From the warehouse to the shelf: how logistics layout boosts retail sales

The growth of Brazilian retail has been accompanied by new logistical challenges. The pressure for short lead times, product variety and constant availability on the shelves has made warehouse layout a competitive differentiator. According to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), retail trade accumulated growth of 4.7% in 2024, recording the eighth consecutive year of gains. In expanded retail, which includes vehicles, automotive items, construction materials and food and beverage wholesalers, the result was positive at 4.1%, higher than in 2023 (2.3%). Given the segment's potential, operational efficiency has become vital to differentiate in an increasingly competitive market.

For Giordania Tavares, CEO of Rayflex, a national reference in the manufacture of high-speed doors in Brazil and Latin America, the impact of planning is direct on results: "When the layout of a warehouse is well designed, it ensures greater use of space, reduces losses and improves the flow of supply to stores, reflecting on the end customer's shopping experience," she explains.

The layout model adopted varies according to the needs of each operation, but it must meet requirements such as: moving materials, equipment and operators; storing items correctly; stock capacity in terms of size and height for disposing of supplies; optimizing the flow in and out; and cleanliness. Check out some efficient models:

• L-shaped: This type of design is widely used, as the dock areas are at each end of the warehouse, while the stock is concentrated in the middle, where the 90º angle occurs;
• Design in I: In this format, the operation is the simplest, since at each end there are the docks and in the center all the products are stored, allowing the free transit of goods with the movement of employees and machines. It is recommended when space is at a premium and the volume of products is also high;
• U-shaped: due to its simple design and easy replication, it can be used in any type of location. We recommend placing the docks side by side, at the ends of the "U", while the stock of products at the back occupies the largest area of the warehouse, in the semicircle of the letter.

These formats help organize aisles, stocks and loading and unloading areas according to the volume and diversity of goods. "When combined with technological resources, such as stock management systems (WMS), digital addressing and automatic high-speed doors, these models ensure agility, security and traceability throughout the chain. The installation of tailor-made automatic high-speed doors, for example, ensures correct sealing and contributes to an agile flow of people in each environment, respecting the particularities of the location and having a direct influence on the results of logistics operations," says the expert. 

Consumers may not see the warehouse, but they feel its effects: stocked shelves, greater variety and on-time deliveries. "Layout is no longer just an operational detail and has become strategic for retail success. It is directly linked to brand loyalty and competitiveness," concludes Giordania.