When planning a store's layout, two main types of shelving come into play: gondola shelving and wall shelving. Both are essential for displaying products, but they serve different purposes within the retail space. Understanding the difference is crucial for effective store design. But what is the key distinction between gondola and wall shelving, and how do you use each to your advantage?
The key difference lies in their placement and structure.
Gondola Shelving: This is a freestanding, double-sided Supermarket Display Rack. It is designed to be placed in the middle of a sales floor, with shelving on both sides. The name "gondola" comes from its appearance, resembling a gondola car. Its main purpose is to create aisles, organize products, and guide customer traffic throughout the store. Gondolas are the workhorses of a supermarket's main floor, capable of holding heavy loads on both sides.
Wall Shelving: Also known as wall racks, these are single-sided units that are designed to be placed against a wall. They have a flat back panel, often a pegboard or solid sheet, and are used to maximize display space along the perimeter of the store. Wall shelving is excellent for creating a clean and continuous display around the store's edge.
Both types of shelving are essential for a complete store layout. You would use gondola shelving to create the main flow of traffic and display the majority of your products in the center of the store. You would use wall shelving to utilize the vertical space along the walls, presenting a clean and organized backdrop for your store’s perimeter. Together, they create a comprehensive and functional retail environment.