacture a solution for you. The company can take your ideas and turn them into a 2D or 3D reality, regardless of project size or complexity, B.UK’s showrooms are always available to visit, full of inspirational ideas. T. +44 (0)1438 724 065 E. info@barthelmessuk.com www.barthelmessuk.com
Global manufacturing and logistics BarthelmessUK Concept & Design is developing concepts for visual merchandising displays, from the display window to the POS, for retail brands and department stores as well as shopping centres, railway stations and airports, as a creative agency. In the 2,000 sq m showroom, Barthelmess offers a glimpse of its creative laboratory and presents the latest trends in 3D. T. +44 (0)1438 724 065 E. info@barthelmessuk.com www.barthelmessuk.com Twitter: buk_vm
Fashion mannequins CNL mannequins from B.UK has become trusted by some of the world’s best known brands, including House of Fraser, Marks & Spencer, Guess, Levi’s, Uniglo, Adidas and Tommy Hilfiger to name just a few. CNL produces high quality and fashionable mannequins in both fiberglass and recyclable polyurethane in a huge variety of styles and finishes. With a focus on innovative design, CNL mannequins offer significant cost savings without compromising on quality, backed up with full UK customer service. The company can make and customise a range of mannequins and forms unique to your brand. T. +44 (0)1438 724 065 E. info@barthelmessuk.com www.cnlmannequins.com
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Focus on: Props
focus on: Props Props add value, interest and fun to windows and displays, creating a talking point for customers. Feast your eyes on these props that have caught our eye recently.
Eclectic mix
Love is in the air These hanging heart display shelves from Graham Sweet Studios are available as hanging decorations at 380mm, 580mm and 877mm in size. Larger hearts can be produced on request, and can either be glittered in one colour or have a different inner and outer colour of glitter. They’re ideal for Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day.
www.grahamsweet.com
FormRoom worked alongside Ted Baker to create 23 triangular panels for the brand’s Toronto store, inspired by Burlington Arcade in London. FormRoom was asked to come up with interesting ways to display all manner of props for six different areas, dedicating space to oversized pieces and customised with the coral pink accent colour. Fixed with an eclectic collection of items varying in scale and period, each panel was treated with a finish to suit the individual display. Items ranged from cookie cutters to watch mechanisms, vintage magazines to poly-carved specs, copper pipe sculptures to fake pouring tea.
www.formroom.com
Enchanted world For Selfridges’ Snow White window at Christmas, Elemental Design transformed this once blue horse into a majestic unicorn complete with a mane of flowing pink locks and a striking lit horn. Nestled at the male mannequin’s feet are piles of tempting blood-red apples atop a golden sledge, designed and handcrafted in Elemental’s workshop.
www.elemental.co.uk
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Focus on: Props
Injection of colour Harlequin Design equipped Charles Tyrwhitt’s windows with a bespoke set of props. These were painted in carefully selected colours that were pulled from the retailer’s tie collection. The main features are the life-sized phone boxes, post boxes, lamp posts and a traditional British men’s bike. High-end luxury furniture pieces were also sourced, which sit in the windows for the duration of the scheme.
www.harlequin-design.com
Play the game PLANarama produced fun, over-sized dice and Rubik’s cubes for Schuh’s flagship stores as part of its Christmas 2014 windows. As well as hanging in the windows, the props also made handy display plinths for shoes, and were made from MDF with a lacquered finish.
www.planarama.com
Star of wonder Bartle Bogle Hegarty commissioned Minki Balinki to create the 2014 Christmas windows for Audi City London. Minki Balinki created these illuminated stars, which came to life at night. Five bespoke stars were suspended, one in each of Audi City’s showroom windows. Each star measured 1.8m in diameter and comprised five remote control Audi R8s which were applied to the front face of each star. Each R8 was fitted with illuminated directional light representing headlights, with additional lighting coming from within each star.
www.minkibalinki.com
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Opening a new store ? We can supply all your needs in just one delivery... saving you money! Vist our online shop with over a thousand products available and in stock or call our Sales Team today
• Distribution • Shop fittings • Bespoke design • Display systems • Mannequins • Point of sale • Printed bags • Printed hangers
Call now 0844 8009 305 www.theretailfactory.co.uk
The Retail Factory provide a unique...
source · store · deliver “Our team of warehouse professionals will accurately pack the items you require for delivery, getting you everything you need, when you need it and where you need it.”
source · Consolidating your order process
· · · · ·
Store opening and closure service... We can now offer retailers a way to consolidate and simplify the process of new store set-up, the refurbishment of existing stores and the closure of any unwanted locations. Our service removes the organisational and logistical burden during a new store opening, significantly decreasing the stress, hassle and cost involved, allowing you to shift your focus onto the more crucial issues relating to establishing a successful retail environment. We will source all the products you need for your store openings, supplying everything you require from our retail, stationary and back office range of over 40,000 products. We organise the delivery of the items centrally into our 25,000 square foot warehouse, to be stored ready for dispatch to your locations, on the dates you specify. Before dispatch, all the items needed for a particular store are picked and packed onto pallets for delivery to you simultaneously, significantly reducing onsite traffic and the confusion that can be caused by multiple drops from several different suppliers.
Save hassle of dealing with multiple suppliers Significant cost savings Reduce your financial outlay on the project One point of contact for all matters relating to your order Invoicing and administration streamlined
store · · · ·
Central storage point for all your items Delivered direct to our warehouse and stored until needed Deliveries unpacked, checked and inventoried Picked and packed on a store by store basis
deliver · Delivering on demand · No ordering in bulk · Distributing to stores, only when required · Fewer deliveries
store closures · · · · ·
Help in the event of store closure Organise pick up, sorting and secure storage of equipment Recycling and disposal of unwanted and damaged items Collect directly and transport to our warehouse Undamaged items inventoried, repacked and stored
Talk to us today call 0844 8009 305 or email enquiries@theretailfactory.co.uk
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
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. T +44 (0)20 8348 9888 E: mail@rarebasic.com W: www.rarebasic.com S: www.twitter.com/rarebasic
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
Creative agency JUSTSO was launched by Stuart Henry, after working his way up the career ladder and deciding to branch out and focus on luxury retail design. Here he talks recent projects, memorable schemes and what key ingredients make a successful retail scheme. RF. When was JUSTSO launched? SH. JUSTSO was launched almost eight years ago. After working my way up to managing director level at a leading creative design agency, I left to pursue my own venture. RF. How did you get into the retail design sector? SH. I began working as a project manager at a design agency and this gave me the opportunity to work first-hand in the industry. I learnt a great deal, worked on fantastic projects and eventually served as the managing director. I then decided to start JUSTSO to focus on my own interests, specialising in luxury retail. RF. What schemes has JUSTSO recently completed? SH. We have just completed projects with Chanel, Cartier, Faberge and Harrods — the Christmas windows and the Grotto. We have been fortunate to be able to continuously demonstrate our core strengths of design and project management on such memorable schemes for really outstanding clients and brands. RF. What memorable retail schemes stand out for you?
York, all of which offer a vast landscape of ever-changing inspiration much like London, I pay close attention to schemes and installations wherever I am — from hotel interiors, bars and social spaces to exhibitions and department stores. I always try to squeeze in some time to do a reconciliation of what other brands and design agencies are implementing in various cities. RF. What would you say are the key ingredients for a successful retail scheme? SH. Clever design, witty storytelling, flawless production and clear communication.
SH. I was honoured to design and work on the implementation of the Queen’s Jubilee exteriors at Harrods, which was an incredible experience and one that doesn’t arise all that often. Drawing on inspiration from the Queen’s Coronation in 1953, the façade featured Union flags and 50ft tall regal banners heralding the Queen’s Royal Cypher and St. Edwards Crown. It was a multi-faceted experience from the exterior cladding of the store, interior aspects and a scheme at Harrod’s T5. Inspiration for the windows was drawn from The Queen’s Coronation and they showcased 31 crowns from the world’s leading designers. Being able to work with an array of esteemed talent, from Paul Smith, Mulberry and Jo Malone to Valentino, Bulgari and De Beers, was a privilege for our team. It’s culmination into a public celebration with thousands of people in the streets of Knightsbridge was really an unforgettable historic experience and a clear demonstration of how design and retail can contribute to creating a world class theatrical experience and a national story.
RF. What trends in retail design/VM do you predict for 2015?
RF. Where do you get your inspiration from?
SH. Without revealing too much — as it most certainly is a mustsee — we’re honoured to be working with Swarovski on a really exciting project at its Crystal World in Austria, which showcases the largest collection of Swarovski products in the world and is a truly dazzling space. We’re very excited to be supporting its relaunch as the brand rebuilds and enhances the experience, which reopens in April 2015.
SH. My inspiration comes from all visual elements including fashion, interior design and architecture. One of the benefits of travelling to install global campaigns and meet with clients is the exposure to trends all over the world. Having travelled extensively to Hong Kong, Shanghai, the Middle East and New
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SH. As with a great deal of design for the coming year, I predict that the use of burgeoning technology is going to be one of the key trends. The scope that these developing tools provide is so vast and exciting. For example, we created 3D printed signature motifs for Chanel’s exterior on New Bond Street at Christmas and the results were terrific. It further pushes the bounds of creativity and ways in which we can create exceptional results across the entire industry. Visually, I think the use of lighting will also be a key trend. Though it’s a frequent one it’s for good reason, as when used creatively it contributes a timeless aesthetic that can really elevate a scheme and communicate that wow-factor to clients and customers. Lastly, interactive and sensory elements may also feature heavily in retail design and VM this year as we all look to engage in more innovative ways. RF. What is JUSTSO working on at the moment?