In the evolving world of retail construction, where market dynamics and consumer behaviors are constantly shifting, the role of a construction professional has never been more crucial.
S. M. Wilson has been providing construction services for 100+ years. The company has been fortunate to have been a strong retail builder, enduring the industry’s ups and downs through economic downfalls and upswings. The company’s retail experts have knowledge of industry trends and patterns to provide a better understanding of what is needed in today’s market to stay competitive.
“Retail construction has always been about speed and precision,” said Jack Kinamore, project director and retail construction expert who has worked on more than 70 retail construction projects for S. M. Wilson across the United States.
“But we’re seeing a need now for even greater flexibility. The retail market can pivot on a dime—what’s in today might be out tomorrow. As construction professionals, we must anticipate these changes and be ready to deliver projects that meet today’s needs and are adaptable for the future.”
THE EVOLVING RETAIL CONSTRUCTION MARKET
Retail construction is unique. Unlike other sectors, it must adapt quickly to trends, technological advancements and consumers’ ever-changing needs.
With E-commerce continually reshaping the physical retail landscape, adaptability is more critical than ever. The role of a construction partner goes beyond just building structures; it involves creating environments that enhance the shopping experience, attract foot traffic and integrate seamlessly with digital platforms.
Furthermore, the retail construction market is evolving to meet changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. Retailers are integrating smart technology, such as Internet of Things (IoT) devices, for inventory management and customer experience enhancements in their retail spaces and e-commerce facilities.
NAVIGATING ECONOMIC CHALLENGES
The ever-changing economy presents unique challenges for retail construction. Today’s construction market involves fluctuating material costs, labor shortages, and financial uncertainty. Yet, these challenges also offer opportunities to renew partnerships and demonstrate value.
“In times of economic uncertainty, it’s easy to get caught up in cost-cutting measures, but that’s when the strength of a partnership shows,” Kinamore said. “A good partner helps navigate these challenges by finding creative solutions through value analysis, leveraging relationships with suppliers, or being flexible with scheduling. It’s about finding ways to deliver quality without compromising the project’s integrity.”
Adaptability is key. To become a trusted partner in the retail sector, a contractor must remain versatile and flexible as the pace and stakes constantly change.
Suggested methods to be more adaptable in your construction process:
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Engage early with design teams to ensure efficient design and constructability
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Early-phase material procurement
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Adopt lean construction practices
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Evaluate alternative construction materials
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Procure locally sourced materials
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Review options for bulk material purchasing
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Incorporate offsite prefabrication of building assemblies
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING A GOOD PARTNER
Partnerships are at the heart of successful retail construction projects. Being a good partner means more than just delivering a project on time and within budget—it’s about collaboration, transparency and long-term commitment.
“In retail construction, you’re not just a builder; you’re a partner,” said Mark Cochran, Chief Operating Officer. “The best projects happen when there’s a true partnership between the construction team, the client, the design team and all other stakeholders. This means working together from day one, understanding each other’s needs and proactively addressing challenges. A successful partnership is one where everyone’s goals are aligned, which only happens through constant communication and trust.”
Being a good partner also means understanding the client’s business model and objectives. This can involve everything from understanding brand identity to knowing the intricacies of retail operations.
One of S. M. Wilson’s long-time clients, Von Maur, has partnered on new ground-up stores and existing anchor store renovations throughout the United States for the last 15+ years. This long-term relationship has allowed our project team to be integrated with Von Maur and their design team throughout design, construction and project close-out to maximize the project delivery, quality and the customer experience. Engaging with the project team at the onset of design allows us to provide solutions regarding constructability, quality, material selections, phasing recommendations and brand awareness.
“Von Maur has chosen to work with S. M. Wilson time and time again because we know your firm will provide innovative and value-driven solutions, and this project was no exception,” said David Burke, Vice President of Operations with Von Maur.
WHAT’S NEXT
To enhance the shopping experience and drive customer traffic, retailers invest in interactive layouts, visual displays, and creative lighting solutions to diversify their brands and improve customer experiences.
As online shopping continues to be a factor, many retailers are shifting their focus to their physical store designs. This leads to more flexible layouts that can adapt to changing needs and incorporate convenient customer pick-up at the brick-and-mortar locations.
For more than 30+ years, S. M. Wilson has partnered with the Target Corporation to construct new stores and renovate and add to existing stores throughout the US.
“S. M. Wilson has proven themselves time and time again by completing difficult projects and exceeding our standards. We are proud of the continued teamwork that S. M. Wilson & Co. and Target Corporation have built over the years,” said Dan Willenbring, Former Regional Construction Manager, Target Corporation.
S. M. Wilson continues to serve our clients by providing amazing experiences through innovative and collaborative processes while navigating the retail industry’s ever-changing landscape.
For additional information about the changing retail industry landscape and how S. M. Wilson & Co. can be your construction partner, contact Mark Cochran at mark.cochran@smwilson.com or Jack Kinamore at jackkinamore@smwilson.com.
As a trusted partner, the company has built its reputation for 100+ years as a design/build, construction management and general contracting firm. Always putting people first, our company is committed to adding significant value and building client partnerships. S. M. Wilson enriches lives by creating spaces to live, work, heal, learn and play. Our expertise is in many specialty markets, primarily education, commercial, municipal, healthcare, industrial and retail. S. M. Wilson continues transforming landscapes and communities throughout the country, especially in the Midwest. For more information, go to smwilson.com.