There is only one fundamental reason for store design – to improve sales and profits of a retail business. Mintel’s report show how developing good stores will allow retailers to build their brands and consequently increase margins. It focuses on the effect of store design, and it’s ability to avoid direct price competition among retailers. The report uses the latest data and analysis of major industry retailers to show how marketing and commercial skills can create a strong retail brand which will attract consumers and differentiate their business from other retailers.

Key themes covered in the report are personality in the colour schemes, creating a fun atmosphere, enabling change and establishing greater flexibility for layouts. The report examines why more retailers now recognise that “joined up thinking” is necessary to make store designs work for customers and enhance consumer experience.

Furthermore, this report examines the major design companies and shop fitting suppliers that serve retailers. It highlights the new store design initiatives in the major retail sectors and looks at the climate that created this demand for more retail design.

Key factors looked at by Mintel include:

Creating desire

Industry change

Overcoming short term jitters

Consumer expenditure and retail sales

Store design in smaller cities

Large supermarkets vs. food-only stores

The effect of gender on shopping habits

Consumer typographies

Family shopping styles

The effects of financial difficulties in 2003