Wire Shelves vs. Flat Shelves

Flat Shelf

When determining which shelving system to go with, the question of whether to utilize wire shelves or standard flat shelves often comes in to play. In this post I'll help answer some common questions about the differences between the two. But, first, think about what you need the shelves for and what kind of merchandise you will be stocking on them.

Wire Shelf

Probably the biggest difference between wire and flat shelves is cost. Wire shelves are almost always less expensive because they require less material and time to manufacture. Though cost savings can be a significant factor in determining which shelving to use in your store, there are a few other things to take into consideration.



1. What kind of merchandise will you be stocking? If you are going to be stocking small or breakable items,   your best bet is to go with flat shelves. Smaller items have a tendency to get stuck between or even fall through the wire shelves. Flat shelves will also help prevent breakable items such as bottles from tipping over. Don't forget to utilize front fences and dividers to keep breakable items from falling.

Sizing, shape and color should all be considered before ordering new shelves

2. Which shelves will fit on your existing gondola shelving? Many store owners make this mistake. They'll order the shelving thinking that it is all universal and when they try to put it on, the shelf is too narrow or too wide and they are stuck with a shelf that doesn't fit. Most shelving companies charge a restocking fee, so make sure that their wire shelving and flat shelving fit on your existing shelving units. Madix and Lozier shelving components are usually interchangeable due to the similar slot patterns on their uprights.

Electro-statically powder coated all-metal gondola

3. How long do I need my shelving to last? You might think the answer to this question is obvious. You might say "I want it to last forever!" Well, I am sorry to tell you that no shelf is going to last forever. Customers can be brutal on merchandising systems. The shelves get stained, collect all kinds of dirt, get scratched, and rust over time. You can help delay this process by buying electro-statically powder coated shelving. The paint-to-metal bond is much greater and the finish will hold up much longer. Remember, most large C-Store and grocery chains renew their store's look and feel about every 7-10 years. Shelving is one of the first things they replace.

PTR for SHOPCO Flat Shelf

4. Make sure you order the correct Price Ticket Rails. Flat and wire shelf's PTR's are often very different and will not fit on all of the same systems. Be sure to ask your shelving dealer which PTR you need for your shelving order.

Thanks for reading!

Pictures courtesy of SHOPCO U.S.A., Inc.