Retail design: theoretical perspectives

The late twentieth century saw rapid growth in consumption and the expansion of retailing and services.

This was reflected in the number and type of stores and locations, from regional shopping malls and out-of-town superstores to concept and flagship stores.

Retail design became an essential part of its success by creating distinctive brands and formats.

However, the economic recession in the developed world and competition for consumer goods from the developing world has led to a re-assessment of the growth-led conventions of the retail industry.

In addition, the rapid advance of e-commerce and online shopping has created new challenges for physical stores and the communication and distribution of retail brands.

The book will provide students, researchers and practitioners a detailed assessment of retail design, taking a distinctive global approach to place design practice and theory in context.