FACILITIES

The nation’s largest supermarket retailer is outfitting more stores with technology designed to eliminate checkout lanes.

Walmart has seen some dramatic cost savings as the result of its commitment to LED lighting.

Chain Store Age’s 2018 SPECS Conference is looking for a few innovative ideas.

Aldi's $5 billion investment in its stores includes a commitment to sustainability.

Physical retail took center stage at Chain Store Age's X/SPECS 2017 executive conference, which put a spotlight on the evolution of brick-and-mortar stores from a design, build and facilities perspective.

The holiday shopping season is upon us. For retailers, these last three months of the year signify a marathon of competitive sales strategies to increase foot traffic and maximize profits.    According to the National Retail Federation, the holiday season can represent as much as 30% of annual sales. To adapt to shifting consumer trends and meet peak season demands, stores plan to increase both hours of operation and staff onsite.  

Energy is the fourth largest in-store operating cost for retailers, with the average 50,000-sq.-ft. retail building spending around $90,000 each year on energy costs. Retail building managers are constantly trying to better regulate their buildings’ energy costs, so understanding where those charges come from can be extremely beneficial.   

The days of traditional brick-and-mortar are in serious transition. As the Internet commoditizes many store-bought products, new ways of thinking are required. Current technology represents retailers' best chance to jump the board. Technology always favors the early adopters.   Here are seven emerging techno-plays that are potential game-changers for physical retailers. Make the move now to be in a position to reap the rewards.   1. Build Smart