Shelving displays can bring your goods to life

Having the right display shelves goes a long way towards attracting potential customers to your business. But just what is the 'right' kind of shelving?

"With display shelves, it's critical to be aware of your market and the look you are bringing in through your store; then consider budgets and products," says Grant Bird from The Factory.

"You then look at the many materials available, including timber, metal, laminate, glass and plastic, and select the best medium to present your products."

Products and shelving

The type of products you're selling can help determine what kind of shelving display would be best for your business. For example, if your products are bold and 'loud', it might be better to install minimalist shelves that don't assault the eye.

Conversely, when the products are in neutral or slightly dull colours, it may be preferable to have display shelves in more vibrant or intense hues or materials.

Think outside the … shelf

If you're a 'hip' business targeting an adventurous, cutting-edge clientele, consider shelving in abstract shapes or in complementary raw materials such as stainless steel, glass and timber.

Alternatively, you could try some of the new laminates, which come in a large range of colours. Hip clients are going to want to see evidence of your creativity and imagination.

How important is display shelving?

There's no doubt that shelving is a crucial part of a business's visual merchandising strategy.

"Your shelving can have an amazing impact on your business and can often be the difference between success and failure," says Grant. "Great shelving makes products look amazing and will have your clients commenting on the products themselves, rather than the shelves."

Getting your shelving right

Grant believes it is critical to get good advice and design ideas to make sure the display strategies your business chooses are spot on.

To help you get your shelving displays perfect, he recommends the following:

Be aware of all your products and their colours, heights, widths and depths.
If possible, have photos of your products at hand.
Look at opposition businesses and go online to view shelving options used around the world.

Benefits of good display shelving

It increases the appeal of your products, which can potentially increase sales.
It provides a sense of what your business is about and attracts your target market.
Its versatility ensures that you can present your products in exactly the way you want.
It can set your business apart from the opposition, who may sell similar products but whose visual merchandising strategy is lacking.