Using Wood for Retail Display

That last little wooden counter top display stand that I posted up got me thinking about the use of timber in creating rustic-type retail displays that have the effect of providing a little retail display time travel. Back to a time when display stands were, simple, functional and dare I say it... honest. True this style of shop interior is only suited to a very small niche of retail businesses, but IMHO they are also just nice to look at. Here's a good example of a fit out for a wine merchant that uses a lot of wood for their displays and fixtures:

A very suitable application in that wine is an age old product that is produced, or at least farmed, in rural areas.

On a smaller scale this display stand below is a demonstration of wood being used appropriately for a fine food display, again invoking that natural, rustic, farm-style feel that lends itself particularly well to the display of consumables such as food and wine:

This same tactic that is being used more and more by large supermarkets and chains to counter act the disconnect between people and their food and the faceless-ness of large retail establishments. Wooden retail displays are used to create a wholesome feel that in an age where people again long to feel connected with the source of their food. Some might call it smart marketing, while some may be a little more cynical - I'll let you be the judge.