Retail Focus #135

the Advantages of Our European Manufacturing: Efficient, Ethical, and Compliant Wooden Hangers

We are excited to introduce you to the benefits of partnering with our manufacturing network for wooden hangers, offering efficient, ethical, and compliant solutions. Choosing European manufacturing for your wooden hangers means more than just supporting local businesses. It also significantly reduces the carbon footprint of your products compared to far east alternatives. The geographical proximity translates into lower emissions from transportation, aligning your brand with environmentally conscious practices and helping you meet sustainability goals.

High Capacity with 3-4 Week Lead Times

Speed to market is crucial in today’s fast-paced retail environment. With a production capacity of 10,000 wooden hangers daily, we offer the scalability and efficiency to meet high-volume demands. This significant output ensures that we can provide competitive pricing that rivals far east manufacturers, giving you both cost savings and quality assurance. Our European facilities boast lead times of just 3-4 weeks for wooden hangers, which is a third of the time compared to far east manufacturers. This rapid turnaround allows you to respond swiftly to market demands, manage inventory more effectively, and reduce the risk of stockouts.

Our commitment to ethical operations is underscored by our FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification. This well-recognised accreditation guarantees that our wooden hangers come from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social, and economic benefits. Partnering with us means supporting sustainable practices and reinforcing your brand’s dedication to ethical sourcing.

EUDR Compliant

Starting December 2025, compliance with the European Union Due Diligence Regulations (EUDR) will be mandatory. Our proactive approach means we are already EUDR compliant, setting us apart in an industry where many retailers are not yet aware of this upcoming requirement. By choosing us, you can be confident that your wooden hanger supply chain meets future regulatory standards, avoiding potential disruptions and penalties.

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HELLO...

Hello and welcome to the latest edition of Retail Focus, coming to you as we begin to feel a slight chill in the air, with autumn very much on the horizon. As we start to switch seasons, retailers’ thoughts will begin to shift towards the silly season that is Christmas.

In fact, just the other week, pictures appeared on social media of a street in a Hertfordshire village that had been transformed from a sunny summer setting into a winter wonderland, with the road and pavements covered with snow – all in preparation for Marks and Spencer to film its 2025 Christmas advert! How is it that time of year already?!

But before we get too ahead of ourselves, there is plenty to see and do between now and the festive season, with Halloween, Bonfire Night and Black Friday among several seasonal highlights for retailers.

This issue, we look back at some of the fantastic work from retailers around the world during the summer months, as well as offer insight into technique and technologies that can help to evolve your shopping space.

On this note, one of our special features this issue focuses on sustainable signage and the tools available to retailers seeking a more environmentally friendly approach to selling. We also take a closer look at the impact of in-store lighting, speaking with several experts about how this can help transform any retail environment.

Tying in with this is a feature on visual merchandising and the many options available to the retail sector, as well as a focused piece on the rising popularity of pop-ups in luxury retail. On top of this, we interview The Sign Group,

looking at how effective signage can improve the shopper’s journey and improve retail performance

Also make sure that you check out our special feature on cybersecurity and what you can do to prevent attacks on your business!

Aside from this, we have all the usual project focuses, including how Dalziel & Pow recently unveiled the eighth generation image space design for Balabala, a Chinese childrenswear brand, as well as insight into Hamleys opening its ninth store within the GCC region.

There is also a look at how umdasch Store Makers partnered with La Moda Bernardo on its new store in Dornbirn, Austria, while we lift the lid on Atelier Gusta, a collaboration between GUSTA Jewellery, Von Motz, and mode:lina™ in Poznań’s Jeżyce district.

Enogh to keep you going until the days begin to shorten in and you start thinking about digging out your winter coat? We think so; see you next time!

CONTENT DIRECTOR

Lee Cullumbine 07949 781817

For subscription enquiries please email: lee@retail-focus.co.uk

Retail Focus is published by LTC Digital Ltd

No part of Retail Focus may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without permission. Please address all enquiries to the editor at the above address. The opinions expressed in Retail Focus are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of the information contained in these pages. We will assume permission to publish any unsolicited material unless otherwise stated. LTC digital Ltd

THE CREATIVE RETAIL AWARDS

EMERALD THEATRE | 25 SEPTEMBER 2025

The Creative Retail Awards are much more than a mere accolade; they represent a pinnacle of achievement in the retail industry. The Creative Retail Awards feature 20 expertly curated categories, offering a broad platform for retailers, brands, agencies, and suppliers to showcase their achievements. This diverse range of categories culminates in an unparalleled awards ceremony, celebrating the remarkable talents and accomplishments within the retail sector. Participation in these categories is not only a recognition of success but also a pivotal moment that can shape the future trajectory of those in the retail industry. www.creativeretailawards.com

CANNES, FRANCE | 4 - 5 NOVEMBER 2025

MAPIC is the International retail real estate event to build the ultimate lifestyle and shopping destinations. It is an opportunity to learn network with key players at the centre of the retail property industry’s transformation, and be part of creating the exciting new business models that are shaping the places to live, play and shop of the future.

The 30th edition of MAPIC is introducing an optimised and efficient two-day format (4-5 November).

www.mapic.com

SURFACE DESIGN SHOW

BDC LONDON | 3 - 5 FEBRUARY 2026

Surface Design Show is an event dedicated to surface material innovation. It is the event of choice for architects and designers to see, source and specify the latest and most inspiring internal and external surface materials from over 180 exhibitors. We look forward to welcoming you back to the Business Design Centre, next year for Surface Design Show 2025, 3-5 February 2026! www.surfacedesignshow.com

INTEGRATED SYSTEMS EUROPE

FIRA GRAN VIA, GRAN VILA | 3 - 6 FEBRUARY 2026

Integrated Systems Europe is the world’s leading audiovisual and systems integration exhibition, showcasing technology innovators and solutions providers from around the world, and featuring inspiring conferences, events and experiences.

The annual four-day event, which takes place every February, is organised and run by Integrated Systems Events. www.iseurope.org

CHRISTMASWORLD

FRANKFURT AM MAIN | 6 - 10 FEBRUARY 2026

As the leading international trade fair for seasonal decorations and festive decorations, Christmasworld opens up effective design possibilities to surprise customers. For new synergies that offer added value. www.christmasworld.messefrankfurt.com

SIGN & DIGITAL UK

HALL 6, NEC, BIRMINGHAM | 22 - 24 FEBRUARY 2026

Running for over 35 years, SDUK is a central part of the industry calendar and recognised as a launch pad for new products and an economic stimulus for the industry. At Sign & Digital UK 2026 visitors will be able to make the most of the educational and lively feature areas on offer.

www.signuk.com

GOOD THINGS COME IN THREES: THE LIBERTY ROMFORD WELCOMES TRIO OF OPENINGS

Redical, the real estate owner and operator of The Liberty Romford, has announced a trio of new openings at the destination. 80s Casual Classics has launched its southern debut, Lovisa has opened its latest location, whilst MINISO has opened the doors to its permanent store, following a successful pop-up in December 2024.

Marking its first location in the south, 80s Casual Classics’ new flagship spans 2,340 sq ft, showcasing 70s, 80s, and 90s-inspired apparel from nostalgic heritage brands, including Sergio Tacchini, Fila Vintage, Ellesse, Adidas Originals, Lacoste, Diadora, and Benetton. The Liberty Romford store stocks custom-made exclusives from third-party brands, including modernised retro styles, that can only be found at 80s Casual Classics.

Global jewellery and accessories retailer, Lovisa, has launched its latest 915 sq ft store at The Liberty Romford, stocking its full range of necklaces, earrings and rings, as well as piercing facilities. Lovisa joins a popular jewellery and accessories line-up at the destination, including H.Samuel, Pandora, and Swarovski.

Following a successful pop-up in December 2024, MINISO has unveiled its 2,270 sq ft London borough debut in Havering, and has since exceeded sales expectations significantly. With queues across and outside the centre, the new store showcases the brand’s signature mix of fun and collectable product ranges, including popular Vinyl Plush Blind Boxes, alongside a multitude of characters from Hello Kitty to Harry Potter.

RAILPEN COMPLETES PHASE ONE OF MULTISTORY, ITS BENCHMARK 295,000 SQ FT CENTRAL BIRMINGHAM OFFICE REDEVELOPMENT

Railpen, manager of the £34bn railways pension scheme in the UK, has completed the first phase of the complete transformation of its 295,000 sq ft (NIA) Multistory office in Birmingham. Railpen has combined two existing buildings to create a significant new best-inclass office in the centre of the UK’s second city.

The first phase of Multistory comprises 27,000 sq ft of retail and leisure space on the ground and lower floors, with CBRE and Creative Retail appointed as leasing agents. The ground floors of the two buildings have been merged to provide eight retail units, linked by a 15,000 sq ft indoor-outdoor bar and café with 2,000 sq ft terrace, an adjoining atrium, and unique 100-seat auditorium, that together will serve as Multistory’s social focal point.

POLTRONESOFÀ TRANSFORMING UK SOFA MARKET AFTER MAJOR INVESTMENT IN SCS STORES AND RANGES

Europe’s leading sofa retailer, Poltronesofà, is close to completing a £57 million transformation of 96 UK stores as the company offers UK customers an unmatched choice of ranges and fabrics and an enhanced in-store experience.

The Poltronesofà group operates over 310 stores across Europe and is the market leader in both Italy and France, with a market presence in Belgium, Switzerland, Malta and Cyprus. The Group acquired, entirely with own cash, the ScS Group in January 2024 in the next stage of its European expansion plans.

The product and store overhaul, backed by the financial strength of the parent group, has also been accompanied by a strategic focus on the core sofa offering, withdrawing from flooring and dining businesses.

NESPRESSO TO OPEN NEW BOUTIQUE AT ST JAMES QUARTER

St James Quarter has announced that Nespresso, the global coffee brand, is set to open its only Edinburgh boutique at the leading destination, introducing its latest experiential retail concept. The 1,173 sq ft Nespresso will join Level 3’s line-up of aspirational brands, further bolstering the Quarter’s premium offer.

The St James Quarter Nespresso will deliver a fresh experience and be a continuation of the brand’s new boutique concept, designed to foster meaningful connections and elevated coffee experiences. The airy, modern space will feature a ‘Coffee as an Art’ bar, where visitors will be able to discover the craft of coffee, sample new flavours including the new summer collection and enjoy learning new recipes with masterclasses hosted by the passionate and knowledgeable Nespresso team.

THE CENTRE, LIVINGSTON ANNOUNCES THE ARRIVAL OF F.HINDS & MARBLE BUFFET,

THE FIRST SITE IN

CENTRE, CREATING A TOTAL OF 41 NEW JOBS

A

SHOPPING

The Centre, Livingston, which is one of the largest shopping centres in the country has unveiled plans to open a new jewellery store, F.Hinds and a 380-seater Marble Buffet restaurant, which will be their first site in a Scottish mall, creating a total of 41 new jobs for the local area.

F.Hinds is a sixth generation, family-run jewellers which opened its first store in London in 1856 and now has 118 stores across the UK, the store will offer a wide range of products for every age, taste and occasion, as well as popular services including jewellery and watch repairs.

The 1,395 sq. ft. store, which will be located next to Ryman, is due to open in August, bringing six new jobs to the shopping centre.

The 15,770 sq. ft. contemporary designed Marble Buffet restaurant, which will create 35 new jobs, will be located above Nando’s on Almondvale Boulevard, and is expected to open in May 2026.

It will feature live cooking stations with skilled chefs creating a wide selection of dishes from around the world including Asian, Indian and European.

ROADCHEF UNVEILS FIRST-EVER FARM SHOP AT SEDGEMOOR SERVICES

• New Farm Shop celebrates Somerset's artisan producers with premium produce from over 40 local growers, farmers and artisans

Roadchef, one of the UK's leading motorway service area (MSA) operators, announces the launch of its new Farm Shop at Sedgemoor Services Southbound, on the M5. This marks the company's first venture into showcasing premium local artisan produce. The new offering invites travelers to pause their journey and discover the finest food, drink, and craft gifts that Somerset and the wider South West region has to offer.

Sedgemoor Farm Shop proudly showcases quality produce from over 40 local Somerset producers, transforming the traditional motorway stop into a celebration of the county's rich culinary heritage. The farm shop gives visitors the opportunity to truly experience Somerset as they travel across the region, rather than simply passing through.

ROBERTO CAVALLI DOUBLES ITS PRESENCE IN IBIZA WITH A NEW BOUTIQUE AT IBIZA GALLERY MILANO

Roberto Cavalli proudly announces the opening of a new boutique in Ibiza Gallery Mall, further expanding the brand’s presence on the iconic Balearic Island. Following the success of its first location, this second store reinforces Roberto Cavalli’s commitment to Ibiza and its vibrant international clientele. Located in the heart of Ibiza Gallery, the island’s newest luxury destination — where fashion, art, fine dining, and entertainment converge — the boutique spans 200 square meters and features a striking L-shaped glass façade stretching 10 meters and rising to a dramatic height of 7.5 meters. This expansive frontage draws the eye directly to the boutique’s bold architectural centerpiece: a golden bronze brushed metal wall, laser-cut with Roberto Cavalli’s signature zebra pattern, which creates an instantly recognizable backdrop and embodies the brand’s distinctive identity.

ICONIC FASHION BRAND GUESS SET TO JOIN BRAINTREE VILLAGE LINE-UP

International lifestyle brand GUESS is opened its doors at Braintree Village on Thursday 24th July, bringing its iconic fashion collections to the Essex-based outlet shopping destination.

Known for its trend-led denim, contemporary apparel and accessories, GUESS is located next to BOSS and will offer guests a range of stylish wardrobe staples for men and women, all at up to 50% off RRP.

The arrival of GUESS marks an exciting addition to Braintree Village’s growing portfolio of premium and designer brands. The new store promises to deliver an elevated shopping experience for guests looking to refresh their wardrobes with globally renowned fashion pieces.

SHINE BRIGHT LIKE A DIAMOND: PRAVINS SELECTS CENTRE:MK FOR ITS THIRD LOCATION

centre:mk, one of the UK’s top 10 prime regional destinations, has announced the signing of luxury boutique diamond and jewellery specialists, Pravins, for the brand’s third location.

Selecting a 1,250 sq ft unit on Sunset Walk, Pravins will launch in October, featuring a wide range of pieces, from fine jewellery to bespoke engagement and wedding rings. centre:mk’s guests will enjoy access to a champagne and coffee bar, along with both in-person and virtual consultations.

Pravins centre:mk will showcase luxury finishes throughout, including marble and high-end detailing, creating an elevated customer experience. While maintaining Pravins’ signature store layout, the new location will also introduce modern touches tailored for centre:mk.

K-BEAUTY ARRIVES IN WALES WITH PURESEOUL’S CARDIFF DEBUT

K-Beauty is finally coming to Wales! This autumn, PURESEOUL will open its 10th store — and its first outside of England — at St David’s Cardiff Shopping Centre in Cardiff.

From a single shop in 2022 to double digits in under three years, PURESEOUL has officially cemented its status as the UK’s Home of K-Beauty. Wales has consistently ranked in PURESEOUL’s top 10 regions for online customers, and Cardiff has long been one of its most engaged communities.

“We’ve had strong support from our Welsh customers since day one, so bringing PURESEOULto Cardiff felt like a natural next step,” says Leslie Tang, Co-founder and CEO. “Our offline rollout is accelerating, and this store marks the beginning of our next phase - expanding strategically, but at pace, across the UK. Every location we open is 100% driven by our customers’ voices. We’re listening, we’re moving quickly, and we’re aiming for 30 stores by the end of 2026.”

VAGABOND TO OPEN UK’S LARGEST URBAN WINERY AT CANADA WATER

agabond Wines, the self-pour wine bar group, has agreed terms to take 6,000 sq ft of space at British Land and AustralianSuper’s 53-acre Canada Water Masterplan, with doors set to open later this year.

The new Vagabond bar will be home to the UK’s largest urban winery – bringing large-scale winemaking, immersive experiences, and over 100 wines by the glass to Central London.

Backed by investment from owner Majestic Group, the winery is expected to quadruple Vagabond’s English wine output, supporting the growth of its small-batch, multiaward-winning still and sparkling range – including the recent Best English Still Wine win at the Independent Wine Awards for Solena, as well as WineGB’s Boutique Producer of the Year 2024.

• IKEA confirms it is set to open its first York location on Friday 29th August 2025

• The opening forms part of IKEA’s broader expansion plans within the UK, with four more locations planned to open within the year

IKEA has announced the further expansion of its presence in the UK with the upcoming opening of a new Plan and Order Point in Clifton Moor Retail Park, York. This marks a significant milestone as IKEA establishes its first presence in the city.

The new Plan and Order Point will open its doors in York at 9.00am on Friday, the 29th of August.

IKEA Plan and Order Points are smaller stores, designed to provide customers with bespoke kitchen and storage planning services. At these locations, customers can access in-depth home furnishing advice from experienced IKEA co-workers, who can assist them in planning, purchasing, and installing their ideal kitchens, bedroom and living room storage.

APPLE TREBLES TOUCHWOOD PRESENCE WITH NEW STORE

Premium tech company moves to larger store showcasing new concepts

Apple, the world’s leading consumer electronics and premium technology company, has more than trebled its presence at Touchwood shopping centre with the opening of a new, enlarged store at the Solihull scheme.

Apple has signed a new lease for a 13,750 sq ft store in the Crescent Arcade area of Touchwood – opposite its existing outlet – that incorporates the latest design features and concepts that characterise the brand’s innovative retail approach. The new store opened on Saturday 26th July 2025.

CROCS

UNVEILS PINNACLE ‘URBAN ENERGY’ STORE IN NEW YORK’S SOHO SIGNALLING A NEW ERA FOR THE FAMOUS FOOTWEAR BRAND

Following a successful soft launch, Crocs – one of the most instantly recognisable footwear brands on the planet – prepares to make a bold statement for the GRAND OPENING of its first-ever Urban Energy concept store in New York’s SoHo district on Friday.

Located at 543 Broadway, the space marks a new chapter for the brand in the US, blending global brand power with a one-of-a-kind in-store experience. With dual entrances on Broadway and Mercer Street and a footprint spanning 60 metres in length, it’s a statement landmark with a street-level edge –designed to match the pace and personality of the city itself.

This is more than a store – it’s a destination. Shoppers will discover the widest range of Crocs anywhere in the world, including new drops, New York-exclusive products, and the global debut of Crocs EXP – a premium, limited-edition product range featuring short-run silhouettes that sit at the intersection of technical innovation and trend-setting style. Visitors can personalise their Crocs on the spot, choosing from everyday icons through to gold-plated and diamond-set charms priced up to $850 each.

PADEL AND SKATEBOARDING SET TO TRANSFORM DERBION’S FORMER EAGLE MARKET SPACE

• Social Sports Society has signed to occupy 54,773 sq ft of the former Eagle Market

• Flo Skatepark will also signed occupy an additional 20,828 sq ft space

• The two arrivals showcase Derbion’s ability to break the traditional shopping centre mould by creating a community sports destination like no other Derbion, the East Midlands’ premier retail and leisure destination, is set to become home to 10 padel courts and a new skatepark after agreeing two groundbreaking leasing agreements with community sports operators Social Sports Society and Flo Skatepark.

Founded in London as a way of uniting communities through sport, Social Sports Society will be bringing its innovative offering to Derbion after signing a five-year lease for 54,773 sq ft of space to transform one part of the former Eagle Market area.

This will be Social Sports Society’s third location outside of London with venues already in Birmingham and Manchester. Its new facility at Derbion will be one of the largest indoor padel centres in the UK and is set to open this Autumn.

SWYFT ANNOUNCES EXPANSION INTO SWITZERLAND AND AUSTRIA FOLLOWING STRONG EU MOMENTUM

British furniture brand Swyft is pleased to announce its official launch into Switzerland and Austria, marking its fourth and fifth international territories since its founding in 2019.

The expansion follows the early success of Swyft’s German debut in February 2025, which has exceeded expectations with order volumes doubling initial forecasts and growth tracking ahead of the brand’s first five months in the UK. Originally intended as a standalone market launch, strong consumer demand and a seamless European supply chain have fast-tracked the move into neighbouring markets ahead of schedule.

BOUX AVENUE BECOMES LATEST FASHION BRAND TO JOIN MANCHESTER ARNDALE LINE-UP

Boux Avenue, the cool British lingerie, nightwear and swimwear brand that’s making waves across the press and social media has just signed a 10-year lease to occupy space at Manchester Arndale, marking an exciting expansion for the brand into the North West’s most visited retail destination.

Boux Avenue will occupy a prominent 2,765 sq ft unit on New Cannon Street near to Sephora, which is set to open later this summer, offering it high visibility and strong footfall from Manchester’s beauty and fashion shoppers.

The new space will bring Boux Avenue’s signature in-store experience to Manchester shoppers, including their renowned expert bra fittings, luxurious fitting rooms, and a wide array of exquisite lingerie including their viral strapless and push up bras, plus swimwear and the softest nightwear. Designed in London, Boux Avenue has built its reputation not only on the beautiful detailing and luxurious femininity of its products, but also on their quality, comfort and fit, offering an inclusive size range, all at an accessible price.

LONE DESIGN CLUB HITS BRISTOL: SCALING THE FUTURE OF RETAIL, ONE POP-UP AT A TIME

Lone Design Club and Hammerson Collaborate to Launch Cache

Following the success of its Cardiff launch, Lone Design Club returns with a bold new chapter this time debuting CACHE, an innovative retail concept opening in Cabot Circus, Bristol, in partnership with leading landlord Hammerson. More than just a name, CACHE is a statement. In tech, a cache stores vital data for speed and performance. In culture, CACHE is where future-facing design, fashion, and creativity are kept curated, considered, cult, and ultimately commercial.

As the retail industry shifts away from rigid long-term leases and toward more fl exible, data-driven experiences, CACHE offers a future-facing format that’s becoming increasingly essential. It provides a strategic entry point for emerging DTC brands to test physical retail in prime locations with minimal risk. For landlords like Hammerson, CACHE acts as an incubator — allowing brands to grow their presence, build confidence, and ultimately graduate to larger permanent units within their portfolios.

The Wait is Over The 2025 CRA Shortlist Has

Been Revealed!

Celebrate the exceptional talent driving innovation across the retail industry.

Winners will be announced later this year at the Creative Retail Awards 2025, the industry’s most anticipated event, bringing together leading brands, designers and decision-makers for a night of recognition, celebration and connection.

Scan the QR Code to see the full shortlist.

DALZIEL & POW LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE RETAIL SPACE IN SUZHOU, CHINA, FOR CHILDREN CLOTHING GIANT BALABALA

Global design and strategy studio Dalziel & Pow recently unveiled the eighth generation image space design for Balabala, a leading Chinese childrenswear brand. The first store in the series is located in Suzhou - which opened on 8th May 2025 - and the design concept will be gradually promoted to thousands of stores in the brand's global regions such as China, the Middle East and South East Asia.

Since the establishment of a strategic partnership in 2009 Dalziel & Pow has continued to help Balabala renew its brand image. The eighth-generation space image store has targeted the new generation of parents with the core concept of "growing together" and conveying the brand's trend-setting strength through fashionable and avantgarde design language.

The size of China's new generation of parents continues to expand, with highly educated and highly digitalised consumers accounting for more than 80% driving consumption upgrades. Facing the wave of quality consumption set off by China's millennial parents, Dalziel & Pow created a "mini catwalk show” experience area, which retains the brand's iconic fun elements while injecting a more textured spatial language to inspire young people to explore personalized dressing styles. The giant pedestal customised lighting installations and brand-exclusive color blocks collide to create a wonderful chemical reaction, building a fashion paradise full of childlike fun.

As the largest children's clothing brand in the Chinese market, Balabala covers all age groups from newborns to teenagers and has nearly 5000 stores in China. Its iconic creative silhouettes and color combinations continue to create aesthetic solutions for children's life in various scenarios such as camping and water activities.

Tim Gravelling Creative Director Dalziel & Pow: “Our 15-year partnership with Balabala has always been centered around the core idea of inspiring children to express themselves. The new store design not only reflects the brand's ambition to advance into a fashionable lifestyle but also continues its original focus on the children's group. This is not only a shopping space but also a fashion catwalk that inspires imagination allowing parents to enjoy the fun of shopping while igniting the infinite creativity of their children."

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HAMLEYS BRINGS ITS MAGIC TO KUWAIT: ICONIC BRAND OPENS ITS 9TH STORE IN THE GCC

Where wonder comes to life — a place for every child’s imagination to soar

Kuwait welcomed the world’s finest toy store as Hamleys launched a spectacular 1170 square meter store at The Avenues mall. Opening on May 31st, 2025, this landmark destination brings Hamleys’ signature magic to life.

Located in Kuwait’s largest and most prestigious lifestyle destination, The Avenues spans over 1.3 million square meters and features more than 1,000 stores across 12 themed districts, making it the perfect stage for Hamleys to enchant a brand-new audience.

This milestone opening marks Hamleys’ debut in Kuwait and its 9th store in the GCC, reinforcing the brand’s continued expansion across the region following its strong presence in the UAE and Qatar. The launch further strengthens Hamleys’ strategic partnership with the Middle East Retail Group—its trusted franchise partner in the region and a leading retail conglomerate known for bringing iconic global brands to the Middle Eastern market.

With its signature Hamleys theatre, live demos, and high-energy entertainment, the store promises to bring its quintessential vibrant redand-white world where imagination, play, and wonder come to life. Designed to delight children of all ages, it offers immersive experience zones that redefine traditional toy shopping. Visitors will be greeted by the iconic Hamleys characters, including Hamley and Hattie Bear, the toy soldier, circus ringmaster, and rag doll, sparking joy and fueling creativity at every turn.

A step into Hamleys at The Avenues, Kuwait brings an unforgettable experience. With over 10,000 toys

across 100+ brands, Hamleys’ arrival is more than just a store opening. Alongside beloved names like LEGO, Barbie, Hot Wheels, Marvel, Build-a-Bear, Bandai, and Candylicious, the store brings these brands to life in new, interactive ways. Exciting additions like Ralleyz, Hamleys’ own high-energy RC racetrack, and The Boutique, where kids can explore cosmetics, get their nails done, and create their own accessories, offer unique experiences for young visitors.

Sumeet Yadav, CEO of Hamleys Global says:

"We’ve been eager to open in Kuwait for quite some time, and The Avenues marks a significant and exciting moment in our journey to spread joy and wonder across the region. This store brings with it not just our iconic British heritage but a contagious spirit of fun, laughter, and smiles for everyone, young and old. The response to Hamleys’ arrival in new markets has always been

tremendous, and we’re confident that Kuwait City, with its world-class mall, will be no exception. As we continue to expand across the GCC, with locations in premier ‘The Avenues’ is the perfect stage for us to connect with more families and continue our mission to bring the magic of play to children everywhere."

Founded in 1760 by William Hamley, Hamleys was acquired in 2019 by Reliance Brands Limited (RBL), a subsidiary of Reliance Retail Ventures Limited (RRVL) — the retail arm of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), one of India’s largest and most diversified conglomerates. Hamleys, with 187 stores across 13 countries, remains rooted in its iconic Regent Street flagship — a legendary destination that continues to be one of the most visited spots in the UK. Hamleys’ global footprint continues to grow at pace, with exciting new openings in iconic cities such as Naples, Bergamo, Rome, Sharjah, Milan, Tirana, Pristina, and Doha — each one bringing the magic of play to a whole new audience.

Nabil Daud, CEO of Middle East Retail Company says:

“Bringing Hamleys to Kuwait is an honour — not just as a franchisee, but as someone who’s come to appreciate how deeply loved this brand already is here. So many Kuwaiti families have grown up with Hamleys, visited it abroad, and hold memories that go back generations. This store belongs to them. Our role is simply to bring that magic closer to home — with all the wonder, laughter, and play that Hamleys is known for.”

The opening day was marked by high-energy celebrations, including a vibrant parade through the mall, a traditional bell-ringing ceremony to officially open the doors, and lively appearances by beloved children’s characters and heroes — a truly special day filled with fun, excitement, and unforgettable moments.

His Majesty’s Ambassador to the State of Kuwait, Her Excellency Belinda Lewis says:

“Hamleys holds a special place in the hearts of many people in the UK, including mine. It’s wonderful to see this beloved British brand bring its magic to Kuwait. This opening - full of colour, music and laughter - was a delight to witness, and I was particularly happy that so many young customers could experience the excitement too. It’s a beautiful reflection of the strong and growing ties between our two countries - in business, culture and shared moments of fun.”

CLASSIFICATION: RESTRICTED UMDASCH THE STORE MAKERS

BRINGS ITALIAN LIFESTYLE TO DORNBIRN FOR LA MODA BERNARDO

Just in time for spring, the long-established family business opened its newly designed store in the heart of Dornbirn. Spanning around 350 square metres over two floors, umdasch The Store Makers realised and implemented the creative concept in its entirety. The result is an impressive shopping experience that showcases the owner family's Italian heritage, with an authentic atmosphere, emotional storytelling and high-quality craftsmanship.

A store like a trip to Pantelleria

As soon as visitors enter the store, they feel the Mediterranean lightness that underpins the design. Drawing inspiration from the small Italian island of Pantelleria, where the Bernardo family has its roots, the store has been designed to present fashion and tell the story of a family that has been bringing Italian style to Vorarlberg since 1974.

Design meets emotion – materials with meaning

The design concept is characterised by a stylish mix of raw natural materials and modern elements. Large arches run throughout the store, creating tension and ensuring openness while referencing Italian architecture. Natural

stone cladding on the walls gives the room a monumental feel, reminiscent of Sicily's striking facades. The irregular surface of the tiles and porcelain stoneware brings a handcrafted touch to the interior, creating an authentic feel. Black powder-coated metal shelves provide a purist contrast, lending the store a timeless elegance.

The materials have been deliberately chosen by the store designers to tell a story of life on Pantelleria: the island's rough stone, the lightness of fabric blowing in the narrow streets, marketplaces and family celebrations.

Highlights in all areas invite you to discover and linger

The basement men's area is connected to the ground floor via a large opening in the centre of the room. This

architectural feature creates an exciting visual axis between the levels and provides a striking setting for product presentations. An impressive artificial olive tree extending over both floors is at the centre of the store, giving the space a special atmosphere. A suspended bamboo mat ceiling creates a play of light and shadow, adding warmth and structure to the space.

The Store Makers have designed the changing room area to resemble a lively Italian piazza – a place where customers can not only try on clothes, but also linger, meet and consult. Characteristic arched entrances, framed by softly draped light fabrics, lead to individually designed cubicles, and Mediterranean plants, Italian background music and stone walls complete the scene. The result is an authentic setting for the personal, one-to-one consultations that have always been a hallmark of the family business.

At the heart of the store, customers are greeted by a lovingly designed checkout area that evokes the ambience of a traditional Italian café. With terracotta tiles and the enticing aromas of fragrant coffee or refreshing Aperol, the checkout is not a chore but a charming conclusion to a shopping experience full of Italian joie de vivre.

Italian flair from a single source

La Moda Bernardo is a prime example of the comprehensive service portfolio offered by umdasch The Store Makers, covering everything from conception and design to acting as the general contractor, as well as lighting design, furniture construction and installation. Particular attention was paid to developing individual shopfitting systems, including three-metre-high metal arch shelves and custom-made centre tables.

“As a designer, I thoroughly enjoyed bringing the Italian history of the Bernardo family to the store in Dornbirn. We were able to combine well-thought-out zoning with emotional brand staging in the concept, thereby creating a very special flair,” says Julia Mitteregger, Shop Consult Director at umdasch The Store Makers, concluding the project.

SYNERGY BETWEEN CRAFTSMANSHIP, ART, AND ARCHITECTURE

In the heart of Poznań’s Jeżyce district, often referred to as the Polish Berlin, at the intersection of Staszica and Szamarzewskiego streets, lies Atelier Gusta. This space is the result of an inspiring collaboration between GUSTA Jewellery, Von Motz, and mode:lina™.

It all began with a dilapidated grocery store featuring impressive, tall semicircular display windows covered with advertisements for popular salads. Located on the ground floor of a beautiful early 20th-century tenement house, both the premises and the building had been waiting for years to regain their former glory.

The task of renovating the space was entrusted to the designers from mode:lina™. This was a particularly challenging project due to years of neglect and the shop's very small size. The key feature of the entire design became the aforementioned display windows, towering 3 meters high and ending in semicircles. Their replacement marked the beginning of the renovation, with both their shape and color defining the character of the entire space.

In this small area, a kitchenette and a bathroom with storage space on a mini mezzanine were successfully incorporated. All of this was cleverly hidden behind concealed doors to maximize the retail area.

To keep the budget in check, the curved walls concealing the back rooms were coated with simple plaster mixed with appropriate pigments. The flooring was finished with epoxy paint commonly used for concrete floors in parking garages, complemented by green and white flakes that reference the display windows.

The space quickly found its tenant—GUSTA Jewellery.

Pearls, silver, gold, and natural stones bring brilliance to the jewelry crafted by Agnieszka Jankowiak. The creator of the Gusta brand, inspired by vanishing craftsmanship and the goldsmithing tradition, pays homage to nature in her designs. She is constantly captivated by sunsets, the sound of the sea, and the raw beauty of fossils. Art is also an inseparable part of her creative process, as seen in the Bauhaus collection, where irregular pearls balance on delicate silver threads, reminiscent of Lena Kowalewicz’s mobiles.

Atelier is Gusta’s new space, where a goldsmith’s workshop merges with a boutique. The Atelier also features small sculptural jewelry forms by designers whom Jankowiak admires. Steel shelves are warmed by amber polished by Emilia Kohut, the creator of ION ART, alongside symbolic signs from Mokave and geometric forms by Magdalena Paszkiewicz. For years, Gusta has been creating wedding bands, often using entrusted gold—each stroke of the file is intentional. Meetings with couples, getting to know them, and co-designing a symbol of love forged in gold are special moments in Agnieszka’s workshop.

The grand opening was accompanied by the exhibition "Glow and Spark: The Chemical Wedding" by Von Motz, where the artist presented thirteen works spanning various artistic disciplines—ceramics, sculpture, and painting. The exhibition was a tribute to the artist’s contribution to the

atelier’s creation. He designed its heart—a magical portal where jewelry is displayed.

In a fascinating fusion of art, alchemy, and spiritual symbolism, artist VON MOTZ presents an exhibition exploring the esoteric realms of magic and the occult, where alchemical transformation intertwines with the precision and craftsmanship of artistic jewelry.

At the core of the exhibition lies the concept of purification—distilling materials to their most essential form, a process deeply rooted in alchemical traditions known as The Chemical Wedding. Von Motz’s artistic approach emphasizes the reduction of materials, stripping them down to their purest essence.

The centerpiece of the exhibition is Portal No. 01, a monumental sculpture made of massive stone steps sourced from the historic Saint Roch Bridge in Poznań. The foundation consists of six sculpted stones, each adorned with alchemical symbols, forming a powerful gateway with a vast semicircular mirror at its center. This arrangement, reminiscent of an ancient drawing depicting steps leading to a doorway, evokes a profound sense of passage. The steps, historically associated with Saint Roch—the patron saint of pilgrims, travelers, and seekers of knowledge—now serve as a symbolic element of the portal, connecting realms and guiding visitors on a transformative journey. This evocative combination of stone, mirrors, and alchemical symbolism forms a strong foundation for Gusta Jewellery Atelier. Portal No. 01 serves both as an artistic statement and a display for Gusta’s collection, seamlessly blending the solidity of traditional craftsmanship with the artistic expression of historical goldsmithing. Steel, stone, and mirrors intertwine with antique tools, creating

a universe of elemental materials that underpin Gusta’s collection. This dynamic convergence of raw materials and alchemical symbolism invites a reconsideration of jewelry as both an art form and a process of transformation.

The final outcome has exceeded our wildest expectations. It stands as proof that the synergy between craftsmanship, art, and architecture leads to the creation of extraordinary spaces with a unique energy.

7 Re a s o n s w h y y o u s h o u l d o p t f o r s u s t a i n a b l e m a n n e q u i n s

In the fashion industry, brands are increasingly using creative direction to reframe conversations surrounding sustainability. How your market your newest collections matters! Fashion and sustainability go hand in hand and trace a new path that leads to the trends of Automne-Winter 2021-2022.

Our Future collection stands for simplicity and durability. Thanks to its raw concrete finish the colours of your clothing collection will stand out. You can alternate between the wooden arms for more movement or regular arms.This recyclable mannequin is truly timeless and can easily adapted.

ENSURING A GREENER FUTURE IN RETAIL WITH SUSTAINABLE SIGNAGE

By Rob Fletcher

With retailers under increasing pressure to become more sustainable, Retail Focus takes a look at how switching up your signage and working with more planet friendly materials can help shine a greener light on shops and stores.

It is no secret that the retail industry needs to become more sustainable. While we have already seen significant movement in this area with the introduction of schemes such as paper-based bags and in-store clothing recycling, the onus is on retailers to do more to reduce their impact on the environment.

Some often cite cost as the primary barrier when it comes to sustainability, with certain schemes requiring significant spend. However, there are other ways of improving your

Making better decisions

Up first to comment is Grey Hoole, co-founder and managing director of The Sign Group, a manufacturer of innovative signage, display, and lighting solutions for the trade. Hoole acknowledges there is more pressure on retailers to make sustainable choices, and this filters right through to signage.

“We’re seeing more requests for recycled and recyclable materials and a general expectation that suppliers can

environmental credentials without having to dip too far into your pockets.

One stand-out example is signage. This is something many retailers are already committing funds to, but by switching up the type of signage you are using, you can make significant steps forward with sustainability. Here, Retail Focus sits down with several specialists in this area to find out more about the options available to retailers.

explain what impact their products have,” Hoole said.

“That doesn’t mean everyone’s asking for carbon audits or full life cycle reports yet, but they do want to know what is being done to reduce waste, avoid landfill, and cut down emissions where possible.

“It’s not just about ticking a box anymore; people want to make better decisions and be able to back them up.”

As more businesses focus on reducing their carbon

footprint, Hoole said that signage comes under that umbrella. He added that while it may not always be the biggest slice of the pie, it is a visible one and if you are making claims about sustainability, signage has to back that up.

“We’ve also noticed retailers are more aware of where things are made,” Hoole commented. “Choosing a UKmade product makes a big difference, not just to lead times and quality control, but to the carbon footprint too. In fact, data shows that our UK-made Neonplus signs can produce up to 350 times less carbon than imported alternatives. That’s a huge difference, just by changing where you buy from.”

Going into more detail on Neonplus, this signage comes with certified CO2e data, allowing customers to see exactly what they are buying in terms of environmental impact. Hoole said The Sign Group is currently working on extending this to a new material the company has helped bring to market: a 30mm acrylic sheet made from 100% recycled content.

“It’s fully recyclable too, and early testing shows a reduction in carbon impact of around 47% compared to using virgin material; that’s a big step forward,” he said.

Respond to rising demand

Turning to printed signage, Soyang Europe has been devoted to producing environmentally friendly products for a number of years and offers a range of media options. Sales director Oliver Mashiter said by adopting an ecofriendly approach with signs and displays, this can help to align with the changing demands of customers and partners.

“While becoming sustainable is not something retailers can achieve overnight, there are some simple, yet effective, changes that they can implement immediately to support them in the longer run,” Mashiter said. “One of these is to take a look at the type of material you are using in signage and displays. Switching to more planet friendly options can shine a more sustainable light on a business and allow you to respond to rising demand.”

Addressing concerns about the costs of adopting sustainable practices, Mashiter said that investing in sustainability offers both immediate and long-term benefits that outweigh the initial expenditures.

“Historically, eco-friendly materials carried a significant price premium,” he said. “For instance, the cost of recycled polyethylene (PE) materials was once approximately

Above:

Neonplus products come with a five-year warranty as standard, which Hoole said reduces how often signs need replacing. He added: “It’s not just about using greener materials; it’s about using less over time. And of course, because everything’s made in-house here in Leeds, we’re not shipping goods halfway around the world. That alone can dramatically lower the environmental impact of a sign.”

30% higher than their non-recycled counterparts. Today, that difference has decreased to 5%, making sustainable options more financially accessible without compromising on quality.

“The demand for environmentally responsible products is growing. A significant portion of customers now prefer sustainable options, amid encouragement from their clients, who are often willing to pay a premium for them. By offering such solutions, businesses can attract new clients and enter into markets where sustainability is key, thereby enhancing their competitiveness.

“In time, prices will drop to be in line with PVC alternatives. As more demand grows, the price will fall and become more competitive; we are starting to see this with our Solar range.”

Other solutions within the backet at Soyang Europe include 601 RCY Starlight Backlit, which is made from 100% recycled ocean PET waste. Meanwhile, the SoTex collection of printable fabrics includes textiles for direct dye sublimation and transfer printing, as well as coated textiles for solvent, eco-solvent, UV and latex printers.

It’s not just about ticking a box anymore; people want to make better decisions and be able to back them up

While becoming sustainable is not something retailers can achieve overnight, there are some simple, yet effective, changes that they can implement immediately to support them in the longer run

Enhance your image

Another materials supplier is Drytac, which, like Soyang Europe, has a range of sustainable products on offer. Steve Payne, product specialist at Drytac, said with consumers seeking solutions that have less impact on the world, this is creating a competitive advantage for those offering sustainable options to their customers.

“Tying in with this is brand reputation, being sustainable can enhance a company’s image, positioning it as a responsible and forward-thinking brand, helping it secure business from customers that also place importance on the planet,” he said.

“Sustainable materials don't always come at a premium; many are competitively priced with traditional options. However, the idea of making a change can feel daunting. Whether it’s concerns around application methods, compatibility, or performance, switching to more sustainable solutions often comes down to education and reassurance. In reality, many of these products are just as easy to work with and can offer the same, if not better, results, along with the added benefit of aligning with evolving environmental expectations.”

With this, Payne said we should all be doing our part to reduce our environmental Impact, be it implementing changes in business or altering the way we go about our daily lives. He added that sustainable practices help reduce waste, conserve resources, and lower carbon footprints, contributing to a healthier planet, and this will not be going away any time soon.

Drytac products that may be of interest to retailers include SpotOn SynTac, a polypropylene wall and window graphic media developed for simple, easy, and tool-free installation. There is also Polar Street FX, a PVC-free, aluminium print media designed for outdoor floor and wall graphics, with no lamination required, as well as Polar PET 170, a printable polyester PET film that is PVC-free.

Other options include ViziPrint Impress Clear, an optically clear PET film for vibrant window graphics, screen displays, and appliance branding and ReTac Clear PET, which, with ReTac’s permanently peelable adhesive, is an effective choice for windows, walls, and countertop graphics, removable cleanly even years later.

Meet environmental performance standards

In addition to material choice, retailers may wish to consider the type of technology used to print signage. This can relate to the print partners you are working with or your own printing machinery, if you elect to bring work in-house.

HP has long been an advocate for sustainable production, and this can be seen within its HP Latex range. This features many large-format printers that all run HP Latex ink, while graphics printed using this technology can be fully recycled when reaching their end of use, if printed on sustainable media.

“HP Latex inks do not contain any Hazardous Air Pollutants (HAPs), while they are also non-flammable and noncombustible,” said Noelle Peutat, global strategic sustainability lead for the large-

Below: HP Planet Partners is HP’s consumer repurpose and recycling program for HP end-of-life equipment and printing supplies.

format printing business at HP. “Add in that HP Latex ink is supplied in cardboard packs that can be recycled once they are empty, and this offers a simple yet effective route to more sustainable operating practices.

“In addition, the latest generation of HP Latex Inks are UL ECOLOGO certified, meaning they meet a range of stringent environmental performance standards and human health criteria.”

Peutat that HP’s focus stretches beyond its machinery, saying it is committed to supporting retailers in the long-term. Peutat said: “From smaller shops on the high street to large supermarkets, it is imperative for retailers to adapt to help satisfy demand from customers.”

With this, Peutat flagged certain auxiliary services. These include HP Planet Partners, its consumer repurpose and recycling program for HP end-of-life equipment and printing supplies.

Peutat said customers can also accelerate their print sustainability journey with the HP Sustainability Amplifier program, which part of HP PrintOS. This, Peutat added, offers tools, insights and recognition to advance their sustainability journey, with key features such as self-assessment and benchmarking, personalised recommendations, actionable resources, sustainability services, and recognition and differentiation.

“By repurposing materials and securely and responsibly recycling waste, print companies are helping reduce the environmental impact of electronic waste and greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting a more circular economy – helping to improve their own environmental credentials in the process,” Peutat said.

Making simple yet effective changes to the way you produce sign and display materials can have a significant impact on your sustainability. Consider speaking with suppliers to find out about the options available to you and how this can improve your credentials.

Sustainable materials don't always come at a premium; many are competitively priced with traditional options

NORT GS Mini.

The compact yet powerful spotlight. A retail lighting solution with finesse, technical excellence and sustainability.

• Choose either a reflector or lens to dial up efficiency or light quality depending on your lighting requirements

• Designed to be circular, its modular design approach enables easy servicing and upgrades with 71% being recycled or reused at end of life

DISRUPT THE ORDINARY: HOW NEONPLUS® SIGNAGE TRANSFORMS SHOPPER JOURNEYS AND BOOSTS RETAIL PERFORMANCE

By Sarah Marshall, The Sign Group

The Power of Disruption in Retail

Today’s shopper is time-poor, decision-fatigued, and constantly bombarded with visual and digital noise. With attention spans shorter than ever, grabbing attention — and keeping it — has become a key challenge for retailers.

In this environment, disruption isn’t just useful — it’s essential.

Signage has evolved far beyond basic wayfinding. It now plays a pivotal role in shaping customer experience, reinforcing brand identity, and triggering purchase

behaviour. Done well, it becomes part of the journey — a branded, emotional moment that resets the shopper’s mental state and draws them into the space.

In this article, we explore how Neonplus® illuminated signage is being used by retailers to create deliberate moments of disruption. Through data, real-world examples, and insights from our team, we’ll examine how signage can enhance shopper journeys, increase footfall, extend dwell time, and drive measurable commercial returns.

Why Shopper Journey Disruption Through Signage Works

A growing body of data shows that visual disruption at key touchpoints plays a direct role in shopper decision-making.

• Footfall increases by up to 30% when illuminated signage is used strategically in external fascia or windows (Sign Research Foundation, 2019).

• Dwell time in key zones can double when lighting features are used to create contrast, emotion, or moments of surprise (RetailNext, 2021).

• Retailers using digital signage report an average 32% sales uplift, with ad recall 55% higher than static displays (AIScreen.io, 2025).

• Customer satisfaction improves by 46% when signage is integrated into the store experience (Mvix. com, 2025).

This is particularly relevant in high-turnover environments or new store launches, where first impressions can make or break performance.

“Retail’s biggest enemy is predictability,” says Grey Hoole,

MD of The Sign Group. “If a customer can walk your store on autopilot, you’ve already lost the sale — especially when you’re launching something new. Clever signage disrupts that rhythm. It makes people stop and feel something. That’s when decisions start.”

Whether it’s subtle lighting that frames a hero product or bold illuminated elements that transform an entry zone, these moments of disruption tap into emotional engagement — and that, in turn, drives action.

Illuminating Shopper Journeys: From Concept to Impact

While we can’t share client-specific projects as our contracts are confidential, the principles of disruptive signage can be seen across countless retail environments. Imagine this:

A premium lifestyle store launches its new season range with a feature wall of curved Neonplus® lettering, each character lit in a gradient that shifts subtly as customers move past. Footfall data shows shoppers spending twice as

long in that part of the store, with a 28% increase in related product sales over the next month.

Or picture a high street beauty brand installing a suspended halo-lit slogan above its fragrance bar. The glow draws in passers-by, and the signage becomes an Instagram hotspot — generating hundreds of organic posts within weeks.

These aren’t fantasy — they’re scenarios built from measurable industry trends:

• Dwell time uplift: Research shows that immersive lighting design can increase shopper dwell time by up to 30%, directly influencing purchase likelihood.

• Social amplification: Retail experiences designed with “photo moments” in mind generate up to 40% more organic social reach.

• Sustainability influence: 67% of shoppers say a brand’s sustainability credentials influence purchase decisions — making CO₂e-certified, recyclable signage an asset to both marketing and ESG.

Designer’s Playbook: 3 Quick Wins with Neonplus®

1. Draw them in – Use illuminated features in hightraffic thresholds to stop passers-by in their tracks.

2. Create a focal zone – Position statement pieces where you want shoppers to pause, linger, and explore.

3. Make it sharable – Design for the smartphone lens; lighting that photographs well will travel far.

Whether you’re shaping a pop-up, refreshing a flagship, or designing for a shopping centre, the principle holds: signage that blends craft, technology, and storytelling isn’t background décor — it’s the spark that transforms the shopper journey.

Best Practices: Designing Signage for Maximum Impact

Creating signage that truly delivers starts with planning around the shopper journey. Here are five key principles to consider:

1. Know your zones.

Entry points, key transition areas, hero displays, and checkout zones are the moments that matter most. These are where signage earns its keep.

2. Brand-first design.

Lighting and signage should reflect your identity. A strong colour palette, material selection, and lighting tone (warm vs cool) should support your brand’s look and feel.

3. Less can be more.

“Designing signage isn’t about shouting louder — it’s about control,” says Hoole. “The right sign, in the right place, with the right intensity, does far more than an over-lit space.”

The Science Behind Signage Disruption

Why does illuminated signage work so well in retail? The research is clear: The Numbers Behind Signage Disruption

+30% footfall

Strategic illuminated signage in windows or fascia can increase passing trade by nearly a third.

Source: Sign Research Foundation, 2019

Up to 2× dwell time

Lighting features that create contrast or emotion can double the time shoppers spend in key zones.

Source: RetailNext, 2021

32% average sales uplift

Retailers using digital signage report higher sales versus static displays, with 55% better ad recall.

Source: AIScreen.io, 2025

46% higher customer satisfaction

When signage is integrated into store design, shoppers rate their experience nearly 50% better.

Source: Mvix.com, 2025

+40% organic social reach

‘Photo moment’ installations drive significantly more shares, tags, and usergenerated content.

Industry trend analysis

67% sustainability influence Two-thirds of shoppers say a brand’s eco-credentials affect whether they buy.

Source: Capgemini Research Institute, 2023

+10–18% sales uplift

Observed in promoted zones using Neonplus® illuminated signage.

TSG internal data

4. Avoid common pitfalls.

Clashing styles, inconsistent materials, poor placement, or non-dimmable lighting can work against you. Always view signage as part of the holistic design — not a bolt-on.

5. Build in sustainability.

The ROI of Illuminated Signage

Illuminated signage should be seen as a performance tool, not a cosmetic extra. Retailers using Neonplus® have reported improvements across multiple metrics:

• Sales uplift in promoted zones: +10–18%

• Increased dwell time and shopper interaction with displays

Neonplus® signage is built with low-energy LEDs, modular construction, and recyclable materials. In a sector under pressure to cut carbon and meet ESG goals, signage should be part of the solution, not the problem. With 72% of consumers saying sustainability affects purchasing (Capgemini, 2023), this isn’t just good practice — it’s smart business.

• Higher social engagement (user-generated content, tags, shares)

• Improved brand perception and return visits

“Lighting isn’t just for atmosphere,” says Hoole. “It’s directional, strategic, and measurable. It guides the customer toward the decision you want them to make.”

Looking Ahead: The Future of In-Store Signage

Signage is rapidly evolving in response to retail’s changing demands. According to Hoole, the key trends shaping the future are:

• Programmable and reactive signage that adapts in real-time to campaigns, seasons, or even time of day

• Sustainable materials and circular design, as ESG and lifecycle thinking become central to brand strategy

• Integration with mobile and digital journeys, bridging the gap between physical space and online engagement

Time to Rethink Signage

Signage is no longer just an operational requirement. It’s a powerful, emotive, and high-performing asset in retail design. When done well, it enhances storytelling, guides behaviour, and drives measurable returns — all while reinforcing your brand.

As shopper expectations continue to evolve, now’s the time to rethink how you use signage to shape the experience. Whether you’re opening a new store or refreshing an existing one, Neonplus® signage helps you disrupt the ordinary — and create something memorable

• AI-personalised content, where signs shift messaging based on shopper profiles, store data, or region

With 28% of shoppers now saying they visit stores primarily for the experience, rather than the product (Salesforce, 2025), signage is becoming a front-line tool in driving loyalty, curiosity, and brand immersion.

“We’re seeing a clear move toward signage that can flex with campaign demands and consumer behaviour,” says Hoole. “The goal remains the same: make the customer look twice — and stay longer.”

In Their Words: Grey Hoole on Signage that Sells.

“Retail’s biggest enemy is predictability. If a customer can walk your store on autopilot, you’ve already lost the sale. Clever signage disrupts that rhythm. It makes people stop and feel something — that’s when decisions start.”

“Lighting isn’t just for atmosphere. It’s directional, strategic, and measurable. It guides the customer toward the decision you want them to make.”

“We’re seeing a clear move toward signage that can flex with campaign demands and consumer behaviour. The goal remains the same: make the customer look twice — and stay longer."

FROM SCARCITY TO SENSATION: WHY POP-UPS ARE THE NEW POWER MOVE IN LUXURY RETAIL

By Ghalia Boustani – Ephemeral Retailing Specialist | Published Author | Podcast Host

Luxury has always been about desire. But today, desire is shaped by experience, exclusivity, and, more than ever, ephemerality. The once-rigid world of luxury retail— rooted in grand flagships and heritage façades—is shifting. In its place, we're seeing something more fleeting, more emotional: the luxury pop-up.

Over the years, my work has focused on the intersection of retail, temporality, and emotion. What was once considered a marketing gimmick has become a strategic pillar for some of the biggest names in fashion and beauty. In this article, I explore how ephemeral formats are helping luxury brands test new markets, seduce younger audiences, and create experiences that live far beyond their short lifespan.

Why It Matters?

Today’s luxury brands are not just selling handbags, fragrances, or tailored jackets. They're offering moments—short-lived but highly curated experiences that leave a long-lasting impression. Think about Dior taking over a beachfront villa in Mykonos. Or Jacquemus transforming a mundane Parisian metro station into an all-pink universe. These aren’t just pop-ups—they’re statements. These experiences allow brands to: test the cultural and commercial pulse of a city, connect with experience-driven Gen Z and Millennial consumers, spark online buzz and media attention and reinvent brand storytelling in real time.

This isn’t retail as usual. This is retail as theatre. Let’s look at what makes luxury pop-ups distinct—and why they’ve become the new frontier for brands with something to say.

The Anatomy of an Ephemeral Luxury Pop-Up Stores

Luxury pop-up stores are more than temporary retail spaces—they are intentional, meticulously curated experiences designed to resonate deeply with a specific kind of customer. Unlike general pop-ups, which often rely on novelty to attract attention and encourage exploration, luxury pop-ups are defined by their exclusivity and rarity. Their sense of uniqueness doesn't stem from being new, but from being almost unattainable, crafted to intrigue and reward a select audience. The immersive experience within these spaces goes beyond thematic staging; it engages multiple senses and is deeply aligned with the brand’s DNA. From bespoke scents to carefully designed soundscapes, every element serves to envelop the visitor in a cohesive and emotionally charged narrative.

Location plays a strategic role as well. While general pop-ups favor accessible and high-footfall venues,

luxury pop-ups are placed in symbolic, often prestigious settings—locations that themselves speak to the values of the brand and the status of the guest. Similarly, the social atmosphere diverges sharply: where general popups welcome spontaneity and openness, luxury popups are intimate, operating with curated guest lists and personalized invitations. Engagement in these spaces is less about playful interaction and more about meaningful, often appointment-based exchanges that deepen the brand-customer relationship. The multichannel dimension follows suit. Instead of simply linking to e-commerce platforms, luxury pop-ups are tied seamlessly into broader service ecosystems, offering follow-up experiences, private consultations, or bespoke delivery services.

Operationally, general pop-ups lean on flexibility and speed, whereas luxury pop-ups emphasize precision and perfection. Every detail, down to the scent of the air or the pacing of background music, is carefully executed to create an elevated environment. Sustainability, which may be an afterthought in some general formats, is increasingly a foundational expectation in the luxury space. It’s not just about being eco-conscious, but about aligning with the

customer’s personal values and the brand’s long-term commitments. Personalization is another dividing line. In general pop-ups, it's a pleasant addition; in luxury, it’s essential.

Anticipating customer preferences and adapting the experience accordingly is key to making each visitor feel seen and valued. Event programming also takes on a different meaning. While it may energize a general pop-up, it is integral to the luxury experience—artist collaborations, panels, or performances are not side shows but core expressions of the brand’s cultural positioning.

When all these elements come together—novelty, immersion, location, intimacy, engagement, integration, detail, sustainability, personalization, and cultural programming—they create a powerful formula. But what truly gives this formula its meaning is the presence of the customer. They are not just at the center of the experience; they are the reason it exists. In this way, luxury pop-up stores transcend commerce. They become curated moments of belonging, ephemeral spaces where the customer doesn’t just shop—they become part of the story.

VARIABLE GENERAL POP-UP STORES

NOVELTY & UNIQUENESS Key to standing out

IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE

STRATEGIC LOCATION

SOCIAL DIMENSION

BRAND ENGAGEMENT

Thematic and engaging

Accessible and surprising

Open and interactive

Hands-on and playful

MULTICHANNEL INTEGRATION Linked with e-commerce

OPERATIONAL DETAIL Agile and flexible

SUSTAINABILITY Occasionally addressed

PERSONALIZATION

LUXURY POP-UP STORES

Defined by exclusivity and rarity

Multi-sensory, aligned with brand DNA

Symbolic, prestigious, and highly curated

Intimate, with a curated guest list

Personalized, often appointment-based

Seamlessly tied to luxury service ecosystems

Impeccably executed, down to scent and sound

Increasingly expected, and brand-aligned

A bonus A must

EVENT PROGRAMMING Adds energy and interest

Who’s Doing It Right?

Dior’s “Timeless Glamour, Reimagined Seasonally”. From Courchevel to Portofino, Dior’s seasonal boutiques echo the rhythms of elite travel. These aren’t just shops—they’re dreamlike interpretations of Dior’s latest collections. Think poolside cabanas reimagined in Dior’s signature Toile de Jouy. They’re beautifully orchestrated worlds that extend the catwalk into the real world.

Jacquemus focuses on “Retail as Whimsy”. Whether it's a pastel-toned vending machine or a holiday pop-up in Galeries Lafayette, Jacquemus knows how to surprise. His ephemeral projects don’t just sell clothes—they tell a story, blur lines with art, and stay deeply Instagrammable. They feel like journal entries rather than transactions.

“Luxury Reimagined” with Glossier & Rare Beauty. While not haute couture, these beauty brands have mastered the ephemeral. Their pop-ups are crafted to trigger emotion and community. Everything from the scent to the selfie mirror is deliberate. It proves that today’s idea of “luxury” is no longer bound by price tags—it’s about experience, feeling, and belonging.

Integral—think panels, performances, artist collabs

Here are 5 Tips for Brands Entering the World of Ephemeral Luxury

1. Start with Storytelling: Skip the hard sell. Create a world, a chapter, a memory. People want to feel something.

2. Design for Two Audiences: Your visitors and your virtual viewers. Think about the in-person experience and its shareability online.

3. Use Scarcity Thoughtfully: Don’t just make it hard to get into—make it worth the effort. Scarcity should heighten value, not frustrate.

4. Curate with Intention: Bring in unexpected voices. A poet. A chef. A ceramicist. Add cultural weight to the brand story.

5. Think Circular, Not Just Temporary: A pop-up shouldn’t leave a trace of waste. Build it to evolve, reuse, and inspire. Sustainability is becoming a quiet luxury in itself.

Ephemeral, Yet Eternal. At first glance, pop-ups might seem like fleeting flirtations in the luxury landscape. But their real power lies in how they linger—in photos, in memory, in conversation. They are temporary, yes, but intentionally so. Their impermanence is precisely what makes them unforgettable. And maybe, in today’s overstimulated world, that’s what luxury really is: something rare, something beautifully brief, something worth chasing.

SHINE BRIGHTER WITH EFFECTIVE IN-STORE LIGHTING

By Rob Fletcher

Lighting continues to play an important role in retail environments, helping to set the mood and improve overall experience for customers. Retail Focus takes a closer look at the various methods and techniques in this area.

Whether it is something as simple as spotlights highlighting display pieces around a shop or a more advanced installation that forms part of the customer’s in-store journey, lighting is a crucial part of the retail experience for consumers. After all, nobody wants to go shopping in a dark and dim store that leaves little to the imagination.

Of course, some form of standard lighting is almost certainly apparent in all stores, but it is what the retailer does with their lighting options that will really help set them apart from other shops. What bright ideas have retailers had and what are specialists in this sector offering and developing to help them achieve these creative visions?

In this feature, Retail Focus runs the rule over some of the latest lighting options available to those in the retail sector and gains insight into what some stores are doing to capitalise on these new developments.

Cutting edge solutions

Kicking off the proceedings with a fresh innovation is Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) solutions specialist Netgenium, which, based in Tyne & Wear, has recently rolled out its new Internet Protocol (IP) LED displays.

Designed to withstand harsh commercial and industrial environments, while also providing improved protection against dust and water ingress, the PoE-powered LED

displays can be used to showcase company messages, videos, graphics and various other content. This, the company said, makes them ideal for use in a range of smart retail and real-time information systems.

Netgenium said quick and seamless system integration is provided with power and data delivered directly to each display unit through a single cable, allowing for a streamlined network installation for operators. In addition, it can be fully integrated with Netgenium and partner software solutions to offer comprehensive network-wide IP connectivity and functionality to all critical points of a facility or building.

“IP-based technologies are at the cutting edge of reliable, efficient and future-proof networking solutions,

Left: Netgenium recently rolled out its new Internet Protocol (IP) LED displays

providing a wide range of security and operational benefits for both users and system integrators,”

Netgenium said.

“Offering significant financial benefits thanks to simplified installation, cabling routing and network infrastructure

Branding tool

Another specialist in this area is Shoplight, whose CEO, Mark Shortland, said lighting is one of the most powerful tools retailers have to influence customer perception and buying behaviour.

“Good lighting creates a welcoming environment with a sense of anticipation, encouraging customers to stay longer and engage more,” Shortland said. “Tuned correctly, lighting can act as a personal shopping assistant, guiding customers through the store and encouraging them to buy through the use of contrast, colour definition and by creating a tacit understanding of the brand and its values.

“Strategic lighting guides the customer journey, highlighting hero products, focal points, or new

configuration, integral state-of-the-art control technology offers a host of quick and easy to use functions and features at the user’s fingertips - all of which are available and managed from a central point.”

collections. It subtly signals hierarchy, helping customers navigate without confusion, driving attention where it matters most. Lighting isn’t just about visibility; it’s also a branding tool.”

Shortland went on to say that lighting is one of the most subtle, yet powerful, tools to shape perception, drive engagement, and influence purchasing decisions, adding that with 80% of retail sensory information being visual, lighting determines what the eye is drawn to first.

“Contrast and accent lighting are known to help increase attention to a product, compared to homogenously lit areas,” he said. “Our lighting designers use strategic lighting to improve product definition, highlighting shape, colour, and texture, especially for apparel, cosmetics,

jewellery, and food. In contrast, poor lighting can cause key displays to fade into the background, reducing their visual and commercial impact.”

Shortland added that lighting can influence a customer’s perception of the space and brand through the use of colour temperature. He explained warm, soft lighting creates a relaxed and comfortable mood, encouraging longer dwell times. On the other hand, cooler, brighter lighting can increase alertness and pace, a method used effectively in fast-paced environments like supermarkets or high-volume retail.

“In fact, studies by the Journal of Consumer Psychology Studies show that lighting can boost mood, perceived product quality, and even willingness to spend,” he added.

As to how Shoplight can help, Shortland highlighted the company’s latest innovation in its sustainable biopolymer range, namely the NORT GS Mini and Piston Bio.

Billing NORT GS Mini as transformative, Shortland said this delivers a modern and efficient aesthetic in a compact solution while lighting a space efficiently. He said users can light their retail space with up to 1700 lumen optimised thermal architecture, 350 degrees of rotation and 90 degrees of angle adjustment.

Meanwhile, the Piston Bio and its similar optimised thermal architecture offers what Shoplight described as “small but impactful recessed downlight” with customisable outer bezels. Its refined compact design allows for more space so that clusters of light can be used for visual effect. The Piston

Bio and NORT GS Mini are made in the UK and 3D printed from biopolymers, delivering retailers a true choice when it comes to the sustainability of the products they specify and buy.

Also from Shoplight are the Lens LQ and Reflector LE, currently available on the NORT GS Mini and Piston Bio, and soon to be rolled out to other biopolymer products.

“In the lens, the light beam is more evenly diffused, with a soft, gradual fall-off around the edges,” Shortland said. “This creates a homogenous beam of light ideal for uniform illumination with minimal glare or harsh shadows.

“In the reflector, the light beam is more intense at the centre, with a sharper fall-off around the edges. This creates a more intense ‘hot spot’ in the middle of the beam with higher contrast, which can be used effectively when accent lighting.”

Aside from these solutions, Shoplight’s most popular biopolymer solution is the NORT GS, a track-mounted spotlight that is also UK-made from biopolymers and which forms part of the Buy-Back commitment within the company’s Circu-Light sustainability commitment. The company believe this buy-back is unique amongst its retail lighting competitors and these products have been recently used in a number of Regent Street flagship stores, including Lululemon, NIKE, GANT, Charles Tyrwhitt and Vuori along with the newly opened Moss, just around the corner on Oxford Street.

Craft entire brand world

Switching attention to lighting in action within a retail environment, South American home and household goods chain Casaideas recently partnered with Ansorg, a specialist in retail lighting, to create a holistic lighting concept for the opening of its first Home Store in the brand’s new visual identity.

Located inside the iconic Mall Alto Las Condes in Santiago, Chile, the new 1,033sq m store is a pilot project for the company’s rebranding of its international network of over 95 locations at various sites. German-based Ansorg took up the task of translating the new corporate design into a compelling lighting experience.

“The lighting project seeks to create a delicate balance between orientation, well-being, and emotional impact,” said Inés Olea, lighting designer at Ansorg. “Light becomes a subtle, inspiring, and brand-defining guide."

Ansorg using a mix of suspended track lights, recessed spotlights, linear lighting systems, and discreetly integrated wall washers to create a lighting scheme that accentuates textures, colours and materials inside the store.

Highlights – no pun intended – of the project included so-called ‘Inspiration Points’, central areas of the store

designed to evoke emotion and invite lingering. These points were framed with linear lights, both in the storefront and the interior, to create what Ansorg described as a “a cohesive visual framework” that ties together the shopping experience.

Working closely with the Casaideas store planning team in Santiago, Ansorg also focused on making the project as sustainable as possible. Energy consumption of 17 W/ sq m meant the lighting system fulfilled environmental requirements, while Ansorg also said that the precise alignment of the fixtures supported efficient resource use in terms of energy consumption and maintenance flexibility.

“The new Casaideas store is more than just another location; it serves as a blueprint for an entire brand universe. It demonstrates how interior design, shopfitting, and lighting can blend into a multisensory shopping experience,” Ansorg said. “For decision-makers in brickand-mortar retail, particularly in the home and decor sectors, this project offers inspiration and guidance on how light can be used not just to illuminate products but to craft entire brand worlds.”

Shape the customer experience

Rounding up this feature is Richard Browbek, the owner of Lighting Design Online, an expert in lighting solutions and advice. According to Browbek, in the competitive retail landscape, success is not just about what you sell; it is about how your space makes people feel, and nothing shapes that feeling more profoundly than lighting.

“Lighting is invisible until it’s wrong,” he said. “But when it’s right, it elevates everything: your products, your branding, your customer experience, and even your staff’s energy.

“The right lighting doesn’t just reveal your space, it defines it. It can create warmth, excitement, calm, or curiosity. It can invite customers in from the street, slow their pace, draw their eye to a feature display, or make a product feel more luxurious. In short, lighting tells your story.

“Strategic lighting transforms the retail journey. Spotlights can highlight a bestseller. Soft backlighting can make changing rooms feel more flattering. Warm zones can invite touch, while cooler light suggests efficiency or clarity. Daylight integration can ground the customer in a natural rhythm, especially in larger environments.”

Beyond aesthetics, Browbek said lighting plays a vital role in wellbeing. For staff spending long hours on the shop

floor, he said a well-designed lighting scheme reduces eye strain, boosts concentration, and improves mood, contributing to better service and lower turnover rates. While for customers, it is about comfort, ease, and creating a sense of delight that encourages them to linger, explore, and buy.

“When used effectively, lighting creates a sense of flow, subtly guiding customers through the space and shaping their experience at every step,” he said.

On this, Browbek said Lighting Design Online specialises in helping retailers unlock the full power of lighting, whether launching a concept store or refreshing a flagship location. Its services include creative lighting design, visual merchandising support, product sourcing and technical delivery.

“We make it simple; you share your vision we’ll turn it into light,” he said.

Clearly, there is plenty to think about when it comes to instore lighting. Partnering with companies and specialists such as those mentioned here will unlock many options for retailers and allow them to showcase their stores in a whole new light.

LIGHTING WITH PURPOSE: SHOPLIGHT’S DYNAMIC DESIGN FOR LULULEMON’S REGENT STREET FLAGSHIP

Lululemon’s flagship store on London’s Regent Street represents more than just a retail destination, it’s a statement of intent. As the brand’s largest store in the EMEA region, covering a striking 8,923 square feet, the space sets a bold architectural tone that needed an equally ambitious lighting solution. Shoplight was entrusted with delivering a scheme that not only complemented the scale and sophistication of the store but also enhanced the brand’s dynamic retail experience.

At the heart of their approach was a commitment to elevating the customer journey through a layered, highperformance lighting design that balances energy, precision, and mood across two expansive levels. Every element of the lighting strategy was carefully considered to support the architectural structure of the store while reflecting Lululemon’s premium, wellness-focused ethos.

The lighting scheme included a combination of NORT GS track spotlights in narrow, medium, and wide beam angles, working in tandem with Steeler Line Recessed fixtures to provide a soft yet vibrant ambient light. This not only illuminated the store evenly but also brought out the full depth of colour and texture in Lululemon’s activewear, making each garment feel tactile and visually compelling.

For more focused zones, such as cashier points and fitting rooms, they used Raider Bio fixtures to deliver crisp task lighting where clarity was essential. The aim was to ensure comfort without compromise, a space where customers could easily assess fit and colour in a natural-feeling light.

Visual storytelling was also central to the design. Around the store’s perimeter, LED Neon Flex was integrated to enhance ambient levels while adding definition to architectural features. This subtle but effective layer of lighting draws attention to curated display walls and key merchandise moments, guiding the eye and encouraging the direction of the customer journey throughout the store.

A stand-out feature of this store was the custom-made colour-changing staircase lighting. Engineered to capture attention and emotion, the lighting pulses gently with colour, creating a sense of movement and play. This immersive element not only reinforces the brand’s connection to joy, mindfulness and energy but also invites customers to journey upward, discovering the full extent of the space.

This project exemplifies Shoplight’s core philosophy, that lighting should not only serve a practical function but also deepen emotional engagement. By seamlessly blending form with function, our team delivered a lighting solution that aligns with Lululemon’s bold aesthetic and retail ambitions, while elevating the everyday into something extraordinary.

HOW CAN THE RETAIL INDUSTRY INCREASE ITS RESILIENCE TO CYBERSECURITY ATTACKS?

Cybersecurity expert shares how retailers can tighten their security measures against cyberattacks this year, following a destructive Q2.

In the last two months, the retail sector has been heavily targeted by cyber criminals, with the Marks & Spencer cyber attack leaving the chain now facing a class action lawsuit from customers whose personal details were leaked over the Easter Weekend.

The attack on the retailer in April led to the theft of personal, customer and staff information, including phone numbers, dates of birth, home addresses and online ordering histories being exposed to the millions. The issue has caused online orders and orders to store to be halted until its new internal system has been updated and rolled out.

Five weeks on from the cybersecurity disaster, reports this week have been released stating that luxury jewellery brand Cartier and outdoor fashion retailer The North Face are the latest victims of cyber attacks, wreaking havoc on

1. Sole responsibility is a critical mistake

“Relying solely on the CISO to manage cybersecurity is risky and outdated. The sophisticated April 2025 cyberattacks on M&S and Co-op, have since been attributed to the Scattered Spider hacker collective using DragonForce ransomware. This demonstrates that cyber threats exploit vulnerabilities

2. Shared responsibility across key roles

“Cybersecurity accountability must be shared across multiple organisational roles. Tech teams deploying applications must embed security controls, developers require guidance on secure coding practices, marketing

the sector.

Conor O’Neill, CEO and Co-Founder of leading penetration testing vendor OnSecurity, shares his expertise, advising retailers on how they can improve their cyber resilience following the string of ongoing attacks this quarter.

“The devastating April 2025 cyberattacks on M&S and Co-op are a reminder that relying solely on centralised cybersecurity leaves retailers dangerously exposed. Retailers must urgently distribute cybersecurity responsibilities across all roles, integrate robust security processes into daily workflows, and empower staff through continuous education to combat increasingly sophisticated threats.

“My advice to senior leaders in the retail space, who have the ability to influence and improve their cybersecurity operations and resilience, can be found below.”

across all organisational functions. Accountability must extend beyond a single role, with senior leaders across departments actively involved in managing cybersecurity risks.

and data teams should rigorously manage data privacy, and frontline support teams must receive targeted training to combat sophisticated social engineering tactics, like those used in recent attacks.

3. Embed security by default into workflows

“Retailers must integrate security into everyday business processes, such as DevOps pipelines, procurement procedures, and customer support protocols, to proactively address risks. The breaches at M&S, which disrupted online

sales and caused £30 million in losses, underline the necessity of security-by-design to mitigate risks before they escalate into operational crises.

4. Continuous, role-based education is essential

“Cybersecurity education should be ongoing and tailored to specific threats relevant to each role. Regular simulations, phishing tests, and continuous briefings ensure employees remain vigilant and adaptive. The breaches might have

been significantly mitigated if M&S and Co-op staff had been better trained to identify the social engineering tactics used in the recent attacks.

5. Empower and celebrate security champions

“Recognising and rewarding proactive security behaviours from employees across all levels helps foster an effective security culture. Retailers should encourage security vigilance beyond IT teams, motivating every staff member to actively participate in safeguarding the organisation.

Educating employees in cybersecurity is one of the most important strategies for increasing cyber resilience across your entire company, rather than just from the source of your IT department. It is important for employees to understand their responsibility towards risk management and incident response and planning to enhance the security posture of the organisation as a whole.

6. Incident response training

“While it’s crucial to monitor, analyse and flag potential threats, the response to threats is just as important. To be truly cyber resilient, every business must have a robust incident response plan in case of a breach.

Part of that plan includes equipping employees with the tools and understanding in the event of an incident. Many businesses choose to do this by carrying out simulations and drills to test employees under the ‘pressure’ of a reallife, high-stress situation. These scenarios will mimic a real attack, (i.e. a data breach or a ransomware incident) to test employees on their reactions to a practical threat, as well as

Despite the increase in AI usage in cyber attacks, research reveals that human error remains the most common threat*. Key training topics for your workforce may include phishing, password hygiene and two-factor authentication, all of which help secure a fundamental defence across the organisation.

All businesses should prioritise having a cybersecurity training programme in place for their employees, keeping it refreshed and up to date as the attack landscape evolves. Comprehensive staff cybersecurity training should take place at least once a year, with smaller training being rolled out as and when relevant. Employee education is the foundation of a business’s cyber defence, particularly when it comes to cyber resilience.

testing the company’s threat response plan as a whole.

The most crucial part of an incident response plan is clear, concise communication. Employees must know who to report incidents to, as well as how to report them efficiently to save crucial time in the event of a security incident.

Cyber resilience is about responding, not just preventing. Educating the workforce is therefore crucial in developing a comprehensive Incident Response Plan in which staff can efficiently and effectively report threats to contain them as much as possible before responding to them, minimising the risk window for potential exploitation”.

For more information and advice regarding the insights outlined above, please speak to one of our specialists who can support you with the best way to protect systems from unauthorised access and potential data breaches: https://www.onsecurity.io/penetration-test-quote/

THE ROLE OF VISUAL MERCHANDISING IN ENHANCING SALES POTENTIAL

Visual merchandising is an essential tool for retailers aiming to boost sales and improve customer experience. It involves strategically presenting products in a physical space to engage customers and encourage purchases. This blog post will explore how effective visual merchandising can positively impact sales and offer practical tips retailers can implement to enhance their display tactics.

Understanding Visual Merchandising

Visual merchandising goes beyond simply arranging products on shelves; it’s a blend of creativity and consumer psychology. By curating an inviting shopping environment, retailers can guide customer behaviour and create a memorable shopping experience.

Research indicates that attractive displays can increase foot traffic by up to 30% and improve customer retention. For example, a well-organized store layout can encourage shoppers to visit specific areas, raising the

likelihood of impulse purchases. Stores with effective visual merchandising can see sales increases of 10-20% immediately after implementing new displays.

Moreover, visual merchandising helps convey a brand’s personality and its value proposition. It aligns the presentation of products and services with customer needs, fostering emotional connections.

The Psychology Behind Visual Merchandising

Understanding the psychology behind visual merchandising is key to its effectiveness. Customers often judge a store based on its visual presentation. Well-

designed displays signal quality and professionalism, making shoppers more likely to explore products.

Colour plays a vital role in influencing emotions. For instance, research shows that red can stimulate urgency, increase heart rates, and even drive sales. In contrast, blue tends to promote feelings of calm and trust. A clothing store might use red to feature sale items, driving quick decisions, while blue could dominate the décor to create a serene shopping environment.

In addition to colors, props and thematic displays enhance the shopping experience. For example, a backyard equipment display featuring outdoor furniture alongside decorative plants creates an inviting atmosphere. This thematic approach not only draws customers in but can also lead to higher average transaction values as they envision how the products fit into their lives.

Creating Effective Displays

To harness the benefits of visual merchandising, retailers need to craft displays that capture customer attention. Here are some actionable tips for creating engaging displays:

1. Focal Point: Establish a focal point that draws customers' eyes. Use lighting and unique product placements to highlight key items. For example, spotlighting a new product can increase its sales by as much as 25%.

2. Storytelling: Create a narrative within your display. Consider the message conveyed through the product arrangement. This storytelling can emotionally engage customers, forming a deeper connection with the products, which can lead to increased sales.

3. Seasonal Themes: Refresh displays to reflect seasonal changes or promotions. Seasonal themes can create urgency—a winter holiday display might emphasize limited-time offers that encourage shoppers to buy gifts quickly.

The Impact of Ambient Factors

Beyond product arrangement, ambient factors like lighting, sound, and scent play critical roles in visual merchandising.

• Lighting: The right lighting can create a welcoming atmosphere. Bright, warm lights can enhance product features, prompting customers to spend more time in-store.

• Sound: Background music sets the ambiance and can influence how long customers stay. A study found that

4. Layering Products: Layer products within your displays to add depth and create visual interest. For example, placing outdoor furniture in front of decorative items can inspire customers to imagine their own outdoor gatherings.

5. Regular Changes: Update displays regularly to maintain a fresh look. Retailers who change displays monthly may see foot traffic rise by up to 20%, as returning customers are eager to see what’s new.

slow tempo music can increase customer dwell time, leading to higher sales.

• Scent: Engaging the sense of smell can leave a strong impression. Using pleasant aromas like vanilla or citrus can enhance the atmosphere and encourage longer visits, with some retailers noting up to a 40% increase in impulse purchases when scent marketing is used effectively.

Measuring the Effectiveness of Visual Merchandising

Measuring the success of visual merchandising efforts is crucial for retailers. This can be achieved through several methods, including:

• Sales Data: Analyze sales performance before and after implementing new visual merchandising strategies to determine which setups are most effective. Retailers might find that displays promoting certain product categories lead to up to 30% sales growth in those areas.

• Customer Feedback: Collecting customer opinions provides insights into how displays are perceived. Implementing surveys can help retailers fine-tune their strategies based on direct customer input.

• Observation: Observing customer behavior in-store yields valuable insights. Noting how long customers spend at various displays and which products capture attention can inform future design choices.

Final Thoughts

Visual merchandising plays a crucial role for retailers striving to enhance sales potential. Through strategic displays, a grasp of consumer psychology, and thoughtful ambient factors, businesses can create engaging shopping experiences that drive sales.

The art of effective product displays as a discipline is always changing. Retailers must be willing to experiment, gather data, and refine their strategies over time. By focusing on visual displays that resonate with customers, businesses can build stronger connections and foster loyalty, paving the way for increased revenue and success.

Understanding the power of visual merchandising is essential for retailers. Making informed decisions based on effective strategies can lead to significant improvements in sales and customer experiences. In today's competitive landscape, investing in visual merchandising is not just a choice; it is vital for thriving in retail.

DOROTAPE PRODUCTS

Dorotape is thrilled to unveil Glass Apeel, a PVC-free game-changer for stunning, easy-to-apply printed window graphics.

Unlike traditional static cling vinyl, which degrades after about 6 months, struggles in cold and humid conditions, and contains highly plasticised PVC—one of the most environmentally harmful plastics—Glass Apeel offers a revolutionary alternative. This innovative solution is not only free from harmful VOCs but also provides complete repositionability and lifetime removability. Glass Apeel can even be stored and reused multiple times, significantly reducing waste and reinforcing our commitment to environmental sustainability.

Glass Apeel window graphic material features an innovative, smooth, non-sticky underside with a unique microporous layer that expands the film's surface area, creating a grip-like feel. When applied to smooth surfaces such as glass or metal, the film naturally aligns with the surface, keeping it firmly in place. Removal is remarkably simple—just peel from one corner and the alignment breaks instantly, releasing the grip completely and leaving absolutely no residue behind. This revolutionary technology combines professional-grade performance with unmatched convenience.

Why choose Glass Apeel?

• Easy to install – Completely repositionable and fully reusable

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Glass Apeel is available in four different versions:

• Glass Apeel Transparent is 100% optically clear for use on glass and acrylic and can be front or mirror printed

• Glass Apeel Frosted has a bright translucency for front or mirror printing, providing privacy while letting light through (Coming soon)

• Glass Apeel White 99% light block out properties for use on to windows and smooth metal surfaces

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Glass Apeel is printable using Latex, UV, and Eco-solvent inks, and looks stunning when applied to glass, acrylic, and other smooth, flat surfaces.

Michael Ingram, Managing Director at Dorotape, announced the exciting development. He said: “We have been looking to expand our range of environmentally friendly digital print window films for the last 6 months and Glass Apeel is the perfect choice for anyone wanting to print promotional advertising on to glass.”

Dorotape, who have been supplying the industry for over 35 years have built a wide portfolio of PVC-Free films. Glass Apeel is the latest addition to this range and enhances their commitment to offering the very latest innovations in product technology and sustainability.

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"Being part of the SDEA continues to provide valuable connections, business support and the opportunity to celebrate the very best talent from across the industry through the Creative Retail Awards each year."

"Being part of the SDEA continues to provide opportunity to celebrate the very best talent from across the industry through the Creative Retail Awards each year."

Claire White Antalis

Claire White Antalis

Rob Hill Graphica Display Ltd

Graphica Display Ltd

"I have been an active member of SDEA for 7 years and found it highly valuable in the furtherment and growth of key industry connections and links to new customers. "

"I have been an active member of SDEA for 7 years and found it highly valuable in the furtherment and growth of key industry connections and links to new customers.

Mark Chatterton Morplan Ltd

Mark Chatterton Morplan Ltd

"Our last 3 years fees have been covered by just one of the leads we received from the SDEA this year.

"Our last 3 years fees have been covered by just one of the leads we received from the SDEA this year."

"As a member of the SDEA, we have had numerous opportunities thanks to their Directory and infoline service. I've benefitted from various advantages including leads, enriching networking events, discounts on trade shows, access to the SDEA App for retail trends and information updates. The Creative Retail Awards is an incredible annual event that showcases the very best in class across selected categories."

Paul Smart Arken POP

"We love the SDEA – very supportive and a great way to network with like-minded peers. Always good fun too!"

Ross Inanc H.O.L Group

Big ideas deserve a BOLD finish.

We’re the team behind the standout stu . Custom signage and lighting that turns good retail concepts into unforgettable ones.

Think eye-catching logos, windows with wow, selfie-ready backdrops, and POS that practically begs to be bought!

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We work with design agencies, VM pros, shopfitters, architects, and signage contractors to deliver the final touch, fast.

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We’ll point you in the right direction. Get in touch today!