Why Choose a Retail Design Company Rather than a Shopfitter

When it comes to creating a physical retail space, it’s easy to assume that a shopfitter is the only professional you need. After all, their job title literally includes ‘shop’ and ‘fitter’. They build the fixtures, install the shelving, and make sure everything is plumb and level.

But what if we told you that relying solely on a shopfitter to design your store is a bit like hiring a carpenter to design your entire house? Yes, you’ll get a functional structure, but you might miss out on a masterpiece.

This is where a dedicated retail design company like Barber Design comes in. While a shopfitter is an essential part of the construction process, a retail design company is the visionary, the strategist, and the storyteller. We don’t just build a shop: we craft the entire customer experience.

What is a shopfitter? And what is a retail design company?

A shopfitter’s primary focus is on the how. How will this shelf be built? How will this counter be installed? They’re experts in the practical execution of a plan.

A retail design company, on the other hand, starts with the why. Why are customers coming into your store? What story do you want to tell? What emotions do you want to evoke? We consider every element, from the flow of traffic and the lighting to the materials and the branding, in order to create a cohesive and immersive environment that resonates with your target audience. We think about your customer’s entire journey, from the moment they see your storefront to the moment they leave with a purchase.

What does a shopfitter do? What does a retail design company do?

A shopfitter will build what you tell them to build. But as a retail design company, we think more about brand storytelling and strategic design. We understand that a physical store is a powerful extension of your brand. So, we work with you to translate your brand’s values, personality and aesthetic into a tangible space. And we do this using design elements that tell a story and build a connection with your customers.

A retail design company will help you figure out what you should be building to truly represent your brand and stand out from the competition. At Barber Design, we consider things like:

• Your brand identity: How can the store’s design reflect your brand’s unique personality?
• Target audience: What kind of environment will appeal to your ideal customer?
• Competitor analysis: How can you differentiate your store from others in the market?
• Merchandising strategy: How can the store’s layout encourage exploration and increase sales?

Optimising the customer journey and maximising sales

A well-designed store is not just about looking good: it’s about performing well. As a retail design company, we’re experts in consumer psychology and spatial planning. We ensure we design a layout that guides your customers through the store in a way that maximises product exposure and encourages longer stays.

As part of the process, we think about:

• Aisle width and flow: Creating a comfortable and intuitive path for your customers.
• Placement of key products: Strategically placing high-margin or new items where they’ll be seen.
• Sensory elements: Incorporating lighting, sound, and even scent to create a memorable experience.
• Point of sale: Designing a checkout area that’s efficient and a final positive touchpoint.

A shopfitter may build you a counter. But a retail designer will make sure it’s in the optimal place to serve customers efficiently and potentially drive impulse purchases.

Efficiency and cost savings in the long run

You might think that hiring a retail design company is an extra cost. Not so. In reality, it’s an investment that can lead to significant savings. We create detailed plans and specifications that a shopfitter can follow precisely, which minimises errors and misunderstandings. And a well-thought-out design reduces the likelihood of costly changes and rework during the construction phase. Plus, a store designed for optimal flow and merchandising is a store that performs better, leading to a faster return on your investment.

In conclusion: A partnership is the key to success

Ultimately, the best approach is not to choose one or the other, but to create a partnership. The retail design company is the architect and the creative director, developing the comprehensive vision for your store. The shopfitter is the skilled contractor who brings that vision to life with precision and expertise.

So, if you want your store to be a destination, a brand statement, and a sales powerhouse, start with a retail design company. We can help you design an experience your customers will love, and your competitors will envy.

If you’re planning a new retail concept or rethinking your brand experience, we’d love to collaborate. Let’s talk about how great design can elevate your next project.