Retail

In retail, light is part of the merchandising. The aim is a clear hierarchy: the product is brightest, circulation is calm, and the shopper's eye moves from one focal point to the next.

Planning values

• General lighting: 300–500 lx on circulation areas, from downlights or diffused linear modules.
• Accent ratio: 3:1 to 5:1 for everyday merchandise, up to 10:1 or more for feature displays and windows.
• Colour: CRI 90 or higher; for food, textiles and cosmetics, check R9 (saturated red) separately.
• Glare: shoppers look up at shelving and mannequins — deep-set sources and anti-glare accessories matter more than in an office.

Luminaire choice

Magnetic track or mains track spotlights carry most of the accent work because displays move. Narrow beams (15°) suit jewellery and small objects; 24° is the common choice for mannequins and tables; 36° washes a shelving bay. Recessed downlights or linear modules fill in the general layer.

Colour temperature

3000 K reads warm and premium; 3500–4000 K is crisp and neutral for sportswear and electronics. Keep one colour temperature per zone so materials do not shift as customers walk.