DMD Ltd.

HARDLINES – THE FUTURE OF RETAIL

phanusiak — Tue, 15 May 2012 13:46:18 +0000

The final article of the series Bruce Smith wrote for Hardlines was published recently titled The Future of Retail. You can read it below or download the PDF here.

PRODUCTS & PROTOTYPES

phanusiak — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:57:12 +0000

In specializing in retail design, there is no shortage of things we wish someone made, but they don’t. When that happens at DMD we design and make what is needed to meet the client’s end goal. Everything from mechanical bits to aesthetic pieces; we love industrial design and there’s nothing like a good extruded piece of aluminum on a Monday morning to really get the week going. DMD uses 3D CAD software and a variety of prototyping methods to explore forms, test fit parts, and facilitate productive brainstorming sessions with our clients. Our passion for this process is leading us down the product development path more and more these days and that isn’t a bad thing!

UNDERWEAR STORAGE IS A SERIOUS ISSUE

phanusiak — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 20:24:34 +0000

In a busy retail space like the Limited Brands stores, product storage and display is a serious issue. The optimum use of space, ease of finding the correct size and style, and versatility of display solutions is critical. Limited asked DMD to create a set of trays and dividers to better suit their newest generation of mill-work. DMD explored materials, finishes, and new ways of applying graphics to plastic parts while conducting costing analysis on production runs for different methods. Eventually, they settled on new injection molded units in a durable, yet recyclable plastic so after a long working life, they can be disposed of responsibly.

DMD then created 3D CAD models of each of the tray sizes, produced rapid prototypes for fit testing, and finally, production drawings for tooling.

LOBLAW PHOTO STUDIO

phanusiak — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 18:58:34 +0000

As part of the re-design and roll out of the general merchandise side of Loblaw stores, DMD had the opportunity to update the look and feel of the photo studio. The goal was to design a functional, bright, clean looking space that would wear well over the years. Several adaptations have been made to it since it’s launch to fit the full spectrum of Loblaw stores but the design is still looking great!

SPACES SELF STORAGE

phanusiak — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 17:07:23 +0000

Rental of storage units is a fantastic growth industry as consumers and businesses look to stockpile all sorts of items accumulated over the years. Whether it is precious family heirlooms or simply inventory overstock, the phenomenon is so significant that it has spawned a reality show.
Given the proliferation of these highly standardized locations, how does a brand differentiate their offering from the competition? Spaces Self Storage of Toronto, Ontario offers exceptional levels of service including access 24/7/365, climate control, complimentary use of a truck, steel shelving and more. Most importantly, staff go out of their way to be courteous and friendly. In order to introduce customers to this unique brand experience, Spaces worked with DMD to create a retail and reception zone within the facility that is attractive, and comfortable.
Featuring digital signage, compelling merchandising and minimal clutter, the retail experience at Spaces instills the potential customer with confidence and trust.

HARDLINES – THE POWER OF GRAPHICS

phanusiak — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 19:40:42 +0000

Having writen articles for Hardlines discussing the store exterior and customer journey, this is Bruce’s third article discusses graphic communications and their impact on your brand. You can read it below or click here to down it in PDF format.

THE MOBILE SHOP

phanusiak — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 19:34:12 +0000

Like many general merchandise retailers, Loblaw has entered into the wireless category with the creation of their in-store wireless brand, The Mobile Shop. PC Telecom, the division that manages this initiative, worked with DMD to create an in-store retail program destined for over 150 locations in just a few months. This included extensive prototyping and thoughtful design that is both impactful and manageable from a rollout perspective. Offering multiple carrier brands, handsets and packages, the compact kiosk optimizes every square foot while providing clarity of offer. The kiosk also provides secure product presentation, whether staffed or not, a key design criteria. Kiosks occupy prime real estate in-store while respecting the highly controlled and effective retail space that surrounds it (also a DMD design). Utilizing digital signage, compelling merchandising methods and controlled branding, the kiosk is making Loblaw a destination for wireless products in Canada.

LCBO

phanusiak — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 13:32:08 +0000

The LCBO is one of the the world’s largest single purchasers, distributors and retailers of beverage alcohol. The provincial agency buys and sells wine, spirits and beer from 82 countries to serve Ontario consumers and licensees. Some 22,000 products are offered representing 3,381 brands. As part of its ongoing commitment to customer service, the LCBO maintains informative and well merchandised stores that have won multiple design awards. With 620 locations across the province, the retail network is a critically important expression of the LCBO brand. DMD is proud to have been selected as an agency of record with respect to all LCBO retail design services. DMD is part of the team that creates a great shopping experience. We provide new and renovated store design and planning, lighting design, brand and design program adherence, review of barrier free accessibility requirements, bylaw compliance, project management, drawing documentation, management and archiving, and BCIN and building permit application and closure. DMD’s disciplined approach and obsession for accuracy was key in it being selected by LCBO through a competitive bidding process. Our creativity, knowledge of construction, understanding and use of software technology along with adherence to time lines and budget constraints were also key. Foremost is our ongoing commitment to “play well with others”, be they internal or external team members.

PRINCESS AUTO

phanusiak — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 18:45:40 +0000

Over the past year Princess Auto and DMD have worked to create an exciting, new retail experience. In this highly collaborative project, team members kept all the great attributes of this very unique, Canadian retailer while adding exciting new elements for their guests.

The first iteration of the program opened in Victoria, B.C. just this week and those that camped out overnight to be the first through the doors were thrilled with the experience.

Congratulations to our friends at Princess Auto for their commitment, imagination and hard work. Thank you for the privilege of working with you in bringing the vision to life.

Check out the Princess Auto Facebook page here.

HARDLINES – RETAIL ENVIRONMENT DESIGN

phanusiak — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 19:55:36 +0000

Once again, Bruce Smith has been published in Hardlines Magazine with a follow up to his article on leveraging your storefront, this issue focuses on how to keep the customers engaged once through your front door. You can read it below or click here to down it in PDF format.