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SHAW LIVING INTRODUCES
IN-STORE DISPLAY/KIOSK;
LOTS OF RUGS IN SMALL SPACE
Shaw Living Display/Kiosk has a 25 sq. ft. footprint and features an interactive video component showing the company's complete rug line and 68 live in-store sample boards.
DALTON, GA. -- Shaw Living has launched a new rug display/kiosk that shows 68 sample boards in 12 x 19-inch samples. The new merchandising system, which has a 25 sq. ft. footprint, is aimed at stores which have limited display space or which do not currently have a rug department, according to Jim Curtin, vice president of sales for Shaw Living.
Centerpiece of the display unit is a flat-screen video screen which shows a video loop featuring Kathy Ireland. Shoppers can also use the interactive touch screen with a "Find My Rug" program that suggests Shaw Living rugs based on the shopper's personal choices of style, color, size and shape.
"The Shaw Living Interactive Display is an answer for many flooring retailers who would like to be in the rug business but have limited space," said Curtin.
Using the interactive digital component in the kiosk allows the consumer to view over 5,500 Shaw Living rugs, Curtin noted, adding that the display material can be simply updated with a flash drive as the line changes over time. The dealer tailors the display to the store's individual needs by choosing the 68 live sample boards used "live" on the display.
Shaw Living is gearing the new merchandising unit to floor covering specialty stores and other retail channels that may not have full rug departments.
"Rugs are a great add-on sales, especially to hard surface sales. Rugs require no installation and have few claims issues," said Curtin. "It's an easy and economical way to increase business."
The new system is envisioned as a silent sales person, noted Kim Barta, brand manager for Shaw Living. Barta has devoted much of her time in recent months to the development of the display/kisok.
"The display and interactive system were created to make choosing a rug easier and more fun. It has been designed help remove the shopper's feeling of being overwhelmed by choices," she said.
"Research indicates consumers want more information in the store and on their own terms," Barta added. "This display quickly educates shoppers on color, construction, fiber, shape and other information to help the consumer's confidence in making a buying decision."
The interactive component of the kiosk also helps educate the store's sales force, Barta noted.
"Retail sales associates have immediate access to a full range of designs, constructions, colors and sizes in all price points," Barta said. "It's an easy way to sell rugs with minimal training or product knowledge required."
The retailer's cost for the unit is $159 per month for 36 months. The cost includes delivery and assembly as well as updates of the interactive video.
The Shaw Living Merchandising Unit made its debut at last week's Atlanta International Rug Market.
The unit is now being shown at major Shaw Winter Regional Shows around the US.
It will also be shown at the upcoming Winter markets in Tupelo, Jan. 22 to 24; Las Vegas World Market Center, Feb. 1 to 5, and the New York Home Fashions Market (Home Textiles Market), March 8 to 12.
Shaw Living Merchandising Unit and Interactive Kiosk on display at Shaw's Atlanta showroom.
1.16.10
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