The two gondola configurations that accommodate most retail requirements are single-sided and double-sided. The single-sided configuration is designed to be placed against a wall as a support to the rear of the gondola. The double-sided configuration would normally be located in the middle of a sales floor, thus dividing the store into sections appropriate for the varieties of merchandise.
Gondolas are available in 3-foot and 4-foot widths with a 24-inch width and a 30-inch width available by special order. The two nacelle configurations are built with identical parts that make the single-sided and double-sided interchangeable. Heights are available starting at 36 inches and can be up to 96 inches and up. Depths start at 8 inches and can be up to 30 inches.
An end cap is available for the end of a gondola aisle to provide an attractive and useful display. The end cap is best configured with a single-sided wall section in a double-back configuration. This configuration can easily slide against any existing double-sided gondola aisle and will provide the same strength and stability that standard gondola racks are known for.
Additionally, versatile pieces known as end frames are also available. End frame mounts to existing nacelle aisle with mounting hardware. The end frame cannot support as much weight on the top shelves as standard gondolas because the end frame does not have base shoes directly attached to it.
The top three manufacturers of gondola shelving in the US are Lozier, Madix and Streeter. The Lozier and Madix are built with the same basic concept and most of the components are interchangeable. The top shelves for Madix and Lozier are compatible with either manufacturer, although they will not line up next to each other in the same way. To avoid a mismatch, the same shelf could easily be used in a single row to create a uniform look. Streeter brand gondolas are self-designed and are not interchangeable with Madix and Lozier. All three are very well made.
There are many accessories available for gondola shelving such as corner gondolas that will extend a single-sided gondola aisle into an inside or outside corner or even in a circular pattern. Accessories for many specialty items such as wine, candy, potato chips, wide and electrical items, musical instruments, nuts, bolts and nails, clothes hangers, wire baskets, baked goods, available light canopy systems, containers, shelf fences and spacers. In addition, many different styles of top shelves and backboards are also available.
Add all of this, and gondola shelf configurations and accessories offer store owners and managers convenience, flexibility and variety in any retail setting.