Flooring sample boards are the cornerstone of any flooring retailer’s sales and marketing strategy. They make an immediate statement to customers, while also inviting them to take a closer look at your products. And with the right flooring samples, guiding buyers to high-profit lines becomes easier than ever.
What is not so easy is knowing how to maximize the potential of your retail space to take full advantage of all the benefits hardwood flooring samples have to offer. Luckily, there are a few simple tips that you can use to get started. Be sure to take all of the following points into consideration when designing your showroom.
Large flooring samples, small footprint
You would be amazed at the difference sample size makes when it comes to your customer’s perception of quality. Not only do larger flooring samples let you see more detail, they also carry more weight–literally and figuratively! Buyers get a better sense of quality when they are holding something that feels substantial, rather than a thumb-print sized scrap of wood.
At the same time, you want to fit as much product as possible on your floor space. This makes vertical sample boards a good choice, letting you show off more of your samples without sacrificing space.
Consider your flooring sample board layout
Be aware of the pros and cons of different layout options. Choosing a straight floor plan, with your flooring sample boards arranged in neat rows, has the advantage of maximizing floor space. However, if you want to achieve a more high-end look, going with an angular layout can give your samples more room to shine. There are countless layout options to consider, but the best choice will be the one that maximizes your store’s identity.
Don’t forget to consider lighting. The best way to make your hardwood floor samples stand out is to ensure your customers can see every detail of the grain.
Know your audience
Are you selling flooring samples to trendy, young shoppers, or are you targeting a more mature crowd? As with any product, different hardwood flooring samples will appeal to different buyers, and knowing your audience is everything. Younger shoppers will tend to appreciate bright and bold colors, as well as more eclectic options. Families love to have a wide range of different options to consider.
No matter what selection you offer, remember to tie-in your choice with the layout tips mentioned above. If you find your buyers feeling lost, confused, or disinterested, it may be time to reconsider your display.
Adding it all up
In the end, designing the perfect flooring showroom is about knowing your product, knowing your customers, and knowing your store. After a bit of trial and error, you will see for yourself how much of a difference a well-thought-out flooring sample display can make.
Want to learn more about designing your showroom with the best hardwood flooring sample boards? Get in touch and talk to one of our experts who can help you make the most of your displays.