Retail colour psychology.

As a leading UK shop fittings manufacturer, the last couple of years have been “interesting”.

We have all endured Brexit, Covid 19, supply shortages, rising raw material costs and now storms. All of which have had major influences on not just our business, but many others world-wide.

However, maybe good news is around the corner. Most recently it has been reported that bricks and mortar retail sales are beginning to see an uplift. And we have certainly seen more enquiries for shop fitting with orders starting to flow through to manufacturing.

I often write about the effect of refreshing layouts to keep customers engaged, (or lost as the cynics might say!) But I came across a fascinating article about the psychology of colour in retail design – which I wanted to share. Right now, it is more important than ever to attract and retain the returning foot fall.

They say you don’t get a second chance at a first impression. So, knowing that 90% of a first impression is based on colour alone is valuable information.

Colour plays a large part in motivating customers, but what colour is right for your environment? For example, attention-grabbing red will encourage quick decisions and impulse purchases – whereas calming green is peaceful, promoting a more relaxing shopping experience.

Unsurprisingly, there is a gender split too. Using massive generalisation – purple is a male “no-go” colour but loved by women whereas both sexes like blue. Blue, also engenders a feeling of trust and loyalty in a brand – so we chose well!