A down economy has its obvious effects on the retail industry which, in turn, trickles through the supply chain. While overall holiday retail sales are down, but not out – thrift retailers are seeing a boom and big-box retailers are seeing lower-priced merchandise move out the door, coupons on the rise and private-label goods as the cash cow.

This “thrift movement” can also be considered the case with retail fixtures and displays. Retail fixture manufacturers are relying on value engineering and creativity to produce much more economical products without the bells and whistles that a client contract may have called for a year or two ago. Now with visual merchandising budgets and inventory being closely scrutinized, retailers may be considering a chrome or powder coated four-way rack in lieu of the cutting edge display incorporating multiple materials. In addition, freight and strategic distribution strategies are being reconsidered to eliminate costs associated with fixture programs.

How have you or your team adapted to the “thrift movement”?

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