How Modular Construction is Rebuilding Retail

coffee shop drive thru offsite wood cladding

The decline of the high street continues, with major retailers such as Debenhams, Quiz and Pret a Manger closing brick-and-mortar stores on an unprecedented scale. As the trend continues, KES Group looks at how modular construction is rebuilding retail in a way that is sustainable, scalable and successful. Check it out and don’t forget to see our blog for more offshore insights!

 

The ‘death of the high street’ is far from a new concept. Skyrocketing rates, high rental charges and a consumer shift towards e-commerce have placed physical retailers in a precarious position as they struggle to balance rising costs with dwindling profits. Indeed, whilst retailers such as Argos have adapted to the situation with a fully digitalised catalogue, others such as Toys R’ Us have sadly vanished with the times. 

 

Modular Construction and Retail

Whilst these high-street losses represent the impact of a long-running trend, the deterioration of high street businesses has been greatly exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, despite the challenges of today, several areas within retail signal hope for the future; including coffee shops, fast-food chains and click-and-collect businesses.

 Offsite construction presents several advantages to the retail sector – especially where eateries, drive-thrus and click-and-collect businesses are concerned. We’ve pulled together some key reasons why these businesses should consider modular construction to protect their present and secure their future…

 

Fast Food Done Right

drive thru retail food red modular build

Starting up a food retail business poses several challenges. Beyond needing enough space to accommodate staff and customers, eateries must also allow for sufficient space for storage, food preparation and cooking. Meeting all of these needs often requires a large retail space and a major sum of investment.

Modular construction presents an opportunity to meet these needs in a way that is efficient and effective. Spacious and robust, SMARTBUILDS provide the space needed to execute a full dining menu. In many cases, interior spaces can be readapted to accommodate more customers or to react to changing social distancing requirements. 

Most importantly, these compact buildings allow for a LEED-certified drive-thru service, helping you serve more customers than ever before. Not convinced? Check out our recent project with Northern Ireland’s first-ever modular drive-thru ice cream parlour.

 

Franchising Opportunities

Expanding your brick-and-mortar business change doesn’t have to break the bank. With KES Group, retail businesses can create bespoke outlets that match their established branding. This means matching their exteriors in terms of exterior fabrication and brickwork, as well as creating an internal fit-out that looks as good as a brick-and-mortar building. 

The key selling point here is flexibility. Modular buildings open up new retail opportunities for businesses that want to expand but may be reluctant to commit to an annual or multi-year rental agreement. Furthermore, if you wish to relocate your franchise, the building goes with you. When it comes to franchising, modular construction can facilitate a simple and straightforward experience.

Save on Cost, Save on Time

Modular construction is more time-efficient and cost-effective than any other traditional construction method, with projects completed an average of 30-50% quicker than traditional construction methods. This is thanks to the sheer speed of offsite construction, with the indoor construction process taking place alongside site and foundation work, meaning no delays due to weather. For retail businesses, this presents a unique opportunity to start trading in several weeks.

Retail businesses can also make huge savings when opting for a modular build. Brand new modular units are an average of 35% cheaper than brick and mortar buildings thanks to a faster process, less labour intensive and conducted offsite using fewer materials.

 

 

A Greener Approach to Retail

The fight against climate change is at the top of the public agenda, with movements such as the Better Retail Better World Initiative calling on retailers to drastically reduce their carbon emissions. By opting for modular construction, retailers big and small can lead to positive environmental change. 

So – why is modular construction an environmentally-friendly alternative for expanding retailers? Whilst many of these benefits can be attributed to modular’s prioritisation of eco-friendly and recycled building materials, a lot of it goes down to process. An in-house construction process also means less use of vehicles and transport whilst guaranteeing less waste.

 

Launch Your New Modular Retail Site with KES Group

Are you considering opening a new retail business or drive-thru eatery? As a leading specialist in modular buildings, KES Group can design, manufacture and install bespoke units in a matter of weeks. To get started, get in touch today! 

 

Share on

Recent Posts

2023 – A Busy Year for KES Group

2023 – A Busy Year for KES Group

2023 - A Busy Year for KES Group Where has the year gone? It felt like summer yesterday, now we are on the home straight for the Christmas break and preparing for what 2024 has in store. How it Began From the beginning of the year, we have been manufacturing our...

Can Modular Help with the RAAC Crisis?

Can Modular Help with the RAAC Crisis?

RAAC is getting a lot of attention in the media as of late – and not for the best reasons. Once a ‘wonder’ material is now deemed a catastrophic epidemic, especially within the education sector. The History During the post-war building boom in the 1950s, '60s and...

Operation KES Group Phase 2

Operation KES Group Phase 2

Operation KES Group Phase 2 Over the past two weeks, the Phase 2 expansion project has already started at KES Group HQ, with much of the steelwork completed on ‘Big Blue 2’.The new facilities will be equipped with cutting-edge technologies and plans to be fully...

Setting the Standard for Lean Manufacturing

Setting the Standard for Lean Manufacturing

Setting the Standard for Lean Manufacturing Our priority is and always will be to produce the highest quality product for our customers, encompassing an innovative approach to manufacturing. KES Group has adopted aspects of lean manufacturing, in response to increased...

Max. file size: 512 MB.
We consider applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or other factors that are not work related. Equal access to programs, services, and employment is available to all persons. Those applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to complete the application and/or interview process should notify the individual responsible for Human Resources. This application will be given every consideration, but its receipt does not imply that the applicant will be employed. The company is committed to maintaining a workplace free of the problems associated with drug or alcohol abuse. As such, all applicants are required to undergo testing as part of the pre-employment process. If you currently use illegal drugs, we suggest that you not complete the application process. A positive drug test will result in disqualification from employment or withdrawal of any employment offer. In order to be considered for employment, this application must be completed in full. Please indicate the specific job title for which you are interested in being considered. Applicant Statement: A. In consideration for the Company’s review of this application, I authorize investigation of all statements contained in this application. My cooperation includes authorizing the Company to conduct a pre-employment drug screen and a consumer report that includes, but is not limited to a criminal history examination. Additionally, I authorize the Company, in consideration for the Company’s review of this application, to supply my employment record, in whole or in part, and in confidence, to any prospective employer, government agency, or other party, with a legal or proper interest. B. As a candidate for employment, I realize that the Company requires information concerning my past work performance, background, and qualifications. Much of this information may only be supplied by my prior employers. In consideration for the Company evaluating my application, I request that the previous employers referenced above provide information to the Company’s human resource representatives or designees concerning my work performance, my employment relationship, my qualifications, and my conduct while an employee of their organizations. Recognizing that this information is necessary for the Company to consider me for employment, I release these prior employers and waive any claims, which I may have against those employers for providing this information. C. I certify that all statements made by me on this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledge and that I have withheld nothing that would, if disclosed, affect this application unfavorably. I understand that misrepresentation or omission of facts will result in disqualification from further consideration for hire or for dismissal. D. I hereby acknowledge that I have read the above statement and understand the same.
Terms & Conditions(Required)
We will take care of the installation of your internal and external fixtures and fittings. Our skilled craftsmen are highly experienced in all aspects of joinery, from cabinetry and flooring to door and window frames. We use only the finest materials and the latest techniques to ensure that your joinery is durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. In addition to our joinery services, we also offer a full range of external and internal fitting services. This includes the installation of windows, doors, lighting fixtures, plumbing fixtures, electrical fixtures, and more. Our team will work closely with you to ensure that your fixtures and fittings are installed to your exact specifications, and that they are fully functional and safe. At KES Group, we take pride in our commitment to delivering the highest quality workmanship and customer service. From the initial consultation to the final walk-through, we will be there to guide you every step of the way. Whether you are a homeowner, a business owner, or a contractor, you can count on us to bring your project to life and to make sure that your experience is stress-free and enjoyable. So why wait? Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your project.

At KES, we understand that construction projects can be a daunting task for any property owner or developer. This is why we offer full project management services to make sure your SMARTBUILD project runs smoothly from start to finish. Our team of experts will oversee every aspect of the construction process, ensuring that everything is done according to your specifications and requirements.

One of the key services that we offer is the delivery and crane installation of your SMARTBUILD. Our team of experienced technicians will transport your SMARTBUILD to the site, ensuring that it arrives in perfect condition. Once on site, our crane operators will carefully lift the structure into position, ensuring that it is perfectly aligned and securely fastened.

The installation process is carried out by our experienced team of technicians who have been trained to handle all aspects of construction. They are equipped with the latest tools and technologies to ensure that your SMARTBUILD is installed quickly and efficiently, minimizing any disruptions to your daily operations.

At KES, we take pride in our ability to deliver outstanding construction services, and our project management services are no exception. We understand that time is of the essence, and that is why we work hard to ensure that your SMARTBUILD project is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality.

So if you're looking for a company that can help you with the construction, delivery and crane installation of your project, look no further than KES. Contact us today to learn more about our project management services and how we can help you bring your vision to life.

We take pride in our market-leading design team, who are dedicated to providing each of our clients with a personalised and bespoke design solution. Our team of experts applies their extensive knowledge and creative expertise to bring your vision to life, delivering a customised design that reflects your unique needs and requirements.

Whether you’re looking to build a new home or develop a commercial project, our design team is equipped with the tools and skills to make your vision a reality. With years of experience in the industry, they understand the importance of creating a design that not only looks great, but is also functional, cost-effective and meets all your requirements.

When you work with our design team, you can expect a high level of communication and collaboration from start to finish. They listen closely to your ideas, provide guidance and suggestions to help bring your project to life, and work closely with our engineering and construction teams to ensure that your design is executed to the highest standards.

We believe that your design should be a reflection of your unique personality and style, and we strive to provide you with a bespoke solution that truly captures your vision. Our goal is to create a design that not only meets your practical needs, but also exceeds your expectations in terms of style, creativity and functionality.

We believe in delivering quality, and our design team is at the forefront of this commitment. If you’re looking for a company that truly cares about your project and delivers a bespoke design solution, look no further. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how our design team can help bring your vision to life.

At KES, we understand that every project is unique and requires a tailored approach. That's why our team of experts takes the time to build an in-depth understanding of our client's project requirements, challenges, and constraints. By carefully considering each aspect of the project, we can ensure that the final outcome meets the client's expectations.

Our experts have years of experience in the industry and are equipped with the knowledge and expertise needed to handle even the most complex projects. They listen closely to the client's goals, needs, and vision for the project and work closely with them to develop a plan of action.

One of our key strengths is our ability to propose innovative solutions that address the client's specific challenges and constraints. We understand that every project is unique and requires a different approach, and our experts are dedicated to delivering the best possible results for each and every client.

Our commitment to delivering high-quality results and exceptional customer service has earned us a reputation for excellence in the industry. We take pride in our work and are dedicated to ensuring that each project is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality.

So if you're looking for a company that will take the time to understand your project requirements, challenges, and constraints and provide you with innovative solutions, look no further than our team of experts. We're here to help you bring your dreams to life.