Trends Intel

This month’s Merchandising Masterclass focuses on creating an inviting space. Here, a deeper dive into merchandising trends.

Staying attuned to merchandising trends can position your business as adaptable and innovative in the competitive marketplace. These are some of the top forecasted 2024 merchandising trends.

TREND: Textures, Patterns, and Prints

Textures and patterns are proven to add visual interest and can align your brand’s atmosphere—marble for sleekness, weathered wood for ruggedness, and plush fabrics for coziness. Patterns can be used to set the mood: florals for sweetness, stripes for classic vibes, and bold prints for a daring impression. Textures and patterns can be added affordably or without large commitment through material on furniture, stick-on wallpapers, barnboard, tiles, or wall treatments.

TREND: Layers

Transform displays from one-dimensional to dynamic by adding different horizontal and vertical layers and heights. This is especially effective for window displays. Incorporating a thoughtful mix of coordinated window clings, hanging signs, and freestanding objects creates a dramatic impact. Approach this trend by creating depth through varying shapes, sizes, and heights. Try hanging a piece of large poster paper or lightweight material slightly above and behind a banner or poster. Use risers and decorative fixtures to elevate products and create depth and visual interest.

TREND: Organic + Sustainable

This trend is about infusing softer, organic shapes and materials into your displays. Embrace curves, swoops, waves, and circular elements inspired by nature. This trend strategically involves considering lightweight, cost-effective materials for organic shapes. Go for materials that can be bent or stacked. Cardboard or foam board is an inexpensive material to achieve unique shapes.

TREND: Flexible + Structural

Shelving, seating, walls, and product displays can be used as versatile assets to manipulate physical space. Displays that are “flexible” to serve multiple purposes and adapt to different configurations enhance the store’s aesthetic and create multifunctional spaces. Consider longevity, with temporary structures featuring lightweight elements and long-term options as sturdier investments.

TREND: Larger Than Life

Go for maximum impact with giant elements to ensure your display is visible from a distance, captivating shoppers well before they approach. Think of billboards, off-site ads (like those at bus stops), and window clings. Choose graphics wisely—something that is both on brand for your business and fun will encourage photos in front of your “colossal” display. This will become valuable word-of-mouth marketing and can generate brand exposure on social media.

TREND: Color + Light

Revitalize your physical space by infusing color and lighting into your displays. This enhances the appeal of your space and how products look on the shelf and on patients’ faces. Create great selfie lighting using LED bars, light rope, or bulbs to create adaptable displays that achieve stunning light effects. Use light-up signage or backlit posters and creative spotlights. These are all low-cost ways of transforming a simple display into a captivating experience.