ANALYSIS: OUTDOOR LIVING Home Essentials


April 2025 ertonline.co.uk


whereas once upon a time path lights or spike lights were the only options widely available, today’s product ranges include wall-mounted lights, decorative string lights and festoons and security focused motion-sensor lights. Retailers should make the most of the variety


Why solar 32


lighting should be a key part of your outdoor lighting range


Versatile solar powered lighting is a must-have for modern gardens and outdoor spaces, and Rachel Morris, Marketing Manager at 4lite, explains what retailers need to know about product performance, range selection and merchandising to maximise sales in-store and online. Having come a long way since the flickering lamps that were first commercially available towards the end of the 20th century, today’s solar lighting solutions are stylish, reliable and powerful, making them a smart option for all types of outdoor settings. Improvements in solar technology, including


more efficient solar panels, advances in LED technology and improved battery storage capabilities have all enhanced the appeal and effectiveness of modern solar lights, delivering stronger, longer-lasting light output that is reliable even in the UK’s less predictable climate. Ticking a lot of boxes for today’s energy conscious consumers, one of solar lighting’s biggest selling points is its eco-credibility. During the day, solar powered lighting soaks up the sun’s rays to charge its batteries before unleashing the energy at night. And improvements in battery technology mean the batteries last much longer than they would have


done just a few years ago, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability. The batteries rarely need to be changed are also recyclable when they do reach the end of their working lives.


DIY installation


Solar lighting also has the added appeal of quick, easy and cost-effective installation as there is no need for disruptive outdoor cabling or electrical wiring. Consumers can simply do it themselves in just a few minutes. Naturally, being powered by the sun, another major draw of solar lighting is the fact that it is free to operate and doesn’t add to home or building running costs. This makes it especially appealing in times of rising energy prices, as households and businesses alike look for long-term, low- maintenance solutions. In recent years manufacturers have expanded their ranges of solar powered lighting to give consumers more choice and flexibility;


on offer and ensure the solar ranges they curate offer a mix of core functional products and decorative impulse buys. Products like solar wall lights and motion-sensor security lights meet an obvious, practical need, while string lights and lanterns are perfect for adding decoration or ambience in gardens, patios, balconies and outdoor entertaining spaces. Whilst there is an element of seasonal demand to all outdoor lighting, solar lighting is becoming increasingly popular year- round, and retailers should focus on effective merchandising and positioning to drive sales outside of peak Summer months. Messaging is also hugely important with the


environmental and cost-effective angles proving to be the biggest draw. Clear labelling, POS messaging and online descriptions that highlight these benefits will help to attract customers and ensure solar products stand out.


For online sales, it goes without saying that high quality photography and video are essential so it is imperative that you work with manufacturers who can provide strong visual assets. Customers will want to see what the product looks like both during the day and lit up at night.


When it comes to outdoor lighting, retailers should remember that solar is no longer a novelty or add-on – it’s a reliable, in-demand product category. By stocking a well-rounded range, using great merchandising, and highlighting the benefits clearly, strong sales can be achieved with minimal hassle.


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