Commercial equipment: purpose, types and classifications
What is commercial equipment and what role does it play in the success of any store?

Modern commercial equipment is designed to create convenient and functional conditions for both customers and store employees. The choice of commercial equipment determines the efficiency of space utilization, the convenience and speed of customer service, as well as the store's appeal to shoppers.

Choosing the right types of commercial equipment for a store is a crucial step towards successful business management. By considering the specific features and purposes of each type, one can create optimal conditions for the store’s operation, enhance its competitiveness, and increase customer satisfaction.

In this article, we will explore the main types of commercial and technological equipment, their classifications, and features, to help you make the right choice for business growth.
Commercial equipment serves as a tool for performing numerous functions that ensure the efficient operation of retail businesses. It plays a crucial role in organizing sales, enhancing product presentation, and creating convenience for customers. Let’s take a closer look at the key functions, requirements, and features of commercial equipment.

What Is thepurpose of commercial equipment

All types of commercial inventory are designed to create optimal conditions for store operations. They help in the rational use of retail space, allowing for the efficient organization of the area and increasing the store’s capacity. Shelves, racks, and display units enable the compact arrangement of products, ensuring easy access to them. Display cases and counters help to present products attractively and functionally.

Ensuring efficient store operations

One of the key roles of commercial equipment is to improve product presentation. Displays, racks, counters, and other types of exhibition equipment allow products to be showcased effectively, attracting attention and boosting sales. A well-thought-out lighting system, proper arrangement, and the use of quality materials all contribute to creating an appealing and welcoming atmosphere.

Enhancing product presentation

The purpose of commercial equipment is to ensure convenience and comfort for both customers and store employees. Cash registers, scales, trolleys, and baskets should be easy to use and readily accessible. The types and varieties of commercial equipment must meet ergonomic requirements, allowing employees to perform their tasks efficiently and customers to shop quickly and comfortably.

Providing convenience for customers and staff

Safety is one of the primary requirements for commercial equipment. It must be stable, reliable, and safe to use. Racks and shelves should be designed in a way that prevents tipping or damage. It’s also important to consider the safety of the products, especially when dealing with food items or expensive goods.

Implementing safety standards

Commercial equipment must comply with legal requirements and quality standards. This includes not only safety and reliability but also aspects such as the environmental friendliness of materials, energy efficiency of the equipment, and adherence to sanitary regulations. Choosing and installing the right equipment helps avoid issues with regulatory authorities and creates a safe environment for both customers and employees.

Compliance with legal requirements

  • Grocery stores require specialized equipment such as refrigerated display cases, freezers, and shelving units for storing food products. This equipment ensures proper storage and display conditions, which help to extend shelf life and maintain product quality.
  • Clothing and footwear boutiques need hangers, racks, mirrors, and mannequins for the neat arrangement of goods. Display cases and counters are essential for showcasing a wide range of products, creating an attractive shopping environment.
  • Electronics and appliance stores use display cases and stands for showcasing products, as well as cash registers for transactions. Special stands and mounts allow for the effective presentation of all product categories, drawing attention and boosting sales.

Examples of commercial equipment use in various stores

Let’s explore the main types of classifications for commercial equipment:

What are the types of commercial equipment classifications

For display
  • Display cases: Used to showcase products and protect them from dust and damage. Display cases come in wall-mounted, island, and wall-adjacent varieties. For instance, glass display cases are ideal for jewelry stores where it's important to show products from multiple angles.
  • Counters: A classic element of commercial equipment, used to display products at eye level. Counters can be either closed or open.
  • Stands: Suitable for displaying small items like accessories and cosmetics.

For storage
  • Shelving units and racks: The primary equipment for storage and organization. Shelves and racks come in various formats: mobile, cantilever, island, and adjustable shelving.
  • Shelves: These can be installed anywhere in the sales area and are designed to accommodate a wide range of product sizes.
  • Cabinets: Used for storing products that require protection from external factors, such as clothing or electronics.

For sales
  • Cash registers: Essential for processing transactions. Modern cash registers often come equipped with additional features like barcode scanners and terminals for cashless payments.
  • Scales: Used in grocery stores for weighing items. Scales can be mechanical or electronic, with options for label printing.

By purpose:

Wooden
  • Eco-friendly and stylish, wooden equipment is ideal for clothing stores, accessory shops, furniture stores, and other retail environments where aesthetics are important.
  • Wooden tables and shelves create a cozy and warm atmosphere.

Metal
  • Strong and durable, metal equipment is often used in grocery stores and supermarkets.
  • It can support heavy loads and ensures long-term use.

Glass
  • Perfect for display stands.
  • Glass equipment allows products to be seen in the best light, making it especially valuable for jewelry stores and electronics shops.

By manufacturing materials:

Food products
  • Refrigeration equipment, racks, and shelves specifically adapted for maintaining the required storage conditions are used for storing and displaying food items.
  • For instance, refrigerated display cases help preserve the freshness of products.

Clothing
  • Hangers, mannequins, racks, shelves, and mirrors are used for displaying and storing clothing.
  • This equipment helps customers visualize how the clothes will look when worn.

Electronics
  • Display cases and stands for accessories and gadgets are essential.
  • This type of equipment must provide easy access and secure storage.

By product type:

By placement method
  • Wall-mounted: Attached to walls, these units save space.
  • Island: Positioned in the center of the sales area, providing access from all sides.

By mobility
  • Fixed: Stationary equipment that remains in a fixed position.
  • Mobile: Equipment on wheels or with the ability to be easily moved, allowing for changes in the layout of the sales area.

Additional classifications:

There are many types of commercial equipment, each serving specific functions and possessing unique features. Let’s explore the different types of commercial equipment and their purposes:

Types of commercial equipment

Display cases and counters are used to showcase products while protecting them from dust and damage.

  • Open display cases and counters: These are structures without protective elements, allowing customers to easily access products. They are commonly used in grocery stores for displaying fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • Closed display cases and counters: Equipped with glass or plastic panels, these protect products from dust and damage. These counters are ideal for displaying jewelry, electronics, and other valuable items.
  • Corner counters: Designed to make efficient use of corner spaces in stores, these help create a more rational layout of the sales area.

Display cases and counters

Shelving units, racks, and shelves are fundamental examples of retail furniture used for storing and displaying products. They can be wall-mounted, island-style, metal, or wooden.

  • Wall-mounted shelves: These save space and make efficient use of vertical areas. They are suitable for placing items within easy reach of customers.
  • Island shelving units and racks: Positioned in the center of the sales area, these provide access from all sides. They are ideal for large retail spaces and supermarkets.
  • Metal shelves and racks: Known for their strength and durability, these are often used in grocery stores to store heavy items.
  • Wooden shelving units: These create a cozy and pleasant atmosphere, making them suitable for boutiques selling clothing, accessories, and books.

Shelving units, racks, and shelves

Refrigeration equipment is essential for storing and displaying food products. It includes refrigerated display cases, freezers, and refrigerators.

  • Refrigerated display cases: These keep products fresh while also showcasing them. They are commonly used in supermarkets and grocery stores.
  • Freezers: Designed for storing frozen products, freezers come in various sizes and configurations to meet different needs.
  • Refrigerators: Used to store and display chilled beverages and products. They should be equipped with glass doors for easy viewing.

Refrigeration equipment

Cash registers and scales are necessary for processing transactions and weighing purchases. They must be user-friendly and reliable.

  • Cash registers: These ensure quick and accurate transactions. Modern cash registers are equipped with features such as barcode scanning and cashless payment options.
  • Scales: Used in grocery stores for accurate weighing of products. Electronic scales can print labels with weight and pricing information.

Cash registers and scales

Trolleys and baskets simplify the shopping process, making it more convenient. They allow customers to move easily around the supermarket while collecting items.

  • Trolleys: Mobile units used by customers to transport goods. Trolleys are typically equipped with wheels and comfortable handles.
  • Baskets: Suitable for smaller purchases, baskets are usually made of plastic or metal and come with handles for easy carrying.

Trolleys and baskets

Some stores require specialized equipment, such as pharmacy display cases, jewelry stands, and custom furniture for cosmetics shops.

  • Pharmacy display cases: Specifically designed for storing and displaying pharmaceutical products, these cases must ensure safety and easy access to the items.
  • Jewelry stands: Designed to display jewelry, this equipment must be secure against theft and damage while providing a clear view of the products.
  • Cosmetics store equipment: This includes display cases, stands, racks, and shelves that are specially adapted for showcasing cosmetics. Such equipment should be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Specialized equipment

Choosing the right commercial equipment is a crucial aspect of organizing any retail space. The proper equipment not only helps in effectively organizing the space but also enhances product presentation, improves convenience for customers and staff, and ultimately boosts sales. The use of modern technologies and high-quality materials in the production of retail fixtures allows for the creation of attractive and functional solutions that meet high standards of safety and ergonomics.

Greenshelf is a tool that offers optimal planning and utilization of commercial equipment in your store. With its help, you can create efficient and appealing retail spaces that meet all modern requirements.

Conclusion

Tilda Publishing