Wednesday 07-05-2025 - 09:02

For over 15 years now, The Retailer Group has supported students’ unions in the design and build of convenience and clothing shops, food outlets, reception areas, and general student spaces.

Our work also includes reviewing and improving operations, boosting both sales and margins. In addition, we offer creative services such as web design and graphic creation, helping SUs strengthen their branding, communicate more effectively, and enhance the digital side of the student experience. The rapidly evolving landscape we all operate in continues to shift at pace with the expectations of today’s student body dramatically shifted, driven by cultural, technological, and economic changes.

One of the most significant shifts has been the rise in student expectations. Today’s students are not only more diverse but also more discerning. They’ve grown up in an age of digital convenience, curated brand experiences, and socially responsible consumption. They expect more from their campus facilities, more choice, higher quality, and spaces that reflect their values. Sustainability, inclusivity, and community now play essential roles in retail and hospitality design. 

The growth of technology has played a pivotal role. From the introduction of contactless payments to mobile ordering, self-service tills, and most recently cashierless shops, the digital revolution has transformed the student shopping experience. In convenience stores, the surge of students at peak times often leads to frustrating queues. The first shop we designed was in Sheffield SU, and both the look and feel, as well as our entire design approach have changed dramatically since then. Ensuring fixtures are adaptable has been critical in future-proofing shops as demographics and product ranges evolve. At Huddersfield SU, for example, installing a bank of self-service tills significantly reduced queue times, and student feedback on the new look store was overwhelmingly positive.

Flexibility in space usage has become another key consideration. As the lines between studying, socialising, and shopping continue to blur, student spaces must now be multi-functional. Retail and food outlets double as social and study zones, with carefully considered layouts, lighting, and furniture that encourage both productivity and community engagement. The Retailer Group has responded by designing modular, adaptable environments that evolve in step with student needs.

Looking ahead, the next few years are likely to bring even more transformation. With continued growth in digital integration, a deeper focus on sustainability, and an ever-changing student demographic, SU retail and hospitality spaces must become even more responsive and innovative. We've recently designed the first cashierless shop in a compact 16 square metre footprint, signalling a shift toward small, well-stocked outlets in libraries or other student areas, offering 24/7 service without high overheads.

We have worked with many great teams across universities and look forward to adding value in shops, cafés and social spaces whether it be a low-cost refresh, a complete refurbishment or an operational review. The Retailer Group remains committed to offering value for money and working in the best interest of SUs. As a strategic partner with NUS Services, we continue to create spaces that not only meet today’s challenges but are ready for tomorrow’s opportunities. 

For further information, contact gordon@theretailer.co.uk