A visually based approach to optimizing retail facility designs and shelve layouts

Purpose This study aims to explore the impact of retail facilities’ (RF) characteristics on customers' spatial cognition and accessibility to products, which inherently affect the facility's performance. Namely, the ratios of the facilities’ dimensions and the shelving configurations are investigated. Design/methodology/approach The visual attributes of RF are used as the method of assessment, relying on the principles of the Space Syntax theories; several design alternatives of RF are generated which represent different characteristics and compared using computer software (Depthmap X). The perceived variance in performance sheds light on the influence of the investigated characteristics. Findings The results have pointed out that dimension ratios can affect the facilities’ performance, especially with the shelving configuration considered. Furthermore, certain shelving layouts are more advantageous compared to other layouts. Other design features have been concluded, shedding light on measures for optimizing performance. Research limitations/implications Due to the endless number of possibilities of retail facility designs, the study has focused on simplified designs only, excluding intricate designs which can possibly offer an additional important perspective on design influences. Practical implications The findings benefit the RF sector by producing customer-centered designs through optimizing layouts and configurations, improving product visibility and enhancing accessibility. This potentially enhances costumers' experiences and promotes satisfaction, thus attracting more consumers and increasing sales. Originality/value Although the Space Syntax principles are long-established, their application to RF is novel. This is also true for the findings which can represent a guide for retail facility designs.