News & Articles
News & Articles
How to Create Safe Customer Flow in High-Traffic Retail Areas
Ready to master How to Create Safe Customer Flow in High-Traffic Retail Areas? Boost sales with smart layouts, clear signage, stress-free paths.
The Real Cost Of Garden Centre Theft | What Shops Are Doing Next
The Real Cost Of Garden Centre Theft What Shops Are Doing Next: the facts, the losses, and the bold measures reshaping security before peak season
Retail Loss Prevention Equipment UK That Cuts Shrinkage
Stop profit leaks fast with Retail Loss Prevention Equipment UK That Cuts Shrink Now — expert picks to boost margins and protect every aisle
How the Right Shop Fittings Help Small Retailers Thrive in 2026
Discover how wall shelving, gondola units, and digital screens help UK retailers and garden centres create winning in-store experiences in 2026. Expert insights on shop fittings that build customer loyalty.
Commercial Shop Shelving Buying Guide 2026: Everything You Need to Know
Complete guide to choosing, installing, and maintaining commercial shop shelving in 2025. Covers gondola systems, wall shelving, UK regulations, and expert buying advice for retail fitouts.
Transform Your Retail Space: The Ultimate Guide to Retail Shelving
Transform Your Retail Space: The Ultimate Guide to Retail ShelvingIn the competitive world of retail, your store’s layout is a powerful tool for driving sales and shaping the customer experience. While products are the heart of your business, retail shelving is the backbone that holds it all together. It’s not just about storage; it’s about strategic product display, brand identity, and creating an inviting environment that encourages customers to browse and buy.Choosing the right shelving can be the difference between a cluttered, confusing space and a clean, efficient, and visually appealing one. This guide will help you understand the different types of retail shelving, their benefits, and how to choose the perfect system for your store.Types of Retail Shelving: Finding the Perfect FitThe world of retail shelving is vast, with options designed for every store type, product, and aesthetic. Here are some of the most common types you’ll encounter: Gondola Shelving:The workhorse of retail. These freestanding, double-sided units are perfect for creating aisles and maximizing floor space in supermarkets, pharmacies, and convenience stores. They are highly versatile, with adjustable shelves and accessories like hooks and baskets, making them a staple for high-capacity, heavy-duty display. Wall Shelving:Ideal for making the most of vertical space, wall shelving systems are fixed to the perimeter of your store. They are excellent for freeing up floor space and creating a clean, streamlined look. From clothing retailers to bookshops, wall shelving keeps products at eye level and can be customized with various materials like wood, metal, or glass to match your brand’s aesthetic. Slatwall and Gridwall Systems:These highly flexible wall-mounted or freestanding systems are a favourite for their adaptability. They feature grooves (slatwall) or wire mesh (gridwall) that allow for quick and easy attachment of shelves, hooks, and rails. This modular design is perfect for displaying a wide variety of items, from small accessories to hanging merchandise, and is particularly popular for pop-up shops due to its portability and ease of assembly. Display Tables and Plinths:For a more curated, boutique feel, display tables and plinths are an excellent choice. They are perfect for showcasing featured products, seasonal items, or creating a focal point in a specific area of the store. They encourage hands-on interaction and can be used to break up long aisles and guide customer flow. Why the Right Shelving Matters: More Than Just StorageThe benefits of a well-chosen shelving system go far beyond simple product storage. Effective retail shelving: Boosts Sales and Product Visibility:Strategic placement of shelving and products can significantly impact customer behaviour. Placing popular items at the back of the store encourages customers to walk through other sections, while eye-level displays are perfect for high-margin or impulse-buy items. Optimizes Space:In retail, every square foot counts. Shelving systems, especially vertical ones, allow you to display a wider range of products without cluttering the floor, leading to a more pleasant shopping experience and a higher sales-per-square-foot ratio. Enhances Brand Identity:Your shelving is an extension of your brand. A minimalist tech store might opt for sleek metal and glass, while a rustic artisan shop could choose warm wooden shelves. The right materials and design create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere that aligns with your brand’s story. Improves Merchandising Efficiency:Flexible shelving systems allow you to easily adapt to seasonal changes and new product arrivals. The ability to quickly rearrange displays and incorporate new fixtures saves time and keeps your store looking fresh and exciting. Choosing Your Shelving: Key ConsiderationsWhen selecting retail shelving, consider the following: Product Type and Weight:Ensure the shelving can handle the weight of your products. Heavy items like electronics or food tins require reinforced metal shelving, while lightweight products like cosmetics or clothing can be displayed on more delicate fixtures. Durability and Maintenance:Choose materials that can withstand daily wear and tear. High-quality steel and durable laminates are easy to clean and maintain, ensuring your store always looks its best. Safety and Regulations:In the UK, shelving must comply with various health and safety regulations, including the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. This means ensuring units are correctly installed, not overloaded, and inspected regularly to prevent accidents. Investing in the right retail shelving is one of the smartest decisions you can make for your business. It’s an investment in efficiency, aesthetics, and ultimately, your bottom line.
What is ‘Martyn’s Law’, and what does it mean for you?
Martyn’s Law: What You Need to Know About the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025In the wake of recent tragic events, the United Kingdom has taken a significant step to enhance public safety with the passage of the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, widely known asMartyn’s Law. This landmark legislation, championed by Figen Murray, mother of Manchester Arena attack victim Martyn Hett, is a crucial shift from voluntary best practices to a legally mandated duty for public places to improve their protective security and preparedness against terrorism.This blog will break down what Martyn’s Law means for businesses, venues, and event organizers across the UK.Who Does Martyn’s Law Affect?Martyn’s Law applies to a broad range of publicly accessible locations and events, adopting a tiered approach based on capacity. This ensures the requirements are proportional to the risk. Standard Duty Premises:This tier covers venues with a capacity of 200 to 799 individuals. This includes places like smaller theatres, nightclubs, libraries, and places of worship. The requirements here are focused on simple, low-cost activities to improve preparedness. Enhanced Duty Premises and Qualifying Events:This applies to larger venues and events with a capacity of 800 or more individuals, such as stadiums, arenas, concert halls, and festivals. These venues face more significant responsibilities, including conducting detailed risk assessments and implementing a wider range of protective measures. The law requires a “responsible person” to be designated to ensure compliance. This can be an individual or a company with control over the premises or event.Key Requirements and How to ComplyCompliance with Martyn’s Law isn’t just about a checklist; it’s about embedding a culture of security and preparedness. The key requirements are centred on three core areas: Risk Assessments and Security Planning:For Enhanced Duty premises, a detailed terrorism risk assessment is mandatory. This assessment should identify vulnerabilities and inform a robust security plan. The law also requires a clear, documentedPublic Protection Procedure. This plan must outline specific actions for staff to take during a terrorist attack, including procedures for: Evacuation:Guiding people to safety. Invacuation:Moving people to a secure area within the building. Lockdown:Securing the premises to prevent entry. Communication:Providing clear, timely information to staff and the public. Staff Training: The legislation places a strong emphasis on well-prepared staff. Training should cover how to identify and report suspicious behaviour, implement emergency procedures, and administer life-saving first aid. Free resources like the ACT (Action Counters Terrorism) Awareness e-Learning and SCaN (See, Check and Notify) for all e-learn are available to help. Documentation and Regulation:All organizations in scope must be able to demonstrate their compliance to the new regulator, the Security Industry Authority (SIA). This involves keeping detailed records of security plans, risk assessments, and training activities. For Enhanced Duty premises, a designated senior individual (DSI) must be appointed to oversee compliance. What You Should Do NowMartyn’s Law received Royal Assent on April 3, 2025. The government has announced an implementation period of at least 24 months before the Act comes into force, but proactive preparation is crucial. Assess your premises:Determine which tier your venue or event falls into. Review existing plans:Does your current emergency plan adequately address a terrorist attack? If not, it’s time for an update. Train your team:Begin utilizing free online resources to train your staff on counter-terrorism best practices. Engage with resources:Organizations like ProtectUK and the government’s official guidance are invaluable for understanding your obligations. Martyn’s Law represents a fundamental shift in how the UK approaches public safety. By prioritizing a proactive approach to security and preparedness, businesses can not only meet their legal obligations but also contribute to a safer environment for everyone.
Care Information for Oak Timber Bollards
Information for Oak Timber BollardsOak bollards are commonly used for various purposes, such as traffic control, pedestrian safety, and decorative landscaping. Proper operation and maintenance (O&M) of oak bollards can help ensure their longevity and functionality. Here is some information on O&M of oak bollards:Cleaning: Regular cleaning is essential to maintain the appearance and condition of oak bollards. Use a soft cloth or sponge and mild detergent mixed with water to clean the surface of the bollards. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that can damage the wood.Protective Coatings: Oak bollards can benefit from protective coatings to enhance their durability and resistance to environmental elements. Apply a suitable wood preservative or sealant to protect the wood from moisture, UV rays, and insect infestation. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific product you choose. Regular Maintenance: Maintain the integrity of the oak bollards by sanding and refinishing them periodically. Sanding helps smooth the surface and remove any splinters. Apply a fresh coat of protective finish, such as varnish or exterior-grade paint, to maintain the appearance and protect the wood. Weed Control: If oak bollards are installed in areas with vegetation, ensure that weeds or grass do not grow too close to the bollards. Overgrown vegetation can retain moisture and promote decay. Regularly trim the surrounding vegetation and remove any weeds or grass around the bollardsSnow and Ice Removal: During winter months, it's important to clear snow and ice from around the bollards to prevent damage caused by freeze-thaw cycles. Avoid using de-icing chemicals that may be harmful to the wood. Instead, use gentle methods such as shovelling or brushing off snow.
Mild Steel Galvanised Bollards Powder Coated in Yellow
Mild Steel Galvanised BollardsBollards add protection to your landscape or site and are aesthetically appealing to the eye.What is a bollard?For these out there asking: ‘What is a bollard?’ – road bollards are brief and sturdy, vertical posts used to manage avenue traffic, forestall ram-raiding assaults and adjust entrances and exist to unique areas. You’ve in all likelihood viewed many special patterns of bollards in public areas, regularly lining the avenue or blockading car get right of entry to in an in any other case open space. Why Powder Coated Yellow?Bollards are designed to protect against accidental crashes. Still, you will want to make sure your bollards are noticeable enough to grab the attention of distracted drivers. Search for bollards in eye-catching colours, such as bold yellow, to add visual security for your site or building. Check out our range of bollards here < Timber Bollards - Stainless Steel Bollards - Steel Bollards - Telescopic Bollards >
How To Install Trolley Shelters
How to install your shopping trolley shelter from Store Fittings Direct. Our Dalby Shopping trolley shelter itself is an elegant shape, made from aluminium with lots of gentle curves and glazed with 6mm clear polycarbonate. In order to fit the space available it was designed for entry from one side. The back consists of 3mm aluminium sheets powder coated in two shades of grey, curved from top to bottom, preventing any view into the shelter from the adjacent car park, whilst a gap at the top enables air circulation. The roof is clear 6mm solid polycarbonate that was cold-curved during fitting, as is the vertical panel on the side opposite to the entrance. The glazing was fitted using our P226 screw-down glazing bar and in line with current legislation 50% of the shelter sides are open to the elements. GROUND WORKS All concrete pads should be laid and given sufficient time to harden before shelters are installed. Tarmac should be laid new, or made good to a maximum depth of 50mm over the concrete pads before shelters are installed. Tarmac should be clearly marked to identify the position of the external perimeter of each concrete pad. Approximately 3-4 shelters can be erected per day, therefore sufficient pads should be laid prior to shelter installation to allow for consecutive working days for the total quantity of shelters to be fitted. ALLOCATING & PREPARING THE WORK / STORAGE AREA STORAGE PRIOR TO ASSEMBLY A suitable secure storage area (compound) will be required prior to delivery to site. This needs to be large enough to accommodate the total number of shelters required. REVIEW GROUND WORKS Check that ground works have been carried out and made good as per previous ground work section. LOCATION OF ASSEMBLY Main assembly of the shelters must be undertaken within an area of 6 car parking spaces around the parking bay that is to be the final fixed position of the shelter as described in the “Working Area” paragraph below to avoid unnecessary manual handling issues. WORKING AREA A clear working area must be provided incorporating a total of 6 car parking spaces, 1 space either side of the parking space the shelter is to finally fixed to and three spaces directly behind. This area should be made safe for working by erecting Herras fencing around the perimeter as per AWOW V5. ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS CHECK PARTS Check all parts have been supplied correctly. ASSEMBLE BRACKETS Assemble end and middle brackets as shown above. 3. Use M8 x 16 Hex Head Bolts, M8 Nyloc Nuts and M8 Washers. • Quantity required for each shelter is: o 4 x Middle Bracket o 8 x End Bracket 3. ASSEMBLE SHELTER SKELETON • Assemble lower steel railings. Do not fix railings to concrete until step 5. Slide assembled brackets and loose bolts into loop channel in the following quantities. Front loop requires 4 end brackets for horizontal beams (see detail A), 2 M8 x 16 bolts for side stiffening bars and 1 M8 x 40 bolt in the middle for the trolley park sign and top stiffening bar. Middle loop requires 4 middle brackets for horizontal beams (see detail C), 3 M8 x 16 bolts for internal support beams. Back loop requires 4 end brackets for horizontal beams (see detail A), 3 M8 x 16 bolts for internal support beams. Loosely assemble loops to railings using M8 x 25 bolts, M8 washers and M8 nylocnuts (see detail B above). Locate and fix side and top internal support beams to tie loops together using the loose M8 x 16 bolts, M8 washers and M8 nylocnuts.Secure middle internal support beam at top centre of loops. Fix the 2 other internal support beams either side at equal height. Locate and tighten horizontal beams on to brackets on one side at a height of 755mm from the bottom of the loops to the centre of the beam / brackets.(see detail A/C above). 4. FIX FIRST CLEAR GLAZING PANELS Bend 2 glazing panels into loop channels on opposite side of the trolley park to the 755mm high fixed horizontal beam. Slide glazing around loop in channels and locate onto 775mm high horizontal beams. Locate 2 horizontal beams above glazed panels and secure to brackets as per stage FITTING THE GLAZING Repeat stage 2 for all glazing panels, finishing with locating final 2 horizontal beams at 755mm high to ensure the trolley park is even. Tighten all M8 fixings except M8 x 40 front top centre fixing. Rivet 4x side support bars through side glazing panels to internal support beams as shown, 12 places in total. Again ensure trolley park bars are even on both sides. SIGNAGE 6. FIX SIGN Slide sign into top centre stiffening bar and using the M8 x 40 bolt mentioned in stages 2 and secure with M8 washer and nyloc nut. FINAL FIXINGS 7.FIX TO CONCRETE Move and locate trolley parks to centre of concrete pads. Concrete pads should have been pre-installed by others to suit the attached layout. Chemfixtrolley park in position with two chemfixfixings per leg. (See detail C above). If hitch rail is included in installation, locate hitch rail in appropriate position and fix using 200mm long chemfixstud (see detail D above). Fix hitch rail to horizontal beams as shown using U-brackets and offset spacers as required (shown above). Clean all debris from drilling from work area. Anti Roll Back Strip ( If Required ) Positioning One anti–roll back strip should be fitted at the front of the shelter with the leading edge level with the outside of the front hoop and an equal gap left to the left and right side. FASTENER LIST Fixing Kit 69 No M8 x 16 Hex Head Z/P 16 No M8 x 25 Hex Head Z/P 1 No M8 x 40 Hex Head Z/P 85 No M8 Nyloc Nuts Z/P 85 No M8 Large Washer 12 No FIX-90036 4 X 16 LARGE HEAD POP RIVET Chem fix Kit: 1 -Tube Chemfix380ML (C/W 2 Nozzles) 16 -M10 X 200 Resin Anchor Stud / Nut / Washer 16 -1.1/2 X 3/8 Mudguard Washer ZP Anti Roll Back Strip 4 -M6 x 60mm coach screw 4 -M6 rawlplugs •4 -M6 washers TOOL REQUIREMENTS 13mm A/F spanner. Soft mallet. Socket Set Impact Driver 110v SDS Drill & 12mm drill bits Large Chemical Resin Gun Rivet Gun 110v Generator
The Importance of Trolley Shelter Anti Roll Back Strip
The Importance of Trolley Shelter Anti Roll Back Strip Our Trolley Anti Roll Back Strip is designed to complement our shopping trolley shelters. Providing that extra security preventing shopping trolley from rolling back out of the shelter onto oncoming or parked cars. Why Anti Roll Back Strip Is A Must Prevents damage to trolley Prevents trolley rolling into parked cars Prevents trolley rolling into moving cars Prevents trolley rolling into person/persons Prevents damage caused to trolleys from the elements Keeps car parks organised and tidy How To Install Positioning One anti–roll back strip should be fitted at the front of the shelter with the leading edge level with the outside of the front hoop and an equal gap left to the left and right side. Usually fixed using 4 x M6 x 60 Coach screw and expansion plug
The Importance of Access Control
The Importance of Access ControlThe purpose of such Access Control systems is to restrict access where necessary so that the number of people entering and exiting can be better monitored.Access control is an updated and effective method of ensuring that access to a business system, certain areas of a premises or physical and virtual resources are restricted, either by an authority or a business.The purpose of such systems is to restrict access where necessary so that the number of people entering and exiting can be better monitored.Access control is an updated and effective method of ensuring that access to a business system, certain areas of a premises or physical and virtual resources are restricted, either by an authority or a business.Additionally, access control is a means to protect people within an organisation from unauthorised entry.It also stops staff and visitors from gaining access to potentially dangerous areas such as warehouses.Furthermore, for businesses looking to track and monitor the flow of people around a building, there are various access control systems that fulfil this objective too.Our family of mechanical gates offers an extremely effective yet economical access security solution.As reliable as it is practical, the mechanical gate is designed to be used in areas to positively indicate the entrance/exit flow and is particularly suited towhere maximum security is not required.The gate is designed to open through 90 degrees and return to the closed position under spring tension. A standard feature of these gates is the ability tobe opened in the reverse direction by firm body pressure to give an emergency exit facility.A simple adjustment negates this facility when used as an exit.Access control systems help restrict entry to areas of a business premises containing hazardous waste, expensive IT equipment and sensitive information. These restrictions help reduce theft, damage and more.Remote accessSome sites aren’t guarded or staffed 24/7. There are occasions when suppliers, contractors and delivery drivers require access outside of business hours.Highest security access controlFull height turnstiles are the ultimate in security and control of foot flow through an entrance/exit point.They provide secure closure of passageways and are well suited for checkpoints where high security and attractive design are equally important.Protect your business with access controlBy investing in an access control system, businesses will benefit from a system which:Helps protect assets such as expensive equipmentCreates a safe working environment for employeesProvide data on staff movement, timekeeping and productivityReduce the potential for breaks ins and theft
