Faced with rapidly shifting consumer expectations, mass-market retailers must rethink their points of sale to offer smoother, clearer, and more engaging journeys.
In this context, Intermarché Chalon-sur-Saône initiated a complete transformation of its 7,000 m² hypermarket. The goal was to modernize its image, structure the offering, and enhance all store departments to meet customer needs, drive engagement, and become their preferred shopping destination.
To support this strategic project, HMY was involved from start to finish—from the creative phase with the Consulting & Design team to engineering and final on-site execution—combining retail design, space planning, visual communication, and decor.
A project structured from the retail study phase
Today, a hypermarket is no longer just a place for transactions; it must become a true experience destination, capable of facilitating journeys and creating a lasting connection with customers.
From the outset, HMY conducted an in-depth study to provide a warm and authentic atmosphere, clearly identify specialized departments, and strengthen the clarity of the product range. This process defined a coherent and high-performing store concept designed to meet the current challenges of hypermarkets and supermarkets.
Modernizing image and enhancing range readability
- Deploying a clear and impactful visual identity.
- Modernizing the store’s brand image.
- Improving circulation and shopping comfort.
- Increasing the attractiveness of store departments.
- Optimizing product visibility.
Department organization designed for clarity and appeal
The transformation relied on clear segmentation to facilitate customer wayfinding and improve the understanding of the offer. Each space benefited from a specific design approach:
- Reception
- Produce (Fruits & Vegetables)
- Wine Cellar
- Bakery / Pastry
- Beauty
- Cultural Area
- Home & Multimedia
- Traditional Fresh Counters
- Checkouts…
Fixtures, signage, lighting and decoration were developed as a holistic system, enhancing the appeal of each zone while ensuring global consistency throughout the store.
Visual communication driving the customer journey
In addition to the layout, particular attention was paid to visual communication to naturally guide customers. Various solutions were deployed:
- Signage integrated with specialized structures or textured materials.
- Structuring and legible wayfinding.
- Backlit end-caps to create rhythm and visual impact.
- Wood cladding to add warmth.
- Highlighting of key departments and reinforcement of visual cues.
These elements contribute to creating a smoother, more dynamic and more memorable shopping experience.
Comprehensive 360° project management
This project illustrates HMY’s integrated global approach, combining design, engineering, manufacturing, visual communication, decorative lighting, and installation. This methodology ensures:
- Consistency between the concept and the final execution.
- Technically mastered implementation.
- A seamless experience across all store departments.
Result: A modern, on-trend, and more engaging hypermarket concept
Concrete benefits for Intermarché Chalon-sur-Saône:
- Better spatial readability.
- A smoother customer journey.
- Attractive and structured departments.
- A modernized shopping experience.
This achievement confirms the role of retail design and store layout as major drivers of performance and customer experience in mass retail.
