STRATEGIC PARTNERS
February 26, 2002
ATLANTA - Retail operations will continue to pursue store-design plans, including the use of kiosks, despite the current economic downturn, according to a survey conducted by Display & Design Ideas in conjunction with the National Association of Store Fixture Manufacturers.
More than 1,000 retailers were asked to participate in the magazine's 12th annual Store Fixture survey. The survey covered such topics as store renovation plans, store expansions, and renovation methods.
Retailers in the survey that slightly more stores would be renovated in 2002 compared to 2001 (72 stores per respondent compared to 69 last year) while opening fewer new stores (53 as opposed to 60 in 2001). The average 2002 budget for renovations and new stores are $22 million and $28 million, respectively, both about $2 million less than this year.
In looking at future trends in retail-store displays, 42 percent of survey respondents said one of the most significant changes over the next five years would be increased electronic interactivity. Interactive kiosks offer a two-fold function, respondents said; the kiosks keep customers informed about products, but also keep communication lines open between retailers and fixture suppliers.
The magazine also reported that the upside for kiosk projects looks bright if retailers choose to pursue technological options.
"Currently, technology capability exceeds application in the retail industry, with two percent of respondents indicating full integration of fixtures and electronic technology," the magazine reported.
The survey, however, revealed that only about half of the respondent plan to incorporate electronic technology into their fixtures over the next couple years, as compared to 70 percent in the 2000 survey.
