The first step into physical retail can be challenging, which is why the pop-up route has become so popular. And SpacedandPeople has now created what it claims to be a “revolutionary new end-to-end service” for brands and businesses who want a “fully flexible physical mid-mall retail solution”.

The company, which creates high footfall spaces for retailers, has launched Rock Up and Pop Up, designed to allow “any business – regardless of size or budget – to bring a tailored, in-person retail experience to shopping venues and travel hubs across the UK and Europe”.

The service gives businesses access to over 300 prime, high-footfall locations in shopping venues – including the Bluewater, Westfield and Meadowhall malls – as well as major travel hubs such as London stations Waterloo and King’s Cross, Manchester Piccadilly and Glasgow Central stations.

It acts as a “concessionary solution to address the challenges faced by many retail brands looking to forge a physical retail space”. These include knowing the right location, cost, merchandising, marketing, and staffing.

“For brands in today’s often crowded and busy retail landscape, creating face-to-face moments and delivering tailored in-person experiences to customers will increase awareness and build brand loyalty,” it claims. 

It says that’s backed by recent research that shows 28% of shoppers prefer in-store experiences, with 59% of consumers enjoying a mixture of in-store and online. In addition, 40% of shoppers feel positive towards physical retail stores.

Nancy Cullen, CEO of SpaceandPeople, said: “We know that for many businesses, going from a one-off branded activation to setting up a physical, permanent retail shop can be a big and expensive leap. Retailers need insight and data to drive that decision before taking the plunge – whether it’s their first time, or if they are looking to expand nationally or internationally.

“Rock Up and Pop Up has been created to help brands address the challenge of taking that step.”

Cullen added: “We have already begun running our Rock Up and Pop Up solution with brands such as Kate Spade. Results are showing incredible success, including sales figures such as an 18% store sales increase, 85% of event participants visiting permanent stores as a result of a pop-up, and businesses taking up permanent mall retail space following a concession trial. We are really excited by the potential this opportunity provides for retailers who are pursuing an omnichannel strategy.”