Retail Focus December 2018

retail focus

december 2018 : £6.75 #105

DECEMBER 2018/issue 105

retail focus WWW.RETAIL-FOCUS.CO.UK

Christmas Windows 2018 : Levi’s Times Square : Selfridges Designer Street Room : Retail 2019 Trends & Predictions : Shopping Centres : VM Awards Review : In & Around Bond Street : Focus on Graphics & Wall Decals : Q&A with Nathan Hicks, T.M.Lewin

Raising the (soap) bar Claus Porto opens Stateside

Christmas Windows 2018 : Levi’s Times Square : Selfridges Designer Street Room : Shopping Centres : Retail 2019 Trends & Predictions : VM Awards Review : In & Around Bond Street : Focus on Graphics & Decals : Q&A with Nathan Hicks, T.M.Lewin

mannequins | creative | shop fit | hangers | retail

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H.O.L. are a London based leading provider of Retail Design, Shop Fitting and Retailer Supplies. We provide a creative and effective retail display environment to engage your customers and enhance your brand.

INTRODUCING OUR NEW COLLECTION FARRINGDON LAUNCHED AT THE VM & DISPLAY SHOW We worked with one of the UK’s leading body language experts to create a range of mannequins that convey a contemporary attitude. The collection includes male, female, urban and plus size adults along with playful children.

We invite you to book an appointment to view the full Farringdon collection at our London showroom

Find out more: Visit our NEW website at www.hol-group.com

Photo Credit: SLVHCS ‘Project Legacy’, New Orleans, USA © Sean Airhart/NBBJ

contents

CONTENTS Raising the (soap) bar

32-33

In the Nolita neighbourhood of Manhattan in New York City, nestled among the designer jewellery shops, indie boutiques and cosy coffee shops, sits Claus Porto’s first international store, designed by Tacklebox Architecture.

42 Shopping Centres

38

Retail 2019: Trends & Predictions

7

Leader

8

Diary

11-16 News 18-22 W indow shopping

& Display 49 VM Awards Review

29-36 Project Focus

Levi’s Times Square : Claus Porto : Designer Street Room, Selfridges

47

Opinion Formats of retail need to be re-imagined within new models of retailing, claims Nathan Watts, creative director at FITCH.

Festive window displays from around the globe.

25 27

Centre Stage Karl McKeever The physical store is the perfect opportunity for retailers to add some seasonal sparkle, bringing Christmas into glorious 3D life for shoppers, claims Karl this month.

www.retail-focus.co.uk

57

In & Around...

Bond Street. With a new town square and £50m invested in brand openings and store refurbishments, the street maintains its status as a world-class luxury shopping destination.

68

Focus on: Graphics & Wall Decals

58-66 Products Products and services for the retail industry.

74

Q&A With more than 30 years experience in VM, Nathan Hicks discusses his new role as head of visual communication at T.M.Lewin

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leader

welcome December ‘18

There’s no denying that 2018 has been a particularly tumultuous year for retail. The record-high rate of store closures in 2017 continued into this year, with Laura Ashley the latest chain to announce store closures amid a ‘challenging environment’ in the UK. It is certainly a difficult time for the high street, but it is not dead. It is evolving.

Over the last 12 months we have covered numerous innovative store concepts - both in the UK and overseas - that have been created to meet the needs and expectations of today’s connected consumer. From Nike’s first Nike Live destination in LA, which combines digital features with a unique physical environment, to Gentle Monster’s gallery-like retail space that immerses visitors in a total sensory experience. These are the stores leading the way.

And so, as 2018 draws to a close, we look ahead to the trends and opportunities likely to impact the retail industry in 2019 and beyond. Find out what six industry experts had to say in our end of year article on pages 38-40.

Also in this issue, we round up some of this year’s most fun and festive window schemes from around the globe (pages 18-22), and celebrate the teams behind the displays in our VM & Display Awards review (pages 49-50).

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a successful new year.

Gemma Balmford Editor

Managing Editor

Editor

Gemma Balmford

Lyndsey Dennis

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Get more from Retail Focus online!

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Publisher

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diary

DIARY

RetailEXPO Olympia London 1-2 May 2019 Retail Design Expo, Retail Business Technology Expo and Retail Digital Signage Expo will unify under one name for 2019 - RetailEXPO. The new format will bring together more than 15,000 retailers, tech exhibitors and retail design businesses.

The move to unify the three retail trade shows from Reed Exhibitions was based on extensive independent research, talking to more than 150 senior retailers and brands.

The findings revealed greater need for collaboration amongst retail teams, with tech, marketing and design working more closely together to deliver enhanced customer experience and the emergence of customer-specific teams and roles.

TheRetailExpo

www.retail-expo.com

Surface Design Show FUTR Creative Retail Awards Business Design Centre, London Business Design Centre, London Proud Embankment, London 5-7 February 2019 24-25 April 2019 6 June 2019 Surface Design Show will showcase the best in interior and exterior surface materials. The 2019 show will have a special focus on two areas - the workplace and the public realm. Visitors will also be able to explore more than 150 exhibitor stands, enjoy a packed programme of talks, Opening Night Live Debate and the famous PechaKucha evening. surfacethinking

www.surfacedesignshow.com

8

FUTR returns to London for its fourth edition in April at its new venue, the Business Design Centre. Preparing for the biggest summit to date, FUTR will once again host a curated programme of insightful conference sessions, immersive showcases and innovative exhibitors and start-ups to ensure your business is prepared for the future of retail, marketing and commerce.

FUTRGroup

www.futr.today

The Creative Retail Awards recognise and reward innovation and excellence in retail design. Moving away from the traditional awards ceremony, the Creative Retail Awards offer a night full of exuberance. Organised by the Shop & Display Equipment Association (SDEA) and Retail Focus Magazine, the awards span a number of disciplines. retailfocus www.creativeretailawards.com

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news

NEWS

Fortnum & Mason opens new store, bar and restaurant at The Royal Exchange Fortnum & Mason has opened a new store, bar and restaurant within The Royal Exchange in London, designed by Universal Design Studio. Situated in the centre of The Royal Exchange’s internal courtyard, The Fortnum’s Bar & Restaurant has transfomed the iconic London landmark into a contemporary dining destination. The bar is respectful of the surrounding neoclassical architecture, proportioned to sit harmoniously within the vast internal atrium while creating a sense of intimacy.

The 213 sq m retail store is tucked away within the historic internal archways, and features bespoke chandeliers by Studio Roso, crafted from thousands of silver ‘shells’ taken from Fortnum & Mason teaspoons. Custom hand-blown glass lights and vases

by Michael Ruh Studio, in collaboration with Universal, decorate the bar and restaurant throughout.

The central bar seats up to 90 diners and offers a modern take on the Fortnum & Mason signature aesthetic, with a textured material palette of nickel, marble, Eau de Nil leather and glazed ceramics to complement the hues of the building’s dominent material — Portland stone.

Skopes unveils new concept at Westfield London On the ground floor of Westfield London, nestled between Waterstones and House of Samsonite sits the new 217 sq m Skopes store, designed by Dalziel & Pow. The heritage suiting brand was established 70 years ago in the heart of the Leeds textile industry and is now refreshing its identity and store concept to appeal to a new generation of consumer.

The new store aesthetic is clean and approachable yet playful, with design cues taken from the manufacturing floor and foreman’s offices in a 1960s Leeds factory.

Named ‘The Suit Lookbook’, the store is designed with six distinct zones that correlate with an occasion or look, such as ‘dressed down friday’ and ‘commuting in style’.

Bringing the looks to life are digital screens playing campaign content, as well as bespoke coloured mannequins from the HOL Group, floor-to-ceiling visuals and motion-censored screens on the perimeter walls.

Instead of cash desks, the store features a cutting table-inspired service

desk, while staff are equipped with tablets to take payments, for a more flexible and personal service experience.

The space also incorporates a lounge area complete with a fully stocked fridge.

The fitting rooms are wallpapered with Skopes’ signature brand pattern and each cubicle is fitted with a lighting control system from Ansorg that can create six different light scenarios.

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Flash news to go here

New redesign unveiled for Vitra showroom at Heal’s Twelve months after opening, Vitra has redesigned its largest dedicated consumer retail area at Heal’s on Tottenham Court Road, London. The newly reimagined space acts as both a retail touchpoint and also a source of inspiration for customers, featuring new launches, iconic pieces, sensory elements and dedicated spaces for children and families.

The Vitra collection at Heal’s has been designed to offer inspirational home settings, focusing specifically on the living and dining areas of the home. The concession on the first floor aims to not only be a shopping destination, but also a place to explore the design story that has made Vitra one of the most important brands in design.

Developed by Vitra’s specialist in-house retail design team, the new space is clearly zoned to create two distinct areas. One half features a fresh green hue, creating a calming interior that houses inspirational room sets and product displays. The other half of the space

hosts consultation zones and retail touch points, such as the Accessories Store and the Lounge Chair Atelier. The latter allows customers to discover the story behind this icon of modern design, from the choice of materials to the longevity and sustainability of the design. Offering an overview of all shell, base and leather options available, it allows the visitor to carefully select their preferred choice.

Visitors are immersed in the Vitra story,

Costa Coffee unveils new store format Costa Coffee has launched a new store format in a bid to improve the in-store customer experience.

Global marketing at Costa Coffee took on the responsibility of redefining the store environment.

The team had the authority and the freedom to guide the redesign of the physical space and customer experience, putting the brand at the heart of all decisions.

Costa Coffee woked alongside multidisciplinary branding, interiors and architecture consultancy, Edge to create a truer realisation of the Costa Coffee brand with a new look and feel of its outlets nationwide. The brief for Edge started with Costa Coffee’s brand purpose, ‘To inspire the world to love great coffee’. Other pillars of the Costa Coffee brand, which were to underpin and guide the redesign were Costa Coffee’s passion about handcrafting coffee, bringing new coffee experiences to its customers and deepening their understanding and appreciation of coffee.

The redesign by Edge was introduced at nine pilot sites in three iterative phases, with crucial learning rolled into each subsequent site, and over the next two years it will be introduced in 1,000 Costa Coffee stores in the UK.

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Photography: Gareth Gardner

where a short film explains the brand’s history. The immersive experience is reinforced with sounds from the limitededition Eames Radio, paired with wireless speakers from Revo.

As well as the adjusted room sets, Vitra has included a dedicated children’s area.

Playful decoration and colouring areas make it a happy place for children to be entertained while parents can enjoy the rest of the showroom.

news

H&M Hammersmith reopens with new interior H&M has reopened its Hammersmith store at Kings Mall shopping centre. The 2,300 sq m store has been given a complete makeover, reopening with a brand new interior look and feel. The store contains a number of new services, including a Repair and Remake station, which encourages customers to keep garments for longer by mending H&M clothes without charge for H&M Club customers. The service station also offers embroidery personalisation, with customers able to personalise any suitable garment from just £3. H&M Hammersmith also contains a permanent florist shop-in-shop offering season bouquets.

The store has been designed to make shopping in-store an inspirational experience for H&M customers in Hammersmith. The interior creates a warm

and welcoming atmosphere, with flagstone flooring and a host of live trees and plants creating a covered courtyard feel.

The three floors of the store are connected by a striking wrought iron staircase, and digital screens outside of the generously sized fitting rooms show images of customers wearing their recent purchases shared using the #HMxME hashtag on Instagram.

H&M Hammersmith is the first store in the UK to introduce self checkouts in addition to regular till points, and customers will also be able to place new online orders or collect an existing order from the in-store service desk.

As well as clothing, the store also features H&M Home products, as well as a garment recycling point.

Sybarite and GlobalData launch report on department stores ‘The Sybarite Report 2018: The Future of the Luxury Department Store, transcendent retail and the role of design’ has been commissioned by Sybarite architects and produced in partnership with leading analyst GlobalData.

The report includes a ranking of the world’s most successful luxury department stores by sales per sq ft in 2017, alongside market forecasts, key retail trends and expert commentary and sets out to identify the most unique and successful luxury department stores in the world, exploring the challenges and opportunities these stores face in providing a shopping experience fit for the 21st century.

Of the top five retailers, three are in London, including Harrods, which is number one in the world by sales per

sq ft, and this is largely thought to be due to the spike in international visitors drawn to London. ‘We commissioned the report to better understand the role of store design in creating truly transcendental retail experiences to help luxury department stores continue to survive and thrive. All the top performers in The Sybarite Report 2018 have found innovative ways to become true destinations, whether that’s through spatial design, spectacular retail theatre, cultural events and collaborations, a tight edit of product or luxury services as well as boasting globally recognised, iconic architecture,’ says Simon Mitchell, co-founder of Sybarite.

In brief...

• Luxury designer clothes and accessories retailer, Designer Exchange has opened on King’s Road in London.

Designer Exchange extends the lifespan of highly sought-after clothing, shoes and accessories from high-end brands including Chanel, Hermes, Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci and Louis Vuitton.

• H&M will open a new H&M HOME Concept Store in central London in Spring 2019 at 208 Regent Street. The new H&M HOME Concept Store will span approximately 700 sq m across two floors and offer the brand’s full assortment, the newly launched range of furniture, lighting and the Classic Collection.

• Green Room has appointed Martyn Palmer to head its digital experience strategy and growth. Based in Birmingham at Green Room’s UK headquarters, Palmer will lead the group’s architecture, strategic development and integration of digital solutions designed to place the customer at the heart of their client’s omni-channel experience.

• Sainsbury’s has unveiled its latest store, a 6,224 sq m experience supermarket located in the recently regenerated Selly Oak Shopping Park.

Alongside food, general merchandise and fashion, Selly Oak also includes some Sainsbury’s experiments, including the first eat-in Food Market.

To view the full report, visit: www.sybarite.com/report

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news

Well Pharmacy creates pharmacy of the future Well Pharmacy has launched a new store concept in the retail pharmacy sector.

The reinvented store layout and modern new concept by YourStudio is strategically designed around the customers’ needs.

The team has collaboratively reimagined the typical floor plate and re-focussed from a product and service offer layout with overwhelming communication to a streamlined customer experience, bringing the dispensary — Well’s most popular store service — to the front of the store, demystifying the typical back-ofhouse process area and making it visible in the shopfront.

The dispensary has a newly developed ‘Essential Well flow’ for the work stations to allow each team member to perform their key role to the best of their ability, in the optimum location in the store.

Workstations have been designed around the specific tasks each member needs to perform, allowing for a more streamlined and efficient dispensing of perceptions.

Other key features instore include a consultation area, prescription collection points, and exterior 24-hour vending machine — the latter is a first for the UK pharmaceutical sector.

The concept design uses an array

of modern, functional and textured materials, creating an inviting, comfortable environment reflective of the brand’s core values while adding acoustic benefits and delivering a signature and recognisable Well pharmacy environments that customers will know from brand to branch.

The colour palette uses white timber, a distinct navy blue timber for the service counters as well as pops of green accents throughout the store.

The shopfront now provides clear views into the store and a clear pathway to the human-led service points as well as now having minimal to no visual noise.

Coventry Building Society unveils branch redesign Coventry Building Society has launched a branch redesign programme, which will see the Society invest significantly in its network over the next five years. The Society is creating a more spacious, relaxed and friendly feel to its branches. The human touch is at the heart of the new look, with greater interaction between employees and members one of the main objectives.

The design, created in collaboration with Allen International (part of the Accenture Group), has been rolled out in seven of its branches, including Leicester city centre and Birmingham’s Corporation Street, with other branches to follow in the coming months and years ahead.

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‘Whilst other banks and building societies are closing branches at an alarming rate, we’re investing heavily in our network. Our multimillion-pound investment will ensure that we continue to meet the needs of our members and the local communities in which we serve,’ says Mark Parsons, Coventry Building Society’s chief executive officer. ‘However, rest assured, our focus for our 70-strong network will continue to be people, with technology there to help provide the human touch, not replace it. Branches matter to savers, and we want to encourage more people to save more for their futures by continuing to offer great value over the long term.’

Each year, almost 120,000 people of working age are diagnosed with cancer in the UK, and with survival rates improving and people retiring later, this figure is set to rise. This is why Macmillan has developed workplace training, guidance and resources to support HR and Line Managers with managing cancer in the workplace.

For people with cancer, staying in or returning to work can be hugely positive. However, it can be difficult to know how to support someone with cancer, as there are a number of challenges they may face.

In the workplace, reasonable adjustments are often needed to help deal with the side effects of cancer and its treatment. Fatigue, pain and depression are some of the common side effects, so making reasonable adjustments such as flexible working and time off to attend medical appointments can make a big difference to someone affected by cancer. In addition as cancer is classed as a disability under the Equality Act or Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), employers are required to make reasonable adjustments if the location, working arrangements or a lack of extra support (auxiliary aids) puts someone with cancer at a substantial disadvantage.

It is important to remember that each person may require different support. So how can businesses equip HR professionals and line managers to provide the best individual support for staff they manage, while adhering to organisational policies?

individual who has been diagnosed with cancer.

Initiating conversations and keeping communication channels open are key steps in gaining an understanding of the individual needs and support required in the work place. It’s also important to discuss arrangements for keeping in touch with your employee before their absence, and to maintain appropriate contact with your employee during periods of sick leave.

Macmillan at Work Training or consultancy can help organisations prepare their staff to manage the impact of long term conditions. Macmillan at Work is designed to help workplaces support employees with a cancer diagnosis, or those caring for someone with cancer.

To find out about the expert training, guidance and resources Macmillan provides, visit macmillan.org.uk/atwork You can also email the team at workandcancer@macmillan.org.uk or call 020 7840 4725.

Often one of the biggest concerns can be starting the initial conversation with the Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). MAC15903_2017_V2

MAC15903 Employee Benefits ad_V2_297x210mm.indd 3

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international news

international

NEWS Nike opens House of Innovation 000 in New York

Photography by James Florio; courtesy Denver Art Museum

Nike has opened the doors to its 6,317 sq m, six storey House of Innovation 000 in New York City on the corner of Fifth Avenue and 52nd Street. Inside, the promise of living retail comes to life. On each floor, groundbreaking features offer spaces and experiences that are both personal and responsive. Throughout, consumers can enjoy services that are deeply customisable and effortlessly smart and seamless. The store recalls the immersion that many locals remember from their first visit to New York’s original Niketown when it opened its doors more than 20 years ago, leading to, as Nike Direct president Heidi O’Neill calls it, an ‘only here’ Nike experience.

The Denver Art Museum welcomes Dior exhibition Visitors to The Denver Museum in Colorado can view 70 years of haute couture from the House of Dior until 3 March 2019. ‘Dior: From Paris to the World’ surveys more than 70 years of the House of Dior’s enduring legacy and its global influence. A selection of more than 200 haute couture dresses, as well as accessories, photographs, original sketches, runway videos and other archival material trace the history of the iconic haute couture fashion house.

Dior: From Paris to the World also profiles its founder, Christian Dior, and subsequent artistic directors who have carried Dior’s vision into the 21st century.

The exhibition will also highlight North and South American patrons’ vital role in helping establish the House of Dior’s global presence. Organised by the museum and curated by Florence Müller, the DAM’s Avenir Foundation curator of Textile Art and Fashion, the exhibition has been designed by Shohei Shigematsu, OMA partner and director of the global firm’s New York office. The more than 70-year Dior retrospective offers a new vision on the fashion house’s legacy following the 2017 - 2018 Paris exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs.

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Sybarite designs Rendez-Vous concept store for SKP Xi’an Following the successful launch of the Rendez-Vous concept store at SKP Beijing, Sybarite has created a new two-storey store-within-a-store and popular social and cultural hub for SKP in Xi’an.

The design-led luxury concept store on the 9th and 10th floors of SKP Xi’an includes a curated bookshop filled with international books on art, culture and food, an artisanal cheese store, a TWG tea room and a restaurant, Without Borders.

The two Rendez-Vous floors are linked by a grand staircase that has been designed to feel welcoming, incorporating intimate areas within it to read as well as delicate planting to create an area of calm. A dramatic cluster of lights designed by Sybarite creates a sculptural installation within the centre of the staircase.

visual merchandising

Macy's

Photography: Bill Waldorf

festive window displays from around the globe

Astronaut Sunny the Snowpal has taken over the Macy's Broadway windows for Christmas. Entitled 'Believe in the Wonder of Giving', the six enchanted windows share a tale of friendship, family, adventure, and teamwork as Sunny works to save Christmas with the help of her friends. A custom interactive video game lets guests zoom Sunny through snowflakes in pursuit of Santa's sleigh, while LED backdrops and animated characters and scenery bring energy to the holiday scenes.

'The windows are set in space, but the gifts of friendship and family are universal. We hope guests of all ages will find holiday joy reflected in our windows,' says Macy's national director of window presentation, Roya Sullivan.

Macy's collaborated with Standard Transmission Production on the build of the scheme.

Bergdorf Goodman

Photography: Ricky Zehavi Photography

Bergdorf Goodman's holiday windows present a dreamlike world filled with gilded treats, sugary inventions and luscious sweets. The windows along Fifth Avenue in New York City include a gingerbread cuckoo clock, a liquorice carousel and peppermint pandemonium.

'This year our artistic team became faux-pastry chefs, dishing up a wall-to-wall profusion of sculpted confections. Everything candied, iced and lavish,' says David Hoey, senior director of visual presentation at Bergdorf Goodman.

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visual merchandising See more festive window schemes at

www.retail-focus.co.uk/vm

Liberty London

Tiffany & Co Tiffany & Co's 2018 holiday windows at the Fifth Avenue flagship store in New York City feature a series of playful scenarios that pay homage to Gene Moore's imaginative displays from the 1960s, with an unexpected twist. At the heart of this year's theme, 'The Holidays Made by Tiffany', is Tiffany's holiday hero, a chrome articulated drawing figure first seen in Moore's 1960s windows.

In one scene, the holiday hero puts the finishing touches on a robot made of Tiffany Blue Boxes. In another, a handmade Tiffany Blue stereo player fills the space and a white porcelain mouse, in contrasting scale, appears to be listening to a holiday mixtape on tiny headphones.

Photography: Ricky Zehavi

The animals that are intricately carved into the panels and pillars of the iconic Liberty London building come to life through print, verse and display in 'The Liberty Christmas Story'. Liberty fabric print designer, Ffion Griffith and emerging poet, Gabrielle Djanogly worked closely together to create the enchanted world of the yule-tide creatures.

The Liberty animals spring into action in the store’s 10 Great Marlborough Street windows. The black and white 2D animals are displayed against richly decorated home-scenes surrounded by an assortment of gifts. Cheeky monkeys are seen swinging from the ceiling, guffawing elephants sit at the head of dinner tables and lions relax by the fireside.

Meanwhile, the store’s central atrium features a dramatic levitating hot air balloon that is visible from each balcony. Adorned in the Christmas print, the 2D animals scurry around the store, filling the balloon’s basket with gifts.

Printemps The run of windows at Paris department store Printemps reveal the magical worlds of Father Christmas. The narrative once again features Jules and Violette, with new characters designed and produced in collaboration with partner brands.

Dressed up as real detectives and embarking on adventures across magical worlds, the two intrepid characters venture out in search of Father Christmas, who has gone missing.

The windows feature a series of magical scenes: 'The Frosted Valley' with the silver bears of Canada Goose, 'The Golden Dunes' of UGG with the help of the booted sheep, 'The Prairie of the Four Winds' with the funny hairy greyhounds of Dyson, and 'The Land of Sweet Delights' with the French cows of Häagen-Dazs.

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Saks Fifth Avenue The Theater of Dreams festive window scheme and light show at Saks Fifth Avenue is an ode to the grandeur of the Broadway stage. The windows, presented by Mastercard, bring to life an imaginary shopper's visit to the theatre, where she dreams of Saks Fifth Avenue. Each display depicts a different scene from the shopper's dream, integrating real-life props with digital screens. In one window the shopper visits the Fifth Avenue Club, while in another she goes in search of the perfect shoe. The festive windows were unveiled with a fantastical performance by 124 Broadway dancers on Fifth Avenue, New York City.

Images courtesy of BFA for Saks Fifth Avenue

visual merchandising

Fortnum & Mason Fortnum & Mason's 'Masters of Merry' campaign celebrates how the brand has mastered the art of merriment and the magic of Christmas year on year, throughout its long history. This year, the windows capture key festive motifs all with moving elements and with food and drink as the focus.

In one window, a turkey — complete with paper hat — bursts out from a giant cracker while its glittering trimmings, sprouts and all, orbit around the bird.

In another window, a Christmas tree is made entirely out of champagne glasses with twinkling lights, depicting bubbly, cascading down and around.

Elsewhere, a majestic metallic lobster is revealed from under a huge cloche, surrounded by gold prawns standing to attention, while a herd of mince pies with flapping wings pull a sleigh, led by a pie with red, shiny cherries on top nodding to Rudolph.

John Lewis The John Lewis Christmas advertising campaign 2018 tells the story of how the gift of a piano inspired and influenced the course of Elton John's life. The story begins in present day and works backwards chronologically through Elton’s life, right until the moment he received the special gift of his grandmother’s piano. The campaign includes an experiential space at the Oxford Street store and a musical light show that is projected from the Oxford Street shop windows every 30 minutes from 4pm.

A piano spans the length of the windows to reference Elton John’s piano in the ad. The scheme was produced in collaboration with Harlequin Design.

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genesis-display.com GENESIS ad for retail focus 01-18.indd 1

19.12.17 10:33

Photography: Michael Franke

visual merchandising

See more festive window schemes at

www.retail-focus.co.uk/vm

Mulberry The Mulberry Lights festive campaign includes a series of illuminating interactive experiences that celebrate how light, colour, shapes and people come together to create a modern British Christmas. The windows, created in collaboration with ACIERTA, integrate neon lights with resin blocks, and glossy tiles on the walls. Cables from the lighting are also used as part of the design.

de Bijenkorf

Photography: Courtesy of de Bijenkorf

'Make Classic Fantastic' is the theme for the 2018 Christmas campaign at de Bijenkorf in The Netherlands. The shop windows come to life via augmented reality with Bobbie de Beer playing the leading role. Each interactive window tells a story, from Bobbie making his own perfume in a laboratory to decorating a Christmas tree. Visitors can also press a button to open a book and listen to music as part of the window scheme. Genesis supplied its Icon female mannequins for the scheme.

Harrods Part of the Fantastica store-wide festive season celebration, the Harrods windows follow a tableau of familiar festive rituals over a 24-hour period, from unwrapping gifts and the Queen's speech, to a Christmas feast and a party. 'We wanted a concept that was relatable and recognised globally,' says Alex Wells-Greco, creative visual director at Harrods.

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c o l l e c t i o n 111 m a d e m o i s e l l e e l eg an t s i m pl i c i t y w i t h a t o uc h of p oet r y

CAMELEON C O M P O N ­E N T M A K E - U P S Y S T E M PATENTED

CENTRE STAGE pop & display

Standout POP displays from around the globe Bourjois The Yard Creative has designed the next generation of merchandising for the Bourjois Lifestyle Store at Dubai Mall beauty hall. The project team, constructed of interior and graphic designers, set about understanding the brief and requirements for the Dubai Mall along with the constraints of the double-sided gondola and wall pillar. The aim of the design was to elevate the Bourjois brand within the mall and give it the premium experience whilst creating maximum standout by leveraging the Parisian credentials.

The retail design of the gondola took learnings from the wider Bourjois brand repositioning project and included fixture design, visual merchandising and communication. The bright and playful brand execution stands out in the beauty hall, and the design also helps to move the brand forward and more in line with the new brand position while also making the most of current marketing communications.

www.theyardcreative.com

L’Oreal Kesslers rolled out L’Oréal’s ‘Power of Fragrance’ animation in Boots stores for Christmas. This year’s theme was strongly influenced by the Christmas tree motif and the sovereign seasonal colours of red and gold. The critical element of the design was to showcase nine key L’Oréal fragrances from the company’s family of scents, including Giorgio Armani, Yves-Saint-Laurent and Lancôme, as well as communicating the ‘Christmas wrapped up in three easy steps’ messaging.

Kesslers’ brief was to ensure that this freestanding display was prominent and eyecatching but also sat well within the Boots store environment. It makes the special offer really clear, with a hero gift box area showing the finished product and fun arrangement of the full selection of free-gift miniatures on individually made posts.

Using red glitter and gold to create the Christmas tree shape adds shimmer to the unit and attracts shoppers, while its functional aspects, such as a storage drawer and integrated wrapping platform, means that it is an operational area for staff to use.

www.kesslers.com

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column

Karl McKeever

Holidays are coming Once again we’ve had the highly anticipated unveiling of retailers’ Christmas adverts, with the usual discussion over ‘who did it best’.

It’s become a seasonal event in its own right. From Elton John Lewis telling us that ‘some gifts are more than just a gift’ to Sainsbury’s tugging on the heartstrings with a nativity-themed ad. The ever-popular Kevin the Carrot is back for Aldi, while Iceland’s banned ‘political’ advert has gone viral, with its serious palm oil message resonating with thousands on social media.

So far so business as usual. But of the millions spent on these adverts, how many retailers are actually cashing in on their investment, driving carry-through of the campaigns in-store and — crucially — inspiring shoppers to purchase?

During the past few weeks I’ve made even more of a point of stopping into stores on my business travel, paying close attention to how — and indeed if — Christmas campaigns are translated in-store. And the harsh reality is that not many retailers do this particularly well.

But (as it’s Christmas), let’s start with the positives. Aldi has certainly delivered with this year’s Kevin the Carrot campaign — in and out of store. Arguably, it’s the only one that’s achieving anything close to complete consistency across all channels, using novel humour to highlight brand values in a fun festive way, all relating directly back to its theme of ‘fairytale Christmas’. Good stuff, Aldi.

Asda deserves a nod, too. There’s nothing too groundbreaking with its simple message of ‘bring Christmas home’, but in terms of segueing its campaign seamlessly in-store, it’s streets ahead of many of its competitors. The campaign is prominent and clear across its stores, effortlessly appealing to its target audience. Elsewhere, Debenhams has also done a good job of bringing its campaign to life, albeit while being more understated and less talked about than some of its competitors.

Iceland has been the big surprise of the season. The retailer may now have a TV presence, albeit with a different execution, but it’s the retailer’s cause-led Christmas campaign that has found large-scale support, especially on social media, with environmentally conscious consumers sharing its sad tale of the Rang-tan. Despite having zero television presence, the retailer has swiftly added some in-store Karl McKeever is founder and managing director of visual merchandising and brand delivery consultancy Visual Thinking.

Email Karl at karl@retail-focus.co.uk karlmckeever www.visualthinking.co.uk

integration, with Rang-tan vinyls applied to windows and hung from checkouts.

Many other retailers though have forgotten to join up the dots; failing to deliver a compelling and integrated Christmas brand experience. Argos, Morrisons, TK Maxx, Matalan – the list goes on.

Surprisingly, John Lewis has ignored Elton John in all but its Oxford Street store. Boots’ ‘Get them something that says you get them’ campaign delivers a sentimental message, but doesn’t translate in-store.

Then there’s Sainsbury’s. The retailer has clearly invested heavily in its seasonal POS in-store. And in contrast to the many wider implementation challenges it seems to be facing in-store of late, the visual execution of Christmas POS at least has been delivered consistently and very well. It’s just that it has spectacularly failed to capitalise on the popularity of its advert. With zero linkage in-store, it not only represents a disconnect between in-store and abovethe-line advertising, but will also no doubt have the same effect on shoppers to the brand experience of the supermarket this Christmas.

It’s a similar story with Tesco. Their social media accounts are driving the message home via repeated posts, but the website is woefully lacking any mention of the campaign. Step in-store and Christmas virtually disappears within five metres.

Once the central pull for shoppers at Christmas time, the store seems to have become something of a sideshow, half-heartedly reflecting retailers’ above-the-line Christmas campaigns or – worse – simply becoming a functional, unimaginative extension of their website homepage.

Increasingly, I find myself asking ‘where has the magic gone?’

Despite Peacocks claiming its happening in its store, it seems many senior leadership teams are committing the unforgivable act of overlooking the value of Christmas memories in favour of engineering costs out of the business. Forget Black Friday. Think back. How many children used to visit the ‘big store’ to see Father Christmas with their family at the start of the festive season? This was a huge ‘Red Friday’ moment for retailers. Not only pester power at its most potent, but retailers putting on a show, with store windows drawing huge crowds of excited shoppers. In turn, they were more likely to purchase in-store. These children have grown up with memories that now influence their own shopper behaviour.

I would love to see retailers shake off the shackles of expectation and instead dive into their imaginations and make Christmas a special time in retail once more. Yes, delivering an integrated campaign in-store is important. But it still doesn’t hit the right button if it’s a tired replication of what’s already been done. The physical store is the perfect opportunity for retailers to add some seasonal sparkle, bringing Christmas into glorious 3D life for shoppers. Let’s have less Christmas-by-numbers. With a little effort, stores could engage, enthral and motivate shoppers to spend. And, for retailers, that really is the magic of Christmas.

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project focus

project focus

Levi's

Times Square, New York City

Photography courtesy of Levi's

Design: In-house Opening date: November 2018 Store size: 1,570 sq m

At 1,570 sq m, the new Levi's store in New York City's Times Square is the brand's largest global flagship destination to date.

Opened in November, in time for Christmas, the dual-level store is designed to deliver a one-of-a-kind shopping experience that celebrates customisation, personalisation and local New York artists.

The space leverages the very best in store design, product assortment and omnichannel capabilities, and is home to the largest Levi's tailor shop in the world, with four on-site tailors and direct-togarment printing capabilities. With iPads and tailors staffing the shop from open to close, consumers can access preloaded photos, images, logos and text designed by local New York artists to craft customised pieces. For the launch, these included works by urban photographer 13th Witness, graphic designer Happy Noise, visual artist Cey Adams, and graffiti artist Futura.

'The store design concept is built upon our existing program while also responding to the history of the site,' explains Jessee Moyer, director, global store design, Levi Strauss & Co. 'As the former site of the Astor

Theatre, we wanted to incorporate some (modern) nods to the theatre into the design such as large format immersive LED screens, mezzanine seating on a viewing platform and theatrical light fixtures. The two floors are connected by a switchback escalator, joined at an intermediate mezzanine landing allowing consumers to pause and take in the 180 degree immersive LED screen on the lower level before descending down to the sales floor.'

The interior uses an uncomplicated palette of white paint, knotty pine plywood, hot rolled steel, polished concrete and

glass; finishes that are familiar to the Levi's brand. 'To modernise the way we used these materials, we incorporated LED light reveals to literally highlight key moments, including the tailor shop, fitting room entries, mannequin display runway and 501 shop, giving the space a fresh and clean look,' adds Moyer.

Mobile points-of-sale, associateassisted ordering, larger dressing rooms with call buttons and sustainable design elements (including store hangers made from 100 per cent recycled jeans) are all intended to enhance the in-store

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shopping experience.

'The store was always meant to embrace the balance between heritage and modernity,' says Chad Hinson, VP, creative director at Levi Strauss & Co. 'The juxtaposition of the LED screens and the hand-made indigo pieces was purposely created to highlight the brand's embracing of technology and craft. From the seven inch LOVE, PEACE & RESIST indigo batik pieces at the front of the store to the 14in hand-sewn batwing, made from indigo thread from cone mills, all of the art was thoughtfully created specifically for the space. Even the hand-painted signage throughout the store and the tailor shop was done by a local artist to ensure a very curated aesthetic.'

Levi's is also piloting a virtual 360-degree store experience where consumers can tour the store before visiting in person.

'Levi's is an accessible, inclusive brand that inspires consumers from all walks of life,' says Jen Sey, chief marketing officer for LS&Co Global Brands. 'Both Levi's and Times Square are cultural institutions, replete with history and stature, so the brand and location pairing makes perfect sense. Our direct-to-consumer and global marketplace strategy continues to pay off as we continue to invest in truly unique consumer experiences that emphasise customisation, denim leadership originality and the authenticity that only Levi's can claim.'

The store will also serve as a newsroom, hosting Extra! TV for a year-long in-store residency.

It is the sixth Levi's store to open in New York City and replaces the previous Times Square location.

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Claus Porto Elizabeth Street, New York City Design: Tacklebox Architecture; Loop Lighting Opening date: October 2018 Store size: 51 sq m Photography: Eric Petschek

In the Nolita neighbourhood of Manhattan in New York City, nestled among the designer jewellery shops, indie boutiques and cosy coffee shops sits Claus Porto's first international store. The 131-year old beauty and fragrance house collaborated with Tacklebox Architecture to design a space that pays homage to the brand's Portuguese roots.

On the ground floor of the early 1800's building stands a striking 12m-long archway that creates a portal through which visitors can immerse themselves in the world of Claus Porto's unique scents.

Made entirely from cork (a raw material that is characteristic to Portugal), the arch provides a subtle reference to Porto's

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SĂŁo Bento train station, which was first proposed in 1887 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the same year that Claus Porto was founded. The central rail hub is famed for its intricate azulejo tile work that depicts historical events in Portuguese history and serves as a welcoming gateway for those arriving in Porto.

The freestanding structure also references the tile facade of the historic Casa dos Bicos in Lisbon with its diamond tiles and carved cork niches, which house the brand's collections.

When entering the store, customers are greeted with a series of objects from the brand's history, including a framed diploma certifying that Claus Porto was awarded a

gold medal at the 1904 Universal Exhibition in Saint Louis. Together, the pieces help tell the story of the company and include elements related to Claus Porto's tradition as a fragrance house.

At the centre of the space stands a monolithic washbasin, carved from the same Estremoz marble that features in the Porto flagship store. The piece references the baptismal font and celebrates the ritual of daily cleansing.

Claus Porto is present in 60 countries and sold by the world's most exclusive retailers, including Bergdorf Goodman, Liberty London and Le Bon MarchĂŠ. The soaps are beautifully hand wrapped in the house's vintage-inspired labels.

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The Designer Street Room Selfridges, London

Design: Jamie Fobert Architects; Four One Four; Mighty Mighty; Brinkworth Opening date: October 2018 Store size: 1,672 sq m

Look up at the junction where London's Duke Street and Oxford Street intersect and there's a chance you might catch sight of the imposing skateboard bowl that has been installed in the newly opened first floor Designer Street Room at Selfridges.

Conceptualised by Mighty Mighty in collaboration with design agency Brinkworth and ramp builders Four One Four, the peanut-shaped wooden skate bowl forms the social and cultural hub of the new menswear space, which also houses a custom-built Land Rover Defender.

The Designer Street Room is the newest addition to the menswear floor, presenting luxury, street and progressive fashion product together for the first time in one area. Designed by Jamie Fobert Architects (the firm behind the Selfridges Shoe Galleries and Women's Designer Galleries), the 1,672 sq m space offers visitors a new place to shop, meet, spend time and skate.

'The innovative concept is the result of customer research and insight that profile the way street-to-designer menswear categories are shopped today and will increasingly be shopped in the near future,' says a spokesperson for Selfridges. 'For this new space, more than ever, customer behaviour and customer demand have been put at the centre of every aspect of the new destination.'

By uncovering the store's largest windows outside the ground floor main windows, and restoring the columns and ceilings from the original Selfridges 1909 building, the design team has created a generous light-filled room.

Here, custom-made frameworks in mill-finished aluminium make reference to drive-in movie screens and billboards, and form a creative and adaptable backdrop for designers and guests to customise.

'The conceptual pillars used to develop the Designer Street

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Roomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s identity are fashion, art, music, skate and cars, with a focus on how our customer and partners use these elements as a way to communicate,' explains the spokesperson for Selfridges.

'With its original architectural concept, the room will give brands and customers space, acting as a platform for creative output and exchange.'

A custom-built speaker wall forms a main attraction in the room, alongside the permanent wooden skate bowl and Land Rover Defender.

'In a drastically changing retail landscape, only brave and visionary brands who are able to future-proof their position and expand their consumer base will excel,' says Phil Young, founder of Mighty Mighty. 'Selfridges is a great example of that. The relationship that skateboarding holds with art, culture and fashion is well-documented. To create a bowl, which in itself is sculpturally striking and where the art of skating can come alive, is testament to Selfridges' innate understanding of progressive culture.'

For the launch of The Designer Street Room, Instagram and online store dotCOMME brought an original collection of archive Walter van Beirendonck pieces, alongside the SS19 collection chosen by Selfridges buyers. It marks the first in a series of digital-to-physical partnerships that will see the room host personal archives and shoppable retrospectives.

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retail 2019

Retail 2019: Trend It has been a difficult year for retail in 2018, but the high street is not dead. It is simply changing and adapting to meet the needs and demands of today’s connected consumer. Take the new Nike stores in LA and New York, for example, which are built on data and driven by digital. Each site seamlessly integrates digital and physical retail, offering spaces and experiences that are both personal and responsive. This, according to Nike, is the future of bricks-and-mortar retail and the experts, it seems, are inclined to agree.

Activating on Customer Need States Emily Hamilton, director of brand marketing, FRCH

Learn from Covent Garden Howard Saunders, retail futurist, 22nd & 5th

Bricks-and-mortar retailers need to do a better job of anticipating their customer need states. A shopper with a return or an issue with a product is going to be in a very different mindset (and potentially frustration level) than someone just looking to browse. By identifying what those customer need states are sooner and giving each one a clear, dedicated destination in your space, brands can provide a more effective experience for both customer and retailer.

Whether it’s a separate entrance for product support, dedicated spaces for returns, a drive-through BOPIS offering, or even an entire store dedicated solely to testing product, retailers need to create an experience that’s intuitive and efficient for all customer need states.

Retailers also don’t want to over promise and under deliver.

These solutions must be supported by clear signage and wayfinding systems, dedicated staff, and a seamless online experience. Make it intuitive, make it simple, make it convenient.

While these may seem like table stakes, if the space isn’t activated correctly it becomes a determent to the brand, as shoppers may not give you a second chance to get it right.

Brands who want to stand out in 2019 should be proactively offering these solutions to provide their customers with a more tailored experience and one that can optimise their operations to maximise both their square footage and their staff. Creating and delivering a flexible experience to meet the unique needs of each customer journey will be crucial in the future of retail. www.frch.com

Oh, how I miss those halcyon days, when we would playfully explore next year’s retail trends in terms of form, colour and texture. More recently, we would toy with far fetched visions of a future populated by robots and drones built to cater to our every whimsy. But all this seems irrelevant now that a perfect storm has descended upon our town centres. 2018 was the year M&S announced its store closures and made it clear that our high streets are dying. It’s easier to stay home and browse through Amazon. Retail has been well and truly milked for revenue and this relentless squeeze has thwarted investment leaving most of our town centres with a few deluded, cookie-cutter stores hanging on in desperation.

But let’s end the year on a positive note. Covent Garden may be a silly, over-privileged, tourist must-do, but it is having its heyday right now, and there are lessons we can learn here. At its beating heart is a covered craft market and performance space for buskers that keep it alive and entertaining all year round. Watching all the fun from the stalls is an extraordinary mix of unique stores, bars and coffee shops. Further up the streets are the value fashion houses and the chain-stores, punctuated by vibrant new restaurants.

Covent Garden has worked hard to ensure it always has unique designs from the best brands. It is a roll-out free zone. Exchange some of the high-end excess for locally grown talent and there’s no reason every high street cannot follow this template.

So, 2019 won’t be the year we put things right, but it might well be the year we finally realise what we want from retail. www.22and5.com

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retail 2019

nds & Predictions

Smaller, Smarter Stores Kate Ancketill, CEO and founder, GDR Creative Intelligence It’s headline grabbing to be a doom-monger and suggest that 2018 will be remembered for store closures (up 17 per cent in the first six months), the decline of anchor department stores and severely challenged high streets. While there’s no doubt retail is pivoting, with inevitable growing pains, I think with hindsight we’ll see this period as indicative of the shift towards retail built around the smartphone, rather than the car.

Look at Nike’s By You store in LA. It’s stocked based on the interests and purchases of local NikePlus members. Each customer gets a personal welcome and recommendations, and digital integrations allow them to reserve shoes to try on, search the brand’s local inventory and complete purchase in-app.

In 2019 I expect to see more stores like this that are both physical and digital hubs, and that put customers in complete control; allowing them to start, pause and complete their shopping journeys whenever and wherever they want. Alibaba’s Jack Ma calls this ‘new retail’ — ‘the integration of online, offline, logistics and data across a single value chain’.

Former Iceland and Wickes CEO and author of The Grimsey Review, Bill Grimsey, predicts community, rather than retail, will soon become the anchor of UK’s high streets. I fully agree. 21st century retail, because of e-commerce and new retail integration, doesn’t need as much space. Stores will be smaller, but they’ll be smarter, more experiential and micro-fragmented, like US department store Nordstrom’s Local stores. These hold no permanent stock but act more like upmarket click-and-collect changing rooms, with additional hybrid services like tailoring and beauty treatments.

In 2019 we’ll see more optimisation of local inventories based on the online behaviours of local shoppers, more fragmentation of formats according to time and location, and more hybridisation. www.gdruk.com

The Hyper-Relevance of Physical Retail Oliver Michell, chief creative officer, FutureBrand UXUS Physical retail in 2018 is transforming its purpose to answer new consumer shifts. Key trends include fast vs. slow retail, inclusivity vs exclusivity, and empowering the local community. Fast vs. slow retailing combats online commerce, ‘fast’ by offering the same level of immediacy as online vs. ‘slow’, a hospitality-driven approach that immerses consumers in a physical environment. Inclusivity has become aspirational, empowering consumers through a greater diversity of experiences and products in-store. Large brands are also empowering the local community through one-off cultural destinations; bringing unique experiences and services, local design influences, and culturally relevant communications to support the area.

Retail in 2018 is further addressing the issue of locality through data-driven stores, restructuring how brands tailor the appropriate products to local audiences. Local consumer data gathered through digital channels is now able to customise needs to each individual location, creating a seamless omnichannel approach.

In 2019 (and beyond), on-demand flexibility within the store environment will reach new heights to meet the consumers’ needs in the moment. Data-driven formats will go beyond tailoring products to a local audience. A flexible merchandising approach and hyper-customisation activities will tailor the experience to whatever the customer wants. Flexible merchandising enables brands to localise and quickly change visual merchandising of products by understanding what is relevant to the consumer in real time. Product customisation will enable the store to work as a local factory, empowering consumers to actively become involved in the process of creation and curation of their perfect product. www.futurebranduxus.com

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Flash retail to go 2019 here

A Renaissance of Place-Making and Commitment to Micro Culture Stefanie Dorfer, retail editor, Stylus 2018 shaped up to be the year brands recognised the value of retail grounded in ‘un-consumption’, as part of a wider understanding that physical spaces are touch-papers for brand experiences but don’t necessarily need to be a brand’s transactional backbone.

As part of the advent of softer selling engagement strategies, we started to see retailers using physical spaces as a way to establish micro relationships between brand and consumer.

Matches Fashion’s townhouse 5 Carlos Place in Mayfair — the luxury epitome of the soft selling trend — emphasises socialising as much as shopping, and hosts a year-round calendar of events including panels and workshops. We’re seeing this trend play out in the US too with The Phluid Project — a gender-free clothing store — seeing itself as a space for exploring identities, echoing the increasingly non-binary vision of the world.

We expect to see a renaissance of place-making and commitment to micro culture in 2019. London’s Coal Drops Yard, a new, barely-branded breed of mall where space is dedicated to non-product concepts and emerging artisans as well as iconic retailers, is a great example of a destination created with these needs in mind.

2018 was also a year that retailers more tightly embraced gamified entertainment, pushing for an ‘earn’ not ‘buy’ mentality — one of retail’s incoming differentiators in a culture of instant gratification. We saw this brought to life this year through more gamified experiences, including Outdoor Voices encouraging a level of effort via a digital-led scavenger hunt, giving fans virtual access to exclusive pieces along a 5k running route.

Both trends tie into the growing unease regarding the crassness of straight-up consumption, indicating that 2019 will be the year successful brands prove they have an eye on more than just a financial prize. www.stylus.com

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Store-based data profiling Rhiannon McGregor, foresight writer, The Future Laboratory While the much-vaunted retail Armageddon may still feel very real, in 2019 physical stores that use both design and technology to inspire their customers will not only survive but also thrive. We are seeing forward-thinking retailers like the South Korean eyewear brand Gentle Monster using their floor space to create thoughtprovoking cultural experiences where brand comes first and product takes a back seat, providing shoppers with a memorable sensory experience.

Future-facing bricks-and-mortar brands will also increasingly personalise the store experience through the use of consumer data profiles. One brand doing this particularly well is Nike, which is using local data to stock shelves and offer smart, seamless shopping across an entire floor of its New York flagship store. Staff stock the shop floor based on what items are selling best online in the local area and shoppers can reserve items through the Nike app in advance of their visit, which are held for them in lockers to streamline the in-store experience.

The opportunity to present customers with bespoke discounts and deals is another advantage of investing in store-based data profiling. Already, consumers want retailers to integrate such systems, with 50 per cent of consumers in the US expressing interest in in-the-moment, location-based discounts and coupons via their mobile device while shopping in-store. These are just some of the trends that we have identified as part of our Future Forecast 2019 where we explore the 50 major cultural shifts that will affect consumer consumption habits over the coming year. www.thefuturelaboratory.com

RETAIL FOCUS

FORUM VM & DISLAY SHOW

3-4 APRIL, BDC LONDON

shopping centres Text: Lyndsey Dennis

COMMUNITY HUBS: SHOPPING CENTRES OF THE FUTURE Shopping centres of the future will be part of whole community developments, comprising residential, hotel, office space, retail and leisure, finds Retail Focus.

30 October 2008: The date Westfield London opened its doors, marking the official arrival of the Westfield brand in the UK capital. Some 10 years on, the shopping centre has attracted more than half a billion visitors and generated more than £16.7 billion in sales.

Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield has invested more than £4 billion in its London sites over the past decade and has a further £2 billion-plus planned. There are good reasons why the shopping centre giant’s destinations continue to be catalysts for the development of ‘London’s Opportunity Areas’. Westfield London and Westfield Stratford City have made these areas around White City and the Olympic site more attractive places to visit, work, live and enjoy. The planned Croydon Westfield site — a 50 per cent joint venture partnership with Hammerson — will see a £5.4 billion planned investment in the area.

Changing with the times over the past decade has been the key to the success of the centres themselves, according to a recent report entitled ‘10 Years in the Making’, which explores the social-economic impact of UnibailRodamco-Westfield centres in London.

The centres have created retail, leisure and entertainment destinations that span beyond the traditional shopping centre offering. This also includes enhancing the mixed-use natures of the company’s sites, which feature approximately 67,354 sq m of office space. Residential also has a valuable role to play; Unibail-RodamcoWestfield has plans for around 4,000 new homes across the capital, including affordable housing.

Westfield Stratford City has attracted 50 million visitors in the last year. The popular East London destination has now welcomed more than 323 million visitors

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since its opening in 2011, generating retail sales of more than £7.4 billion. ‘Expectations for future growth are very strong with an estimated £22 billion to be invested by 2027 bringing more retail, homes and offices, as well as cultural and learning institutions to the area,’ says Michel Dessolain, COO Europe for Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield.

Liverpool ONE also celebrated a decade of success this year. Grosvenor Europe, developer, co-owner and asset manager of the shopping centre, has marked the 10th anniversary with a publication of analysis of Liverpool ONE’s socio-economic impact. As well as its contributions to the local economy, Grosvenor has donated £2 million to the community via the Liverpool ONE Foundation, an enterprise set up before the development opened to provide support to community projects across the city region.

‘From the outset, our goals for Liverpool ONE were to reinvigorate Liverpool’s retail and leisure offer, create a connected mixed-use destination that local residents could be proud of and, overall, to deliver lasting commercial and social benefits to the Liverpool City Region,’ says Miles Dunnett, director, portfolio management at Grosvenor Europe.

Centre:mk’s joint owners, Hermes Investment Management and AustralianSuper, recently commissioned strategic foresight consultancy The Future Laboratory to explore the trends that will shape retail in the next decade, resulting in the ‘Future Shopper Report’.

Kathryn Bishop, deputy foresight editor at The Future Laboratory, said the company identified three emerging and significant areas of growth when putting together the report:

Community-builders: Retail spaces that connect like-minded shoppers through events and services beyond the hard sell via platforms that offer support, advice, play and experimentation.

Hero-hunters: Future consumers will

actively seek destination retail spaces that are trustworthy, and demonstrate an enhanced level of understanding and care for the surrounding community, local businesses and organisations.

Service Synergists: Retail staff will

become ultimate brand ambassadors by creating deeper, trusted connections with consumers using heightened knowledge, emotional intelligence (EQ) and creativity to curate and personalise future shopping experiences.

‘Consumers want places that are fun to go to, that are vibrant, community orientated, with programming, personal service, with knowledge from the shop assistants who are running their sections and able to help,’ says Bishop. She sees shopping centres of the future as an escape from the digital world, and a large part of this will be down to programming, whether its lifestyle workshops, live music or communal events. ‘Communication is so important today, in a world where people spend an average of six hours per day in front of a screen,’ says Bishop.

She notes research by Gensler, which revealed 94 per cent of visitors to public spaces undertake multiple activities when they are there. ‘Increasingly, retail spaces are public spaces. People go there to grab a coffee, catch up with friends, they may go and see an exhibition, do some shopping and get an experience or do a bit of people watching. We have to think

shopping centres

Top left: Investment to enhance Barton Square at intu Trafford Centre includes a redesigned interior and glass-domed roof.

Top right: Liverpool ONE is celebrating a decade of success.

Left: intu’s work at intu Costa Del Sol provides an insight into the developer’s vision for the shopping centre of the future.

Below: Westfield London celebrated its 10th anniversary in October.

about who is coming and what they are doing there,’ says Bishop. ‘I think we’ll see increasingly modular fit-outs in retail destinations; the ability to have a space that can create different destinations throughout the day such as cookery classes, classes for new mums, then onto a stage in the afternoon for performances.’

Of course, we can’t discuss shopping centres without mentioning food and drink outlets. ‘Two thirds of millennials eat out at least once a week; twice the number as baby boomers. Even Gen Z who are quite money conscious are eating out — 4050 per cent of them once a week — and they are looking for healthy options and options that are kind of indulgent but still made with quality ingredients, and we’ll see an increase in vegan dining,’ continues Bishop. ‘People want immersive food experiences, so when you do go out you can learn about that product or have your own chance at making it.’ She notes Fico Eataly World in Bologna, Italy as a great example: ‘It’s all about Italian eating and Italian food with almost museum-like experiences, and there’s also a shopping mall at the end where you can test all the ingredients or have all the mains at the bar and drink a glass of Prosecco. It’s a joined up process.’

Technology is also a key player in the F&B sector, for example, there are KFCs in China where you can smile and pay for your dinner through digital recognition.

And the likes of Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology and similar, of course, allowing customers to grab a Starbucks coffee on the go while walking around shopping centres. ‘On one hand there will be this experiential aspect where you’re learning and being taught about cultures, and on the other hand this need for speed and quickness,’ says Bishop.

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shopping Flash to go centres here Right: centre:MK has attracted the likes of Virgin Holidays, which has opened its biggest store to date at the centre, designed by YourStudio.

intu currently has two major developments underway, the 16,258 sq m retail and leisure development at intu Lakeside and its £75 million enhancement of Barton Square at intu Trafford Centre. intu has also recently opened its 37,161 sq m development at intu Watford, which has, according to CACI, elevated the town to a top 20 retail destination alongside Edinburgh and Bristol. The growing appeal of the centre will increase its potential catchment population from 1.6 million to 2.8 million, making it the number one choice for even more shoppers. Retailers and operators will also reap the benefits of a 47 per cent increase in market potential and a 73 per cent increase in comparison goods expenditure (CACI 2017 report on intu Watford).

‘At intu Lakeside we’ve invested £72 million to create a game-changing leisure-led development, which will transform the centre into the UK’s leading retail resort when it opens next year, enticing even more customers from further afield and enabling tenants to generate even greater results. Nickelodeon’s first-ever UK shopping attraction and hi-tech mini golf operator Puttshack will launch there alongside Hollywood Bowl, Flip Out and 10 new restaurants,’ says Martin Breeden, development director for intu.

The centre continues to attract new brands including Jack Wills and Mitsubishi Motors, and has seen significant investment from existing brands including Zara and River Island who have tripled their store space to create flagship stores.

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At intu Trafford Centre, the centre has attracted customers from across the world as well as an increasing number of international retailers including Abercombie & Fitch. ‘Our investment to enhance Barton Square at intu Trafford Centre includes a redesigned interior and a glass-domed roof. Existing anchor tenants including SEA LIFE Manchester, LEGOLAND Discovery Centre and Next Home, will sit alongside a new Primark which will open when the project completes in early 2020,’ says Breedon.

Work on developments at intu Broadmarsh and intu Costa Del Sol will commence in 2019, and intu has recently announced it is looking at opportunities within its portfolio for alternative uses of available land including residential, hotel, office, flexible working and other uses.

Initial work has highlighted the potential for around 5,000 residential units and nearly 600 hotel rooms, with further opportunities under active consideration. All of these would both create value directly but also increase the overall attractiveness and catchment of intu’s centres. intu’s work at intu Costa Del Sol provides an insight into the developer’s vision for the shopping centre of the future. ‘We’re taking everything we’ve learned so far to a whole new level with leisure attractions including open-air skiing, theme park attractions, an aquarium, along with a hotel, conference centre and creative retail units. There’s already been widespread interest from both Spanish and international operators who want to be a part of this redefined shopping experience. So, the shopping centre of

the future is ultimately about making the physical shopping experience as compelling as possible by understanding the shopping centre environment and customers’ increasing demand for a seamless shopping experience. Due to the changing nature of this environment, we’re constantly developing spaces to create better and more relevant experiences, focusing on great quality design, attention to detail and customer engagement; creating a family-friendly day out destination that delivers retail, leisure and dining all under one roof,’ says Breedon. intu is continuing to create destinations where customers can eat, shop, play and relax all under one roof. ‘We’re welcoming an increasing amount of leisure brands across our portfolio including climbing operator Rock Up and new bar and restaurant, The Florist at intu Watford, which is a third retail, a third leisure and a third dining. The combination of this offer encourages even more customers to visit which in turn helps all retailers deliver stronger results.

What centre:mk’s Future Shopper Report confirms is that understanding what is driving consumers, through a mix of data and direct interaction, will be critical to the success of destination retail spaces, enalbing them to curate an overall experience that meets the needs and desires of future shoppers. Landlords will need to work alongside brands and business owners to create communitycentric hubs where empathy, human connections, personalisation and escapism are front and centre.

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opinion

Future formats: Reaching the consumers of tomorrow Formats of retail need to be re-imagined within new models of retailing, claims Nathan Watts, creative director at FITCH.

Brands and retailers across all categories face an onslaught of disruption. As a result, many of the traditional retail formats fail to meet the needs of customers.

Organisations, as observed with our own clients, are focused on realigning or optimising the mix of touchpoints that consumers experience. As a key part of this focus, there appears a strong desire to reimagine the role of retail formats within future-focused omnichannel strategies.

A universal truth for formats Our late founder Rodney Fitch once said, ‘No retail format can be successful unless it meets the expectation of the society that it serves’. Pondering on his statement, it strikes me that it could be considered a universal truth for brands and retailers, an idea for any time and place, and a compass by which to remain relevant.

Within the detail of the statement however, much has changed. The measurement of success in a format has traditionally been seen through the lens of square foot sales. New metrics must be added to account for the wider effect of the format across all channels.

Then there is the heightened expectation we place on brands at retail. More speed, more personalisation, more social and environmental awareness, more uniqueness.

for clarity of purpose, so it’s necessary to look at the particular role each will play in the whole.

But what role? As we increasingly purchase more of our goods online, stores need to do something different. And if buying is not the primary reason for visiting a store, then what is the store for?

This shift can be seen in some new emerging formats, where the stores play a different role in the fulfilment chain.

With fast home deliveries now expected and commonplace, stock holding at retail is put to question. Nordstrom is experimenting with small local stores that carry no inventory, but provide customers opportunities to try products, then arrange for purchased items to be delivered.

In China, Hema fresh food grocery stores double up as warehouse hubs for online orders. Store pickers collect products from supermarket shelves and send them on automated carousels directly to drivers, enabling them to deliver within 30 minutes to a three mile radius.

In both examples, the physical design of each store has been totally reimagined within a newly connected retail model.

Leveraging format attributes Reimagining the role of the store around new models of fulfilment is one option, but what are the other considerations for future formats? Brands and retailers need to start by looking at the natural attributes of each retail channel and format. For the physical store, it comes down to three I’s: Instant, immersive and inhabited.

Instant Format purpose and a role in the whole Seamlessness is another expectation, and the temptation for brands and retailers is to turn each format into a multifunctional entity, a kind of swiss-army knife experience, where the customer can achieve everything, everywhere.

This approach fails to recognise the need

Still, no other channel is as convenient as the physical store when it comes to immediacy of access. Retailers need to embrace the opportunity by moving closer to their audiences. This might mean downsizing and multiplying or even moving to meet the customer where they spend time. Brands and retailers should be experimenting with mobile formats

and vending formats to meet our needs for convenience.

Immersive The physical realm is a multisensory dimension that puts us in the centre.

Theatrical spaces, event driven spaces, spaces that tell stories and involve us in the narrative. For formats that are less about selling and more about experiencing, retailers need to find their immersive angle and run with it.

Inhabited Real people are the magic and stickiness that can only be fully experienced in the physical space. Staff can be the strongest brand advocates, so retailers need to put their people at the heart, either to guide the experience or to explain a complex product offering or service.

Working around complexity Transforming a traditional network of formats is a daunting task and will require an experimentational test-and-learn attitude. There is no doubt that retail is currently over indexed on the high street.

Closing stores can look like an exercise in managing decline, but with a vision for the future role of physical formats, a positive re-alignment can be established.

The first big step is to establish a belief in the power of physical retail as an antidote to the new online worlds that we spend much of our time. If proof is needed, take a look at the growing list of online retailers who swore never to open physical stores. Amazon, Everlane, Warby Parker and Missguided to name a few, saw the opportunity of physical formats to engage more deeply with consumers.

The failures on our high street have generally been those to act slowest to change. Brands and retailers need to take the steps now by reimagining their formats, to secure their fortunes for the future.

www.fitch.com 47

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awards

CELEBRATING Text: Lyndsey Dennis Awards photography: Melvyn Vincent

CREATIVES VM & DISPLAY AWARDS 2018

The visual merchandising and display industry came together in November to celebrate creativity.

Below: Comedian and TV personality Hal Cruttenden hosted the evening.

The Bloomsbury Big Top in London once again hosted the VM & Display Awards in November, recognising the best window and in-store schemes from the past 12 months. Hosted by comedian and TV personality Hal Cruttenden, the awards ceremony featured 20 categories, including Best Christmas Windows in a Multiple, Best Use of Props, the Retail Focus Readers’ Choice Award and Most Innovative Person in VM. Top winners on the night included Clarks, with the brand’s retail visual design manager, Craig Love winning Most Innovative Person in VM. His work at Clarks also won Best Use of Technology in VM for the brand’s Second Skin campaign, and Best Christmas Window in a Multiple for its 2017 campaign, both created in collaboration with Harlequin, who incidentally won the Retail Focus Readers’ Choice Award for its work on Joseph’s plywood installation.

‘We first started entering these awards in 2012, so to win Most Innovative Person in VM feels quite surreal. I feel super proud of my team and everything we have achieved in winning. I hope

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awards

VM & DISPLAY AWARDS 2018 Left: Craig Love was awarded Most Innovative Person in VM.

we continue to inspire, change perceptions and deliver the unexpected,’ says Love.

Other winners on the night included Harvey Nichols, which walked away with three awards. The department store’s Stars 2017 Christmas campaign was awarded Best Christmas Windows in an Independent, in collaboration with Abama, ANS Lighting, Global Display, Press On and Stylo; its Fluid campaign that scooped Best Use of Mannequins in an Independent in collaboration with ANS Lighting and Atrezzo; and Little Britain that won Best Window Graphic in collaboration with ANS Lighting and Global Display.

A full round-up of all the winners and runners up can be viewed at

www.retail-focus.co.uk

Above: Joseph’s Plywood installation in association with the V&A won the Retail Focus Readers’ Choice Award.

Left: Harvey Nichols’ Stars Christmas campaign was awarded Best Christmas Windows in an Independent in collaboration with Abama, ANS Lighting, Global Display, Press On and Stylo.

Bottom left: Clarks’ Second Skin campaign window won Best Use of Technology in VM. Below: Debenhams won Best Christmas Windows in a Multiple Department Store, in collaboration with Arty Wigs, B Brown, deco Woerner, Planarama, Rare Basic and Replica

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bond street

BOND STREET

Text: Lyndsey Dennis Photography: Publica

With a new Town Square and £50 million invested in new brand openings and store refurbishments, London’s Bond Street maintains its status as a world-class luxury shopping destination.

Since its foundation in 1700, Bond Street has been the playground of society’s wealthiest, most stylish and influential people. Past residents of the street include Admiral Horatio Nelson and Lady Emma Hamilton as well as a number of renowned authors and poets. Today, more than 300 years on, Bond Street remains a much-loved destination for celebrities, socialites and the international jet set.

‘Bond Street’s world class public realm and distinctive buildings, together with its mix of internationally renowned jewellers, fashion powerhouses and critically acclaimed galleries, has cemented its position as the most sought-after destination for luxury brands looking to locate their global flagships,’ says Dan Johnson, director of placemaking at New West End Company.

Linking Piccadilly in the south to Oxford Street in the north, Bond Street has been popular for retail since the 18th Century, being the home of many fashion outlets that sell prestigious or expensive items. The southern section is Old Bond Street and the longer northern section New Bond Street, the latter of which is the world’s third most expensive shopping street by store rents according to the ‘Main Streets Across the World’ report from Cushman & Wakefield. First place is Causeway Bay in Hong Kong, with Upper Fifth Avenue (49th-60th Street) second in the rankings.

Bond Street has recently welcomed a new Town Square, creating a brand new space for pedestrians to visit and relax in. It is part of the kilometre-long transformation scheme, which has increased space for pedestrians by 65 per cent, creating a relaxing environment to enjoy the high-end retail, galleries

and architecture. The Town Square is also home to the newly relocated sculpture Horse and Rider 1974, created by the acclaimed sculptor and Royal Academician Dame Elisabeth Frink. The sculpture was restored and relocated to the corner of New Bond Street and Burlington Gardens, as part of the £10 million upgrade.

‘Since the public realm scheme began in April 2017, Bond Street has seen an unprecedented level of investment, with £50 million invested through 10 new brand openings and seven major store refurbishments, as brands look to Bond Street as their new home. This includes openings by Chloe, Stella McCartney, Hublo, Alaia and Pomellato. In addition, Loewe, Givenchy and Tasaki are set to open before the end of the year. Richard Mille has acquired the former Alexander McQueen shop on Old Bond Street, and A. Lange & Söhne and Michael Kors are due to open along the street soon. In 2019 the new Alexander McQueen flagship will open and Herno will debut on the street,’ reveals Johnson.

Bond Street continues to evolve and attract top brands from across the world. Next year the opening of the Elizabeth line will increase entries and exits from Bond Street station by a projected 74 per cent, and by 2021 there will be 69.3 million entries and exits at Bond Street station, making it one of London’s most popular transport hubs. For the first time too, there will be a direct entrance onto Bond Street through a newly created arcade from Hanover Square. The high quality public realm has been completed in time to welcome these visitors and will ensure the street maintains its global status as a world-class luxury shopping destination.

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products

SURFACES & FINISHES Armourcoat Armourcoat’s new Acoustic Plaster System has been granted the Quiet Mark Award — the international mark of approval from the Noise Abatement Society Charitable Foundation. Quiet Mark is the international award programme and system of support for brands and consumers. Through its pioneering acoustic tests, the organisation awards its distinctive Purple Q Mark to products and services that show excellence in low-noise and high-performance. Designed to optimise the acoustics of interior spaces, the Armourcoat Acoustic plaster system offers a clean and smooth mineral surface that can be applied seamlessly over large expanses to both flat and curved surfaces.

T. +44 (0)1732 460 668 E: sales@armourcoat.co.uk www.armourcoat.com Twitter: armourcoat

Lawcris CompacMel Plus is an innovative and eco-friendly alternative to compact laminate, boasting a range of benefits that free the designer from the constraints of other materials. It is used a lot in changing rooms and staff rooms for lockers and furniture.

As well as moisture resistance and excellent machinability, CompacMel Plus features a black core throughout, allowing creativity in both shapes and applications, without the need for edging. In 18 vibrant uni-colours and woodgrains, it’s easy to see why this range is so popular. Find the whole range on the Lawcris website — www.lawcris.co.uk.

T. +44 (0)113 217 7177 E: sales@lawcris.co.uk www.lawcris.co.uk Twitter: Lawcris1982

International Decorative Surfaces CamuStyleTX, the latest collection from global decorative panel specialist Swiss Krono, has won the award for Excellent Product Design in the Material and Surfaces category of the prestigious German Design Awards 2019. Available exclusively in the UK from IDS, the collection harnesses the aesthetics of natural limestone and open weave fabric, expertly combining them into the unique CamuStyleTX texture.

CamuStyleTX’s palette of 12 organic and industrial decors is ideal for a variety of applications including stylish furniture components, door frontals, wall panelling, worksurfaces, table tops, counter cladding, shelving and doors. CamuStyleTX assures a durable, easy maintenance finish and comes with a flexible choice of an MFC, MDF or CDF core in a variety of sizes and thicknesses, with matching edging tape. The company produces the core board from 100 per cent virgin wood material, which meets and exceeds the standard requirements for both FSC and PEFC. T. +44 (0)845 023 0376 E. solutions@idsurfaces.co.uk www.idsurfaces.co.uk Twitter: idsurfaces

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Dorotape UK Transform any space in a fusion of brilliant colour with Dorotape’s range of dichroic films at a truly unbeatable price. Choose from two transparent and four opaque combinations, which can be applied to glass or any smooth surface, to achieve a captivating blend of colour depending on the viewing angle. Now, the new generation of this popular window film, Nebula Pro, provides the ultimate colour and clarity, making this film from Dorotape first choice for the most powerful and bespoke applications.

T. +44 (0)1858 431 642 E: sales@dorotape.co.uk www.dorotape.co.uk Twitter: doro_tape

products

Polyflor Flooring from Polyflor has been specified for the Ocean Fish and Chips Restaurant at The Flower Bowl mixed leisure destination at Barton Grange, Preston. Designed by Nigel Phillips Design, six designs from the Palettone PUR range were selected to create the bespoke floor in the dining area of the restaurant. Caramel Kick, Buttered Corn and Hay Grain featured to create a sand effect and the blues of Weekend Sky, Superior Sky and Sapphire Star were used in a waved pattern to create the Sea. Palettone PUR offers a palette of 50 contemporary colours, from pale neutrals through to more intense shades T. +44 (0)161 767 1111 E: info@polyflor.com www.polyflor.com Twitter: Polyflorltd

Formica Group Designed by Pinkeye, Telenet’s flagship shop on the Meir in Antwerp features Formica laminate to create a natural, peaceful and uplifting look. Difficult shapes, such as a round bench, were easy to achieve with the Formica Group materials. Natural Ash in a Naturelle finish from the Formica Woods Collection was chosen for both wall cladding and furniture.

Yellow was chosen as a motif due to its known capacity to stimulate creative thought and energy.

Formica laminate in Spectrum Yellow adds a touch of colour and sunshine the space needs to reflect Telenet’s brand.

T. +44 (0)191 622 0096 E. samples.uk@formica.com www.formica.com Twitter: FormicaGroupEU

International Decorative Surfaces

Amtico

The new Elements3 collection, available from January 2019 exclusively from IDS, is a 3mm mineral-based solid surface material that is easy to fabricate for the creation of high-end signature designs while offering significant cost-saving benefits, backed by the assurance of a 10-year warranty. Ideal for retail interior projects, Elements3 is suitable for both horizontal and vertical applications and can be cut, shaped, moulded, thermoformed and seamlessly jointed, offering unlimited design possibilities. In addition, an existing 12mm solid surface product can be colour matched creating an identical 3mm version at a fraction of the cost.

Amtico has launched Colour Anchor, a striking new palette of carpet tiles that provides designers and specifiers with a wider range of possibilities for commercial interiors. Consisting of 15 different shades, from neutrals to brights, the versatile tiles are the ideal accompaniment to Amtico’s existing carpet collection, while offering more playful and adventurous design possibilities. By introducing new bold single colours, such as ‘Poppy’, ‘Meadow’ or ‘Abuzz’, designers can add contrasting accents to a scheme, or alternatively blend stronger shades with neutral tones to deliver a visually inspiring space.

Furthermore, the use of coloured carpet tiles in extensive commercial environments, such as offices, schools and retail outlets, aids the designation of zones. The new tiles are supplied in a single square size of 24in x 24in.

T. +44 (0)845 603 7811 E. solutions@idsurfaces.co.uk www.elements3.co.uk Twitter: idsurfaces

T. +44 (0)121 745 0800 E. info@amtico.com www.amtico.com/commercial Twitter: AmticoFlooring

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products

flooring Tarkett Bridal retailer WED2B has selected luxury vinyl floor tiles from Tarkett. To further enhance the customer experience in the new WED2B store in Ashford, Kent, a combination of iD inspiration 70 Luxury Vinyl Tiles featuring brushed pine grey and brown tones was selected. The tiles are made to stay looking great — even in the face of high foot traffic. Treated with Tarkett’s Top Clean surface protection system, all the planks and tiles in this collection have the additional benefits of easy maintenance and a high resistance to scuffs, scratches and stains. The combination of a beautiful realistic wood effect pattern, with the high performance benefits, made Tarkett’s iD Inspiration 70 ideal for WED2B. T. +44 (0)1622 854 000 E: uksales@tarkett.com www.tarkett.co.uk Twitter: TarkettUK

Havwoods Havwoods has introduced six new plank designs to its popular Henley collection. A fashion-forward product with plenty of character, Henley is the ideal floorcovering for those who desire the texture of a reclaimed board, with the strength and durability of an engineered construction. Featuring a superiorquality European oak lamella, this high-performance plank offers a durable and long-lasting surface that also delivers on visual appeal. Henley presents a choice of over 30 distinctive designs and surface finishes to ensure a suitable fit for any design brief, from various oil applications, to smoked and hand-distressed effects.

T. +44 (0)1524 737 000 E: info@havwoods.co.uk www.havwoods.co.uk Twitter: havwoods

Forbo Flooring Systems

Tarkett

Forbo Flooring Systems has launched its award winning Allura Fusion; a luxury vinyl tile (LVT) collection that uses innovative colouring techniques to create a fresh unique look, with no pattern repeats. The trend collection, which was recently decorated with the prestigious international Red Dot Design Award, features four plank and three tile designs, with every piece of the Allura Fusion range completely unique. No two planks or tiles are the same, resulting in an organic and truly individual aesthetic. This is made possible by the innovative manufacturing technique, which combines traditional printing methods with free-flowing, coloured PVC streams to produce the 0.7mm wear layer. The result is a flowing, expressive appearance, which is further heightened by the realistic wood embossing on the plank options.

Cementi Click is a new category of premium mineral tiles and planks from Tarkett, for architectural spaces. Manufactured from 95 per cent clay, cement’s main composite, Cementi Click boasts the look and feel of this raw modern material, thus embodying the timeless elegance of concrete art in architecture. The collection features a range of stone and graphical designs. Subtle marble, ethereal decors, and natural clay tone effects create a pure and refined architectural atmosphere for designers and architects looking to create inspirational spaces from mineral textures.

T. +44 (0)1773 744 121 E. info.flooring.uk@forbo.com www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/allurafusion Twitter: forboflooring

T. +44 (0)1622 854 000 E: uksales@tarkett.com www.tarkett.co.uk Twitter: TarkettUK

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products

LIGHTING Megaman Megaman has launched its patented Dual Beam Technology (DBT). Incorporated in a selected range of products, the innovative technology offers a flexible choice of beam angles that can be changed easily on site. This latest intelligent innovation from Megaman will also enable wholesalers to rationalise stock. DBT is currently available with Megaman’s PAR16 Dimmable 5.5W LEDs, in colour temperatures of 2,800K or 4,000K, and also with the 24W MARCO MIDI integrated LED white tracklight, available in 3,000K and 4,000K. All LEDs with DBT have a narrow and a wide flood setting, catering for any lighting plan and changeable at a moments notice. The PAR16 LEDs have beam angle options of 24° on the narrow flood setting and 35° on the wider beam angle.

T. +44 (0)1707 386 000 E: sales@megamanuk.com www.megamanuk.com Twitter: MegamanUKLtd

Flos Gaku by Nendo is the latest addition to the Flos portfolio. Gaku is a frame (this is the meaning of ‘gaku’ in Japanese) hosting and interacting with lamps and a variety of matching objects, which is conceived as something inbetween accessories and furniture.

An adjustable-height pendant lamp hangs down inside a frame, while a wireless version features inductive charging functionality to power a luminescent lamp. Normally laying on the charging dock, the lamp can be moved around freely when lighting is needed elsewhere.

T. +39 03024381 E. info@flos.com www.flos.com Twitter: FlosWorldwide

Reggiani UK

iGuzzini

A wide range of luminaires from Reggiani have been installed in the new Jaguar Land Rover showroom and servicing centre in Slough, Berkshire. Both Jaguar and Land Rover occupy their own showroom space within the new facility with both areas utilising Reggiani’s soft recessed Yori L linear fittings to provide the desired uniform ambient lighting. All vehicles are highlighted by two suspended linear Mood fittings with a brighter and cooler colour temperature of 4,000K. Fittings are positioned at an equidistant 1.4m from the centre of every vehicle to ensure an efficient scheme with no shaded areas.

The newest addition to Belfast’s growing City Quays development is the AC Marriott Hotel, designed by Mark Higgins with the interior design by Karen Crookes, both of Robinson Patterson Partnership. The designers worked closely with Chroma Lighting — iGuzzini’s partner in Northern Ireland — to make lighting a key feature of the project; extensive use of the iGuzzini Laser Blade and System 53 ensures that the light is effective yet discreet, while the use of concealed Underscore LED strips helps reveal the architectural details and interior finishes without drawing attention to the luminaires. Externally, the public spaces around the hotel are illuminated using a combination of iGuzzini Wow outdoor luminaires, which have been adopted throughout the project, and small Woody projectors mounted on bespoke columns which illuminate the open areas. As with the interior, concealed Underscore InOut is used to give shape to the landscape details.

T. +44 (0)20 8236 3000 E.reggiani@reggiani.co.uk www.reggiani.net Twitter: reggianilight

T. +44 (0)1483 468 000 E. info.uk@iguzzini.com www.iguzzini.com Twitter: iGuzziniUK

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Tel 01952 290055 â&#x20AC;˘ Fax: 01952 290056 â&#x20AC;˘ sales@dragondisplay.co.uk

products

TECHNOLOGY NEC Display Solutions Europe NEC Display Solutions Europe has announced its partnership with the Royal Opera House (ROH) in London. As part of the Open Up project to promote more openness, availability and accessibility, NEC is providing several display and projection solutions to the venue in Covent Garden. NEC has worked alongside Intevi, the channel partner and solutions provider, and amongst the NEC solutions is a dramatic 28.5 sq m, 90 degree curved LED screen in the redeveloped entrance area, which opens out onto Covent Garden.

T. +44 (0)870 120 1160 E: infomail@nec-displays.com www.nec-display-solutions.com Twitter: NEC_Display_EU

Posiflex Technology Posiflex Technology has launched the Paragon TK-3200 Series and the Stellar TK-2100 Series - interactive kiosks that are aimed at shaping the future of retail and hospitality industries, enabling brands to interact with consumers in new and innovative ways.

Packed with functionality and convenience in an appealing design, the Paragon TK-3200 Series is a 32in interactive kiosk that is suited for retail stores, quick service and fast casual restaurants.

The Stellar TK-2100 Series is a 21.5in modular kiosk that can be configured in countertop or floor-standing style, providing modular deployment options in the same standardised family.

T. +886 2 2268 5577 E. sales@posiflex.com.tw www.posiflex.com

Futura Futura Retail Solutions is making GDPR compliance one step easier for users with a new data module designed for easy manipulation and editing of customer data en masse, ensuring speed and accuracy for customer data management. The new GDPR module extends the functionality of Futura4Data, a suite of time saving tools with a flexible user-friendly interface to import and export bulk data in Futura using files rather than manual data entry. With extensive data validation it helps to improve productivity and accuracy for otherwise time-consuming data entry and editing tasks.

T. +44 (0)1189 841 925 E: sales@futurauk.com www.futura4retail.co.uk Twitter: Futura_retail

NEC Display Solutions Europe The latest MultiSync V Series from NEC Display Solutions Europe is a family of huge display surfaces designed to provide the most natural and realistic image rendition. The new â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;pixel-freeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; displays are designed for digital signage in retail, entertainment, museums, meeting and conferencing, and industries such as manufacturing, engineering, leisure and hospitality, and many more. The V Series is available in three extraordinarily-large sizes: 75in, 86in and 98in. Users can take advantage of life-size digital canvases for all their advertising, presentation or signage needs, providing a crystal-clear and fully immersive experience.

T. +44 (0)870 120 1160 E: infomail@nec-displays.com www.nec-display-solutions.com Twitter: NEC_Display_EU

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products

SELECTION Forbo Flooring Systems Inspired by the colours and textures found within natural landscapes, Forbo Flooring Systems has re-launched its Marmoleum Marbled collection. With an independent Environmental Product Declaration confirming carbon neutral status in the production phase, Marmoleum (2.5mm) helps to minimise the embodied carbon of a building — with this latest collection designed to help users feel at one with nature. From lush countrysides filled with vivid flowers and emerald green trees, rocky grey mountain ranges breaking into the blue sky above and miles of golden coastlines, the UK is home to some of the most incredible landscapes, each one featuring a unique blend of colours and textures.

As such, Forbo’s new Marmoleum Marbled range is inspired by Mother Nature’s colour palette.

T. +44 (0)1773 744 121 E. info.flooring.uk@forbo.com www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/allurafusion Twitter: forboflooring

Polyflor The idea behind Polyflor’s new Wovon range was to provide an opportunity to explore new textures and patterns whilst still offering great functionality. The Wovon collection of interwoven vinyl tiles provides a unique and diverse selection of weave designs that come with extraordinary depth and sophisticated aesthetics to cater for projects that require contemporary styling. The new collection consists of three tile patterns — Serene, Optics and Structure — from which architects and designers can create a spectrum of stylish decorations with each one encouraging creative placements and resulting in striking visuals.

T. +44 (0)161 767 1111 E: info@polyflor.com www.polyflor.com Twitter: Polyflorltd

Mul-T-Lock Mul-T-Lock has launched its new CLIQ® Go access control system for small to medium sized retailers, allowing businesses to remotely manage security ‘on the go’. The new and advanced CLIQ® Go technology allows retailers to both grant and remove access permissions from anywhere via the CLIQ® Go app. This includes the ability to schedule individual access permissions for each key, as well as to provide time-limited access. If a key is lost, access can also be revoked using the CLIQ® Go app. Mul-T-Lock CLIQ® Go system is particularly useful for retailers that often suffer from a high staff turnover. Having the ability to revoke access permissions when a member of staff leaves allows retailers to uphold their security. The high security eCLIQ® cylinders are easy to configure, are suitable for all door types and can be easily fitted by a local locksmith.

T. +44 (0)1902 364 200 E. internalsales@mul-t-lock.co.uk www.mul-t-lock.co.uk Twitter: MulTLockUK

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Junckers Junckers’ new Twin Herringbone floor is an updated version of a much-loved classic — a solid wood floor with a pre-finished surface, easy to install and at a favourable price point. Twin Herringbone has an authentic pattern and lively, natural look.

Delivered with a hardwearing factory-finished surface ready to walk on as soon as it is installed, the new floor doesn’t have to be sanded, filled and treated after installation.

The new collection is available in solid ash, beech, oak and black oak, and is ideal for use with underfloor heating.

T. +44 (0)1376 534 700 E. enquiries@junckers.co.uk www.junckers.co.uk Twitter: junckersfloors

@retailfocus

StarscapeFibre Optic Lighting

Star panels in production for Christmas windows. Contact us for more information.

The all new Stormforce Forester 01462 672 000

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sales@assigns.co.uk

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www.assigns.co.uk

starscape.co.uk 01289 332900 info@starscape.co.uk

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graphics & wall decals

focus on graphics & wall decals

The possibilities are endless with the use of graphics, paints and wall decals in visual merchandising and store design. From in-store surfaces to window glass, this issue we bring you a variety of graphic and wall solutions that help create high-impact schemes.

Festive spirit Matt Wingfield Studio worked on Sweaty Betty’s Christmas windows, designing and manufacturing hand-printed and foiled plinths for all of the brand’s UK and US stores.

www.mattwingfieldstudio.com

Sparkle and dazzle Graphica Display worked on Harvey Nichols’ Christmas windows, designed to entice and capture the attention of customers by using a sparkly metallic colour palette and dazzling product displays.

Graphica Display produced a Christmas range of window vinyl for roll-out to the retailer’s estate. After several weeks of planning with the retailer’s design team, all graphics were cut and prepared and installed over the whole estate within a week.

www.graphicadisplay.co.uk

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graphics & wall decals

llusion of depth Prop Studios designed six window schemes across the UK and France for ‘UGG: 40 Years’. The design was a play on illusion and depth, while keeping a bold, graphical approach inspired by the UGG: 40 Years campaign imagery. The use of floating frames and vinyl created a sense of depth and play with form, increasing visual interest. A secondary window focused on the illusion of depth and glorification of products, using various sized frames and mirrors.

Sky graphics and reflective floating podiums created an illusion of products floating in the air.

www.propstudios.co.uk

All wrapped up For Anya Hindmarch’s Label campaign at the brand’s Sloane Street store, StudioXAG covered the glamorous chequered flooring in a monotonous carpet tile and wall wrapped the glossy black and mirrored surfaces in a grey matt finish. A total of 2,000m of vinyl were used to clad over the store’s chic monochrome and streamlined the space into a gradient sea of grey.

www.studioxag.com Photography: Alessio

Writing’s on the wall UNILIN’s ClicWall Deco provides a high-performance surface that can be personalised with a high-definition digital image, turning any wall into a true eye-catcher. Used successfully by retailers including Carrefour and hotels such as Marmotta Hotel and Auberge de la Ferme, ClicWall Deco can be used to create unique displays, shop-in-shop concepts and stylish feature walls that bring true individualism to any space. Splash-proof and scratch-resistant, all ClicWall Deco panels feature a patented Uniclic locking profile and easy slide strip for rapid installation. In a panel size of 600mm x 2,785mm, the 10mm thick panels are also available in FR (fire retardant) specification.

www.unilin.com

Different strokes Action paint is a new category of paint made in the UK, which is promoted as a ‘proactive paint system’ as it promotes creativity and experimentation by the fact that it is 100 per cent removable. It performs like a high-quality paint in that it is vibrant in colour, fast drying, is non-sag and has good flexibility and durability, yet can be removed completely. The Action Paint range currently consists of 12 colours, however Action Paint is compatible with more than 40,000 colours and can be made in gloss, satin and matt finishes.

In visual merchandising the paint opens up a world of creative possibilities. For window displays, the paint can be applied on the outside, and from repurposing old displays to adding temporary colour for a specific theme.

www.actionpaint.com

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directory

DIREcTORIES

www.retail-focus.co.uk/directory Visit the Retail Focus online directory at www.retail-focus.co.uk to discover a comprehensive list of the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading retail suppliers. Each listing contains indepth company information together with inspirational images, video footage and informative press material. You can also link through to company websites and connect with suppliers through Twitter and Facebook.

The Retail Supplier Directory is divided into a number of categories, such as design agencies, point-of-purchase, lighting, props and surfaces, to make the site easy to navigate.

To feature in the online directory, contact Terry Clark on 0845 6807405 or email terry@retailfocus.co

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directory

Aluminium Fittings

Specialist Stockist of Aluminium Extrusions and Mild Steel Fittings for the shopfitting industry.

Extensive stock held of: *Slotted uprights *Aluminium slatwall *Perimeter Sections *Corner sections *Design and bespoke service.

T: 01273 582241 E: sales@diasystems.co.uk W: www.diagroup.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/DesignsinAlumin

Aluminium Fittings

Bespoke Display

Bespoke Display

Design Consultancies

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.

Kendu is a European company with over 18 years of experience in pioneering in-store visual solutions for retailers. We design, manage and manufacture in-house to guarantee the best results. Visit our new office and showroom in Hackney Wick, London.

We are a global retail agency. Visual Thinking develops strategy, skills, hearts and minds to deliver retail excellence and transform brand performance.

T, 020 3260 3888 E. info@axiseurope.com W.www.axiseurope.com/retail S. www.twitter.com/AxisEuropePlc

Bespoke Display

T: +44 (0)20 373 55 258 E: info@kendu.com W: www.kendu.com S: www.twitter.com/kenduinstore

Bespoke Display

T, +44 (0) 1788 543 331 E. mail@visualthinking.co.uk W. www.visualthinking.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/shoptactics

Design Consultancies

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

Audio Visual Integration

Anna Valley looks to help guide clients with their audio visual decision making by offering high end impartial advice and help manoeuvre them through the current “minefield” of different technology and services available to them. This process then enables them to have a clear vision of what they are actually striving to achieve within the budget available to them and then provides a full range of services in the delivery of that vision.

Bespoke Display

Hello Flamingo is a creative company for the retail and event sector, specialising in window displays, in store solution, POP ups, project management, design, manufacture and installation for bespoke projects at our fully equipped manufacturing workshop.

Brochure Holders

Design Consultancies

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: +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

T: +44 (0)208 941 1000 E: nick.shaw@annavalley.co.uk W: www.annavalley.co.uk/avintegration

T: 01273 585768 E: info@helloflamingo.co.uk W: www.helloflamingo.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/helloflamingo1

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

JPMA is a worldwide leader in designing and manufacturing high-quality store fixtures and visual elements made of wood, metal and acrylic. We make everything all under the one roof and offer designs and finishes not available anywhere else in the industry.

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 +44 777 444 5784 E: benjamin@jpmaglobal.com W: www.jpmaglobal.com

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

T, 01494 774376 E. sales@b-loony.com W. www.b-loony.com

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directory

Display

Focused on our customer’s unique needs, with expert knowledge of the procurement market, and a firm grip on the entire visual merchandising supply chain, we are specialists in designing and delivering complex point of sale projects.

T +49 (0) 911 97 13 389 E: info-uk@barthelmess.com W: www.barthelmess.com

Display

Display - DIGITAL

FURNITURE

JPMA is a worldwide leader in designing and manufacturing high-quality store fixtures and visual elements made of wood, metal and acrylic. We make everything all under the one roof and offer designs and finishes not available anywhere else in the industry.

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 +44 777 444 5784 E: benjamin@jpmaglobal.com W: www.jpmaglobal.com

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

Display

Display

Display - DIGITAL

FURNITURE

Durable have been one of Europe’s largest business supplies manufacturers for almost 100 years.

We’re pioneers in developing and producing innovative solutions designed for retail from literature displays and POS to signage and display solutions.

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 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

T. 01202 897 071 E. customeroperations@durable-uk.com W. www.durable-uk.com S. www.twitter.com/durableuk

Display

We are ICON. We create and deliver engaging brand and live experiences, particularly in the retail sector.

T: +44 (0) 20 7593 5200 E: enquiries@icon-world.com W: www.icon-world.com S: www.twitter.com/ICON_HQ

Display

EPOS

GRAPHICS

Providing Scotland’s signage, exhibition displays, digitally printed wallpapers, LED flex faces, light boxes and window graphics. Located in the centre of Scotland we are ideally situated to cover your requirements throughout Scotland. We can offer huge savings with an excellent, professional and prompt service

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.

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: 0131 337 1237 E: info@specializedsigns.co.uk W: www.specializedsigns.co.uk FB: Specialized-Signs

T: 01797 320636 E: sales@ded.co.uk W: www.ded.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/dedltd

Display

Display

Impulse POP specialises in Point of Purchase display systems for the Retail sector.

We offer many years of experience in all aspects of retail design, with in house manufacture - including quick turnaround prototypes, or overseas manufacture, delivery, installation and retail merchandising.

Woodwood Group –Tx Frame UK are a specialist in tension fabric display systems and LED light boxes. We are able to deliver the highest quality service with a friendly but professional approach to ensure you receive the spectacular results you deserve.

Armourcoat is the world’s foremost supplier of polished plasters, sculptural effects and innovative surface finishes.

T, 01767 682756 E. sales@impulsepop.co.uk W.www.impulsepop.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/impulsepop

T, 01376 295 016 E. sales@txframe.co.uk W. www.txframe.co.uk

T. +44 (0)1732 460 668 E. sales@armourcoat.co.uk W. www.armourcoat.com S. www.twitter.com/Armourcoat

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Finishes

T: 0845 3730073 E: info@graphicadisplay.co.uk W:www.graphicadisplay.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/graphicatweet

GRAPHICS

We create bespoke tailored solutions for retail, interiors, exhibitions, museums and 3D and we know one size does not fit all. Our teams are always ready for the challenges, big or small.

T: 01923 800666 E: info@stylographics.co.uk W: www.stylographics.com S. www.twitter.com/hellostylo

directory

interactive displays

MANNEQUINS

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.

Rootstein Display Mannequins is a creative mannequin manufacturer and renovation specialist - delivering both ready-made and bespoke concepts for fashion retailers, globally.

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.

Durable have been one of Europe’s largest business supplies manufacturers for almost 100 years.

We’re pioneers in developing and producing innovative solutions designed for retail from literature displays and POS to signage and display solutions.

T: +44 (0) 1634 292 025 E: info@crystal-display.com W: www.crystal-display.com S. www.twitter.com/CrystalDisplays

T: +44 20 7381 1447 E: sales@adelrootstein.co.uk W: www.rootstein.com/ S. @rootstein_

T: 0161 477 8501 E: info@ipos-design.co.uk W: www.ipos-design.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/iposdesign

T. 01202 897 071 E. customeroperations@durable-uk.com W. www.durable-uk.com S. www.twitter.com/durableuk

LED LIGHTING

pop/pos

Addlux supplies high-tech LED lighting and display technologies for the retail sector, including the largest, thinnest and most cost-effective light sheet on the market today.

Fast turnaround of deliveries and prototypes at competitive prices.

Harrison Products provide one the largest ranges of POS and Display componentry in the UK. We are able to supply off the shelf and customised products to suit your project. We pride ourselves on our industry leading service and super quick delivery options.

T: 0333 800 1828 E: info@addlux.com W: www.addlux.com S. www.twitter.com/addlux

T: +44 (0)1451 830083 E: sales@harrisonproducts.net W harrisonproducts.net

Literature Display

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.

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

pop/pos

Durable have been one of Europe’s largest business supplies manufacturers for almost 100 years.

We’re pioneers in developing and producing innovative solutions designed for retail from literature displays and POS to signage and display solutions.

T. 01202 897 071 E. customeroperations@durable-uk.com W. www.durable-uk.com S. www.twitter.com/durableuk

pop/pos

We are ICON. We create and deliver engaging brand and live experiences, particularly in the retail sector.

T: +44 (0) 20 7593 5200 E: enquiries@icon-world.com W: www.icon-world.com S: www.twitter.com/ICON_HQ

signage

pop up

vm

Hello Flamingo is a creative company for the retail and event sector, specialising in window displays, in store solution, POP ups, project management, design, manufacture and installation for bespoke projects at our fully equipped manufacturing workshop.

GENESIS MANNEQUINS design and produce high-class and trend-lead shop window mannequins, busts and displays for the international fashion industry. Additionally we offer style, trend and product consultation as well as a comprehensive after-sales service.

T: 01273 585768 E: info@helloflamingo.co.uk W: www.helloflamingo.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/helloflamingo1

T: +49 (0) 5752 1803 0 E: info@genesis-display.com W: www.genesis-display.com S: www.twitter.com/GenesisDisplay

Retail Consultancy

vm

We are a global retail agency. Visual Thinking develops strategy, skills, hearts and minds to deliver retail excellence and transform brand performance.

Rootstein Display Mannequins is a creative mannequin manufacturer and renovation specialist - delivering both ready-made and bespoke concepts for fashion retailers, globally.

T, +44 (0) 1788 543 331 E. mail@visualthinking.co.uk W. www.visualthinking.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/shoptactics

T: +44 20 7381 1447 E: sales@adelrootstein.co.uk W: www.rootstein.com/ S. @rootstein_

slatwall

Specialist Stockist of Aluminium Extrusions and Mild Steel Fittings for the shopfitting industry.

Extensive stock held of: *Slotted uprights *Aluminium slatwall *Perimeter Sections *Corner sections *Design and bespoke service.

T: 01273 582241 E: sales@diasystems.co.uk W: www.diagroup.co.uk S. www.twitter.com/DesignsinAlumin

VM TOOLS AND TRAINING

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

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Q&A

Nathan Hicks Nathan Hicks is living his dream. Starting out in visual merchandising more than 30 years ago, he has worked for the likes of Selfridges, Matchesfashion.com and Joseph before recently joining T.M.Lewin as head of visual communication. Here, Hicks reflects on his time at Joseph, shares his plans for his new role and considers possible trends for the year ahead.

RF. You’ve recently joined T.M.Lewin as head of visual communication. What drew you to this brand?

NH. There were many factors for joining T.M.Lewin — the size/scale of the business, a different product type, the ambition of the brand and team, and also the opportunity to channel all my experience into a brand that wants to change direction. The fact that I was joining at the start of this new journey [meant] I could really impact and drive a positive change.

RF. What plans do you have in your new role?

NH. To help define and establish a creative language; a handwriting to elevate the product and raise the standard of all visual aspects, and ultimately how the brand is positioned.

RF. You received numerous awards for your work at Joseph Fashion.

What did you enjoy about being part of this brand?

NH. The creative autonomy that I held at Joseph gave me the freedom to experiment in so many ways. Each scheme had to be better than the last one, constantly pushing for perfection and wanting to create something truly unique and unexpected.

RF. What was your most memorable display?

RF. What festive schemes have caught your eye this year?

NH. Bergdorfs in NYC always deliver and this year was no exception.

Their attention to detail is impeccable. And they always get the right balance of ‘prop vs product’, which I believe is fundamental in any display. You have to get this right and so many brands lose sight of this basic rule. Also Annabel’s of Mayfair Christmas Tree façade was fabulous!

RF. What trends do you see emerging in 2019?

NH. You can feel there is a real unrest growing across the retail sector with the daily news of so many retailers in trouble, which then leads to negativity and over caution in creative licence.

[It’s] ironic as the brands that do embrace change are proving to be the most successful. So for me, I hope that the trends that will emerge in 2019 are creativity, emotional connection, wit and artistry.

RF. Are there any trends you wish would disappear?

NH. Safe, bland, formulaic…

NH. I have so many to choose from but probably my most memorable installation was the ‘Tunnel of Lace’ which for me was the first time I really creatively pushed the boundaries of how a prop can translate into an unconventional space. It was also my first ever interactive display, where the consumer could participate in the experience of the installation from the inside out. Also, all the elements from the prop, product, mannequins, styling etc seemed to fit together perfectly.

RF. You often collaborate with outside creative agencies. Why is this so important to you?

NH. Working for Joseph meant there was a real juxtaposition between the strict philosophy of working in a single brand and then the contrast of all the multibrand designers. It was then even more relevant to find the right creative partners that fit with Joseph’s aesthetic and could bring the right tone of voice to collaborate with on so many varied projects RF. How do you keep the creative juices flowing?

NH. Research, Research, Research! I literally spend countless hours scanning all forms of inspiration, from editorial publications, seasonal shows, social media platforms and art/cultural references to try and keep ahead of the game.

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Joseph, Tunnel of Lace window

h a r l e quin - d e sig n . c o m