Modern discount stores: challenges in space design and retail furniture production

At Ergo Store, we have been manufacturing retail furniture and equipping commercial spaces for nearly 20 years. We closely monitor the ongoing shifts in the retail sector. One of the most fascinating phenomena of recent decades is the metamorphosis of brick-and-mortar discount stores. This format has completely moved away from its traditional austerity and lack of aesthetics, redefining itself as a highly specialized shopping environment – the so-called smart discount.

How does this retail format respond to the challenges of modern brick-and-mortar trade? Read our article to find out.

Three eras of discount evolution

The evolution of the discount format over recent decades is a journey from extreme cost-cutting to thoughtful, modern spatial design. We can divide this transformation into three distinct stages:

1. The Hard Discount Era (1970–1990)

Outlets were characterized by a small sales area (300–600 m²). Interior equipment was kept to an absolute minimum, goods were displayed directly on pallets or in bulk shipping cartons, and the austere, warehouse-like interiors lacked any aesthetic value.

2. The Soft Discount Era (1995–2010)

Store sizes increased to 800–1,200 m². Chains introduced standard shelving systems, a slightly broader product assortment, and basic guidelines for interior finishing and customer navigation.

3. The Smart Discount Era (since 2015)

Modern, spacious stores ranging from 1,200 to even 2,200 m². Pure cost optimization has given way to advanced interior design, modular equipment systems, sustainability, and the seamless integration of brick-and-mortar sales with digital channels (omnichannel).

Designing discount store layouts

Designing the layout of a modern discount store relies on optimizing the customer journey to maximize product exposure while maintaining high throughput. The contemporary “smart discount” moves away from monotonous patterns and implements advanced spatial layouts:

• Grid layouts: Guaranteeing the highest stock density per square meter.
• Loop layouts: Forcing one-way traffic around promotional zones.
• Diagonal layouts: Working effectively near entrance zones.
• Hybrid layouts: Combining a rigid shelving grid deep inside the store with a flexible, free-flow layout in fresh product zones (vegetables, fruits, bakery).

Additionally, the modern layout must accommodate the omnichannel logistics zone. Dedicated pickup points for online orders, equipped with modular refrigerated lockers, are increasingly being designed at the front of the store so that e-grocery fulfillment does not disrupt traditional customer traffic on the sales floor.

Shopfitting and technical challenges

Equipping a discount space poses significant technical challenges. Retail furniture must feature a robust construction capable of withstanding loads of up to a dozen tons per shelving section.

The backbone of the store consists of industrial cantilever metal racking systems and gondolas, based on modular, easily replaceable components: load-bearing uprights with precise perforation, base feet, back panels (smooth, perforated, or wire), as well as adjustable brackets and shelves. Alongside traditional steel, modern discount stores implement modular wire systems for fruit and vegetable displays that facilitate cleaning, alongside bumper systems and barriers to protect furniture from shopping cart impacts.

In recent years, materials previously reserved for fashion boutiques and premium brands have appeared in some discount stores. Although structural steel remains the core of the equipment, in zones such as bakeries, organic products, or wine departments, it is combined with other materials: solid wood (pine, spruce); high-density, moisture-resistant MDF boards; 

HPL laminates and composites.

Can a discount store be an icon of modern design?

Here are two examples of global concepts that perfectly demonstrate that a modern discount store no longer implies warehouse austerity or a lack of aesthetics. On the contrary – this format can impress with its appearance and innovation.

Lidl (Sigtuna, Sweden)

Designed in collaboration with the Link Arkitektur design studio, this exceptional outlet received the highest BREEAM ecological certification at the Excellent level. Instead of traditional steel profiles and concrete, the load-bearing structure of the roof and pillars relies on massive, exposed glulam (glued laminated timber) beams. This gives the sales floor an incredibly warm, natural character and significantly reduces the building’s carbon footprint. The exterior facade is made of 100% recycled brick, and the roof is covered with vegetation (a green roof) that supports water retention and biodiversity.

Aldi (Shanghai, China)

Two pilot Aldi stores opened in Shanghai are a prime example of completely redefining the format for an affluent, tech-savvy, and aesthetically minded Asian clientele.

The interior is dominated by dark, neutral grays combined with natural oak. Suspended ceilings with exposed technical installations are painted matte black, and the lighting relies on directional spotlights that highlight products directly on the shelves.

An integrated food service area has become an important element of the functional layout, where customers can order ready-made meals and consume them at designer tables inside the store.

The transformation of discount stores clearly shows that modern retail spaces should be dynamic, living organisms that flexibly adapt to customer needs.

At Ergo Store, we combine these modern trends with our nearly 20 years of manufacturing experience. We provide comprehensive services – from concept development and advanced visualization to prototyping, production, transport, and final on-site installation. We deliver furniture solutions ready for the challenges of tomorrow.