3 Ways to Use Purpose-Driven Design to Drive Community Engagement

When is a store more than a store? When it becomes a gathering space for people of like minds and interests and a vibrant expression of your core values. This year at the International Retail Design Conference, Oct. 9-10, we’ve gathered a powerful team of thought leaders to explore how to reimagine your space through purpose-driven design.

Along with a brand ambassador from The Good Pour, panelists Amy Jordan, VP of Business Development, Facilities, Goodwill of Southern Piedmont and Olivia Biagi, Vice President of Merchandising at University Co-Op, The University of Texas at Austin, will join moderators Eric Daniel, Creative Director, Little Diversified Architectural Consulting Inc. and Daniel Montaño, Partner & Retail Design Principal, Little Diversified Architectural Consulting Inc., for this action-packed discussion of success stories and how-tos.

But the beauty of purpose-driven design is that you can begin implementing these ideas at a very basic level right now. Here are three simple ways to get started:  

• Create a sustainable materials showcase

  If sustainability is a core value of your business, consider creating a dedicated section in your store that highlights sustainable materials and products – along with signage that explains how they contribute to a more sustainable future. This reinforces your brand’s commitment to sustainability and educates your customers on the importance of making eco-friendly choices.

• Host workshops and events

  Does your store focus on artisanal goods? Consider hosting workshops where local artisans teach customers how to create handmade products. Are you targeted to the youth market? Create events led by local teen leaders. These experiences foster a sense of community and position your store as a place where people can connect over shared interests.

• Create interactive storytelling spaces

  What’s the story you want to tell with your brand? Set up an interactive display that shares that story through touchscreens, videos, or “hands-on” experiences. If your store features hand-crafted items from other countries, for example, you can show how those products made their way to your shelves – or show how local customers are using these products in their own homes.

Engaging your community through purpose-driven design provides an opportunity to get the word out about your store and share the values that drive you. To learn even more techniques and winning strategies, plan on joining us at IRDC 2024!