Dye sublimation printing is a digital printing technique that has created waves in the commercial printing and signage industry.

## What is Dye Sublimation Printing?

Dye sublimation is a two-stage fabric printing process of digitally dye printing synthetic substrate with heat activated dyes and then heat curing the printed substrate to achieve a vibrant, and detailed printed image. The process is simple and quick compared to other analog printing techniques such as screen printing and traditional offset printing.

## ![](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1635163882/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Shoes_-_Dye_Sublimation_Print_zrmrkl.jpg)How Does the Dye Sublimation Printing Process Work?

Sublimation inks react with heat and pressure to transform the ink into a gaseous state. When heat is applied, the pores of the substrate open up, allowing the gaseous dye to flow into the open pores. As the substrate cools, its pores close, permanently locking the inks into the fabric. The process results in continuous tones of vivid, photographic color, as the inks in their gaseous state enter into the substrates pores rather than being deposited on the surface. They are two primary methods of dye-sublimation printing, transfer printing and direct dye printing.

## Transfer Printing

The printer prints on transfer paper that has a coating designed to hold and then, under heat and pressure in a heat press or calendar, releases the printed image. When the transfer paper is brought into contact with the fabric in a heat press, the ink embedded in the paper is converted to a gas and penetrates directly into the fibers of the substrate.

## Direct Dye Printing

Direct dye printing eliminates the need for transfer paper as inks are printed directly onto the coated substrate. Printed fabrics still need to be run through a calendar for the sublimation process to fix the dye to the fabric. 

## What are the Differences Between Transfer and Direct Dye Printing?

*   Direct dye printing penetrates further into the fabric allowing colour to pass through to the reverse side.
    
*   Transfer dye printing inks sit on top of the fabric resulting in see through threads when fabric is stretched. Ghosting is common in lightboxes.
    
*   Direct dye printing is more durable as it changes the colour of the thread.
    
*   Direct dye printing produces vivid images on fabric substrates
    
*   Transfer dye printing is faster than direct dye printing
    

## ![](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1635163881/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Blog_-_science_of_fabric_printing_2_ybsxji.jpg)What is the Best Fabric for Dye Sublimation Printing?

Any fabric can be sublimated. Typically, polyester fabric is used for signage and visual engagement branding because of its tear strength, warp and weft stability, receptiveness to ink and minimal shrinkage due to wetness. The coating applied to the fabric is as important as the fabric and more important to the print results achieved on the fabric. 

## Is Dye Sublimation Printing Sustainable?

Direct Dye sublimation utilizes water based dyes and is the most sustainable method as it eliminates the use of paper from the printing process.

## The Look Company Delivers High Quality Printing with Direct Dye Sublimation Printing

The Look Company uses direct dye sublimation printing for vivid high-quality printing. We have perfected the process, achieving high levels of color consistency, saturation, and finishing quality comparable to the best textile print houses in the world!  

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1635163882/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/50mm_Lightbox_Dye_Sublimation_Print_for_Retail_czmwwy.jpg)

## G7® Master Qualified

The Look Company is a G7® Master Qualified Facility. This qualification demonstrates our facility is a proven quality leader in print, pre-media, and creative services. 

G7® is an industry-leading set of specifications from Idealliance® for achieving visual similarity across all print processes. It is a global standard widely used to measure the color accuracy on any output device across all printing types and substrates along with improving process control and production efficiency.

## Award Winning

The Look Company has achieved multiple international awards for print quality from FESPA, the worldwide industry association of wide format digital printers. We have also been recognized by the Premier Print Awards for excellence in quality, creativity and innovation from the Printing Industries of America Association.

Looking to create an environment that captivates? Transform your space with vivid dye sublimation fabric prints and customizable frames from The Look Company. [Contact us today!](https://thelookcompany.com/contact)

Dye Sublimation: The Science of Fabric Printing

People shop with their eyes! Many make buying decisions by looking at the window, product displays and retail signage—what we usually call impulse purchases. This kind of visual impact plays a massive role in retail merchandising. Shoppers feel drawn by visually appealing window displays. Visual imagery influences them in the first few seconds that they spend outside your retail store. You must capture their attention in those first few moments! 

![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1634215150/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Hunter_Blog_-_Lightboxes_Environments_2_ypwmz1.jpg)It is no wonder that retailers treat shop front windows as prime property for visual merchandising. If your store window is cluttered, dirty, or simply uninteresting, visitors will walk right past it! And nothing is worse for business than an absence of visual merchandising or out-of-date promotional displays or graphics that don't support or carry forward your brand's story. 

## The power of display graphics & signage

Product displays and visual imagery in your retail showroom create an impression in the mind of every visitor who walks into your store. 

Vibrant and striking printed retail signage and window displays seem to almost call out to passers-by! 

Visual merchandising strategies, when used intelligently, will reflect your brand's character, tell the story you want your audience to know, engage shoppers, and help convert them into your customers to increase sales.

Remember, the customers' buying journey begins at that storefront window display! As shoppers walk through the store, they take in your store's layout, product displays and the visual imagery inside the store; they move into the consideration phase of their buying journey. Finally, as they reach checkout, they move into the final conversion phase. So how do you generate visual impact that drives the customer from discovery to a sale? 

## 5 essential ways to generate visual impact & engagement for your retail store

**1) Lighting** is an important component of visual displays; it can be striking and draw attention, subtle and create ambiance, or a spotlight that draws attention to a particular product. 

Backlit displays can deliver remarkable results. Take a look at how TLC's custom [fabric lightboxes](https://thelookcompany.com/blog/fabric-lightboxes-tell-the-story-your-customers-want-to-be-a-part-of-tell-brand-stories/) create bold, illuminated, attention-grabbing displays.

![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1634215150/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/RTG_Fall_-_2_pane_xqixih.jpg)**2) Compelling themes for window displays:** The world's best brands use stunning visual displays in their shop front windows, year-on-year. Their window dressings have become iconic, and shoppers keep coming back to see their latest creative displays. A window theme tells a story—and much like the cover of a storybook, it draws viewers in, engages them, and leaves them with a memorable experience of the brand!

**3) Stunning photographic quality prints** on fabric bring any display to life and are a cost-effective method of creating large format, immersive imagery and ambiance. Take a look at the picture below to see how we used evocative imagery on backlit lightboxes.

![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1634215150/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/autumn_Holts_-_2_pane_ifr85l.jpg)**4) Eye-catching outdoor retail signage:** Flagpole banners that can be seen from afar, curbside A-frame signs, flexible wraparound banners to cover pillars or props—all these increase visual engagement and drive footfall into your retail store. From outside to in-store, TLC creates stunning graphic signage and product displays. 

**5) Easily changeable modular display areas:** Change is the name of the game in retail. Quickly set up [pop-up store-style graphic displays](https://thelookcompany.com/blog/how-pop-up-stores-create-a-win-win-for-retailers-and-brands) using modular shelving units and partitions. Or innovative selfie stations or self-checkout areas for new product launches, brand activations, and seasonal specials. TLC's [display systems](https://thelookcompany.com/products/display-systems/) allow for easily changeable signage and graphics. No specialized tools or staff are needed to update promotional graphics, and there is little or no disruption to your shop floor during the changeover.

![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1634215150/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Indigo_-_Gift_Wrap_Modular_Partition_afhpu8.jpg)[The Look Company](https://thelookcompany.com/) creates fresh, flexible, and visually engaging graphic displays, from the moment your customer walks in and all the way to conversion. Our creative use of [display graphics](https://thelookcompany.com/markets/retail-solutions), lightboxes, wall coverings and window displays create visual impact and draw in customers. 

Visual imagery has a positive impact on brand awareness as well as recall. We create a visual narrative that pulls a visitor into experiencing your brand's story. 

[Get in touch with us](https://thelookcompany.com/contact) for visual engagement solutions that bring your retail brand into prime focus in a crowded retail scenario.

5 Ways to Create Visual Impact & Engagement with Retail Signage

Have you noticed how you can tell a lot about a family if you watch them closely as they pile in or out of their family car? It's true! A car gives away a lot about its owner. You can make fair assumptions about their lifestyle choices, how socially and environmentally conscious they are, and maybe even the size of their family! Is it a luxury car or a functional ride? Is it a racy sports car, a brawny SUV or a reliable hatchback?

## You Are What You Drive!

In most modern societies, a car is one of the most significant possessions of young, aspiring adults! A car is a lifestyle choice—and buying a vehicle is a well-thought-out decision—usually, a dream come true! That's why we like to say that when customers walk into a car showroom to test drive a car, they are not in 'buying' mode, but in 'dreaming' mode! 

People buy cars that fit in with their lifestyle—or their aspirations of a lifestyle. A car is a promise of that lifestyle for which they aspire. So when they open the door of their dream car for the first time, they see in their mind's eye what their life will be like once they own this car!

![How Visual Displays Help Car Dealerships Enhance the Buyer Experience](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1631200491/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Car_Dealerships_-_JLR_Automotive_Showroom_yulb7y.jpg)

## The Importance of Displays and Aesthetics in Car Dealerships

The car is almost all about the brand! 

Advertising creates a picture in the minds of consumers about the personality of each car model—and that is perceived as an extension of the car owner's personality. 

Is your car  showroom designed to make your customers feel that their aspirations are about to be fulfilled? An inviting, modern, and well-organized retail space is key to influencing automotive sales. 

![How Visual Displays Help Car Dealerships Enhance the Buyer Experience](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1631200493/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Car_Dealerships_-_Subaru_Automotive_Showroom_bnpfqr.jpg)Your car showroom must reflect your customers' aspirations and emotions. Its layout, design, ambiance, and aesthetics are crucial factors that can make or break your car sales process. It's not what you say to your customers but how your showroom looks and, more importantly, how it makes them feel. 

Let's look at a few aspects of your car dealership display and signage that affect car sales:

## 1\. Showroom Window Displays & Storefront Signage

[Storefront signage](/markets/retail-solutions) must impress and engage prospective customers the moment they enter your car showroom. The newest and latest models are usually featured right at the entrance synchronized with the brand's advertising campaigns. Thematic displays that bring out the key features of the model are popular and have excellent recall. For example, do you remember an SUV displayed at an uphill angle to showcase its ability to negotiate harsh terrains?

## 2.  Immersive Display Graphics that Capture the Imagination

Stunning, photographic-quality imagery and immersive displays capture the attention and imagination of walk-in visitors. 

*   **Wall-to-ceiling immersive printed displays** create the ambiance that goes with the brand or the lifestyle promised by the specific car model you are promoting. The Look Company specializes in [dye sublimation printed](/products/signs-and-banners) large-format banners and wall coverings that are perfect to depict the lifestyle your car brand promises.
    
*   **Stunning backlit displays** create a sense of exclusivity and reinforce the identity of the brands you are showcasing with powerful imagery, striking colors to complement the brand, and lighting that draws attention to a focus concept. TLC's [custom lightboxes](/products/lightboxes) elevate the brand experience and enrich your customer's buying journey.
    
*   **Eye-catching graphics** displaying promotions and special offers are practical sales tools. Draw attention, create urgency to book that car before the promotion runs out, emphasize scarcity—and get customers to book that limited edition model while it lasts! 
    

![How Visual Displays Help Car Dealerships Enhance the Buyer Experience](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1631200493/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Car_Dealerships_-_JLR_Automotive_Showroom_3_na3a2l.jpg)

**Informative displays** with car specifications and features are essential as customers wander around the shop floor, studying the specifications of different models. TLC's modular display stands and [integrated millwork solutions](/products/display-systems) have custom-designed graphic components purpose-built to fit your [auto showroom](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_dealership) floor space. They are an innovative way to feature accessories and add-ons for car models. 

## 3\. Appealing Visual Displays Help You Sell More Cars!

By using strategic visual merchandising, well designed car dealerships can turn prospects into buyers. It creates an engaging ambiance that reflects a particular lifestyle which the car promises to fulfil.

[Immersive displays and graphics](/markets/retail-solutions) elicit an emotional connection between the buyer and the cars on display. They influence the purchase decisions by impacting the buyer's perceptions of the trustworthiness and professionalism of the brand. Graphics have the power to reinforce brand image, enhance recall, and draw prospects back for a second look—or a test drive.

[TLC](/) helps car dealerships create the perfect customer experience, enhancing brand awareness, reinforcing quality perceptions, and ultimately driving more sales. 

[Talk to us](/contact) for custom solutions to 'drive' up your car sales!

How Visual Displays Help Car Dealerships Enhance the Buyer Experience

Grocery shopping is a high-priority and high-stress activity, given the uncertainty of shutdowns and social distancing norms during the pandemic. Retailers must understand the changes in customers' supermarket habits and their emotions toward grocery and home purchases.
 
Effective [**graphic displays and in-store signage**](/markets/retail-solutions) assist shoppers in getting through their shopping lists quickly and painlessly. Well-placed product promotions and eye-catching displays also inspire shoppers and give them new ideas to try and buy! They lead customers to focus areas within the store, spiking purchases of products featured there.
 
For retailers, effective displays maximize precious floor space and achieve increased sales volumes, better conversion rates, and higher transaction values. Even with digitization and technology taking retail by storm, for supermarkets, traditional point-of-sale signages still seem to work best—and that’s partly because there's an element of customers being comfortable with the "known". For example, a 'What's fresh today' sign at a supermarket entrance still works best to draw in customers!  
 
The world's top supermarket chains like Tesco, Walmart, Sainsbury, Carrefour, Sobeys—all employ visual merchandising and retail display and signage techniques to drive traffic and increase revenues. Let's look at how [**supermarket in-store display solutions**](/case-studies/walmart) increase basket size and drive up revenues: 
 
## 1\. Curbside Signage or Entrance Displays
 
Curbside flagpole banners or sidewalk A-frame signs induce passersby to step in and explore what's inside the supermarket. Fresh produce, seasonal fruits and vegetables, discounts and promotions, are all crowd-pullers and help get the word out about what's new and what's special. 
 
Entrance graphics displays designed with the creative use of textures like wood for organic products and colors like green and blue convey a sense of freshness, natural goodness, and health—positive associations for supermarkets.
 
Another innovative solution is branding on buggy corrals. Easily visible as shoppers park up or approach the supermarket, the shopping cart corrals carry your branding and message in a memorable way.
 
## ![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1631195012/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Kroger_-_Cart_Corrales_2_up_y4kxov.jpg)2\. Window and In-Store Displays
 
Discount offers, promotions, and new product launches deserve special attention either in window displays or as [**in-store displays**](/products/display-systems/) in the form of shelving units, display stands and [millwork](/markets/retail-solutions), and [dye sublimation printed flexible banners](/markets/retail-solutions) for walls and ceilings.
 
![How Creative In-Store Display Solutions Increase Revenue for Supermarkets](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1631194983/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Walmart_Low_Prices_Sign_-_Displays_for_Supermarkets_ovgilh.jpg)
 
Vibrant colors and lighting creates a lively atmosphere and inspires visitors to explore and try out products that are not on their shopping lists! For example, TLC's [**50mm lightbox**](/products/lightboxes) allows you to build lightboxes into product display units without reducing the shelving area.
 
When display space is at a premium, you need sleek and slender display fixtures to make the most expensive retail real estate. Our 50mm (2") profile lightbox is half the depth of a standard 100mm (4") lightbox. In addition, the thinner profile allows the lightbox to be wall-mounted or integrated into display systems.
 
## 3\. Supermarket Aisle Signs and Endcap Displays
 
In-store layouts, aisle arrangements, and intelligent product placements make grocery runs non-stressful for shoppers. Supermarket aisles are designed with great care to ensure that shoppers get through their shopping list—and even go beyond the list! For example, staples like bread, eggs, and milk are usually at the back, so customers walk past several product lines to get to them. That increases the likelihood that they will pick up something else on the way—thus increasing the basket size!
 
Directional signs or aisle signs help shoppers navigate through the aisles of your supermarket. Usually hung from the ceiling, they are easily visible as shoppers walk in, guiding them to locate the aisles with the items on their shopping list. 
 
![How Creative In-Store Display Solutions Increase Revenue for Supermarkets](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1631194983/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Walmart_-_Bakery_Woodgrain_Treatment_rvjlzo.jpg)
 
The end of an aisle may feature an endcap display that usually brings a focus on and drives up sales for new or popular products. Featured products, discounted items or limited period offers work well on endcap display units.
 
As customers walk through the shop floor, they are most likely to turn right at the end of the aisle, and retailers can gain mileage from featuring their most attractive promotions or new products at this point.
 
## 4.  Engaging and Experiential Displays
 
A customer's in-store experience is the most crucial factor determining whether they will keep coming back as returning customers. Supermarkets especially must go the extra mile to entice return visits as customers tend to visit the same store for their regular grocery runs. Engaging them in product trials or food prepping demos and letting them experience the taste, smell or feel of the produce or products creates an opportunity to sell something that's not on their lists. Another great way to increase basket size!
 
## 5\. The Checkout Counter and Impulse Purchases
 
The checkout counter is the one area of the supermarket that every customer must pass through. It's the retailer's last chance to up the basket size. Small items like candy or gum, or a magazine are traditionally placed at checkout. Most shoppers admit to making an impulse purchase during a long and boring checkout line. While products with a marked-down price may be a good idea here, retailers may want to promote a higher-value product here in a bid to increase basket size.
 
![How Creative In-Store Display Solutions Increase Revenue for Supermarkets Walmart Arches Self Checkout Express](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1631194983/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Walmart_Arches-Supermarket_Displays_ow5afc.jpg)
 
The Look Company's store branding project for [**Walmart**](/case-studies/walmart/), Canada, won the bronze award at FESPA. We designed signage that can be easily changed to accommodate seasonal and brand promotions by in-store staff at the store level, without the need for specialized staff or tools. Our solutions for Walmart included endcap and in-aisle lightboxes, wall and hanging displays that save floor space, and custom display elements such as self-checkout areas.
 
[**Talk to TLC**](/contact) today to see how our display designers can send your supermarket revenues skyrocketing!
 



How Creative In-Store Supermarket Display Solutions Increase Revenue

Just as the COVID-19 pandemic took its toll on corporate houses worldwide, its impact struck the live sporting events industry like a lightning bolt. Social distancing and global shutdowns meant that live sports events could not take place—and even when sports made a comeback, letting capacity crowds into the stadium was unthinkable. And what's a game without fans to cheer on the players!

But now, we're opening up sports venues to fans—but the fans who are returning are different from the ones who attended such events before the pandemic.

The new fans think differently, have higher expectations of the experience that live sports can bring them. Those who return to live venues are making a conscious choice between safety and the fan experience.

[Research by EFL](https://fanexperienceco.com/white-paper/) shows that:

*   91% of fans consider the atmosphere inside the stadium as important to them (compared to 79% who rate safety as being more important).
    
*   84% of fans attend live sports events because they enjoy the stadium atmosphere and enjoy being with other fans.
    
*   71% come because they enjoy everything about the live experience.
    

## ![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1631194279/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Live_Sport_-_Return_Fan_Engagement_Display_Graphics_qsiq0c.jpg)Engaging Fans on Game-Day

Sports companies and event organizers need to rethink how they will engage the newly-returned fans and make the experience extra-special.

*   59% of fans believed that creating memories was more important than winning, and a similar percentage believed it is important to support their favorite teams and athletes.
    
*   An interesting point to note is that only 41% of fans go directly into the stadium on arrival—the others visit sponsored areas like fan zones or the venue's F&B outlets like on-site restaurants, bars, and fan merchandise shops first.
    

A full-house makes for a fantastic game-day experience—with colorful banners, deafening cheers, fans sporting their favorite team's branded merchandise, a vibrant F&B area—it's what makes live sports events memorable!

## ![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1631194279/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Live_Sport_-_Return_Fence_Scrim_Display_Graphics_ie4c6v.jpg)Venue Signage and Display Graphics

Signage and event graphics are an essential part of engaging fans and providing them with a memorable experience at the venue. Organizers can also use them to communicate the mandatory safety and hygiene requirements. Wayfinding signage will be of particular importance post-pandemic, to inform and direct traffic flow throughout the buildings and grounds. 

[The Look Company](/) offers products that complete the live sports experience:

## 1\. Media Backdrops: For Picture-Perfect Broadcast Coverage

TLC uses matte fabrics for [media backdrops](/products/fabric-and-frames) to minimize flash reflection.

The stretch fabric ensures a crease-free look, while dye sublimation printing on high-resolution printers produces vibrant, photographic-quality graphic reproduction. A picture-perfect way to showcase media coverage of the event and your brand's story!

## 2\. Freestanding Kiosks: The Power of Interactivity

[Freestanding kiosks](/products/display-systems) are ideal for outdoor events and live sports venues as venue staff can move them around quickly and easily between games. An integrated touch screen display and WiFi connectivity allow users to access information or ticketing without interacting with staff—a helpful technique during a pandemic.

## 3\. Fence Scrim: Protection & Branding

[Fence scrim](/products/signs-and-banners) are used in outdoor venues to connect venue sections or hide areas from view. Besides, they are a cost-effective way to display advertising. They offer prime branding opportunities for event sponsors or clubs. Used as barriers and perimeters, they are suitable for crowd-control and during a pandemic, you can modify them to create personal distancing and prevent overcrowding.

## ![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1631194279/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Live_Sport_-_Return_Fence_Scrim_Flags_Display_Graphics_mpglll.jpg)4\. Floor Decals: Distancing Cues and Directional Signs

[Floor decals](/products/signs-and-banners) can provide social distancing cues in high traffic areas such as stadium entrances, payment queues, and F&B outlets. These graphics are economical and have a high impact, making them ideal for signal directions or minimum distance indicators. Made of high-strength vinyl, they are durable and resistant to wear and tear.

![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1631194279/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/Live_Sport_-_Return_Floor_Decals_Display_Graphics_ounyas.jpg)5\. Venue Banners and Information Stands: High Visibility & Portability

Banners flying high, flagpoles with team branding, weighted-base stands with key information about the venue, rules, safety guidelines or information about what's available on-venue and where. These banners are printed using dye sublimation ink, resulting in vibrant colors and seamless printing.

At TLC, we deliver an [immersive experience for fans](/markets/sports-and-events) at live sports venues. For us, the safety of the fans, players, and staff is of utmost importance—and we [design our products](/markets/sports-and-events) for just that!

Our experienced designers create custom venue solutions to meet your branding and messaging requirements. Are you ready to reopen live venues? [**Contact TLC**](/contact) for best-in-class display graphics and venue signage.

We're Back to Live Sports! Get Your Venue Ready with Signage and Display Graphics

A walk down the high street in any modern town or city gives you a fair idea of the current fashion trends. Storefronts for fashion showrooms display the latest styles, with perfectly styled mannequins, eye-catching themes, and engaging graphics. 

Window displays are the brand's first visual contact with potential customers. Storefront displays or a quick glance at the look of the shop floor creates an impression about the brand in the shopper's mind. And remember that many times, these first impressions become lasting impressions!

But window displays are not only about aesthetics. They are a key element of retail marketing strategy. The objective is clear: to draw passersby into the store and convert them into customers.

Here are a few tips to increase in-store foot traffic with innovative window displays:

## 1\. Know Your Customers' Style!

Want your brand to resonate with potential customers? First, get to know them well. Build a buyer persona, identify which products cater to their aspirations and style needs. Also, consider the store's location, your brand's story, and the seasonal products or promotions you want to display. Window displays that support the aspirations and preferences of their target audience are most successful in converting visitors to customers. Fashion-conscious shoppers opt for a brand that defines their sense of style, and they look for visual confirmation of that even before they step into fashion showrooms. 

"Identity is truth," says [Faith Hope Consolo, Chairman of Douglas Elliman's Retail Group](https://thefaithconsoloteam.elliman.com/). "The brand is the aspiration the customer wants to buy; it's the core truth of the brand." 

Take a look at [**this photo gallery**](/our-work) of a fashion accessories storefront display by The Look Company.

## 2\. Weave an Inspiring Story Into Store Displays

Who doesn't love a good story! First, find a theme that will engage your target audience. Then create a focal point that will grab a shopper's attention. Use an eye-catching element or an attractive product at the focal point, so the shopper's attention lingers on long enough to take in the story. If you build an effective window display, shoppers will walk in to discover more about the brand. Seasonality is a big factor in fashion retail—so make sure your story and messaging are right for the season.

![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1631193642/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/TF_-_Fashion_Showroom_-_Hunter_Boots_vq2ob9.jpg)At [The Look Company](/), we weave your brand's story into displays with large-scale graphics, frames, and partitions to create a memorable retail experience that will keep shoppers coming back for more.

3\. Find the Perfect Balance in Colors, Lighting, and Textures

Choose colors that go with your brand's look-and-feel, create a wow factor with innovative lighting that sets the right mood and use textures cleverly to add interest and depth to the displays within the fashion showrooms. 

For example, use TLC's fabric [**on-wall treatments**](/our-work) for a high-impact display. Our [dye sublimation prints](/products/services) create stunning, vibrant, photographic quality imagery to convey your brand's story. Complement these with our [**lightbox**](/products/lightboxes) solutions for bold backlit colors that light up your window display and grab shoppers' attention.

## ![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1631193642/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/TF_-_Fashion_Showroom_-_Holts_Valentino_cwdmh1.jpg)4.  Don't Miss Out on the Accessories

Often, it's the accessories that define the style! They are head-turners and can tempt shoppers into the store. Who can resist a new scarf, tie or laptop bag even if they are not shopping for a new outfit!

Accessories are probably the only products that may be bought on impulse or as a result of a carefully thought-out style decision. In window displays, accessories provide a good reason for passersby to walk in. And once inside, the brand's sales staff is well-trained to entice walk-in customers to try out more stuff and increase the basket size.

## ![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1631193642/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/TF_-_Fashion_Showroom_-_Ecco_Shoes_ayxlck.jpg)5\. Remember, Fashionistas Love Social Medi**a**

When you own a brick-and-mortar store of a fashion brand, you want it to be not just a storefront but a fashion destination! So, how instagrammable are your store’s displays? Studies show that around [50% of Instagram users](https://www.fashiongonerogue.com/how-instagram-models-are-influencing-the-fashion-industry/) follow fashion accounts and use them to find inspiration for their outfits. Fashion influencers share their newest look on Insta and become the source of inspiration to hordes of fashion-conscious fans! According to the Independent, Instagram is a [vital sales channel for fashion brands](https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/features/instagram-fashion-industry-digital-technology-a8412156.html). 

So go ahead—up the social quotient of your brand and tempt shoppers with selfie stations with your branding. After all, fashion divas deserve their moment of fame! It's a great way to popularize your brand, build a fanbase and make shoppers look forward to every new window display you create!

[**Reach out to TLC**](/contact) for display solutions and fixtures that make it easy to change out graphics and signages. Keep your window displays up-to-the-minute with TLC

[![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629988936/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta-lightbox-2_duyaxs.jpg)](/products/lightboxes)

5 Ways to Drive Foot Traffic to your Fashion Showroom with Innovative Window & In-Store Displays

Strolling through shopping areas and gazing at window displays is a well-loved activity for most shoppers, especially on weekends and during the holiday season. For years, big brands have used iconic window displays to create memorable retail experiences for their fans. In Montreal, the [**McCord Museum**](https://www.musee-mccord.qc.ca/en/exhibitions/enchanted-worlds/) even housed an exhibition of displays in Ogilvy's department store window every Christmas since 1947!

Traditionally, we used the term window shopping to describe shoppers who gazed through windows without actually buying anything. But in today's age, window displays are used as a marketing tool. Even if shoppers don't walk in at that moment, they carry the brand's impression in their minds, and their recall of the display influences their purchase decision at a later point in time. 

## Window Displays are the First Impression of Your Brand

Window displays are the first point of contact between a brand and its customers—literally the first impression of a newly launched product line or brand. They spark the shoppers' curiosity and influence their decision to walk into the store or not. 

Ideally, window displays should inspire shoppers to explore the product range or brand further. The measure of the effectiveness of the display is the total basket value of the purchase. It's not about selling only the particular product line displayed in the window—once the shoppers are inside the store, it's much easier to sell them other products. 

![Window Displays - Popup Store Footlocker Under Armour](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629989950/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/18.0_Window_Displays_-_Popup_Under_Armour_pbio8s.jpg)

## The Art and Science of Visual Merchandising

Retail outlets of all types—from large malls to single-brand showrooms and multi-retail big box stores—all use visual merchandising as a strategic marketing technique to drive in-store traffic. It is a discipline that combines marketing principles, retail merchandising expertise, and creative graphic design for retail.

The five main elements of visual merchandising that influence the purchase decision are window displays, shop floor layout, in-store shelving and products displays, use of colour and lighting, and an emerging trend of interactive exhibits. 

*   Window displays must create visual impact; they must be exceptional, differentiating your store from a zillion others. 
    
*   They must also be easy to change out—seasonality and freshness of promotions is the key to the success of window displays.
    
*   A bold central theme attracts passersby and engages them into the brand's narrative.
    

![Escada Outlet Window Display for Retail](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629988981/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/13.0_Escada_Outlet_-_Social_and_blog_post_1_wuolgd.jpg)

Store managers and display designers must plan attractive window displays strategically, choose seasonal product lines and themes, and have the right add-on items available in-store to increase basket size. 

If you execute visual merchandising strategies meticulously, you have the right items at the right times in-store, you will be able to increase your store's turnover significantly.

How do you plan effective displays for conversion? [**The Look Company**](/markets/retail-solutions) has some awesome ideas and solutions for window displays. 

Highlight your brand or products by offsetting the non-lit components of your display with graphic [**lightboxes**](/blog/where-you-should-use-lightboxes/)**.**

Instantly transform the look and feel of your windows as often as you want with our fabric wall coverings—from full-wall murals to above-the-shelf runners to pillar wraps and create unique and engaging displays.

Our award-winning dye sublimation printed textiles deliver vivid colors, stunning large-format, flexible wall and ceiling coverings to create immersive window displays. 

The type of window display that is best suited depends on its sector, product offering, customer base, location, budget.

Different types of window displays are designed for:

*   Retailers of cosmetics and luxury items
    
*   Fashion: Clothes, accessories and shoes
    
*   Home décor and furniture
    
*   Grocery and gourmet foods
    
*   Electronics and consumer durables
    

![Window Displays - Indigo Books](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629989950/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/18.0_Window_Displays_-_Indigo_Books_qzepyy.jpg)

At The Look Company, we [collaborate](/markets/retail-solutions) closely with you and your team, designers, architects and engineers to deliver high-quality window display solutions. From concept and design, technical consultation, project management or installation, our team brings your vision to life!

## New & Upcoming Trends in Visual Merchandising

Immersive displays are the visual merchandiser's new mantra. Using a story, they create an ambiance that immerses the viewer into an experience of the brand's values. Many retailers are experimenting with immersive displays that involve more than one or two senses, such as touch, smell, sound, or taste. The idea is to bring products to life and make the display memorable. 

[The Look Company](/) brings you cutting-edge retail signage and graphic display solutions. [**Talk to us**](/contact) for stunning [**fabric lightboxes**](/products/lightboxes), [**modular display units**](/markets/retail-solutions) that are easy to change out, and captivating window displays that convert passersby into customers!

[![Lightbox Guide for Retail Envrionments](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629988936/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta-lightbox-2_duyaxs.jpg)](/products/lightboxes)

Window Displays: Your Store’s First Impression for Walk-in Shoppers

If there's one thing your retail store needs, it's footfall. After all, it's when customers walk in that you can sell to them! An effective [retail display](/markets/retail-solutsion) and signage is an important factor in driving footfall and eventually increasing revenue.  

How do you plan effective displays for conversion? We've put together 7 awesome ideas you must try for in-store displays:

## 1\. Create an Immersive Environment

Are you selling a product? Or a story? A creative theme draws in visitors as they are intrigued and want to know the whole story. So go beyond the product and tell a story. 'Immerse' shoppers in an environment around a central theme related to your product line or brand. For example, if the theme is 'stay cool,' then the visuals, colors, lighting, and other elements you use in the displays must create the illusion of 'cool.' Transport the shoppers into a different world in which they experience the theme, the promise or the values the brand stands for.

[**Take a look here**](/our-work) at how The Look Company created stunning in-store displays for some of the world's most respected retailers and brands, such as Samsung and Walmart.

## 2\. Touch-and-Feel

People walk into brick-and-mortar retail outlets despite having the option to order products online—because they want to 'see' products, try them on or want to experience the look-and-feel before buying them. Let shoppers experience what it feels like to use the product. Make the product accessible, take it out from its packaging, keep it at eye-level and within reach. Use product demos, trials and DIY ideas to allow shoppers to experience the product using multiple senses. For example, if you're selling soap, let users see the soap bar without its outer packaging, so they can feel the texture, and smell the fragrance.

![7 display ideas Killian Fragrance retail pop up holt renfrew](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629989949/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/17.0_7_retail_display_ideas_-_pop_up_brand_displays_bkkk77.jpg)

## 3\. Product Groupings

Arrange shelving units and retail display units so that you can group up synergistic products. Create a logic or story as to how a shopper proceeds from one section to the other. Accessories go with clothing. Stationery goes with books, and mattresses go with bedroom furniture.

![7 retail display ideas samsung](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629989949/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/17.0_7_retail_display_ideas_samsung_wwpghj.jpg)

[Pop-up stores](/blog/pop-up-stores-for-brand-retailers/) are a popular trend now, with synergistic brands setting up temporary, modular displays within big box retail stores or inside stores selling complementary product categories.

## 4\. Informative Signage

Are your window displays attracting passers-by and encouraging them to step into your store? Curbside signage is a great way to lead shoppers inside.

Next, incorporate rich information into your in-store displays. Engage shoppers in a bit of history, maybe, or a story as they move around your store. Give them information that goes a little beyond selling. Use [creative signage](/case-studies/walmart) that leads them through the store—remember, the more time shoppers spend on the shop floor, the higher the store's revenue! Read about how we created a store signage and display solution for [**Walmart Canada**](/case-studies/walmart).

## 5\. Light It Up!

Are your retail store displays visually engaging? Visuals are critical for retail. Researchers have found that our sense of sight processes over [83%](https://velvetchainsaw.com/2012/05/23/your-senses-your-raw-information-learning-portals/) of information. Creative lighting is visually attractive and draws attention to a particular product line or store area. It can change the mood or ambiance and help you lead shoppers to specific areas of the store. Use backlit displays and illuminated signage to accentuate promotions and new product launches. TLC's custom-designed [fabric lightboxes](/blog/fabric-lightboxes-tell-brand-stories/) are a great way to use lighting to highlight the brand or a specific product.

![7 display ideas for retailers - holts espace beaute directional lightbox](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629989949/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/17.0_7_display_ideas_for_retailers_-_holts_espace_beaute_directional_lightbox_v4je2b.jpg)

## 6\. Flexibility and Adaptability

Freshness is the name of the game! Are you keeping your storefront fresh and updated for seasonal changes, new promotions and changing customer needs? TLC's custom-designed fixtures allow [easy changeability for graphics](/markets/retail-solutions). Our modular retail display systems will give you the flexibility to scale your displays up or down as needed. We use permanent fixtures and change only the signage or graphics—this way, you can update the look of your store without disrupting the shop floor.

## 7\. Go Phygital With Omnichannel Retail Experiences

Embed technology into your physical displays. [Integrate digital screens](/markets/retail-solutions/) within graphic displays and encourage shoppers to interact with the displays using their smartphones. Online product catalogues, product information, and reviews are all valuable for conversion. They extend the in-store experience and let shoppers carry on their interactions with your brand long after they leave the store.

Display solutions from [The Look Company](/) create rich, engaging in-store experiences. [**Talk to us**](/contact) for modular displays for pop-up stores, visually stunning lightboxes, and immersive displays that pull in customers to your retail store and keep them coming back for more!

[![Lightbox Guide for Retail Envrionments](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629988936/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta-lightbox-2_duyaxs.jpg)](/products/lightboxes)

7 Must-Try Retail Display Ideas

Innovative and inviting furniture showroom display ideas are essential components of retail selling strategies. Retailers want to create memorable experiences for their store visitors. Well-designed graphics and the creative use of color, lighting, and modular layouts are aspects to which furniture retailers must pay close attention.

[The Look Company](/) specializes in designing visual engagement display systems for retail.

## Displays are Critical in Furniture Retail

In-store displays provide shoppers with information about your products and create a visual experience of the brand. They also play on the aspirational wants and give shoppers a sneak peek into the value the product will add to their lives. But they affect more than the look and feel of the store. 

![Furniture Showroom Design Ideas ](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629989946/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/16.0_Organized_Interiors_-_Furniture_Blog_pt9snm.jpg)

Essentially, your retail space has to be your most productive and most efficient salesperson, and visual displays optimize your retail store and maximum revenue. From storefront banners to wayfinding signs that lead customers to key areas in the store to modular product display units—[in-store signage](/markets/retail-solutions) plays a crucial role in shaping the shopper's perception of your brand.

Here are some results that informative, engaging, and persuasive graphic displays bring you:  

*   Customers spend more time in the store when in-store graphics are engaging and tell a story.
    
*   When visitors spend more time in the store, it results in higher sales.
    
*   Customers who are impressed by the in-store experience are likely to share it on social media, by word-of-mouth, and through product reviews.
    

## Furniture Showroom Display Ideas: Recreate Your Brand's Story

To make the most of in-store displays, first understand who will walk into the store, what they aspire for, and what kind of experience will wow them. 

Each area of the store has a special significance:

*   **Entrances:** Banners, window displays, and entrance signages must be inviting and create a pull with tempting offers, showcasing what the visitor can expect inside the store.
    
*   **Floor spaces and aisles:** Leave aisles open and uncluttered for a pleasant and leisurely experience, with wayfinding signage that encourages visitors to check out different sections.
    
*   **Shelves and display units:** Shelving units must house product displays at eye level, so they are within reach. Customized [millwork](https://thelookcompany.com/retail-2/product-categories/mill-work-integrated/) and visual displays integrated with product displays are most effective.
    
*   **Ceilings and walls:** Use [full-wall coverings](https://thelookcompany.com/retail-2/product-categories/on-wall-treatments/) and seamless graphics extending from the walls to the ceiling to provide an immersive ambiance.
    

![Furniture Showroom Design Ideas ](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629989946/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/16.0_MLily-furniture_showroom_blog_gbb8as.jpg)

## Display Systems that Create Immersive In-Store Experiences

Modular and changeable furniture showroom [display systems](https://thelookcompany.com/retail-2/product-categories/display-systems/) are adaptable to the changing needs of your store, based on seasonality and supplier promotions. The Look Company provides self-standing [product displays](/case-studies/mattress-firm), on-the-wall frame displays, ceiling-hung frames, and self-standing accessory shelves. 

*   **Modular partitions:** Create easy-to-build walls and rooms that allow you to display different types of furniture. 
    
*   **Lightboxes:** Drive attention to specific areas and help shoppers visualize how their space will look with the furniture. For example, use a vivid backlit lightbox with photographs of festive, happy family dinners near dining room furniture displays.
    
*   **Stimulating the senses:**  Visual and tactile sensations are essential in furniture stores as those are the senses that customers use to assess furniture before they buy it. They look at the colors and shapes, feel the textures of upholstery, the smoothness of the wood, or how a cabinet or drawer opens out. For example, incorporate sounds of children's laughter in the kids' furniture section. Or, create an experiential display of DIY furniture where customers can try out small furniture assemblies. 
    
*   **Color:** color changes a customer's perception of the brand. Specific colors evoke certain emotions. Use color cleverly to create an ambiance that enhances the brand experience.
    
*   **Lighting:** Lighting changes the mood. Changing lights creates a dynamic environment. Brightly lit areas induce the customer into action—for example, bright lights near the checkout and payment counters. Softer lighting creates a contemplative, calm atmosphere where the customer can experience the product or the brand's story.
    

![Furniture Showroom Design Ideas ](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629989947/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/16.0_RTG_-_Furniture_Showroom_Blog_gltp3p.jpg)

## The Future of Furniture Retail

Emerging technology makes it easier to create blended physical and digital solutions for a truly unique immersive experience for shoppers. TLC integrates digital screens into stands, kiosks and integrated fixtures. These displays can be customized with lightbox back lighting for specialized digital content delivery. We incorporate interactive applications into your product displays and signage that can easily connect to the customer's smartphone. Furniture retailers are increasingly adopting an omnichannel approach, but the ultimate goal remains to invite the customer to the in-store. For example, pop-up stores are an ideal touchpoint for many retailers. Though the concept has been around for a while, modular pop-up displays are gaining ground in the new post-pandemic scenario.  

[Talk to TLC](/contact) for modular and adaptable retail display systems, ideal for furniture retail and pop-up changeable displays within big-box retail stores. Get the most out of seasonal retail opportunities and supplier promotions with TLC's visual display solutions.

![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629984007/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta-social_vcffnn.jpg)

Furniture Showroom Display Ideas to Improve the In-Store Experience

A pop-up store is a temporary, fleeting brand experience. Its here-now-gone-tomorrow nature excites the die-hard shopper and triggers a FOMO ([Fear of Missing Out](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fear_of_missing_out)!) response that plagues today's hyper-social-networking customer.

Since the pop-up store is available for a limited period, it creates a sense of urgency to explore and purchase, which is the primary reason the pop-up stores are so successful.

How do brands create an immersive experience out of a temporary structure that will be dismantled in a few days and re-assembled elsewhere? 

Pop-up stores have a unique adaptive display system that is modular, easy to move, with graphic elements that are easy to change out. Ingenious design and high-quality visuals together create an eye-catching experience for the shopper.

Another reason that pop-up stores leave an indelible impression on shoppers is that they are experimental by definition. Online startups primarily use them to try out the brick-and-mortar model before investing heavily into it. Retailers use them for specific product launches, brand activations, seasonal or end-of-season sales, or when brands want to test out new geographies or new customer segments. Shoppers are hungry for new, unusual, and novel retail experiences. They want a thrill—a theatrical quality—which pop-up stores bring to the retail space.  

The pop-up retail industry is worth as high as [$50 billion](https://www.bizjournals.com/newyork/news/2015/12/10/how-pop-up-retail-exploded-into-a-50b-business.html), by some estimates. The COVID-19 pandemic has given a further impetus to the concept. Malls and large retail spaces witnessed a drastic drop in footfall during the lockdowns and the social distancing restrictions enforced after that. Rents dropped, and smaller retailers eagerly lapped up the opportunity to set up inexpensive, temporary, pop-up stores. Big-box retailers who experienced lower footfall and consequently lower revenues were also eager to hand out space within their premises to complementary brands or smaller retailers in synergistic categories.

![Pepsi Pop up store brand experience](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629989522/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/14.0_Popup_Stores_-_Pepsi_Brand_Experience_zlj7ac.jpg)

## Pop-up Stores are a Win-win for Brands and Retailers Alike

A profitable handshake between a large, big-box retailer and a small or synergistic brand—pop-up stores is a trend that’s here to stay for a host of reasons.

## Brands get far more than they pay for!

*   Great location and fabulous 'storefront' without an expensive branded showroom
    
*   Opt for a low-risk, low-commitment, low-cost brick-and-mortar investment 
    
*   Create an in-person connection with customers
    
*   Meet customers in their local areas for an in-person experience
    
*   Online brands can provide an omnichannel experience
    
*   Network with customers and understand their reactions or feedback to products or new features and different types of offers
    
*   Creative merchandising and marketing: amenable to offers, demos and trials
    
*   Social media marketing opportunities and word-of-mouth publicity as shoppers love the exclusivity and fleeting nature of pop-up stores
    

## What's in it for the retailer?

*   Increased revenue: Earn bonus rental on unused retail space 
    
*   Enhanced customer experience: Shoppers love variety - give them engaging, immersive experiences, and they'll keep coming back for more!
    
*   Increased footfall: Eye-catching displays and attractive offers in pop-up stores attract more customers into the retailer's space
    
*   Returning customers: Curiosity about the next pop-up store will make your customers drop back in!
    
*   Maintain a sense of novelty and freshness in your retail space
    

![Pop up store under armour at footlocker immersive brand experience](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629989523/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/14.0_Popup_Stores_-_Under_Armour_lqrl9z.jpg)

## Retailers and Pop-up Stores: Some Winning Combinations

We've helped hundreds of retailers set up engaging and successful pop-up stores to create fabulous in-person experiences for customers. Here are some winning brand-retailer combinations that work like jam on toast!

*   Mattress manufacturers are a great candidate for a pop-up store within a larger furniture showroom. As a category, most mattress brands generally do not have a dedicated physical retail space, so selling within other stores is always an attractive option for them
    
*   Fashion accessories like purses or shoes may do well as pop-up stores within the premises of popular retail giants, for example, Macy's or Hudson's Bay 
    
*   Lighting or plumbing fixture manufacturers are an excellent fit for pop-ups within big-box retailers
    
*   Sports and adventure stores may house pop-up stores for sports accessories.
    

![Pop up store therapedic mattress display](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629989523/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/14.0_Popup_stores_-_therapedic_lsoac1.jpg)

## How Does TLC Help Your Brand Stand Out From the Rest?

[Modular display systems](/markets/retail-solutions) from [The Look Company](/) are designed for usability and aesthetics. We'll get your pop-up store up in an instant with our easily changeable graphics—dismantle and re-assemble them with no fuss, no mess, and little or no disruption to the retail operations.

Engaging visuals and out-of-the-box creative ideas help your brand stand out in a crowded retail space. TLC creates [immersive brand experiences](/markets/retail-solutions) that translate into more sales and higher revenue. Engage your customers and make them loyal fans of your brand!

Take, for example, our [50mm backlit lightbox](/products/lightboxes)—one of the thinnest in the market! What this means is more space available for your merchandise. Integrate rich, engaging graphics into your retail design without the bulky extrusions taking up room in your aisles or shelves. Easily integrate lightbox into the modular display system as shelving end caps or on-the-wall features. 

[Talk to us](/contact) for stunning pop-up store ideas, graphics displays and high-visibility display systems.

![Lightbox Guide for Retail Envrionments](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629988936/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta-lightbox-2_duyaxs.jpg)

How Pop-up Stores Create a Win-Win for Retailers and Brands

What story does your brand tell? What picture does it conjure up in the minds of your potential customers and your brand's loyal fans?

The human brain is wired to pick up stories, relate them to our own experiences, and communicate them to others. Your brand's story creates a personality that your customers can relate to and deepens their connection with your brand. In fact, research by a Princeton neuropsychologist, [Uri Hasson](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30381438/), suggests that a story activates certain parts of the brain so that a listener turns the story into their own idea and experience. 

We tend to think and perceive our daily life events in terms of narratives too. We spend a lot of time talking about personal stories or social gossip! A study by anthropologist Robin Dunbar showed that [65%](https://docplayer.net/19064407-The-secrets-of-storytelling-why-we-love-a-good-yarn.html) of our speaking time is spent on social topics.

## Why tell your story in visuals?

From the ancient art of cave painting to today's modern print industry, we have always found visuals evocative and compelling. 

Creating a visual narrative that pulls a visitor into experiencing the brand's story is an effective technique to turn visitors into consumers.

According to Dr. John Medina from [brainrules.net](http://brainrules.net/vision/), the human brain is more efficient at remembering a picture than a word. If you hear a piece of information, you may remember about 10% of it after three days. If you see an image depicting it, you will likely remember up to 65% of the information. Dr. Medina explains how our brain sees words as tiny pictures, and we have to identify specific features in the letters to read them. Visual imagery wins hands-down against text alone!

That is one of the reasons why we remember brand logos so well. Mnemonics like the 'apple' in the Apple logo or the Nike logo's tick mark are iconic because of their high recall value.

Visual imagery has a positive impact on brand awareness as well as recall.

![Hunter Boots Retail Environment with Lightboxes](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629989523/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/14.0_Hunter_Blog_-_Lightboxes_Environments_2_larstk.jpg)

## How we created an immersive in-store experience to breathe life into a brand's story

[Hunter Boots](/case-studies/hunter-boots) is a 160-year-old brand specializing in all-terrain, waterproof footwear. The brand's personality is sporty, rugged, nature-loving, outdoorsy.

They envisioned an in-store space with bright, bold images of rugged terrain, unyielding conditions, and loyal fans who would brave the elements with their trusted Hunter Boots. Using a combination of nature-based wall panels depicting the Scottish Highlands and stunning sky imagery right across the ceiling, we created an immersive experience for their store visitors.

When visitors walk into the store, they are immersed in photographic-quality, vivid visuals that make them feel like they are already out in the wilderness. They experience the promise of the brand—without ever actually living that moment. 

When you immerse visitors in such an in-store ambiance, it puts them in the right mood and influences their purchasing decision.

![Hunter Boots Retail Environment with Lightboxes](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629989522/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/14.0_Three_up_-_Case_Study_images_-_lightboxes_Hunter_2_ced6av.jpg)

## Fabric lightboxes: How we evoked a sense of the country within a modern retail space

Backlit panels and printed fabrics running seamlessly from walls to the ceiling turned the store into a modern canvas that painted a picture of an environment that heightened the product's brand value.

Working directly with the architects, the store design team, and the team at Hunter Boots, we created custom lightbox solutions with dye sublimation fabric prints for vibrant and rich color. The lightboxes eliminated unwanted shadows, keeping the images saturated and impactful. Overall, the retail space was immersed in imagery of the highlands, offering a backdrop for interactive product displays and highlighting key promotional messages. Large-format graphics on fabric and dye sublimation printing achieved a color spectrum beyond the limitations of a traditional paper substrate.

![Hunter Boots Retail Environment with Lightboxes](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629989522/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/14.0_Hunter_Blog_-_Lightboxes_Environments_3_b9cax7.jpg)

## Fabric Lightboxes for Bold, Illuminated, Attention-Grabbing Displays

[TLC's](https://thelookcompany.com/) new 50mm (2") custom size fabric lightbox is more functional than regular 100mm (4") frames. It is our thinnest lightbox, leaving more room for your product displays without cluttering up the aisles or floor space. 

No bulky extrusions, no heavy power consumption—dismantle them and ship them with ease. They are lightweight and easy to move around the store. Integrate them into modular display systems as shelving end-caps or on-the-wall features. 

Fabric lightboxes are a great way to engage visitors and convert them into shoppers.

[Talk to The Look Company](/contact) today to elevate the brand experience and enrich your customer's buying journey.

[![Lightbox Guide for Retail Envrionments](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629988936/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta-lightbox-2_duyaxs.jpg)](/products/lightboxes)

Fabric Lightboxes Tell the Story Your Customers Want to Be a Part of

Engaging customers in your stores is good for business. Not only can you extend dwell times, but also highlight featured products and brands. Customers are more likely to interact with displays that catch their attention. What better way to do so than to light up the message visually through graphic lightboxes located in key locations throughout your retail establishment?

## What Are Lightboxes?

Lightboxes consist of a printed graphic lit up from the back or side by LEDs housed in a metal frame or extrusion. The result is an eye-catching, bright image that attracts the attention of viewers. Unlike traditional signage which typically uses outside light sources to highlight an image from a distance, lightboxes themselves become the illuminated brand image. They increase viewer engagement by standing out amongst non-lit graphics as well as interior store lighting fixtures and systems.

![Escada Outlet Window Display for Retail](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629988981/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/13.0_Escada_Outlet_-_Social_and_blog_post_1_wuolgd.jpg)

## Where Should You Consider Using Lightboxes?

With unparalleled print resolution, our fabric tension graphics and aluminum extrusions can light up [any space whether it’s for retail](/markets/retail-solutions), sports or events. These types of facilities have used lightboxes to increase customer or audience engagement by illuminating brand images and messaging in:

*   Specialty stores
    
*   Multi-store chains
    
*   Auto showrooms
    
*   Department stores
    
*   Restaurants
    
*   Conference centers
    
*   Health clubs
    
*   Offices
    
*   Grocery stores
    
*   Meeting rooms
    
*   Public transit
    
*   Hotels
    
*   Stadiums
    
*   Airports
    
*   Arenas
    
*   Schools
    
*   College and universities
    
*   Theatres
    

## What Sizes of Lightboxes Are There?

We offer a wide range of lightbox solutions including:

*   36mm (1.5") One sided Light Guided Plate (LGP)
    
*   50mm (2") One sided, BackLit
    
*   100mm (4") One sided, Perimeter Lit
    
*   100mm (4") One sided, BackLit
    
*   120mm (4.5") Two sided, Perimeter Lit
    
*   120mm (4.5") One or Two sided Corner Lightbox Pillars and Halos
    

## Where Are Lightboxes Effective in Retail Environments?

**_Integrated Into Existing Display Fixtures_**

Build lightboxes into [your existing display fixtures](/markets/retail-solutions) or design custom displays using our modular partition system. Highlight your brand or products by offsetting the non-lit components of your display with back or perimeter lit graphic lightboxes.

![Retail pop up display](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629988980/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/13.0_Modular_Partition_display_with_lightbox_-_lightbox_guide_kqb24d.jpg)

**_Ceiling Hung Identification Signage_**

Suspending a Corner Lightbox or Double-Sided Lightbox from the ceiling creates a dynamic primary identification sign that can be visible from multiple angles. Utilize the space above shelves for an uninterrupted sightline to define and direct customers to departments, sections or specific brands. 

**_Window Displays_**

Window displays that are designed with lightboxes appeal to customer traffic outside the store. Grab your customers' attention and invite them into your immersive environment. With [easy graphic changeouts](/markets/retail-solutions), change the look and feel of your window display to keep your design fresh and new.

![Indigo window display lightboxes](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629988981/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/13.0_Indigo_-_giant_lightboxes_dec_fsyoor.jpg)

**_Pillar Wraps_**

Cover up structural beams or pillars with lightboxes to add brightly lit branded messaging throughout your space. These elements can help create a cohesive retail experience by repurposing architectural features that would otherwise be non-lit.

**_Fins & Toppers_**

Sometimes all you need is a little bit of light at the top or extruding out of your display to capture the attention of browsing customers. Lightbox fins and toppers are an ideal way to help extend existing brand space on merchandising systems. Incorporate lightboxes into slatwall systems, shelf units, or projecting from walls.

**_Freestanding & Table Toppers_**

Provide visual cues for shoppers by placing moveable freestanding lightboxes in product displays or along high-traffic aisles. By adding lightboxes in these areas, you can help customers identify products on racks, on stands or in departments. 

**_On the Wall Treatments_**

Use graphic lightboxes on your walls to tell a brand story or as a secondary lighting source to illuminate your retail space. Build lightboxes into arches or across the ceiling of your store to create a warm, alluring environment for your customers.

![on the wall lightbox for automotive gallery](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629988980/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/13.0_Lightbox_Guide_-_Blog_Image_2_jg5kw2.jpg)

**_Top of Wall Runners_**

Top of wall runners finish unused space above merchandising racks and fixtures. As a low-cost décor solution, top of wall runners designed with lightboxes can be a great alternative to expensive finish carpentry or traditional wall treatments such as wallpaper, tile, brick, trim moldings, wainscot, or wooden panels. Bring the outside light in-store by using lightboxes as faux windows or landscapes.

## What Are Tension Fabric Graphics with SEG?

All of our lightboxes are outfitted with tension fabric silicone edge graphics, printed through dye sublimation. Dye sublimated graphics contain a high saturation of ink in a two-stage process to lock in the bold, vibrant colors and crisp lines. Dye sublimated fabric prints naturally diffuse light and does not reflect other lighting so there’s no surface glare. 

In addition, the prints with SEG stretch taut over the aluminum extrusions, providing a smooth, wrinkle-free graphic. Compared to traditional substrates such as paper, the fabric does not scratch or tear during shipping or installation, prolonging the quality and ensuring your graphics look pristine for the duration of use.

## The Look Company: A Complete Solution Provider

The Look Company is a complete solution provider. We offer end-to-end in-house design, hardware manufacturing, printing, kitting, project management, and installation. Since we design and manufacture the extrusions in-house, we can produce custom graphic lightbox solutions to satisfy a range of any project requirements.

Our lightboxes utilize our award-winning printed fabric graphics and customizable modular frames and are available in a wide range of sizes to meet every need, from space-saving slim designs to seamless corner lightboxes. [Contact us](https://thelookcompany.com/#contact) for the best ideas and applications of lightboxes for your retail environment.

[![Lightbox Guide for Retail Envrionments](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629988936/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta-lightbox-2_duyaxs.jpg)](/products/lightboxes)

Types of Lightboxes & Where You Should Use Them

COVID-19 took away one of the most defining aspects of a live sports event—the crowds. A sports arena—whether it is a stadium or an auditorium, an ice rink or a sports field—comes alive with the passion of thousands of spectators. Live sports events rule the hearts and minds of die-hard fans. 

Sports brings together people from otherwise diverse backgrounds and beliefs. It is a unifier, an equalizer, a glue that bonds them together. And the stadium is a social hub—much more than a physical location. It's a place where emotions run high. Watching a live game is a shared, social experience made richer by the collective power of sports-crazy fans and supporters.

Fans are as crucial for the sports industry as are their star players. Why? Quite simply because fans rake in revenues. The presence of these fans impacts every aspect of the sporting industry. When fans engage with a sports brand or team, it sets the cash registers rolling in more ways than one. They are consumers of sports content and branded merchandise, seat tickets, and the venue's hospitality facilities. For sports fans, it is not just about buying products but [a feeling of belonging](https://agencyinmotion.com/the-psychology-of-belonging/) to a larger movement.  And this is the essence of the fan experience.

![grey cup graphics the look company toronto 104](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629988753/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/12.0_TF_-_Sport_Blog_-_Fan_Experience_Grey_cup_104_qqhczp.jpg)

At The Look Company, we design fully planned, branded, immersive experiences throughout the venue. Our innovative solutions provide a much larger canvas to sports brands and game sponsors. Wall-mounted frames and lightboxes with custom printed SEG fabric throughout the stadium concourses are just some of the creative ways in which we engage fans.

We design innovative broadcast visibility solutions for field-of-play areas and behind-the-scenes stadium areas like the locker rooms and corporate suites. Take a look at how we transformed the look of the [Tim Hortons Field](/case-studies/tim-hortons), home of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the CFL (Canadian Football League), the Forge FC of the CPL (Canadian Premier League), and the Canadian Football Hall of Fame.

## The new normal: A new type of sports fan emerges

As we adapt to a new normal, a dramatic new fan profile is emerging. This sports fan is as passionate as before but more open to new types of sports entertainment. Today's fans accept that we may be devoid of the full-house stadium effect for a long time. They are content being a part of a fan club that may not physically be present at the same location.

They are also hungry for new forms of sports content and seek out more choices.

They engage in unique ways with their favourite sports teams and star players. They seek out engaging, interactive, and immersive experiences. They may spend less time consuming sports content and tend to move quickly from one channel to another. The industry now recognizes this profile as the [fluid fan](https://www.sportsilab.com/reports).

## Local fans vs global fans vs fluid fans

In the 20th century, we saw local fans who followed their favourite sports on radio, TV, and through newspaper reports. From the late 1900s to 2020, the global fan was most predominant. This type of sports fan supported international teams in addition to local ones. Satellite TV or cable TV, and later OTT platforms were the media of choice. This fan also followed private leagues.

Late 2020 onwards, a new fan profile emerged—the [fluid fan](https://www.digitalistmag.com/customer-experience/). Known to change allegiances, this type of fan moves quickly from channel to channel and from team to team.

The fluid fan is 'constantly-on' and consumes content online on smart devices, mobile apps, and social media. But even the fluid fan values the in-person experience that live games offer. After all, watching a pay-per-view performance on a mobile screen cannot match the exhilaration of witnessing it from among hordes of screaming fans.

The fluid fan carries the online experience into the live arena, interacts digitally while at a live game and circles back to take the online conversation into the stadium. This fluidity creates truly memorable experiences.

## Designing fan experiences for the fluid fan

We are in an era where sports meets technology.

We're at the crossroads of digital and mobile. The fluid fan prefers an experience that is immersive, tech-enabled, and omnichannel. How do you design experiences for the fluid fan? How do we recreate the excitement, passion, exhilaration, and feeling of loyalty that characterized fan experiences pre-COVID?

![NHL Centennial Classic Toronto 2017 fan Experience](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629988754/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/12.0_TF---Centernnial-Classic-NHL-2017-Fan-Experience_ln8awn.jpg)

At The Look Company, we create experiential ecosystems. Consistent visual messaging across all channels is more critical now than ever. Our visual engagement displays are tailored to communicate your brand's story and allow fans to experience your brand through multiple touch-points. From the parking lot to the stadium seats, we create environments that make fluid fans put down their phones and truly immerse themselves in the game.

## How do TLC products enhance fan experience?

[Fan experience](/markets/sporting-and-events) is about feeling like you're part of the game. The possibilities are endless and our work at Mosaic Stadium in Regina, Saskatchewan completely captures the fan excitement and die-hard dedication. Watch how we transformed this sports stadium with the fan in mind:

\[VIDEO\] [https://youtu.be/NcmlIqe4J0o](https://youtu.be/NcmlIqe4J0o)

Graphics and visual solutions for sports arenas and stadiums create branding and recognition for teams. They unite teams, spectators, and audiences, create a unique environment for fans to enjoy—branded visual solutions bring prominence and attention to sponsors and corporate partners. They bring in revenue through advertising and corporate hospitality. Branded merchandise promotes fan loyalty. 

## TLC solutions for the new normal in sports stadiums and arenas

[The Look Company](/) (TLC) specializes in visual engagement solutions that aesthetically unify stadiums, teams, and sponsors. Our solutions are uniquely designed to engage fluid fans, and those watching sports broadcast online and on smart devices. [Stadium seat covers](https://thelookcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/TLC-Sport-SeatKills-2020.pdf), for example, provide sponsorship opportunities and enhance broadcast visibility.

The eye-catching visuals on these seat covers look great—but they are also helpful in maintaining safe distancing between players and the audience by blocking off rows of seats. Made of Perfknit or Polywoven fabric, these covers are custom-printed to communicate your team's branding to the fans in the arena and those watching the broadcast. With an easing of lockdowns and social distancing norms, we are now starting to welcome fans back into sports arenas.

TLC has a range of [custom-designed products](/markets/sporting-and-events), and solutions to promote sponsor brands, sell team merchandise, and entice fans and corporate guests into the venue's hospitality sections. With flags, banners, floor decals, wayfinding signages, media backdrops, stadium exteriors, fence scrims, and field-of-play (FOP) visual elements, we've got the fan experience covered in every part of the venue! 

Our visual engagement solutions fully outfit your sports venue for a superior fan experience. We understand fan behaviour and map the fan's journey to capture their attention and fuel their loyalty to the game and their star teams. 

We're obsessive about design and aesthetics, and we look to innovate and customize solutions for every client. 

[Connect with us](/contact) to find the right look for your sports venue or event today!

How Graphic Displays Elevate the Fan Experience in Stadiums and Sports Fields

The COVID-19 pandemic didn’t change the way we shop—we already shopped online—but it accelerated how comfortable we are with ecommerce and it put pressure on web-based retail to improve user experience (UX) both online and offline. Smaller retailers adopted a hybrid in-store/eCommerce model: Retail stores could remain open or those locations could be repurposed into fulfillment centers for online orders.

## The Shift From Traditional Commerce To Ecommerce

In 2020, total retail sales in Canada hit record declines, dropping by 1.5% overall. Brick-and-mortar stores were hit hardest as retail ecommerce sales reached a record $3.9 billion in May, a [110.8% increase](https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/45-28-0001/2020001/article/00064-eng.htm) compared to May 2019. In the United States, total retail sales increased in 2020 by 6.9%, hitting $4.04 trillion in 2020. Ecommerce sales represented $861.12 billion of the overall expenditure, [up 44%](https://www.digitalcommerce360.com/article/us-ecommerce-sales/) from 2019.

![Retail sales ecommerce penetration graph blog MFCs](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629987213/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/11.0_Retail_salese_ecommerce_penetration_graph_blog_MFCs_dlil4l.png)

Ecommerce order portals could handle this influx of orders, but the supply chain for order delivery was configured for old projections; shipping networks struggled to keep up and backend fulfillment was bottlenecked. Shipping delays were even more pronounced because of social distancing protocols. Retail chains struggled to deliver their goods on time. [Canada Post reported](https://globalnews.ca/news/7048741/coronavirus-canada-post-delay/) shipping parcels at record levels—even well into June of 2020—the mail system could not keep up with customer demand.

What was the best solution to ease postal pressure?

Retailers explored a new shipping model where retail stores doubled as micro-fulfillment centers (MFCs)—and that pivot paid off.

## What is a Micro-Fulfillment Center?

Nathan Schmies, Vice President of supply chain operations at Hub Group [shared his definition with Supply Chain Dive](https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/supply-chain-micro-fulfillment-grocery-last-mile/589848/): Micro-fulfillment refers to “a hybrid model that uses smaller facilities that are much closer to consumers.”

This has also been referred to as “last mile delivery.” Logistics company DHL describes MFCs as a concept that places small-scale warehouse facilities in accessible, urban locations that are close to the end-consumer—in that last mile.

Think of MFCs as AirBnBs for shipping logistics.

Tiny storage spaces rent out to retailers as needed (or convert from a retail store to a distribution center). This makes consumers happy in two ways:

1.  Parcels arrive fast (in 2-3 days)
    
2.  Customers could pick up their parcels at an MFC the same day.
    

Both make it easier for retailers to scale and offer fast, efficient, cost-effective home delivery. But it is option #2 that **presents a new branding opportunity in 2021.** BOPIS (buy online pick up in-store) is a new venue to communicate value and customer-focused branding impact. Curbside pickup is even more convenient than next-day shipping. Micro-fulfillment centers cut down the distance between product and purchaser, reducing delivery costs, meeting changing consumer extractions, and enhancing the online shopping experience at the ground level.

![micro fulfillment center new opportunity for branding interior exterior store](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629987216/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/11.0_MFC_-_Pickup_Center_tqazit.jpg)

## Micro-Fulfillment Centers: A Brand New Channel For New Branding

Micro-fulfillment centers aren’t a stop-gap tactic—they are quickly becoming the popular modern fulfillment strategy. In urban areas, MFCs are already widely-used and already expanding options that give retailers more flexibility while limiting costs.

MFCs represent an exciting new branding opportunity—a brand new channel for companies to communicate their message to consumers when they pick up their order (where online connects with offline) making pickup a great experience.

Curbside pickup is an exciting new frontier for branding agencies to reach the consumer at the curb… and even before the curb.

The micro-fulfillment centers environment is a blank canvas waiting to engage your customers visually, integrate branded components seamlessly, and tailor curbside pickup experiences in imaginative, innovative ways. That’s what we’ve always done at The Look Company, and we can’t wait to obsess about the details of how this new space will appeal to modern consumers in a way that’s innovative, authentic and adaptable.

Our purpose is to create visually striking, interconnected, large-scale graphic solutions that connect you to your audience using visual infrastructure from engaging retail signage to captivating curbside displays that are both functional and interactive.

We integrate [mobile technology](https://thelookcompany.com/retail-2/product-categories/mobile-engagement-retail-displays/) into our visual display solutions using NFC tap, QR Codes, and Bluetooth beacons to make any display interactive on a customer’s smartphone.

Curbside displays could be “tappable” making it fun to find out more about your order, download a coupon, or activate a loyalty program. Mobile integration elevates the experience. It encourages interaction with brand and content, continuing the online conversation at the curb. Interactivity increases brand recall with advertising and digital content from outside the store.

![Snuggle bugz instore connect mobil ecommerce](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629987216/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/11.0_Snuggle_bugz_instore_connect_mobil_ecommerce_phld1o.jpg)

## Connecting a Hybrid Online-to-Offline Customer Experience

Don’t settle for boring! Extend your customer’s interactive experience and access to your web content throughout the pickup environment. Customers want [a better experience](https://thelookcompany.com/retail-2/connect-in-store/). Use the exterior of the MFC to continue the conversation that began with your advertising or web and app initiatives. The end result will be an increase in conversions and brand awareness and loyalty.

The Look Company provides maximum exposure at any micro-fulfillment center. Fabric graphics are a low-cost solution with high impact. Keep that going with wall-mounted exterior tension graphics, flag, and vertical banner systems.

We’ve perfected our printing process over the past 20 years. That’s why our products fill sport stadiums across the continent, creating the ultimate fan experience for Major League Baseball (MLB), the National Hockey League (NHL), the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), world championships—even The Olympics. We know how to wow from the parking lot to the curb to the pickup counter.

The Look Company products extend your out-of-store conversation, guiding the consumer from the moment they enter the parking lot. As your customer walks in, take advantage of dynamic light-filled displays that connect customers to brands via sensory stimulus. Our visually-captivating displays create an immersive experience. And at the store level, we excel at drawing in crowds from the hallway.

At [The Look Company](https://thelookcompany.com/), we’re driven by visual engagement. We are excited about the wave ecommerce is riding but we’re also creative realists; humans are tactile beings who like to see and hear and touch. That’s where we shine! We create engaging environments that appeal to foot traffic customers at the store level and at MFC pickup locations.

As innovators, we scrum on how we can make an experience more enjoyable and more meaningful for your customer. In 2021, that experience looks at micro fulfillment centers, driving sales through a connected online-offline experience.

## The Look Company Improves Customer Service in Retail

At [The Look Company](https://thelookcompany.com/), our mission is to [support](https://thelookcompany.com/retail-2/) retailers’ needs, connecting you with your customers through engagement. Improving your in-store customer shopping experience is what we do with professional, attractive, innovative products that positively impact the retail journey. To learn more, [take a look at our product guide](https://thelookcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Product-Guide-2020_.pdf).

The Look Company transforms retail environments by delivering innovative graphic display systems in a wide range of applications. Our retail solutions focus on best-in-class, lightweight, reusable aluminum extrusions, and award-winning fabric prints with silicone edge graphics or SEG. Customized for retail, this system allows The LOOK Company to produce a large volume and a diverse range of products. [Contact us](/contact) for a solution for your retail business.

[![50mm 2 Inch Thick Lightbox for Retail environments](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629985877/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta-lightbox_g2v9ao.jpg)](/products/lightboxes)

Micro-Fulfillment Centers: A Brand New Experiential Branding Opportunity

Customer service looks different in 2021 from how it has looked for the last 100 years. That’s because retail is changing for the first time in 100 years.

The format of the modern-day grocery store [made its debut](https://www.iamrobotics.com/how-will-micro-fulfillment-centers-change-the-retail-industry/) in 1916. Clarence Saunders opened The Piggly Wiggly, a store lined with shelving where items were displayed with tags to show the price clearly. Genius! Saunders’ store concept tied marketing together with fulfillment. And that store model stayed relatively unchanged for a century.

But, 100 years later, consumer behavior has changed—there are new consumer segments—and retailers are coming up with innovative customer experience (CX) strategies that deliver modern value.

## The Shifting Retail Climate

While grocery stores and other retail stores remained virtually unchanged for a century, something happened recently that [paved the way](https://www.iamrobotics.com/how-will-micro-fulfillment-centers-change-the-retail-industry/) for a different model. That something was digital transformation. People are plugged in like never before and that opens the door to choice and gives us instant access to what we choose.

In the last ten years, ecommerce has gone from a new concept to standard commerce. Smartphones and 4G (LTE) wireless networks kicked off this consumer leap around 2010 when smartphones with large screens flooded the market en masse and packets of data reached internet speeds that could handle online transactions. Fast forward a decade where 5G is deploying across North America alongside the Internet of Things (IoT), data lakes, artificial intelligence, biometric authentication, and robot-assisted fulfillment.

Apps like Amazon put hundreds of thousands of products from around the world on your phone, making it easy to add any one of them to your cart in a matter of swipes, with an increased likelihood of receiving that item later that day.

Retailers are navigating the shifting winds of the modern retail climate that’s a hybrid of in-store and online. A century after Piggly Wiggly’s innovative open shelf product staging, consumers want more than products and price tags. They want convenient ways to get what they want, from product description to cart experience to expedited delivery (or in-store pickup).

With a grand shift like that, you see spin-offs:

*   A move to urban areas, with 54 percent of the world’s population living in cities. This number is projected to rise to 68 percent by 2050
    
*   The long-term effects of instant gratification and a consumer-driven desire for faster acquisition of goods
    

When you add opportunities to connect and communicate directly (and publicly) with consumers via store social media pages, there’s no question that customer service in retail has changed.

**The question becomes, how can retailers improve customer service at the street level _and_ in the Cloud?**

![6 strategies to create a meaningful customer service experience](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629986091/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/10.0_Artboard_1_copy_7_4x-100-compress_bgf3t7.jpg)

## 1\. Focus on Customer Engagement and Connection

The future of retail relies on finding effective ways to engage with customers. Customers aren’t looking for the lowest price or the best bargain anymore. They are willing to pay a slightly higher price for goods and services if it means a better shopping experience. Customer experiences _matter_ and a positive, memorable shopping experience is in demand. Do an excellent job of CX, and customers become your best marketing ambassadors.

What [bolsters customer engagement and builds brand loyalty](https://fitsmallbusiness.com/customer-engagement-strategies-and-tips/)?

Every point-of-sale moment is another chance to build relationships. Demonstrate customer care by paying attention. Provide your customer with fast service and access to the goods they need, plus a positive shopping experience in your store.

*   Remember that customer service is an opportunity. Nearly [seventy-six percent of shoppers](https://fitsmallbusiness.com/customer-engagement-strategies-and-tips/) worry about ease of concern resolution. As more brick-and-mortar stores expand their reach online, your physical location doubles as a hub for face-to-face support for more personal engagement. Start by processing online sales returns in stores and converting in-store returns into sales to transform dissatisfied shoppers into loyal customers.
    
*   Display donation kiosks and signage in your store. Customers will go out of their way to support a business that gives back to their community or a local nonprofit. Eye-catching visuals will engage your customers and connect them to your brand. [64% of customers](https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/marketing-and-sales/our-insights/adapting-customer-experience-in-the-time-of-coronavirus#) want to buy from socially-responsible brands, a figure that has shown significant growth over the past two years.
    
*   [McKinsey & Company](https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/marketing-and-sales/our-insights/adapting-customer-experience-in-the-time-of-coronavirus#) suggests reaching out to your customers—with support, not marketing. When you make your employees and your community a priority and stay true to your company’s purpose and values, your customers notice that.
    

![improve customer experience in-store retail](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629986091/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/10.0_6_points_to_improve_customer_service_in_retail_img1_jl9brb.jpg)

## 2\. Implement Curbside, Contactless, and Free Delivery

For years, mass merchants like Walmart and Target were the only ones to explore _buy online pickup in-store_ (BOPIS) services. Now, more and more retailers realize that this is a service consumers are eager to use, which is why BOPIS grew by [60.4 percent in 2020](https://fitsmallbusiness.com/customer-engagement-strategies-and-tips/). What appeals to this out-of-store [contactless (BOPIS) consumer segment](https://www.retaildive.com/news/after-covid-19-is-curbside-delivery-here-to-stay/577937/)?

*   64 percent want to avoid shipping costs
    
*   37 percent want to get their goods faster
    
*   36 percent want to gain access to promotional discounts
    

Contactless, curbside, and free delivery options are not a fad—they’re now standard for customer expectations. Many consumers will continue to take advantage of this service for years to come thanks to speed and convenience.

That being said, [62% of grocery shoppers](https://fitsmallbusiness.com/customer-engagement-strategies-and-tips/) still prefer in-store shopping. They like Saunders’ model where products are on display for try-on. They want an experiential environment that is bright and light-filled with graphic examples conveying the energy and purpose behind brands (the physical, sensory experience).

## 3\. Use Micro-Fulfillment Centers for Faster, More Efficient Delivery

Micro-fulfillment centers are popping up everywhere as last-mile solutions for lower shipping costs and faster deliveries. [Micro-fulfillment centers](https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/supply-chain-micro-fulfillment-grocery-last-mile/589848/), or MFCs, are smaller distribution centers that are geographically closer to consumers than large-scale warehouses.

These small-scale shipping facilities act like Airbnb for logistics. MFCs are rented out to retailers as needed, and some use [artificial intelligence, analytics, and even robots](https://lot.dhl.com/glossary/micro-fulfillment/) to pick, pack, and deliver goods autonomously. Other MFCs partner with local delivery companies to offer perks like next-day and even same-day delivery—a desirable customer service offer.

![micro fulfilment centers window branding displays for retail](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629986092/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/10.0_6_points_to_improve_customer_service_in_retail_img3_kc2uti.jpg)

## 4\. Begin Your In-store Customer Experience Journey Outside

Your store isn’t limited to what’s inside; the outside matters! Consider your customer’s journey: they enter your store, select products, go through the checkout process, possibly customer service, and exit the store.

Retailers today [design for the outer face](/blog/retail-trends-to-watch-for-in-2021/). Store exteriors are a frontier space to communicate with consumers before they step foot inside. Innovation here wins the day—design beautiful, engaging graphics to pull customers in. Use pop-up kiosks for convenient returns and exchanges. Add promotion displays in lineup areas, at pick-up windows, and drive-thrus. These are prime opportunities to reach out to customers and make invaluable connections early in their buying journey.

The next hurdle for retailers? Finding a way to technology to bridge the gap between ecommerce and in-store consumers.

![connect with customers outside signage for retail](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629986092/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/10.0_6_points_to_improve_customer_service_in_retail_img2_b4ds6f.jpg)

## 5\. Connecting Online & Offline Brand Experiences

As customers grow more comfortable with online shopping, brick-and-mortar retailers can establish new ways to connect with potential customers with pop-up stores, product galleries, and online ordering interfaces within a physical store. This is a personal, tangible way to introduce a new brand to customers to make informed buying decisions.

Now is the time to add interactivity to your store. In-store technology is both a customer engagement/marketing tool and a health and safety strategy.

By [incorporating digital processes into in-store shopping](/blog/integrate-online-shopping-in-a-furniture-gallery/) and highlighting merchandise in well-designed, visually appealing retail displays, customers are empowered to read reviews, customize their purchases, browse, and interact with your brand using features like:

*   Lightboxes
    
*   SEG extrusion frames
    
*   Integrated digital content
    
*   Reconfigurable modular partitions
    

Retailers might even consider digital screens to showcase customer reviews and testimonials or to demonstrate product features that connect with consumers in stores.

## 6\. Incorporate Wayfinding and Self-Checkouts

There are customers who think of in-store browsing as fun, relaxing retail therapy, and then there are customers who want to get to the store, find the products they need quickly, checkout, and go. They want the process of shopping to be efficient, not leisurely. This consumer segment appreciates wayfinding signage to know where to go to get the goods they seek. [Wayfinding](/blog/retail-trends-to-watch-for-in-2021/) look like this:

*   Clear navigation routes (This way to…)
    
*   Backlit identification signs (You are here—hooray!)
    
*   Free-standing kiosks, digital displays, or full wall treatments (Self-checkout)
    

All of these can be moved and rearranged to meet the needs of a streamlined brick-and-mortar store.

[Self-checkouts](https://thelookcompany.com/retail-trends-to-watch-for-in-2021/) add convenience and improve the overall customer experience. Customers value payment process flexibility. Skip the line self-checkout reduces wait times and puts purchase control in customer’s hands, something that improves satisfaction and casts a positive light on the overall store experience.

Combine wayfinding and self-checkout to direct ready-to-buy consumers to user payment portals with a clear path to post-purchase exit!

![retail wayfinding solutions for customer experience](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629986092/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/10.0_6_points_to_improve_customer_service_in_retail_img4_tlk2wf.jpg)

## The Look Company Improves Customer Service in Retai**l**

At [The Look Company](/), our mission is to support retailers’ needs, connecting you with your customers through engagement. Improving your in-store customer shopping experience is what we do with professional, attractive, innovative products that positively impact the retail journey. To learn more, [take a look at our product guide](https://thelookcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Product-Guide-2020_.pdf).

The Look Company transforms retail environments by delivering innovative graphic display systems in a wide range of applications. Our retail solutions focus on best-in-class, lightweight, reusable aluminum extrusions, and award-winning fabric prints with silicone edge graphics or SEG. Customized for retail, this system allows The LOOK Company to produce a large volume and a diverse range of products. [Contact us](/contact) for a solution for your retail business.

[![50mm 2 Inch Thick Lightbox for Retail environments](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629985877/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta-lightbox_g2v9ao.jpg)](/products/lightboxes)

A 6-Point Plan to Improve Customer Service in Retail

## How to Create an Engaging Retail Environment

What do you see when you enter a retail storefront? Do you see the merchandise? Do you see the brand? Do you see the front window display? In fact, you may see the total environment, not one aspect alone. 

One of the most effective ways to create a cohesive retail space and emphasize the visual appeal of your product offerings is through dynamic and effective lighting. Above all, if you’re vying for your customers’ attention to certain areas or products, creating a visual hierarchy within your store can help filter out the noise. What better way to accomplish this than to light up your signage and [incorporate lightboxes](https://experience.thelookcompany.com/50mm-2-inch-frame-lightbox-for-tension-graphics) into your store décor?

There are numerous studies about how effective lighting can create drama, ambiance, extend dwell times, and enrich the shopping experience. At the end of the day, you can see for yourself: Which store seems more inviting, entertaining, and provides an engaging brand experience?

![Lightboxes in Retail Environment Storefront](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629985866/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/9.0_Two_up_-_blog_images_-_lightboxes_y2cqhj.jpg)

## Where to Add Lightboxes in Your Store

One of the most overlooked aspects of in-store lighting is the integration of lightboxes into the overall store design. Lightboxes can be placed alongside non lit signage and/or merchandise to drive engagement. But the lesser-known fact is, they can also complement existing in-store lighting through color, intensity, and [eye-catching visuals](https://thelookcompany.com/retail-2). 

There are a lot of in-store elements that compete with your customers’ attention. It could be the number of products on display, wayfinding signage, even music or cell phones. Comparatively, if you add lightboxes to your retail environment, you can help direct focus on specific brands, promotions, or products. 

Consider these applications of lightboxes to engage your customers both inside and outside of your store:

*   Attract attention to anyone outside of your store with lightboxes in your front window displays
    
*   Add lightboxes to endcaps to appeal to the casual browser
    
*   Designate traffic to feature product displays with ceiling hung applications
    
*   Integrate lightboxes into merchandise shelving to highlight brands and products
    

![Furniture Showroom Retail Merchandising Design Lightbox Cube](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629985867/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/9.0_RTG_-_2021_Furniture_Retail_Design_1200x800_z3pmyd.jpg)

Lightboxes have the unique ability to engage viewers through positive emotions. Light itself connects feelings of warmth, happiness, and joy. By lighting up your retail environment with strategically placed backlit images, you can captivate your shoppers and influence their purchase decisions.

The Look Company transforms retail environments by delivering innovative graphic display systems in a wide range of applications. Our retail solutions focus on best-in-class, lightweight, reusable aluminum extrusions, and award-winning fabric prints with silicone edge graphics or SEG. Customized for retail, this system allows The LOOK Company to produce a large volume and a diverse range of products. [Contact us](https://thelookcompany.com/#contact) for a solution for your retail business.

[![50mm 2 Inch Thick Lightbox for Retail environments](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629985877/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta-lightbox_g2v9ao.jpg)](/products/lightboxes)

The Value of Lightboxes in Your Retail Environment

2020 was a year like no other. With the shift to eCommerce retail stores had to adapt quickly to continue to serve their customers both online and offline. Going into 2021, the pandemic will continue to shape brand experiences and retail trends. Below are our top 3 trends to watch for this year.

## Retail Trend 1: A Better Retail Experience

**_Wayfinding:_ Helping customers find what they’re looking for quickly.**

Why? Customers want to get in, find what they are looking for quickly and efficiently, to reduce the amount of time spent in the store. Primary identification and directional signage [helps to direct customers](https://segd.org/wayfinding-where-place-meets-information-design) to where they need to go to get their products or services fast. Clear navigation routes, backlit identification signs or freestanding lightboxes that can be rearranged easily are all important fixtures to your store layout.

**_Integrated Technology:_ Helping customers easily retrieve information they gathered online to make their purchasing decisions quickly.**

Why? Customers do not want to touch screens or surfaces for help. They may not want to speak to an associate for directions or information. Technology that has been integrated or working along with signage could [bridge the gap between eCommerce and in-store merchandising](https://thelookcompany.com/integrate-online-shopping-in-a-furniture-gallery/), providing a platform for receiving in-store promotions or product information. Digital screens built into modular partition systems could showcase customer reviews and testimonials of products through videos.

**_Self-Checkouts:_ Reducing the amount of time spent in a queue to make a purchase.**

Why? Giving customers the flexibility of paying for their items without having to wait in lines or have another person touching their merchandise allows them to purchase goods in a way they’re comfortable with. When providing a choice of when and how a purchase is made can add more satisfaction with the overall retail experience. Directions to and clear messaging on how to use self-checkout areas are a great way to promote and accommodate ease of use.

![Walmart self checkout visual engagement solution](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629985577/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/8.0_walmart_-_June_2020_Social_odk33u.jpg)

**_Point-of-sale Promotions:_ Stocking the high-traffic area at checkouts with wishlist items, sales promotions or brand spotlights rather than smaller grab-and-go merchandise.**

Why? Smaller point-of-sale items are typically located at the checkout counter for last minute purchases. The checkout area is one of the highest traffic areas, large ticket items or strategically placed promotions available in-store only, could be located there instead. As casual browsing has become a novelty, it’s time to rethink impulse buying. Adding key visual engagement elements, promotions or advertisements could drive more sales for large ticket items at checkout.

## Retail Trend 2 - Bringing the Inside, Out

Your store is not just the inside, but the outside too. Considering the entire customer journey, from lining up outside to enter when there are capacity limits, to retrieving products, checkout, customer service and returning to the parking lot. More retailers will be designing and communicating on the outside of stores too. Look for more pop-up kiosks for returns or exchanges, promotions displayed in the lineup area, pick-up windows or drive-thrus. Communication in these areas will be more prominent and valuable to the customer.

![Indigo Large Lightbox window display](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629985576/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/8.0_Indigo_-_giant_lightboxes_dec_hejdvc.jpg)

## Retail Trend 3 - Transforming Retail Outlets

Look for businesses to transition under utilized stores into fulfillment centers and highlight flagship stores for maximized shopping experiences. Shoppers are now choosing to browse and research purchases online and then pick up merchandise at a distribution outlet on the same day for popular items. This could also be an opportunity for brands and merchandisers to team up and present pop-up galleries of their popular items or curated product bundles. [Configurable extrusions and display showcases](https://thelookcompany.com/how-to-easily-refresh-your-furniture-showroom-design/) in fulfillment centers can introduce new products or intrigue customers who are just stopping by.

## Customer Experience and Preference is Key

Whether it’s refreshing your interior layouts, adding digital, in-store convenience or customer service, continuing to evolve and grow will remain a top priority for many retailers. Retail will continue to shift to online this year, but that doesn’t mean the offline space won’t remain an important one. If implemented correctly, it can complement its online counterpart to bring a brand to life and give it an edge against competitors. Most importantly, visual engagement systems in your store have never been more important to communicate with your customers to assure them of a safe and exceptional shopping experience.  

The Look Company transforms retail environments by delivering innovative graphic systems in a wide range of applications. Our retail solutions focus around best-in-class, lightweight, reusable aluminum extrusions and award-winning fabric prints with a silicone edged graphic or SEG. Customized for retail, this system allows The LOOK Company to produce a large volume and a diverse range of solutions. [Contact us](https://thelookcompany.com/#contact) for a solution for your retail business.

![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629985554/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta-environments_y3wopw.jpg "Graphic Solutions for Retail Environments and Furniture Showrooms")

Retail Trends to Watch For in 2021

Barrie, Ontario – The Look Company announced today that it has achieved G7® Master Facility Qualification and joins a select group of print service providers who have successfully completed training, examination, and qualification process of their print production processes, validating their capabilities to the highest level of global industry standards and specifications.

G7 is Idealliance’s industry-leading set of best practices for achieving gray balance and is the driving force for achieving visual similarity across all print processes. The application of this method enables printers to reproduce a similar visual appearance across all printing types and substrates.

“We continually invest in our people and our equipment to achieve the highest output standards for printing on fabric. This G7 Master Certification confirms the commitment of our team in providing our customers with the best results in color quality and consistency,” said Roger Pennell, Director of Operations, Development & Supply

“G7 Master Qualification demonstrates a level of control and expertise that places The Look Company at the top of their field. We applaud their leadership, commitment, and support of the G7 Master Qualification Program,” commented Timothy Baechle, CEO for Idealliance.

According to Gerry Price, CEO of The Look Company, “Achieving our G7 certification coupled with our continuous five year run of winning FESPA Global Fabric Print Awards will assure our clients that we will deliver consistent high-quality printed graphics with every order.”

## About Idealliance

Idealliance is dedicated to guiding media production best practices, specifications, and standards, worldwide. To learn more about G7 Master Qualification, please visit [http://www.idealliance.org](http://www.idealliance.org)

## About The Look Company

The Look Company is an international visual engagement company, producing award winning printed graphics and display systems for retail environments and international sporting events.[Contact us.](https://thelookcompany.com/#contact)

The Look Company Achieves G7 Master Qualification

The Look Company is excited and honored to have won for the fifth year in a row at FESPA Awards 2020. The Look Company Middle East received Gold and Best-In-Show Digital Awards [ANOC World Beach Games Qatar 2019](https://www.fespaawards.com/winners-gallery/2020/c12-roll-to-roll-printed-textiles/anoc-world-beach-games). The Look Company North America took home a Bronze Award for [Walmart Canada Displays](https://www.fespaawards.com/winners-gallery/2020/c1-display-packaging-10/walmart-canada-displays). 

FESPA received entries from 27 countries across the 18 categories. The winners were announced during an online ceremony in lieu of the live Gala awards event which would have taken place during this year’s Global Print Expo in Madrid.

In accepting the awards for ANOC World Beach Games Qatar 2019, Jacob Burke, President, The Look Company Middle East stated, "we would like to thank our employees who consistently maintain our high print standards. Our team's work over the past five years has earned ten FESPA awards including two Best-In-Show Gold Medals".

"Another expansive project completed by the global expert in event branding."

\- FESPA Award Judges

## ANOC World Beach Games Qatar 2019: Gold Winner, Best in Show Digital Award

As Official Look Partner for the ANOC World Beach Games Qatar 2019, this event branding project for the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) combined over 28,600 square metres of branding elements.  It covered 34, 15 metre tall light towers and a vast mix of perimeter advertising, hoarding and event signage built around a total of 213 autocad drawings. The fabric graphics on this project were direct printed and dye sublimated with proprietary fabric coatings to achieve the vibrant final output. Additionally, 110 buses were branded and over 300 square metres of flag fabric were printed and installed across the city. Thank you to the Qatar Olympic Committee for trusting us to execute your vision.

![ANOC World Beach Games 2019 FESPA Gold Best In Show 2020](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629984588/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/6.0_Images_with_FESPA_banners_-_Qatar_Beach_Games_xefbov.jpg)

## Bronze Winner: Walmart Canada Displays

This store branding project for Walmart Canada involved the production of over 850 stretch fabric frames. Utilizing our modular extrusion system, we were able to configure custom display elements such as self check-out areas. The printed fabric graphics were finished with a rubber perimeter so that they could be easily inserted into the frame display structure. Thank you Walmart Canada for this opportunity.

Gerry Price, CEO & President The Look Company North America accepted the award for Walmart Canada Displays. “Such opportunities to push the limits of what is possible in fabric printing would not be possible without the fantastic projects our clients provide us and the confidence they have in our ability to take on large, technically challenging jobs” stated Gerry Price.

![Walmart Canada Retail Brand Experience FESPA Bronze 2020](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629984586/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/6.0_Images_with_FESPA_banners_-_TLC_Walmart_zxkkwp.jpg)

“We would like to thank our trusted partners for your continued support. We look forward to pushing beyond the norm with our clients in the future”, Sebastien Garcin, Managing Director, The Look Company Europe.

## About FESPA Awards

Celebrating print excellence, the FESPA Awards is the only independent print industry awards recognising not only the best print globally, but also the people responsible for its creativity and production. Each year, the talents of outstanding recipients are showcased and judged by industry experts. It is where industry standards are set and it is also where inspiration abounds.

[Visit FESPA Awards Website](https://www.fespaawards.com/)

## About The Look Company

The Look Company is an international visual engagement company, producing display systems and printed graphics for both retail and sport environments.  As an award winning print partner we produce industry leading graphics and display systems for trusted brands such as Samsung, Under Armour, Esteé Lauder, Skechers and Walmart. In addition, our products fill multiple sport stadiums as the provider of branding at The Olympics, Major League Baseball events, National Hockey League games, and several other diverse world championships.

The Look Company Wins Gold, Bronze and Best in Show at FESPA Awards 2020

The desire to acquire goods and services hasn’t diminished, but options as to where, when, or how a consumer can shop have changed dramatically. Take into consideration the recent shift in consumer behaviour driving online sales. As a furniture manufacturer, in order to maintain demand for your brand, it’s imperative that you get in front of your customers, however you can. 

## As customers are becoming increasingly accustomed to online shopping, what can the future hold for brick and mortar stores?

Combining the positive aspects of eCommerce with the familial conditions of a physical store, you can give your customers options to choose to shop how and when they want. 

An omnichannel shopping experience combines a digital and physical presence to help keep your brand top-of-mind and provide ample opportunity for consumers to interact with your brand either online or in a retail setting.

## Create a unique in-store experience that matches your online shopping experience.

If you are looking for new ways to connect with potential customers, it’s imperative to open up channels to engage and nurture sales. You can get your brand noticed in showrooms or other temporary environments by partnering with retailers. Pop-up stores or product galleries within a physical store introduce your brand to new customers and provide them with tangible insights to make informed purchases. 

To contend with physical distancing protocol and online channels, retailers may be reducing the amount of product housed in-store to maximize space and improve the customers’ shopping experience. Incorporating more digital processes, dropshipping strategies, or in-store immersive brand experiences will tailor towards those customers regularly making purchases online, as well as those who prefer in-store shopping. 

By placing your merchandise in well-designed and visually appealing retail displays, you will increase brand awareness and appeal to your customers through their established online purchasing habits.

![furniture appliance showroom design](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629983990/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/5.0_Blog---Connected-Retail-for-Manufacturers---head_2_tjwp5s.jpg)

## Physical locations fuel online growth and brand awareness.

Combine the best of both worlds with a brick and mortar location as well as online eCommerce. Integrating physical elements with digital capabilities enhance the shopping experience by giving the customer preference in how they take in information and ultimately make purchase decisions. 

Provide them with the options to browse, interact with your furniture, read reviews, and customize their order with a system that includes:

*   Lightboxes
    
*   SEG extrusion frames
    
*   Integrated digital content, and; 
    
*   Reconfigurable modular partitions
    

![retail environment design for mattress retailers](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629983991/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/5.0_Blog---Connected-Retail-for-Manufacturers---head_bveauc.jpg)

With a turn-key, all-in-one modular brand display from The Look Company, effortlessly showcase your brand and products within physical stores. Our displays include high-definition tension fabric prints and durable frames that are easily set up, reconfigurable, and reusable. Our in-house production team can manage large capacity print runs, kitting, and quality assurance so you can be confident that quality and brand standards will be fulfilled across multiple store locations.

The Look Company transforms retail environments by delivering innovative graphic systems in a wide range of applications. Our retail solutions focus around best-in-class, lightweight, reusable aluminum extrusions, and award-winning fabric prints with silicone edge graphics or SEG. Customized for retail, this system allows The LOOK Company to produce a large volume and a diverse range of products. [Contact us](https://thelookcompany.com/#contact) for a solution for your retail business.

![Furniture gallery retail environment brand display solutions](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629984007/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta-social_vcffnn.jpg "Graphic Solutions for Retail Environments and Furniture Showrooms")

How to Integrate Elements of Online Shopping into Your Furniture Brand Gallery

Keeping up with current interior design trends can be challenging, especially when constructing your furniture showroom or store layout using traditional building techniques and materials. 

Instead of permanent displays, a turnkey showroom system can replicate professional carpentry and interior finishes without the large price tag. Room partitions made up of portable, easy to configure frames and changeable graphics can transform your space with minimal disruption to your business. Flexible merchandising components give you the opportunity to:

*   Showcase products with interior decor features that are on trend 
    
*   Update the graphic panels to suit your backstock when you move it to the showroom floor
    
*   Easily store panels to use again
    
*   Modify your layout with versatile reconfigured frames
    
*   Highlight brands with sponsored galleries
    
*   Create a dynamic focal point with immersive sight lines
    

In this post, we’ll look at some fresh ideas that can reinvigorate your furniture showroom.

## What is Visual Merchandising, and Why Does it Matter?

[Visual merchandising](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visual_merchandising) is the art of creating exterior, interior, layout, or display spaces that will engage traffic and drive your overall sales. Staging your product strategically in impactful displays can help customers connect and visualize themselves with your inventory.

When you can change the style of your store, it keeps your customers’ interest at a peak level. For a furniture showroom, adding or taking away temporary or seasonal graphics, short term sponsored areas or promotions can add value to your overall sales strategy. Focusing on key areas like exterior facing window displays, store layout, dynamic store interiors, and flexible product displays will help you achieve the results you desire.

## Designing Your Store Exterior

Bring the wow factor to your front display windows or exterior facade, and make a statement to your potential customers before they enter your store. The front facade can be the most important factor in reaching out to new customers and invigorating the interest of your current ones. Easily changeable graphics, built in frames or interactive mobile systems can be what you need to update this vital real estate quickly and with minimal resources.

## Planning Your Store Layout

When designing your store layout, what is your short term solution following a sale? If products have left the showroom floor, you need to reconfigure your space efficiently and quickly. In order to accommodate different products that are introduced to your layout, look at using lightweight and versatile elements that are complementary to the products you’re trying to sell. Modular partitions with silicone edge graphics (SEG) can be assembled as a half-wall treatment or product backdrop on a whim.

## Creating A Dynamic Store Interior

Displaying furniture in vignettes engages customers by allowing them to visualize how the products will look in their home. Grouping items by their functionality or style with coordinating lamps or tables can be further harmonized with an accent wall, floor treatments, and lighting. Use lightboxes configured on a wall to give the illusion of windows with a view of a cityscape, a lakeside retreat, or country homestead. Ceiling mounted frames can give the appearance of a starlit sky or a bright sunny day. Use modular partitions to cap bulkheads to depict exposed ceiling beams.  

![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629982148/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/4.0_Design_Concept_room_for_retail-2_okntq3.jpg)Retail Furniture Showroom Design Concepts

## Building Flexible Product Displays

If you’re using standard product display units or existing millwork, you may think you’re limited to how you can add graphic elements. No more! Start designing your product displays without limits. Modular displays can be reconfigured to suit your merchandising vision and reused or stored for future designs. If you need a custom solution, partner with a supplier who can see a whole project through, from start to finish, and provide recommendations or engineer new solutions to suit your needs.

## Upgrade Your Retail Furniture Showroom Today

If you’re juggling decor concepts ranging from contemporary, arts & crafts or rustic to showcase your furniture products, you need a solution that can be applied to any style. Using permanent fixtures such as framed walls, masonry, paint or wallpaper to style a room, can be costly to keep up-to-date, and require your store to be closed to customers as you build new displays. Innovative [retail environments](https://thelookcompany.com/retail-2/) that have more flexibility are better suited to creativity, ingenuity, and achieving retail sales targets.

The Look Company transforms retail environments by delivering innovative graphic systems in a wide range of applications. Our retail solutions focus around best-in-class, lightweight, reusable aluminum extrusions and award-winning fabric prints with silicone edge graphics or SEG. Customized for retail, this system allows The LOOK Company to produce a large volume and a diverse range of solutions. [Contact us](https://thelookcompany.com/#contact) for a solution for your retail business.

![Graphic Solutions for Retail Environments](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629982185/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta-couch_iv0rbk.jpg "Graphic Solutions for Retail Environments and Furniture Showrooms")

How to Easily Refresh Your Furniture Showroom Design

The retail industry has been thrown a curveball in 2020. The Coronavirus pandemic has disrupted a routine way of living, shopping, and interacting with each other. Previous examples of consumer behaviors and customer purchase decisions that once shaped how retailers conduct their business have been tossed out the window.

Looking at a [Report](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/160569/docs/In-Store-vs-Online-Infographic.pdf) from March 2019 from First Insight:

*   71% of shoppers spend $50 or more in-store versus 54% online. 
    
*   89% of female shoppers and 78% of males were more likely to impulsively purchase items in-store. 
    
*   73% of men and 69% of women prefer shopping in stores when the need for a specific product arises.
    

By taking away the option to shop in brick and mortar stores over the last couple of months, online shopping has become the only method of obtaining goods and services. Looking forward, if customers fall back into familiar routines, retail stores could see a boost in traffic.  Here’s a review of how customer online shopping habits could shift to a preference for in-store shopping in a post-pandemic scenario.

## Shoppers are craving social interaction

After being cooped up at home, consumers are itching to get out. Interacting with others is a basic human need. It’s even more top-of-mind when retail choices are restricted and limitations to what you can and cannot do are imposed for the greater good. Compared to a website, being able to speak with someone, get first-hand recommendations, help with product information takes far less time than trying to navigate through a complicated eCommerce site.

## Shoppers want the experience, not just the products

A well-designed store can heighten consumer experience. Unlike making purchases at home online, the retail environment can immerse customers in [colorful graphics](https://thelookcompany.com/retail-2/), music, and overall pleasurable moments. The right combination of seasonal merchandising and updated images will bring customers back and likely enhance their decisions to make a purchase.
![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629918211/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/3.0_Blog-2---retail-space-design_b8cib5.jpg)
## Shoppers want to try before they buy

Consumers want to engage with a product at the time of purchase. Sure, online shopping allows you to send products back if they’re not the right fit or if the product doesn’t meet expectations. But when given the opportunity, shoppers don’t want the hassle and the buyers’ remorse that comes with purchasing a product online and then having to send it back. In-store shopping allows for careful deliberation based on first-hand or in-person inspection before checkout.

## Shoppers don’t want to wait anymore

Something is missing with the online shopping experience. It’s the instant gratification of holding something in your hand after you’ve purchased it. No wait times, no postage delays, or shipping damage. In-store shopping allows customers to go home with their purchase to start enjoying it immediately.

## Shoppers want to shop locally and support their communities

One key takeaway to come out of the pandemic shutdown is the want and need to support each other in our local communities. Whether it is your neighbor who works at the big-box retailer or the farm-fresh products being sold at the local supermarket chain, consumers are becoming more aware of where their goods are coming from and want to help those local businesses thrive.   

## What’s next for retailers in 2020?

It will be interesting to see how shoppers will assimilate to their old shopping and social habits after the shutdown is lifted. Overall, providing a choice for shoppers to shop as they please, whether online or in-store, should be the top priority of businesses. As a retailer, will you be ready for the future customer? Read our [blog](https://thelookcompany.com/5-ways-retail-stores-can-adapt-for-future-customers/) about how you can adapt your store to accommodate new behaviors and expectations.

The Look Company transforms retail environments by delivering innovative graphic systems in a wide range of applications. Our retail solutions focus around best-in-class, lightweight, reusable aluminum extrusions and award-winning fabric prints with a silicone edged graphic or SEG. Customized for retail, this system allows The LOOK Company to produce a large volume and a diverse range of solutions.[Contact us](https://thelookcompany.com/#contact) for a solution for your retail business.

![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629917523/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta_epk2hl.jpg)

How Online Shopping Habits Will Drive In-Store Retail Preference

There have been many changes to the retail industry over the last few months that may not have been fathomable a year ago. Because of the Coronavirus COVID-19 and in consideration of recommended social distancing and hygienic procedures, retail stores began closing down or operating at a lowered capacity. Some stores were able to direct customers to use eCommerce and online shopping as a primary means to acquire goods and services. 

What will be the outcome of reopening retail stores after a [pandemic shutdown](https://www.nelsonworldwide.com/what-grocery-restaurant-brands-and-consumers-are-learning-from-covid-19/)? Those customers and clients may have evolved. Their in-store behavior and expectations will be different.

In this post, we’ll review ways that retail stores can adapt and prepare for their customers, whether it’s reconfiguring their space or creating a familiar retail experience, following the COVID-19 shutdown.

## What is Retail Strategy, and Why Does it Matter?

A well-defined retail strategy can be the difference between success and failure. Knowing who your customers are and who they are not is paramount, even more so during these unprecedented times. 

What shoppers have been accustomed to during the pandemic should determine what will be on your shelves, how they move throughout the store, how they interact with staff, obtain information and complete the buying cycle. With this in mind, your retail displays, wayfinding, signage, and information kiosks may need to be reconfigured and adapted to meet the new consumer expectations.

## 1\. Bring the online shopping experience to your retail location

With online shopping, customers are becoming increasingly accustomed to making purchases from the comfort of their own home. Similarly, you can evoke a sense of trust and familiarity in-store by applying the functionality of an eCommerce website. 

Mimic your online presence in a retail environment with the same elements that you have established on your website. Make sure you use the same graphics, language, call-to-action, and site navigation as the base of your retail strategy for signage, wayfinding, information, and points of purchase.

## 2\. Enhance the retail experience

Show your customers what they’ve been missing. Online shopping has its positives but compared to venturing out to make a purchase, it’s very one dimensional. Appeal to your customers’ senses through tangible displays, bright colors, and interactive content. Define the [retail experience](https://thelookcompany.com/retail-2/) as more than just an online purchase at the kitchen table or a night in front of the television with a mobile phone.

## 3\. Improve customer service

Improve staff knowledge and provide them with the tools to help customers efficiently. Consider implementing a digital kiosk with a live chat option or AI-driven chatbot software to assist customers with their frequently asked questions anywhere within the store.

## 4\. Increase engagement with interactive displays

An online shopper looks for proof through word-of-mouth recommendations. Provide the opportunity for customers to browse through testimonials from your website on specific products. Adding point-of-sale reviews in your [interactive product displays](https://thelookcompany.com/retail-2/connect-in-store/) will help guide them through the purchasing decision process quicker. 

## 5\. Integrate self-checkouts and curbside pick-ups

Consider time and accessibility within your store layout. With online shopping, a purchase is only a click away and customers get instant gratification. Allow your customers to make purchases throughout the store and so they don’t have to wait in line.

Be flexible with how your customers shop. Some retail stores have developed a curbside pick-up process so that customers can make purchases online and pick them up at their convenience. By combining the best of both worlds, stores can accommodate new shopping habits that will continue to be popular after the pandemic lifts.

## What does the future hold for retailers?

The face of retail as we know it has changed forever. Consumer behavior will shape the retail business and stores will need to adapt to stay open. By reinforcing the brand experience of shopping in-store, retailers will be able to sustain and thrive.

The Look Company transforms retail environments by delivering innovative graphic systems in a wide range of applications. Our retail solutions focus around best-in-class, lightweight, reusable aluminum extrusions and award-winning fabric prints with a silicone edged graphic or SEG. Customized for retail, this system allows The LOOK Company to produce a large volume and a diverse range of solutions.

![0](https://res.cloudinary.com/fortyfournorth/image/upload/v1629917523/The%20Look%20Company/Blogs/cta_epk2hl.jpg)

5 Ways Retail Stores Can Adapt for Future Customers

The Las Vegas Market is the premiere cross-category shopping environment for gift, home décor and furniture. The Look Company worked to outfit several mattress manufacturers' destinations with its premiere line of display products tailored specifically for furniture and mattress storefronts. These include:

*   Custom Freestanding Headboards
    
*   Custom Walls and Partitions
    
*   Innovative Lightbox designs
    
*   Modular Display Systems
    

The modular display system included parts that are easily changed and reconstructed based on the store design concept. The nature of the display components allow for multiple uses and increased functionality. Current and relevant images for future in-store campaigns and promotions can be swapped out with ease.

Las Vegas Market Summer 2019

Read The Look Company Blog to Gain Insights to Help Transform Your Retail and Sport Environments into Memorable Brand Experiences.

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