1. Project Overview and Brand Philosophy

REMA 1000 represents a distinctive retail typology focused on discount grocery operations with a “no-frills” approach that removes non-essential features to maintain low prices 10. The brand follows a “discount with attitude” methodology where discount means the ability to sell quality products at competitive prices while maintaining operational efficiency 2.

The store design philosophy emphasizes common sense, publicity, and skill, requiring construction approaches that support streamlined operations, cost-effective maintenance, and efficient customer flow while reflecting the brand’s commitment to value-oriented retail 2.

2. Key Design Considerations

a. Sustainability and Environmental Performance

Energy Efficiency Targets
The innovative REMA 1000 store concept aims to achieve a reduction in energy consumption of between 30% and 50%, significantly reducing environmental impact 4. This ambitious target drives many design decisions including:

• High-performance building envelope systems
• Energy-efficient HVAC and refrigeration equipment
• LED lighting systems with smart controls
• Advanced building automation systems

Sustainable Design Integration
REMA 1000 incorporates elements of reduction, reusability, and recyclability throughout the design process, extending beyond packaging to building design and construction materials 3. This includes:

• Sustainable material selection with recycled content
• Waste reduction strategies during construction
• Design for disassembly and future adaptability
• Water conservation systems and stormwater management

b. Operational Efficiency and Process Simplification

Streamlined Operations Focus
REMA 1000’s goal is to simplify processes for office staff and store employees while streamlining store management and onboarding to add more value 1. Store design must support:

• Efficient inventory management and restocking procedures
• Clear sight lines for staff supervision and security
• Logical workflow patterns from receiving to sales floor
• Integrated technology systems for inventory and sales management

Technology Integration
The company has undertaken ambitious technology modernization, including replacing 2,585 outdated payment terminals across 680 stores 8. New store construction must accommodate:

• Modern point-of-sale systems and payment infrastructure
• Integrated inventory management systems
• Customer-facing technology for enhanced shopping experience
• Robust data networks supporting operational systems

c. Store Layout and Spatial Design

Open Space Configuration
Store design typically features one open space concept that maximizes retail floor area while maintaining operational efficiency 5. Key spatial considerations include:

• Flexible retail floor layouts accommodating various product categories
• Efficient customer circulation patterns minimizing congestion
• Strategic placement of high-turnover items and promotional areas
• Clear wayfinding and product category organization

Specialized Areas Integration
Some locations include specialized areas such as farm shops with kitchen facilities, featuring windows that allow visitors to observe food preparation processes 5. These areas require:

• Separate ventilation and utility systems
• Food service equipment and safety compliance
• Visual connections between retail and preparation areas
• Flexible design accommodating various food service concepts

3. Critical Path Method (CPM) Planning

Long Lead Items (10-16 weeks procurement):

• Refrigeration systems: Commercial-grade cooling equipment for perishables
• Point-of-sale technology: Integrated payment and inventory systems
• Energy-efficient HVAC systems: High-performance climate control equipment
• LED lighting systems: Smart lighting with automated controls
• Specialized flooring: Durable, easy-maintenance retail flooring
• Security systems: Surveillance and loss prevention technology

Critical Path Dependencies:

1. Foundation to refrigeration rough-in: Early coordination for heavy equipment
2. Electrical infrastructure to technology systems: Power and data readiness
3. HVAC installation to energy system commissioning: Performance verification
4. Flooring to fixture installation: Sequential retail fit-out
5. Technology integration to staff training: Operational readiness

4. Project Timeline and Critical Path

Phase 1: Planning and Design (4-8 months)

• Site selection and lease negotiation (6-8 weeks)
• Store design and brand standard compliance (8-12 weeks)
• Permit acquisition and regulatory approvals (8-12 weeks)
• Technology system specification (4-6 weeks)

Phase 2: Site Preparation (2-4 weeks)

• Site preparation and utility connections (2-3 weeks)
• Foundation and structural modifications (3-4 weeks)

Phase 3: Building Systems (4-8 weeks)

• Electrical and data infrastructure (3-4 weeks)
• HVAC and refrigeration installation (4-6 weeks)
• Plumbing and utility connections (2-3 weeks)

Phase 4: Interior Fit-Out (4-8 weeks)

• Flooring and interior finishes (3-4 weeks)
• Refrigerated display cases and equipment (3-4 weeks)
• Shelving and retail fixtures (2-3 weeks)

Phase 5: Technology and Final Systems (2-4 weeks)

• Point-of-sale and payment system installation (2-3 weeks)
• Security and surveillance systems (1-2 weeks)
• System testing and staff training (1-2 weeks)

Total Project Duration: 16-32 weeks (varies by size and site conditions)

5. Resource Allocation and Costs

a. Labor Resources

• Project management and coordination: 8-12% of labor costs
• Building systems and refrigeration: 35-40%
• Technology and electrical: 25-30%
• Interior fit-out and fixtures: 20-25%
• Testing and commissioning: 5-8%

b. Total Project Cost Breakdown

Cost ranges vary by location and size, typically $200-$400 per square foot

• Building systems and HVAC: 25-30%
• Refrigeration equipment: 20-25%
• Technology and POS systems: 15-20%
• Interior fixtures and finishes: 15-20%
• Electrical and lighting: 10-15%
• Soft costs (design, permits): 8-12%
• Contingency: 8-10%

6. Additional Considerations

a. Brand Standards and Consistency

Corporate Identity Integration
Store design must reflect REMA 1000’s brand identity while accommodating local market preferences and regulatory requirements. This includes standardized color schemes, signage systems, and customer experience elements that reinforce brand recognition.

b. Growth Strategy Support

Expansion Planning
The main goal of REMA 1000 Denmark and Reitan Distribution is to grow by opening more stores 9. Store design must support:

• Standardized construction processes for rapid deployment
• Modular design elements that can be adapted to various site conditions
• Efficient construction timelines supporting aggressive expansion schedules
• Cost-effective construction methods maintaining quality standards

c. Social Responsibility and Community Integration

Ethical Operations
REMA 1000 emphasizes sustainability, social responsibility, environmental considerations, and making life easier for customers 7. Store construction should reflect these values through:

• Responsible material sourcing and construction practices
• Community-sensitive design that integrates with local context
• Accessibility compliance exceeding minimum requirements
• Long-term operational sustainability reducing community impact

d. Regulatory and Compliance Requirements

• Food safety regulations: Compliance with local health department standards
• Building codes: Commercial retail occupancy requirements
• Energy efficiency standards: Meeting or exceeding local energy codes
• Accessibility compliance: Universal design principles throughout
• Environmental regulations: Waste management and emissions control

REMA 1000 store construction requires careful balance between cost efficiency, operational functionality, and environmental responsibility. Success depends on standardized design approaches that can be efficiently deployed across multiple locations while maintaining the brand’s commitment to value, sustainability, and customer service. The emphasis on energy efficiency and technology integration positions these stores as modern retail environments that support both business objectives and environmental stewardship.