Five Ways Miller Zell Solves Retail Fixture Challenges

Underperforming retail fixtures cause all sorts of problems in stores, from cluttered and inefficient layouts to inconsistent branding to durability and maintenance issues.

Over decades of experience — and expertise — Miller Zell has encountered countless fixture challenges and knows how to design solutions that deliver on function, future-proof versatility and value.

From shopper appeal to associate support, we understand how fixtures need to perform at all levels.

So here are five solutions we’ve delivered clients.

Customizing designs mean bigger brand impact

Any number of in-store elements must work together seamlessly to deliver an equally seamless experience, from merchandising fixtures and shelving to graphics, promo displays and integrated digital components.

Over time, retailers can end up with a disparate collection of fixtures and signage systems that result in a fragmented network. But when it comes to a successful solution, there is no One-Size-Fits-All approach.

“...there is no One-Size-Fits-All approach.”

Our process often begins with our Design Development team assessing store conditions, understanding the unique challenges and reviewing any client-supplied drawing sets. With an eye on optimal function, shopability and versatility, we value engineer designs and develop prototypes that are tailored to support the brand’s desired experience.

Orchestrating end-to-end scale and execution

Take, for instance, this scenario: A retailer requests a custom fixture that can display multiple brands of light bulbs and lighting accessories and do so consistently across 1,700 stores. A short timeline and a tight budget compound the challenge. 

A not uncommon situation for us, we are uniquely positioned to activate our integrated capabilities, all under one roof: design development and engineering, graphics production and print management, project management and logistics, kit packing and shipping. Working seamlessly, we ensure quality execution from concept to completion.

Being transparent every step of the way

Scaled rollouts can stress out retailers for obvious reasons. They’re complex programs that need to accomplish numerous goals for the client in terms of improved function, efficiency, design and customer experience. 

In addition to any fixture program or interior signage system we design, we also activate client engagement measures that emphasize communication, collaboration and confidence in our process. From working sessions and prototype reviews to client-accessible project status portals, we deliver peace of mind as well as smart solutions.

Delivering on the details

As rapid change is the norm in retail, we’re built to respond and make every minute count. We house internal resources and expertise in manufacturing, sourcing, logistics, design engineering, project management, warehousing and distribution to streamline processes and maximize efficiencies, leaving no detail unaddressed. 

Future-proofing design that stays flexible

We understand that fixture systems represent a sizable investment for retailers. With that in mind, we specialize in creating solutions that are adaptable by design.

Informing our design is an understanding of the customer’s shopping experience and how to support and enhance it, whether by adding movable demo stations, seasonal displays areas or shelf-level digital players that can engage and encourage their purchase decision.

By thoughtfully and creatively extending the shelf life of a fixture solution (pun intended), we help retailers better respond to marketplace change and realize a faster ROI.