Cigarette Gantries in UK Supermarkets: Embracing Vapes and LED Lighting

In the rapidly changing landscape of retail, supermarkets in the UK are continuously adapting to meet the needs and preferences of their customers. One area that has seen significant transformation is the cigarette gantry. Traditionally, these fixtures were straightforward, housing a variety of tobacco products. However, the shift towards these alternatives and the need for more dynamic advertising has driven changes in their design and functionality.

The Shift Towards Vapes

As awareness of the health risks associated with smoking has increased, the popularity of vaping has increased. This shift has necessitated changes in the design of cigarette gantries to accommodate the growing demand for vape products. Modern gantries now often feature:

• Dedicated sections for vapes: These sections include shelves for e-liquids, devices, and accessories, reflecting the diverse range of products available.
• Enhanced security measures: Given the high value and demand for vape products, modern gantries often incorporate advanced locking mechanisms and surveillance systems.
• Educational displays: Informational panels and digital screens provide customers with details about the benefits of vaping over smoking, usage instructions, and product specifications.

The Role of LED Lighting in Advertising

Advertising within supermarkets has always been a challenge, particularly for products like cigarettes and vapes, which are subject to strict advertising regulations. The advent of LED lighting has revolutionised how these products are marketed within the store environment. Modern cigarette gantries now include:

• Dynamic LED displays: These are used to highlight promotions, new product launches, and brand messages. Unlike traditional lighting, LED displays can be programmed to change and adapt, making them highly effective for capturing customer attention.
• Energy-efficient lighting: LEDs consume significantly less energy compared to traditional bulbs, reducing the operational costs and environmental footprint of supermarkets.
• Customisable lighting solutions: LEDs can be tailored in terms of colour, brightness, and patterns, allowing for a more engaging and visually appealing display that can attract and retain customer interest.

M&E

The cigarette gantries involve sophisticated mechanical and electrical (M&E) services to ensure optimal functionality and compliance with safety standards. This includes:

• Electrical wiring and safety: Proper installation of electrical components is crucial to prevent hazards, especially given the integration of LED lighting and digital displays.
• Ventilation and cooling systems: Vapes and accessories often require specific environmental conditions to maintain product integrity. Effective ventilation systems are necessary to ensure these conditions are met.
• Security systems: Advanced electronic locking mechanisms and CCTV systems are integrated to protect high value vape products from theft.

Conclusion

The transformation of cigarette gantries in UK supermarkets reflects broader trends in consumer behaviour, technological advancements, and regulatory landscapes. As the market continues to shift towards vaping products, and as LED lighting becomes more prevalent in retail environments, supermarkets must adapt their fixtures to meet these changes. KDM Group & KDM (UK) Ltd have the ability & expertise to help supermarkets & shops meet these standards.

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