Shikatani Lacroix

Background

Grand & Toy, Canada’s™ leading office solutions provider, was looking to reposition the company and evolve the thinking to better reflect the needs of its small business customers who are looking for more than the conventional supplies. Rather than match the big box stores in terms of volume or variety, G&T chose instead to focus on developing a broader range of office products and services that catered to this customer segment needs.

Challenge

Shikatani Lacroix Design was retained to assist in Grand & Toy’s™ business transformation as part of a store of the future new design. The challenge: the new design had to fit within the existing space while maximizing the merchandise mix and assortment.

Solutions

SL developed a new store environment that clearly promoted the added value knowledge and service areas, from the designer work area, the small business consultation offices to the new technology demonstration areas; all facets were developed to leverage the sharing of knowledge. SL designed the space using high-end features that are rooted in functionality. Curved linear design, custom millwork were applied to the key service stations that act as customer interaction zones. We installed custom display features with unique colour treatments that provide a clean, uncomplicated backdrop for the products and keep surfaces free from clutter. A signage package was also developed providing optimal level of communication while remaining relatively simple in execution & presentation.

Results

Our intention was to provide key customer touch-points throughout the store to emphasize the idea of Grand & Toy as a unique retail experience and a partner to small businesses. Both clients and customers have described the overall effect as more intimate and very welcoming.