LED Lighting in Retail Environments

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Retailers depend on high-quality lighting to display their products to the best effect. But it can be expensive to keep shops well lit throughout their long opening hours.

LED systems generate high-quality, fully-controllable, directional lighting that is perfect for retail spaces, while at the same time minimising power consumption.

With growing environmental pressures, retailers need to be seen to be green. Installing LED lighting is a very simple and cost-effective way to reduce your carbon footprint. Energy consumption is reduced considerably as LED lights are at least five times more efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs and over 65% more efficient than fluorescent tubes.

Not only does this help reduce a shop’s environmental impact, the resulting cost savings can improve the profitability of a retail operation. This is becoming more and more important at a time when margins are being squeezed in an increasingly tough and competitive market.

LED lamps are also much longer lasting, with a typical life of more than six years continuous use. This means that they need replacing far less frequently than traditional types of lighting, reducing maintenance requirements and disruption in busy retail spaces. Disposal issues are also reduced as LED lamps do not contain any hazardous gases or chemicals, which can cause problems for other types of lighting.
LED lighting can be used both in new fit-outs and as a straight replacement for existing lighting with very attractive payback periods. In addition, such systems can be used to introduce spectacular effects and add a new level of controllability to mood and colour lighting in design-conscious retail spaces.

A practical example of LEDs being used as a direct replacement for existing lighting can be found at 350 Sainsbury’s stores where LEDs are being used to illuminate freezer cabinets. These have not only considerably improved the quality of lighting for the frozen produce, they are also given a staggering 75% energy saving per freezer. In addition, the LED  lamps are expected to have a useful life of up to 10 years compared to a lifespan of just 6-12 months for fluorescent tubes in the hostile freezer environment.

A more creative example of how LED lighting can generate a real “wow factor” can be found in London’s Covent Garden over the Christmas period. The stunning installation of 578 suspended tubes was put together by United Visual Artists. Each tube contains 80 energy-efficient LEDs which are computer controlled to create amazing effects throughout the market hall.

The good news is that the many benefits of LED lighting can be exploited in the full range of retail operations from small independent boutiques or cornershop right through to a complete chain of supermarkets. To find out more, then contact LED Lighting Supplies to discuss how you can benefit from switching to LEDs.