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Make Space Count in Small Store with Efficient Retail Shelving

Posted by Robert Walthall on Sat, Feb, 07, 2015 @ 08:00 AM

shutterstock_121221001If your retail store is quite small, you might find it difficult to create displays that truly do their job. In a small space, large displays can actually make customers feel claustrophobic.

Fortunately, the right retail shelving can help you create attractive displays – and maximize the space in your retail store – so that you can have attractive displays, store merchandise neatly so that customers can find it, and maximize efficiency at the same time.

Maximize your space by using the "right" retail shelving for the job

  • Use gondola shelving only sparingly

Gondola shelving is usually a standard workhorse for most retailers, but it can be clunky and overwhelming in a small space. Use it sparingly and only when necessary. For example, you may place a single gondola run or island strategically in the middle of your store for a "main display" set up, or you may choose to place the occasional end cap or wall unit out of the way for heavy items that need to be displayed when no other type of shelving will do.

  • Slatted gondola units can do the job of gondola shelving in smaller spaces

While slatted gondola units can't quite handle the weight of merchandise that standard gondola shelving can, they will do the job without the bulk for lighter items. With slatted gondola units, you have all the benefits of gondola retail shelving in a slightly lighter version – and slatted gondola units are mobile. Simply move them as you need to.

  • Make use of wall space with "wall-based" retail shelving

Slatwalls, gridwalls, gondola wall units, and gridwall are all storage and display options that let you make use of wall space instead of floor space. Don't cover every square inch of your walls with storage and display options, but do move some retail shelving options to the walls so that you can use your floor space for other purposes. While gondola wall units should be reserved for heavy items, slatwall shelving and slatted gondola units can be used for lighter weight and medium weight items.

  • Use movable retail shelving and fixtures whenever you can

Finally, even though gondola shelving is movable (just break down and set up again), the best retail shelving options for your small store may be those that are mobile. Slatted gondola units, freestanding wire rack displays, and other "pick up and move" display options mean that you can change positioning in a second.

  • Table displays work too – if you use them thoughtfully

Even though you are working with limited floor space, you can still use table displays judiciously. Place a single table display at the entrance to your store for your newest hot-selling item, or for "quick pick-up" items like vitamins or over-the-counter medications.

  • Countertops are valuable real estate in a small store

Finally, don't forget your countertops; they can display small items at checkout that are good profit makers for you, such as candy and gum; or for things customers need, such as adhesive bandages, travel-sized personal and hygiene items. Merchandise that customers buy last-minute and often on impulse -- display them at the end of the shopping trip, so customers are reminded of that "just one more thing" they need, and that you can profit from.

The right retail shelving can turn your small store from claustrophobic to expansive. Make all of your displays count and waste nothing, use wall space to open up floor space, and use movable retail shelving options for greater flexibility. There is no need to be crowded – but also there is no need to skimp on merchandise displays, either. You can have the best of both worlds.

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Topics: retail shelving

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