Melbourne’s Best Shopfitters for Retail Stores
Picture this: you walk into a store, and everything from the lighting to the layout feels perfect. You’re drawn in, wanting to explore more and find yourself filling up a shopping basket. That’s the magic touch of a skilled shopfitter. I remember my first time stepping into a newly designed retail store in Melbourne; it was like entering a different world. The transformation was stunning, and it was all thanks to professional shopfitting. Shopfitting is the art and science of designing a retail space that is both functional and attractive. In this blog, I’ll give you the lowdown on retail shopfitting, and I’ll share with you the top ten shopfitters for retail stores in Melbourne —masters of their craft who can turn any space into a shopper’s delight. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned retailer, these experts will help you create a store that not only looks great but also boosts your business.
In This Article
Retail Shopfitting – What is it?
Retail shopfitting is the comprehensive process of designing, constructing, and installing all the necessary elements to transform a bare space into a fully operational and visually appealing retail store. As someone who has seen many stores in Melbourne transformed through expert shopfitting, I can tell you it makes a world of difference.
The Key Components of Retail Shopfitting:
- Layout and Space Planning
- Display Fixtures and Shelving
- Lighting and Signage
- Flooring and Wall Finishes
- Checkout Counters and Storage Areas
Effective shopfitting not only enhances the visual appeal of a store but also improves its operational efficiency, making it easier for staff to manage and for customers to shop.
What should I consider when choosing a retail shopfitter?
Selecting a retail shopfitter is a critical decision that impacts your store’s performance. Having guided several retail projects in Melbourne, I can share key criteria to consider:
- Ensure the shopfitter has substantial experience in retail projects similar to yours and relevant certifications.
- Evaluate their reputation through client feedback and detailed case studies of previous work.
- Opt for shopfitters who demonstrate creativity and innovation, essential for creating a unique shopping experience.
- Effective communication and project management are crucial for staying on track and within budget.
- Assess their ability to provide quality work within your budget constraints.
| Criteria | Importance | My Experience/Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Experience and Credentials | High | Review their portfolio and ensure they have relevant expertise. |
| Client Testimonials | High | Check for positive reviews and successful case studies. |
| Design Innovation | Medium | Look for unique and adaptable design solutions. |
| Project Management Skills | High | Choose someone with strong communication and organisation. |
| Cost and Value | High | Balance quality with affordability; get detailed quotes. |
What do I gain from hiring a retail shopfitter?
As a retailer, investing in a professional shopfitting service can provide numerous benefits that can positively impact your business’s success. From enhancing the customer experience to increasing sales and brand visibility, hiring a retail shopfitter can be a valuable investment. Here are some key advantages you can gain:
- Professional Expertise: Shopfitters have specialised skills and knowledge to optimise your retail space for better functionality and aesthetics.
- Tailor-fit Solutions: They provide tailored designs that align with your brand, meet your specific business needs, and even match your budget!
- Operational Efficiency: A well-designed store layout improves workflow and makes it easier for staff to manage tasks and assist customers.
- Increased Foot Traffic: Professionally designed stores are more appealing, attracting more customers and increasing sales.
- Stress Reduction: Letting professionals handle the design and installation allows you to focus on other critical areas of your business, reducing your stress.
How much should I spend on a retail fit out?
Understanding the cost of a retail fit-out is essential for budgeting your project effectively. Based on my experience in Melbourne, here are some guidelines to help you estimate your expenses:
Average Cost per Square Metre
In Australia, the average cost for a retail fit-out is around AUD 2,800 per square metre. This average can vary depending on your specific needs and circumstances. So, it’s always better to sit down with your chosen shopfitter to talk about the costs in detail!
When it comes to determining the right budget for your retail fit-out, understanding the key factors that influence costs is crucial. From engaging a skilled designer to ensure compliance with building codes and approval processes, to selecting an experienced shopfitter whose expertise can prevent costly mistakes, every decision plays a role.
The materials and design choices you make for fixtures, joinery, and flooring can significantly impact the overall cost. While splurging on premium materials may seem tempting, striking a balance between aesthetics and functionality is key.
And let’s not forget the unique site conditions—the existing state of the space and its location can also influence the budget. A skilled shopfitter will know how to navigate these challenges and optimise the fit-out to meet your specific needs.
Ultimately, investing in a well-executed retail fit-out is an investment in creating a space that not only captivates customers but also sets the stage for a successful and profitable retail venture. By carefully considering these factors and working with professionals, you can make an informed decision that maximises the return on your investment.
Shop Fitters Melbourne
Formed as a sister company of Melbourne Constructions, Shop Fitters Melbourne specialises in shop fitting, office fit outs, and retail projects. With over three decades of experience, they’ve tackled notable projects like Australia 108 and the Queen Victoria Women’s Centre. Their reputation reflects their commitment to treating each project with the utmost care and professionalism. Shop Fitters Melbourne brings experience, skill, and a personal touch to every job, ensuring outstanding results for their clients. They handle everything from design to execution, making the process smooth for business owners. Their expertise in managing both small and large projects makes them a go-to choice for any retail fit-out needs.
Contact: 1300 896 466
Website: https://shopfittersmelbourne.au/
CWB Design Shopfitting
CWB Design Shopfitting, members of the Master Builders Association of Victoria (MBAV) and Victorian Building Authority (VBA), is committed to delivering high-quality, reliable shopfitting services. Their experienced team in Melbourne follows industry best practices to ensure projects are completed on time and on budget. Backed by leading industry bodies, CWB Design Shopfitting ensures meticulous attention to detail and consistently exceeds client expectations. They guide clients through every design and construction stage, turning unique visions into reality. Their in-house design team combines innovation with practical expertise to create tailored fit-outs for cafes, retail stores, hospitality venues, salons, offices, and medical facilities. Clients can trust that the final result will meet all regulations and surpass their expectations.
Contact: 0405 486 225
Website: https://www.cwbdesignshopfitting.com.au/
Retail Outfit
Retail Outfit delivers unique and diverse commercial projects with over a decade of experience in the industry. Their team is committed to quality workmanship, efficiency, and building strong client relationships. They work across multiple retail sectors, including food, health, and retail, with a focus on hospitality. Their expertise in food retail compliance ensures that their projects meet high standards and regulatory approvals. They are well-versed in Australian building standards, successfully completing projects for retail and health practitioners. Communication and client collaboration are key to their success, ensuring the best project outcomes. Contact them to discuss your commercial construction needs or to request a quotation for your next build.
Contact: 0433 655 389
Website: https://retailoutfit.com.au/
Adept Construction
Adept Construction knows that every shop fitout is unique, requiring a customised approach to draw in customers and drive business. Understanding the tight constraints of time and space unique to each project, whether in strip shopping precincts or shopping malls, they meticulously plan their work to ensure precision and excellence. Adept Construction delivers faultless fitouts on time and within budget, never compromising on quality. They cater to both single retail outlets and national chains, ensuring each project conforms to the design and quality standards expected. Since their incorporation in October 2001, Adept Construction has achieved high-quality outcomes across a range of projects, from restaurant and shop fitouts to shopping centre refurbishments and low-rise commercial developments. Their unwavering commitment to excellence and client satisfaction distinguishes them in the construction industry.
Contact: 1300 183 351
Website: https://www.adeptconstruction.com.au/
All in One Design & Build
All In One Design and Build, a registered commercial builder and building design company, offers comprehensive services throughout Victoria and New South Wales. Specialising in the industrial, health, food & beverage, and retail sectors, they provide both design and construction services with a focus on innovation and quality. Committed to supporting local communities, they partner with the Australian Federal Police Association and the National Council of Ambulance Unions. By integrating all aspects of shop fit-outs under one roof, they maintain control and coherence throughout the process. Additionally, their considerate scheduling minimises disruption to neighbouring businesses, enhancing the overall project experience.
Ultimate Chippy
Ultimate Chippy provides expert retail fitouts in Melbourne, designed to help businesses thrive in a competitive market. Their skilled team focuses on creating efficient, customer-friendly layouts that make the most of available floor space. Whether you are starting a new venture, expanding, or updating an existing store, Ultimate Chippy offers comprehensive fit-out services and supplies. They are dedicated to delivering high-quality results that reflect your brand identity and maximise sales potential. Known for their reliability and attention to detail, Ultimate Chippy ensures projects are completed on time and within budget. With competitively priced solutions and a commitment to excellence, they are a trusted choice for retail fitouts in Melbourne. Contact Ultimate Chippy today to enhance your retail space and boost your business success.
Contact: 03 9504 4036
Website: https://www.ultimatechippy.com.au/
Number 1 Shopfitting
Number 1 Shopfitting has over a decade of experience in Melbourne’s shopfitting industry, offering unparalleled expertise for every project. Their long-standing presence in the market ensures they can turn your vision into a dynamic space that captivates customers. In a fiercely competitive environment, Number 1 Shopfitting is a dependable partner, delivering bespoke solutions that fit your project needs and budget. They specialise in shop design, new shop setups, renovations, warehouse and office fit-outs, and hospitality construction throughout Melbourne and its surrounding areas. For more than 10 years, Number 1 Shopfitting has been synonymous with excellence in the industry. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction makes them the preferred choice for shopfitting projects. Trust Number 1 Shopfitting to deliver outstanding results that enhance your business.
Contact: 0432 400 682
Website: https://www.no1shopfitting.com.au/
Universal Tradesman
Universal Tradesman provides expert commercial fitouts and retail shopfitting services in Melbourne, ensuring high levels of quality, value, and certainty for every project. With a dedicated team and years of experience, they understand the importance of trust and bring this mentality to each encounter. Their collaborations with top industry professionals, including architects and designers, help create distinct and memorable spaces. Whether starting a new project or refurbishing an existing space, Universal Tradesman delivers exceptional results, using only the best quality products. They also specialise in impactful retail signage and commercial shopfitting designs that enhance brand visibility and customer experience.
Contact: 1800 411 811
Website: https://universaltradesman.com.au/
Top Shopfitters Melbourne
Top Shopfitters Melbourne has been the leading commercial and retail shopfitting business in Melbourne, VIC, for 30 years. Founded to craft uniquely designed custom shopfitting for offices, boutiques, and stores, they cater to both new ventures and existing business renovations. Their skilled and experienced team delivers precisely what clients envision, turning dream spaces into reality. Committed to orderliness and communication, their project managers and supervisors ensure each project runs smoothly, on time, and within budget. Top Shopfitters Melbourne prides itself on flawless attention to detail and premium service, offering economical shopfitting solutions without downtime. For exceptional commercial fitouts in Melbourne, their friendly, knowledgeable staff is ready to assist.
Contact: 03 859 4759
Website: https://www.topshopfittersmelbourne.com.au/
Symmetry Commercial
With over thirty years of experience in Melbourne’s commercial and retail sectors, Symmetry Commercial provides top-quality shop fittings on time and within budget. Their expert team guides clients through every step of the process, from initial planning to reactive maintenance and regular inspections, ensuring all building regulations and lease agreements are met. Symmetry Commercial offers quality materials and fittings for new retail businesses to ensure their stores look great, operate efficiently, and compete effectively. For businesses expanding or relocating, they provide comprehensive fitting services and advice on lease agreements, ensuring a smooth transition and bond recovery. Symmetry Commercial has solutions for all your shopfitting needs.
Contact: 03 9326 3146
Website: https://www.symmetrycommercial.com.au/
Choose the Right Retail Shopfitters for Your Success
Choosing the right retail shopfitters is essential for creating a store that not only looks great but also works seamlessly for your customers and staff. Professional shopfitting brings together functionality and style, ensuring your business stands out and operates efficiently. I highly recommend considering the expert shopfitters we’ve discussed for your retail needs. Their experience and commitment to quality will help bring your vision to life. Don’t wait—reach out for a consultation or visit their websites for more information. Let the right shopfitters transform your retail space into a thriving business.
