Apart from slatwall, gridwall and gondola shelving, there are several other types of shelves and hardware, and all the hardware behind the shelves like the brackets that hold shelves together. There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes, before a retail store is ready for the public – a lot of thought and a lot of choices.

So let’s look at some decisions that well help you choose the right shelving for your store, the first of which might be location. Is the shelving going to be a focal point on the storefront, used in the stock room, or somewhere else? Is space a major factor, or do you have an alcove, wall, or closet space where some shelving could fit?

If you require shelving for the stock room, then you don’t have to worry too much about the aesthetic look, as much as the function and stability. This is why many people choose wire shelving for storage purposes. If they want to use nice looking wire shelving upfront then they will look at chrome wall shelving.

Another consideration is what exactly are you are going to put on the shelves. If you are putting heavy items on the shelves, you will need more sturdy ones, or if you put lighter items on the shelves you won’t need as much support.

Along the same lines, you should try to choose shelving that matches or compliments the décor. It may be that melamine shelving or glass shelving would be what looks best in your store.

Glass display shelves are a good way of showcasing your merchandise. If dropped, glass will break, but tempered glass will not shatter into chards and is safe especially in a retail environment. Tempered glass is also less likely to get chipped and is about twice as strong as normal untreated glass. Another consideration is the thickness of the glass.

Glass shelving will come with a rating that tells you what the allowable weights on the shelves are. Any reputable retailer will be able to advise you of these allowable weights before you buy glass shelving from them.

Whatever type of shelving you choose, also purchase the brackets and hardware that match. Make sure you look at and discuss all your options before making shelving decisions.