Evans

Havelock was engaged to develop and manufacture the Evans new ‘floating’ concept to be piloted in the Lakeside Centre, Thurrock. Evans new concept equipment was inspired by New York merchandising trends with the aim to develop equipment that appears to “float” off the wall, incorporating clean lines and stylish finishes to provide a soft, yet sophisticated ambience.

The concept was developed by Arcadia’s design consultants with detail design completed by Havelock's experienced retail design and production team. This ensured the equipment was modular and flexible and adhered to the original design concept.

Havelock's project team formed close working relationships with the design consultants, and Arcadia’s branding and project management teams to design, manufacture and install the equipment to schedule. This close working partnership enabled an aggressive schedule to be achieved for the project with product manufacture being completed in six weeks and installation achieved within two weeks.

The Evans store design included a series of innovative features to showcase their products ensure a distinct feel to the Evans shopping experience. Merchandising solutions included, use of illuminated shelving in the shoe area (new concept developed and designed by Havelock in partnership with Whitecroft Lighting), “Floating” perimeter bays with invisible arm/rail attachments, Trapeze mounted feature and window displays, and the use of bright nickel plated finishes on all metal work.

Havelock using their expertise in the retail market ensured a significant focus on improving the ambience in the fitting rooms, by using voile curtains, illuminated fitting room mirrors and stylish seating as research clearly shows a good fitting room experience is essential to achieving sales growth.

These fittings were complemented in store by an update of the Evans branding, including the logo, in-store graphics, and interior finishes. The success of the project has resulted in a further 13 store refurbishment projects being awarded to Havelock. This new concept equipment will be rolled out on future stores.