In-store gondolas are one of the key elements of retail furniture. They are all at once display stands, merchandising tools and levers for optimising space, and play a decisive role in the customer experience and the promotion of products. In this article, we’ll take a look at the essential components of a gondola, what they’re used for, and some practical tips for successful assembly.
The essential components of a shop gondola
To understand how to assemble a shop gondola, it is first essential to identify the different parts that make it up. Each element has a clearly defined role to play in ensuring stability, modularity and product display.
1. The uprights (or posts)
The uprights are the vertical structure that supports the entire rack. They are perforated or grooved to allow shelves and accessories to be positioned at different heights. They determine the total height of the gondola, an essential criterion depending on the surface area of the shop and the type of products to be displayed.
2. Adjustable feet
Located at the base of the uprights, the adjustable feet ensure that the gondola is level, even when the floor is slightly uneven. Correctly adjusted feet guarantee the stability of the furniture, which is crucial for the safety of customers and staff.
3. The back (rear panel)
The back, often made of perforated sheet or solid panel, provides the visual and structural support for the shelving. It is slid between two uprights to solidify the gondola. Hooks or pins can be attached to a perforated back panel. A solid base, on the other hand, enhances the background and reinforces the “wall of products” aspect.
4. Shelves
Shelves are the main product display elements. Available in metal or melamine-coated wood, they are often height-adjustable to accommodate different sizes of product. Their depth can vary depending on the sector: food, DIY, decoration, cosmetics, etc.
5. Accessories
Accessories complete the modularity of the shelving system:
- Spindles for hanging products
- Shelf dividers
- Load bars
- Label holder
- Display frames
These elements enable the gondola to be adapted to specific merchandising needs and consumer behaviour.
How to assemble a shop gondola, step by step
Assembling a gondola is generally straightforward: no complex tools are required and it can be done quickly if you follow a precise sequence.
Step 1: Prepare the components
Before you start, identify and sort each component:
- Amounts
- Adjustable feet
- Funds
- Tablets
- Shelf supports
- Accessories
Good preparation ensures smooth assembly and avoids assembly errors.
Step 2: Assemble the bases
Attach an adjustable foot to each upright. Most systems use a simple screw that is tightened with a spanner. Make sure that the feet are correctly fixed to ensure a stable base.
Step 3: Installing the base
The rear panel is slid between two uprights. It rests on slots provided for this purpose. Once in place, it creates a stable vertical structure to support shelves and accessories.
Step 4: Installing the shelves
Insert the shelf supports into the perforations in the uprights, at the required height. Then position the shelves, making sure they rest firmly on their supports. Adjust if necessary to comply with the merchandising plan.
Step 5: Levelling and stabilising
Use a spirit level to check that the gondola is perfectly level. Adjust the adjustable feet until the gondola is straight and perfectly stable. This adjustment is essential to avoid any risk of tipping over.
Step 6: Add accessories
Once the structure is assembled, add the spindles, dividers, label holders or load bars depending on the products to be displayed. These accessories will optimise merchandising and ensure a clear presentation for customers.
Conclusion
Setting up a shop gondola is an essential step in the layout of any sales outlet. By understanding the function of each component (uprights, adjustable feet, back panels, shelves and accessories) and applying the basic rules of merchandising, you can ensure that the shelving is attractive, stable and efficient.
To support you, Ecocube offers new and used gondolas that are perfectly suited to all types of business.