Keeping pace with technological advancements, the retail industry has decided not to be left behind on the constantly evolving juggernaut of change. Retail chains with a global presence have had to adapt their architectural design for different regions, countries and cultures, and in the process, these chains have discovered how beneficial it is to make technology their friend, rather than the enemy. Employing the right architectural design drafting and architectural rendering services from reliable Building Information Modelling or BIM outsourcing services providers can go a long way in helping retail chains successfully design their architectural space for multiple concepts.

Retailers are continuously seeking to creatively use technological developments to improve the shopping experience and thus lure customers into stores just when they had started settling down in front of the computer for their shopping. Department stores are installing interactive screens in and around dressing rooms, so that:

This experience could even result in shoppers buying items from the mobile rather than waiting at the check-out.

Technology must be integrated into the shopping experience so that customers have a more enjoyable overall experience. Store designs are beginning to move away from the standard check-out system and related products are displayed in ‘experience zones’. Previously, customers were discouraged from ‘showrooming’, a practice where shoppers visited brick-and-mortar showrooms to experience merchandise before buying them online. Now, stores are being less stringent about showrooming. For instance, staffed counters with products of digital retailers are popping up in larger department stores and placed strategically close to related items. Although the digital retailers’ products must still be purchased online, the shoppers are exposed to displays of its accessories.

Consumers today remember and respond to an experience that is ‘special’ in some way or makes them feel ‘special’. They also appreciate authenticity and a certain old-world charm that reminds them perhaps of a childhood memory. For instance, there are some American bakeries that expose rustic wood, original faded floors, peeling plaster walls and antique lighting to highlight their authenticity. Whether selling cheese or handmade hats, customers want an experience that is original and memorable.

Some of the ways that retailers can adapt for success through architectural design are as follows:

Engage with Customers

Malls Must Renovate

Make Customers Linger

Incorporate Green Building Design

Make It Fast and Flexible

Architectural design must also introduce localisation for acceptance and success. It is necessary for global retail chains to incorporate local tastes of different cultures so that they can entice customers in different parts of the world to try their product even when its citizens are content with their local favourites.

What is localisation?

Firstly, everything about a company and its product needs to be available in the local language. The brand may need to change its colours and look to fit in with the local culture. All the brand literature, including on digital platforms, must be in the local language and adhere to the local culture, preferences, beliefs and laws. An option that global retail chains have is to partner with local firms. The merchandise can then be a mix of local products and brand products. The store designs must reflect the local culture as well.

Retail Chains Across the World

Japan

Saudi Arabia

China

India

Korea