Store Fixture Materials

Retail store fixtures come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, so narrowing the search for the right store display fixtures for your retail store might seem daunting. A great way to narrow this search is by first considering the different store fixture materials. When you decide on a material that works well with your design, products, and budget, you can move on from there with a more focused approach. This will also keep your store coordinated with one type of material, rather than cluttering your sales floor with random fixtures of completely different materials. Wood fixtures next to plastic ones, and pressed wood next to metal displays are not usually appealing, so try to keep it simple with the right materials.

The main choices of store fixture materials are metal, wood plastic, and conglomerates. Metal fixtures of course come in a large variety of styles and qualities, from custom fixtures to gridwall displays. Years ago, metal fixtures were considered too heavy and over priced, and they were primarily used for large industrial settings. However, the advancement in technology has allowed for the production of lighter products at cheaper prices with many more store fixture styles to choose from. Metal displays are now extremely common for check-out displays, garment racks, shelving systems, and even display counters. Metal usually brings a slick, modern look to a retail environment, while remaining extremely durable and easy to clean.

Wooden store fixtures have been a long time favorite in retail garment and merchandising displays. Perhaps the most appealing quality is the general appearance of wooden fixtures. Depending on the wood and quality of crafting, wood fixtures are often used in boutique and higher end retail displays. As you might imagine, the prices can be higher. Consider the difference in price of metal desk and that of a solid cherry desk. The difference could easily be $500 for the same functionality. At the same time, there is a large variable in wood fixture prices based on their quality and craftsmanship. Solid wood displays are beautiful, but the quality of merchandise and store budget are huge factors in deciding to outfit a store with wood. Wood must also be cleaned and polished frequently to keep it looking nice and new.

Plastic and conglomerate displays are obviously the cheapest store fixture options. They are light-weight and come in an enormous variety. However, this is at the sacrifice of durability and commonly, visual appeal, but they work perfectly for a new store or for someone selling inexpensive products. Plastic and conglomerate (such as pressed wood) displays serve extremely well as temporary displays being light-weight and economic.

By deciding on the right store fixture materials, you have completed half of the search for the right store fixtures. Be consistent with your decision and match your products and customer base to the appropriate fixtures.

Ron Maier is the Vice President of S & L Store Fixtures, a leading online provider of slatwall displays and gridwall panels. For more information, please visit http://www.slstoredisplays.com.