Construction Checklist: The Modern Retailer
When it comes to the retail industry, customer experience is paramount. Especially today with the rise of ecommerce and online shopping efficiencies, brick-and-mortar stores now have to put the consumer experience first. As a result, retailers are working hard to keep up with this evolution and looking to new and exciting construction options to help.
Consultation & Construction
There are numerous different building types in the retail sector as well, including mixed use, free-standing, superstores or warehouse style, shopping centers or malls, and more. Each unique brick-and-mortar calls for unique considerations. Whether you are planning a new build, retro-fit or renovation, there are numerous key considerations for your project.
Demolition
Rough Carpentry
Finish Carpentry
Doors & Frames
Acoustic Ceilings
Painting
Tile/Carpet/Flooring installation
Fixture installation
Glazing
Signage
Sustainable Options
Furthermore, many retailers are owner/occupiers of a building. Therefore, unlike some other commercial industries, they have a greater interest in whole life cost and added value through sustainable construction. Consequently, the retail industry is leading in the procurement of sustainability and green efforts in construction buildings.
Material selection is one of the easiest ways for general contractors to improve the environmental impact of a project. Selecting materials that are manufactured from recycled products and local sources can drastically improve sustainability on a project. Additionally, LEED points are awarded based on material selection and are even based on the long-term efficiency of appliances and fixtures.
Prefabricated materials, or materials that are pre-cut in a controlled environment, decrease waste and lead to stronger end products. For this reason, selecting prefabricated materials has become a key strategy for saving time and increasing the sustainability of a project.
Construction waste management is focused on two key components: sustainability and cost efficiency. To address these considerations, contractors need to develop site waste management plans, choose environmentally friendly haulers, explore offsite construction options, prepare refurbishment audits, and develop internal communication strategies. With the sustainability of the industry under scrutiny, contractors are facing more pressure than ever to build sustainable waste management plans into every project.
In-Store Experiences
The way consumers shop and purchase products has continued to evolve over the last few decades. With the rise of ecommerce and online shopping efficiencies, especially in a post-COVID world, brick-and-mortar stores have to put the consumer experience first. Retailers are working hard to keep up with this evolution and looking to new and exciting construction options to help.
Floor plans are focused on maximizing, giving retailers the maximum scope to configure store layouts. This will not only help maximize consumer confidence in in-store shopping, but ultimately will grow sales. Especially today, consumers may avoid walking down an aisle if there isn’t sufficient floor space, even if they are interested in the items displayed there.
Natural light is a key consideration as retailers are moving to incorporate a more natural vibe through the use of skylights, UV bulbs, and even plants and water elements in-store. This not only helps create a relaxing atmosphere, but can also provide a share-worthy in-store experience.
Green spaces such as benches, picnic tables, and connected pathways throughout are becoming more popular, especially in mixed-use developments and centers. This trend will continue to evolve as retailers further embrace the open-air concept and integrate natural elements into their construction.
Wi-fi technology is a must-have for many retailers who are relying on general contractors to build in this feature to improve the consumer experience in-store. Offering high speed internet in store allows consumers to browse products and price shop, search for coupons, and of course, share their shopping activity publicly via social media. Furthermore, many retailers want networking abilities so associates can carry tablets and mobile devices to help customers find items or check out with a non-stationary POS system.
If you’d like to learn more about our experience in the retail vertical or what we can do for your next project contact us today.