virtual-business Relocating a retail space is tricky. It increases overheads, confuses customers and comes with a ton of logistics. Expanding into a second premises can be equally challenging in different ways. But before you commit to a traditional method of expansion, consider whether a mezzanine floor might be right for you.
As Doity Engineering explains, a mezzanine can help you squeeze the most out of every square foot of space that you have. It can practically double your floor space without the hassle and expense of moving to a new location. The experts at Doity, a specialist mezzanine supplier in the UK, have outlined all the reasons why so many retail spaces are now considering expanding their shops with a mezzanine floor.
- More Space, More Sales:
This is the most obvious advantage. By adding a mezzanine, you instantly expand your usable floor area. This translates to more room for product displays, stock or a new department. We’ve known businesses to use the extra space for an on-site coffee shop, a dedicated fitting room area or even a workshop space for interactive customer experiences.
- Enhanced Customer Experience:
A mezzanine adds a new dimension to your store, literally and figuratively. It breaks up the monotony of a single-level space and creates a sense of intrigue and discovery. Customers love exploring different levels, and a well-designed mezzanine can become a destination in itself. This vertical expansion can foster a more engaging and memorable shopping experience, leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Cost-Effective Expansion:
Compared to the monumental task and expense of relocating to a larger store, installing a mezzanine is a breath of fresh air for your workload and budget. It’s a fraction of the cost and can be completed with minimal disruption to your daily operations. At Doity, our Revlok mezzanines are modular and customisable, helping us to tailor the size and layout to your specific needs and budget.
- Design Versatility:
Mezzanines are not just about adding space; they’re also about adding personality. These versatile platforms can be designed to seamlessly blend into your existing store aesthetic or become a bold statement piece. Choose from a variety of materials, finishes, and railings to create a space that reflects your brand and enhances the overall ambiance. Open railings foster a sense of connection and airiness, while closed walls can create a more private space. A specialist installer will design the layout with your end use in mind and ensure there is inclusive access and building regs are adhered to for complete safety.
Bonus Tip: When designing your mezzanine, consider incorporating natural light and clear sightlines to maintain a sense of openness and connection between the levels. This will ensure that your customers feel comfortable and engaged even on the upper floor.
- Future-Proofing Your Business:
As your business grows, your needs will evolve. A mezzanine provides the flexibility to adapt. Whether you need to expand your product offerings or offer new services, the extra space gives you the room to maneuver and stay ahead of the curve.
Our most recent retail mezzanine installation at The Outsiders Store in London’s Coal Drops Yard allowed the business to expand while keeping their prime location on one of the capital’s most popular shopping areas.
What permission do you need to install a mezzanine floor in a retail space?
If you don’t own your retail unit, it goes without saying that you will need the permission of the property owner to install a mezzanine. Sometimes the owner will consider contributing to the works on the agreement that the mezzanine is left inside the space should you eventually relocate.
Planning permission is rarely required, but can be in some cases. This is where you will need to seek the advice of a mezzanine specialist. At Doity, we offer a free, no-obligation site survey for any business in the UK which will cover this. Should planning permission be required, we’ll guide you through the process.
We understand that you’re bound to have more questions. For more information visit doity.com or call us on 01706646971 to speak with one of our helpful engineers.
