Retail is fast paced. Trends evolve rapidly, seasons swiftly come and go, and the perpetual push to create and satisfy demand is the norm. The practicalities of the retail sector means that lighting fixtures are often removed at speed as retailers regularly refurbish stores and exit premises as leases expire. Contractors must get in and out quickly. Afterall, no retailer wants its doors closed for longer than is absolutely necessary.
These factors, together with the industries focus on low cost imported lighting from the Far East, has resulted in approximately 19 million LED, solar and decorative lights in UK landfill in 2023.
The environmental impact of this level of landfill is shocking. And that’s without accounting for the aluminium in traditional retail lighting which has links to deforestation, erosion, and environmental contamination including sky high carbon emissions.
So, what needs to change? How can we stop or at least minimise this throw away culture?
Modular design keeps lighting in use for longer
The first step is to embrace a modular design approach which aligns with the Right to Repair movement. Key components are designed to be easily accessible so they can be repaired, upgraded or replaced as needed. Traditionally a faulty light was binned and quickly replaced with a brand-new version. But, thanks to a modular design approach, parts like chips, lamp-holders, track adaptors, heat sinks, internal screws, and wiring are accessible so a retail light can be in use for significantly longer. Additionally, key components can be re-used multiple times.
The servicing and buyback scheme that enables true circularity
The benefits of a modular design approach can only be achieved with a supporting circular system. That’s why Shoplight launched Circu-light which includes a service plan and buy back scheme.
Backed by a 5-year parts and labour warranty, Shoplight guarantees comprehensive coverage for any component breakdown. Remember these components can be easily fixed or replaced without the need to throw out the entire light fitting because of a modular design approach.
However, whilst the warranty ensures any failed fittings are repaired, it doesn’t always mean that the lighting scheme continues to perform at its most efficient. That’s why the Shoplight service plan includes annual maintenance, component repair or replacement, a hygiene refresh and an LED COB upgrade.
Circu-light includes a buy-back scheme that enables true circularity in retail lighting. A standout feature of its bio-polymer lighting range is their buy-back value that encourages its reuse and recycling. This offers a compelling reason for retailers to upgrade their lighting systems responsibly and recycle them knowing nothing will go to waste, whilst enjoying the benefits of credit towards their next investment when replacing or upgrading their lights.
And what does Shoplight do with these returned products? They have invested in technology and machinery that allow them to shred bio-polymer parts and reform them into brand new products.
By embedding a modularity into their product design and supporting retailers with a service plan and buy back scheme, Shoplight are actively changing how things have always been done, significantly reducing landfill waste and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in sustainable retail lighting.
