When NEXT was getting ready to open its largest-ever retail store at Lakeside Shopping Centre, it wanted more than a traditional store opening campaign. The objective was to create a shopping centre-wide brand experience that would build anticipation, increase awareness and guide shoppers towards its new flagship destination.
ARC UK got this opportunity to deliver a complete shopping centre graphics installation programme and manage every stage of the project from site survey and print production to finishing, delivery and installation. Working to a tight timeline ahead of the July 2025 opening, our team installed large-format graphics, escalator branding, pillar wraps, balustrade graphics and hanging banners across key locations throughout the shopping centre.
The result was a cohesive retail environment that supported the flagship store launch, strengthened brand visibility and created a memorable experience for shoppers visiting one of the UK’s busiest retail destinations.
Planning a flagship store launch? Speak with the ARC UK team about your retail graphics requirements.
| Project Detail |
Information |
| Industry | Retail |
| Client | NEXT |
| Service Provided | Shopping Centre Graphics Installation |
| Location | Lakeside Shopping Centre, West Thurrock |
| Project Type | Flagship Store Launch Campaign |
| Turnaround Time | Fast-track delivery completed before opening day |
| Key Challenge | Creating centre-wide awareness while meeting a tight launch deadline |
| Key Outcome | High visibility retail branding delivered on time with consistent brand presentation |
NEXT is one of the UK’s leading fashion and lifestyle retailers, offering clothing, homeware and beauty products through its nationwide stores and online channels. The opening of its new 82,000 sq ft flagship store at Lakeside Shopping Centre marked a significant investment, bringing together multiple departments and well-known partner brands, including FatFace, Bath & Body Works and Costa Coffee.
To support the launch, NEXT wanted to create anticipation ahead of opening day and encourage shoppers to visit the new store. The campaign needed to build awareness across the shopping centre while reflecting the brand’s premium positioning through a consistent, high-quality visual presence.
Launching a store in a busy shopping centre comes with lots of challenges. The advertising had to get people’s attention without bothering them while they shop. The signs and pictures had to match the brand’s colour and consistency so that it stands out even in the busiest retail centres in the UK. This project had to be done on time before the store opened. Every step from designing to putting up the signs needed to be planned so that everything was ready on time.
Some of the problems with this project were:
For people who are opening new stores, getting attention and running the store smoothly while making it stunning is often the hardest part.
Need support for an upcoming retail launch? Request a consultation with ARC UK.
ARC UK provided a complete turnkey service designed to simplify delivery while ensuring consistency from concept through installation.
Strategic Planning and Site Surveys
Every successful retail graphics project begins with understanding the environment.
ARC UK conducted detailed site surveys throughout Lakeside Shopping Centre to identify high impact locations and determine the most effective graphic formats for each area.
The survey process helped establish production specifications, installation requirements and project timelines while ensuring all graphics would integrate effectively within the shopping centre environment.
Artwork Preparation and Production
Working closely with the NEXT marketing and design teams, ARC UK adapted artwork across multiple formats to ensure visual consistency.
Production files were prepared for large format applications while maintaining colour accuracy, brand standards and premium presentation.
Materials were selected to balance durability, sustainability and visual impact, ensuring graphics remained effective throughout the campaign period.
Large Format Graphics Installation
The installation programme included:
Balustrade Graphics
Ten double-sided balustrade graphics produced using high tack self-adhesive vinyl delivered visibility across key customer routes and shopping areas.
Escalator Graphics
Double-sided escalator graphics maximised exposure throughout the shopper journey, helping reinforce campaign messaging across multiple levels.
Hanging Banner Installation
A large 3m x 5m atrium banner created a dramatic focal point, ensuring visibility from multiple areas within the shopping centre.
Pillar Wrap Graphics
Eight pillar wraps of varying sizes were installed using PVC free black back fabric materials.
The use of one-piece fabric installations eliminated visible joins, helping maintain a premium finish and consistent brand presentation.
Expert Installation Management
Installation required careful coordination across multiple locations and surfaces.
ARC UK’s experienced installation team managed:
The project was completed ahead of schedule and was ready for the flagship opening.
Expert Installation Management
Installation required careful coordination across multiple locations and surfaces.
ARC UK’s experienced installation team managed:
The project was completed ahead of schedule and was ready for the flagship opening.
Looking for nationwide installation support? Talk to ARC UK’s retail graphics specialists.
1. Discovery and Project Planning
ARC UK worked with NEXT stakeholders to understand objectives, timelines and branding requirements.
2. Site Survey and Assessment
Detailed surveys identified optimal locations and installation specifications throughout the shopping centre.
3. Artwork Adaptation
Creative assets were prepared and resized for multiple large format applications.
4. Production and Quality Control
Graphics were printed, finished and inspected to ensure consistency and durability.
5. Logistics and Delivery
Materials were coordinated and delivered according to the installation programme.
6. Installation and Completion
Graphics were installed across all designated locations and reviewed before sign-off.
The completed campaign helped transform Lakeside Shopping Centre into a cohesive brand environment supporting the launch of NEXT’s largest flagship store.
Key business outcomes included:
Beyond visual impact, the project demonstrated how strategic shopping centre graphics can help retailers create anticipation, increase awareness and strengthen customer engagement before a major store opening.
Discuss your next retail activation with ARC UK’s project team.
“ARC UK delivered a professional and well-executed graphics programme that helped create a strong visual presence throughout the shopping centre ahead of our flagship store opening. The project was completed on time and to a high standard.”
Businesses across the UK trust ARC UK because of our ability to manage complex retail graphics projects from start to finish.
Key capabilities demonstrated within this project include:
From flagship store launches to fully branded shopping centre environments, ARC UK provides end-to-end graphic solutions that maximise visibility, enhance the customer experience and support your commercial objectives.
Whether you’re opening a branded store, refreshing a shopping centre or launching a retail campaign, ARC UK is here to help with expert graphics, high-quality production and professional installation from start to finish.
Connect with the ARC UK team today to discuss your project, request a site survey or receive a tailored quotation.
