Are you planning to design or renovate an existing retail store, or open one in your local mall(s)? Before doing so, ask yourself some questions. Let's get started.
What type of products (displays, shelving, workstations) will you require when opening an Inline (storefront) location, a standalone mall jewelry kiosk?
* Inline Storefront - To furnish your retail space, you'll likely require store fixtures like display showcases and shelving. Depending on how extravagant (or large) your budget is, you may be able to fund things like mall kiosk workstations, merchandising displays, interactive kiosk designs, flat screen monitors - the possibilities are endless! Inline stores tend to have more flexibility than kiosks since they are larger in size.
* Mall Kiosk - The space available will determine what's necessary to fit your retail business's needs. Common mall kiosk sizes are 10' x 10' and 10' x 15'; custom sizes can be obtained but will typically cost more money. As far as features go, you'll want the same basic elements found in inline stores: merchandising display units, point of sale displays and store signage are all essential elements that need consideration when creating your design.
*The latest mall kiosk designs feature a walk-through design, allowing customers to virtually enter your store. Boxed-in versions, on the other hand, require customers to stand outside your kiosk in order to shop.
* Cart/RMU - Most carts/RMU's are leased to your business by the mall, though some can be built by kiosk companies if needed. Usually malls have a specific design standard for all carts/RMUs in their complex. When it comes to choosing your actual cart itself, your choices may be more limited as far as design goes; you could get inserts manufactured by kiosk manufacturers which typically feature POS workstations, merchandising displays and store shelving and drawers for your convenience.
* This is a difficult question as it all depends on the features that you desire for your business. On average, 10'x 10' kiosks (design, fabrication, delivery and installation) cost between $10k to 25-30k; interactive designs tend to be pricier. By shopping around for the best prices, you could potentially save a considerable amount of money. My advice is to make sure that you know who you're dealing with by researching the company to confirm they are reliable and can answer all your questions promptly. Many kiosk manufacturers offer tours of their workshop as a great opportunity to get to know the company and observe operations firsthand. I highly recommend taking advantage of this option, if feasible; after all, you're investing a considerable amount of money in even one kiosk!
In order to keep this article concise and avoid oversimplifying the process, I've listed some commonly asked questions you may have:
Can Mall regulations influence my design?
* Absolutely, make sure to consult with the mall management prior to building. Most malls have specific guidelines that must be met, making this an essential step when designing or redesigning your kiosk.
How long will it take to build and install my design?
* Timeframes vary between kiosk companies; generally speaking, standard designs take 20 days and custom ones 25 days to complete production. Please bear in mind that timing may differ between companies.
What if you need to make changes after the build begins?
* In most cases, changes are allowed; however, be mindful of additional fees that could apply. It's best to have your design finalized prior to beginning construction.
