Store Design Elements

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The environments in a store, the design of the store, and the presentation and location of merchandise in the store have a significant impact on shopping behavior. The design of a store or Web site can attract customers to visit the location, increase the time they spend in the store or at the site, and increase the amount of merchandise they purchase. Store design can also have long$-$term effects on building customer loyalty toward the retailer by enhancing the retailer$$s brand image and providing rewarding shopping experiences that encourage repeat visits.

Three elements in the design of stores are the $(1)$ layout, $(2)$ signage, and $(3)$ feature areas. Retailers use three general types of store layout design: grid, racetrack, and free form. Each of these layouts has advantages and disadvantages. Signage and graphics help customers locate specific products and departments, provide product information, and suggest items or special purchases. Feature areas are the areas within a store that are designed to get customers$$ attention.