SEPTEMBER RETAIL ROUNDUP
- Juice
- Oct 2
- 3 min read
This month we’ve been exploring what’s been happening both in and outside of UK supermarkets. Our attention was particularly drawn to front-of-store innovation, purpose-driven charity activations, and elevated design executions.
As the month drew to a close, it was hard not to get swept up in the wave of seasonal displays beginning to take over stores. That said, we’ll be dedicating focused blogs to both Halloween and Christmas in the coming months, as activity ramps up even further. For now, here are some of our top picks from September’s store visits.
FRONT OF STORE INNOVATION
We’ve noticed a recent surge in theatrical front-of-store digital 6-sheet displays. These formats bring energy and theatre into the shopper journey, boosting brand recognition and providing a stage for education and intrigue.
Brands are increasingly taking bold ownership of this high-impact space. Lynx, for example, recently introduced shoppers to its Cherry Spritz scent with an oversized shroud installation, complete with a built-in atomiser. Shoppers couldn’t just see the brand; they could smell it as they entered, making for a creative and unique way of disruptive sampling that we don't see too often.
We had the pleasure of contributing to a recent Ben’s Original activation. An oversized pack at the front of store heroed their new takeaway-inspired, ready-to-heat range. To extend engagement, we developed an accompanying animation that brought the product story to life and captured shopper attention.
These bold, creative activations prove that the front of store is no longer missed marketing potential. It’s another chance for brands extend their brand proposition through storytelling, product offerings, and promotions for greater shopper engagement.
LEADING WITH PURPOSE
Purpose-led activations are making their mark, with brands encouraging shoppers to support charity partnerships by picking up everyday favourites. This approach not only adds value for communities, but also positions the brand as one that goes beyond delivering taste and convenience.
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we can expect to see Tickled Pink Charities partnering with brands to amplify the awareness message across stores. We’re no strangers to developing engaging charity activations with our partners. One example we’re proud of is our playful yet impactful activation with Aunt Bessie’s, which combined creativity with purpose to help spread an important message in a memorable way. Discover what we did in our case study.
THE HEADLINERS
We've spotlighted a few stand-out in-store POS executions that raised the bar with premium manufacturing, bold design, and inventive finishing touches. These weren’t just displays; they were attention-grabbing brand statements that disrupted the aisle and demanded a second look.
We're seeing brands investing so much more in their POS executions. 3D, die-cut, illuminated and digital headers are being used more often. This signifies a shift away from standard flat graphics for greater visual interest.
Conclusion
This month’s activations show that innovation, purpose, and design excellence are shaping the in-store shopper experience. From theatrical front-of-store experiences to charitable partnerships and elevated POS, brands are pushing harder than ever to capture shopper attention in meaningful ways.
As we head into the busiest retail season of the year, one thing is clear: shoppers aren’t just buying products, they’re engaging with stories, values, and experiences. The brands that deliver on all three will be the ones that truly win at the shelf.
If you have any questions or comments about our blog, or want to work with us on your next shopper activation, drop us an email at hello@juice.eu.com
