Renovating your retail space is an investment in the future of your business — but it doesn’t have to be an investment you can’t afford right now. With some responsible planning, shrewd execution, and transparent communication, you can enhance your store while still serving your customers. At Luxx Construction, we’ve assisted many such businesses in revitalizing the aesthetic of their space without having to kick their valued customers out through the door. Here’s how you can do it yourself.
1. Plan the Remodel in Phases
One valuable approach to remodeling without shutting down is to divide the project into more miniature stages. This means that you can refurbish parts of the store while continuing to trade. For example:
- Only concentrate on one area, or even a part of it, at a time.
- When possible, arrange the work during off-hours or slow periods.
- Install temporary walls or partitions between any construction zones and all other areas.
2. Communicate With Your Customers
Communicating with customers through the remodel process creates trust and patience. Be explicit in-store and online with:
- Promote that you’re open despite construction.
- Emphasize any short-term changes to layout or hours.
- Assure them it will add value to what they’re used to.
Bonus tip: Make your renovation into a marketing opportunity, advertise a “new look coming soon” event or business upgrade, or give a few small, nature-of-construction-related discounts in the meantime.
3. Prioritize Safety and Cleanliness
Your safety – and that of the customers – should be your top priority. Make sure your remodel site is specific. Keep the area clean and free of supplies or mess every day. Marked to keep customers out of dangerous zones and ventilated to keep dust and odors from seeping into the shopping experience. With a contractor such as Luxx Construction, you’ll have OSHA-compliant job sites and minimal interruption.
4. Work with an Experienced Contractor
A seasoned commercial contractor knows how to accommodate your business hours, reduce downtime, and finish bright and early. Here at Luxx Construction, we are:
- Coordinating off-hour work schedules.
- Securing fast permits and approvals.
- Offering schedules that work with fragmented retail schedules.
5. Offer Temporary Shopping Alternatives
When major construction impacts portions of your store:
- Create a “pop-up” or temporary layout within your space.
- Relocate some products to an online store while a remodel takes place.
- Provide curbside service or limited in-store shopping.
Keeping your business in operation does wonders for holding on to customer loyalty during such a transition.
6. Involve Your Staff in the Process
One key is to get employees involved in guiding customers through the remodel. Train your team to:
- Respond to questions about the remodel and what changes could be expected.
- We walk customers to new layouts or new locations of a product.
- Stay cheerful and serve customers first through the disruption.
Final Thoughts
A retail remodel does not necessarily have to translate into lost business. With the right approach and a good contractor, you can improve your space while ensuring the customer experience is uninterrupted. At Luxx Construction, we offer businesses and companies the opportunity to expand and grow through innovative, efficient, and brand-enhancing remodels.
Considering updating your retail space? Call Luxx Construction today for your free consultation.
