Retail Design and Layouts That Will Give Your Store a Boost

Julie Starr • July 2, 2021



We all know that consumers are visual people. When they walk into a retail store or somewhere like a restaurant or bakery, then there is so much sensory information that is sent from our eyes to our brains. In fact, around 80% of the information that our brain receives is what we see. As a retailer, you need to be able to take advantage of this and make sure that you have a shopfront and retail space that is going to attract people’s attention for all of the right reasons. That is why the retail design that you choose plays a big part. If you have a physical retail store, rather than an online one, then it is so important to make sure that you take some time to look at what you have to sell, in order to make it look good and to really maximize sales conversions. 

If you aren’t sure what you can do to improve your retail space, to really draw customers in, and give retail a much-needed boost, then here are some design insights that could help. 

Create an immersive experience for shoppers

A great retail space is not just about having pristine displays and good-looking visual merchandising. It is all about using the space that you have to create an immersive experience for your shoppers. When you are planning your space, think about what the space could be used for, for something a little different. What is the overall experience that you would want your shoppers to have? If you want them to leave happy and feeling good, then what could you do to help that? Many beauty brands, such as Lush and Aesop , offer immersive shopping experiences in their stores, with testing, displays, and even some beauty treatments and mini-salons in store. 

Of course, what you’re able to do will depend on the kind of business that you have, but thinking outside the box with your design, and overall experience in-store, can make a big difference. 

Create your layout considering the store’s flow of traffic

When you are designing your retail space, then it is natural to think about putting the best sellers upfront in the store or use the most enticing displays first. In order to do this, you have to think about what route people take around the store. Is this something that you can assess, or perhaps you will create the route for them with your store layout? The good news about this is that there is a lot of research into this topic by retail experts. In many cases, the flow of traffic goes along with the vehicular flow of where you live, so this could definitely be something to consider with your layout. 

Make it a safe and secure place to be

When you have a retail space, you need to think about keeping customers safe. If you have broken concrete in the car park or out the front of the store, then this can be hazardous and something that is best to avoid. You can learn more about concrete repair and making sure that it is safe, as well as look at other aspects of your store. A door that is automatic, rather than one that needs to be opened, can help to make your store safe and accessible, as well as considerations like the temperature to make it a comfortable place to be. If someone does have a bad experience with something that is unsafe, then not only can it be costly to you, but it can also be something that impacts your reputation. 

Add breaks into the store layout

Having a range of the same kinds of fixtures or stands can be repetitive, and mean that some shoppers skip over certain items. When it all looks the same, it is going to be hard for consumers to be able to find something that they are interested in, especially if they are just there to browse. Long and uninterrupted aisles can lead to the merchandise being skipped, which isn’t going to be a good thing for your business . 

One recommendation to counter this is to create some real visual breaks in and amongst the aisles. These breaks could be signage, displays, or something else to break up the clothing (or whatever items your store sells). You can see that even grocery stores take this approach, with a lot of large signage and attention-grabbing details found at the ends of the aisles. You could also think about making the break in the merchandise be something interactive like a tablet with an online category that people can browse from, or something fun with selfies and filters (again, depending on the kind of retail business that you have). 

Create a focal point for all of your displays

It can be quite tempting to bring some attention to other things that are going on in-store, and showcase all that you have to offer. However, a tried-and-tested way of doing things is to have a focal point for your displays, ideally at eye level, to create an effective way to draw people’s attention in. From window displays to middle of the floor signage, shelving, or rails, having a focal point can be a really important thing for your sales and conversions. 

With a focal point, the displays that you have are going to have a much bigger chance to hook the attention of the shoppers. When they are hooked, then they are going to quite naturally see what else there is to see around the focal point. It really does help. 

If you have a retail store then you will know just how tough it can be to get customers through the door, let alone get them to part with their money. When you think carefully about your retail space, with the design, safety, and layout, it can make a difference to the success of your store.

Create the shopper experience with sustainability in mind

Today’s shoppers are more eco-conscious or shop with sustainability in mind. Bring to the forefront any sustainable business strategies you employ; for example, if you are in a LEED building make sure to provide signage demonstrating that, as well as, any energy savings measures you are taking. Provide eco-friendly packaging. Inform customers of your sustainable vendors. Be mindful of your shopper’s expectations around sustainability and use their feedback to improve on your green business practices.

What changes do you think you will start to make? It would be interesting to hear your thoughts.

A Greener Supply Chain with Micro Fulfillment

By Julie Starr • May 23, 2025
A sustainable supply chain is made possible with some major shifts and minor changes that you may not consider at first. One of these is micro fulfillment, where strategically placed warehouses provide streamlined services to a smaller area. So, what are some of the benefits of changing your logistics? From consolidated deliveries to minimal eco-impact, here are a few. Closer Customer Proximity There are a few ways that micro fulfillment centers are revolutionizing the courier industry. Reduced emissions, local sourcing, and support for urban stability are just three of the many examples. Compact logistics are quickly becoming a solution for businesses that want to make a difference, and through small warehouse space for rent , as and when needed, environmental footprints are diminishing as companies deliver services and goods to a smaller customer area. Consolidated Delivery Options Efficiency is everything in business, but it is even more critical when a company is looking to reduce the environmental impact of its operations. Through a micro-fulfillment system, a business is able to reduce the overall number of trips that a courier has to make. With consolidated deliveries concentrated in a smaller geographic area, there are many more options available that contribute to a lower impact, including efficient use of fuel for lower emissions. A Greener Supply Chain with Route Efficiency A company can make many changes when becoming the green link in the supply chain for a healthier logistical operation. However, an average home delivery round for a standard courier service is 50 miles, with 0.42 miles between each drop-off, producing 181g of carbon each. Focusing on a smaller area through micro fulfillment reduce the associated issues with couriers: Being closer to delivery routes reduces the need for extra shipping options. Electric delivery vehicles can be used as there is no need to recharge them. Knowledge of the area helps with routes as drivers can avoid congested areas. Lower Environmental Impact Of course, all efforts to go green and become more sustainable through logistics are to reduce the environmental impact that a business has on the area. Micro fulfillment contributes to this in a way that a wider operation cannot. Shorter routes and enhanced inventory management actively reduce waste. There is also much less energy used, as micro fulfillment centers are designed to be energy-efficient, and EVs and less transport contribute to emission reduction. Enhanced Socioeconomic Benefits There is also a social and economic impact of a business. An enhanced and more sustainable business using local micro fulfillment centers instantly creates more jobs, helping to prop up the local economy. Of course, the efficiency of this type of logistical operation also results in happier customers, increasing the chance of repeat business. From a business perspective, you demonstrate a commitment to ongoing sustainability , appealing to eco-conscious customers. Summary Being closer to customers for delivery helps create a greener supply chain when used with micro fulfillment centers. Local couriers and employees also know the area and can avoid congested areas for streamlined operations. However, there are also social and economic benefits such as job creation, improved customer experiences, and enhanced brand reputation.

Sustainability in Ecommerce: 3 Ways to Make Progress Where It Matters

By Julie Starr • May 21, 2025
Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have—it's essential. That’s true across every industry, and ecommerce is no exception. But let’s be honest: building a more sustainable ecommerce business isn’t always straightforward. From packaging to supply chains to last-mile delivery, the challenges are real—and often feel like they’re outside your control. But here’s the good news: sustainable ecommerce is absolutely possible. And it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Small, strategic shifts can make a meaningful difference—not just for the planet, but for your customers and your brand’s longevity. Here are three actionable ways you can move the needle toward a more environmentally responsible ecommerce business. Choose Sustainable Packaging That Works for People and Planet Packaging is often one of the most visible and wasteful—aspects of ecommerce. From oversized boxes to plastic fillers, the impact adds up fast. But it doesn’t have to. Thoughtful, sustainable packaging design can dramatically reduce your environmental footprint. Start by right-sizing your shipments to reduce excess material and emissions. Opt for recycled, recyclable, or compostable materials that align with circular economy principles. Better yet, one option is to design custom boxes with sustainable materials, for example. These custom packaging solutions eliminate unnecessary layers while enhancing your brand’s presentation. These aren’t just more sustainable choices, they’re smarter ones. Today’s customers care about where materials come from, and where they end up. Your packaging can reflect your commitment to both. Partner with Purpose: Choose Sustainable Suppliers Your supply chain is an extension of your brand and one of the most powerful levers you have to reduce your environmental impact. You could end up using more than a few suppliers when you’re running an ecommerce company . It’s always worth making sure these are as sustainable as possible . While you may not control every aspect of your suppliers’ operations, you do control who you choose to work with. Prioritize suppliers who share your commitment to sustainability. Look for transparency in sourcing, third-party certifications, and a clear track record of environmental and ethical practices. Ask the right questions: Are their materials responsibly sourced? Do they minimize waste and emissions? How do they treat their workforce? Choosing partners who align with your values not only improves the sustainability of your products—it strengthens your brand’s integrity and resilience. When your supply chain reflects your mission, it creates trust and long-term value across your business. Lead with Impact: Promote Environmental Awareness Sustainability doesn’t stop at your supply chain. As an ecommerce business, you have a unique platform to elevate environmental causes and inspire meaningful change within and beyond your operations. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of highlighting and supporting various sustainable initiatives and causes around the world. One powerful way to do this is by supporting organizations and initiatives that align with your values. Whether it’s donating a portion of your profits, partnering with mission-driven nonprofits, or amplifying important causes across your website and social channels, your advocacy matters. By shining a light on solutions and inviting your customers to participate, you strengthen your brand’s purpose and build a community rooted in shared responsibility. This isn’t just good for the planet; it’s good for business. Sustainable ecommerce is entirely possible. With the right mindset and a few strategic shifts, your business can lead with integrity, reduce its footprint, and become part of a much-needed transformation in the digital economy.