Shop fittings

Shop fitting is the trade of fitting out retail and service shops and stores with equipment and merchandise. The trade applies to all kinds of outlets from a small corner shop to hypermarkets. A shop fitter executes planning, design of shop layout, and most importantly physically stocks the shop with equipment and goods. A shop fitting firm typically incorporates professional expertise in interior design, manufacturing of bespoke furniture, signage and fittings and purchasing of retail equipment.

Shop fitting cycle begins with a survey and measurement of available space and preparing design drawings for submission to the client. Alternatively, the client may have their own drawings prepared by an independent interior designer. The shop fitter arranges for purchase of standard equipment and merchandize or production of bespoke, delivers and physically installs them — until the shop is ready for daily operation.

There are different requirements to the different branches and types of shop. Fashion shop design requires up-to-the-minute awareness of current trends in color and style to create stores that will draw customers in. Successful pub, night club and bar design creates entertaining environments that also help customers relax and feel at ease. Cosmetic shops have small size products with high prices, and needs store design constructed to display the countless types of perfume and personal care products in an inviting manner.