Name: TentBox
Industry: Outdoor Leisure & Retail
Location: Garden centre site, UK
Project Overview
We created two showroom-style container units for TentBox, a UK roof tent brand.
Located at the back of a garden centre, the units were designed to give TentBox a dedicated storefront where customers could view its products in person. They also provide practical storage space behind the customer-facing showroom area.
The Brief
TentBox wanted to create a physical space where its roof tents could be displayed and demonstrated to potential customers.
The units needed to work as both showrooms and storage facilities, allowing the company to present its products professionally while keeping additional equipment and stock close at hand.
Universal Containers was asked to provide units that would:
- Create a customer-facing showroom at the garden centre.
- Provide a clear view into the display area.
- Allow the front of the showroom to be opened when needed.
- Include a separate area for storage.
- Provide a comfortable internal environment for staff and visitors.
- Include the electrical supply needed for lighting and equipment.
- Be suitable for regular commercial use.
The Challenge
The available space needed to perform two different roles without one interfering with the other.
At the front, TentBox needed an open and inviting area where its roof tents could be displayed and customers could explore the products. Behind the showroom, the company still required practical storage for stock, equipment and other items used on site.
The structure would also be used throughout the year, so the interior needed more than the basic steel walls of a standard shipping container. Insulation, internal lining and electrics were required to turn it into a suitable customer-facing space.
Our Solution
The project included a 40ft shipping container conversion fitted with wide bi-fold doors to create the showroom entrance.
When opened, the doors provide a broad and accessible storefront that allows the TentBox products inside to be clearly seen. They can also be closed to secure the unit outside its operating hours.
The conversion included:
- Wide bi-fold showroom doors.
- A dedicated customer-facing display area.
- A separate storage area.
- Insulation throughout the unit.
- Plywood-lined internal walls.
- Electrical fittings for lighting and equipment.
Dividing the container between showroom and storage space allowed TentBox to make practical use of the full 40ft length. Products can be presented at the front of the unit, while stock and equipment can be kept securely behind the scenes.
The plywood lining creates a cleaner and more finished interior than the original corrugated steel walls. It also provides a practical surface for installing fixtures, signage and product displays.
Insulation helps regulate the temperature inside the container, making the showroom more comfortable for customers and staff throughout the year. The electrical installation provides the power needed to light the display area and support its day-to-day use.
The Result
The completed units give TentBox a practical physical presence at the garden centre, combining a customer-facing showroom with useful on-site storage.
The wide bi-fold doors help turn the container into an open storefront during trading hours, while the secure steel structure can be closed when the showroom is not in use.
By combining the two functions within converted shipping containers, TentBox gained dedicated display and storage space without requiring a conventional retail building to be constructed at the site.
Why Use Shipping Containers for Retail Showrooms?
Shipping containers provide a strong and adaptable starting point for pop-up shops, showrooms and other retail spaces.
Doors, windows, display areas, storage rooms, insulation, lining and electrics can all be added to suit the way the business intends to use the unit. Much of the work can also be completed away from the final location before the container is delivered to site.
Their modular format makes it possible to create a visible retail presence in locations where constructing a permanent shop may not be practical. The secure steel structure also allows products and equipment to remain stored inside when the showroom is closed.
Need a Container Showroom?
We design and build shipping container conversions for retailers, leisure brands, visitor attractions and businesses across the UK. Our team can create showrooms with display areas, storage rooms, bi-fold doors, insulation, electrics and finishes suited to your brand.
Contact our team to discuss your showroom project.
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