by Brianna Crandall — c October 3, 2012—A new research report from the Professional Retail Store Maintenance Association (PRSM) shows that retail facilities managers managed their operations through a rapid succession of changes during 2012, with challenges likely experienced to some extent by FMs in other industries as well. The report is designed to help retail FMs grasp industry changes and stay ahead of the curve, detailing trends in technology, sustainability, vendor diversification and expansion, and retail construction and the economy.
“Retail is changing at a breakneck pace. As stores evolve within the shifting landscape of retail, integrating technology, becoming more sustainable, and redefining the shopping experience in the interior space, FMs will be challenged to keep pace. Top Retail Facilities Management Professionals will be the ones who address the issues of today, and the emerging ones tomorrow,” reads the 2012 Trends Report: Current and Future Trends Impacting Retail Facilities Management.
“FMs will continuously assess their skill sets, as the ones they possess today may not empower them in the future,” continues the report. “The ability to harness the power of technology and data, to analyze, to weather the uncertainties of today’s markets and recognize the role of sustainable practices, will all be key to their future development. Armed with the information presented in this trends report, Retail Facility Managers will have a valuable tool to stay ahead of the curve, and meet the challenges ahead.”
The report stems from PRSM’s three-year strategic plan initiated in early 2011 to provide the industry with accurate, timely solutions and opinions on crucial industry issues and challenges. Report contents:
Technology
- Building Information Modeling — data-driven, three-dimensional software increasingly used in retail design and construction
- Geographic Information Systems — digital mapping, which provides a constant, real-time information stream for a store location
- Computer Assisted Facility Maintenance — a workplace management system capable of integrating building automation systems and CMMS platforms
Sustainability
- Renewable Energy — retail is increasing installations of solar panels at the store level
- LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) — a suite of rating systems for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings
- Green Leasing — integration of energy and water efficiency, emissions reduction, waste minimization and other sustainability objectives throughout the entire commercial leasing process
Vendor Diversification and Expansion
- Vendor Management — maintaining a solid base of vendors that satisfies a store’s needs, while maintaining exceptional service
- Mergers and Acquisitions — a changing landscape with companies actively acquiring other vendors to expand reach and broaden service offerings
Retail Construction and the Economy
- Lifecycle Costs — the ongoing challenge to find creative and cost effective repair solutions matched to budget allowances and maintenance standards
- Expansions and Remodels — store repair and refresh as priority initiatives, over new construction for the foreseeable future
The report was unveiled at the association’s Mid-Year Conference, during which attendees discussed the trends outlined in the report and took part in an informal poll. Technology advances with smart phones and tablets topped the group’s list of most exciting developments, followed by new opportunities driven by expanded vendor partnerships.
Visit the Resources page of the PRSM Association Web site for additional content, including the PRSM 2012 (HVAC) Benchmarking Report, best practices white papers, and other interactive tools for facilities managers across many retail segments.
