With spending patterns now broadly similar to those seen before the pandemic , there is justified optimism amongst the commercial and retail sectors. However, it can’t be disputed that Covid-19 has changed the landscape forever, and must be taken into account when planning for the future.

For those with existing premises – whether on the high street, in shopping centres or units subletting within a larger facility – care must be taken to ensure they’re not only fit for purpose when it comes to safety, but also designed to draw shoppers and users back and engage them in products and services.

Meanwhile, with the number of new ventures started in the UK increasing by 14 per cent in the last 12 months, start up businesses using the easing of lockdown as an opportunity to expand their business should seek out the services of retail experts to design spaces which ensure their company is on the right track for success.

That might involve remote access and furniture locking systems to offer increased safety and security, moveable walls and sliding or folding doors to create a truly flexible space, or specialist lighting to showcase a room’s best features. But bringing together all the elements of a functional and great-looking building requires an expert eye to ensure each works together in harmony.

Häfele’s team of specification experts work closely with architects, contractors, interior designers and operators in the commercial and retail sector, connecting them to the solutions that will bring their ambitions to life. Whether it’s a refit of an outdated shop scheme or an entirely new development, Häfele’s 360˚ Project Support Team will embed into your vision and recommend the best products and services for your needs, offering comprehensive support in all project phases.

From the legislative and operational requirements to ensure that your project meets building and fire safety standards and regulations, to bespoke logistics such as phased deliveries or door packed consignments to ensure that your project runs smoothly throughout implementation, the 150+ years of experience in Häfele’s projects team means they know exactly the type of support is needed to see a project through from start to finish.

Häfele supply CAD drawings, images and BIM assets where available to your design team to help them bring together each of our different systems – Dialock, Loox, sliding door gear, architectural hardware and more – to one complementary scheme. Once all parties are happy, Häfele then introduce additional, valued services to continue making the process streamlined and cost-effective.

For example, through the Lighting Design Service by Häfele UK, designers and shopfitters can submit their plans to a team of designers who will, in turn, create bespoke lighting layouts on their behalf using the Loox and Nimbus lighting ranges. They’ll work with the client to understand the requirements of a space, creating a design which strikes a perfect balance between furniture lighting and other lighting elements, so they truly complement one another and put lighting at the centre of a space’s aesthetic.

Then, Häfele to Order can be used to create efficiencies on higher volume projects, or in spaces that require made-to-measure components. Häfele to Order allows planners and fit out teams to specify products to the exact size, quantity and finish. These are then cut, assembled, packaged, labelled and delivered to the requirements.

Though projections about the country’s economic future are positive, budgets will be tighter than ever. Working in partnership with a team that offers an extension of great services and solutions will mean that not only is your space futureproofed and designed to look and function brilliantly, but you’ll achieve it while experiencing true added value.