To optimise the chances of converting browsers into purchasers, retailers need to pay close attention to the way they light their stores. In the second of a two-part blog, the Lighting Doctor examines the potential of adjustable LED lighting and pinpoints some common mistakes to avoid.

Having established that investing time and attention in lighting is a no-brainer for retailers, it should come as little surprise to discover that the latest-generation LED lighting systems are best-placed to accommodate a broad range of in-store requirements. The ability to achieve a host of different colours and effects, as well as the obvious cost savings when compared to fluorescents, means that LED is increasingly de rigeur for both new stores and refurbishments.

At the most basic level, LED lighting makes it possible to use smaller form factor fittings for presentational purposes, freeing up space to showcase the products in a way that doesn’t feel cramped or imposing. Subtlety is the name of the game when it comes to retail presentation these days, and there are few more valuable tools in this regard than LED lighting.

Another crucial advantage is the ability of LED technology to support the Colour Rendering Index. CRI is a scale from 0 to 100 per cent, indicating how accurate a ‘given’ light source is at rendering colour when compared to a ‘reference’ light source: the higher the CRI, the better the colour rendering ability. With clothing this can be particularly crucial as a high colour rendition will be required to show the ‘truest’ colours when comparing two articles of clothing. Fortunately, with the latest LED technology it is easily possible to achieve a CRI of at least 90%.

LED lighting can also help retailers to adjust their lighting to changing usage patterns in an efficient and cost-effective way. For example, with adjustable Correlated Colour Temperature LED lighting it is possible to alter the lighting to reflect different operational times such as day, dusk and night, resulting in often impressive savings.

But whilst the contribution that LED lighting can make to the overall environment is in no doubt, ambient lighting per se won’t always be enough. Accent lighting such as directional picture lights, track lighting and wall sconces can help to highlight interesting displays or architectural features, and thereby make a significant contribution to the overall experience of visiting the store.

In short, the potential of LED lighting to enhance – even transform – the retail space is considerable, but the options are such that engaging the services of a specialist such as Greenlite is the only way to be sure of arriving at the best possible solution.