Temporary retail establishments have been popping up across our high streets for some time now. Regardless of their size, merchants have been embracing this trend and in turn seeing results. We have no doubt that setting up your very first pop-up establishment will be a major undertaking and in part a bit of a risk. However, in this blog post, we will be highlighting the benefits of running your own pop-up store as well as what you will need to get started.
What exactly are pop up stores?
short, pop-ups allow any kind of business the ability to advertise and sell their products in a space that is independently designed and controlled. Pop-up stores are particularly useful for start-up businesses as they are a low-commitment way to experiment, generate interest, and introduce their brand to new crowds.
Why run a pop-up store?
They encourage spontaneous buying:
Consumers love the appeal of being able to experience something that won’t be around forever. In this way, pop-up stores build a sense of exclusivity that can be difficult to achieve in typical retail settings. Because of the "here today, gone tomorrow" lure the store itself is presented as a limited-edition commodity that customers may not have the chance to get their hands on again.
Social media leverage:
You could have a number of reasons for setting up a pop-up - testing new products or potential store locations, generating customer feedback, driving website visits. If you invest time into going all out on merchandise displays, layout and signage then this will boost the likelihood of your customers taking to social media to promote you. In this light, a pop-up store can play a huge part in your marketing strategy.
What shop fittings you could need:
We haven’t mentioned that when you’re running a pop-up store there is a requirement for you to be able to move quickly and without a trace. At first, this may seem like a chore but with a thorough plan of what shop fittings you will need then everything becomes simpler.
Set-up:
If you are running a pop-up store then it is unlikely that you will have a large team to rely on when it comes to handling any apparatus. Ideally, you will want to be working with shop fittings that can be built and dismantled easily. The following pointers are our suggestions on the shop fittings that will enable you to run an efficient pop-up store.
Gridwall
Gridwall is a robust option that can be easily transported. You can also attach an endless variety of accessories to customise your own unique, changeable display. At Shop Fittings we ensure that we only sell genuine Gridwall ™ products.
Display baskets/bins:
If you are searching for flexibility then look no further than display baskets. These sturdy shelving units can take surprisingly heavy loads.
Mannequins:
Mannequins have been a go-to for pop-up owners as they are easy to set up and incorporate into a variety of designs. When it comes to mannequins, you have to be certain that you have the room to present them in a visually appealing way. If you do not have the room for a full mannequin then there are plenty of alternatives such as display busts available. For more information see our mannequin guide.
Portable clothing rails:
Clothes rails are another straightforward option as all components can be packed away quickly when they are not in use. Here at Shopfittings, we stock a number of collapsible clothing rails. These take a matter of minutes to erect and provide allow you to move them easily as they are equipped with wheels.
Accessories:
Accessory hooks and display arms will transform your Gridwall into a dynamic necessity and will effectively showcase the merchandise you have to offer. Additionally, poles can be fixed to existing clothes rails to give you more space to hang extra items of clothing.
Marketing your pop-up store:
Location and shop fittings are crossed off your checklist and now you will need to generate buzz. Here’s where your marketing efforts will take centre stage. Whilst it is true that your customers may share their experience of your pop-up there is no guarantee of this. You will need to explore both traditional and modern digital marketing avenues to see what works best for you.
Social media:
this is a no-brainer. Not only are social media channels (mostly) free they are a great platform to shout about why people should visit your pop-up store.
Influencers:
By getting in touch with influencers in your industry you will have the opportunity to not only reach your audience but theirs also.
Press releases:
If you write an informative pitch for a press release you stand in good steads of reaching yet another audience. When writing a press release about your pop-up store make sure to list all opening details as well as telling them a bit about your business.
To those currently setting up a store we wish you the best of luck!
Each pop-up space will have different needs; click here to discover our full range of shop fittings. If you need any help with selecting a shop fitting to suit your business’ needs then please do not hesitate to get in touch.