Welcome to my blogspot where I share significant insights and thoughts on retail: what I see, what wows
me or perhaps tends to disappoint, combined with what I have learnt over the years and what I know
to work for sure. I hope you will find this blog interesting, informative and highly enlightening.

Thursday, September 30, 2010

A fresh take on Spring

Since it’s spring and brands are doing their utmost to promise blooming greatness in every imaginable form and splendor, I thought this signage to be really impactful and fresh in terms of its offering and purpose.


So much more effective than just the usual ‘logo only’ signage, and certainly more credible in terms of its offering.


Way to go khoki, you’re not only “growing minds”, but definitely growing on all of us too!



Monday, September 20, 2010

Crossing that great divide

I was recently reminded how effective and essential cross-merchandising can be. Whilst doing my weekly grocery shopping I was very gently, yet cleverly, directed to the accompanying item I almost forgot to buy. Cross-merchandising in the washing section proved to be a great success, as one is expected to always remember both your washing powder and softener. And the way in which the nifty display unit was placed alongside the powder was so effective!

Wonderful pairing, selection and execution. Well done!



Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Is your brand under construction?


Window displays provide that vital glimpse into a world beyond, which either entices you into going in, bores you into passing by, or repels you into looking the other way. So where do you fit in?


Then, every now and again, there is also a window that has been blocked up by paper, due to relocation or renovation. Now, I’m pretty sure that the cost of the paper which covers those windows is not part of the original marketing budget. And yet it provides the perfect canvas for preparing passers-by for a new shopping experience, unlike anything they’ve imagined, awaiting them in-store.


Sadly, I haven’t come across a hugely original ‘opening’ campaign. I believe it’s because the paper in the windows is the last thing the retailer is thinking about when spending money on revamping the store. What a wasted opportunity!



At least this fashion store managed to use the space to showcase the ‘lifestyle’ of the brands available in the store, whilst at the same time apologizing for inconveniencing their customers. It utilized the entire window area, rather than just a small poster to send out the message. This is the way to go, which is why I liked this window a lot. It exudes a strong brand image, even while the brand is still technically under construction. Master builders at work, I’d say.