Retail Focus Magazine #130

Harrods Holiday & Occasion Rooms: A Testament to Excellence with umdasch The Store Makers

LAST CHANCE TO ENTER

Deadline Extended: Submit your entries into our expertly curated categories by the deadline of 19th April 2024.

Serious about winning

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

www.creativeretailawards.com

#creativeretailawards

HELLO...

Given the somewhat inclement weather we have been experiencing in recent weeks, one could be forgiven for mistaking April for January. Still, then evenings are becoming lighter, and the days are certainly getting longer, with the green shoots of spring now starting to show.

Of course, with spring comes one of the highlights on the industry’s annual calendar in the VM & Display Show. This year’s event takes place from 16-17 April at the Business Design Centre in London, with attendees set to gain valuable insight into how visual merchandising and displays can help transform their stores.

This month, we have a special preview of the 2024 event, picking out just some of the many highlights that visitors can look forward to in London. From innovative exhibitors to thought provoking conferences and workshops, there will be plenty to see and do across the two days.

Other special features this issue include a focused article on visual merchandising, where we speak with specialists in this sector to find out how retailers can use these tools to improve their stores and drive business growth. On the subject of enhancing the appeal of shops, we also look at the impact lighting can have on modernising stores and similar environments.

Elsewhere, we speak with Graeme Hoole, managing director of The Sign Group, about just how difficult sustainability is in the sign industry, and how this relates to retail. We also cast an eye over the emerging relationship between luxury retail and blockchain and what this could mean for the future of this market.

As always, we celebrate some of the latest and most eye-catching work within the retail sector around the

world. Highlights this month include Delamibrands, one of the leading fashion retailer groups in Indonesia, and its new store concept for Executive at Puri Mall Jakarta.

There is also an insight into Melissa & Doug’s first-ever retail store in White Plains, New York, as well as a look at menswear brand Moss and its successful return to the Scottish market with the launch of a new store in Edinburgh.

In addition, while Easter has only just come and gone, we cast our minds back further to the Christmas season, celebrating Harrods’ decision to open up two new womenswear rooms dedicated to occasionwear and swimwear.

With all this and so much more, including the latest news from across the world of retail, there is plenty to get your teeth in this month’s issue.

If you are visiting the VM & Display Show this month, drop in on the Retail Focus stand and say hello to the team! Lee

VM & DISPLAY SHOW

BDC LONDON | 16 & 17 APRIL 2024

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

www.vmanddisplayshow.com

RETAIL TECHNOLOGY SHOW

OLYMPIA, LONDON | 24 & 25 APRIL 2024

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

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

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

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

FUTR EUROPE

LONDON | 30 APRIL 2024

FUTR is Europe’s only Summit focused on fresh thinking and progressive change in the future of retail, marketing and commerce. Our attendees have told us it is “the ONLY retail and marketing event they attend all year.”

FUTR is the annual gathering of senior executives from brands, retailers, corporates, marketplaces & D2C who want to stay at the cutting-edge of insights, technologies and solutions across retail, marketing and commerce. FUTR is a watering hole for future-focused leaders who want to see “what’s next” and understand how to bridge the gap between “now and next”.

futr.today/london/about/

SHOPTALK

FIRA GRAN VIA, BARCELONA | 3 - 5 JUNE 2024

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

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

www.shoptalkeurope.com

MAPIC

CANNES, FRANCE | 26 - 28

NOVEMBER 2024

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

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

www.mapic.com

THE CREATIVE RETAIL AWARDS

LONDON TBC | SEPTEMBER 2024

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

www.creativeretailawards.com

CHARITY SUPER.MKT TO OPEN DEBUT OUTLET STORE AT GLOUCESTER QUAYS

Peel has announced that Charity Super.Mkt, the UK’s first-ever multi-charity shop, is set to open its next pop-up at premier southwest urban outlet Gloucester Quays. The 4,000 sq ft store will launch at the outlet on March 14th, introducing its popular ‘second-hand department store’ concept to a key entrance off High Orchard Street.

Charity Super.Mkt will bring together a curated collection of pre-loved fashion and accessories, including vintage denim, sports- and streetwear. Working closely with some of the UK’s most loved charities and several local operations, Charity Super.Mkt Gloucester Quays will introduce a rolling rotation of organisations throughout the duration of the pop-up, in order to cater to the high demand for space at the store. Charities will include Havens Hospices, Longfield Hospice, Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, National Star, Traid and Acorn.

ATRIA WATFORD WELCOMES HOBBS STORE

• In prime location in Charter Place – which is now fully let for first time since completion of development in 2019

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

Hobbs’ new store will showcase the brand’s latest collection, blending timeless style with a British sensibility. Designed to cater for all life’s moments, it offers everyday, workwear and occasion outfits – with selected styles available in sizes 6-22 and petite. In addition, the store offers a personal styling service with a team of stylists who are experts at providing perfect, flattering outfit solutions for every customer.

TOUCHWOOD 98.5% LET FOLLOWING OLIVER BONAS ARRIVAL

• Fashion, jewellery, homeware and gifts retailer signs at Solihull destination

• Latest big-brand signing brings Touchwood to close to full occupancy

Touchwood shopping centre is approaching full occupancy following the arrival of Oliver Bonas at the Solihull destination.

The fashion, jewellery, homeware and gifts brand has taken a ten-year lease of unit 26 within the Mill Lane Arcade area of the scheme, totalling 3,015 sq ft.

The latest letting brings Touchwood to 98.5% let, and further strengthens what is already the region’s leading retail line-up. Notable new brands at Touchwood over the past year include Mango, Levi Strauss & Co, Mint Velvet and Dune, joining existing blue-chip names such as Apple, John Lewis, Zara, Tag Heuer and Rituals.

FABB FURNITURE’S FIRST NOTTINGHAM STORE OPENED ITS DOORS ON FRIDAY, MARCH 15, AT CASTLE MARINA RETAIL PARK

Bensons For Beds, offering locals the ultimate home comforts and experience.

To mark the occasion, a Grand Opening Sale and Celebration Savings took place at the store, providing customers with a warm welcome.

Laura Chiddey, Home Interiors Expert at Fabb Furniture, said: “We’re thrilled to announce the opening of our latest store in Nottingham. While we have existing stores in nearby locations in Leicester, Lincoln, and Rotherham, this will be our first time in the city - we hope locals are just as excited as we are.

“We’re delighted to offer the Grand Opening Sale and Celebration Savings to welcome the new store - these will see top offers on our furniture and prices slashed on favourite pieces. Despite 21 existing stores nationwide, opening a new one remains a milestone of ours and is a testament to our loyal customers. Thank you for the support. We welcome you to our new store and look forward to seeing you visit.”

Fabb Furniture’s new Nottingham store opened at 10 am on Friday, March 15 at Unit 9b, Castle Marina Retail Park, Castle Bridge Rd, Nottingham NG7 1GX.

BRAEHEAD EXPANDS F&B OFFER –WITH CHOPSTIX

• News follows recent Tinderbox opening

• Demand for prime space from F&B remains strong

• New additions will enhance customer choice

Braehead, one of the UK’s most popular retail and leisure destinations, owned by property company SGS and managed by Global Mutual, is pleased to announce the expansion of its F&B offer with the opening of Chopstix, closely following the addition of Tinderbox.

Chopstix opened its doors yesterday. The popular noodle bar has stores across the UK and Ireland and now occupies a 1,318 sq ft unit located in the upper food mall. The store offers Pan-Asian quick-service food.

Tinderbox, which opened its doors in December, is one of Glasgow’s best loved independent coffee shops, founded locally in 1998. The espresso bar is situated on the lower-level food mall, covering 2,731 sq ft. Visitors can enjoy high quality handroasted coffee, as well as a number of locally sourced and made products.

The two additions join a strong existing F&B line-up at the centre, including Five Guys, Nandos, YO! Sushi, Costa, Pizza Hut and Prezzo.

Braehead is a leading retail and leisure destination situated just outside of Glasgow, covering 1.1 million sq ft and drawing from a catchment of approximately 2.1 million. The centre is home to a diverse mix of brands – including many renowned household names, such as M&S, Apple, Primark, TK Maxx and NEXT – as well as a host of exciting local and independent brands.

REVO OPENS SUNGLASS STORE IN THE HEART OF MANHATTAN’S SOHO DISTRICT

Opening March 13th, Revo SoHo Gives Customers a Chance to Experience the Brand’s Full Range of Cool and Iconic Sunglass Styles Firsthand

NEW YORK, March 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Revo, the premium, high-quality, performance sunglass company, announced today the opening of its first U.S. brick-and-mortar retail store in Manhattan’s fashionable SoHo neighborhood. The retail showroom is located at 436 West Broadway, one of the district’s most popular shopping areas.

The recently completed store will introduce an exclusive and engaging shopping experience to both loyal Revo enthusiasts and those discovering the iconic brand for the first time. Once inside, visitors will be greeted by a series of attractive displays showcasing the complete spectrum of Revo’s offerings, all of which feature the brand’s signature NASA-based lens technology. Customers can discover and try on Revo’s full array of lifestyle and performance styles for both men and women, including those produced through exciting collaborations with Hall of Fame golfer Annika Sorenstam and Alpine skiing icon Bode Miller. Custom prescription sunglasses, limited edition styles, and collector’s items will also be offered in the store.

NESPRESSO UK ENTERS ON-THE-GO COFFEE MARKET WITH NEW COFFEE SHOP: THE NESPRESSO BAR

• On-the-go format introduced to Nespresso’s UK consumers for the first time

• The Nespresso Bar is located in London’s Liverpool Street area with the ambition to expand to further locations in the UK at a later date

• Operating with Nespresso Professional technology, Londoners can choose from one of five iconic blends

London, 21st March 2024 – Nespresso UK has entered the on-the-go coffee market with the launch of a new coffee shop concept titled ‘The Nespresso Bar’ at a location close to Liverpool Street station in central London.

The location has been carefully selected for Nespresso’s first entry into the on-the-go coffee market, positioned in the UK’s busiest commuter hub[1]. The capital’s coffee culture continues to flourish, with coffee officially overtaking tea as the nation’s favourite drink in 2023.

This is a strategic move for Nespresso, which currently offers consumers two at-home portioned coffee systems, Vertuo and Original. With 80% of coffee drinkers visiting a coffee shop at least once a week in the UK[2], and over 12.8 billion cups of coffee consumed outside the home last year[3]. The Nespresso Bar is a new way for coffee lovers to engage with the brand.

UNIBAIL-RODAMCO-WESTFIELD TO LAUNCH THE SECOND EDITION OF THE WESTFIELD GOOD FESTIVAL

Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) announces the launch of the second edition of the Westfield Good Festival, an annual event to showcase the positive steps brands are making in the environmental transition. The event aims to inspire and support consumers who want to live more sustainably and give back to their communities.

Following the success of last year’s event, the Westfield Good Festival will this year expand to the US, with events happening in April and May across the Group’s 38 Westfield-branded shopping centres in Europe and the US.

The UK festival will take place across both London centres, kicking off at Westfield Stratford City from the 3rd to 6th May, followed by a packed agenda at Westfield London from the 16th to 19th May.

CAPTAIN’S CHOICE: UK GENTLEMAN’S GROOMING BRAND LAUNCHES IN INDIA

• Captain Fawcett will distribute his range of simply ‘First Class Gentleman’s Grooming Requisites’ to include Moustache Waxes, Beard Balms, Hair Pomades, Shaving products and Parfums across the country in a deal expected to grow to a six-figure revenue.

• India is expected to be the third largest economy by 2027 with 95 million middle class consumers by 2035.

• The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) helped Captain Fawcett make the move, and is encouraging other SMEs to take advantage of the massive trade opportunity India represents.

Premium men’s grooming brand Captain Fawcett is set to expand into India, landing in an industry that reached US$ 2.1 billion in 20231. The business expects the India opportunity to grow to a six-figure revenue in the next few years.

The business, headquartered in King’s Lynn, Norfolk, was founded by Richie Finney following two decades working in the British film industry. After making Moustache Wax at home for personal use, his jars made their way onto movie sets where make-up artists were impressed by their staying power, and the brand began to grow to include Beard Oil, Beard Balm and Shaving Creams.

ELEMIS TO OPEN FIRST LONDON STORE IN SEVEN DIALS, JOINING COVENT GARDEN’S UNRIVALLED COSMETICS AND WELLNESS LINE-UP

Shaftesbury Capital, a founding patron of the British Beauty Council, has announced that global beauty pioneer, ELEMIS, has selected Covent Garden’s Seven Dials for its first standalone store in London. Set to open at 23 Monmouth Street, ELEMIS will join the neighbourhood’s wide selection of wellness brands, following the resounding success of its Cleansing Lab Pop-Up in Covent Garden’s Piazza last year. The upcoming entrance of the British skin wellness brand emphasises Covent Garden’s prominence in attracting a diverse range of leading brands and reinforces its position as a forerunner in the UK’s cosmetics and beauty landscape.

An internationally renowned premium skincare brand with a legacy of over 30 years of expertise and multiple accolades for innovative approaches to beauty, ELEMIS will open a c.1,000sq ft unit. It will feature its thoughtfully formulated range of skincare, grounded in a foundation of aromatherapy and rigorously tested and backed by clinical trials to deliver maximum efficacy and help protect, restore, and renew skin health.

TRILUX ILLUMINATES LEROY MERLIN STREFA WNĘTRZ STORE

UK March 2024 – As a leading provider of technical lighting solutions, TRILUX continues to demonstrate its innovative expertise with the successful modernisation of the Leroy Merlin Strefa Wnętrz store. Situated in Warsaw Poland, this project not only achieved enhanced energy efficiency but also transformed the space into a welcoming environment for both customers and employees.

Established in 2010, the Leroy Merlin Strefa Wnętrz store embarked on a journey to update its lighting design to meet contemporary standards and norms. Collaborating with TRILUX, the project underwent meticulous planning and execution, showcasing an out-of-the-box approach to lighting solutions.

BRAEHEAD APPOINTS NEW CENTRE DIRECTOR

Braehead, one of the UK’s most popular retail and leisure destinations, owned by property company SGS and managed by Global Mutual in conjunction with Savills as property managers, is pleased to announce that Ashley Bisland has been appointed as Centre Director.

Ashley first joined the Braehead team in December 2022 as Deputy Centre Director, with over 12 years of experience at Savills – specialising in shopping centre management. She has a proven track record in terms of placemaking, destination marketing and in providing compelling guest experiences. Ashley has been successfully managing the site since February 2024. She has lived locally since she was a child.

Braehead is a leading retail and leisure destination situated just outside of Glasgow, covering 1.1 million sq ft and drawing from a catchment of approximately 2.1 million. The centre is home to a diverse mix of brands –including many renowned household names, such as M&S, Apple, Primark, TK Maxx and NEXT – as well as a host of exciting local and independent brands.

SHAFTESBURY

DANISH HOMEWARE BRAND, SØSTRENE GRENE, TO MAKE DEBUT AT FESTIVAL PLACE

Sovereign Centros from CBRE has announced that Danish homeware retailer, Søstrene Grene, is set to open at Festival Place, one of the UK’s top 25 retail and leisure destinations. The popular lifestyle brand will make its Hampshire debut this year, bolstering Festival Place’s position as a key regional hub for fast-growing, sought-after brands.

Søstrene Grene Festival Place will deliver the family-owned brand’s range of Scandinavian-inspired homeware and gifts. Showcasing its signature emphasis on aesthetics, quality and accessibility, the concept will offer products ranging from furniture, soft furnishings, textiles, and kitchenware, all at an affordable price point. Art supplies, stationery, children’s toys and occasion-based accessories will also be on offer, with the selection of products updated weekly. The 14,546 sq ft unit will feature the brand’s characteristic pared-back store design, taking inspiration from its Nordic roots with a neutral wood backdrop to contrast with its brightly coloured array of products.

The signing of Søstrene Grene follows the announcement that local homeware and gifts retailer, Fig and Fox, has opened at Festival Place, following a successful pop-up at the destination at the end of 2023. The launch of the Hampshire-based brand aligns with the destination’s commitment to supporting local brands.

Lunson Mitchenall and GCW represent Festival Place.

CAPITAL CELEBRATES SUCCESSFUL PARTNERSHIP WITH SMART WORKS AS MONEY RAISED PASSES £200,000

Shaftesbury Capital is celebrating the success of its long-term support for Smart Works, the UK charity, with its fourth pop-up across the West End portfolio having taken donations past £200,000 to date.

Smart Works, a UK charity that exists to give women the confidence they need to reach their full potential, secure employment, and change the trajectory of their lives, hosted a pop-up at 57 Carnaby Street from 1st –24th March, raising £43k in celebration of International Women’s Day. It marked the fourth pop-up for the charity since 2022 with Shaftesbury Capital, following previous success in Covent Garden.

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HOW DIFFICULT IS SUSTAINABILITY WITHIN THE SIGNAGE INDUSTRY?

Sustainability within the sign industry presents a unique challenge when it comes to measurement and accountability. We all share a desire to nurture a healthier planet for our children and future generations, and it’s evident that proactive environmental responsibility is imperative.

So, how do we navigate this path? For manufacturing companies, particularly focusing on the Environmental pillar, prioritising sustainability to reduce our carbon footprint is paramount. This entails exploring sustainable options for raw materials, scrutinising suppliers, optimising energy consumption, enhancing production efficiencies, and selecting eco-friendly equipment.

However, the reality is that sustainability often comes at a cost. Whether it’s investing in sustainable practices or engaging third-party entities to measure emissions, there’s a financial implication. Yet, this shouldn’t deter businesses; rather, it underscores the need to market sustainability efforts effectively, potentially opening avenues for financial support.

Measurement is key in this journey. For most SMEs, the focus is on Scope 1 & 2 emissions, possibly extending to Scope 3 depending on the nature of their operations. These scopes delve into tangible aspects such as procurement, location, workforce, and fleet management. The data collected is then processed through sophisticated tools to generate a CO2e measurement, offering insights into the carbon footprint. Regular monitoring allows for tracking progress and striving towards a net-zero emission goal. Yet, for bespoke product manufacturers like us, showcasing sustainability presents a unique challenge. While providing carbon footprint measurements for products is standard practice, complexities arise, especially concerning materials like plastics, which can significantly contribute to emissions. Transitioning to recycled alternatives might seem intuitive, but it doesn’t always translate to lower emissions due to the intricacies of recycling processes. Delving deeper

into granular details requires venturing into Scope 4 of sustainability, a feat currently beyond the reach of SMEs.

So, what’s our approach?

Firstly, we’ve embarked on a rigorous journey towards becoming a Carbon Measured Operation by partnering with CarbonQuota. This involves meticulous data compilation and annual audits to demonstrate our progress towards achieving net-zero emissions.

Secondly, and perhaps most notably, we’ve pioneered the development of a verified

Carbon Emission Calculator for our Neonplus® and neon flex signs.

This groundbreaking tool provides customers with certified CO2e measurements, empowering them to integrate sustainability seamlessly into their operations.

Additionally, through our partnership with Carma, we offer verified offsetting options, wherein we plant trees in the UK on behalf of our customers. Each customer receives a certificate and access to a personalised dashboard, enabling them to track their environmental impact.

We’re immensely proud to offer these solutions, recognising that they represent just one facet of our journey towards net-zero emissions. By taking proactive steps and leading by example, we hope to inspire others within our industry to follow suit, collectively driving positive change for our planet.

Above: Graeme Hoole, MD @thesigngroup / @neonplus

EXECUTIVE UNVEILS NEW STORE CONCEPT AT PURI MALL JAKARTA

JAKARTA, February 2024 -Delamibrands, one of Indonesia’s leading fashion retailer groups, proudly announces the launch of its new store concept for Executive at Puri Mall Jakarta. The new store was designed to enhance customers’ needs and experiences. Executive proudly renovated and enlarged the 489m2 store to signify their commitment to transformation and innovation. The newest store will open starting from February 29, 2024.

The world is changing, and so is Executive. Founded in 1984, Executive embarked on its journey as a career wear brand. With its rebrand from “The Executive” to “Executive” in 2022, the brand has been continuously evolving, and its newest look marks another significant milestone in their journey.

Tiffany Farial, Creative Lead Delamibrands, expressed her enthusiasm about this new chapter for Executive, stating “We are very excited about our next chapter for Executive. As the lives of today’s career people are changing, we are changing along with them. By creating a store environment that resembles a lifestyle or hospitality space, we hope this store reflects our brand’s renewed mission, which is to cater to the needs of the modern career person in any industry.”

“We aim to create an edited, inspirational, and connected retail experience that reflects our customers’ multifaceted, aspirational lives,” added Tiffany. To design this concept, the Executive team took extra steps by collaborating with Dalziel & Pow, a design studio based in London, United Kingdom.

While Executive remains renowned for its workwear, known as the destination to buy one’s first suit for their first job, the brand now offers a broad range of products for all occasions. The product offering includes careerwear, traveler wear, casual wear, denim, footwear, bags, perfume, body care, and other lifestyle goods. Not only limited to various fashion styles and products, Executive’s new store also offers alteration services and the convenience of collecting online-purchased items in-store.

MELISSA & DOUG DESIGN BRIEF

To celebrate 35 years of inspiring imaginations with its timeless toys, Melissa & Doug embarked on a venture to open its first-ever retail store in White Plains, New York. To bring the brand to life on a scale like never before, Melissa & Doug desired a space that would delight visitors of all ages, demonstrate the quality of the toys, lean into its position as the #1 preschool brand for wooden and sustainable toys, and inspire open-ended play. NELSON Worldwide, experts in creating immersive retail experiences, created a designed-to-inspire store that draws both adults and children into the essence of the Melissa & Doug brand and the toys that have become a mainstay in the industry for nearly four decades.

Melissa & Doug’s first brick-and-mortar store embodies the brand’s mission for its toys: to ignite imagination. The space features a range of the brand’s toys, from bestsellers to newly released, including pretend play sets, learning toys, baby and toddler products, puzzles, and arts and crafts. Engaging moments throughout, such as a spot where kids can measure how many “scoops of ice cream” tall they are, offer whimsical activity and encourage exploration. Showcased in prominent display pedestals topped with acrylic covers, toys are freed from their boxes, giving shoppers a closeup view of Melissa & Doug’s attention to detail, quality, and kid-powered toys. This approach maintains the condition of the toys and store, while at the same time inviting customers to engage with them, fostering an organized sense of connection and interaction.

The design team took advantage of every square foot of retail space. Wooden puzzle-inspired fixtures fill the perimeter, while spirited graphics that enliven the walls and cascade from the ceiling act as informative wayfinding elements and add to the playful atmosphere. Designed to create an enjoyable experience for both adults and children, the Melissa & Doug store unlocks imagination in all ages. The Fresh Mart section of the store transports kids into

a real-life supermarket, while allowing adults to envision what one of Melissa & Doug’s larger play centers could look like in their home. A few of the play centers are displayed throughout, with cutouts of kids demonstrating how children can interact with them.

NELSON artfully fuses color and materiality as a powerful tool to evoke the brand essence within the space. The fixtures are built from a careful selection of natural wood tones, echoing the authenticity of the brand and its toys. Drawing from its primary and secondary color palettes, light tones of green, blue, and purple create a vibrant, lively environment where the Melissa & Doug brand comes to life through graphics. This harmonious synergy of visuals and color allow the space to proudly narrate Melissa & Doug’s captivating brand story, immersing visitors in its timeless and imaginative world.

The physical Melissa & Doug retail store represents the brand’s latest evolution over nearly four decades of inspiring active play and imagination in children of all ages. For the first time, consumers—children and adults alike—can enter the immersive world of Melissa & Doug where imaginations are ignited.

re-telling retail

Chapters include:

What is storytelling?

Genuine and enduring engagement is the ultimate goal, to truly connect with your audience or customer.

The dangers of a one-way narrative

Historically, story-telling in print, radio and TV advertising meant that the narrative only flowed in one direction, and that was outwards.

The online revolution

The World Wide Web created a feedback loop by opening channels of communication and interaction never before dreamed of.

The vital role of psychology

Empirical work in retail psychology forged the way for measurable decision making, and the basis of genuinely engaging narratives.

The impact of the pandemic

Physical isolation and the scale of the pandemic profoundly affected perception in our lives, playing out a storyline that we were nearly powerless to do anything about.

Our new relationship with brands and what the future holds

Looking ahead at what we demand of Brands, the stories Brands should tell and the role of technology.

The dynamics of storytelling in the volatile retail landscape have fundamentally changed and will help to shape our perception of the future...

In this report in partnership with Retail Focus, James Breaks,

Associate Director of

Design at rpa:group, takes a close look into the past, present and future of our relationship with brands, and how we engage with them.

As a curator of branded customer experiences, with over 30 years experience in the retail sector, James has seen first-hand how retail has transformed exponentially beyond the physical realm, into a sensory omnichannel experience.

The rpa:group is a global architecture, design, project and cost management consultancy providing creative, practical solutions for the built environment.

Get in touch with j.breaks@therpagroup.com to discuss how we can help you with your next project.

www.therpagroup.com

HARRODS HOLIDAY & OCCASION ROOMS: A TESTAMENT TO EXCELLENCE WITH UMDASCH THE STORE MAKERS

In December 2023, London’s luxury department store, Harrods, unveiled two new womenswear rooms dedicated to occasionwear and swimwear, as part of its redevelopment project at its Knightsbridge home. umdasch The Store Makers was entrusted with bringing Harrods’ vision to life – implementing the shopfitting based on a concept by David Collins Studio. The result sets the stage for an ideal shopping experience tailored to special occasions.

At Harrods, excellence is not just a standard; it’s an expectation. When it came to revamping the Holiday & Occasion area, umdasch’s comprehensive services covered everything from initial engineering drawings to final installation, ensuring that every detail met Harrods’ discerning standards. Located on the first floor of the store, the two spaces, part of the second phase of the womenswear redevelopment project, cover almost 10,000 square feet. The new holiday and swim space offers

From Drawings to Installation

The signature striped marble walkways and Tarahumara stone portals unveiled in Lingerie & Lounge continue, marking a newly defined customer journey. Holiday & Occasion is the definition of luxury with its distinctive colour and material palette such as stone, highly polished brass, stainless steel, and high-quality fabrics. Highly polished wood and MDF added a touch of sophistication, complemented by specialist glass.

customers a 365-day-a-year experience to shop holiday options, including swimwear and resort apparel. It is home to four permanent shopfits and two long-term pop-up spaces. Meanwhile, the evening and occasion room features 38 partywear brands. According to Harrods, it has been designed to provide a “more elevated, current and modern environment,” and includes four extra-large fitting rooms and two luxurious VIP rooms, which customers can book to use while they shop.

The Store Makers meticulously crafted engineering drawings for all the furnishings, from luxurious sofas to elegant display units, designed to showcase the exquisite stock. They then coordinated the production of the furniture to bring the designs to life. The expert installation teams from umdasch ensured that each piece was seamlessly integrated into the space, managing the entire project with precision and professionalism.

Overcoming Challenges Through Careful Planning

The Store Makers’ success on this project stemmed from detailed planning and collaboration with all stakeholders from the outset. Close cooperation between design engineers and factory teams ensured that design intent was perfectly translated into practical execution. Through extensive sampling and practice, umdasch achieved impeccable finishes, while careful planning with the installation teams facilitated smooth on-site assembly.

“Navigating tight timelines was a significant hurdle, compounded by the need to balance design aesthetics

Realising Harrods’ Vision

“What sets this signature area apart is its uncompromising dedication to quality and the ‘wow’ factor it exudes. Each unit embodies the essence of luxury, perfectly aligned with the premium products it showcases for special occasions,” says Stephen Champion proudly of the project. With the Holiday & Occasion area at Harrods, umdasch has once again demonstrated its unwavering

with practicality,” says Stephen Champion, Project Manager at umdasch UK, describing the challenges. “We encountered stability issues with certain units, such as rails and console table legs, which required innovative solutions from our value engineering teams. Achieving the desired finishes, particularly for unique pieces such as highly polished black piano finish console tables, was another major challenge. Logistical complexities and the coordination of different fabrics for the soft furnishings added layers of difficulty.”

commitment to excellence and its ability to exceed even the most demanding expectations. Harrods’ designers have hailed it as a benchmark in project delivery, which is the highest praise the Store Makers can receive: “If the client is happy, we are happy. It is as simple as that. In this case, the result speaks for itself.”

umdasch and Harrods: A Long-Standing Partnership

As part of a ten-year refurbishment project, Harrods is renewing and modernising key elements of its flagship store to create modern retail spaces that also exude timeless charm. As an experienced partner in shopfitting, umdasch is accompanying this unique transformation and revising the ‘signature areas’. This process began with the successful refurbishment of Harrods Roastery & Bake Hall in

2017. umdasch has since been commissioned for numerous other projects, including impressive areas such as the Dining Hall and the Moët & Chandon Champagne Bar in the Beauty Halls.

We make successful stores.

A first-class understanding of the market and a comprehensive focus on the needs of our customers make us your trusted partner for sophisticated Retail Environments.

premium@umdasch.com

www.umdasch.com

MOSS: TAILORED TO EDINBURGH

Menswear retailer Moss make their mark in modern leisure district St James Quarter

Menswear brand Moss, previously known as Moss Bros, recently announced its return to the Scottish market, with the opening of a new store under its successful rebranding.

The 2,372 sq foot Scottish flagship is the latest addition to the brand’s retail expansion and showcases a new store concept that combines modern design with timeless elegance. It’s new location is in the capital’s St James Quarter, which opened in 2021 and is now a landmark destination offering the largest retail and leisure district the city has ever seen.

The new store format matches Moss’ stride forward in style and service too. Store Manager Paul Maricic commented, “Edinburgh style is a mix of classic and contemporary.

Old Meets New

The city is a true melting pot, so I can’t wait to show our customers everything we have to offer. The new brand concept, our level of service, competitive pricing and the fact that we offer ready-to-wear, Hire and Custom Made sets us apart from competitors. This season my favourite suit is the Copper Corduroy, for its double-breasted fastening, pointed lapel and retro feel. We also have a huge range of premium staples and unexpected casual lines. The Technical Shacket has a sportier feel and our first range of swimwear is landing very soon.”

In a challenging economy, Moss are standing firm - this year alone they unveiled 10 newly branded stores, taking their current total to 109. So, what’s working for them?

Edinburgh is one of the most historic and picturesque cities in the UK and the perfect contrast of old meets new. The romanticised landmarks featured in recent Netflix series One Day maintain its character and charm, while the ever-growing population, corporate investment and new developments have created a thriving hub of activity. Moss commented, “We’re immensely proud of our tailoring heritage and the millions of men we’ve dressed since 1851. But while a rich story like this is important, we’ve recognised the need to evolve to offer what people need and want now”.

Prime Positioning

“Shop, live, work, stay, play”, is a popular mantra encouraged by a new wave of leisure districts. “Time Out recently ranked Edinburgh as the 6th most cultural places to be and we’re right in the epicentre”, added Moss. “We’re opening new stores at speed, but also reviewing existing

locations and rolling out re-sites to prime spots across the UK. Edinburgh is world-famous, admired for its history and culture as well as its unique style and shopping, so we’re thrilled to be hosting our Scottish flagship there.”

Customer is Key

“Moss continues to grow as a go-to menswear brand on the high street”, the brand commented, “evaluating and evolving what we do, while staying true to our roots, is so important. We need to serve the needs of our existing base, but at the same time entice new customers who perhaps haven’t considered us before. Edinburgh has a

Experience is Everything

Over the years there’s been a notable shift to online shopping, but Moss really value the importance of physical retail spaces, “Experience is everything. While ecommerce is a growing part of the business, our retail stores still take up a significant proportion of our sales and that’s because our customer still values seeing our product in person, as well as the service they get via 1-to-1 style appointments. The development of our store design has only enhanced

unique makeup of customers, from young professionals to families, as well as a particularly strong domestic and international tourist base. We’re in a strong position where our product is to a highly competitive quality, but we’re also able to deliver varying price points with options to buy, hire or go custom-made.”

this, and we’re excited to re-enter the Scottish market so people can witness it first-hand. The city location is a hub of activity and we’re looking forward to being a part of it.”.

With peak occasions season incoming and Edinburgh’s busiest tourism months also about to kick off, Moss are primed to continue their upward trajectory as they set the standard for retail in Scotland’s capital.

WHAT’S NEW IN VISUAL MERCHANDISING?

By Rob Fletcher

With visual merchandising forming a key part of retailer’s strategies, we take a look at the latest developments in this market and pick out some of the stand-out trends when it comes to how best to utilise props and displays to drive business growth.

Retailers have been using visual merchandising and props to draw in customers for as long as shops have been open. Of course, things have moved on a little from the early days of simple displays, with retailers now having a whole arsenal of tools at their disposal to not only bring in more consumers, but also improve their overall experience. However, when it comes to actually using these tools, this is often easier said than done. Of course, anyone can dress

and display mannequins around the store or put together window displays; the real questions is how can you use the latest materials to stand out from the competition?

Retail Focus speaks with several specialist companies in this area about some of the latest trends they have noted in reference to visual merchandising, as well as their new solutions designed to help retailers win new business and keep hold of valuable customers.

Keep consumers engaged

Up first is Propability, which, as its name may suggest, specialises in the supply of props and similar solutions to the market. Tyrone Cano, head honcho at Propability, said to put it simply, visual merchandising is very important, almost essential, for retailers.

“With online shopping increasing every year the high street needs to entice shoppers and offer immersive experiences to make the trip worthwhile for consumers,” Cano said. “The in-store retail experience differs hugely from shopping online and retailers should take advantage of the fact that an in-store experience can stimulate other senses other than just sight.

“This can be achieved by using clever propping, photo opportunities, lighting, projection, animatronics and even scent machines. Consider investing in fast changing, fresh experiential instore experiences on an ongoing basis to keep consumers engaged.

“Instagramable moments are key as it’s a way of making other consumers aware of what is going on at your store and attracting other shoppers.”

Looking at current activity in the market, Cano said certain trends are standing out for the team at Propability. Primarily, this is that more stores are investing in props and displays in order to create moments that can be shared on social media.

Cano said that this is like a free marketing tool, with Selfridges in particular doing this very well. Selfridges often changes its window displays to fit in with changing trends and seasons, with this having an impact on footfall into the store, which in turn can translate into higher sales. Another clever example from Selfridges comes in the form of a UFO, with the prop doubling up as a catalogue distribution station where shoppers could pick up a printed catalogue on ‘Unidentified Fashion Objects’.

Another client that comes to mind for Cano is Hamleys, the world-famous toy store that often excels with visual merchandising and props. Some of the examples Cano highlights centre on the festive season, with examples including Santa’s Grotto, an accompanying ‘Elf Room’ and exterior seasonal displays at the front of the store.

“We are primarily a manufacturer of bespoke props, displays and immersive in-store and window experiences and environments, so most of what we do is new,” Cano said. “We are now able to offer a design and visualisation service too and we are looking to expand this area of our business. The edge for us is that we manufacture everything in house which helps whilst designing things especially when having budgets in mind.”

Instagramable moments are key as it’s a way of making other consumers aware of what is going on at your store and attracting other shoppers

Left: Selfridges regularly changes its window displays to keep up with changing trends

Exciting and enticing

Someone who shares the opinion that visual merchandising should be seen as key for the retailer is Fiona Cameron, director for DZD. Established in 1989, DZD specialises in bespoke retail displays and visual merchandising, working with a wide range of customers – including leading retail brands, hospitality chains, and national film and television corporations – on all manner of eye-catching projects.

Speaking about the subject, Cameron said that from both her own standpoint and that of DZD, visual merchandising is now more important than ever before. Cameron said the onus is very much on retailers to make their sales space as appealing as it can possibly be, with visual merchandising, as well as the use props and attractive displays, helping them to achieve just this.

“Displays need to be exciting and enticing and also able to justify a consumer’s journey to a shop,” Cameron said. “My advice for retailers wanting to succeed with these projects is to choose and stick to a theme. Spend the money on something with impact in limited areas rather than trying to decorate the whole retail space.”

On the back of this, those retailers looking to appeal even more to shoppers should consider wider trends not only in the retail market but further afield. One area that has stood out, and continues to be a core focus point, is sustainability; failure to address this, Cameron says, could result in retailers losing out on customers and business.

“Customers’ purchasing decisions are increasingly being driven by eco-conscious choices, so it’s never been more important to show these values in our displays,” Cameron explained. “It is all about sustainability, sustainability, sustainability.”

As to how DZD can support retailers here, Cameron said the company has a whole host of products and solutions on offer. One such offering very much related to sustainability comes in the form of its FSC-certified cardboard trees.

“They have impact because of their size and simplicity, but they fold away flat, making them perfect for properties with limited storage,” Cameron said. “They are also incredibly easy to put up in literally a couple of minutes which in turns means they ideal for the busy visual merchandiser.”

Left: Working with Propability, Selfridges doubled up a UFO prop as a catalogue distribution system

Below: The festive season offers all manner of visual merchandising opportunities, such as this example from Selfridges

This month, the industry will also be treated to the 2024 VM & Display Show, which, taking place at the Business Design Centre in London from 16-17 April, will offer an insight into some of the latest advancements in this sector, as well as the opportunity to speak with a wide range of experts about improving your approach to visual merchandising.

Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about DZD’s cardboard trees and the many other solutions available from the company. This year, the company will adopt a Christmas theme on its stand, with the booth set to feature core traditional Christmas items blended with an eclectic selection of its year-round decorations and props. Or ‘Jungle all the way’, as Cameron puts it.

Given from what has been discussed here, visual merchandising is not just simply a tool for retailers to use to secure more business and customers; it should be seen as an essential part of their ongoing strategy to ensure they continue to bring a steady flow of consumers to their stores.

For more insight into this area and to learn about the many options available when it comes to visual merchandising, props and displays, visit this year’s VM & Display Show –and pop by the Retail Focus stand to say hello to the team!

Displays need to be exciting and enticing and also able to justify a consumer’s journey to a shop

Above: DZD will adopt a festive theme on its stand at the 2024 VM & Display Show

Right: DZD said its cardboard trees are helping address a rising demand among consumers for a more sustainable shopping experience

WHOLESALE FAUX FLOWERS - DRIED FLOWERS - SEASONAL DECORATIONS & BALLOONSPOTS & GLASSWARE - ACCESSORIES

VISUAL MERCHANDISING AND DISPLAY SHOW 2024: PREVIEW

Experience the pinnacle of retail display innovation at the 2024 Visual Merchandising and Display Show in London, featuring a broad spectrum of products, services, and learning opportunities.

Set against the dynamic backdrop of London, the Visual Merchandising and Display Show 2024, scheduled for the 16th to 17th of April at the Business Design Centre, is heralded as the quintessential gathering for professionals in the retail display and visual merchandising sectors. This year’s event boasts a wide range of exhibitors, cuttingedge features, and a comprehensive programme of conferences and workshops, all crafted to inspire and inform participants.

The exhibition welcomes visitors from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm on the first day and until 4.30 pm on the closing day, offering free admission to underscore the event’s commitment to fostering innovation and dialogue within the industry.

Renowned for its broad appeal, the Visual Merchandising and Display Show attracts professionals from diverse sectors including retail, hospitality, and leisure, highlighting visual merchandising’s pivotal role across various consumer-facing industries. The show features a diverse array of exhibitors, from companies specialising in advanced display technologies and lighting solutions to those offering print solutions, graphics, mannequins, and more. These exhibitors are set to present an extensive range of products and services aimed at captivating shoppers, including sustainable materials and innovative design services that challenge the conventions of traditional visual merchandising.

Innovative exhibitors include:

• Dorotape stands out with its extensive selection of selfadhesive films, serving display and graphics specialists with products that guarantee a perfect finish. As the UK distributor for leading brands, Dorotape emphasises luxury, sustainable options, underscoring their commitment to quality and environmental stewardship.

• Graham Sweet Studios Ltd offers over five decades of expertise in creating display props, decorations, and bespoke products from their UK-based studios. Their capability for large production runs and custom pieces secures their position as a preferred supplier for clients throughout Europe and beyond.

• Shoplight introduces award-winning sustainable lighting solutions that focus on energy efficiency and design excellence to enhance retail spaces.

• Graphics Display showcases the latest in signage, graphics, and branding, illustrating a proactive approach to forging impactful retail and brand identities.

• Mega Creative sets itself apart by working with a vast network of independent artists, builders, and printers, offering a comprehensive collective that fosters creative flexibility for bespoke projects.

• Antalis is noted for its digital print media range, including the Coala Interior Film for surface renovation and Xanita Board for sustainable decorative applications, alongside a consultancy service to aid clients in selecting optimal materials for their projects.

This represents just a fraction of the over 100 pioneering exhibitors attending the show.

Don’t miss the chance to meet the Retail Focus team at stand G14 during the Visual Merchandising and Display Show 2024.

Features, Conferences, and Workshops:

A highlight of the show is the curated conferences and workshops within the POPAI Zone. The first day includes the Spring Shopper Seminar, featuring industry insights and innovative case studies such as an update from POPAI, a case study by Shark Beauty, Primark’s sustainable design and customer engagement strategy, GDR’s seasonal retail execution review, and an in-depth examination of L’Oréal’s zero landfill policy for cosmetics merchandising.

The second day enriches attendees with masterclasses on shopper marketing essentials, incorporating digital innovation in-store, and sustainability. These sessions

Discover the Future of Retail

The Visual Merchandising and Display Show stands as a pivotal event for anyone involved in the creative retail sector, providing a comprehensive platform to explore the evolving landscape of retail design and visual merchandising. With its diverse range of exhibitors and the newest innovations and trends set to redefine consumer retail experiences, attendees will gain invaluable insights

Following the excitement of the first day, the SDEA will host its popular networking drinks at Bubba Oasis, offering a fantastic opportunity for attendees to connect and relax. Retail Focus, as an official media partner, invites you to register your place at https://creativeretailawards.com/ networking-evening-london/. This soughtafter evening event promises to be a highlight, facilitating valuable discussions and industry connections in a relaxed atmosphere.

aim to enhance professional knowledge on creating impactful, sustainable shopper experiences and leveraging digital technologies to meet contemporary consumer expectations.

For the full programme and schedule, please visit www.vmanddisplayshow.com.

Additional features include the Graduate Challenge, spotlighting emerging industry talent, and the Creative Network, dedicated to showcasing hard-to-find and inspirational talent with updates and insights from the leading edge of visual merchandising and display.

through educational workshops and seminars, while networking opportunities offer a forum for professionals to connect and exchange ideas. This event encapsulates the essence of innovation in retail, making it a must-visit for those keen to remain at the forefront of creative retail design and merchandising. Register for complimentary entry at www.vmanddisplayshow.com

VISUAL MERCHANDISING AND DISPLAY SHOW: EXHIBITOR SHOWCASE

Blynk

Stand D7a

Blynk specialise in the seamless integration of digital and interactive technologies within the retail environmentcreating a deeper connection between brands and their customers.

From large-scale scene-setting digital, to personalised interactive experiences, our visual and interactive technologies take stores from static, to dynamic brand environments that can be seen, felt, touched, experienced. With over 10 years’ experience working with leading retailers and brands, we design the customer experience into the physical environment, and provide measurable ROI with data tracked interactions.

Antalis

Stand D10

Antalis offers premium digital print media including window décor, signage, floor graphics and wall coverings. The range includes Coala Interior Film, a vast portfolio of architectural self-adhesive films for renovating walls, doors, furniture and more, as well Xanita Board, a lightweight, high strength fibre board ideal for sustainable decorative and structural applications including POS and shop-fit. We offer a range of environmental large format substrates and a free consultancy service to help you choose the right materials for your projects.

Dorotape

Stand E8

We supply self-adhesive specialist films to help the retail design, display and graphics specialists achieve the perfect finish every time.

As UK distributors for leading European and American manufacturers including ASLAN, Poli-Tape, Fedrigoni, Nekoosa, Neschen and Cover Styl, our vast product portfolio includes luxury metallised and dichroic films, sparkling glitter and opulent velvet films as well as PVC-FREE films made from post-consumer recycled plastics.

Years of experience and expertise has made Dorotape the go-to display specialist for self-adhesive films.

Glitter Walls

Stand C1

“Glitter Walls UK are europe’s only manufacturer of glitter fabric. All products are made and stocked in the UK for fast dispatch and are a perfect wallcovering for interior decor, events and displays. Our materials is also ideal for propwork and with in house printing services, bespoke signage.”

MediaCo Group

Stand F8

MediaCo Ltd is a triple ISO accredited, 24-hrs display graphics manufacturer, specialising in small and large format graphics production, for one off or short lead time high volume campaigns, including finishing through to installations on almost any media.

The business operates the UK’s only 5m wide dyesublimation fabric printers, CAD cutting and automated sewing. The UK’s first KUDU printer offering neon inks, 3D imaging on acrylic, a flood or spot clear coat and braille production.

KGK Genix

Stand D5

At KGK Genix, we specialise in large format printing, offering end-to-end services for retail, exhibitions, events and branding. Our experienced teams handle everything from design to installation, ensuring high-quality results and meeting deadlines. We excel in creating attentiongrabbing retail graphics, including window displays and visual merchandising. We provide services such as pop-up shops, point of sale displays, exhibition stand design, and sustainable retail graphics. With our creative expertise and commitment to our clients, we ensure every project is a success.

Paper Lounge

Stand D4

Paper Lounge is here to support your VM displays, to help you make them stand out from the crowd. Paper Lounge transcends the noisy sameness of your neighbours, providing colourful, exciting and above all else, Engaging scenes, works of art and pictures. Customers will want to jump right into them and immerse themselves in your story, hoping to make it theirs.

Paper Lounge display furniture brings fun, joy, and laughter to help you bring even more creativity to all that you do in your VM activities.

BLOCKCHAIN AND LUXURY RETAIL

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

In the digital age, luxury retail is facing unprecedented challenges, including the proliferation of counterfeit goods and the increasing shift to online shopping. To address these issues, luxury brands are seeking innovative solutions, with blockchain technology emerging as a promising tool to safeguard authenticity and enhance the customer experience.

What are Blockchains and how do they work?

Blockchains are decentralized ledgers that record transactions across a network of computers securely and transparently. The creation of an immutable record is achieved by including a time stamp and a cryptographic hash of the previous block in each block. To ensure accuracy and tamper-proofing, transactions are validated by network participants through a consensus mechanism before being added to the ledger. Nodes verify transactions

Benefits of Blockchain in Luxury Retail

Blockchain technology offers many benefits to luxury retailers. Blockchain’s decentralized ledger records every supply chain transaction, making it possible for brands and consumers to track luxury goods from production to sale, thus ensuring authenticity and integrity. It can improve supply chain operations by automating processes such as inventory management, procurement, and logistics through smart contracts executed on the block chain, which results in reduced costs and inefficiencies. It also enables luxury brands to deliver personalized shopping experiences tailored to individual preferences, which ultimately enhances customer satisfaction and drives engagement.

The adoption of blockchain has a significant impact on both consumers and retailers. By providing transparency

using complex algorithms and then add them to a block, forming a linked chain structure. Blockchain can be public or private and supports smart contracts. Their method of recording and verifying transactions is secure, transparent, and decentralized, and it can be applied to different sectors such as finance, supply chain, and digital identity verification.

and control over purchasing decisions, it empowers consumers, which fosters brand differentiation, trust, and innovation.

Furthermore, blockchain enhances data security and privacy by preventing breaches and unauthorized access, which in turn promotes trust and ensures compliance with regulations. Moreover, blockchain enables luxury retailers to expand into emerging markets and reach global audiences, resulting in increased revenue growth and market penetration. Luxury retailers can improve operational efficiency and cost savings through streamlined processes and enhanced inventory visibility. In addition, luxury retailers stand out by demonstrating a firm commitment to authenticity, transparency, and innovation.

What are Blockchains and how do they work?

Blockchains are decentralized ledgers that record transactions across a network of computers securely and transparently. The creation of an immutable record is achieved by including a time stamp and a cryptographic hash of the previous block in each block. To ensure accuracy and tamper-proofing, transactions are validated by network participants through a consensus mechanism before being added to the ledger. Nodes verify transactions

using complex algorithms and then add them to a block, forming a linked chain structure. Blockchain can be public or private and supports smart contracts. Their method of recording and verifying transactions is secure, transparent, and decentralized, and it can be applied to different sectors such as finance, supply chain, and digital identity verification.

Blockchain Challenges and Considerations

The benefits of blockchain adoption in luxury retail are numerous, but it also presents challenges. Integrating blockchain into current infrastructure can be a complex and resource-intensive process.

The absence of standardized protocols and regulatory frameworks creates challenges for compliance and interoperability.

To foster adoption, it is crucial to educate consumers about blockchain technology. Additionally, large-scale retail operations face challenges due to blockchain’s scalability limitations. Moreover, blockchain is still vulnerable to cyber threats, which highlights the need for robust cybersecurity measures.

Blockchain Integration Helps Luxury Brands to be more Sustainable

Luxury brands benefit from the integration of blockchain technology, which enhances authenticity, efficiency, and sustainability. By meticulously recording supply chain transactions on an immutable ledger, brands achieve unprecedented transparency. Through transparency, they can trace raw materials, monitor manufacturing processes, and optimize transportation, which leads to reduced waste and environmental impact. Blockchain’s authentication capabilities can also prevent counterfeiting, reduce waste, and conserve resources. Streamlining supply chain operations through automation further optimizes resource allocation and reduces excess inventory, fostering efficient

resource utilization.

In addition, blockchain facilitates comprehensive product lifecycle management, giving brands the power to incorporate sustainable practices from design to disposal. Blockchain supports circular economy initiatives like recycling and refurbishment by enabling seamless tracking of materials and products, which incentivizes responsible consumer behavior. Ultimately, blockchain fosters transparency and accountability among supply chain stakeholders, driving collaborative efforts towards sustainability.

Examples of Luxury Brands that integrated Blockchains

Louis Vuitton: The renowned luxury fashion brand has implemented blockchain technology to authenticate its products and combat counterfeiting. The company partnered with Microsoft, ConsenSys and other major brands to develop AURA, a blockchain platform that enables customers to verify the authenticity of Louis Vuitton goods using a mobile app.

Burberry: The British luxury fashion house has explored blockchain technology to enhance supply chain transparency and traceability. The company joined the Blockchain Research Institute to study blockchain’s potential applications in luxury retail, focusing on improving transparency and sustainability throughout the supply chain.

Breitling: The Swiss luxury watchmaker has integrated blockchain technology into its operations to enhance transparency and traceability for its timepieces. The company partnered with Arianee, a blockchain-based platform, to create digital passports for its watches, enabling customers to verify authenticity and access additional services through a mobile app.

De Beers: The renowned diamond company has explored blockchain technology to provide transparency and traceability for its diamonds. The company launched Tracr, a blockchain-based platform that tracks diamonds from mine to market, ensuring ethical sourcing and authenticity verification for consumers.

Vacheron Constantin: High-end watch brand

Vacheron Constantin uses Arianee, a blockchain solution, to register its watches and provide buyers with a digital passport which can be transferred between owners. The process creates an anonymous link between consumer and label. It also enables investors to ensure the product, declare it lost or stolen, and share or prove its ownership.

Luxury retail is being revolutionized by blockchain technology, which safeguards authenticity, enhances transparency, and drives innovation. Collaboration, innovation, and strategic investment are necessary to overcome integration complexities, regulatory hurdles, and scalability concerns. Luxury retailers use blockchain to redefine luxury shopping, deliver value, and shape the future of retail.

MODERNISING RETAIL ENVIRONMENTS WITH EFFECTIVE LIGHTING

By Rob Fletcher

Ensuring stores appeal to the modern customer could mean having to make changes to the overall look of shops. Here, we take a look at how lighting can play a major role in helping modernise the shopping experience.

Ensuring your stores attract passers-by is one thing, but for those consumers already in the shop, delivering a pleasant shopping experience is a whole other matter altogether.

To put it simply, if your retail environment does not look the part, it will not leave a lasting impact on the shopper. This could in turn lead to the consumer leaving the store without purchasing anything or, if they do decide to spend, it could put them off returning in the future.

So, how do you go about making your stores a more pleasant place to be? Modernisation is key for all retailers, especially when you consider the changing shopping habits of people and the way they go about purchasing items.

We’re delighted to have exceeded the investor’s expectations, solidifying our partnership and advancing our common business objectives

The good news is that there are plenty of steps retailers can take to modernise their stores. This could be anything from refreshing the store with new branding, integrating some form of digital screens, or the use of effective lighting. Here, we focus on the latter, speaking with specialist in this area to learn more about the options available to retailers.

Exceeding expectations

Perhaps the best place to start is to look at some examples of how retailers have been using lighting to give their stores a fresh, more modern look. The Leroy Merlin Strefa Wnętrz store in the Polish capital of Warsaw worked with technical lighting solutions specialist TRILUX on such a project.

Opened in 2010, the Leroy Merlin Strefa Wnętrz store opted to push ahead with an effort to update its lighting design to meet contemporary standards and norms. Collaborating with TRILUX, new lighting was installed throughout the store to help freshen up and, importantly, modernise the environment.

The core objective was to infuse the interior with a distinctive showroom feel, while at the same time highlight key product groups. With this, TRILUX elected to use its

E-LINE NEXT LED continuous line system as the main solution.

A notable challenge was the ceiling’s intricate aluminium structure, housing over 720 light elements. However, TRILUX was able to devise fully customised luminaires with special micro prismatic shades to replace the existing T5 sources, complemented by JUNO projectors with innovative drop-shaped lenses.

LIMBA and TUGRA luminaires further enhanced the lighting concept and illuminated green islands of plants, elevating the interior’s aesthetic appeal. In addition, TRILUX used the LiveLink intelligent lighting management system to allow for intelligent control of the lighting infrastructure.

Karol Czich of Leroy Merlin hailed the project as a major success. He said: “The first stage involved a comprehensive site visit to assess the existing arrangement, followed by meticulous design work to select luminaires and implement a sophisticated control system.

Efficient and cost effective

More good news for retailers when it comes to lighting is the vast array of solutions that are on offer, with new products coming to market on a regular basis, opening up more options for them when it comes to refreshing and modernising their stores.

Luxxbox, an international designer of acoustic and flexible solutions, recent revealed details of several new solutions, using the LEDucation event in March to showcase these to the wider market. Among the new acoustic lighting fixtures from the company are illi Bon, Sierra, Stalik, and Kurtain.

Starting with illi Bon, this has been designed as a smaller companion to the illi, with the company billing it as an “effective acoustic and lighting solution”.

“This mini pendant boasts a captivating array of soft PET

“We’re delighted to have exceeded the investor’s expectations, solidifying our partnership and advancing our common business objectives.”

outer gills, offering powerful sound absorption and direct illumination in a compact form, and packs a punch in both function and style,” Luxxbox said.

Also new from Luxxbox is Sierra, a fixture that it said seamlessly blends contemporary design with exceptional noise absorption. Sierra comes in a seek cone form, which is crafted from recycled PET material and effectively absorbs sound waves. The solution also features a high-performance dimmable LED light source with a glass diffuser that the company said provides ample lumens while remaining energy efficient.

Elsewhere, Stalik is an elongated cylindrical fixture offers illumination and sound absorption. Supplied to users in a modular form, Luxxbox said Stalik’s linear formations and captivating radial arrangements allows users to create

Left: Shoplight solutions were recently used for modern lighting at HOP in London

Right: Shoplight said lighting can play a huge role in the modernisation of stores

If stores are allowed to decay, the damage to brands can be huge in brand reputation and financial costs

stunning visual centerp ieces that seamlessly sculpt both sound and light. Stalik is available in three heights and an extensive array of 77 wool colour options.

Finally, Kurtain has been inspired by the flow of drapery, offering a soft, flowing wave effect that gently absorbs ambient noise.

“Crafted from luxurious Camira Blazer wool, Kurtain adds a touch of sophistication and warmth to a variety of settings,” Luxxbox said. “Beneath the stunning lampshade, a high-performance, dimmable circular edge-lit LED

Catalyst for success

Having seen how some retailers are using lighting to modernise their stores, how can others follow with similar projects? Mark Shortland, managing director of retail lighting specialist Shoplight, has some words of advice. He said while we should not underestimate the difficulties involved in keeping 100, 200 or even 300 stores looking

panel offers exceptional lumen output. For added versatility, Casambi Bluetooth dimming, POE, and tunable white lighting are also available upon request.

“Luxxbox’s acoustic lighting solutions have helped architects and designers illuminate interior spaces while eliminating noise that’s both efficient and cost effective. The company’s versatile fixtures have been applied to hospitality, retail, education, office, and high-end residential settings around the world.”

modern and in keeping with the latest iteration of a brand, the neglect of a brand’s physical stores can be quite dangerous.

“From poor maintenance giving a store an unloved feel to the lack of the latest innovations that create great experiences or allow customers to use the store for returns

Left: Leroy Merlin Strefa Wnętrz in Warsaw worked with TRILUX on a major modernisation project

Right: The Leroy Merlin Strefa Wnętrz store opened in 2010

in an efficient way, if stores are allowed to decay, the damage to brands can be huge in brand reputation and financial costs,” Shortland said.

“The decision on when to refit stores is usually complex; the determination of payback period is important, and it is not always clear what if any increase in sales will be achieved through a store refit. Coupled with this, lease terms play a huge part in the decision-making process and sometimes, the landlords desire to incentivise lease extensions with financial contributions to help with store refit costs.

“That said, the modernisation of retail stores is crucial in so many ways. Whether it be brand positioning and the perception of the brand amongst its customers, the ability to create a positive experience by the retailer which may extend across platforms or the importance of an improved financial performance, store modernisation can be the catalyst for success for many retailers.”

With this, Shortland said lighting can play a huge role in the modernisation of stores. He said if a retailer was to invest in one thing only when modernising a store estate, lighting delivers the biggest impact of all.

“With efficient, high performing LED technology issues such as improved colour rendering, contrasting light levels where appropriate and dramatically reduced energy costs can be achieved,” Shortland said. “Stores can transition from one where multiple failures are visible and light levels are flat and homogenous, to spaces that appear vibrant, dynamic and expressive, drawing customers into the space and encouraging them to explore and purchase.”

Shortland went on to say that while full-store refits are the best solution to deliver all of this, if budgets are tighter, lighting alone is the best medium to take the most positive and impactful steps – and Shoplight is well positioned to

support with its range of solutions.

Among the latest offerings from Shoplight are its new biopolymer products such as NORT GS, Colt Bio and the soon0to-launch, Raider Bio, which are 3D-printed from biopolymers and made in the UK. Shortland said these deliver huge reductions in carbon emissions through manufacture and transport, helping to address demand for more sustainable materials.

“Consumers care about these things and retailers are choosing to use initiatives like this to demonstrate to their customers how they share their concerns about the planet and are doing all they can to mitigate the impact their business has on the environment,” Shortland said.

“The circularity of these products through our buy-back scheme is also important to brands who increasingly dislike the waste products of their day-to-day business ending in landfill.”

Shortland went on to say that it is not just about material choice and manufacturing base, with an increasing number of retailers are choosing Casambi Bluetooth lighting controls within Shoplight’s products to deliver simple, easy-to-use lighting scenes that can allow a space to change over the course of a day, reflecting how their customers might use the space.

“This is particularly prevalent in homewares and F&B brands, where demand in retail space change throughout the day,” Shortland said.

While the term “modernisation” may strike fear into the hearts of retailers, given the cost of carrying out such processes, simple changes to lighting can have a major impact on both the look and feel of a store. Working with experts like Shoplight and following the example of others, included those featured here, can help bring your shops into the modern market.

Left: LuxxBox bills its new illi Bon product as an “effective acoustic and lighting solution”

Right: Luxxbox said its Sierra fixture blends contemporary design with exceptional noise absorption

• A Precision Aiming System that offers 350 degrees of rotation and 60 degrees of articulation which can be adjusted in 5-degree increments

• Up to 27w of power delivering over 4000 lumens and multiple driver options

• 3D printed as a single part, it requires less time and effort to disassemble, recycle and repurpose

• Cover any existing hole size up to 300mm diameter without secondary plates or rings

THE BIG SWITCH - FROM TRADITIONAL ALUMINIUM LIGHTING TO GREENER BIO POLYMER ALTERNATIVES

Shoplight is offering sustainable retail lighting alternatives, and brands are making the switch

It’s been just over a year since Shoplight launched NORT, its first bio polymer retail spotlight at Euroshop 2023.

Since then, Shoplight have launched NORT GS and Colt Bio, with Raider Bio launching at the VM & Display Show in April.

Shoplight are proud to report that nearly 20 of their clients have switched from using traditional aluminium lighting shipped from the Far East to its more sustainable bio polymer range, making these products high impact agents of change.

Some of the brands that have made the switch to Shoplight’s sustainable lighting products include Lululemon, Armani, Decathlon, SSP Group, Accessorize, National Trust and, featured here, Gant (Kildare) together with Moss Bros (Clark’s Village and Edinburgh).

Shoplight’s bio polymer range offer sustainable alternatives, that are manufactured and assembled here in the UK from sustainable materials that can be reused or recycled at end of life.

NORT was Shoplight’s first bio polymer retail spotlight offering 86% reusable and recyclable components.

NORT GS is a sleek and compact spotlight at a price comparable to an imported aluminium spotlight. It offers

72% reusable and recyclable components.

Colt Bio is a fully upgradeable recessed downlight with an adaptable outer bezel. It offers 71% reusable and recyclable components.

Raider Bio is the world’s first 3D printed bio polymer recessed spotlight.  With an adaptable outer bezel, our precision aiming system and a wide choice of LED chips and reflectors, Raider Bio delivers the perfect lighting solution for any store requiring recessed lighting products.

By choosing Shoplight’s bio polymer range, these brands are making responsible choices that benefit the planet. They are using circular products designed to reduce energy consumption in manufacture, transport, and operation. These products also stay in use for longer and can be reused or recycled at end of life. As a result, these brands are significantly reducing their carbon footprint and reducing landfill waste.

Contact Shoplight to find out more about how they can help you achieve your sustainability pledges and transition smoothly to more sustainable retail lighting.

https://shoplight.lighting/

hello@shoplight.lighting

LIGHT ALL AREAS WITH SUSTAINABLE TRACK SPOTLIGHTS, DOWNLIGHTS, AND RECESSED SPOTLIGHTS

Now you can illuminate all areas of your store using more sustainable UK made retail lighting products – with 3D printed bio polymer track spotlights, downlights, and recessed spotlights, Shoplight are delivering a better way. As a certified B Corp, Shoplight is incredibly proud to be cleaning up retail lighting by making circular retail lighting options available to brands who care about their environmental impact.

Raider Bio

Raider Bio is the newest bio polymer retail lighting product from Shoplight. In fact, it is the world’s first 3D-printed, bio polymer recessed retail spotlight.

• 3D printed as a single part, it requires less time and effort to disassemble, recycle and repurpose

• Introducing their Precision Aiming System, Raider Bio offers 350 degrees of rotation and 60 degrees of articulation which can be adjusted in 5-degree increments

• As with Colt Bio, Raider Bio can cover any existing hole size up to 300mm diameter without secondary plates or rings

With its Precision Aiming System, with up to 27w of power delivering over 4000 lumens, four different beam angle reflectors, 4 standard colours, and fixed, DALI, Phase Cut and Casambi driver options available, Raider Bio is the ultimate in sustainable recessed spotlighting.

NORT

With 86% reusable and recyclable components NORT is a track mounted adjustable spotlight complete with increased efficiency COB LED module, reflector and integral electronic driver. It is the first bio polymer product that Shoplight launched.

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

NORT GS

Winner of the Most Sustainable/Eco-Friendly Product at the 2024 VM & Display Awards, NORT GS offers 72% reusable and recyclable components. It is a track mounted adjustable spotlight that reduces waste and supports circular economy principles. Launched in January 2024, NORT GS can already be seen in the newest Lulumen, Moss, The RUG Company and Bicester Village pop up stores like Giorgio Armani.

NORT GS offers:

• A sleek compact modular design

• Superior high-efficiency LED’s

• Switchable light outputs

• On/off, Casambi and DALI variants

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

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

• A price comparable to an imported aluminium spotlight

Colt Bio

With 71% reusable and recyclable components, Colt Bio is a recessed fixed downlight option available in outputs up to 27w and complete with increased efficiency COB LED module, reflector and remote electronic driver. 3D printing allows for the outer bezel to be produced to any diameter up to 300mm, so it is a perfect solution to retrofit into existing ceiling holes.

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

These materials, coupled with a modular design approach mean these bio polymer products can be upgraded easilyNORT, NORT GS, Colt Bio and now Raider Bio, can be left in use for many years and only recycled at the very end of their working life.

Furthermore, 3D printing is waste-free and dramatically reduces production carbon emissions, the carbon miles from shipping (typically from East Asia), as well as energy in use.

2024 VM and Display Awards Celebrate Excellence in Retail

On the 12th of March, the Leonardo Royal St Paul’s in London was the epicentre of celebration for the Retail Visual Merchandising and Display industry. The prestigious VM and Display Awards, now in its 29th year, continued its tradition of excellence, drawing a sell-out crowd eager to celebrate the industry’s finest achievements. As we edge closer to the landmark 30th anniversary next year, this event highlighted the innovation and creativity that have been the hallmark of visual merchandising for nearly three decades.

The evening, hosted by Johnny Doyle and featuring a comedic performance from Simon Brodkin, was not just about laughter and entertainment but also about recognising the unparalleled talents within the industry. The awards ceremony is renowned for showcasing specific elements of Visual Merchandising and Display, with this year witnessing a record number of entries. This enthusiastic participation underscores the vibrant spirit and competitive edge that define the sector.

Among the accolades distributed, several brands and individuals stood out for their contribution to shaping the industry’s landscape. Michael Kors captivated the audience with its most outstanding feature/prop, while Marc Jacobs took home the award for the best pop-up, showcasing the dynamic and evolving nature of retail spaces. Fortnum and Mason’s enchanting Christmas Interior reminded everyone of the festive season’s wonders, and Brown Thomas was celebrated for creating the best International Window, demonstrating the global appeal and influence of visual merchandising.

A collaboration between Adidas and Stella McCartney was recognised for the best Instore Branding, highlighting the importance of cohesive and impactful brand messages within retail environments. The evenings highest honour went to Sian Roberts from John Lewis, who was celebrated as the most innovative person in VM, underlining the individual talent that drives the industry forward. The VM and Display Awards are more than an occasion for accolades; they are a vital opportunity for professionals to network, share ideas, and celebrate the accomplishments that push the boundaries of what is possible in visual merchandising and display. The history of these awards is a testament to their importance in the industry, serving not only as a recognition of excellence but also as an inspiration for future innovation.

As the night drew to a close, winners and guests alike danced away, a fitting celebration of the years achievements. The full list of winners, detailed in the winners’ brochure, offers a glimpse into the creativity and innovation that were honoured on this memorable evening. With anticipation already building for next year’s 30th-anniversary celebration, the VM and Display Awards promise to return on the 11th of March 2025, continuing to showcase the talent and hard work that define this vibrant industry. This annual event remains a beacon of inspiration, encouraging professionals to strive for excellence and creativity in their contributions to the world of Retail Visual Merchandising and Display.

The shortlist, winning projects and suppliers involved in each project can be viewed in the VM & Display Awards Winners Brochure at www.vmanddisplayawards.com

SDEA UPDATE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lighting the way to retail excellence!

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