Feeling squeezed for space in your shop? You’re not alone. According to the Valuation Office Agency (VOA), the average rateable value of retail properties has risen in many UK areas. This puts more pressure on high street businesses to make the best use of their space. The trouble is that relocating is expensive, time-consuming, and often not feasible. So what’s the alternative?
What is a mezzanine in a shop? It’s a raised, freestanding floor built within your existing unit that essentially gives you an extra level using the space above your head. Under current UK planning legislation, most mezzanine floors do not require planning permission. That is, unless they significantly alter the building’s exterior or increase retail floor space by over 200m². So, all you need is a smart, modular design that expands your capabilities without necessitating more space.
At First Floors, we design and install bespoke retail mezzanine floor solutions across the UK. We handle everything, from the first drawings and building rules to a neat installation. This way, you can focus on your business while we build the space for its growth.
Why More Retailers Are Turning to Mezzanine Floors
If your store’s current layout is holding it back, a mezzanine could help you unlock more space without the cost or disruption of moving. Whether you’re short on display room or struggling with storage overflow, building up rather than out lets you make the most of every square metre.
Many retailers use mezzanines to create upper-level product zones, leaving tills or storage areas below. This separation keeps shop floors tidy, improves customer flow, and allows you to adapt to seasonal trends or new product lines.
We’ve also seen clients use mezzanine levels to create staff rooms or training areas and repurpose what was once unused airspace. Plus, because our mezzanines are modular, your layout can evolve as your business does.
For example, the team at First Floors assessed the existing floor space of the Colemans Craft Warehouse in Northamptonshire. An Aladdin’s Cave of craft products, they covered card making, paper craft, jewellery making, haberdashery, home decor, and more. We designed and installed a customised mezzanine floor structure that would provide an additional 2,000 square feet of showroom space.
How Mezzanines Improve Shop Layout & Customer Experience
When floor space is limited, even the best-designed retail setups can feel crowded. Adding a mezzanine lets you rethink your shop’s layout and helps clearly separate different functions.
Many of our clients showcase bestsellers and new seasonal lines on upper mezzanine levels. They place daily-use stock and point-of-sale areas on the ground floor, which improves the customer journey. It helps shoppers explore your space more comfortably and encourages longer dwell times.
A mezzanine can also reflect your brand identity. With thoughtful design choices — like soft lighting, modern signage, or a quiet seating zone — it becomes more than a storage fix. It becomes an extension of your in-store experience. A well-planned mezzanine enhances both function and feel. This is true for homeware retailers, styling lifestyle areas, or footwear brands adding try-on zones.
And because our solutions are designed to minimise disruption, you won’t need to close your doors to improve your layout. Your customers can keep browsing while we efficiently install your new space. Best of all, we’ll do it cleanly, safely, and comply with UK building regulations. Designed in line with Building Regulations Part B, our mezzanine installations cover fire escape access, structural integrity, and safety measures.
From Floor to Future
So, what is a mezzanine in a shop? It’s more than a raised platform. It’s a clever way to boost growth, elevate your layout, and futureproof your retail business without the hassle of moving. With UK retail units under pressure to do more with less, building upwards is a must-have for space-conscious retailers.
At First Floors, we’ve been assisting UK businesses for more than 30 years. We specialise in durable, bespoke mezzanine flooring that helps you make the most of your space. We take care of everything from design and regulations to smooth installation. This way, you can focus on what really matters: your customers and your business. If you’re ready to take your retail space to the next level, we’re here to help.
Call 01789 764172 or contact us online to arrange your free, no-obligation site survey.