Retail lighting drives sales. It layers ambient, feature, and display light to draw the eye and render merchandise faithfully, with accent contrast doing much of the work.
| Zone | Target |
|---|---|
| General sales floor | 500 to 750 lux |
| Feature displays | 1,000 to 2,000 lux (accent) |
| Window displays | 1,000 to 2,500 lux |
| Fitting rooms | 300 to 500 lux, CRI 90+ |
| Checkout | 300 to 500 lux |
Accent ratios and color
Use a 5:1 to 10:1 accent-to-ambient ratio on feature displays to pull the eye. High center-beam candlepower spots give that punch; track systems keep it flexible.
Choose CRI 90+ with strong deep-red (R9) for apparel, skin, and food. Match color temperature to the brand — warm for boutiques and food, cooler for tech.
See the Accent Lighting Guide and the CBCP Comparison Chart.
Designing retail lighting
Retail lighting is built in layers: ambient light for general visibility, accent light to draw the eye to displays and feature products, and task light at counters. Contrast is the tool — making key merchandise noticeably brighter than its surroundings is what pulls customers toward it. High CRI (90+) keeps products, especially clothing and food, looking their true color. Color temperature is often matched to the goods: warmer light flatters bakery, wood, and apparel, while cooler light suits electronics and a clean, modern feel. Avoid glare in sightlines and keep the entrance bright to invite people in.