5 Things You Need to Know About Retail Flooring

Designing the interior of a commercial space requires a fine balance between pleasing aesthetics, brand authenticity and practical functionality. It is nothing short of a science: creating a space that is both functional and appealing to your specific target market (and, as we all know, not all target audiences are the same). Retail flooring specifically requires a lot of consideration, as it impacts the overall look and feel of the space, while also having to meet certain practical requirements.

If you are in the process of setting up your commercial shop – whether it is a large supermarket, a cosy coffee shop or a local clothing store – we have put together the top 5 things to keep in mind when considering retail flooring options:

1. Quality Matters
They say first impressions last and this is especially true when it comes to retail environments. Often, you have one chance to win over the heart of a shopper, which is why it is so vital that your interior design creates the right impression. Flooring plays a huge role in setting this tone. If you choose to go the cheap route, it will show soon enough and make your shop seem shabby. This then reflects on the product you sell. The last thing you want is for your shoppers to think that you are supplying them with low-quality goods.

2. Image is Everything
The look and feel created by your flooring should match your brand image for an authentic experience. Carpeted floors, for example, provide a hushed atmosphere, which is perfect for clothing shops. LVTs (luxury vinyl tiles) can handle lots of foot traffic and mimic just about any type of surface from marble to hardwood, making them perfect for high traffic shops. Laminate flooring is scratch-resistant while giving you an authentic wood feel, and even artificial grass can be put to great use in an outdoor or sports shop.

3. Safety is Vital
Your store should receive a significant number of shoppers on a daily basis and, to a certain extent, you are responsible for their safety. Choose flooring that is suitable for your retail environment. Avoid cheap installation options that might lead to curled edges, as this is a trip hazard for shoppers. If you choose tiles, make sure these are not too smooth causing shoppers to slip and fall.

4. Practicality is the Word of the Day
Retail flooring should be practical. Remember, you cannot always control the people who enter your space – dirty feet, messy kids and other accidents can and will happen. Look for floor coverings that are scratch- and stain-resistant, and easy to clean. Examples include commercial vinyl flooring, laminate planks and tiles.

5. Durability is Key
Spend the necessary money on good quality retail flooring that is made to withstand significant wear and tear. As mentioned above, regular foot traffic can cause wear and tear that could create a bad image for your shop. Instead of wasting money on revamping your floors regularly, choose durable options that are scratch-, impact- and stain-resistant.

For more information, contact the experts on retail flooring: Commercial Division, a division of Top Carpets and Floors.