Retail Focus - January 2014

‘Smoke’ by Armourcoat Sculptural From a range of original seamless 3D wall surface designs www.sculptural.armourcoat.com

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Features Regulars Meat & greet

MEATliquor has opened its first restaurant outside of London in Brighton, with an interior covered in fantastical illustrations and obscure seaside personas.

61 Multisensory design

68 Focus on: Signs & Graphics

32

Surface Design Show preview

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Leader

8

37

23-30 P roject Focus

Debenhams : Fortnum & Mason : MEATliquor

Diary

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Opinion

Top of the POPS

High street stores are not dead, they just need to expand their offering and embrace new technolgies, argues Thomas Arenz of Samsung Semiconductor Europe.

Karl McKeever

65-67 Products

11-14 N ews

16-17 W indow shopping Festive window displays from around the globe part two.

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Retail in the USA is taking off again, which should give everyone here renewed hope for 2014, says Karl.

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VM Focus supplement

Q&A

This month, Michael Sheridan of design consultancy Sheridan&Co talks emerging trends and new year’s resolutions.

Products and services for the retail industry.

.

www.retail-focus.co.uk

Do you have a credit licence? Here’s what you need to do now. r e t s i g 1. Re online

2. Make payment

3. Print your receipt.

Important changes to the licensing of consumer credit are on the way.

If you offer credit to your customers, you need to act now.

On 1 April 2014, the Financial Conduct Authority will take over regulation of consumer credit from the Office of Fair Trading (OFT). On that date all existing licences issued by the OFT will expire. Before then you will need to register for ‘Interim Permission’ if you wish to continue offering credit legally.

It takes minutes to register – simply go to fca.org.uk/clicked.

To continue offering credit, act now.

Have you clicked yet?

Register now at fca.org.uk/clicked

36396_17_FCA_PostIts_297x210_RetailFocus.indd 1

17/12/2013 09:51

leader

January ‘14

Happy New Year and a warm welcome to our first issue of 2014. Who else watched the spectacular firework display in London on New Year’s Eve? For the first time, people in the city were able to see, smell, hear and even taste the fireworks courtesy of ‘architectural foodsmiths’ Bompas & Parr (together with Vodafone and the Mayor of London).

In the words of Sam Bompas, in these days of social media, everyone is a journalist and so you need to give them compelling stories. Creating multisensory brand experiences, he says, are a powerful tool to do this. This month, we look at how enhancing a retail space with sounds, scents, flavours and textures can influence attitudes, emotion and behaviour, and drive brand loyalty (pages 61-62).

With a new year comes a new season of shows and events. In February, the annual Surface Design Show returns to London’s Business Design Centre with some of the latest inspiring interior and exterior surface solutions. To find out what you can expect from the three-day event, read our show preview (pages 32-34).

Also this month, we bring you the first of our biannual VM Focus supplements.

Here, visual merchandising and display professionals share their thoughts on possible trends in the year ahead, and VM consultant and university academic Jonathan Baker sets out his 10 commandments for 2014. We also talk to Surrey-based artist and illustrator, Kerry Lemon.

Wishing you a happy and prosperous 2014!

Gemma Balmford Editor

Editor

Display Sales

Gemma Balmford e. gemma@retailfocus.co t. +33 (0)7 61 03 21 33

Lee Cullumbine e. lee@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405 f. +44 (0)871 528 8000

Production & Web

Subscriptions

Terry Clark e. terry@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405

For subscription enquiries please email:

Get more from Retail Focus online!

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Search Retail Focus

Retail Focus is published 12 times a year by Retail Focus Promotions Ltd, Yeomans, Bassetts Lane, Woodham Walter, Maldon, Essex, CM9 6RZ. No part of Retail Focus may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval

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opinions expressed in Retail Focus are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publisher.

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7

diary

Discover Heal’s, London 3-16 February 2014 Discover: The Heal’s Modern Craft Market celebrates the best in British contemporary design and craftsmanship. The event will be made up of pieces created by selected independent designers and a collective of RCA graduates, as well as a chosen group of makers and artisans recognised by Crafts Council and Contemporary Applied Arts. In keeping with the craft production theme, Swedish sculptural design duo, Soderlund Davidson will design and install a 15m-long conveyor belt in the Heal’s Tottenham Court Road shop window. A series of demonstrations and workshops will be held in store throughout the event.

Heals_Furniture www.heals.co.uk

In the Making Design Museum, London 22 January - 4 May 2014

Surface Design Show EuroShop Business Design Centre, London Dusseldorf, Germany 4-6 February 2014 16-20 February 2014

This exhibition, curated for the Design Museum by Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby, captures more than 20 objects mid-manufacture. Varying from the £2 coin to a cricket bat, a surprising range of objects will be exhibited in an unfinished state, celebrating the intriguing beauty of the production process.

This show is dedicated to architects, interior designers and specifiers looking for innovative surface solutions for the built environment. Highlights include the Surface Design Awards presentation, the PechaKucha evening, the Mix Trend Wall and the packed seminar programme, branded Fringe Thinking.

Occuring once every three years, EuroShop is a world leading retail trade fair. The event takes place over five days in Dusseldforf and is divided into four key sections - EuroCIS, EuroConcept, EuroExpo and EuroSales - covering everything from technology and lighting to shopfitting and POS marketing.

DesignMuseum www.designmuseum.org

surfacethinking www.surfacedesignshow.com

EuroShop www.euroshop-tradefair.com

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19-22 JANUARY 2014

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news

Topps Tiles trials new smaller high street store format Topps Tiles is launching a new store model in order to bring the best of its product range to the high street. Called Topps Tiles Boutique, the new smaller high street format is designed to provide a more intimate shopping experience, combining practical inspiration with expert know-how.

The store journey revolves around a large consultation table where customers can access specialist design advice from trained teams. A digital visualiser enables customers to view different tiles in real room sets or simply assemble tile samples to assess the overall look.

Customers can also purchase individual samples from the selected product displays and make purchases in the same way as in existing stores.

Brian Linnington, commercial director at Topps Tiles, comments: ‘We wanted to achieve a modern and high quality environment to showcase our amazing products. Our new store features industrial steel and distressed wood, creating a simple but chic look and feel, which also

demonstrates to our customers that we really understand interior design.’

Matt Williams, CEO at Topps Tiles, adds: ‘The Boutique concept was born out of our desire to bring the Topps Tiles brand to more people, making us convenient to wider groups of customers. While there remain many parts of the country with the potential for Topps Tiles to expand into, availability of suitable sites can constrain our growth. To address this we were keen to develop a new smaller store format

we could open in high street locations.

The reduction in floor space has meant we have had to focus on what’s really important to our customers; offering inspiring collections of the very best quality tiles and exceptional levels of service.’

The first of three trial stores opened in Walton-on-Thames on Friday 10 January, followed by Clapham and a third site, which is yet to be confirmed. If successful, Topps Tiles intends to extend the concept further.

Online retailers plan to expand into physical stores in 2014 A new study by Royal Mail has revealed that one in six UK SME e-retailers are planning to combine clicks with bricks in 2014 as online competition for sales grows. The findings show that 40 per cent of the UK’s SME online retailers are planning to start trading from new channels in the next 12 months to increase sales.

Royal Mail’s annual tracker study into the expectations and challenges facing UK SME online retailers revealed more than half (56 per cent) are confident sales will increase in 2014.

However, with the number of new market entrants meaning online competition is increasing, this figure is down on the 64 per cent of UK SME online retailers who were confident of growing sales a year ago.

The research also found that pricing more competitively has overtaken increasing the range of goods available as the top priority for increasing customer satisfaction.

Nick Landon, managing director of Royal Mail Parcels, comments: ‘Royal Mail’s annual tracker study of UK SME online retailers shows that while the majority expect to increase sales, competition is more intense than it was last year. UK SME online retailers are thinking carefully about how they can develop their businesses during 2014. They are concentrating on exploiting as many channels to market as possible, adding space in physical premises and online marketplace listings to complement their existing web channel.’

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news

In brief...

The Market Creative has devised the brand identity and marketing campaign to launch Bohen, a new consumer retail concept for buying fitted kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms backed by UK builders and plumbers merchants group, Grafton GB. Following extensive research into how consumers shop the category, The Market Creative devised the name, identity and proposition for the new brand, which is aimed at high-income women aged over 45.

John Lewis has announced plans to open a 4,180 sq m ‘at home’ store in Horsham in autumn 2015. The shop, adjoining Waitrose in the new West End development owned by Westrock and the British Airways Pension Fund, will be the third co-located site for a John Lewis ‘at home’ and Waitrose supermarket. The first combined scheme opened in Ipswich in October 2012 and plans for a second co-location in Basingstoke were announced in 2013.

British fashion brand Hobbs will open a second Swedish outlet in MOOD Stockholm in March 2014. MOOD Stockholm is owned by AMF Fastigheter and opened in March 2012.

UK fashion chain Warehouse has taken a new lease on a 280 sq m store on London’s Oxford Street. Martin Thomas, head of Jones Lang LaSalle’s Central London Retail Lease Advisory comments: ‘This new letting shows the continued lure that Oxford Street has for big name UK retailers. We are noticing a continuing spike in demand from international retailers as well as domestic retailers like Warehouse.’

Burberry opens first standalone beauty store British luxury fashion house Burberry has launched a new retail concept that enables customers to explore the connections between make-up, fragrance and accessories through personalised physical and digital experiences. The Burberry Beauty Box in London’s Covent Garden builds on recent innovations that highlight the relationship between the brand’s fashion and beauty worlds.

The store features the full Burberry Beauty collection of make-up and fragrance, as well as limited-edition beauty products and an exclusive selection of bags.

Continuing the brand’s integration of digital technology into its retail environments, the space features a custom-built digital screen in the shape of the iconic Burberry check, showcasing bespoke content on the exterior facade.

Inside the store, a five metre ‘digital chandelier’ showcases monthly beauty content over multiple screens, bringing new looks and products to life. The Burberry Beauty Box is also the brand’s first till-free retail environment, with payments taken using a mobile point-ofsale system on iPads and iPhones, and digital receipts available.

The store also offers a Beauty Refresh service and one-to-one appointments, as well as a digital runway nail bar, which offers a playful virtual experience for trying on the latest Burberry runway nail shades.

Burberry chief creative officer, Christopher Bailey, comments: ‘The Burberry Beauty Box brings together our fashion and beauty worlds, merging physical and digital experiences that allow people to explore and combine Burberry make-up, fragrance and accessories in new, playful and exciting ways.’

Lee Broom designs new bar at Selfridges Product and interior designer, Lee Broom has designed a new bar for Selfridges London to celebrate the first anniversary of the Men’s Shoe Galleries. Operated by Mark Hix, the new bar opened in December 2013 and has a flexible design so that it can be relocated to different areas of the department store.

The collection of bespoke furniture comprises a sideboard, hostess trolley and a tall boy drawer set, each hand crafted using walnut wood with polished and brushed brass accents.

Called Mark’s Bar, the concept is

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inspired by 1960s America - when entertaining at home was growing in popularity - and the silhouettes and materials of mid-century design. The bar recreates the sense of theatre from that era, producing a heightened version of home entertaining.

To tie the bar design together and help create a domestic atmosphere, Broom has added an oversized circular mirror using the same wood and brass finishes. A matching long wooden table and stools accompany the bar.

news

John Lewis trials new shopping technology Department store chain John Lewis trialled a number of new in-store technologies over the Christmas period, with a view to rolling them out if successful.

The John Lewis flagship store on London’s Oxford Street was fully mapped by Google Street View, allowing customers to navigate the space. Designed by Ideal Insight, the detailed virtual tour showcased the magic and theatre of the seven-floor department store at Christmas, and if successful, could be rolled out to other branches in the next two years.

In addition, John Lewis stores in Cheadle and Brent Cross, as well as Peter Jones on London’s Sloane Square trialled in-store transactional tablets, which enabled customers to skip the queues at till banks. The tablets were fully linked to the shop’s till systems, allowing customers to complete their purchase in the shop or arrange home delivery.

The Peter Jones and Watford shops are also involved in the final development of a trial of ChargeBox, a free-to-use mobile phone charging station that provides 30 minutes of power for mobile phones, tablets and other devices. Wall-mounted units have been installed in both the audio and TV departments, and free-standing units are located next to the Place to Eat in both

shops. If successful it is hoped ChargeBox will be installed in other John Lewis shops in summer 2014.

Simon Russell, director retail operations development at John Lewis, comments: ‘We intend to keep investing and innovating in our shops so that they remain compelling and hassle-free places for customers, offering multiple reasons to visit them. Partly this will see us use an increasing amount of technology to make shopping easier and offer more “in shop help”. But this is also about offering inspiring experiences, such as our recent catering partnership with Scandinavian café brand, Joe & the Juice.’

In brief...

Montreux Jazz Café has collaborated with Portland Design and SSP to bring its new café concept to the Gare de Lyon in Paris. The team used the Montreux Jazz Café concept at Harrods, which opened in September 2012, as the basis for the Paris café, while making many ‘traveller friendly’ design adaptations.

Hertz remodels London flagship store Car rental company The Hertz Corporation has remodelled its Marble Arch store in London to enhance the in-store customer experience. The new-look, open plan showroom, designed in collaboration with Toronto-based Jackman Reinvents, features a concierge style service, Hertz Supercar display, complementary internet access and self-service kiosks.

A Recharge Zone allows customers to charge their mobile phones and computer devices while a Discovery Zone enables them to learn about what’s on in London and the surrounding area using touch screens.

The branch also features a Kids Zone with computer-based games and drawing packages. Meanwhile, a video wall featuring rotating scenes of London

has been introduced to enhance the in-store experience for tourists and residents alike.

In line with the company’s sustainability program, the London Marble Arch branch features energy efficient lighting and equipment, water saving fixtures, recycling of general and automotive wastes, as well as the use of recycled content for building materials and finishes. The branch also offers an ‘on demand’ service that enables low emission, fuel efficient cars to be booked by the hour.

In the UK, new brand updates are planned at additional airports and neighbourhood locations throughout 2014, including those at Heathrow, Aberdeen and Newcastle airports.

Bedford-based architects, engineers and development consultants Woods Hardwick have received planning approval for a new Tesco Eco Store in Newmarket, Suffolk.

The store comprises a sales area of 6,500 sq m and will feature a mezzaninelevel customer cafe and staff office accommodation. The new store has been designed from the outset to have a low environmental impact.

Westfield has announced it will start construction works on the £260m Bradford Broadway development and has completed the sale of its interest to pan European retail real estate investment manager Meyer Bergman. The 52,955 sq m shopping centre will feature a 9,847 sq m Debenhams department store and a 5,852 sq m Marks & Spencer as anchor retailers, along with 70 additional shops, restaurants and cafes. The centre is expected to open in time for the Christmas shopping period 2015.

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news

Forster Inc. designs new children’s footwear store

Station retail sales continue to outshine high street Retail sales at Britain’s biggest and busiest railway stations continue to outperform the high street, according to figures from Network Rail.

Station retail sales results from July to September 2013 show a 4.74 per cent growth in like-for-like sales compared to the same period the previous year. High street sales, reported by the British Retail Consortium, grew by 1.5 per cent over the same period.

The figures were compiled from the results of retailers operating from more than 53,883 sq m of retail space (520 units/ shops) at 16 of Britain’s biggest and busiest stations owned and operated by Network Rail.

Top performing stations include Kings Cross (+28.4 per cent), followed by Edinburgh Waverley (+13.1 per cent) and Manchester Piccadilly (+13.1 per cent)

compared to the same period last year.

Network Rail’s retail commercial director, Hamish Kiernan, comments: ‘These latest figures show that stations have become great trading environments for retailers, thanks to the growing numbers of people who choose to travel by rail and Network Rail’s programme of investment to create destination stations. The huge growth in sales at King’s Cross, where the new western concourse has given people a much wider choice of food, drink and retail brands, shows that investment in bigger, better stations can benefit passengers, businesses and the wider public. We will continue to work with retailers to help them grow their business as we look to take advantage of further exciting developments at our stations in 2014.’

allen international designs university branch for Bank of Ireland London-based consultancy allen international has designed a new branch for Bank of Ireland at Dublin City University.

Opened in December 2013, the new design creates a bold retail statement, presenting the offer in a simple yet dynamic way.

The branch features a bi-folding glass facade that, once fully opened, enables students and customers to ‘hang out’ inside the space, making it feel more like a student union chill-out area. A strong architectural gateway wall runs through the middle of the space allowing students and faculty staff to investigate and interact with the bank’s digital offerings. The ‘social

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media gateway’ features a mixture of key product and channel messages, including hero sports sponsorships, a digital notice board and competitions. In addition, touch

Design consultancy Forster Inc. has created an urban store design for new children’s shoe brand, Ryker Kids. The shop, in East Finchley, London has a clean graphic, directional interior that provides a strong background for the brightly coloured range of kids shoes and accessories.

‘The client was looking for an interior that would be distinctive and stand the test of time,’ says a spokesperson for Forster Inc. A bright yellow bungee cord, inspired both by an architects impression and a child’s drawing of a house, acts as a key focal point, reducing the high ceiling proportions of the space in a strong and dynamic form.

Bespoke hexagonal storage units and shelves have been installed along the perimeter walls to display footwear and accessories, while vibrant coloured bean bags offer a fun and flexible seating solution.

Forster Inc. worked closely with graphic designer, Mr Gresty to create the logo, signage, stickers and t-shirt designs. The result is an integrated retail environment that appeals to adults and children alike.

screens introduce customers to products and service solutions that they can then explore at their own pace and leisure.

As students and customers step through the gateway wall, they’re met with online booths, self-service ATMs and meeting rooms, all helping to create a relaxed environment in which to talk with Bank of Ireland advisors.

‘The overall look and feel of the design has purposely been stripped back and is appropriate for the student and faculty campus staff,’ says a spokesperson for allen international. ‘A simple palette of polished concrete and bleached wood as well as a simple clean graphic style create a warm and relaxed environment which all work to support a more contemporary and relevant style that Bank of Ireland wish to extend beyond the campus.’

visual merchandising

Window Bergdorf Goodman The Bergdorf Goodman windows on Fifth Avenue, New York imagined a variety of time-honored holidays cast in a frozen landscape.

The Holidays on Ice windows celebrated Arbor Day, the Fourth of July, April Fool’s Day, Valentine’s Day and Halloween (pictured), while the smaller windows continued the theme with Thanksgiving, Mardi Gras, New Year’s Eve and Groundhog Day. Photography: Ricky Zehavi

shopping Festive window displays from around the globe - part two

Loewe The theme for the Loewe holiday collection was inspired by revisiting the archives and the high-octane glamour introduced by José Pérez de Rozas, who served as the brand’s creative director for 33 years from 1945. ‘The element that we loved the most was his love to feature animal sculptures in the masterpieces, usually covered with glittering studs,’ says Chameleon Visual, who designed and produced the 2013 Christmas windows.

Photography: Loewe

De Bijenkorf The 2013 holiday window scheme at Amsterdam department store, De Bijenkorf unfolded into a series of theatrical window narratives that took customers on a journey through an enchanted mystery forest, inhabited by magical creatures. Inspired by paper toy theatres of the Victorian era, the windows were designed as multilayered stage sets of 2D and 3D elements that showcased De Bijenkorf’s holiday collection. The scheme was created in collaboration with design studio, UXUS.

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visual merchandising

w

Coast Occasionwear retailer, Coast collaborated with Millington Associates to create a sleek, faceted design for its Christmas window roll-out. The geometric shapes formed a striking backdrop to the women’s party wear.

Photography: Austin Hutton

Ted Baker It seems every Christmas the Ted Baker window scheme features some madcap character and 2013 was no different.

The brand collaborated with Prop Studios to create a cheeky mechanical penguin complete with jetpack and moving tongue animatronics.

Barneys New York department store, Barneys collaborated with singer/ songwriter Shawn ‘Jay Z’ Carter for its ‘A New York Holiday’ Christmas window scheme. The Madison Avenue windows featured moving content that demonstrated how light and shadow are experienced in New York City, incorporating the theme colours of black, white and gold. A highlight was the ‘floating city’, featuring twinkling stars in a night sky and a slow-moving sunrise. Barneys used a range of Christie display technology for the Christmas 2013 window installations.

Photography: Barneys New York

Calvin Klein Calvin Klein opted for the imagery of icebergs and glaciers to establish a fresh feeling across its Christmas windows.

The composition of the windows drew a clear focus to the centre where the product was neatly pressed between layers of perspex. ‘The suspension of garments in between these perspex panels captures and communicates the theme of a frozen state whilst enhancing the materials of the garment,’ explains a spokesperson for StudioXAG, which worked with Calvin Klein on the scheme.

Photography: StudioXAG

Smythson For the Christmas 2013 window displays at Smythson, Chameleon Visual played around with the magic theme and worked it into its own version of a box of tricks. Each window featured a trick using Smythson product and packaging. The displays were installed in Smythson boutiques worldwide.

Photography: Melvyn Vincent

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POP

p o t POPS e h t f o

Company: Kesslers International

Client: L’Oreal

Display title: Giorgio Armani Si launch

Sector: Fragrances

Locations: Stores nationwide

The brief: Si is the new classic feminine fragrance from Italian fashion house, Giorgio Armani.

For the launch, Kesslers International was tasked with translating the strong advertising campaigns, supported by award-winning actress Cate Blanchett, into 3D marketing.

The result: The point-of-purchase units, including counter displays and freestanding units, were designed, engineered and produced in a range of materials, specially selected to reflect the prestigious brand positioning and to suit a range of UK outlets, from department stores, Boots and leading independents. In particular, the Si logo was given three-dimensional presentation by striking black acrylic, supporting the strong visual of Cate Blanchett, and creating a dramatic podium for the product tester. The units have been designed to last in stores for a year.

www.kesslers.com

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Q&A column

Karl McKeever revitalise the brand. The concept makes great use of natural wood and eco accents, which include recycled glass objects, tying into the brand’s ethical values. The store is quietly understated and refined, and appeals to a subtly stylish consumer.

European in design look but with an American service style, it’s a superb combination.

Be inspired in 2014 I have spent a good deal of last year’s column inches in Retail Focus looking back over Visual Thinking’s 20 years in business so far. I have focussed primarily on the elements which helped the stores that were there when we started to still be there now. So I think it’s now time to look forward to 2014 and beyond.

I am sure that many retailers will have learnt a lot of lessons over the past 12 months, and will now be refreshed and ready for the coming year’s challenges. But, where will they find their ideas and inspiration in 2014? I think that I’m lucky in this respect, as I travel extensively on business and always see the best and worst of the world’s retail offer. As well as absorbing different country and cultural traits, new methods and ideas, and of course many inspiring retail concepts, nothing fires me up more than the awe-inspiring VM craftsmanship of the brightest brand stores in New York.

I have been to New York many times recently and have not always been impressed by what’s on offer. In recent years the city was starved of retail innovation as brands adopted strategies of survival rather than growth. Fortunately, this dark period in US retailing seems to be drawing to a close. Brands are reporting more positive performance and, correspondingly, there are more signs of change, newness and optimism evident in store.

Here are five of the best new retail environment and VM concepts that have been implemented in recent months: Barney’s, Madison Avenue The first is Barney’s of Madison Avenue, which has a new beauty hall and day spa concept. This updates the established basement beauty area with a new design look, making it the ultimate go-to beauty and fragrance emporium in New York. Signature white marble and three-dimensional plaster and lighting effects are used to create the look, giving a minimal but uber luxurious effect. With a series of complementary exclusive designer fragrance rooms to the main selling space, the concept exudes quality.

Eileen Fisher, Time Warner Building, Columbus Circle Eileen Fisher has a new concept store that has been launched to Karl McKeever is creative director of visual merchandising and brand delivery consultancy Visual Thinking.

Email Karl at karl@retailfocus.co www.visualthinking.co.uk

Coach, Fifth Avenue Coach’s new global store design concept has been implemented here in the brand’s Broadway store. The design is sophisticated and luxurious, and uses quality materials and finishes. Integrated digital media solutions have been installed, including an impressive media screen at the store entrance. The New York flagship store uses versatile fixturing to accommodate the brand’s signature luggage collections and stylish apparel offer, which continues to grow each year. The concept appropriately updates Coach’s brand look and appeal for a new generation of shoppers and is already being rolled out worldwide.

ABC Carpet and Home, Broadway ABC has recently introduced a new kitchen and dining basement, which is a total tabletop emporium with artisan and luxury kitchen and dining brands. This occupies the former Conran Shop space (short lived, and now closed as part of the brand’s recent exit from North America). It’s presented as only ABC knows how - this being the chicest of shabby! The result is a totally awesome retail environment-cum-gallery space. The store houses great brands and exhibits exceptional product presentation. It’s relaxed, informal and ‘placed’ at the same time. This is one of the most inspirational places for kitchen and dining on the planet.

Tiffany’s, Soho As would be expected from one of the world’s most famously opulent jewellery stores, everything is so beautifully done. A series of themed rooms have been created within the overall space, each with its own unique interior design. Quality materials and finishes throughout reflect the brand’s colours and style. The must-see here is the customer lounge, which is just like a gentleman’s club – it’s all extremely well done, making the store feel both comfortable and discretely private.

New York has a reputation for being a nucleus of innovation and inspiration, and probably always will be. It’s also a great indicator of what the big brands are currently thinking. For me, each of the above stores offer great retail concepts and provide ‘best in class’ customer experiences. In one of the world’s most expensive and busy retail locations, the success (and failure) of any new retail or VM concept is quickly established, and in that sense it’s a brilliant testing ground to hot house and perfect ideas for further rollout to other markets. It’s great to see that retail in the USA is taking off again. As the world’s biggest retail economy, that should give everyone renewed hope on this side of the pond for 2014 too.

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26.11.13 09:34

project focus

Debenhams Oxford Street, London December 2013 was a momentous month for Debenhams. As well as celebrating its 200th anniversary, the retailer completed the £25 million modernisation of its flagship store on London’s Oxford Street. To mark the launch, the department store hosted a range of events, including a Fabulous Fortnight of special activity and a Fashion Showcase.

At the announcement of the refurbishment in early 2013, Debenhams’ marketing director, Richard Cristofoli said: ‘Our vision is to create a branded environment that redefines Debenhams in the West End and beyond, representing a vibrant and relevant concept for the future’.

As part of the extensive works, the executive offices - which were housed above the Oxford Street store - have been relocated to another building, allowing Debenhams to open an additional trading floor. Now spread over seven levels, the store houses more Designer departments, three new restaurants and the retailer’s biggest ever shoe hall and lingerie department. Flooring throughout the building has been replaced as well as the ceilings, and the walkways have been made 20 per cent wider, making it easier and more enjoyable for customers to browse and shop.

One of the highlights of the transformation is the complete makeover of the beauty hall on the ground floor, which is now home to the largest Benefit concession in the West End as well as Dior’s international flagship build - one of only four in the UK. Other brands taking space include Chanel, Clinique, Clarins and Estee Lauder.

The ground floor is also home to a new jewellery and accessories department, which according to Debenhams, has been built to underpin it’s position as the nation’s number one retailer of handbags.

‘The ground floor arrival delivers on Debenhams’ promise

Photography: Andy Townsend

Design: Dalziel & Pow Opening date: December 2013 Store size: 17,850 sq m

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project focus

of a bright and fresh future, with a space appropriate to showcase the vibrant multi-branded offer and replacing tired, heavy and dark fixturing,’ says a spokesperson for Dalziel & Pow, which worked with Debenhams on the redesign. ‘The architecture is a framework for the individual brands and collections, a neutral but striking textural white box with a few ownable and distinctive details.’

Menswear, which was previously located on the lower ground floor, has been elevated to the first floor in a new fresh, spacious environment while womenswear occupies the second and third floors. The third floor also has a dedicated space for special occasions, including a bridal area and a personal stylist suite.

‘In the new concept, the [fashion] brands have been elevated in a manner which is unrecognisable from the previous approach,’ says the spokesperson for Dalziel & Pow. ‘Designers are showcased, ranges are highlighted and space is allocated for directional and curated range showcases that would otherwise be crammed with merchandise and product lines.’

Homeware is now located on the fourth floor while the fifth floor is dedicated to families, with an extensive range of childrenswear and toys alongside a large family-focused restaurant.

With menswear in its new home on the first floor, the basement now houses an intimate lingerie department and shoe hall as well as a Prosecco bar and bistro.

Fully equipped in-store terminals are positioned throughout the building, allowing customers to shop additional ranges online. ‘Through this seamless approach,’ says the Dalziel & Pow spokesperson, ‘the customer is supported in every corner of the store, at every touch point and across every channel.’

The relaunch of the flagship store will culminate with a new exterior that uses an over-cladding system designed by artist and sculptor, Ned Kahn in conjunction with Archial Architects. The ‘Kinetic Facade’, which is due to be unveiled in early 2014, features 180,000 individual tiles which will move in response to the wind.

Speaking last summer, Cristofoli said: ‘The new store front will make Debenhams a retail beacon on Oxford Street. The entire building will be covered in thousands of suspended aluminium panels that will move and reflect light to create a fluid effect.’

The store, which remained open during the refurbishment, will now act as a model for future global expansion and a showcase for the best of Debenhams in the UK.

Photography: Andy Townsend

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The Final Countdown To join us in Düsseldorf

GDP Designs, Manufactures and Installs Beautiful Retail Environments, Display Furniture, Seasonal and Permanent VM Equipment.

In short . . .

We are pleased to offer free entry tickets and hotel accommodation to the first people responding to this ad.

But hurry, numbers are limited.

You will find us on Stand E19 in Hall 12 Not going to the show?

Then contact us now on: +44 1582 742768 . . . or Email us on: info@gdprojects.eu Dunstable - Chicago - Shanghai - Cape Town - Sofia

project focus

Fortnum + Mason St Pancras International, London Design: Universal Design Studio Opening date: November 2013 Store size: 200 sq m

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More than 300 years after it first opened in London’s Piccadilly, Fortnum & Mason has expanded with a second store in the UK, at St Pancras International. The 200 sq m space, which is located in the former Eurostar ticket hall, combines a well-stocked shop with a tea salon and is designed to blend old and new, useful and decorative.

For the retail offer, Fortnum & Mason together with Universal Design Studio, have created a modern take on the traditional food emporium to showcase a product range themed around the three main components of the tea ceremony; tea, biscuits and jam.

Housed under Grade 1 listed brick arches, the store strikes a balance between the historical architectural details and the needs of the modern traveler. Retail areas fill the space under the arches while further into the store, customers are met by large enamelfronted counters with marble skirtings and copper shelves. Tall oak lean-to shelves that span the length of the room are used to display merchandise and accentuate the height of the space, and a bespoke copper-fronted tea counter with drawers containing various types of tea invite customers to try before they buy.

The most remarkable interior design element, however, is the fully working but deconstructed clock that hangs three metres above customers’ heads. Created in collaboration with Smith of Derby - the makers of the original St Pancras station clock - the timepiece nods to the original Fortnum & Mason clock in Piccadilly and stretches half the length of the store to reveal its inner workings.

The tea salon, towards the back of the space, is evocative of rail travel with wood paneling, luggage racks and utility hooks.

Here, leather banquette seating with tan bolster cushions sit opposite Wegner elbow chairs upholstered in Kvadrat fabric, providing an escape to the throng of the station during the day.

Adjacent to the salon stand bespoke cabinets inspired by museum cabinetry. The units have a welded steel frame and marble base, and are used to showcase key products and hampers as well as provide a discreet screen between the retail and hospitality areas.

Ahead of the opening, Ewan Venters, chief executive of Fortnum & Mason, said: ‘The transformation of King’s Cross from insalubrious corner of London into international gateway and home to some of the capital’s most creative businesses and organisations is impressive. This makes St Pancras the ideal spot for our new store, allowing us to introduce a whole new group of customers to the wonder of Fortnum & Mason.’

project focus

Photography: James Newton

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MEATliquor York Place, Brighton Photography: James Medcraft

Design: Shed Opening date: September 2013 Store size: 300 sq m

A tattooed deep sea diver displayed across a three metre-wide lightbox greets customers as they enter the new MEATliquor Brighton restaurant, the MEAT team’s first permanent residence to open outside of London. Designed in collaboration with Shed and ilovedust, the 300 sq m ‘seascape’ eatery is full of theatricality with an interior inspired by Brighton’s unique charm and personality.

The dark grey exterior of the building on York Place is starkly contrasted with a colourful wit and set alive with pink ‘liquor’ neon signs, suspended in windows and framed by caged red, fluorescent strip lights. As the lights smoulder through the tinted glass, illuminated boxed-out lettering in pink and turquoise spell the word ‘MEAT’ over a porch which explodes with colour and fairground-inspired murals.

The interior is designed to reference the energy and aesthetic of the fantastical Brighton fairgrounds, the garish and sometimes sinister, heady-glare of glowing arcades and authenticity of the mismatched seascape. The walls, ceilings and floors are covered in surreal, dizzying patterns of leopard prints, smiling moons and waltzer-inspired graphics, which are illuminated by hues of red, purple and pink spilling from the strip lights overhead. The rear wall and six-and-a-half metre-long bar with its galvanised metal top are clad in beautifully silvered pine, drawing direct reference to an old, weathered pier.

Fantastical illustrations and obscure seaside personas by creative studio, ilovedust bring the restaurant and cocktail bar to life. These include a two metre-high neon flamingo and a 13 metre printed vinyl rug that stretches along the centre of

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project focus

the space. The succession of ‘peephole’ Georgian wire glass tables invite customers to look down onto the flooring with its whirlwind of colour.

It is the MEAT street scape though that is the focus of attention.

Running the length of one side of the restaurant, it features partitions of metal mesh, red ‘butcher’ curtains and rooms papered in call-card inspired graphics which set up a series of bespoke, private booths, each with their own style and design.

Additional banquette seating upholstered in bright blue and purple faux leather, galvanised metal and large round mirrored tables are mismatched with an assortment of crystal and wire lamp shades. This loud and eclectic mix of scenery is further pronounced by the wonderfully bizarre signage, including an original Clacton-on-Sea clown, revamped with a rather sinister sneer.

‘MEATliquor Brighton lives and breathes its seaside surroundings,’ says a spokesperson for Shed. ‘We wanted to ensure we brought every inch of Brighton’s energy into these interiors, right through from the seating, to the tables to the wall designs and light fittings. The restaurant has an exciting edge that we hope will provide a very unique eating experience.’

MEATliquor is expected to open a further restaurant and cocktail bar in Leeds later this year.

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show preview

Surface Design Show

The annual event for surface materials, in which Retail Focus is a media partner, returns in February with an inspiring programme of presentations, exhibitors, seminars and debates.

The Surface Design Show returns to the Business Design Centre in London next month, bringing together some of the latest inspiring interior and exterior surface solutions. Now in its eleventh edition, the show has established itself as a high-quality forum for architects and interior designers to network, share ideas and discover new materials.

Taking place from 4-6 February 2014, the three-day event will incorporate a host of features including an extensive seminar programme, a PechaKucha session, awards presentation and inspiration centre as well as more than 100 exhibitors, showcasing a range of materials from natural stone and wood to metal and paint.

It opens on Tuesday 4 February with a themed preview evening and live debate on Traditionalism, Modernism and the Vernacular, hosted by Maxwell Hutchinson for RIBA Journal.

A new focus this year is Light School, a series of talks and demonstrations intended to change the way delegates think about light. Presented by creative design duo, Sharon Stammers and Martin Lupton of Light Collective, the programme will enable designers and architects to explore topics, such as colour, technology, design and media surfaces through a series of lectures and interactive demonstrations by leading UK lighting designers.

‘Light and surface are inseparable partners in the built environment so the Surface Design Show presents a perfect platform for introducing light and lighting design,’ says Stammers.

‘Light School is an event that will allow us to disseminate our communal love of light and inspire the architecture and interior design communities to work more closely with lighting professionals and manufacturers.’

In addition, Global Color Research - the company behind Mix Trends colour forecast book - returns with its trend wall, where samples of materials, colour palettes and inspirational images will provide an insight into future trend concept themes for Spring/ Summer 2015.

On the final day, Sarah Featherstone, architect and director of Featherstone Young, will give the keynote address at the Surface Design Show Awards presentation, where the 2014 winners of the 12 awards will be announced.

Surface solutions

HI-MACS solid surface is distributed exclusively in the UK and Ireland by James Latham

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The Surface Design Show is a key event for architects, interior designers and specifiers looking for innovative surface solutions for the built environment. It attracts a large number of companies offering natural stone, wood, tiles, recyclable materials, metal, living materials, paint, illuminated surfaces and coatings that can be used as flooring, cladding, ceiling, wall coverings and more.

Among this year’s exhibitors, Italy-based Ceramiche Refin will showcase its latest porcelain tile collections, Artwork, Frame Up and Barrique. Artwork (pictured) is inspired by the stucco finishes used in Italian architecture in the XI century. The surfaces of the porcelain stoneware slabs express the prestige and delicacy of Venetian stucco via their wide brushing.

Solus Ceramics will return to the show with its new Spectrum range of hand-made encaustic cement tiles. Launched at 100% Design in September, the collection comprises different colours from vibrant blues and greens to pastel pinks and reds.

Meanwhile, hardwood flooring and joinery quality softwood specialist James Latham will exhibit new additions to its extensive

show preview

portfolio of surface solutions, including the Allure Stone Form range.

Made from natural stone, the range is available in a wide selection of high-gloss bold and vibrant acrylic colours as well as high-gloss wood grain, plus a stylish mirror laminate and a choice of rough-cut and brushed oak, smoked and stained veneers.

Glass artists Amanda Notarianni and Charlie Macpherson will use the show to launch their new bespoke glass panels, created using a mix of hand blown and cast glass techniques. The panels are designed to create a sense of depth and movement, which can be enhanced with LED lighting.

Spectral Lighting will showcase a selection of fittings, including Turus and Sinus, and WILA will display its Îąbet family of LED downlights and spotlights, as well as an LED solution for handrails and architectural facade illumination.

Show features Preview Evening Live Debate The Surface Design Show 2014 kicks off with the Preview Evening, where visitors can discover new products, meet fellow architects and interior designers, and relax with a glass of wine. A highlight of the evening is the Live Debate, this year hosted by Maxwell Hutchinson for RIBA Journal. Entitled Traditionalism, Modernism and the Vernacular, the Preview Evening Live Debate provides an opportunity to debate and discuss the role of materials in architecture style and the vernacular in the built environment.

PechaKucha Evening For a full list of exhibitors and to register, visit

www.surfacedesignshow.com

Cany Ash, founding partner of Ash Sakula Architects, will chair the third edition of PechaKucha which takes place on Wednesday 5 February at the Surface Design Show. Speakers, including Mark Ridler of BDP Lighting and Adam Furman, will hone their thoughts down to essentials in this powerful format of 20 slides advancing at 40 second intervals.

Future Thinking Curated by Alexis Harrison, materials consultant at Arup, Future Thinking is a display of emerging materials and technology influencing the work of architects and designers. The theme this year is 21st Century Fragments. See experiments, samples and one-to-one mock ups featuring the innovative use of familiar materials like ceramic, glass, metal, timber and brick alongside newer materials such as advanced composites.

Seminars Top: Notarianni Glass will launch its bespoke glass panels, created using a mix of hand blown and cast glass techniques.

The programme will include CPD seminars at the CPD Hub and Light School, a new addition to Surface Design Show.

The British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) will provide a dedicated Working Portrait talk as part of the seminar programme and will also be an official partner of the CPD Hub.

Above: Spectrum hand-made encaustic cement tiles from Solus Ceramics.

The Trend Wall

Below: Ceramiche Refin will showcase its latest porcelain tile collections, including Artwork.

Curated by Global Color Research, the colour consultancy behind Mix Magazine and Mix Trends colour forecast book, the Trend Wall will provide insight into future trend concepts.

Surface Design Awards Presentation The finalists of the Surface Design Awards 2014 were chosen by a judging panel of design experts, including Andy MacFee of Scott Brownrigg Architects, Maria Smith of Studio Weave and Lucy Spencer of Interior ID. Categories include Light & Surface, Public Building Exterior Surface and Retail Exterior Surface. The overall winners will be announced on Thursday 6 February.

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Flash show to preview go here

Mix Trend Wall Following the continued success of the Mix Trend Wall, Global Color Research returns to the Surface Design Show 2014 with a brand new set of exclusive inspirational themes for Spring/Summer 2015, explains Sally Davies, colour trend consultant/editor, Global Color Research.

As per previous years, an exciting wall of inspiration will display real samples of materials, colour palettes and images that give insight into future trend concepts. Samples will also be displayed on the Mix Publications stand, giving visitors the opportunity to get a closer look at the physical mood boards. The selection will showcase new designs from a variety of companies, including flooring, wallcoverings and hard materials, where key elements share a synergy with the Mix Trends material and colour forecast.

This year, the Mix Trend Wall will be based on our trend stories from Mix Trends Spring/Summer 2015; Glade and Aura.

Our first story, Glade, welcomes the first signs of spring using a green-based palette with hidden depths that still cling on to the decayed tones of winter. Fresh accents and sultry base tones unite with watery tones complementing earthier darks. As nature plays a key role in this story, it is no wonder it filters down to influence the aesthetics of material finishes; dry vs. wet finishes are inspired by aqueous and arid effects, influencing coatings, while organic substrates bring a feeling of wellbeing and inspire the use of time honoured crafts such as basket weaving.

The second trend is Aura; an urban palette with delicate undertones, evoking an atmosphere of mystery and introspection.

The blend of barely there tones and dark shades of the cityscape creates a dynamic palette. Industrial scenes alongside luminosity and shadow impact surface finishes as well as material structures in this story.

Together, these two trends offer an exciting contrast with both themes paying attention to colour within materials as well as focusing on surface finish.

To accompany the Mix Trend Wall and sample trays, Sally Davies will give a seminar at the show, discussing the four key trends for Spring/Summer 2015.

Above: Aura Below: Glade

When and where Business Design Centre, Islington, London Tuesday 4 February Wednesday 5 February Thursday 6 February

18:00-21:00 (preview evening) 11:00-21:00 (including PechaKucha evening) 11:00-17:00 (including Surface Design Awards presentation)

www.surfacedesignshow.com

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January 2014

: 4 1 0 VM 2

s ’ t a h Win store?

Trends 10 Commandments of VM

Profile: Kerry Lemon

AN EXPLOSION OF DESIGNS & IDEAS

The Visual Merchandising and Display Show is a magical explosion of light and colour tailor-made to dazzle and inspire. Don’t miss your chance for early registration today.

29th April – 1st May 2014 Business Design Centre, London T: 01945 420 068 E: enquiries@rvmww.com www.vmanddisplay.com

Welcome Visual merchandising,

according to Sarah Bailey and Jonathan Baker’s new book ‘Visual Merchandising for Fashion’, puts the art and design back into retail. It brings animation, excitement, energy and interest to the consumer shopping experience and adds value to the product and brand.

With Christmas all wrapped up for another year, our thoughts turn to 2014 and the holidays ahead. In this special supplement, eight industry professionals share their views on emerging VM and display trends (pages 43-45).

Jonathan Baker also reflects on the last 12 months and sets out his 10 commandments for 2014 (pages 49-50). It seems it’s time to inject some humour - and steer clear of the nautical look!

Also in this issue, we profile talented artist and illustrator Kerry Lemon, who has collaborated with numerous retailers on editorial and advertising projects as well as large-scale store installations (page 47).

Hopefully we’ll see you at the VM & Display show in the spring, if not before!

Gemma Balmford

43-45 VM 2014: What’s in store?

41

News

47 Profile: Kerry Lemon

49-50 The 10 commandments of VM

41 News The latest from the visual merchandising and display industry.

43-45 VM 2014: What’s in store?

www.retail-focus.co.uk

As we move into 2014 we ask a number of industry professionals to share their thoughts on possible VM and display trends in the year ahead.

Editor Gemma Balmford e. gemma@retailfocus.co t. +33 (0)7 61 03 21 33

47 Profile: Kerry Lemon Surrey-based artist and illustrator Kerry Lemon is making a name for herself with her growing portfolio of large-scale retail installations.

Production & Web Terry Clark e. terry@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405

Display Sales Lee Cullumbine e. lee@retailfocus.co t. +44 (0)845 680 7405

Cover image: Female mannequins stride through the proportion>london showroom, adding a sense of movement to the space.

47 49-50 The 10 commandments of VM

Freelance VM consultant, author and university academic, Jonathan Baker reflects on 2013 and sets out his 10 commandments for 2014

Come visit us at Euroshop 2014, Dusseldorf, Germany, 16-20 February, Hall 04 stand 4E40.

news

Book launch: Visual Merchandising for Fashion

Elemental Design create pop-up for limited edition fragrance Cosmetics and beauty brand L’Oréal installed an Enchanted Garden pop-up site in Selfridges London in December to celebrate the new Viktor & Rolf limited edition Flowerbomb Fairytale fragrance.

Designed in collaboration with Elemental Design, the site incorporated 25,000 flowers, all carefully applied by hand to a canopy.

Oversized replicas of the fragrance bottle were stacked at the entrance to the Enchanted Garden to draw visitors to the

site. Other features included a large book, positioned on a lectern, with a handwritten excerpt from the Viktor & Rolf story that has been especially created for the fragrance. Visitors were also invited to have their photo taken in the customised photo booth, where all photos could be directly tweeted or uploaded to Facebook.

The Enchanted Garden opened at Selfridges London from 4-12 December before being moved to the Birmingham store.

Amsterdam duo create champagne display Amsterdam-based artists Mayke Swemle and Machiel Haasbroek created this striking in-store display for Finest Spirits and Cigars at Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands in December 2013. The display features a masked mannequin wearing a dress made out of champagne muselets, which is supported by crows with golden beaks and feet.

VM & Display Show returns in 2014

Published by Bloomsbury Publishing Visual Merchandising for Fashion is part of the Basics Fashion Management series published by Bloomsbury, offering an introduction to the key concepts and techniques within the discipline.

Out this month (January), the 192-page paperback examines the various approaches to visual merchandising and retail display, from the initial design process through to product handling and experimentation.

The book is divided into six main chapters, covering a variety of topics from space planning principles and creating narratives to digital technology and the customer journey, and is beautifully illustrated throughout with clear diagrams and inspiring imagery.

It also features interviews and case studies from some of fashion’s biggest brands, including Anthropologie, Harvey Nichols and Topshop.

When designing, producing and installing a visual merchandising concept, this book will encourage readers to generate individual and self directed designs.

The annual VM & Display Show returns to London’s Business Design Centre this spring. The event will take place over three days from 29 April to 1 May and registration is now open at www.vmanddisplay.com

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, s t a Wh re? o t s in trends

VM 2014:

In today’s fast-moving, competitive, multichannel retail landscape, the customer experience is more important than ever. Visual merchandising plays a key role in the communication mix, inspiring, informing and engaging shoppers, and ultimately driving sales. So, as we move into 2014, we ask a number of industry professionals to share their thoughts on possible VM and display trends in the year ahead.

Think local

The future is black and white

Katie Baron

Markus Xyländer,

senior editor of retail, Stylus

head of design, Barthelmess

‘The experience of entering the store will be just as important as the one delivered inside in 2014 – setting the scene to come.

For example, the light in luxury British brand Mulberry’s London flagship is currently synchronised to mimic the natural daylight outside, but in future stores there will be more definitive transition spots that establish a sense of entering an entirely new brand world. These spaces are to be considered like spatial palette cleansers which, whether via low lighting or soft materials, will signal a shift from the mundane to the magical.

Local initiatives will also become essential to store design as consumers are becoming increasingly in favour of stores that have a personal feel, courtesy of their connection to the local community. For example, Converse’s two-storey store in San Francisco features artworks by local artists and visual merchandise displays based around limited edition trainers embellished with San Francisco-inspired graphics. Spanish footwear brand Camper’s new Shanghai store has an interior concept [that] visually references the traditional

houses of the region.

There will also be a rise in the number of stores reflecting a work-in-progress or behind-the-scenes outlook, fuelled by consumers wider appreciation of insideraccess platforms such as live-streamed catwalk shows and blogs. A fashion brand that is currently showcasing this trend is Swedish brand, &Other Stories. Inspired by its own design workshops and backstage area of fashion shows, “looks” are fixed to the ends of running rails on clipboards, while in-store visuals echo collection mood-boards.’

www.stylus.com

Right: New Decorado trend catalogue from Barthelmess

‘What actually is a trend and for whom, at which time? I’d prefer to give an outlook on what we all can be looking forward to in 2014 and in which directions different topics will be developing.

We will be seeing animals everywhere: present in windows, ads, at POS, as good carriers or simply as an object itself.

Taking a look at colours, black and white is the upcoming direction and materials will be shown in high-valence.

This takes us to new luxury. Luxury is a continuously changing subject to which visual merchandisers are reacting/ adjusting. Highest quality or high quality looks, as well as excellent workmanship are therefore imperative. Supportive colours for these looks are gold, copper composite and, of course, silver.

Geometric shapes will also be accompanying us in very many ways throughout the future: as an object in windows and stores, combined with products or individually.’

www.barthelmess.com

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trends

Build the story Gary Porter, founding director, Elemental Design ‘Clearly, more and more retailers are investing in screens (plasmas, LED’s, rear projection); the trend for animated backdrops and motion graphics is growing, fast. When some brands spend millions on television commercials, with the production values of Hollywood movies, they want all the mileage possible, screening them in windows and in-store. By example, I was quite surprised to see a portrait-format plasma in our local Marks and Spencer’s window, playing their commercial. The challenge has always been the cost and management of updating the video content itself. But at the same time, in terms of paper waste and transport, it’s a far more ecological option, environmentally. All content can be managed remotely, rapidly updated and screened globally, via internet uploads. Potentially, the paper poster’s days are numbered!

In fact, the overarching and exciting trend is for displays to become a part of a much larger marketing campaign, across multiple channels, building up “the story” rather than simply repeating or recreating it. Almost like chapters in a book, revealing the appropriate information, in a sequence, through the appropriate various mediums.’

www.elemental.co.uk

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Responsive stores that change with the weather Nicky Herbert

Deepen the customer experience

senior innovation researcher, GDR Creative Intelligence

Nina Constantin

‘In 2014, stores will physically adapt themselves in real time, depending on who’s shopping, what mood they’re in and whether it’s raining outside.

At Burberry’s Regent Street flagship store, a gallery of digital screens respond to the weather outside by showing a virtual rain-shower inside the store. The reason?

To complete the link in the customer’s mind between the weather and their best selling product – the Burberry Trench.

At Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport See Buy Fly Store, Philips Retail Solutions has installed lighting that changes colour to put customers in the right mood for buying different types of duty-free alcohol – warm reds for whisky and cooler blues for vodka.

When displays are lit up, the number of people browsing increases by 12 per cent and sales increase by three per cent.’

‘We are working more frequently with store planners to create coherent links between shop windows and in-store designs, particularly with brands who are located on the high street. We are also finding that experiential stores, where consumers can come, interact and experience the innovation and future direction of the brand, are becoming much more mainstream. Windows will need to be linked to this experiential theme and therefore will continue to play a central role in enticing customers through the doors to experience the theme. Flagship stores are noticeably enhancing their brand by deepening the customer experience through diversifying their products and services.

With competition continuing between online and high street, as well as the diversification of high street stores and development of digital media, 2014 is going to be an exciting year for retail and store design.’

www.gdruk.com

managing director, Prop Studios

www.propstudios.co.uk

Left: The new Burberry Beauty Box uses technology to transform the retail experience.

Right: Duplicate abstract female walking mannequins at proportion>london.

trends

Duplicate pose mannequins

More innovation for less

Make way for play

Tanya Reynolds

Jason Traves

Joanna Feeley

creative director, proportion>london

co-founder and head of creative, Lucky Fox

founder and creative director, Trend Bible

‘During early 2013 one of the most standout trends to have emerged in VM was “The New Model Army”. Dynamic groups or rows of duplicate pose mannequins creating repetitive and impactful visuals for store interiors. For 2014, we predict this trend will continue and grow, reaching the mainstream.

For our showroom launch in 2013 we installed a catwalk of duplicate abstract female walking mannequins, showing not only clever use of colour but how those first static repetitive lines can be used to interlock retail areas and give a sense of movement / energy that is all important in fashion. Forming the basis of one new development area for 2014, we will be introducing a brand new range of female mannequins containing all the essential elements needed for our clients to instigate this trend in a fresh way.’

‘For me, 2014 has to be about innovation.

Luxury brands are already leading the way with their use of technology to transform a retail experience, Burberry’s Beauty Box in Covent Garden being the latest example: the Digital Runway Nail Bar that offers customers the chance to try shades virtually, ipads instead of tills and screens instead of window displays deepening the relationship between customer and product and adding a romance to the buying experience.

Innovation isn’t just about technology.

The recession has pushed designers and brands to create theatre on the high street with less budget. That pressure can generate ideas and approaches that wouldn’t necessarily have happened.

Brands are updating their windows in all kinds of clever and efficient ways while retaining impact, from Mulberry’s changing seasons presented through the lifecycle of trees in autumn/winter through to smaller updates on mannequins and repurposed props. By changing key visual elements they have still transformed the window into another engaging display.

Although budgets are likely to improve in [2014], cost effectiveness will continue to be important to brands alongside the vast opportunities that tech presents.

Visual merchandisers will need to work hard to innovate, taking into account both opportunities and restraints.’

‘We began forecasting trends for 2014 back in 2012 at our biannual Trend Panel, where we discuss and deliberate future trends and what influences them. One of our four macro themes for spring/summer 2014 is Playful, a lighthearted trend that is a direct reaction to the doom and gloom that’s dominated the headlines over the past few years.

Finding the joy, inspiration and humour in life, and injecting this into design and the interior environment is key to commercial success for 2014.

The movie industry continues to demonstrate that adults have an appetite for superheroes and fairytales, and design catches up with film, as adults indulge in play and creativity. In times of economic uncertainty, people look to the simpler things in life for inspiration; it’s all about raising a smile when times are tough.

No longer purely the domain of children, we’re seeing adults enjoying playful design, from expressive painterly qualities to offbeat shapes and punchy graphic slogans. Why is play said to be important for children’s growth but is merely a diversion for adults?’

www.proportionlondon.com

www.trendbible.com

www.luckyfox.uk.com 45

Blacks VM London 3rd Floor Studio, 2-8 Scrutton Street, London EC2A 4RT | Telephone +44 (0)20 7377 1776 | Email info@blacks-vm.com Blacks VM Factory Rudgate, Walton, Leeds LS23 7AT | Telephone +44 (0)1937 840 090

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Kerry Lemon Surrey-based artist and illustrator Kerry Lemon is making a name for herself with her growing portfolio of large-scale retail installations.

Kerry Lemon always wanted to be an artist but never imagined it would be something that she would get in to. Worried that it was too risky to ‘just study art’, she initially signed up to become a primary school teacher before summoning up the courage at the last minute to swap courses. It’s a choice that, judging by her work and accomplishments to date, was certainly a good one.

On finishing her first degree, Lemon secured freelance work with a range of galleries, schools and museums before going on to do a masters degree in museum studies at Leicester University and later a post-graduate certificate in illustration at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge.

As an illustrator and artist, Lemon has been commissioned for a wide range of editorial, publishing and advertising projects for clients including Fortnum & Mason, The Shop at Bluebird, Smythson and Waitrose. She had a solo exhibition at Galerie Doux Dimanche in Tokyo in March 2013, entitled ‘In an English Country Garden’, and has created stunning hand-painted murals and window installations for the likes of Harvey Nichols, Liberty London and Le Bon Marché in Paris.

‘The thing with drawing is that it’s the process I love,’ says Lemon. ‘The physicality of moving my pen across the page and creating my own version of the world.’ She describes her style as delicate and feminine: ‘I draw quite slowly and I love how each drawing serves as a record of the time it took to create. I use a very fine pen and work under a huge illuminated magnifying glass as my work can be very intricate and detailed.’

Her very first window installation was for the Electrum Gallery on London’s South Molton Street, which she describes as a terrifying experience. ‘I was really worried about so many things,’ she recalls. ‘The need to paint mirror, the daunting scale, and the fact that it was such a public situation in which to paint. But, once I got started I loved it. I really enjoyed interacting with the public and working so large and publicly.’

Since then, she has completed a number of large-scale retail projects, including an installation for Harvey Nichols which won Best Window Graphic at the VM & Display Awards 2013. ‘The idea

was to create a dark and slightly sinister woodland,’ she explains.

‘I’d been experimenting with poured paints and inks in my sketchbook and so I developed this idea to create the backdrops.

I poured dark coloured inks over huge sheets of paper in my kitchen, which were later scanned and printed onto canvas.’ The work was originally created for the Knightsbridge store and later redeveloped for Edinburgh.

One of Lemon’s favourite projects, however, is the permanent wall mural she created in the beauty hall at Liberty London as part of the redesign in 2011. ‘It’s such a beautiful and historic building and I still can’t believe they let me draw on their walls,’ she says, modestly. The hand-drawn and painted mural features a peacock sitting in a magnolia tree and decorates one wall of the room as well as the door of the Queen Mary treatment room.

As for current work, Lemon is illustrating a new cookery book, creating wildlife illustrations for an editorial commission and getting ready to launch a new book called Fearless Drawing.

That’s on top of a project for a large retail and residential development in East London. ‘I’m creating bespoke door panels, a lift frieze and an enormous 6m x 18m wall piece for the site, so I’m keeping out of mischief!’

www.kerrylemon.co.uk

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HACKETT

HACKETT

THOMAS PINK

M&S INTERNATIONAL

JOSEPH / GILES DEACON BARBOUR

BANANA REPUBLIC

JOSEPH

harlequin-design.com twitter.com/HarlequinLondon facebook.com/harlequindesignlondon +44(0)20 7253 6238 Harlequin Design (London) Ltd. 4th Floor 26/27 Great Sutton Street, London EC1V 0DS

10 commandments

The 10 Commandments of VM 2014 Freelance VM consultant, author and university academic, Jonathan Baker reflects on 2013 and sets out his 10 commandments for 2014.

Come over to myspace while I’m doing a selfie of me twerking and google my twitter. Now, wouldn’t that make an interesting advertisement for the need of hard core tranquillisers.

Like miners panning for those elusive bits of gold, I have scoured my mind and images to bring you some thoughts of the year gone by and for the year ahead. Yes, it’s time for a non-drug induced flashback and some instant nostalgia; can you remember last January, February, March? Just in case your memory has gone into shut down over the holidays, here’s a look back over the last year and my thoughts for the 12 months to come.

Daily, it seems we engage less and less face-to-face, and our lives become less engaged and desensitised, unless we are able to do everything digitally or because we do so much digitally to feed our time-wasting internet fascinations. Before the internet of course, people did stupid, funny, and ridiculous things but no one would be able to see it. Now, as we know, all of these activities can be shared with millions of people who can spend each precious moment of their daily lives either doing a ‘selfie’ or watching other peoples naughty dog antics, pop singing wannabes or someone’s granny twerking; and oh how we howled with laughter. Your day can only go downhill from there.

Where are all of the young people on the streets, where we once were? All of those centuries or generations hanging out on the streets, wearing the latest parentally non-approved fashion and hoping to become discovered. Am I getting old? Around the world, the young and not-so-young now appear to lock themselves away and onto their screens. Oddly, whenever I travel to another country it is very easy to spot the poor or less fortunate; not because of the way that they are dressed or the way they live, but actually as they are usually the ones on the streets passing the time playing games, hanging out or even just making a nuisance of themselves, ahhh halcyon days.

Before you all start rolling your eyes, of course I too am just as guilty and have been slaving away for months writing, locked into my screen. Writing is a solitary path and while producing our first book, I wrote for weeks at a time without so much as uttering a word to anyone. Would I do it again? Not likely. Well, maybe once I get over the pain as it fades into the distant past or the next publishers provide a log cabin somewhere in New England, possibly overlooking an idyllic lake with a typewriter and rocking chair. My romantic view of living in ostentatious poverty with plenty of duvet days thrown in just didn’t happen.

While of course the journey is both cathartic and mind numbing in equal measure, it is a ‘mash up’ of agony, frustration and possible elation too, although I haven’t got that far yet. You are left feeling extremely drained and quite honestly too tired to do much else other than sit and surf the internet to watch granny twerking again and again, and maybe take a quick ‘selfie’ so that you can prove to everyone else on Facebook just how tired you

Above: Fenwicks (second commandment)

really are and wait for the ‘likes’ and the sympathy messages. And so the cycle continues, but rest assured, I won’t be ‘coming out’ on YouTube this year.

I am often asked what makes good visual merchandising.

Well, the answers may always be ambiguous as this is the nature of what we do. There is no ‘one’ answer, no formulae, no magic beans.

At this time of year, there is an opportunity to reflect on what we have done, where we are going and possibly who we are.

Many brands continue to throw weak visual punches at the passerby and become their own self ‘wrecking-ball’. Some have bored us to death while others have leapt ahead so far visually and digitally that we had to peddle much faster in order to keep up. This is not to say that any day soon we will be so digital that those magnificent shopping streets around the world will become Disneyfied theme parks of the way we used to shop, and filled with mannequin corpses and decomposing fixtures. This is a long way off yet, surely?

So, as we look ahead to 2014, put down the smart phone, let the screen saver do its thing and let’s commence the 10 Commandment count down.

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10 commandments

1.

Thou shalt produce creative sale schemes

One key area of the retail calendar that always seems to be on the receiving end of a bad deal is sale time. Well, not any more.

There were some fantastic little gems of schemes happening in London in 2013, from the incredible bi plane at Hackett; COS and its abstract themes; and Desigual with its giant washing machine.

2.

Thou shalt raise a brand from the ashes

Following the global recession it was such a shame to see so many brands become victims of the shopper malaise. Or maybe the brands just weren’t up to scratch for our ever-increasing fickle needs? It was with enormous pleasure therefore to see the likes of Fenwicks, French Connection and Warehouse produce such interesting schemes after years of generic visual merchandising.

Thankfully, with huge doses of creativity these brands are rocking the high street.

3.

Thou shall make men’s shoes more interesting

Men have always had the worst deal when it comes to shoes, and not much better when it comes to presentation either. Thankfully, brands such as Churches and Louis Vuitton produced fantastic alternatives in 2013 that wouldn’t have been the preserve of only the brave or look any less masculine than anywhere else.

4.

Thou shall be more sustainable

Oh yes, this one rears its head again. This is not to say of course that we have to consider a ‘Green’ scheme or build our visual merchandising from old bits of cardboard and water bottles, although Anthropologie does this particularly well. There were some incredible examples from brands such as Harvey Nichols and Vivienne Westwood leading the way in 2013. If luxury brands can do it then this surely can filter down to the mid-range brands at least?

5.

Thou shalt not revive the nautical look again

I have always hoped that this kind of look would stay firmly in its place in the 1980’s, but earlier in 2013, the nautical look appeared.

In a way it is not actually the merchandise that was unappealing but that the visual merchandising kit itself appeared to be dusted off and placed in the window spaces; old anchors, bouys, lamps, you name it. So, the reason I have included it here is that surely there must be a better and less ordinary way of showing this kind of product, should it pop up again in the future?

6.

Thou shalt collaborate

This is a fantastic time to collaborate and we have seen some incredible examples of this on the high street. From Karen Millen, Jack Spade, Topshop all the way to Harvey Nichols. The RIBA collaboration was particularly exciting to see and no doubt will run again this year. It is a fantastic example of architecture meets visual merchandising. The collaboration between Harvey Nichols and Andrew Salgado was incredibly exciting too and really injected a different perspective into the way we show product.

7.

Thou shall be super creative

There have been some incredibly exciting schemes over the last 12 months and in particular, the Harrods Christmas scheme with its very impressive train - visual merchandising at its most super creative. With the prevalence of global branding, it is extremely difficult to bring in any level of creativity when a brand dictates an out-of-the-box scheme, where one size fits all. This is a shame as customers locally are all very different and so visual merchandising should be oriented to the local market.

8.

Thou shall be clever with product

With global schemes dominating the high street, one thing we are really missing is humour. Whatever happened to those clever schemes that didn’t just show you product but actually made you screech to a halt and think, make you laugh or just make you smile? With brands such as Barneys now under different creative leadership, the waspish and caustic humour that their windows once projected has sadly gone. Of course, change is good, but let’s bring back the cleverness and humour into 2014.

9.

Thou shall not be dictated to by pressure groups

Now this will be a contentious issue for sure. If we wish to work with issues that are still taboo, such as death, war and to a point, sex, while presenting our offer to an ever-minutely sliced demographic, then we need to be prepared to defend it. As a general rule, stuffed animals are fine; live ones are not.

10. Thou shalt have a fantastic 2014 Above:

Top:

Warehouse (second commandment)

Churches (third commandment)

As I type this with my digital technology, locked into my screen and sadly not in a New England cabin in the mountains, I’m intermittently ‘twerking’ with granny and watching the dog do funny tricks. Wishing you all a very successful new year.

Keep up to date with what’s happening in and around London by following Jonathan’s blog at www.retailstorewindows.com

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D E S I G N E D F O R FA S H I O N

lady

Š Melvyn Vincent

by ralphpucci

www.cofrad.com contact@cofrad.com www.facebook.com/cofradmannequins

products

VM + display Andy Thornton This decorative shelving unit has a unique factory workshop feel about it, with the combination of industrial plumbing-style cast detail on steel tube to create this useful display item. The frame is all-steel and features cross-bracing at the rear for added strength. It is finished in a hand-aged patina to give it the vintage feel and includes three slatted timber shelves for merchandise. Andy Thornton offers a complete range of visual merchandising and retail display fittings, including shelving units, carts, rails, drawers and cabinets. The company can also design and manufacture bespoke pieces to order, in a variety of materials and finishes.

T. +44 (0)1422 376 000 E. marketing@andythornton.com www.andythornton.com

Messagemaker Messagemaker has increased the interactivity of its digital LED signs and displays with new TwittLED, a range of moving message displays that can now stream live Twitter feeds. Instantly connect with staff, visitors and customers by broadcasting a Twitter stream to bring them breaking news and offers. Alternatively use as an in-house communications channel to disseminate information widely and with speed.

T. +44 (0)1737 774 738 www.messagemaker.co.uk/twitter-sign Twitter: messagemakerLED

The VM Source proportion>london London-based bustform and mannequin manufacturer proportion>london will be presenting a wide range of current product at its German agent, Asthetik & Design’s showroom to coincide with EuroShop – leading retail trade fair 16th – 20th February 2014. On show in the renovated and enlarged space will be its ground-breaking menswear collection BESPOKE, essential mannequin poses from the SERIES collection, Harlequin kids plus its signature bustform ranges Vintage and RAW. Combining visual merchandising solutions and impeccable quality with innovative design, this showcase is one not to be missed.

T. +44 (0)207 251 6943 E. info@proportionlondon.com www.proportionlondon.com www.aesthetik-design.de

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With the never ending trend for lovely vintage-style pieces with a modern twist The VM Source is excited to present its new collection, VINTAGE. A choice of 3/4 bust forms plus busts with mannequin legs – stylish and beautifully made.

Brand new from the popular brand European Mannequins, these have great attention to detail with a stitched cover, fabric head and fully articulated wooden arms. The mannequin legs are shown in black but can be resprayed if required. They come with both foot and calf fitting as standard.

T. +44 (0)1780 761 947 E. info@thevmsource.co.uk www.thevmsource.co.uk

Retail Focus Oct 13_Layout 1 30/09/2013 13:45 Page 1

Realistic mannequin

NEW

collection

autumn/winter 2013

Over 40 stunning NEW mannequins now in stock Faceless • Abstract • Sculpted • Headless • Natural • Stylised • Torsos

morplan.com • Freefone 0800 451122 • Visit our 4 regional stores

products

VM + Display Visplay Push: Your merchandise display in a click. Can you imagine a system that appears when required and disappears when no longer in use? Push by Visplay appears with a click and disappears just as easily. This leaves plenty of creative scope for the perfect display, which can be flexibly adapted to changing merchandise densities. The system comes in two sizes – 43mm and 28mm.

T. +44 (0)207 288 9570 E. visplay-uk@visplay.com www.visplay.com

Hangers of London Hangers of London is a wholesale hanger manufacturer providing a wide selection of clothes hangers in plastic, wood, wire or metal. The company has one priority in mind and that is providing good quality hangers with an excellent service. It works closely on designs with its customers to ensure they receive exactly what they need, thus reflecting the loyal relationships it receives back from its clients across the world.

T. +44 (0)208 885 3055 E. info@hangersoflondon.com www.hangersoflondon.com Twitter: hangersoflondon

Print & Display Creative Instore Creative Instore Solutions is a global point of purchase design and manufacturing powerhouse that blends creativity with structural engineering to conceive sustainable designs which drive incremental sales. It’s an award-winning combination that sees it work with a blue chip client base.

Creative Instore Solutions is about understanding its client’s business objectives, crafting innovative solutions that are representative of its clients’ needs and delivering quality merchandising systems in a cost-effective and time-critical environment, resulting in long-term successful business relationships.

T. +44 (0)208 965 7995 E. hello@creativeinstore.com.au www.creativeinstore.co.uk Twitter: CreativeInstore

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The Long Life FSDU has been developed from recycled paper based materials. It is a cost-effective, durable alternative to wooden or metal display units. It sits nicely between traditional cardboard units, where the longevity and strength of a permanent unit is required but where budgets are tight or time in store is measured in months. Delivered flat packed, it takes one person around 10 minutes to install. Light enough to lift but also very robust and strong, the FSDU is printed with your artwork prior to despatch. Once the FSDU is no longer required it can be placed into a recycling system.

T. +44 (0)115 927 5141 E. sales@printdisplays.com www.printdisplays.com Twitter: printdisplays

VM & Display show 2012

The Shop and Display Equipment Association is supporting a group of British exhibitors at EuroShop in association with UK Trade & Investment. Make sure you visit these innovative UK companies while you are at the show.

Find out more about the British group exhibitors on our dedicated website:

ïïïKbritishgroupKçêÖ= Book your hotel here: Call 0207 407 5492 and quote ‘SDEA EURO 14’

Shop and Display Equipment Association

T: 01883 348911 F: 01883 343435 E: enquiries@sdea.co.uk www.shopdisplay.org

57

opinion

Digital

meets the high street High street stores are not dead, they just need to expand their offering and embrace new technologies, argues Thomas Arenz, head of marketing communications at Samsung Semiconductor Europe.

As the world of retail grows ever more digitised, many brands feel they must go online or go out of business. But, there is another option. By embracing the retail and personalisation technologies used online, high street stores can begin to develop a ‘best of both worlds’ approach.

Regardless of what many industry commentators believe, the high street is far from dead. In fact, there is still a wide variety of reasons why consumers prefer to go offline and visit their local high street stores.

Offline shopping is about more than just ‘in-out’ purchasing; it’s about creating an enjoyable and ultimately social experience for the customer. There are many of these social experiences that simply can’t be replicated online.

By combining offline benefits with internet technologies, such as personalised recommendations, wish lists and home delivery options, we can begin to reimagine the role of the high street in the future of retail.

It is this combination that Samsung hopes to achieve through its recently launched ‘Retail of Tomorrow’ store for Swiss fashion

58

retailer Heidi.com in Neuchatel, Switzerland. A group of industryleading cooperation partners are pooling their core competences for the development of this concept store, with Samsung Chemical providing solid and quartz surfaces, which are being used in the shop’s flexible interior, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, and EG Electronics supplying the panels with touch and design expertise. The integrated software solution for mobile and in-store interaction is provided by INOX communications and Red Ant. By using the very latest technologies, developed by Samsung Semiconductors, customers can visit a finite space without being limited to a finite number of products and opportunities.

This demand for unlimited stock and infinite customisation is becoming an increasingly common expectation among customers who have grown used to purchasing in an online environment.

In order to compete in this space, high street stores will need to expand their offering and embrace the technologies that make such expansions possible.

One example of such technology is Samsung Semiconductors’ recently developed ‘Endless Shelf’ display. By using this life-sized touchscreen device, customers at the Retail of Tomorrow store are able to touch and try on a selection of physical garments, while also flicking through an infinity of colours, sizes and customisations. In other words, the high street retailer becomes fully competitive with online competitors and is able to offer the physical and social advantages on top.

Customers will still need to be able to shop in a traditional sense, but a large majority of what they view will need to be digitised and displayed on a visual interface.

In undertaking this transition, the key will not necessarily be technological innovation. Instead, retailers must look to focus their efforts on continuously improving their customer experiences.

We shouldn’t be looking to pile in as much new technology as possible just because we can. The end goal should be to ensure customer satisfaction and to work out the best and most efficient route to ensuring that satisfaction – the technology itself is merely an enabler to fulfil that goal.

As consumers begin to grow more accustomed to the merger of online and offline shopping, the possibilities for improved customer care are endless. In the case of the Heidi store, customers can be linked to their online profiles simply by enabling the Heidi app on their mobile phones and checking in at the Heidi virtual POS in the store to access their personalised recommendations. At the same time, Heidi staff will be able to make personalised recommendations based on existing wish lists

opinion

and previous purchasing behaviour.

At this point it is worth restating that the goal of such technology is not to replace the high street, but merely to develop a combined approach that uses both the personal service of offline stores and the efficiency of online shopping.

That said, the issue is much larger than simply ‘online vs offline’. We must also start to consider the growing role of mobile in the retail environment. By using technologies such as NFC (Near Field Communication), retailers can revolutionise the way they provide discounts and personalised offers. While working with the Retail of Tomorrow project, Samsung has been able to use such technologies to provide customised, location-based, welcome messages directly to shopper’s mobile devices. Through this contact, retailers can look to build a genuine relationship with customers, rather than just spamming them with generic discount deals.

In addition to the customer side, mobile should also be used

to enhance the productivity of store staff. Provided with locationenabled tablet computers, retail assistants will be able to receive targeted notifications whenever a registered customer decides to check-in at a store. As a result, staff can ensure they understand exactly what a customer might be interested in, before they enter into a dialogue and attempt to provide any recommendations.

Some of these technologies may sound like works of science fiction, but they all exist and are already being implemented in the Heidi store. The project was about bringing together a variety of innovations in one unified end-to-end solution for omnichannel retail. I believe that it is this type of clean-slate innovation that the high street needs if it is to effectively compete with the big online retailers. That was what the Retail of Tomorrow project was all about: providing a template for future retailers to adopt and follow in order to improve customer journeys, increase efficiency, and – ultimately – sell more.

www.samsung.com/global/business/semiconductor Heidi.com ‘Retail of Tomorrow’ store

59

Call: 0845 680 7405 to advertise

60

multisensory design

Scents

of place In a world where we are bombarded with messages, multisensory brand experiences can help strike a deeper emotional connection with consumers, reports Retail Focus.

As the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Eve, London welcomed 2014 with what was claimed to be the world’s first multisensory firework display. Thousands of revellers by the River Thames experienced a sensory assault with the different coloured fireworks matched to fruity flavours and scents. ‘Architectural foodsmiths’ Sam Bompas and Harry Parr partnered with Vodafone and the Mayor of London to create the spectacular fusion of smells, tastes and explosions, which included bubbles filled with Seville orange flavoured smoke and edible banana confetti.

London-based duo Bompas & Parr have created a number of immersive flavour-based experiences in recent years and they are apparently now working on a major installation for one of London’s biggest department stores, which will see ‘a revolution inside peoples mouths’.

‘Today everyone is a journalist,’ Bompas tells Retail Focus.

‘All customers are constantly writing their autobiography through updating their media feeds and you need to give them compelling stories. Creating multisensory brand experiences are a powerful tool to do this.’

A good example of the benefits of multisensory design to a brand comes from when Bompas & Parr hosted the Truvia Voyage of Discovery, whereby they flooded the roof of Selfridges London to create a boating lake and float-up bar. ‘The installation articulated the story of the brand, Truvia, with the experience so interesting that it had visitors attention for an average of an hour and 20 minutes - far more than the regular stroll past a product on a shop shelf,’ says Bompas. ‘There were engaging opportunities for sampling, generating lasting memories keyed into the brand. It was also so photogenic that it generated global media coverage.’

On the high street, Virgin Holidays has pushed the boundaries

Above: Bompas & Parr worked with Vodafone and the Mayor of London to create the world’s first multisensory firework display.

of travel retailing with a new engaging store environment that activates multiple senses. The first so-called ‘multisensory holiday lab’ opened in Bluewater, Kent last summer and integrates textured flooring, green screen photography, changeable lighting and different holidays scents. Aromas such as coconut and soft sand, created by Brandaroma, greet customers at the entrance to the store while a sand area and miniature putting green add texture. In-store lighting also changes throughout the day to reflect morning through to evening.

Nissan Motors has also tapped into the senses to communicate its brand story to customers. The company used new sights, sounds and scents on its auto show stand during 2013 to create a ‘complete experience for visitors’. The interactive display, which featured at various global auto shows last year, included a distinctive fragrance that was periodically released into the space and mood-setting background music that changed with a

Right: New sights, sounds and scents greeted visitors at Nissan’s auto show stand throughout 2013.

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multisensory design

subtly different vibe and energy for morning, midday and evening.

The fragrance, developed in collaboration with scent marketing specialist Air Aroma, is said to capture the identity and Japanese heritage of Nissan while encompassing Nissans innovative vision for the future. ‘The beautifully complex composition incorporates notes of bergamot, green tea, jasmine and various woods, resulting in a fresh and subtle aroma,’ explains Air Aroma COO, Alan van Roemburg.

Studies have shown that taste, touch and smell are intimately involved in creating a positive brand experience. ‘Scent is a critical component to the sensory experience,’ claims a spokesperson for in-store media specialist, Mood Media. ‘Creating the right scent for your store can become a recognisable extension of your brand, triggering nostalgic memories, which can ultimately enhance brand loyalty and increase basket spend.’

A study by Canada-based Nose Knows Design found that a scented space can add up to 27 seconds to a shopping experience. ‘Scent is a powerful tool to change and enhance a space,’ says Tracy Pepe, scent designer and CEO of Nose Knows Design. ‘[It] enhances the environment and gives the overall space a pleasant ambiance that makes consumers slow down.

‘In today’s market, consumers are bombarded with sensory stimulation,’ continues Pepe. ‘This makes it harder than ever to capture the attention of a consumer. Smell is the only one of the five senses that can not only capture attention, but also transport someone back in time to a scent memory, all within less than a second.’

The scent design company has collaborated with a number of big brands, including the Trump Hotel in Toronto, and has even developed scents for outdoor bus shelters. Over the next 24 months, Pepe believes that many of the top retailers will be identified by a trademark scent.

Victoria’s Secret, Singapore Airlines and Abercrombie & Fitch are all prime examples of companies that have developed brand scents to enhance the consumer experience and differentiate themselves from the competition. For Simon Harrop, chairman and

l tool to ‘Scent is a powhearfnuce a space,’ change and en Design. ows

Tracy Pepe, Nose Kn

founder of the Aroma Company and CEO of Brand Sense Agency, Abercrombie & Fitch created a watershed moment in retail brand design practice. ‘Like it or loathe it, we are all familiar with the Abercrombie & Fitch fragrance,’ he says. ‘In truth, if you loathe it, you are probably not the Abercrombie & Fitch target consumer.

But [they] make a clearly targeted statement through the not-toosubtle fragrance in their stores. It has been a great success.’

We’ve come a long from the days before Abercrombie and Fitch, according to Harrop, and yet, as an industry, retailers have hardly even caught on to the scent of what is possible using fragrance. ‘The opportunity to affect brand attitudes, influence emotions and behaviour, and to drive brand loyalty and sales are almost limitless,’ he argues.

Pete Champion, director of interiors at brand experience consultancy, i-am associates, believes the more visceral and less visual senses will become increasingly critical in physical retail in the future, as it re-aligns its raison d’être in a world where customers can purchase anything and everything online.

‘As more of our human experience becomes digital and virtual, human beings as a counterbalance will yearn for more sensorially immersive experiences to feel connected to what makes us part of nature,’ he claims. ‘This is essential for retail brands to bear in mind in the new omnichannel retail landscape.’

Left + Below: Philips recently opened a pop-up shop in Shoreditch, London for its ‘You Need To Hear This’ campaign, which centred around its new range of urban-themed headphones. The space, designed and produced by Elemental Design, was carefully curated to provide a multisensory journey through numerous props and artworks.

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products

surfaces + finishes Knauf AMF Ceilings Knauf AMF Ceilings is exhibiting its innovative Heradesign ceiling and wall panels on stand 304 at the Surface Design Show 2014 on the 4-6 February at the Business Design Centre, London. Heradesign are sustainable, distinctive wood-wool based ceiling tiles and wall panels, which are cost effective and easy to install. The panels have a natural textured finish and provide up to class A sound absorption. Available in various sizes, face patterns, edge details and an almost unlimited range of colours, including RAL, NCS, BS or StoColor, Heradesign is a unique product which offers architects the ability to create bold, eye-catching designs that are truly original.

T. +44 (0)20 8892 3216 E. info@knaufamf.co.uk www.amfceilings.co.uk

Fila Fila will showcase a series of new solvent-free surface treatments on stand 325 at the Surface Design Show 2014 in February.

They will include LEED-approved FILAMP90 ECO PLUS – a high performance sealant developed for internal and external polished and unpolished natural stone, as well as polished porcelain surfaces. Other new treatments on show will include FILAPW10 – a solvent-free contaminate-blocker designed for professional treatment of absorbent materials, including stone and terracotta.

T. +44 (0)1584 877286 E. filaUK@filasolutions.com www.filasolutions.com

Armourcoat Armourcoat has added two new designs to its Sculptural range for 2014: Smoke and Basalt. An original range of seamless sculptural surface designs, Sculptural walls are constructed from a series of pre-cast panels that are bonded to the substrate. The panel joints are then filled and sanded, and a final decoration is applied to the surface. Armourcoat is a leading manufacturer of poloshed plaster and high performance surface finishes.

T. +44 (0)1732 467 993 E. sales@armourcoat.co.uk www.sculptural.armourcoat.com Twitter: Armourcoat

IDS Underlining its commitment to environmentally-friendly products, IDS has increased its offering of FSC certified laminates that are available ex-stock. At any one time, IDS stocks in excess of 300,000 sheets of laminate for sale into the commercial, shopfitting and furniture manufacturing sectors, and now 100,000 of that total are available with FSC certification ex-stock for delivery within 48 hours across the UK. The vast ex-stock offering is made up of Polyrey laminates which are fully PEFC certified and has been boosted to its current total thanks to Formica recently gaining FSC accreditation on all of its plain colour laminates and more than three quarters of its other laminate designs.

T. +44 (0)8457 298 298 E. info@idsurfaces.co.uk www.idsurfaces.co.uk

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Sun 16th - Tue 18th February 2014 ExCel London

ThE UK’S LARGEST EVENT FOR OPTICIANS IN 2014 Over 400 eyewear brands, with over 2,000 products, will go on show to 1,000s of independent opticians at the UK’s largest optical event of 2014.

Register FREE at www.100percentoptical.com

Official UK partners

products

selection Sektor Sektor, the own-brand range of professional interior products from CCF, is exclusively offering ClicWall as an innovative solution for specifiers, architects, and contractors under growing pressure from tightening deadlines. The easyto-install panelling system provides a way of reducing the time required on site, while the clean finish further cuts labour costs. Sektor ClicWall is equipped with a unique Uniclic system, which allows the panels to be simply located and pushed together, making it virtually seamless. The MDF panels, which come in a variety of contemporary pre-decorated finishes, vastly improve installation time as both the preparation and final decoration stages can be avoided. www.sektorinteriors.com

www.ccfltd.co.uk

Armstrong Ceilings Just months after one of its mineral fibre tiles became the first in the world to be granted basic Cradle to Cradle certification, Armstrong Ceilings has gone one better. Armstrong’s Perla OP 0.95 tile, which contains 53 per cent recycled content and is 100 per cent recyclable, is now accredited to Silver status. In addition to this, it performs acoustically to Sound Absorption Class A and is highly light reflective (85 per cent), being available in Board, Tegular, MicroLook and SL2 edges.

T. +44 (0)800 371 849 www.armstrong.co.uk Twitter: ArmstrongCeilin

iGuzzini Laser Blade, the first linear downlight with circular distribution, combines an extremely minimal design with iGuzzini’s considerable experience in LED products for internal applications. The body of the fitting is a long and thin strip of only 4cm wide, designed to create sophisticated optically circular light distributions. The particular light distribution of Laser Blade avoids the dot-like effects typical of single LEDs and creates a more traditional circular distribution normally achieved by circular downlighters to achieve a single general emission.

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

Forbo The ultimate moisture absorber, Forbo’s award-winning Coral entrance flooring now stops up to 94 per cent of all tracked in dirt, making it 40 per cent more effective. This reduces the potential for slips and trips, and delivers savings of up to 65 per cent in cleaning costs. A supreme all-rounder, the enhanced range also offers superior environmental credentials, improved fire rating and is even easier to install. All Forbo’s Coral textile and Nuway rigid entrance flooring systems can be co-ordinated to create fully integrated entrance areas.

T. +44 (0)844 822 3928 E. info.flooring.uk@forbo.com www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/coral Twitter: forboflooring

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signs & graphics

focus on: signs and graphics Signs and graphics play an important part in the in-store customer experience. Used effectively, they can inform, inspire and entertain as well as communicate and reinforce the brand image with consumers. This month, we navigate our way around an assortment of stores that have installed new signs, graphics and illustrations.

Child’s play Mr Gresty has created the logo, signage, stickers and t-shirt designs for new children’s shoe store, Ryker Kids. The London-based designer and illustrator produced a simple and playful typographic logo with a Scandinavian palette as well as alternative graphics for apparel, stickers, brand bags and boxes. Ryker Kids opened in North London in 2013, with interior design by Forster Inc.

www.mrgresty.com

Navigating La Belle Etoile In Luxembourg shopping mall La Belle Etoile visitors are guided interactively by multitouch technology from Pyramid Computer and software from 3d-berlin.

Situated in the four entrance areas, 32-inch polytouch kiosk systems offer customers a simple plan of the 39,000 sq m shopping centre as well as information on each of the 105 shops. The polytouch kiosk systems are based on light insensitive projected capacitive touch technology, which is said to make them reliable, highly responsive and easy to view in all light conditions. A printer module is planned in the near future so that visitors can print out directions.

www.polytouch.de/en

Debenhams lights the way As part of the extensive refurbishment works at Debenhams on London’s Oxford Street, Graphica Display has designed and installed a range of backlit LED stretch fabric lightboxes. The company was appointed to develop and implement ideas on promoting brands; one of these being back-lighting large images not only in the windows but also in various departments.

Graphica uses dye-sublimation printing as standard in relation to lesser quality solvent and UV print methods, and each fabric is finished with a simple fixing method that allows users on site to interchange any panel quickly on a DIY principle.

www.graphicadisplay.co.uk

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signs & graphics Made For You Annie Rickard Straus is a lettering artist and illustrator who often creates graphics and signage for retail environments. In December, Straus worked for the Tottenham Court Road branch of Heal’s to hand paint an explosion of lettering for its SS14 press show to promote the new ‘Made For You’ range. Together they came up with fun and relatable phrases and rhymes to draw people over to the collection (the text above a corner sofa playfully asks ‘Who’s sitting on the remote?’) Straus creates artwork that can be used digitally and reproduced but also works ‘live’ directly onto large surfaces, as seen in Heal’s.

Chalk pens and acrylic paints were used to give a sophisticated matt finish. Look out for these in February where they may well be gracing their window displays!

www.annierickardstraus.com

Driving force Signs and display specialist W&Co has worked with BMW on the basement handover bay refurbishment at its flagship store on London’s Park Lane. A range of graphics have been installed across a number of the large plain white walls in the basement to brighten up the space, including the FabriLite fabric face light box.

The large format graphics are designed to give the impression that the customer’s new car has driven straight out of the design.

www.w-co.co.uk

Bringing Tetley to life British tea brand Tetley is using virtual assistants from QM and customer journey specialist Tensator to promote tea in Kuwait’s supermarkets. Installed at 10 Co-op stores across the country, the Virtual Assistant Ultra model is being used to bring the mechanism of Tetley’s drawstring teabags to life with live demonstrations. The digital signage solution uses technology to project an image and create the illusion of a real person, and is designed for retail shop floor promotions, and to create a buzz around a particular product.

www.tensator.com

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Directory

Retail Supplier Directory, find the specialist retail products and services you are looking for from leading suppliers around the world.

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

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

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

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Directory

Aluminium Fittings

Bespoke Display

Bespoke Display

Design Consultancies

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

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

T: 01273 582241 E: info@d-i-a.net W: www.d-i-a.net S. www.twitter.com/DesignsinAlumin

Aluminium Fittings

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.

We provide a bespoke manufacturing service for Point of Purchase and Exhibition Display products. Using our CNC Router and other machinery, we can prototype and produce your merchandising displays and products.

H Squared Limited are display specialists in creating brand presence at the point of purchase.

Through a holistic approach to the development of display... strategic led creative design and cost effective manufacture, supply and installation, H Squared are able to offer clients an experience to nurture an idea as well as the capability to realise and deliver these ideas.

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

T, 01403 783670 E. sales@rgbproducts.co.uk W. www.rgbproducts.co.uk

T: 01530 814200 E: studio@hsquared.co.uk W: www.hsquaredltd.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/HSquaredLtd

Bespoke Display

Bespoke Display

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.

H Squared Limited are display specialists in creating brand presence at the point of purchase. Through a holistic approach to the development of display... strategic led creative design and cost effective manufacture, supply and installation, H Squared are able to offer clients an experience to nurture an idea as well as the capability to realise and deliver these ideas.

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.

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: 01530 814200 E: studio@hsquared.co.uk W: www.hsquaredltd.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/HSquaredLtd

T 01892 890608 E: phil@spurcreative.co.uk W www.spurcreative.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/ spur_creative

T, +44 (0) 1179 725168 E. victoria@ignitiondg.com W. www.ignitiondg.com

Aluminium Fittings

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

Bespoke Display

Impulse are a retail display design and manufacturer, offering our own UK facilities and overseas supply chain if time allows.

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

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

T: 0 01422 310767 E: sales@wbelland.com W: www.wbelland.com

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

T: 0 01422 310767 E: sales@wbelland.com W: www.wbelland.com

Barcode Readers

Bespoke Display

Bespoke Display

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

CNC Routing

Display

Axis design, develop, manufacture and install bespoke retail display solutions.

We’ve worked with the biggest names on the high street, but approach every project in the same way, with the maximum thought for your brand, products and sales environment.

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

Display

RGB Products 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.

KSF provides retail merchandising display solutions to retailers, brands and trade customers from CONCEPT to COMPLETION via our global supply chain (China/UK/East EU) to deliver LOWER total cost of ownership. YOU’VE TRIED THE REST; NOW PUT US TO THE TEST.

We provide a bespoke manufacturing service for Point of Purchase and Exhibition Display products. Using our CNC Router and other machinery, we can prototype and produce your merchandising displays and products.

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

T: +44 (0)8450 944 699 E: ben.wang@ksf-global.com W: www.ksf-global.com S: www.twitter.com/KSFGlobal

T, 01403 783670 E. sales@rgbproducts.co.uk W. www.rgbproducts.co.uk

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

71

Directory

Display

Display

Display - Digital

Furniture

Are you looking to increase your product sales, re-brand or launch a new product? If you’re not already talking to us, you should.

Our group offer an unprecedented level of experience coupled with a comprehensive range of products and services. Our aim is to make your products sell and your service the best on the market.

Impulse are a retail display design and manufacturer, offering our own UK facilities and overseas supply chain if time allows.

Crystal Display Systems is already a leading UK designer, distributor and value added reseller of flat panel display solutions. We have a vast array of media players, interactive displays, videowalls and shelf edge displays.

Our knowledge and expertise has also led to us being one of the European leaders in transparent LCD.

Spur Creative Workshop deliver unique visual merchandising solutions for retail brands. Boasting a wealth of experience in high quality prop making we create display concepts for window staging, POS and brand awareness campaigns.

T: +44(0)113 265 0093 E: sales@concept-data.com W: www.concept-data.com S. www.twitter.com/GDProjects

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

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

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

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

T: 01273 582241 E: info@d-i-a.net W: www.d-i-a.net S. www.twitter.com/DesignsinAlumin

Display

Display

Impulse are a retail display design and manufacturer, offering our own UK facilities and overseas supply chain if time allows.

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

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

Display

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.

Display

Display

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

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Furniture

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.

GDP designs, manufactures, delivers and installs world-class retail environments, store fixtures, displays and visual merchandising equipment.

GDP is truly Global, through its activities in many parts of the world.

We have supplied high-end displays and furniture to successful retail brands throughout Europe, North America, South Africa and South East Asia.

T: +44 (0)1582 433 771 E: info@gdprojects.eu W: www.gdprojects.eu S. www.twitter.com/GDProjects

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.

Display - Digital

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

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

EPOS

Offering an extensive range of EPOS hardware from world class suppliers such as Star Micronics, Honeywell and Posiflex, DED offer the complete EPOS hardware solution alongside a unique rewritable loyalty system.

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

Finishes

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

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

T: 0 01422 310767 E: sales@wbelland.com W: www.wbelland.com

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

Graphics

Graphica Display print, produce and install retail graphics including till point graphics, window graphics, LED lightboxes, cut & printed vinyl and much more. Nationwide & Euorpean delivery and installation.

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

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

Lighting

POP/POS

Slatwall

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.

Wandsworth is the oldest independent manufacturer of electrical accessories in the UK. A truly British company, the majority of our products are sold throughout the world. Wandsworth’s traditional activities are the design and manufacture of superior metalfinished electrical wiring accessories.

KSF provides retail merchandising display solutions to retailers, brands and trade customers from CONCEPT to COMPLETION via our global supply chain (China/UK/East EU) to deliver LOWER total cost of ownership.

YOU’VE TRIED THE REST; NOW PUT US TO THE TEST.

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

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

T, 01483 713 400 E. info@wandsworthgroup.com W. www.wandsworthgroup.com S. www.twitter.com/WandsworthGroup

T: +44 (0)8450 944 699 E: ben.wang@ksf-global.com W: www.ksf-global.com S: www.twitter.com/KSFGlobal

T: 01273 582241 E: info@d-i-a.net W: www.d-i-a.net S. www.twitter.com/DesignsinAlumin

Integrated Marketing

POP/POS

POP/POS

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

Slatwall

BWP Group is an integrated communications agency that specialises in retail destination marketing. We drive footfall to shopping centres and retail brands across Europe, through a combination of marketing and brand consultancy, PR, experiential, events, social media and digital communications.

CDS began life in 2005 specialising in shopfitting. The offer now covers all aspects of Commercial interiors, Electrical, Mechanical and Manufacturing and Maintenance.

CDS is now in a perfect position to cover the complete life cycle of your next project, whether that covers a single or multiple stores.

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.

MicroSlat is a strong versatile 25mm fine pitched aluminium slatwall system. With a bespoke range of components it can be used to build unique and interesting displays or add value to existing designs.

T, 01628 625 900 E. hello@bwpgroup.com W. www.bwpgroup.com S. www.twitter.com/BWP_Group

T: 0845 674 4420 E: info@cdsgroup.uk.com W: www.cdsgroup.uk.com S. www.twitter.com/CDSGroupLtd

T 01892 890608 E: phil@spurcreative.co.uk W www.spurcreative.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/ spur_creative

T. 01325 351 276 E. sales@microslat.com W. www.microslat.com S. www.twitter.com/MicroSlat

Logistics

POP/POS

POP Install

At Chequers, we provide a specialist fragile transportation and logistics solution, dedicated primarily to the retail visual merchandising, POP/POS display and shopfitting sectors.

H Squared Limited are display specialists in creating brand presence at the point of purchase.

Through a holistic approach to the development of display... strategic led creative design and cost effective manufacture, supply and installation, H Squared are able to offer clients an experience to nurture an idea as well as the capability to realise and deliver these ideas.

Our aim is simple: To provide GOLD STANDARD Installation and Merchandising of Display Equipment at competitive prices.

T, 01757 707077 E. sales@chequerstransport.com W. www.chequerstransport.com

Lighting

Atrium, established 36 years ago, is the UK’s longest standing independent architectural lighting supplier. Flos, Ilti Luce, LTS and Modular have granted us full exclusivity for the UK and the Republic of Ireland. We specialise in the supply of high quality design-led technical and decorative luminaires to the commercial project market.

T: +44 (0)20 7681 9933 E: sales@atrium.ltd.uk W: www.atrium.ltd.uk S. www.twitter.com/Atrium_ltd

T: 01530 814200 E: studio@hsquared.co.uk W: www.hsquaredltd.co.uk S: www.twitter.com/HSquaredLtd

POP/POS

Impulse are a retail display design and manufacturer, offering our own UK facilities and overseas supply chain if time allows.

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

T: 0161 941 2239 E: mike.kirchin@plan2install.co.uk W: www.plan2install.co.uk

POP Install

We are the leading retail implementation agency with unrivalled expertise in Installation, Retail Audits, Merchandising and Field Marketing. If you think your campaigns might benefit from a complete service, you should talk to us.

T: 0161 486 7878 E: instore@momentuminstore.com W: www.momentuminstore.com S: www.twitter.com/momentuminstore

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: 0 01422 310767 E: sales@wbelland.com W: www.wbelland.com

Suspension System

Suspension systems - Simple installation, high carrying weights, automatic height locking device and progressive adjustment, compatible with existing covering and panelling.

T: 020 8446 0161 E: sales@walterlogan.com W: www.walterlogan.com

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Q&A

Retail design consultancy Sheridan&Co has not long celebrated its 30th anniversary. During those three decades the studio has worked closely with the beauty industry specialising in fragrance, colour and skincare, as well as the spirits, fashion, jewellery and watch industries. Here, we talk to founder and chairman, Michael Sheridan, about emerging trends and new year’s resolutions.

RF. How will you remember 2013?

MS. 2013 was a year of both change and growth. We’ve been lucky enough to enjoy a 24-month period of sustained growth, but I’m fully aware that the past year in particular has remained a turbulent one for many in the retail industry. I believe we’re in the early days of recovery both in the UK and some parts of Europe. There may be more turbulence to come, but I think many businesses have become more adept at reacting to market changes and will continue to look for ways to remain relevant to best satisfy their customers’ needs.

RF. Research company Mintel has announced Mixologiste as the key trend set to impact global beauty consumers in 2014. What beauty retail trends do you expect to see this year?

MS. This doesn’t surprise me and we’re actually working with clients on mixologiste concepts at the moment. Beauty clients make up about 90 per cent of our total portfolio and they are continuing to enjoy good growth, despite wider market conditions. New product development has never been more active than it is now and 2014 will be about the industry embracing new initiatives to create attention, and heighten both customer experience and education in real space retail. For me, there will be a focus on interactivity and retail theatre.

RF. What other trends will accelerate in the next 12 months?

MS. There’s definitely been a focus on the retail experience in major shopping malls and bigger city centres. This has purely been down to the fact that these have been the areas that the average consumer has been gravitating towards. However, I believe we’ll soon begin to see new models and initiatives to reinvigorate localised and smaller store revival.

RF. You’ve been working with the University of Leicester to develop an environmentally friendly alternative to MDF, for shopfittings and POS units. How is the research coming along?

MS. Very well. We’ve produced a new, 100 per cent recyclable form of MDF that we believe could have a major impact on the retail industry. The new material has been developed using natural starch from food waste to bind it together. This allows for the entire product to be recycled for future use as well as being fully biodegradable. We’ve been working alongside the University to implement it into retail display units, giving a glimpse into a greener future for in-store designers.

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RF. We also understand you’re in the process of launching a retail design competition in collaboration with British tailor Timothy Everest. Can you tell us more about the project?

MS. This will be a big focus for us in the first few months of the year. We’ve teamed up with Timothy to provide a unique springboard for up-and-coming designers. We’ve been asked to work on concepts for Timothy’s new central London store and we’re offering someone the chance to join the project team.

Individuals are being invited to submit their ideas following a brief and these will be whittled down to find our winner. We’ve called it The Blue Pages as we will basically be opening up our own contacts book to the finalists too. Like any sector, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to get that all-important foot in the door, and that’s exactly what we’re offering here.

RF. How did the idea come about?

MS. Timothy Everest is not only a fantastic bespoke tailor, but also a radical in terms of thinking and partnerships. His profile and business diversity makes him the perfect brand partner to look at presenting brand and brand touch points in a new and exciting way. A project like this warrants an innovative approach, hence the competition element. There is a wealth of creative talent out there and we want to make sure we are at the forefront of both uncovering and nurturing it.

RF. What else is new at Sheridan&Co? MS. We’re preparing to launch some exciting new technology that will help both consumer and staff navigate brands, creating added interest, experience and engagement at the point of sale. Analytics in real space will feature strongly and influence future product development and presentation. This has derived from our work in virtual and real space retail channels, and the fact we’re striving to understand all shopping channels, but also to keep the purpose of real space retail as relevant to brands as we can.

RF. What’s your new year’s resolution?

MS. To help demystify retail and bring new measures and sustainable solutions to market.

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