Shopfront: meaning, definitions and examples
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shopfront
[ ˈʃɒpfrʌnt ]
commercial property
A shopfront is the exterior part of a retail store, often featuring windows and a door, which is designed to attract customers and display products for sale. It acts as a key marketing tool and aesthetic component of the store. The design of a shopfront can impact the overall appeal and visibility of a business.
Synonyms
business front, retail front, storefront.
Examples of usage
- The shopfront was beautifully decorated for the holidays.
- They installed new signage to improve the visibility of their shopfront.
- The shopfront had large windows that showcased their new collection.
Etymology
The term 'shopfront' combines 'shop' and 'front', where 'shop' ultimately derives from the Old English 'sceoppa', meaning a place for trade. The word evolved over time to signify a place of retail. 'Front' originates from the Latin 'frons', meaning forehead or the foremost part, which transitioned into describing the exterior facade of buildings. As commerce grew, especially during the Industrial Revolution, the concept of the shopfront became more defined, as businesses began to create distinct and attractive exterior displays to lure in customers. Shopfronts have become essential not only for practical purposes but also for branding, as they reflect the identity and value of the store they represent.