Guides
Fitting out a retail stockroom
The back-of-house is where stock arrives, staff take breaks and the shop is run from. It deserves planning, not leftovers.
The front of a shop is designed carefully; the stockroom often gets whatever space is left. Yet it is where deliveries are received, stock is stored and sorted, staff change and rest, and the safe and electrical equipment may be. A poorly planned back room slows restocking and makes the shop floor messier.
Element pages explain one part of a larger renovation in detail: what is being chosen, what the installation involves, and where the cost and time usually sit.
In malls, deliveries often come through service corridors at set times, and the stockroom door position follows the building’s back-of-house routes. Shelving, a sorting area, staff lockers and a small rest area can usually fit even in a compact space if they are planned rather than added piece by piece.
What matters most on this page
Plan the delivery route
From the service corridor or loading point to the stock shelving and then the shop floor.
Shelving to the stock
Heights and depths suited to cartons and garments, with safe access to upper levels.
A place for staff
Lockers, a seat and somewhere to make a drink make long shifts manageable.
Back-of-house elements
Storage systems
Adjustable shelving, garment rails or mobile racking depending on stock type.
Staff area
Lockers, a small table, and where permitted a sink and kettle point.
Security
Controlled door, safe location and any CCTV equipment, planned with power and data.
Before the stockroom is designed
Check the building’s delivery rules
Times, routes and any trolley or dock requirements.
Estimate stock volume
Peak season stock sets the shelving needed.
List back-of-house equipment
Electrical board, comms, safe and any cooling for stock.
Questions we are often asked
How much of the unit should be stockroom?
It depends on the product and delivery frequency. Frequent deliveries need less storage than seasonal bulk stock.
Can the stockroom have a mezzanine?
Sometimes, if the ceiling height and the landlord allow it. It is a structural addition that needs approval.
Does the stockroom need cooling?
Usually yes, for staff comfort and for stock that is sensitive to heat.
Related guides
- Fit out reinstatementThe next component to decide in the same room.
- Office refurbishment while occupiedThe next component to decide in the same room.
- Gypsum vs grid ceilings for officesA choice that shapes how this element is built.
- Commercial fit out costHow this element sits in the overall budget.
Start from commercial fit-out, browse the guides, or see all renovation and fit-out services. We work on homes and commercial premises across Dubai.
Tell us about the property
Tell us which room, which element and what is being replaced. We will confirm the measurements and the sequence that follows.
Phone
+971 58 846 4007Good for talking a job through and arranging a visit.
WhatsApp
Send a messageUseful for photographs, floor plans and measurements.
Next step
Plan the back-of-house properly
Tell us your stock type and delivery pattern. We will plan shelving, staff space and security for the back room.