The impact of store lighting - tips

Lighting is part of a store’s design that is often given less consideration than it is due. Before considering the potential impact that light design may have on custom, there are financial reasons why it should be at the forefront of your mind. Your shop lighting will almost certainly account for a large portion of your energy costs. In addition, the space seen and used within your store will depend on how it is lit. Since it is a necessary overhead, you will want to maximise the return on this investment. Even natural light should be considered too, either being supported or by being incorporated into your shop design. Since each store space is unique, there is no standard blueprint for lighting. However, to help you make the decisions that will best suit your shop, we have put together advice on what is important to know.

Ambient Light

The main lighting of your store is called ambient light. It not only serves the practical function of offering enough illumination to draw customers in and allow them to shop but it also works in cooperation with your shelving. For instance, while your store’s aesthetic may benefit from a low level of ambience, if you have high vertical shelves then the items displayed on lower shelves will receive little to no lighting at all. The alternative of having a bright central lighting system is not always the answer since the harsh overhead light will accentuate shelves and cause strong shadows. Furthermore, if you have a variety of products that differ in value, you may want to highlight certain areas of the store. Seek advice from experts, such as www.crowndisplay.co.uk, will allow you to find out how best to approach your shop fittings.

Accent Lighting

Accent lighting is used in stores to bring focus to a particular shelf or display. This is particularly valuable if you have an item or showcase that is of higher value, as is found in display cabinets. Using accent lighting is a great way to draw attention to certain areas without compromising the overall level of lighting in the shop.

Natural Light

If your store is abundant in natural light then consider yourself very lucky. Natural light has a great effect on a shop by drawing in customers and often complimenting visual merchandising. However, the changing light of day often needs compensation, either by obscuring a light that is too strong or brightening up a dark period, especially if your shop has evening hours of operation. Depending on your window display, you may want to consider adjustable lights or shelving display that is not susceptible to exaggerating the light, such as glass shelving.

Activity Lighting

If your store has certain areas of focus then it will likely benefit from activity lighting. This supports improved custom as it immediately draws the attention of customers to an area of activity, such as a sale area or central display. It may also be used to orientate custom and assist the flow of traffic around the sales floor.