Bathstore is testing a new small-format store at its Harrogate branch that has a greater focus on design and multichannel.

The 2,800 sq ft shop, which is almost half the size of a standard store, stocks 18 bathroom sets compared with 36 in a bigger shop, but customers can browse the full range using in-store screens.

It is the first store to push the retailer’s new 3D design service, which will be rolled out across its 170 shops. In-store designers can create a plan of a customer’s bathroom, based on the real dimensions, that they can take home to help in the decision-making process.

The retailer described the store design as “spa-style” and it has been laid out to create several zones that will feature standout bathroom sets.

It also includes new point of sale signage to show the full cost of a bathroom set, including any necessary extras, rather than just individual items.

Bathstore boss Gary Favell described it as a “turn-key” store, where customers can come in for complete solutions from inspiration through to design and installation.

Favell, a former MFI boss, joined the bathroom retailer in June last year following its acquisition by Leeds-based investment firm Endless.

Interiors Survey

Retail Week is conducting a short survey to learn more about the current trends in store design and the challenges facing the sector, as well as find out what retailers have the best store designs.

The survey should take no longer than 2 minutes to complete and all participants will be in with a chance of winning a £50 Amazon voucher in our prize draw.

To complete the survey go to: tinyurl.com/interiorssurvey