Key shopfitting skills

There are a broad range of shopfitting skills that good shopfitting companies incorporate into their businesses. All will have a ‘core set’ of skills. In addition, shopfitting companies may specialise in other areas if they have the necessary skills to do so.

Project management

This is very important. It doesn’t matter if your shopfitting company has all the resources in the world – if they can’t manage a project effectively, then a bad shopfitting experience is inevitable. There are three critical aspects to manage; they should deliver to specification, on time and within the budget. You should agree the work you require, the time scale and the cost BEFORE work is commenced.

Design

A good shopfitting company will have a designer and use modern CAD programs to produce drawings and layouts. 3D CAD models can be produced by some shopfitters allowing you to visualise how the shop will look. This can be a fantastic tool to help make decisions before work has started, saving time and money in the long run.

Joinery

All shopfitting companies will have the machinery and tradesman to manufacture bespoke items from wood (and other materials) and to fit them into your shop.

Metal work

The manufacture of bespoke items, usually of more structural importance if manufactured from metal. Specialist stair cases for example.

Electrical and plumbing

Wiring, lighting, wash basins, toliets, kitchen facilities and air conditioning. Some shopfitting companies have their own electricians or plumbers, others will subcontract this work when required.

Signage

It’s very important to have a shop front that draws potential customers in. Shopfitters will be able to produce vibrant signs and logos to help this. A shop’s sign should tell customers who you are and what you do. Be sure the size is large enough to be seen from a good distance – it needs to be readable from at least twenty or thirty meters. View this as a very significant opportunity to reinforce the shops colours and branding.

Security

It’s likely that you’ll require some sort of security, such as roller shutters. If you require CCTV then your shopfitter will be able to recommend appropriately.

Interior and exterior works

Work may be required on the outside of the building. You may need to consider paving for outdoor areas.

Maintenance

Inevitably your shop will require maintenance at some point. General maintenance you may be able to carry out yourself but more extensive work should be done by a professional. Ideally the shopfitting company who did the initial work. You may conduct one off maintenance from time to time, or perhaps consider an ongoing maintenance contract if you have a larger area to maintain.

Shopfittings

Some shopfitters will manufacture various shopfittings themselves. They’ll also have contacts with other companies specialising in shopfittings. As a result it is likely that your shopfitter will be able to get you a better deal rather than going direct. Whether it be shelving, office desks, chiller units, display cabinets or shop counters. See our display shopfittings page for more info.

Sound like an industry you’d like to work in?! Then check out our shopfitting jobs page.