When you take a moment to recall your first in-store shopping experience, what details come to mind?
Most of us vividly remember our first brick-and-mortar shopping experiences, and I enjoy asking this question. In-store shopping experiences stay with us because they engage our senses and reward us with gratification. When we see, smell, hear, then touch and feel desired products or take time to indulge in selected services, we are making sensory connections. These connections build a brand relationship with preferred products or services. Now, if you are a web-based business, an independent brand, or a small business owner looking to build this brand relationship with new customers but are not interested in a long-term commercial retail lease, consider opening a Pop Up Store.
Beginning as a traveling and temporary store concept in the 1990s, Pop Up retail is thriving and here to stay. Pop Up stores serve many purposes in business and are popular with consumers because they are exclusive, creative, informative, and highly social media driven. Clients seek me out to learn more about Pop Up retail and at Gustie we handle all details from concept to execution. If you are considering opening a Pop Up store, here are some key points:
Have a Strategy
The strategy hurdle is a crucial step. Create your strategy and make sure everyone is clear on the details, then delegate and follow-up, often.
Collect a Team
To coordinate all the details, it’s essential to put an expert team together. The important thing is to work with people that understand your goals and support your effort.
Keep Design Simple and Upcycle
In terms of design, keep things simple. You need a few display and seating pieces that make a bold statement and compliment the space so that it loses any generic look and feel. Upcycling (converting a useless product into a new product of better quality) should be part of your plan. Mirrors are a terrific way to upcycle. LED uplighting to define and accentuate your displays and your product(s) warmly and invitingly works nicely, too. Opt for spaces with UPVC Shopfronts for a modern and durable touch, ensuring your design is both practical and visually appealing.
Show You Care
If you plan to serve refreshments, continue the environmentally friendly approach and use glass pitchers with glasses and dishware or at least compostable cups and plates. It does cost a little more, but your customers will notice and appreciate your thoughtfulness. Also, consider teaming up with a non-profit to raise awareness, educate your customers and serve a good cause.
Enjoy the Experience
Your Pop Up store should be an enjoyable experience for you and your customers. Hold tight to this belief, work through the challenges and smile. You are living your dream and finally have your very own store!
We are an innovative, disruptive retail design and strategy firm at Gustie Creative. We lead the disruptive retail revolution and are defining the future of retail for B2B and B2C companies. Learn more at www.gustiecreative.com. View this article in Simply the Best Magazine, March/April 2023
Gustie Creative, 3651 FAU Boulevard, Suite 400, Boca Raton, FL, 33431; Office: 888-550-6261
For inquiries, contact Karen Herman, Founder & Retail Design Strategist, Direct: 561-409 5135