the shimmer of
Fantasy Ice Flakes
www.mtfx.com/vm
33-35
Architects and retailers joined forces in September to create 13 window collaborations as part of RIBA’s Regent Street Windows Project 2015.
Image courtesy of StudioXAG
Features Regulars Architectural discovery
41 POPAI Awards
38
Grand Central Birmingham
42
7
Leader
23-30 P roject Focus
8
15-16 Window shopping Inspiring window displays from around the globe.
18 21
John Lewis : Dr. Martens : Turnball & Asser
Diary
11-13 News
Top of the POPS Karl McKeever Karl discusses discount retailers and their impact on the high street.
59 Focus on: Mannequins
London Design Festival
45
Opinion
Sue Fabian, general manager at Umbrella Group, looks at the growing regeneration in Birmingham.
66
Q&A
Eva Mai, DVP visual artistic director, visual merchandising at Coach reveals her path into VM, trends for 2016 and the stand-out window displays of her career.
48-56 Products Products and services for the retail industry.
www.retail-focus.co.uk
www.armourfx.com
2015-02-10 Mix.indd 1
10/02/2015 15:48:41
leader
October ‘15 Thursday 24th September was a big day for the city of Birmingham. Grand Central finally opened its doors to the public after five years of planning, designing and construction. The £150m retail and dining destination sits above the city’s £600m New Street Station. There are 66 retailers and restaurants, some of which have chosen Grand Central Birmingham as their first location in the city, such as The White Company, Hobbs, Joules, Foyles, Cath Kidston, Neal’s Yard and Tiger. The centre, which is the size of a football pitch, is expected to attract more than 50 million visitors every year. Turn to pages 38-39 to find out more. Our Project Focus section this month begins with the John Lewis anchor store at Grand Central Birmingham (23-24), followed by Dr. Martens’ new location on London’s Oxford Street (26-27) then over to Mayfair for Turnball & Asser’s new flagship (29-30). Rebecca Cawood, head of marketing and communication at Sheridan&Co, indulged herself at London Design Festival last month and shares her highlights on pages 42-43. As part of London Design Festival and coinciding with London Fashion Week, each year RIBA organises its Regent Street Windows Project, which sees 13 architects and retailers join forces to create engaging architectural installations in shop windows along the street. You can view all 13 schemes on pages 33-35. Speaking of London Fashion Week, Louis Vuitton is the latest luxury brand to host an exhibition, launching it on the third day of LFW. 180 The Strand was home to Louis Vuitton Series 3, a sensory exhibition that invited you to discover Nicolas Ghesquière’s inspirations for the autumn/winter 2015 women’s show as the artistic director for women’s collections. More details can be found on our news pages (11-13). 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
Production & Web
Subscriptions
Terry Clark e. terry@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405
For subscription enquiries please email:
Get more from Retail Focus online!
www.retail-focus.co.uk
subscriptions@retailfocus.co
Search Retail Focus
Retail Focus is published 12 times a year by Retail Focus Promotions Ltd, Yeomans, Bassetts Lane, Woodham Walter, Maldon, Essex, CM9 6RZ.
Industry associations
@retailfocus
No part of Retail Focus may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval address all enquiries to the editor at the above address. The opinions expressed in Retail Focus are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of the information contained in these pages. We will assume permission to publish any unsolicited material unless otherwise stated. ©Retail Focus Promotions Ltd 2013.
Find us on...
system or transmitted in any form without permission. Please
Facebook / retailfocusmagazine Retail Focus is proud to be associated with and a supporter of ACID
instagram.com/retailfocus
Pinterest /retailfocus
7
diary
Liberty in Fashion Fashion and Textile Museum, London 9 October 2015 28 February 2016 Liberty in Fashion celebrates the 140th anniversary of the retailer. The exhibition charts Liberty’s history as ‘the’ fashionable place to shop as well as its role as the source and originator of key trends in fashion history. The exhibition explores Liberty’s impact on British fashion. More than 150 garments, textiles and objects demonstrate Liberty’s strong relationships with designers since 1875, from Arthur Silver of Silver Studio to collaborations with Jean Muir, Cacharel, Yves Saint Laurent and Vivienne Westwood. FashionTextile Image: ‘Eustacia’ print impression, printed at Liberty and Co. Ltd Merton print works, 1960
LuxLive ExCel, London 18-19 November 2015 The latest technology, the best projects and finest experts will all be at the biggest ever LuxLive, as it joins forces with Strategies in Light Europe and new architectural lighting event, lightspace dot london. LuxLive features more than 300 exhibitors and over 80 hours of free-to-attend talks, debates and panel discussions. lux_live
www.luxlive.co.uk
8
© Copyright of Liberty Fabric Limited
www.ftmlondon.org
Mapic Palais des Festivals, Cannes, France 18-20 November 2015
VM & Display Awards The Bloomsbury Big Top, London 19 November 2015
Taking place in Cannes, this event gathers 8,400+ international participants, including more than 2,400 retailers and 2,300 property developers for three days of exhibition, conferences and networking events targeting all types of retail property: city and shopping centres, factory outlets, leisure areas and transit zones.
The VM & Display Awards recognise and celebrate the best in visual merchandising and retail display. The awards have moved to a new venue for 2015 — The Bloomsbury Big Top in London, and will include the new Retail Focus Readers’ Choice Award. Visit the website for table and ticket enquiries.
MAPICWorld
www.mapic.com
VMDisplayAwards
www.vmanddisplay.com
ALL E Y E S A R E O N YO U The Greatest Visual Merchandising and Display Show on Earth is once again at it’s home of the Business Design Centre in London on 20th to 21st April 2016. Let’s be spectacular together - secure your space now. Call 01945 420 068 or email enquiries@rvmww.com www.vmanddisplay.com
Hunter Flagship by Checkland Kindleysides
The European annual leading event for INNOVATION AND INSPIRATION IN RETAIL DESIGN, VISUAL MERCHANDISING, MARKETING & SHOPFITTING is doubling in size and filling up fast! Your unique opportunity to: • • • • • •
Be seen as a leader in the industry Engage with the retail design industry Meet with senior decision makers Generate qualified targeted leads Promote awareness for your company Launch new products and services
“It was, without a doubt, the best Show we have exhibited at in 20 years – in terms of the volume and, crucially, the quality of leads we picked up. We will definitely be back next year.” Mike Houghton, Marketing Director, CJ Retail Solutions
80% of available stands are already booked! Don’t wait, secure the stand you want. Call Rachel or Michelle on +44 (0) 208 874 2728 or email rachel@retaildesignexpo.com
www.retaildesignexpo.com
NEW for 2016: Retail Digit al Signage Ex po A major ne w event for the reta il industry. www.rd se.co.uk
Co-located with
Supported by
news
Warehouse and LCF collaborate on LFW window scheme Emma Fearn, the winner of the 2015 Warehouse Visual Merchandising Project in association with London College of Fashion, had her window scheme implemented at the retailer’s Argyll Street store during London Fashion Week. ‘The installations needed to reflect and complement the brand and the AW15 seasonal trends and product. With key consideration to the customer journey, the objective of the project was to design a theme based installation which included a window design, an interior focal display
and two interior wall focal points,’ explains Sarah Bailey, course director at London College of Fashion — BA Hons Fashion Visual Merchandising & Branding. Fearn’s window was inspired by Giant’s Causeway, Ireland’s natural wonder, and featured a mix of materials including copper, plywood and insulating felts. ‘The blocks were made out of birch matt lacquered ply for the wave structure, along with raw timber of the logs, clad in soft grey felt and copper vinyl,’ explains Bailey. Fearn joined Warehouse’s visual
merchandising team in its head office to bring her winning entry to life; from the early planning stages to the overnight execution. She also received mentoring from the team throughout her final year and had the opportunity to work across a range of Warehouse projects during her time there. The winning design, which was selected from 38 entries by final year FdA Fashion Retail Branding & Visual Merchandising students, will also feature on the BBC’s Oxford Street Revealed programme.
11
news
Anya Hindmarch Service Station takes over Selfridges carpark Selfridges’ carpark in London was taken over by The Anya Hindmarch Service Station for four days in September to promote the brand’s AW15 Diversion runway collection. The M25 Service Station was the ideal place for fans of the brand to try and buy the new collection. The space featured a Little Chef snack bar, carwash photo booth and a kiosk selling a range of 25 service station essentials, including Anya winkey car freshener, bumper stickers and a personalised hi-vis jacket – only available at the Service Station.
Tom Dixon creates Multiplex at The Old Selfridges Hotel Tom Dixon and Wallpaper collaborated to present MULTIPLEX, an immersive, multi-sensory department store of tomorrow, located at The Old Selfridges Hotel in London. MULTIPLEX brought together design, technology, fashion, film and interiors to explore how the future of retail might look, sound, smell, taste and feel. The space was built around the contributions of collaborating brands, bringing their own ideas and experiences to the event. These included Wallpaper, Sony, Caesarstone, Deliveroo, Resident, Mindblower.com and Moo.com.
Primark opens Boston flagship Primark has opened its Boston flagship store, the brand’s first location in the north east of the USA. Situated in the historic Burnham Building, Primark’s flagship continues the long-standing legacy of this location, which was previously home to Filene’s. Primark Boston will offer ‘Amazing fashion, Amazing prices’ to shoppers of all ages in an award-winning store environment, from womenswear, menswear and childrenswear to home goods. The Downtown Crossing store, which was designed by Dalziel and Pow and sits at the corner of Summer and Washington Streets, spans four floors across 7,153 sq m of selling space, and features a modern design that incorporates this historic building’s original features, including open brickwork and terracotta ceilings. The store features 73 cash registers and 84 fitting rooms to keep the traffic flowing, as well as 530 mannequins and busts to encourage wardrobing. There is also a 92 sq m trend room showcasing the latest designs immediately upon entry.
12
The customer journey begins with a ‘Hello Boston’ mural in the lobby, illustrating the retailer’s locations around the world as part of Primark’s international fashion story, and one of several art features throughout the store. Others include decorative fret-
cut panels, applied to cash desks across all levels and designed to express the department they are within. Primark has announced plans for another seven stores across the north east of America.
news
Louis Vuitton Series 3 exhibition arrives at The Strand Louis Vuitton is the latest luxury retailer to host an exhibition, this one located at 180 The Strand in London. A modern and unexpected reinterpretation of a fashion show, the sensory exhibition invited visitors to discover Nicolas Ghesquière’s inspirations for the autumn/winter 2015 women’s show as the artistic director for women’s collections at Louis Vuitton. Visitors were guided through a series of 13 rooms spread over three floors, exploring all stages in the creative process that went towards creating this season’s collection. Cue wrap-around digital screens, lasers, a walk-in wardobe room and the Artists Room with live demonstrations of manufacturing from craftsmen and women.
John Lewis unveils £14m Home department
Prada’s Pasticceria Marchesi opens its doors The opening of Pasticceria Marchesi in via Monte Napoleone 9, Milan marks the first expansion of the historic Milanese café from its original home in 191 years. Marchesi, recently acquired by the Prada group, is one of the oldest pastry shops in Milan. The new Marchesi remains faithful to its forebear in its traditional spirit and impeccable quality, now in a central, larger location and providing an expanded offering of its products. Designed by architect Roberto Baciocchi, the new shop respects the classic atmosphere and the age-old allure of Marchesi’s landmark site in Via Santa Maria alla Porta, 11/a. The store is spread over 120 sq m, and the furniture helps create an air of refinement.
John Lewis has unveiled its new £14m Home department at its Oxford Street store, offering the largest range of home products of any store in the UK. The department will allow consumers to personalise every aspect of their home design and living experience. To mark its opening, the flagship store hosted the world’s first intuitive interior design test to gauge customers’ design tastes. The ‘Head of Design’ measured customers’ instantaneous interior instincts and design choices to create a moodboard of their style preferences. Users gave their instinctive response to a series of picture-based questions, from the colours they like to the materials, finishes and products they prefer. This data was then collated to reveal a curated moodboard of recommended colours, textures, and styles, along with a core interior design theme based on the user’s selections. Each theme directly connects to a style concept that the in-house design studio team has developed, and every theme has corresponding products that are available in-store and online at John Lewis. The new 8,732 sq m space is spread across two floors of the store, housing everything from fitted kitchens and flooring to a new Sleep Room for customers to create their perfect bedroom. The new home floors have been designed to inspire shoppers to create memorable spaces in their own homes. Twenty-five different room sets sit at the heart of the space and can be constantly updated to give customers new ideas. The department itself is split into separate, distinct ‘room’ environments, allowing shoppers to fully immerse themselves in whatever they’re looking for.
13
COME A ND SEE WHAT W E CAN D O IPOS -DE SIGN.CO .UK
info@ipos-design.co.uk | 0161 477 8501 | ipos-design.co.uk
iposdesign
We create exceptional marketing campaigns across every aspect of retail point of sale throughout the UK, Ireland and Europe.
Come and see what we do at ipos-design.co.uk
visual merchandising
Window shopping Inspiring window displays from around the globe
Mulberry Elemental Design worked on the design of the windows and in-store displays for Mulberry’s clothing launch with Georgia May Jagger, at the retailer’s New Bond Street flagship store. Raw steel scaffolding tubes, with knuckle joints in a lustre paint finish in sapphire, emerald and ruby, match the jacket’s lining options and the biker scarves. The backdrop of the window is clear PVC strip curtaining to continue the industrial theme. Raw steel S-hooks are used to display other products such as the biker pouch bags.
Photography: Melvyn Vincent
Harvey Nichols Lucky Fox worked alongside Arty Wigs to create this TATE scheme for The Art of Style campaign at Harvey Nichols, heavily inspired by Pop Art using bold, bright colour hand-painted onto fibre glass mannequin moulds. The use of metal key clamps gives an industrial feel that frames the bold colours of the moulds and the brightly coloured mannequin parts and bodies that make up the quirky art pieces.
Hermès Hermès has created yet another interesting scheme, this time using sculpted metal to produce a series of sketches including dogs, a bike, bench and art easels. Products are displayed on the pieces of furniture and hung from them too — even the dogs are wearing watches as collars.
15
visual merchandising Photography: Brian T. Silak
Coach Brooklyn Bridge has been given a facelift in the latest windows by Coach. A gold coloured Brooklyn Bridge emerges from the backdrop and provides the perfect platform to display the brand’s handbags on. Pictured is the New York store; the scheme has also been installed at the Bond Street site.
H&M
See more window installations on the blog:
Harlequin Design created this striking scheme for H&M’s AW15 collection, which was unveiled at Paris Fashion Week. The mannequins stand bold and proud within the capsules, which have just landed.
www.retail-focus.co.uk/blog
Hyundai Department Store To celebrate the opening of Hyundai Department Store in Pangyo, South Korea, Prop Studios designed various bespoke installations and window schemes, inspired by Around the World in 80 Days. The window schemes were designed to be extremely high end, furnished out of luxurious materials and to showcase unforgettable design. Prop Studios produced a bespoke rose gold bicycle with contrasting silver wings that was suspended in a sky of geometric clouds. Two other windows displayed an abundance of silver miniature ships in a sea of waves.
The Body Shop To celebrate the launch of its new Oils Of Life range, The Body Shop asked Lucky Fox to design and install a scheme in its Oxford Street, London store. Taking inspiration from the new packaging and branding, and also the precious seed oil ingredients used across the range, Lucky Fox created laboratory style props filled with black cumin seeds, camelia flowers and rosehip berries. Glass pendants were hung above the product and Lucky Fox also introduced a glowing amber neon installation of The Body Shop logo.
16
B
n o i t a r i sp n i m v # s a e d i fresh
arthelmess
UK
CNL mannequins
THE DRIFTWOOD COLLECTION
Design and Complete Visual Merchandising solutions Global Manufacturing and Logistics
e: info@barthelmessuk.com t: 01438 318634 - 724065
www.barthelmessuk.com
CNL High Quality and Value Mannequins Decorado off the shelf decor and props
RF_Oct_2015.indd 1
15/10/2015 12:54
Flexible strip LEDs: made to measure
Our bespoke , tailor-made flexible strip LED kits make lighting your retail display roll out easy, saving your workshop time and money.
Our LED experts will design your kit so it arrives ready to plug in and play: • We’ll help you choose the right LED strip product • Products will be cut, soldered and connected to the desired • Power supplies can be added so it is ready to plug in and play All
LEDs are manufactured in Europe to the highest quality.
Find out more about our LED solutions, contact your nearest Perspex Distribution office BLACKBURN Email: sales.blackburn@perspex.co.uk Tel: 01254 272 800
TAMWORTH Email: sales.tamworth@perspex.co.uk Tel: 01827 263 900
CHELMSFORD Email: sales.chelmsford@perspex.co.uk Tel: 01245 232 800
WEYBRIDGE Email: sales.weybridge@perspex.co.uk Tel: 01932 356 900
www.perspex.co.uk
The Retail Shopfitting & Display Summit will provide you with a platform to enhance your company and share the long-term vision of the retail shopfitting business by setting tomorrow’s standards today, and to prepare for future developments, innovations and technology. Network with fellow experts within this industry, listen to case studies, meet and discuss ideas with retail shopfitting service providers, hear personal experiences and find solutions to issues facing this ever changing industry. For further information or to book your place contact Carly Bailey on: 01992 374100 rds@forumevents.co.uk www.forumevents.co.uk
Media & Industry Partners:
@Retail_Summit
8th & 9th February 2016 Radisson Blu Hotel London Stansted
Q&A column
Karl McKeever 50 stores, 50 days Type ‘is the high street dead?’ into Google and your internet browser will be awash with stories and articles declaring that there is no hope or future for shops in our towns and city centres. Yet, just last month, a brand new discount retailer opened 50 new stores in 50 days. This apparent success story seems to show there is space in the market for retailers targeting shoppers on a budget, and is further proof that the high street is alive and kicking. But it also draws attention to the challenge of how retailers grow and expand their customer base as time goes on and competition increases. The retailers that are dominating the discount market — the likes of Primark, George and Matalan — are able to do so because they keep footfall levels high and prices low. Their buyers need the power of bulk ordering to hit the economies of scale required to turn a profit. The only way this can be achieved is to have enough stores so that product can be purchased in volume, on a regular basis. This strategy was the basis for new discount retailer Pep&Co opening so many stores in quick succession. Pep&Co may just look like any other discount fashion retailer, yet its business model and rapid store opening programme may have set a new standard for how to leave a lasting mark on the high street. Fifty stores have opened in specific target locations. Shying away from expensive city centre sites, the retailer opted for less glamorous addresses in secondary retail locations such as Dartford, Oldham, Boston, Scunthorpe and Bridgend. Shopping arcades and smaller high street parades close to residential areas that position the retailer within reach of its target audience. When first approaching the new Pep&Co stores, their bright, bold and colourful exteriors stand out in the often tired looking shopping centres in which they are located. The retail environments are cheap and cheerful in design; store layouts are overly tight, product volume and fixture density somewhat excessive. It’s also fair to say that price POS plays a bigger role than visual merchandising. That’s to be expected. But it rarely equates to a formula for sustainable success. Whilst stores may look tidy after 50 days, without a relentless focus on standards and further investment in the in-store experience, they may look very different after 500 days. Karl McKeever is creative director of visual merchandising and brand delivery consultancy Visual Thinking.
Email Karl at karl@retailfocus.co www.visualthinking.co.uk
Selling clothes at rock-bottom prices is not a new phenomenon; discount stores have existed since the high street did. However, as competition increases, it’s those that are able to evolve their offer to appeal to the middle class of shopper that survive and grow. Right now, Aldi and Lidl are doing just that in grocery — focusing messages on provenance and quality, not price, as they aim to target those whose sole requirement in a retailer isn’t just low prices. For supermarkets, the existing ‘race to the bottom’ that grocers have been caught up in over the last few years could soon come to an end, as a mass grab for the middle ground of customers will not just raise product quality and in-store standards, but also prices. This same price war works a little differently in the fashion market as there is a far greater choice of retailers, which cover every area of the price and quality spectrum. But, as the UK economy continues to improve, those at the very bottom will have to increase market share and profitability. The way to achieve this is by moving a brand up the ‘value added’ ladder. Providing a satisfying shopping experience that inspires and delights shoppers is key to being able to attract and retain customers going forward. Pep&Co has a strong singular description of what it does: it sells clothes at bargain prices. This should get it far enough as an introduction to the market, but as time goes on it too will need a message that is more mature and multi-dimensional. Seasonality, trends, elevating the product offer and customer service will have to play a more prominent role, all of which can be achieved with an enhanced in-store experience. The British customer is historically very fickle. A retailer may launch strongly, but this popularity can quickly fade if there is a lack of continual investment in keeping up with trends and offering more. A great example of a retailer that sells discount product with a perceived higher value, thanks to its in-store proposition, is Uniqlo. Across Japan the value fashion retailer trades from a variety of high and low profile shopper locations. This, alongside mammoth online sales and superstores in international cities, means it has the buying power to drive product prices low and compete with even the biggest discounters. Where Uniqlo stands out is through the perfection of selling basic products in volume, and doing so with an elevated brand position. It owns this corner of the market. Through expert visual merchandising, great customer service and a brand that exudes confidence, Uniqlo provides a credible proposition that appeals to the middle class shopper. For now, we should applaud Pep&Co. It has created a brand that within two months has a widespread footprint across much of the UK — introducing itself into the market quickly and gaining shoppers’ attention in doing so. Clearly, the retailer has achieved a tough ask in a competitive marketplace, during challenging trading conditions. But, like any retailer intent of achieving sustainable growth, let’s hope it doesn’t discount the importance of what comes next.
21
JAEGER
JOSEPH C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
MY
ANYA HINDMARCH
K
JOHN LEWIS
MICROSOFT / JOHN LEWIS
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
project focus
JOHN LEWIS Grand Central Birmingham
Design: In-house, gpstudio and Dalziel and Pow Opening date: September 2015 Store size: 23,225 sq m John Lewis has opened its first full-line shop since Westfield Stratford at the new Grand Central Birmingham development. The store is another step in the retailer’s importance of investing in physical shops as part of its growth strategy. Anchor tenant of the city’s new Grand Central retail development, Birmingham is the retailer’s largest shop to open in four years and one of the biggest John Lewis department stores in the UK. The retailer started design work on the Birmingham store more than three years ago, and it was designed and planned by the in-house store design team with input from gpstudio and Dalziel and Pow. John Lewis has a long-standing working relationship with both design agencies. Dalziel and Pow was actively involved with the concepts at Exeter and York and transferred some of that masterplanning, architectural approach into the first plans for Grand Central Birmingham, creating the initial template. Further work was undertaken around finishes, escalator treatments and shopfronts and most recently the insertion of a consumer electronics concept that frames that offer. ‘All of this work was carried out in close co-operation with the dedicated in-house design team at JLP, who then take our initial plans and proposals and create the multifaceted store we see today,’ explains David Dalziel, group creative director at Dalziel and Pow. ‘The in-house team are really connected to the traders brief and fully immersed in their brand; they are producing some very strong work right now, including the impressive Home offer in the Oxford Street flagship.’ The store is the retailer’s most innovative shop to date, debuting several brand new services and concepts including fashion and lifestyle concept, love&found as well as the first John Lewis-branded spa, & Beauty. These are all part of the company’s ambition to
23
project focus
expand the services and experiences within its portfolio of stores and its commitment to investing in shops as part of an omni-channel approach. ‘The shop features many new concepts and services across our Home, Fashion and Technology assortment. We wanted to make sure that our interior environment, the way in which we presented products and the playful visual merchandising all complemented the overall look of the shop,’ says Kim Morris, head of store design at John Lewis. ‘A strong palette of finishes was established during the design process, which all complement each other. It allows the merchandise to stand out and offers a blank canvas for the colourful visual merchandising. ‘We listened to customer feedback and they told us they want to be inspired when visiting our shops. Visual merchandising plays a key role in doing this, so we knew that we could push the boundaries, which is what we set out to do in Birmingham. We have added touches of humour and had a bit of fun across many departments,’ says Morris.
24
Visit us at MAPIC
The Prague Outlet will be the first premium outlet in the Czech Republic. Entirely different concept from any other outlet centre in Central and Eastern Europe, with exclusive luxury and designer brand mix, and picturesque Prague architecture.
www.thepragueoutlet.com
151015 inzerce.indd 1
15. 10. 2015 15:34:09
project focus
DR. MARTENS Oxford Street, London Design: Closed Sundays Store size: 102 sq m Opening date: August 2015
Dr. Martens has opened a store on London’s Oxford Street, highlighting the brands development and strengthening the position of the company as a multi-channel consumer facing brand. ‘When people come to London, they want to go home with something that captures the city and is idiosyncratic to the UK. Dr. Martens fits the bill perfectly because it’s all about culture, music and history. Our Oxford Street store brings this history and atmosphere to a big, global audience,’ explains Simon Jobson, the brand’s global marketing director. Dr. Martens has created this unique store design concept with the help of Closed Sundays, which is the first UK store to trade across three floors. ‘Dr. Martens wanted to give customers at their owned and operated stores a flavour
26
of their rich history and heritage. The brief for the store was to remove unnecessary embellishment and get back to basics, evoking the no-nonsense reputation of the brand,’ explains Jon Loizou, co-founder and creative director at Closed Sundays. The store features engaging wall elevations spanning all three staircases. The elevations tell the story of the brand, from the beginnings of an icon through to celebrating over five decades of Dr. Martens. Showcasing images from the ‘60s to the present day, the installation marks the brand’s unrivalled cultural relevance with social tribes and music. Many of the images feature in the Dr. Martens: A History of Rebellious Self Expression book, which features imagery and quotes from the likes of Pete Townshend, JJ Burnel, Joe Strummer, The
Specials, All Time Low and Ellie Goulding. ‘Music and Dr. Martens are inseparable, as are the brand’s beginnings from where it stands now, so it was our job to present this link to the past while allowing this progressive and inventive brand to continue to evolve. The store opening was also to coincide with the launch of the book. We used the space on the stairwells to paraphrase this story using imagery and selected copy,’ says Loizou. This store is the first of a second generation. Dr. Martens first hit the UK high street with its own stores in 2010, and five years on it was time for a facelift. ‘Pristine decorative display niches have been stripped back in place of more utilitarian displays, which harks back to Dr. Martens’ beginnings as a simple workwear boot. The whole store design now lets the product do the talking, which has always been its style,’ continues Loizou. The materials used in the store were a deliberate reflection of those used in the process of manufacture at the Dr. Martens factory in Wollaston. The overall colour palette, for the walls and ceilings, comes from the two most popular boot
project focus
options: black and oxblood. Metalwork is an industrial galvanised steel. For the details, Closed Sundays curated select cuts of leather from the factory; laser-etched leather panels to tell the story of the brand, hand-finished, as the shoes, with wax and shoe whitener to bring out the copy; and for the finishing touch, genuine priceless artefacts from the personal collection of Mick Jones (on loan to Dr. Martens from The Rock & Roll Public Library) were curated, including two pairs of his Dr. Martens boots and his 1958 Les Paul Junior Doublecut guitar. These items are displayed within bespoke illuminated display cases, and further cement the inseparable relationship between Dr. Martens and the British music scene. Artist Robi Walters has created a piece of artwork made from smashed vinyl worked
into the shape of the iconic eight-eye 1460 boot, displayed in a prime position on the ground floor. ‘I wanted my artwork to capture the energy and shared attributes of both a DM boot and the vinyl material itself — a beautiful, brutal explosion,’ says Walters. The Dr. Martens brand now has 22 owned and operated stores in the UK.
27
Call: 0845 680 7405 to advertise
Europe´s largest retailer and wholesale supplier for
Visual Merchandising
Phone: Freephone: Freefax: eMail:
0207 754 5499 008001 9637637 008001 9737737 sales@decowoerner.com
www.decowoerner.com
Colourful world of rapid changes… keep up! MULTIPLE LAYERS, UNIVERSALLY PRINTABLE, ATTRACTIVE RETAIL GRAPHICS
+ SUPERIOR MAGNETIC SHEET
www.anchormagnets.com/digifilm or call: 0114 244 1171
178wx127h Retail Focus Aug2015.indd 1
28
27/08/2015 17:05
project focus
TURNBALL + Mayfair, ASSER Davies Street, London Design: Shed Opening date: August 2015 Store size: 100 sq m
After completing Turnball and Asser’s new showroom last year, Shed was asked to look at a new retail store for the brand on Mayfair’s Davies Street. The brief was to create a sister store to the original Jermyn and Bury Street flagship whilst adopting the new retail concept. With Bridgford Interiors as principal contractor and Grade One PM as project manager, Shed created a concept that was developed to embody the spirit of the original Jermyn Street store, bringing a continued affinity between customers, clients and staff. All aspects of Shed’s scheme reflect the true spirit of Turnball & Asser — always crafted, authentic and at times diverse with a little touch of eccentricity. The store is spread over two floors and includes ready-to-wear retail on the ground floor and a bespoke lounge downstairs in the basement. The original building dates
29
project focus
back to 1910 and features many charming features which Shed has kept and treasured to maintain the character of the space and emphasise this British brand’s heritage connections. The architectural shell, which included the original timber floors and shop front, were all lovingly restored. The shirt room at the rear of the store includes an original fireplace which acts as a great focal point. The fire was re-instated to create a more intimate atmosphere through the winter months. ‘The original Jermyn Street and Bury Street stores date back to 1903. Many of the original features still stand today and thus this flagship is one of a kind,’ explains the Shed design team. ‘The shop frontage and panelled interior have preserved their Edwardian character and where required restoration has taken place to retain the established decorative style. ‘The overall design approach was to keep the shell clean with modest detailing, complimenting the original elements such as the restored skirting, dado and picture rails of the building to act as a backdrop for the new bespoke joinery pieces to be installed within. On the ground floor the shell has been treated with subtle tones
30
and textures of white on white with a dark blue band running above the picture rail of the perimeter walls.’ The payment areas on the ground and basement floor are integrated into the architectural shell, disguised behind display panel doors. Shed and Turnball & Asser felt it was best to move away from the traditional till point and chose a discrete solution that provided maximum space and emphasis on the display of the product in a small store whilst putting a more private stance on customer payment transactions. The store features an eclectic mix of freestanding features crafted by high quality furniture makers using traditional techniques. Each one of the furniture pieces is a unique creation by Shed, combining walnut, oak and mahogany with accents of several metals including brushed brass and Saint Laurent marble to create a refined but eclectic mix of furniture throughout. On the ground floor are several interchangeable cases housing various displays of robes, knitwear, pocket squares and pyjamas. The furniture pieces are testament to the craftspeople that created them and with unique personalities, befitting of Turnbull and Asser.
Downstairs has a much more intimate feel. It houses a private consultation area supported by displays containing cloth, collar and cuff samples. The floor finish is a luxury carpet with inset rugs subtlety weaving in some of the old emblems and patterns from the Turnbull and Asser back catalogue. Brass light fittings are suspended on dark tan leather straps, combined with soft dark blue wall coverings and handcrafted rich leather seating to create a comfortable and luxurious environment for the customer’s bespoke experience. Working with Globe Trotter, which created limited edition luxury cases with Turnball & Asser last year and visual merchandising trunks for the retailer’s South Street showoom, highly crafted bespoke trunks were developed for the store and these sit within the tall glass cases, providing another display platform. Low level mid-floor units create tiered displays, supported by tailored wall displays in front of the dedicated shirt room. This is flank by a four-metre long dresser which is home to many shirt variations, supported by freestanding, suede lined cabinets containing one-off cufflinks and tie pins.
Call: 0845 680 7405 to advertise I don’t care what you think. As of tomorrow, I’m with the No. 1.
For retail technology, the only place to be in Europe: EuroShop
Trade Fairs
E uroC IS 23–25 February 2016 The Leading Trade Fair for Retail Technology Düsseldorf, Germany
www.eurocis.com eurocis.com
All you need to know about retail technology: the hippest trends, the newest innovations, the most important developments. All in Düsseldorf, and all at EuroCIS – as always. Where else?
For further information contact ITSL Ltd _ Ramsay House _ Marchmont Farm Sponsor:
Link Road _ Hemel Hempstead Hertfordshire _ HP2 6JH Tel 01442 230033 _ Fax 01442 230012
www.ehi.org
2015-10-06 EuroCIS 2016_Großbritannien_Retail Technology_86 x 262mm_Retail Focus _4c_4609
HIGH PROFILE.
LOW PROFILE. Aesthetically pleasing low profile design Ease of movement for exact positioning Braked units lock displays in place Our ball transfer units are the ideal alternative to a castor, offering instant directional change. Our revolutionary new locking unit is a welcome addition to the designer’s palette. For advice or further information, contact our experts.
0121 380 4700 sales@alwayse.co.uk alwayse.co.uk
info@itsluk.com
31 2015-10-06 EuroCIS 2016_Großbritannien_Retail Technology_86 x 262mm_Retail Focus _4c_4609.indd 1
06.10.15 10:34
RIBA
RIBa
Regent Street
Windows Project 2015 RIBA architects partnered with 13 retailers in September to create engaging architectural installations in shop windows along London’s Regent Street. ‘The RIBA Windows Project highlights the versatility of RIBA architects and their unique ability to look at space differently. It’s an exclusive and high profile opportunity for the profession’s emerging and more established practices to test new ideas, apply their ingenuity and resourcefulness to different scales and work with space and structures in new and exciting ways,’ says Owen Wainhouse, RIBA London interim director. ‘Now in its sixth year, the RIBA Windows Project on Regent Street has been triumphant in showcasing high quality design and detailing in collaboration with world famous retail brands, and this year has been no exception, with architects exploring new concepts in craft, heritage and scale.’
Architects and retailers joined forces in September to create 13 window collaborations as part of RIBA’s Regent Street Windows Project 2015.
The windows
Karen Millen by HASSELL
Longchamp by LDVC Inspired by the iconic Longchamp bag, Le Pliage Heritage, LDVC has created an elegant floating mobile that engages with the bag’s shape and elements on various scales, and playfully integrates the product into the installation. The characteristic black handle of the Heritage bag takes on a chandelier form, while the body is formed by a field of stylised Heritage bags in semitransparent material, layered to create constantly changing transparencies, reflections and visual experiences.
Armani Exchange by Shiro Studio
Twisting printed fabric creates a magical wonderland across the entire 30m of Karen Millen’s windows. The structure explores drapery and the cut and fall of cloth using key printed fabrics created in the brand’s in-house Atelier and that feature in Karen Millen’s new collection. HASSELL’s design celebrates the brand’s femininity and the very craftsmanship that lies at the heart of the fashion industry.
Shiro Studio took inspiration from Nobel Prize writer, Luigi Pirandello’s novel titled, One, No One and One Hundred Thousand. The novel explores how reality and self-awareness is often illusory, subjective and becomes the expression of personal interpretations. This led the architect to conceive a pleated, fully-reflective wall. The variety, complexity and multitude of reflections generated is the core narrative. Clothes, people and streetscape blend in one single installation, offering an everchanging visual experience.
33
RIBA
Hamleys by Office S&M In celebration of the 255th anniversary of Hamleys toy store, the Hamleys Optical Amusements display holds a series of optical illusions, anamorphic distortions and an Ames room that children can peer into and view through small peepholes. These optical amusements, a main attraction in Victorian travelling circuses, will once again allow children to discover these enchanted worlds and experience fun and mystery from the past.
Anthropologie by EPR Architects Anthropologie is dedicated to hand-making and craft, recycling and rearranging materials to form captivating displays. Inspired by this approach, EPR Architects with Vertikal Space and the Materials Council explored the leftover space from scooping out bamboo to create a dynamic, engaging installation that references the brand’s seasonal range. The painted tips of the bamboo canes accentuate the form and change depending on whether it is viewed walking past, from a distance or up close.
Levi’s by AMD Interior Architecture AMD created an immersive environment for the flagship London store by extending the window display deep into the shop. This installation is inspired by a flock of birds in flight and takes visitors on a journey through the store using interpretations of jeans, sculpted and suspended from above. The display is punctuated with ‘moments’ that align with the retailer’s launch of its Lot 700 women’s denim collection, while the formation of the ‘journey’ jeans evokes a sense of transformation.
Crabtree & Evelyn by London Atelier English botanist, John Evelyn’s motto, ‘Omnia explorate, meliora retinete’ translates as ‘Explore everything, keep the best’. With this in mind, the design captures a memory of the tradition of English Still rooms. Their copper and brass utensils, wooden surfaces, colourful plants, remedies, potions and soaps provided a rich material pallet. The display is a choreographed ensemble of herbs, plants and flowers preserved in panes of soap within a brass grid lit by an LED matrix.
Brooks Brothers by Conran and Partners During a British game of Polo in 1896, Brooks Brothers discovered the button-down collar used to secure players’ collars while on horseback. They then famously introduced the button-down to men’s tailoring and turned it into a fashion icon. This flock of collars captured mid-flight evokes the sentiment of Brooks Brothers’ innovation, with a single gold button-down leading the formation. The collaborative installation is a physical interpretation of this inspiring story.
34
RIBA
Kiehl’s by Michaelis Boyd Associates The Universe of Kiehl’s is a futuristic vision of the intersection of science and nature, let loose across the Kiehl’s flagship store. Michaelis Boyd Associates has taken inspiration from the apothecary roots, rich heritage and personality of Kiehl’s to interpret its unfolding story. The brand’s passionate and adventurous approach to experiments and discoveries has led to an evocative concept that embodies these ideas with a colourful, eye-catching, eclectic and explosive experience.
Penhaligon’s by Space Group Architects Blasted: A Delusional Illusion. Inspired by the aromas of a Turkish baths, in 1870 William Penhaligon ‘bottled’ his first scent. Here, Space Group Architects has reversed this process to interpret two new fragrances to create immersive, multisensory spaces. The installation is an abstracted illusion of the aromas, and the environments that inspired their invention. Designed to be experienced both inside and outside, they blur the boundaries between Regent Street and the store.
L’Occitane en Provence by Coppin Dockray Architects L’Occitane en Provence has a strong association with the south of France and its evocative landscapes. A place of bright colours and vivid scents, it’s also where the brand’s natural ingredients are sourced. Framing the new skincare product from the Immortelle collection, the installation abstracts this unique environment, using the kaleidoscope as a metaphor. Harnessing the shifting daylight reflected in the shop window, the installation creates an ever-changing landscape.
Hotel Café Royal by Citizens Design Bureau Celebrating the 150th anniversary of the legendary Café Royal, vertical festoons of golden letters and edible delights fill the Regent Street window display. Inspired by the opulent colours of the café’s cakes and its history as a place of elegance and luxury, the display alludes to the rich heritage of an establishment that has boasted rock stars, royalty, Bohemian artists, writers, politicians and sports stars among its patrons.
Hawes & Curtis by Nick Wood (How About Studio) and Gillian Lambert Wood and Lambert’s highly resourceful window brings the product to the fore, taking inspiration from the contrast between Hawes and Curtis’ formal and casual range. A lenticular wall constructed from garments creates two specific viewpoints on the street, one for each of the distinct looks. Moving along the street will combine these images to provide an ever-changing collage and a visually immersive experience for passers-by.
35
Grand Central Birmingham
GRAND CENTRAL
BIRMINGHAM Introducing Birmingham’s newest shopping and dining destination.
Grand Central Birmingham finally opened its doors to the public on Thursday 24 September 2015. The £150m transformation has taken five years and sits above the city’s £600m New Street Station. There are 66 retailers and restaurants, some of which have chosen Grand Central as their first location in the city, such as The White Company, Hobbs, Joules, Foyles, Cath Kidston, Neal’s Yard and Tiger. Its development has changed the architectural horizon of Birmingham due to its high gloss mirrored exterior that snakes its way from Southside to Stephenson Street, and also its sheer impressive size. At 46,451 sq m, it comfortably houses 66 units as well as one of the biggest John Lewis stores in the UK — a 23,225 sq m four-floor store that includes a spa and its own restaurant. A stand out feature of the development, which was designed by architectural firm Haskoll, is the atrium over the New Street passenger concourse that allows natural daylight to flood into the space. AZPML was the concept architect for the station, atrium and exterior of John Lewis. David Leech, director of Haskoll, says: ‘Our role as lead architect for Grand Central was to create a new fusion for the retail environment, transforming the Pallasades shopping centre into a world class premium shopping and dining destination above a major transport hub. ‘One of our initial ideas was to extend the shopping centre to the south to create a new four level department store, This idea fulfilled the requirement for John Lewis as well as cleverly solving the buildability issues of working within the constraints of a complex existing building,’ continues Leech. It was this idea that evolved into the scheme as now built. ‘The retail layout was developed to achieve a natural pedestrian flow and clear views to all shop fronts,’ explains Leech. The dining terrace was developed as a new open area, dividing up individual space that would animate the edges of the atrium and create a place to dwell. ‘The new interior for the shopping centre took inspiration from both the ideas
38
that inspired the new station and the historic and romantic era of train travel. The curved lines in the ceiling and floor resonate from the atrium design. The new ceiling features in the food terrace and at each entry point to the centre feature copper and brass colours that are reminiscent of the railway carriages of the steam era,’ says Leech. Foyles’ store has been described as a retail space where physical meets digital. The 399 sq m store features a number of digital innovations to enhance customer service and experience. These include three audio-visual author pods and a children’s story pod, where customers can hear and see best-selling writers read their work aloud. Booksellers have handheld tablets, running a new Foyles web platform offering access to millions of books. Richard Brown, Grand Central’s development director, says: ‘Grand Central Birmingham presents one of the most exciting retail developments in the country to emerge in 2015. It will provide a unique shopping and station experience with retailers and restaurants surrounding the stunning atrium concourse forming Birmingham’s meeting place, where friends, family or colleagues go for a day of indulgence with exclusive shops and delicious food all in one place.’ The project had various environmental considerations, with 98 per cent of the material from the demolished Stephenson Street Tower being recycled for use on other building projects. ‘The scheme has transformed a poor, dated environment that all wished to escape quickly from, to a new destination at the heart of Birmingham,’ says Leech.
Grand Central Birmingham
Main image: The impressive atrium lets in plenty of daylight. Below: Grand Central Birmingham also offers a good selection of places to dine.
Below: Cath Kidston is one of several retailers that has chosen Grand Central as its first location in Birmingham. Physical meets digital at the new digitally enhanced Foyles bookshop.
Above: John Lewis is the anchor store at 23,225 sq m. Far left: New Street Station and Grand Central Birmingham at dusk.
• The project began in 2011 and has been in construction for five years.
• £150m premium retail and dining destination. • 66 retailers and restaurants. • 46,451 sq m centre. • 6,000 tonnes of concrete removed from the Pallasades shopping centre to allow more daylight in.
• 98 per cent of the material from the demolished Stephenson Street Tower has been recycled for use on other building projects. • Grand Central is the size of a football pitch and as high as eight double decker buses. • The new concourse is five times the size of London Euston. • Anticipated to attract more than 50 million visitors every year.
39
POP
POPAI Awards
2015 The retail marketing industry gathered in London in September to celebrate point-of-purchase excellence and creativity. The Lancaster Hotel in London played host to the ninth POPAI Awards in September, hosted by TV presenter and broadcaster, Richard Bacon. Organised by POPAI UK & Ireland, a total of 68 gold, silver and bronze awards were presented to winners, recognising different elements within the POP sector, with a final special recognition for the next generation of creative talent in the industry, with the Student Design Award. The panel of judges had a difficult task of shortlisting the finalists with everyone considered a winner. The Gold in the Display of the Year - Temporary category was won by InContrast for its Queen Bee Lip Tins display, created for Unilever UK. SP Group was also celebrating as the company walked away with Gold for Display of the Year – Permanent for its Holland and Barrett Tea Bar display, created for NBTY/Holland and Barrett. Other gold winners included Rockar at Bluewater Shopping Centre with Dalziel and Pow for the Flagship & Store category, Superdrug with AS Watson and arken P-O-P for the Sustainability category, and Nixon with Checkland Kindleysides for the Short Run – Permanent Display category. Martin Kingdon, director general of POPAI UK & Ireland, praised the winners: ‘Seeing so many positive success stories from our industry is heartening, and exemplifies the industry’s unswerving belief in the power of inventive, clear communication and the commercial value of getting it right in-store. It is also showcases a growing sophistication in approaches to retail display across traditional print and technology- driven platforms.’ For full information on this year’s gold, silver and bronze award winners, visit www.popai.co.uk/awards
Above: TV presenter and broadcaster Richard Bacon hosted the event. Below: InContrast won Gold in the Display of the Year - Temporary category for its Queen Bee Lip Tins display, created for Unilever UK. Bottom left: SP Group was awarded Gold for Display of the Year – Permanent for its Holland and Barrett Tea Bar display, created for NBTY/Holland and Barrett. Bottom right: Martin Kingdon, director general of POPAI UK & Ireland, delivering his opening speech.
41
London Design Festival
PURE INDULGENCE
Rebecca Cawood, head of marketing and communication at Sheridan&Co, indulged herself at London Design Festival last month.
The London Design Festival is one of those sensational events that us design junkies wait all year long for, so it felt like Christmas had come early when we learnt that there were 300 events taking place this year. LDF, now in its ninth year, has expanded to become so extensive in its reach and offering that it’s almost impossible to cover it all, let alone do it justice in one concise review. The two events that struck a chord with us were Tent London/ Super Brands and 100% Design. Tent London is our go-to exhibition. It never fails to impress, and this year was no exception. The mix of new and long-standing talent presented at the show inspired us. The space was divided up into different tiers, bringing together two floors of pure design. There are more than 443 designers from 29 countries displaying their fabulous work and unique creations. As usual, there was a plethora of innovative ideas, but the ones that stood out the most were the products and concepts that derive from a current social concern or ones that were made from the ‘earth’ out of natural materials. Tessa Brown’s enclosed tented space draws inspiration from her recent works that explore the capacity for textiles to transform space. This idea is distinctive from a social perspective as it presents new kinds of social interaction and secluded contemplation. This is very apt in today’s society where mobile phones and the internet consume our daily lives, often leaving people no time to themselves, with reflection and down time being an unfamiliar act. A product made from the ‘earth’, QueensSo Australia Hay_Stak are innovative beanbags stuffed with pure hay. This is a great example of the way in which products and spacial design are moving towards a more ‘untreated’ trend where natural resources are being utilised to make distinctive and individual products, and where the idea of de-standardisation becomes valued.
42
Main image: Anne Kyyrö Quinn was given the design auditorium walls at 100% Design to display her distinctive and striking wall art. 100% Design was our next destination. This is the UK’s largest trade event, aimed at architects, designers and other professionals in the creative industry. It’s a superb platform for a wide range of both contemporary design and new designers wanting to be seen and heard within the industry. The show dominates a huge space within Olympia London and is laid out in various sectors such as Interiors, Workspaces, Kitchens & Bathrooms and Design & Build. Each stand was a design piece in itself, with many of the exhibitors using the show to launch new products for the year. The theme for this year’s show was Design in Colour, which allowed the exhibitors to really push their own ideas and thoughts on 2016’s big colour trends. There were also some great talks held throughout the four days, which gave a broad oversight into the creative world, including practical talks on ‘How to start up a design business’ to more thought-provoking presentations like ‘Colour and light — one can’t exist without the other’. Anne Kyyrö Quinn, who makes bespoke acoustic wall coverings, was given the design auditorium walls to display her distinctive and striking wall art. This was an impeccable example of functional design, a trend that we believe to be more important that ever, especially as we view design from a retail space perspective. This year’s London Design Festival cultivated a free thinking and trend-based atmosphere in which not only the aspect of design is covered, but also the social matters that lie within our ever-changing society. These inspiring events not only celebrate creative work and thinking but also get people excited about the future and evolution of design.
London Design Festival
Around the city...
The Cloakroom by Faye Toogood British designer, Faye Toogood created 150 coats to be worn by V&A visitors whilst exploring the museum’s renowned collections. Taking her cue from fashion, Toogood invited guests at the V&A to check coats out of the circular-railed cloakroom and wear them whilst exploring the museum’s collections. The coats incorporated sewn-in maps that guided wearers to a further 10 specially-commissioned Faye Toogood garments, located throughout the museum.
Photo: Luke Hayes
The Flower Shop by Lee Broom Lee Broom transformed his Shoreditch flagship store into a sensory floral celebration. The Flower Shop was in celebration of the launch of Broom’s first collection of vases. Broom radically transforms his store every year into something new, and this was his biggest project yet, involving 4,000 flowers and a flower shop kitchen with edible floral treats.
The Tower of Babel by Barnaby Barford Standing proudly at 6m high in the V&A Museum, the Tower of Babel was made of 3,000 bone china shops, each one unique and depicting a real London shop photographed by the artist. Barford took to his bike, cycling more than 1,000 miles to explore all of the city’s postcodes and taking photographs of various shop facades. At the base the shops were derelict, while at the pinnacle were the crème-de-la-crème of London’s exclusive boutiques and galleries. These shops are available to buy via the V&A shop.
Heartbeat by Charles Pétillon Covent Garden’s Piazza was taken over by Heartbeat, an installation of 100,000 different sized balloons created by French artist Charles Pétillon. This was his first public art installation and his first ever live work outside of France. Heartbeat stretched 54m in length and 12m wide. It incorporated gentle pulsating white light to symbolise the beating of a heart and reflect the history, energy and dynamism of the district.
Zotem by Kim Thomé Visitors to the V&A Museum were greeted with Zotem, a bold and colourful installation conceived by London-based Norwegian designer Kim Thomé, in partnership with Swarovski. The 18m-tall, double-sided monolith was embedded with 600 over-sized Swarovski crystals and rose vertically from the museum’s Grand Entrance to the Ceramics Gallery directly above it on the sixth floor.
Curiosity Cloud by mischer’traxler mischer’traxler’s Curiosity Cloud in the V&A’s Norfolk House Music Room was inspired by the Art Nouveau movement. The installation comprised 250 mouth-blown glass globes made by Viennese glass company Lobmeyr. Each glass contained a single hand-fabricated insect, each one printed onto foil which was laser cut and then hand embroidered to create the body.
43
Cats A4_1 Ad_RT Lion & Kitten A4 30/08/2013 09:11 Page 1
Call: 0845 680 7405 to advertise
whether your problems are BIG or small
we are here for you
retailTRUST improving lives for all involved ...yesterday, today, tomorrow
call our free helpline
0808 801 0808 confidential and independent help for personal and work problems we are here 24hrs, 365 days Or get in touch via: Text HELPLINE to 88010 | helpline@retailtrust.org.uk | www.retailtrust.org.uk
retailEAP leading wellbeing for all
retailRIGHT
providing people for retail
Retail Trust is a registered charity in England and Wales (1090136) and in Scotland (SCO39684) Company No 4254201 (Company Limited Guarantee) Registered in England and Wales Registered Office: Marshall Hall, Marshall Estate, Hammers Lane, London, NW7 4DQ
Connections
Linking retail display buyers and suppliers
20th January 2016, The Building Centre, London
This intensive one day event could revolutionise your supplier network! FREE to buyers : Limited places available : To book email paula@sdea.co.uk or call 01883 348911
Shop and Display Equipment Association
44
opinion
BIRMINGHAM REGENERATION Sue Fabian, general manager at Umbrella Group, looks at the growing regeneration in Birmingham. Regeneration in Birmingham is turning the UK’s second city into a new retail mecca. New developments and the refurbishment of established retail centres will create a multi-faceted retail adventure for shoppers. However, while retailers will relish the traffic, the shiny new retail experience will almost certainly attract increased competition and presents both existing and new brands with a big challenge — how to inspire shoppers to make a bee line for your store and keep them returning for more?
Shock and awe Novelty is going to be a key factor to Birmingham’s longevity. If customers don’t find something to hook them in, they will quickly return to their usual shopping habits. Harvey Nichols has put novelty and experimentation at the heart of its new store. It’s a bold statement of intent for a premium retailer that in my mind is in desperate need of modernisation. Where it is restricted by the architecture of the London store, Birmingham’s blank canvas has given the brand the opportunity to present a no-holds-barred approach to creativity, and it shows. Controlled disruption is at the heart of the design and is punctuated by contrasting materials, textures and shapes. What they’ve done in Birmingham is extremely canny because even if you know and love Harvey Nichols, you’ll be coming to experience it in a whole new way.
Create a feast for the eyes Theatre and retail are synonymous. Like a good film or show, great retail grabs hold of the shopper and transports them to another place and time. The rest of the world falls away as they are immersed in a wonderful brand experience. To achieve this, brands have to be brave because it means cutting back on product density and replacing it with attractions that capture the imagination. River Island’s concept store is full of this kind of visual theatre. The brand has created space, height and opportunity to showcase forward fashion within the carefully delineated feature flooring. The trade off from ‘more £’s per sq ft’ to ‘less is more’ will need to work hard for them, and it will be interesting to see how long the pared back look will last.
Embrace exclusivity Offering a new, exciting shopping environment, quite literally a stone’s throw from major transport links, is a massive plus. It will capture consumers on their way into Birmingham, those passing through to other destinations and most importantly people looking for a day of retail therapy. But, if the stores only offer the same merchandise as their local flagship, once experienced, would you bother to travel there again? Once you take into account the cost of travel and time taken, will it hold the same pull? Like most cities, Birmingham could become a once-a-year shopping trip, which is unlikely to generate the return the heavy investment demands. John Lewis has more skin in the game than most, so it’s essential it can inspire repeat visits. Found, the brand’s take on a boutique, is an ideal way to do that. Not content with delivering
the biggest store outside of London, John Lewis is hitting consumers with a double whammy. Its Found boutique not only gives the retailer license to experiment with its environment, but it’s also a chance to introduce exclusivity into the mix.
Flaunt your best bits I like the approach that Debenhams has taken. I think it’s been extremely savvy in how it has approached the incoming traffic and competition. Rather than refurbish the entire store, it’s opted instead to focus on the most popular area, the beauty department. Debenhams, always brave, is concentrating on its best performing brands and offering them increased presence. Benefit Cosmetics built an in-store boutique with its own entrance. Offering additional services, it gives the Benefit customer a reason to shop in this particular store rather than John Lewis. It’s a win win. The department store, brand and the customer reap the rewards.
Deliver a complete experience It’s not just about the stores, you’ve got to think about the whole experience. The quality of the train journey; the facilities on offer for little ones and husbands who don’t necessarily want to be dragged around the shops; the quality of the streets and surrounding areas; the toilets. Everything needs to be taken into account. Some of these elements will not be under the retailers control but they must ensure it’s within their sphere of influence.
Location, location, location If I was in charge of a brand entering Birmingham’s new retail metropolis, I’d be asking myself in which of the shopping centres should I be locating my store. Can they all be super successful or will some be more successful than others? What I do know is that just because a shopping centre is successful doesn’t mean that all the shops in that centre will share in that success. Take Westfield in White City. It offers an excellent mix of retail that keeps shoppers excited and inspired but that doesn’t guarantee success for the individual retailer, as not all have been successful. Anthropologie failed to attract its normal audience. If I was to hazard a guess as to why, I’d say the store was probably too small so the ‘edit’ did not excite. This is an important point. When considering your location, you’ve got to think about every aspect. How visible are you? Is the store too small? Is it too big? Which other brands are in the vicinity? Expecting to do well just because you’re part of something exciting is madness. Matalan knows this. It’s only just coming onto Oxford Street having waited three years for the right spot.
www.umbrellagroup.eu 45
products
VM + DISPLAY Visplay The new Kimea P/L shopfitting system by Visplay is elegantly equipped with an invisible power supply. It enables easy use of lighting and modern media and is ideal for a multi-functional retail architecture. Kimea P/L can be used on furniture-like structures without rear panels, for greater transparency and a feeling of openness and space. Kimea P/L offers more freedom for your merchandising display. T. +49 (0) 7621 77 00 20 00 E. info@visplay.com www.visplay.com
Doro Tape UK For its new autumn collection window displays, LK Bennett specified one of the LG self-adhesive decorative films supplied by Doro Tape UK and commissioned Tenn to oversee the project. This particular film had been spotted on the Doro Tape UK stand at Retail Design Expo last March. The display consisted of dark wood plinths and picture frame partitions with the LG Gold Textured film chosen to centre the frame. The structure was supported using copper water piping giving a classic look with a modern twist to the whole display. LK Bennett was so impressed that it has asked Tenn to design its Christmas shop displays, once more incorporating the LG film from Doro Tape UK. T. +44 (0)1858 431 642 E: sales@dorotape.co.uk www.dorotape.co.uk Twitter: doro_tape
Andy Thornton When furnishing its Oxford Street store in London, Debenhams turned to retail display specialist Andy Thornton to showcase its new Mantaray women’s collection. Andy Thornton supplied a French farmhouse table in antique white with a reclaimed pine top and matching benches, both from the Urban Vintage collection. These provide plenty of space to display the neatly folded tops, shoes and accessories. Andy Thornton also supplied an apothecary display unit, painted a warm apple green, which creates a useful space with shelves to display props and accessories. T. +44 (0)1422 376 000 E. email@andythornton.com www.andythornton.com Twitter: andythorntonltd
Universal Display Artisan is a collection of hand-crafted busts and mannequin forms available from Universal Display. The range comes in various combinations of media including metal, wood, fibreglass and papier-mâché. The mannequins and forms are covered in Calico that has been hand-stitched and carefully aged to give an authentic vintage feel. T. +44 (0)20 8206 5010 E. info@universaldisplay.co.uk www.universaldisplay.co.uk Twitter: UDisplay
48
products
arken POP arken POP is a leading manufacturer of graphic display products. Its quality products are built to last and withstand the rigours of the in-store environment. The vast range, based around the clip frame system that was originated by arken, includes its Purelite LED light boxes, hanging systems, window displays, pavement signs and forecourt signs alongside bespoke solutions. In addition to graphic displays, arken also designs, develops and manufactures award-winning bespoke POP displays, supplying retailers in many sectors including consumer electronics, cosmetics and FMCG. T. +44 (0)1638 565 656 E: info@arken-pop.com www.arken-pop.com Twitter: arkenPOP
Kee Safety The Kee Klamp range of tubular fittings from Kee Safety provides the ideal combination of retail form and function, helping to store and display products effectively whilst creating an attractive, contemporary, urban styling for stores. Kee Klamp can be used to quickly and easily build a wide variety of tubular structures for front and back of store applications in a choice of different and easily adjustable configurations. These include clothing racks and rails, window displays, product shelving, store furniture, in-store kiosks and frames for mirrors, artwork and graphic panels, etc. T. +44 (0)1384 632 188 E. sales@keesafety.com www.keesafety.co.uk Twitter: KeeSafetyLtd
Panache Display Panache Display has added a new twist to its Nouveau Edit collection of mannequins, not only with the natural linen covered torsos and wooden articulated hands but with a real copper finish to the arms and legs. The copper contrasts beautifully with the natural linen and is created by spraying real copper filings which have all the properties that make copper such an interesting substrate. The finish will age and distress naturally as with real copper. The more the mannequin is handled, the copper finish will tarnish creating a natural patina which is so on trend in all areas of design. T. +44 (0)20 8752 2520 E. info@panachedisplay.co.uk www.panachedisplay.co.uk Twitter: PANACHEDISPLAY
W&Co Market research has shown that illuminating promotional graphics massively increases attention to the advertisement. However, retailers have not been able to tap into this major benefit outside of shops — until now. The innovative Venus LED illuminated pavement sign, offered exclusively from W&Co, will give your advertising greater impact and increase sales — a must for the darker winter months. Backlit with an Osram LED light panel, the Venus offers superior brightness and even illumination with adjustable brightness modes. A rechargeable lithium battery, sourced from the aerospace industry, is housed securely inside the base, providing up to a remarkable 18 hours of illumination from a single charge. Autumn offer: 30 per cent off RRP while stocks last - RRP £570, now only £399. T. +44 (0)1708 863 260 E. info@w-co.co.uk www.w-co.co.uk Twitter: WandCo
49
URBAN VINTAGE RETAIL DISPLAY
56 PAGE CATALOGUE ON REQUEST The Urban Vintage collection from Andy Thornton includes a complete range of industrial-style retail display products including shelving units, garment rails, drawer units, cabinets, trolleys and display tables, plus furniture, decorative lighting and tin tiles. Send for your copy. Call: 01422 376000 Email: marketing@andythornton.com Online: andythornton.com
THE ORIGINAL
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS IN BUSINESS
AT-RetailFocus-2015-June2015.indd 1
29/06/2015 16:19
products
FLOORING Moduleo Luxury vinyl flooring manufacturer, Moduleo will be exhibiting at Sleep 2015 for the second consecutive year. The manufacturer will be showcasing its Next Generation of products to the hotel market, which include an extension of its Transform collection, Impress range, and a new parquet offering. The Transform collection is a development of the existing range and features eight new designs in 42 colour options, seeing Moduleo broaden its market share. The Impress collection features five new wood designs with 22 colour options; all with registered embossing to ensure they are the ultimate in realistic and nature-inspired design. Meanwhile the new parquet option is available on all products in the Transform and Impress collections. T. +44 (0)1332 851 500 E: salesuk@moduleo.com www.moduleo.co.uk Twitter: ModuleoUK
Forbo Flooring A range of floor coverings from Forbo Flooring Systems’ integrated and comprehensive product portfolio have been installed throughout Maro Developments’ prestigious bespoke new office headquarters for Matalan at Knowsley, as part of a major relocation project for the retailer. Flooring includes Create Space 1 in Ebonite and Create Space 2 in Licorice for the offices, linoleum from Forbo’s Marmoleum Piano and Fresco collections in some of the stairwells and tech rooms, Slip resistant Surestep and Safestep vinyls were installed in the shower rooms, back of house areas and kitchen areas. T. +44 (0)1773 744 121 E. info.flooring.uk@forbo.com www.forbo.com Twitter: ForboFlooringUK
Polyflor Vinyl flooring from Polyflor’s new high design and high performance Expona Flow range has been installed in the refurbished visitor centre at RSPB Bempton Cliffs nature reserve near Bridlington, East Yorkshire. Around 240 sq m of Expona Flow heavy commercial sheet vinyl flooring in Honey Beige was installed throughout the visitor centre’s exhibition area and gift shop by Paul Hood & Son flooring contractors of Hull. T. +44 (0)161 767 1111 E. info@polyflor.com www.polyflor.com Twitter: Polyflorltd
Polyflor Polyflor has launched the Affinity255 range of high design, heavy commercial luxury vinyl tiles, which have been created to work in perfect harmony with vinyl sheet flooring ranges. Featuring an eclectic mix of 16 authentically reproduced wood plank designs, the 2mm gauge Affinity255 collection offers straight forward installation alongside 2mm vinyl sheet flooring, providing a beautifully seamless flooring solution that flows throughout any commercial installation. Affinity255 luxury vinyl tiles blend effortlessly with Polyflor’s 2mm gauge heterogeneous, homogeneous and safety flooring ranges, such as Expona Flow PUR, Pearlazzo PUR and Polysafe Verona PUR. This makes it easy to create flowing pathways, zones and dual purpose areas within retail environments where different specifications of flooring need to be installed side by side, without the need for levelling trims between areas. T. +44 (0)161 767 1111 E. info@polyflor.com www.polyflor.com Twitter: Polyflorltd
51
products
SURFACES + FINISHES Armourcoat Armourcoat Rusteel has won the NAS (National Association of Shopfitters) Design Partnership Product of the Year Award 2015. The Rusteel finish 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. T. +44 (0)1732 460 668 E: sales@armourcoat.co.uk www.armourcoat.com Twitter: Armourcoat
Johnson Tiles Loft from Johnson Tiles replicates stripped and distressed wood but with a difference. Instead of a traditional wood palette, each tile has its own individual characteristics and colours, with the design even replicating the appearance of planks that still bear the remnants of surface paint. The realistic effects are enhanced by the random mix of design and tone contained in each pack of Loft tiles, which gives an effective modern, vintage blend of denim and beige tones. Loft can be laid in any pattern including herringbone. T. +44 (0)1782 575 575 E: info@johnson-tiles.com www.johnson-tiles.com Twitter: JohnsonTiles
Surface Styling by IDS With Surface Styling from IDS, there’s no need to worry over which is the right surface material for your project. This unique specification platform offers a world of design inspiration from over 40 leading surface material brands, is supported by a 24-48 hour sampling service and guarantees architects and designers expert technical and product advice to make all the right choices. Designers have access to an unparalleled portfolio of prestigious brands in laminates, solid surface, decorative panel, wall panelling, flooring and worktops such as Hanex, Kronoswiss, Formica, Polyrey and Fenix NTM with the benefit and ease of one point of contact for enquiries, sampling, advice, order management and delivery. With multiple surfaces required for interior projects, Surface Styling offers an effective and speedy resource. T. +44 (0)845 603 7811 E. info@surfacestyling.co.uk www.surfacestyling.co.uk Twitter: SurfaceStyling
52
Avonite This elliptical reception desk at Bayern Munich football club was manufactured to the club’s corporate red using the Chromatix colour matching service from Avonite. With Chromatix, the Glass and Petals translucent solid surface within the Studio Collection can be custom-matched to a specified colour using the Pantone Matching System. T. +44 (0)845 603 7811 E. info@avonitesolidsurface.co.uk www.avonitesolidsurface.co.uk Twitter: AvoniteSurfaces
products
TECHNOLOGY ADT Fire and Security After ADT installed a new fogging system at second-hand fashion store Salou in London, an intrusion was successfully thwarted with would-be burglars only managing to steal a single boot. The fogging system, along with CCTV surveillance and security grills, has been selected to provide the highest level of protection for the store’s staff and merchandise. While CCTV surveillance from ADT and security grills help deter burglaries out of hours, Salou also required protection when the store was open. ADT recommended a fogging system, designed to rapidly repel intruders. T. +44 (0)1932 743 333 www.adt.co.uk Twitter: ADT_UK
Checkpoint Systems The EVOLVE MV E10 2.0 antenna from Checkpoint Systems features a highly customisable design and the ability to leverage powerful data analytics to empower loss prevention, operations and merchandising apparel retail professionals. In addition, the E10 2.0 comes in RF, RFID and dual-mode (RF/RFID) versions to meet the specific needs of retailers and enables them to future proof their business investments. The antenna can be used as a sleek see-through acrylic design, or can be changed instantly to become an advertisement panel for a store’s products, simply by inserting graphic panels that are held in place by the elegant standard display. T. +1 1800 257 5540 www.checkpointsystems.com Twitter: CheckpointSys
Futura Retail Solutions With plans to open 10-12 stores per year for the next three years, Max 99p has selected the Futura EPOS and head office retail management system to provide a fast, flexible and robust retail solution capable of supporting staff in store and at head office as the brand grows. Key factors for choosing Futura included strong sector experience, an easy to use yet functionally rich EPOS solution, which is quick to deploy, combined with in-depth access to the management information and reporting that is so essential for a young, dynamic and fast moving business. Futura will also support the management of a growing inventory with some 3,500 SKUs, where efficient allocations and accurate replenishment is essential to meet customer demand. T. +44 (0)1189 841 925 E. sales@futurauk.com www.futura4retail.co.uk Twitter: Futura_retail
54
Box Technologies Box Technologies is transforming the in-store customer experience with the launch of its Cielo mobile tablets and Cielo mOve docking system. Designed to create a seamless in-store experience, the compact point of sale device gives retailers and other customer-facing organisations the flexibility to engage and interact with consumers throughout the sales process. This will provide an effective and flexible point of sale alternative to existing tablets, fixed tills as well as information points. T. 01844 264 000 E. sales@boxtechnologies.com www.boxtechnologies.com Twitter: BoxTechnologies
Retail Focus Oct 15_Layout 1 13/10/2015 15:13 Page 1
Display System from Morplan
● ● ● ●
easily customised industrial look galvanised finish flexible & versatile
10 % OFF
Call 0 330 and q 44 55 023 uot code e offer REF10 *
* Offer valid until 31st December 2015. Can only be used once per customer. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid instore and via Telesales only.
Click
morplan.com
Call
0330 44 55 023
Call & Collect from one of our three stores - full details online London 020 7636 1887 Bristol 0117 964 3883 Glasgow 0141 429 0537
products
LIGHTING RIDI Lighting RIDI Lighting has launched the KARO spotlight, a futuristic square LED spotlight suitable for contemporary retail or exhibition spaces. With excellent light output performance and full 360° rotation of the light, RIDI has created a versatile luminaire that can be utilised in both large and small lighting applications. The spotlight provides a comfortable 2,500 or 3,500 lumens from its uniform formation to create a flattering effect that will suit any modern commercial environment. T. +44 (0)1279 450 882 E. enquiries@ridi.co.uk www.ridi.co.uk
Reggiani Lighting Reggiani Lighting has supplied two of its prime luminaires for the new Harvey Nichols concept store at The Mailbox in Birmingham. More than 800 large Reggiani YORI luminaires incorporating 30W LEDs were selected in black for a wide range of areas across the store, including womenswear, menswear, perfumery, lingerie and shoe departments. They are fitted onto pre-existing tracks and placed within black channels to blend seamlessly with the dark ceiling design. The extended and luxurious changing room space for the new store utilises Reggiani’s Trybeca round recessed luminaires using 8W LEDs. T. +44 (0)20 8236 3000 E: sales@reggiani.co.uk www.reggiani.net Twitter: @reggianilight
Display Lighting Display Lighting is celebrating 15 years of manufacturing and supplying specialist lighting systems for retail display applications. The company’s key objective has always been to assist retailers to display merchandise in the best light with the ultimate goal to increase sales. Since the company was founded, the in-house product design team has created an enviable selection of specialist lighting products to suit any display application utilising the latest technology, including LED lighting. T. +44 (0)161 207 3355 E. sales@display-lighting.com www.display-lighting.com Twitter: DisplayLighting
56
LED Eco Lights Retrofit LED lighting specialist LED Eco Lights has been awarded ISO 9001:2008 certification. Recognised throughout the world, this accreditation confirms that quality management systems are in place to ensure that procedures and processes followed by the business meet the highest possible standards. It also enables the company to continually monitor, manage and improve quality across all operations. T. +44 (0)845 218 3786 E. sales@ledecolights.com www.ledecolights.com Twitter: Goodlight_LED
R_Focus_Manta_Hacel_2015.qxp_Layout 1 19/06/2015 10:37 Page 1
M a n t a : L E D S i n g l e Po i n t
Sharp yet Sophisticated The refined Manta LED, designed and manufactured in the UK by Hacel combines state of the art Zhaga single point LED modules and exceptional CRIs. This is a distinguished product showcasing an inspired design, bringing a unique dimension to innovative spotlight illumination. Artistic Flair. Advanced Performance.
Our stunning new Fluent in Lighting Catalogue presents a dynamic range of architecturally inspired, class leading LED luminaires with superior perfomance. Request your high quality catalogue at marketing@hacel.co.uk or Download Now www.hacel.co.uk
mannequins
focus on: mannequins This month we bring you an army of striking, confident and elegant mannequin forms. From Global Display’s Eco design to the streetwise New Generation range from Genesis, these mannequins are boldly working it on the high street.
Take your pick Rare Basic mannequins from IDW are available on a three week lead time, direct from Europe. The company offers more than 300 poses and the mannequins are recyclable. Rare Basic claims it has the widest and most comprehensive selection of finishes available in the design industry.
www.rarebasic.co.uk
Standing strong Noble is the male equivalent of Aloof, a female Schläppi mannequin that was launched in 2014. The concept behind Noble is to travel with the changing face of fashion whilst retaining familiarity with the past. His form is natural, familiar and strong, his pose and mood is otherwise modern. Bonaveri has achieved an aesthetic that draws inspiration from the past whilst interpreting a future. Bonaveri mannequins are available in the UK from Blue Studio.
www.bonaveri.com
Eco warrior Combining sustainability with artistic freedom, Global Display’s body forms feature natural fibre reinforced polymers to deliver high quality finishes and intricate sculptural detailing. Patented production techniques in combination with a unique bio-resin create the ultimate Eco mannequin. The range comprises female, male, kids forms and accessories.
www.global-display.co
59
mannequins Young at heart Young, cool and dressed in casual street style is how Genesis presents its New Generation range. These female and male mannequins were especially designed for denim, street wear and young fashion. These modern, contemporary looking mannequins represent today’s generation of young adults. The mannequins are available with realistic as well as with abstract and semi abstract heads. Additionally they can be adapted to the customer’s corporate design by various colours, finishes or heads.
www.genesis-display.com
On form proportion>london presents THEORY-MAN, the male mannequin counterpart to THEORY-FEMALE. With his lean body shape, symmetrical poses and soft features, THEORY-MAN is available with a straight or wide leg, practical straight arms, hands in pockets or behind back, and features a variety of head styles including realistic, abstract and a short undercut sculpted hair.
www.proportionlondon.com
Feel the flow Chic from Universal Display is a collection of timeless designs that have modern, simple, flowing lines which work effortlessly with the latest fashion lines. The range is available in standard or bespoke colours and can be specified in either fibreglass or polyurethane. Universal Display will be premiering Chic as part of the Retail Design Collective in New York on 2-4 December 2015.
www.universaldisplay.co.uk
Full of confidence CNL Mannequins from Barthelmess UK introduces Serenity, featured here in a Venice finish. The mannequin is finished, designed and sculpted in California and captures the fashion mood of today — calm, collected and confident. The company offers high quality, affordable mannequins from £200 ex-works in both fibreglass and recyclable polyurethane in a huge variety of styles and finishes, all with unique magnetic arm fittings.
www.barthelmessuk.com
60
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
62
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.
Spur Creative Workshop deliver unique visual merchandising solutions for retail brands. Boasting a wealth of experience in high quality prop making we create display concepts for window staging, POS and brand awareness campaigns.
T, 020 3260 3888 E. info@axiseurope.com W.www.axiseurope.com/retail S. www.twitter.com/AxisEuropePlc
T 01892 890608 E: phil@spurcreative.co.uk W www.spurcreative.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/ spur_creative
Design Consultancies
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.
Walker Bros (Elland) Ltd is an Engineering Manufacturing company specialising in sheet metalwork and plastic fabrication. We supply precision metal and plastic products, components and light fabrications to a broad range of industries and markets throughout the UK and Europe.
IGNITION is an independent creative company Our multi-disciplined team work together to deliver exceptional retail and commercial environments, global exhibitions and brands.
T. 01325 351 276 E. sales@microslat.com W. www.microslat.com S. www.twitter.com/MicroSlat
T, 08705 340 340 E. customerservices@bbrown.co.uk W. www.bbrown.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/luvbbrown
T: 0 01422 310767 E: sales@wbelland.com W: www.wbelland.com
T, +44 (0) 1179 725168 E. victoria@ignitiondg.com W. www.ignitiondg.com
Aluminium Fittings
Bespoke Display
Bespoke Display
Brochure Holders
Design Consultancies
Design Consultancies
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.
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.
Brochure Holders International Limited is part of the global Taymar group recognised as a leading manufacturer of premium quality injection moulded leaflet holders and display solutions. Committed to on-going product development the Taymar group offers one of the world’s largest collections of ‘clear view’ wall, floor and counter standing brochure displays.
We are TWO Visual, the retail agency specialising in visual merchandising. Led by brand directors Jeanette Cheetham and Brendan Gordon we provide everything retailers need to make their brands visually dynamic, whilst improving team and commercial performance.
T: 0 01422 310767 E: sales@wbelland.com W: www.wbelland.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)1473 229250 E: sales@brochureholders.co.uk W: www.brochureholders.com
T, +44 (0) 1858 414275 E. hello@twovisual.co.uk W. www. twovisual.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/TWO_Visual
Balloons & Bunting
Bespoke Display
Climate Control
Display
No.1 Advertising Balloon Service: • Printed Latex and Foil Balloons • Helium Gas delivery and collection • Flags, Bunting and Banners • Promotional Sashes and T-shirts • Multi-store distribution nationwide
KSF provides retail merchandising display solutions to retailers, brands and trade customers from CONCEPT to COMPLETION via our global supply chain (China/UK/East EU) to deliver LOWER total cost of ownership. YOU’VE TRIED THE REST; NOW PUT US TO THE TEST.
Air Control & Development Ltd are Daikin, Mitsubishi and Toshiba accredited contractors, specialising in providing quality air conditioning, ventilation and overdoor heater installations, service & maintenance within the retail sector.
arken are a UK design and manufacturing facility creating bespoke poster display solutions. As well as our bespoke offer, we provide off the shelf products such as poster frames, light boxes, poster hanging systems, pavement signs, forecourt signs, all available in a range of colours and sizes.
T, 01494 774376 E. sales@b-loony.com W. www.b-loony.com
T: +44 (0)8450 944 699 E: ben.wang@ksf-global.com W: www.ksf-global.com S: www.twitter.com/KSFGlobal
T 01922 455523 E: info@aircontrol.co.uk W: www.aircontrol.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/AirControl123
T: +44 (0)1638 565656 E: info@arken-pop.com W: www.arken-pop.com
63
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
64
Graphics
With over 30 years of experience providing magnetic media for retail applications, we are your perfect partner with the largest range of wide format printable magnetic sheet and wide format DigiFilm® Ferrous Media.
T: 0114 244 1171 E: sales@anchormagnets.com W: www.anchormagnets.com
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
Directory
Slatwall
Interactive Displays
Permanent POS
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.
> In house design and manufacture of permanent displays > Powder coated steel, stainless steel, plastics and print used in any combination > Rapid prototyping and batch manufacture > Confidentiality assured > Let us help you improve your product sales` Find out why our customers keep returning for more………
> In house design and manufacture of permanent displays > Powder coated steel, stainless steel, plastics and print used in any combination > Rapid prototyping and batch manufacture > Confidentiality assured > Let us help you improve your product sales` Find out why our customers keep returning for more………
Specialist Stockist of Aluminium Extrusions and Mild Steel Fittings for the shopfitting industry.
T: 01482 345067 E: sales@jcrpos.co.uk W: www.jcrpos.co.uk S. @JCR_POS
T: 01482 345067 E: sales@jcrpos.co.uk W: www.jcrpos.co.uk S. @JCR_POS
T: 01273 582241 E: info@d-i-a.net W: www.d-i-a.net S. www.twitter.com/DesignsinAlumin
T: +44 (0) 1634 292 025 E: info@crystal-display.com W: www.crystal-display.com S. www.twitter.com/CrystalDisplays
Lighting
POP/POS
LED Solutions are a specialist LED lighting supplier who can offer you a wide variety of bespoke lighting solutions for the sign, shop fitting and display industries.
Custom made, 20mm deep LED Edge lit ‘Diamond’ light boxes, and 8mm deep ‘Garnet’ light panels for retail display, signage and advertising.
T: 0116 262 5933 E: sales@ledsolutions.co.uk W: www.ledsolutions.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/ LEDSolutionsUK
T: 0333 123 0345 E: Sales@ways2display.com W www.artillus.com Web: www.ways2display.com
Literature Display Solutions
POP/POS
Brochure Holders International Limited is part of the global Taymar group recognised as a leading manufacturer of premium quality injection moulded leaflet holders and display solutions. Committed to on-going product development the Taymar group offers one of the world’s largest collections of ‘clear view’ wall, floor and counter standing brochure displays.
We specialise in Point of Sale (POS) and Point of Purchase (POP). We design, manufacture and fit retail fixtures and store displays and we’re good at it. For over 55 years Axiom has been designing and producing exciting and innovative retail displays for well known brands and retail groups.
T: +44 (0)1473 229250 E: sales@brochureholders.co.uk W: www.brochureholders.com
Maintenance
Air Control & Development Ltd are Daikin, Mitsubishi and Toshiba accredited contractors, specialising in providing quality air conditioning, ventilation and overdoor heater installations, service & maintenance within the retail sector.
T 01922 455523 E: info@aircontrol.co.uk W: www.aircontrol.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/AirControl123
T: +44 (0)161 681 1371 E: info@axiom-displays.co.uk W: www.axiom-displays.co.uk
POP/POS
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: 0161 477 8501 E: info@ipos-design.co.uk W: www.ipos-design.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/iposdesign
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
Retail Consultancy
We are a global retail agency. Visual Thinking develops strategy, skills, hearts and minds to deliver retail excellence and transform brand performance.
T, +44 (0) 1788 543 331 E. mail@visualthinking.co.uk W. www.visualthinking.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/shoptactics
Extensive stock held of: *Slotted uprights *Aluminium slatwall *Perimeter Sections *Corner sections *Design and bespoke service.
Slatwall
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. 01325 351 276 E. sales@microslat.com W. www.microslat.com S. www.twitter.com/MicroSlat
VM
MTFX Winter Effects artificial display snow range includes all you need to give your displays the crispness of a winter setting or the chill of a frosty Christmas.
T: 01452 729903 E: info@mtfx.com W: www.mtfx.com
VM - Training & Tools
We are a global retail agency. Visual Thinking develops strategy, skills, hearts and minds to deliver retail excellence and transform brand performance.
T, +44 (0) 1788 543 331 E. mail@visualthinking.co.uk W. www.visualthinking.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/shoptactics
65
Q&A
Eva Mai, DVP visual artistic director, visual merchandising at Coach, reveals her path taken into the VM industry, her most proud window displays and trend predictions for 2016. How long have you been at Coach? RF. EM. Eleven months. RF. Why did you decide to follow a path in visual merchandising? EM. It all happened by chance really. I was working as a graphic designer but I missed the spatial design aspects. I have always loved creating installations, so the more I worked solely on the computer, the less I tapped into my creativity. Luckily my mother found a scholarship to study a Masters in window display design in Florence. I had worked in retail and looked after the store displays, I had just never considered it was a job, let alone a career or something to do a Masters in. I won the scholarship and moved to Italy to study and work in VM. I was 23 and it was like someone turned on all the lights so I could see exactly where I needed to be professionally. RF. What does your role at Coach involve? EM. I am lucky enough to work on a great variety of projects for Coach. My team looks after global window campaigns, bespoke displays, branding displays, creative pop-ups, instore furniture and decorative, showrooms, and we’re also involved with fashion show set-ups and press events like Coachella. RF. What are you currently working on? EM. Currently in the studio, the team are working on June displays for 2016, all sorts of creative projects for Coach’s 75th anniversary (2016) and the opening set-up of our new flagship and showroom in Paris. RF. What’s been your most stand-out window scheme/in-store display you’ve worked on? EM. That’s tough, I guess I have two... We have had so much great feedback on our Wildbeast display; that of course is a highlight for myself and the team. It was a labour of love, hand made and only in six stores in the world, so the impact it had was extraordinary. On the other hand, I also really love our Brooklyn Bridge window — it’s a feat of design and engineering as we created a completely aligned 2D/3D ‘full bridge’ perspective within a space of only 80cm and now it’s installed in more than 200 stores worldwide. RF. What trends do you predict for 2016? EM. I am really interested in interactive displays, adding technology and passer-by interactions to our displays. I see other great VMs beginning to use more technology in their displays so I
66
think we will continue to see this as a trend in 2016. I am also really interested in juxtaposed and fused materials; two seemingly divided elements being merged into one; natural vs man-made or hard vs soft. Alot of designers I speak with nowadays are interested in exploring tensions between two forces; creating beautiful hybrid designs that speak on more than one level. I would say that will definitely be a trend in 2016. RF. Who or what inspires you? EM. My team. I love the completely different life experiences and creative styles that meld together to reinvent and drive the visuals daily. There is a great inspiration in working with extremely talented people. As I’m new to New York, I would also say this city and its constant support of creative expression. It is a city that not only brilliantly supports all major art forms but also supports more niche events. For example, I just experienced a wonderful show, Nufonia must fall, which was a mash-up of Kid Koala scratch DJing, a string quartet and a silent puppet theatre story being filmed in real time, all on one stage in front of the audience. Amazing! So if you want to experience something, be it widely accepted or new and niche, in NY you can find it. What advice would you give to someone looking to start a RF. career in VM? EM. Get in-store. The job starts and ends on the shop floor. The more you know about your clients and the business, the better you will be at your role. The best VMs I know combine the art of arrangement with a clinical business mind to drive sales. And, for those wanting to be window designers, immerse yourself in all art forms, hone your production skills and be ridiculously passionate. Windows are all about seduction... you cannot create desire if you are blasé or badly executed.