How to Set Up RGB Animated Lighting for a Retail Store

RGB lighting is the future of light displays. This technology comprises bulbs emitting light diodes for Red, Green, and Blue. The lights can produce any hue imaginable using these three colors.

The lighting provides an impressive effect, making it desirable in commercial spaces. If you are wondering how to set up RGB animated lighting in your retail store- you’ve come to the right place.

Before moving forward, let’s ensure we fully grasp RGB lighting and what it is. 

RGB lighting consists of light bulbs containing red, green, and blue components. Each can be individually controlled and adjusted to emit dynamic color changes and animated effects. They are often used in home decor, gaming setups, stage lighting, and holiday decorations.

In terms of decorations, the possibilities are endless. RGB animated lighting display ideas include trees, snowflakes, wall washers, spheres, tubes, and any lighting element.

RGB lighting offers several benefits that can be especially useful in a retail location. Here are some to consider.

• Impressive Decorations: With the option to produce a wide range of colors, patterns, and animations, you can create an impressive display that outshines your competition, ensuring optimal brand recognition and foot traffic.
• Energy Efficiency: As LED lights, RGB lighting offers optimal energy efficiency. It will lower your carbon footprint and reduce the use of natural resources. The lights will also save you money on your electricity bill.
• Longevity and Durability: LED lights also stand out for their longevity. As a result, you won’t need to purchase new display lights each year. Yet, you can create a unique display every season.

RGB lights are a no-brainer, but where should you place them? Here are a few suggestions.

Entryways are the ideal place for RGB lights. They produce an exciting atmosphere for shoppers who enter your store, inspiring them to stay inside to shop and return in the future. 

Do you want to highlight a new or sold product? RBG lights are the way to do it. String lights around your display or illuminate them with accent lighting to ensure they aren’t overlooked.

RBG lights are said to be emotionally therapeutic. Therefore, they will produce a relaxing atmosphere throughout your store. They can be especially helpful near checkout zones, where people may become anxious and impatient if lines are long.

You must also consider colors and textures for RGB lighting. The information in this section will guide you in the right direction.

With so many color options, it’s hard to decide on the ones that are best for your retail store. Here are some factors to consider:

• Company Colors: Many brands have company colors that align with their identities. These colors could help you determine which to incorporate in your RGB display.
• Existing Colors: You may also choose colors based on the colors in your stores and displays. For example, if your store is blue, you may select blue lights or complement the blue with colors like red and yellow. If you use RGB lights to highlight specific products, consider using colors that match the products.

You can also use your RGB lighting to enhance textures and vice versa. Here are some examples.

• Glass and Metal: Glass and metal are reflective. With the proper positioning, they will reflect your lights, making them look more impressive.
• Rough Surfaces: When RGB light reflects against rough surfaces like wood and woven textiles, it brings out their depth-enhancing color reflections.
• Smooth Surfaces: Smooth surfaces will be somewhat reflective and can enhance the light’s colors.

Are you using RGB lights to showcase new arrivals, sales products, or any other product you want to push? Here are some ways to ensure customers don’t pass them by:

• Surround Product Displays: If your display is set up inside a case, you can surround the case with a light strand, creating a unique effect that will impact visitors.
• Spotlights: RGB lights can also act as spotlights that you can shine on individual products and displays. Spotlights work exceptionally well against contrasting backgrounds.

If you are wondering how to setup RGB animated lighting for a retail store, here’s an easy method to follow:

You will need:

• RGB Light Strip
• Power supply
• RGB Strip Controller
• Clean Cloth
• Rubbing Alcohol
• Pen & Paper

1. Choose the Right Power Supply: Choose your power supply based on the maximum power your LED strip consumes. Using multiple LED strips requires a more powerful supply per the total output.
2. Choose Your Controller: Most strips come with a basic controller that features a remote that allows you to switch between different colors. You may also choose a Smart controller with Alexa capabilities.
3. Connect the Strip to the Controller: Connect the strip to the Controller, ensuring the arrows align. Then, connect the power supply to the controller. Finally, connect the power supply to the AC supply temporarily through a plug or permanently through a switch.
4. Installation: Wipe down the surface to which you plan to stick your lights with rubbing alcohol to ensure they stick. Almost all lights come with an adhesive that makes it easy to stick lights to the chosen surface.
5. Test the Lights: Test the lights to ensure they work. If not, you may troubleshoot common problems. For example, ensure the right colors are attached to the right terminals. Check the cables to ensure they aren’t installed upside down. Your power supply should also be hooked up properly.

RGB lights are an innovative light display element. Installing RGB animated lighting is fairly easy. However, you may face issues if you need to solder strips together to decorate larger spaces. You must also ensure you choose the right strips.

Dekra Lite can help you through the process. We provide products and installation. Our team will ensure your RGB lights look their best. 

Contact us to ensure your installation impresses your retail customers. 

The color you choose depends on your brand and the existing colors in your store. Choose colors that best express your brand identity and match your store’s aesthetics. You may also opt for colors that match the products you are currently pushing.

The four types of lights commonly used in retail stores include:

• Accent Lighting: Accent lighting is commonly used to draw attention to specific areas and products.
• Task Lighting: Task lighting may be added to cash register areas, workspaces, or anywhere workers may require focused light to see what they are doing.
• Ambient Lighting: This is the store’s primary source of lighting. It provides light for customers and employees to see what they are doing and compare products.
• Decorative Lighting: Decorative lighting enhances the store's aesthetics and adds charm. Examples include chandeliers, string lights, and lanterns.

RGB lights can substitute decorative and accent lighting. 

The installation cost varies depending on the size and complexity of the display. For example, a straightforward layout in a small shop will cost more than a complex layout in a larger space. It typically costs between $5 and $12 per square foot.

RGB lighting typically lasts around 50,000 hours, up to 6 years if used continuously. 

No, you don’t need a professional to install RGB Lighting for your store. However, if you are not experienced with lighting installation, you may be better off hiring a service. They will ensure safety and produce impressive results.