Mannequins may not seem that important when you first think about what to include in your store but the reality is quite the opposite. In the eyes of a visual merchandiser, a mannequin is a valuable asset within their bag of tricks. Whenever you enter the doors of a retail store chances are you’ve strolled past a mannequin at some point. Mannequins play a vital role in the visual merchandising process.
So, how can mannequins benefit your selling possibilities?
Here would be a good point to mention customer experience. Customer experience is the overall opinion that is formed from experiences people have had in your store. If your store stocks the best items but greets customers with masses of clothing they probably won’t stick around to sift through piles and piles of clothes. In order to create a functional store that stands out amongst the competition, you must first select a quality shop fitting which will play a role in all of your future merchandising needs.
A creative and relevant window display will entice customers to venture inside. If you have a store interior that would leave competitors in awe but haven’t made the most of your window display this means potential customers could be bypassing your store. Placing mannequins in your window and interior can add life to your products especially if you showcase them in a well-lit area.
Mannequin 101:
So, we have listed a few of the benefits that mannequins boast. Here are the different designs you can consider…
Abstract Mannequins
This type of mannequin is highly appreciated due to its minimalist design. Abstract mannequins are displayed in retail stores all over the world. In general, features such as muscles, fingernails, some facial characteristics, are not sculpted. The simplicity of the end result means that they can fit right at home within any store design. They come in male, female and children versions not to mention a variety of poses. Also available are different colours with a glossy or matte finish. Here at Shopfittings Manchester, we stock a wide variety of mannequins that offer this appeal so you can find a mannequin that fits with your décor.
Realistic mannequins
Mannequins that fall under this category have more “human” features such as eyes, lips and muscle definition. This is another form of mannequin that our collections feature.
Detachable mannequins:
This kind of mannequin is ideal if you want to switch your display up conveniently and on a regular basis. The speed of dressing and changing the mannequin can be cut in half with a detachable mannequin as they can be moved freely. We stock models that detach at the torso and again at the legs enabling you to transform your space with ease.
Display busts
This type of mannequin is a popular alternative to a full mannequin. Display busts feature the torso of a normal mannequin and are a good option for those looking to save space or highlight products that relate to this part of the body.
Tailor dummies
It isn’t all about the display of your item but also the creation process. Also known as dress forms these are commonly used for fashion design. These are professional products that come in a variety of forms and sizes.
However, dress forms are anything but limited as they can also be used in retail stores to create fantastic displays and effects. Generally, tailor dummies are made from canvases that are designed to withstand the test of time and of course scissors and needles. Our models come with removable and replaceable covers to ensure the longevity of our items.
Hanging body forms
Is your store lacking in floor space? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Our hanging body forms allow you to display items in places that a regular mannequin may not fit into. They can be hanged on a clothing rail or Slatwall, which will significantly boost the visibility of your products.
Erase thoughts of shapeless clothing piles and instead consider a mannequin. A mannequin can display numerous items all at once, which means you can actively promote more items. This active promotion gives the customer a chance to see what other items compliment the item you're showcasing and could entice them to buy more than one item.
At Shopfittings Manchester, we stock over 50 styles of children, male and female mannequins, with or without heads. We also specialise in display busts and jewellery display busts. Feel assured that you could find what you’re looking for with us. Please remember if you need any help with anything just give us a call and we will do our best to help and look after you.