Updating your store refreshes your brand, but it’s tough to pull off when customers constantly walk through the door. At the same time, you don’t want to halt business and lose sales! Fortunately, you can update your space without frustrating loyal customers. Learn how to plan a store makeover without disrupting business with this guide.
Schedule Renovations During Off-Peak Hours or Days
If you want minimal interruptions, tackle the makeover during the quietest periods of your business. Check your sales data or traffic flow to find the days or hours when activity slows down. Use this window for noisy or disruptive tasks like construction or drilling. For instance, consider scheduling these updates in the late evenings or early mornings. This way, customers are less likely to encounter the renovation crew.
Divide the Space Into Functional Zones
Don’t tackle the entire store makeover at once. Instead, focus on small sections while keeping most of the store available to customers. For example, if part of your flooring needs replacement, create a temporary barrier around the workspace. Furthermore, adding temporary signs to direct customers away from construction zones allows them to shop comfortably.
Choose Flooring With a Fast Installation Process
Flooring can completely transform your store, but slow replacements can be a headache. Luckily, laminate flooring is a good choice for commercial spaces because it installs fast. Beyond saving time, laminate helps your business visually, too—it’s durable enough for busy spaces and comes in various styles. Within hours, you can have a fresh new look that aligns with your store’s aesthetic.
Use Portable and Flexible Fixtures During Renovations
Flexibility makes upgrades smoother. If you have bulky or hard-to-move displays, consider swapping them for modular shelves or mobile racks just for the makeover period. With smaller, portable fixtures, you can quickly move displays throughout renovations. Mobile fixtures also help you test different setups that might work better for the long term.
Rent Off-Site Storage for Inventory and Fixtures
When planning a store makeover, rent off-site storage to avoid disrupting business. The storage units allow you to temporarily remove stock and fixtures. For example, if you’re swapping out clothing racks, move out older inventory to free up space on the sales floor. This temporary solution avoids clutter during high-traffic hours and makes it easier for your renovation team to work efficiently.
Communicate Clearly With Customers and Staff
A little communication goes a long way. Before the renovations, send updates through your newsletter, Instagram posts, and in-store flyers. For instance, update your social media and pin a sign up front if certain aisles won’t be accessible for a few hours. You can also ask employees to guide customers through any temporary setups or unusual layouts. These communication efforts will contribute to a better shopping experience.
