Gridwalls VS Slatwalls

by Ron Maier

So many owners, managers, and designers often find themselves debating over the esthetics, durability, efficiency, and cost of different store fixtures available for retail store display. From materials to shape to purpose, there are so many fixtures to choose from. The most common comparison of store fixtures is the comparison of gridwalls to slatwalls. Both products are designed as wall displays, capable of presenting a variety of products with relatively simple installation. Wall displays are extremely helpful to nearly every type of brick and mortar retailer, whether that is a footwear, clothing, electronics, or music store. Having the ability to vertically present products throughout the store creates floor space and makes everything much more visually accessible to customers. Under the agreement that wall displays are crucial to store design, the next task is deciding between gridwalls and slatwalls. Both products are valuable for different reasons, so it is important to choose the best product for a specific retail store.Gridwalls and slatwalls have relatively similar costs, and though the materials are somewhat different, they share the same idea of versatility. Both products utilize various accessories to accommodate a diverse range of merchandise. There are hooks, shelves, hanger arms and more, each designed to present certain products in the best light. Choosing between the two should not be decided based on a few pennies saved here or there. In the long run, with accessories, the costs will level out. So think about the differences and what will best accommodate a particular sales environment.The aesthetics of a gridwall display system are much more industrial in nature. Because of this, sports or mechanical shops often choose gridwalls, but that is not the only reason. Because gridwalls are made from metal, they are extremely durable, and when it comes to carrying more wait, gridwalls are up for the task. That is why hardware stores or any retailer with heavy-duty merchandise will often choose gridwall panels for displaying their products. Gridwall accessories are very diverse, though they tend to be best for hanging and shelving, and they are also quite mobile, not requiring permanent installation. Each panel can be angle against the other to create a free-standing wall display.Slatwall displays are much more common in stores whose merchandise is lighter and less industrial. Slatwalls come in a variety of colors and finishes to provide a very professional and coordinated appearance, and the accessories are far more specialized for specific merchandise. There is a slatwall accessory for almost anything. Though slatwalls are possibly more aesthetically pleasing, they are more permanent and less load-baring fixtures. You probably will not see a slatwall display set up outside a touring concert venue or supporting the weight of machinery, but they are perfect for office supplies, small garments, music, literature, footwear, etc. The deciding factors for choosing between slatwalls or gridwalls should be those of purpose and aesthetics. It is important to choose the right fixture type based on the merchandise and a visual coordination with the existing sales floor rather than cost. In some circumstances, a retailer might even use a combination of the two to provide the best product presentation for different areas of the store.

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