Store of the Future: The Basics of Store Design/Layout

Counter height provides ease of interface, whereas sitting formalizes the buying process. In addition, a store with more than one door at the entrance is more welcoming to the consumer and will attract 30 percent more visitors, said Dyches. He also highlighted the importance of maximizing space and keeping customers in the store long enough to see all the merchandise. When contained in a small space, customers will stay in the store 15-percent longer, according to Dyches.

To broaden the customer base, the store should be designed for the novice. A decompression zone containing a display case should be within 6-8 feet of the store's entrance and perpendicular to the line of sight. Display cases should be vertically positioned at eye level. Dyches also recommends retailers merchandise at a 45-degree angle to entice customers to travel deeper into the store.

The service desk should be located at the center of the store or to the left of the entrance to provide the best control position possible, according to Dyches. Lighting can also be used to the retailer's advantage. Dyches said lighting at the back of the store should be 1.5 times brighter than at the front to offer greater value to the merchandise.