Did you know that the right lighting can significantly impact your shopping experience? Imagine walking into a well-lit supermarket with vibrant displays and aisles that invite you to explore. Supermarket lighting plays a crucial role in creating an appealing and comfortable environment for shoppers. In this ultimate guide, we will explore the importance of supermarket lighting, the different types of lighting options available, how to choose the right lighting for your supermarket, and creative ideas to enhance the overall lighting experience.
What Is Supermarket Lighting?
Supermarket lighting refers to the strategic placement and design of lighting fixtures within a supermarket to illuminate the space effectively. It goes beyond just providing visibility; it aims to create a visually appealing and engaging atmosphere for shoppers. Proper supermarket lighting enhances the visibility of products, highlights key areas, and influences customer behavior and purchasing decisions. Studies have shown that well-designed lighting can increase sales and customer satisfaction.

Why is Supermarket Lighting Important?
In the competitive and customer-oriented 21st century, supermarkets are facing the challenge of online shopping and are striving to provide a polished and convenient shopping experience to attract customers and lower operating costs to stay competitive. Shopping is a multisensory experience, and lighting plays a significant role in enhancing the overall shopping experience. In fact, 80 percent of all sensory impressions come through our eyes. Studies have shown that effective supermarket lighting can increase sales by up to 40%.
Supermarket lighting is important for several reasons:
Product Visibility: Adequate lighting ensures that products are well-lit and easily visible to customers. Bright and well-balanced lighting enhances the appearance of products, making them more attractive and enticing. It allows customers to see the details, colors, and quality of the items, which can influence their purchasing decisions.
Mood and Atmosphere: Lighting sets the mood and atmosphere in a supermarket. The right lighting design creates a welcoming and pleasant environment, making customers feel comfortable and encouraging them to spend more time in the store. It can create a positive impression of the supermarket and enhance the overall shopping experience.
Safety and Navigation: Proper lighting ensures a safe shopping environment by reducing shadows and improving visibility. Well-lit areas help customers navigate through aisles, read labels, and find their desired products easily. It also minimizes the risk of accidents and improves overall customer satisfaction.
Promotions and Visual Merchandising: Lighting plays a crucial role in highlighting promotions, displays, and featured products. Strategic lighting placement draws attention to specific areas, encouraging customers to explore and engage with promotional offers. It enhances the visual merchandising efforts and helps drive sales.
Energy Efficiency: With the advancement of lighting technologies, supermarkets can adopt energy-efficient lighting solutions such as LED. LED lighting consumes less energy, lasts longer, and produces less heat compared to traditional lighting options. This helps supermarkets reduce their energy consumption, lower operating costs, and contribute to sustainability efforts.
Overall, supermarket lighting is important as it impacts product visibility, creates a welcoming atmosphere, ensures safety, facilitates promotions, and can contribute to energy efficiency. By carefully considering and implementing the right lighting strategies, supermarkets can enhance the shopping experience, attract customers, and improve their overall performance.

What Are the Main Types of Supermarket Lighting?
There are several main types of lighting commonly used in supermarkets. Here are some of the most prevalent ones:
General or Ambient Lighting:
This is the overall lighting that provides a uniform level of illumination throughout the supermarket. It ensures that the space is well-lit and creates a comfortable environment for customers to navigate and browse products. Some common fixtures include: ceiling mounted fixtures such as recessed LED downlights, surface-mounted fixtures or pendant lights, LED high bay lights, LED T5/T8 tube lights, LED batten lights, LED Panels, indirect lighting such as cove lighting or LED wall washers.

Accent Lighting:
Accent lighting is used to highlight specific areas or products within the supermarket. It draws attention to displays, promotional areas, or featured products, creating visual interest and attracting customers’ attention. Some common fixtures include: LED track light, recessed spotlight such as gimbal LED downlight, display lighting such as miniature spotlights, strip lights.

Task Lighting:
Task lighting is focused lighting used in specific areas where tasks are performed, such as checkout counters, deli counters, or produce sections. It provides bright and localized illumination to facilitate specific tasks, ensuring visibility and efficiency. Some common fixtures include:
- Under Cabinet Lighting: These fixtures are installed underneath cabinets or shelves to provide localized lighting for tasks such as food preparation or reading labels.
- Pendant Lights: Pendant lights are suspended from the ceiling and can be used to provide focused lighting for specific work areas, such as checkout counters or service stations.
- Desk Lamps or Task Lights: In certain areas, desk lamps or task lights with adjustable arms or goosenecks may be used to provide targeted illumination for specific tasks.

Refrigerated and Freezer Case Lighting:
These are specialized lighting fixtures designed for refrigerated and freezer cases. They provide adequate illumination while minimizing heat output, helping to maintain product freshness and energy efficiency. Since these lighting fixtures are installed in cold and often humid environments, they need to be designed to withstand moisture and condensation.
Some common fixtures include: Waterproof LED Strip Lights and Low-Profile waterproof LED Fixtures.

Aisle Lighting:
Aisle lighting is installed along the aisles of the supermarket to guide customers and provide illumination for the products on display. It ensures that products are well-lit, making them easily visible and accessible to shoppers.
Some common fixtures include: Linear LED fixtures, such as recessed or surface-mounted luminaires, are often used to provide even illumination along the aisles. They offer energy efficiency and can be seamlessly integrated into the store’s design.

Decorative Lighting:
Decorative lighting is used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the supermarket. It includes fixtures such as chandeliers, pendant lights, or decorative wall sconces, which add style and ambiance to specific areas like entranceways or seating areas.
Emergency lighting:
Emergency lighting is a critical aspect of supermarket safety and ensures the well-being of customers and staff during unexpected situations. It consists of lighting fixtures that activate automatically in the event of a power failure or emergency, providing illumination and guidance to evacuate the premises safely. Emergency lighting includes exit signs, emergency exit pathway lighting, and illuminated safety signs that clearly indicate the escape routes and emergency exits. These lights are designed to be highly visible, even in low-light or smoky conditions, helping individuals navigate through the supermarket and reach the designated safe areas. Emergency lighting plays a vital role in emergency preparedness and contributes to the overall safety and security of the supermarket.
These are the main types of lighting used in supermarkets, and a combination of these types is often employed to create a well-lit, visually appealing, and functional shopping environment.
Lighting Different Parts of the Supermarket
To create an optimal shopping experience, it’s essential to consider the specific lighting needs of different areas within the supermarket. Shelving and displays require well-directed and evenly distributed light to highlight products effectively. Produce sections benefit from lighting that enhances the freshness and natural colors of fruits and vegetables. Checkout areas should have sufficient lighting for transaction accuracy and customer comfort. Aisle lighting plays a crucial role in guiding shoppers and creating a safe and inviting pathway throughout the store.
In the following discussion, we will explore the fundamental lighting requirements for different sections of a supermarket. Additionally, we have provided a concise table summarizing the recommended color temperatures and Color Rendering Index (CRI) for each area.
Fruits and Vegetables: For the fruits and vegetables section, it is essential to use warm lighting with a high CRI of 90 or above. This helps showcase the natural colors and freshness of the produce. A recommended color temperature of around 3000K-4000K creates a vibrant appearance, while illuminance levels of 1500-2000 lux ensure clear visibility.

Fish, Seafood, and Poultry: To highlight the natural colors of fish, seafood, and poultry, it is advisable to use cool, white lighting with a CRI of 80 or higher. A color temperature of 4500K-5000K enhances the freshness and cleanliness of the products, while illuminance levels of 1500-2000 lux provide ample visibility to showcase the textures and details.
Meat: The meat section benefits from balanced lighting with a CRI of 80 or higher to emphasize the natural color and texture of the meat. A recommended color temperature of 2700K-3500K enhances the richness and succulence of the products, while illuminance levels of 1500-2000 lux ensure optimal visibility and highlight the marbling and quality.

Cheese, Bread, and Pastries: To create an inviting atmosphere in the cheese, bread, and pastries section, warm and inviting lighting with a CRI of 80 or higher is recommended. A color temperature of 2500K-3000K adds to the cozy ambiance, and illuminance levels of 1500-2000 lux ensure the products are well-illuminated and visually appealing.

Wine and Liquor: In the wine and liquor section, sophisticated lighting with a CRI of 80 or higher is preferred to showcase the labels and packaging of the products. A recommended color temperature of 3000K-4000K creates an elegant and upscale ambiance, while illuminance levels of 300~500 lux provide sufficient visibility without overpowering the atmosphere.Low wattage lamp sources are optimal to avoid glare on wine bottles.

Kitchen: For the kitchen area, bright and functional lighting with a CRI of 80 or higher is essential for proper visibility during food preparation. A color temperature of 4000K-5000K ensures a clean and well-lit environment, while illuminance levels of 500-750 lux (general kitchen areas) and 1000-1500 lux (task areas) provide sufficient lighting for various activities.

Check out and Cashier: At the checkout and cashier counters, well-distributed and glare-free lighting is crucial for a comfortable and efficient experience. A color temperature of 3000K-4000K ensures clear visibility and accurate color recognition, while illuminance levels of 500-750 lux at the counters and surrounding areas provide sufficient visibility for transactions.

Skincare and Cosmetics: The skincare and cosmetics section benefits from bright and natural lighting with a CRI of 95 or higher to accurately represent skin tones and product colors. A recommended color temperature of 3000K-4000K provides a true representation of colors and textures, while illuminance levels of 750-1000 lux ensure proper visibility for customers to examine products in detail.

Appliances and Crockery: For appliances and crockery, even and neutral lighting with a CRI of 80 or higher is recommended to showcase the features and finishes. A color temperature of around 4000K-4500K creates a clean and modern look, while illuminance levels of 750-1000 lux ensure clear visibility and highlight the details of the products.
Storage:
The lighting requirements for storage areas may vary depending on the specific needs and products stored. However, it is crucial to have adequate and evenly distributed lighting to ensure visibility and safety in these areas. The recommended color temperature and illuminance levels may differ based on factors such as the type of storage (ambient, cold storage, etc.) and the specific requirements of the stored products.
Grocery: In the grocery aisles, balanced and uniform lighting is essential to facilitate clear visibility and easy product identification. A recommended color temperature of 3500K-4000K creates a neutral and pleasant shopping experience. The illuminance levels may vary depending on the specific aisle, but a target range of 500-750 lux is generally sufficient for general grocery aisles, while higher levels of 1000-1500 lux may be required for specific product displays to attract attention and enhance visibility.

In order to properly illuminate the grocery section, it is important to consider both vertical and horizontal lighting requirements. Since items are typically stacked vertically on tall shelves in the grocery section, a 2:1 vertical to horizontal illumination ratio is recommended. This means that if the light source provides 500 lux of illuminance on the flat floors, the vertical luminance should be 1000 lux or higher to ensure adequate lighting for the products on the shelves. This helps to ensure that the products are well-lit and easily visible to customers as they browse the aisles.
Here is a brief table summarizing the recommended color temperatures, illuminance levels and recommended Color Rendering Index for each supermarket section:
Supermarket Section | Color Temperature (K) | Illuminance Levels (lux) | Recommended CRI |
---|---|---|---|
Fruits and Vegetables | 3000-4000 | 1500-2000 | >90 |
Fish, Seafood, and Poultry | 4500-5000 | 1500-2000 | >80 |
Red Meat | 2700-3500 | 1500-2000 | >80 |
Cheese, Bread, and Pastries | 2500-3000 | 1500-2000 | >80 |
Wine and Liquor | 3000-4000 | 300-500 | >80 |
Kitchen | 4000-5000 | 500-750 lux (general kitchen areas) | |
1000-1500 lux (task areas) | >80 | ||
Check out and Cashier | 3000-4000 | 500-750 | >80 |
Skincare and Cosmetics | 3000-4000 | 750-1000 | >95 |
Appliances and Crockery | 4000-4500 | 750-1000 | >80 |
Storage | Varies | Varies | Varies |
Grocery | 3500-4000 | 500-750 (general aisles) | |
1000-1500 (product displays) | >80 |
Please note that these are general recommendations for lighting different sections of a supermarket. The actual lighting requirements may vary based on factors such as the supermarket’s layout, target audience, branding, and specific product displays. Consulting with lighting experts or designers is advisable to create a tailored lighting plan that meets the supermarket’s unique needs and enhances the overall shopping experience.
How to Choose Supermarket Lighting?
Selecting the right lighting for your supermarket can be a daunting task. It’s crucial to consider factors such as energy efficiency, maintenance requirements, aesthetics, and compliance with regulations. When choosing lighting fixtures, pay attention to the color rendering index (CRI) and correlated color temperature (CCT). A high CRI ensures accurate color representation of products, while the appropriate CCT creates the desired ambiance. Additionally, consider the long-term cost savings and return on investment (ROI) associated with energy-efficient lighting solutions.
Why Choose LED Light Fixtures In Supermarket Lighting?
LED technology is crucial in supermarket lighting due to its numerous advantages. It offers low heat emission, making it ideal for preserving heat-sensitive products. LEDs are cost-effective, with higher upfront costs offset by long-term savings and reduced maintenance. They are energy-efficient, resulting in significant energy savings and lower air conditioning bills. Government rebate programs further incentivize the transition to LED lighting. Additionally, LED lights come in a wide variety of colors, designs, temperatures, and CRI values, allowing for creative and unique supermarket themes. An ENERGY STAR study revealed that switching to LED lighting led to a significant 19% increase in sales for U.S. grocers. Overall, LEDs enhance lighting efficiency, reduce costs, and provide versatility, making them essential for effective supermarket lighting.
Factors to Consider While Choosing Lighting for Supermarkets
When choosing lighting for supermarkets, there are several important factors to consider.
Budget:
Budget is a crucial factor that significantly influences the scope and quality of a lighting project. The available budget sets the parameters for selecting lighting fixtures, control systems, and installation services. It determines the extent to which advanced lighting technologies and design elements can be incorporated into the supermarket’s lighting system.
While a well-executed project enhances the shopping experience and energy efficiency, it’s important to find a balance between budget constraints and desired outcomes. Working with lighting professionals and considering factors like energy efficiency and long-term savings can help maximize the value of the investment. Prioritizing essential lighting needs and exploring cost-effective options ensures a successful project that meets financial and performance goals.
Lighting controls:
Lighting controls offer flexibility by allowing adjustments to brightness levels and creating different lighting scenes for specific areas or activities.
With lighting systems that have dimming capabilities and zoning options, you can easily modify the lighting levels based on different areas, time of day, or specific merchandising needs. This allows for a customizable and adaptable lighting environment in your supermarket.
By utilizing LED-based smart lighting systems, you can further enhance the versatility of your lighting design. These advanced systems allow you to adjust not only the intensity of the light but also the color, enabling you to create captivating atmospheres that attract customers and encourage them to stay longer.
Additionally, smart lighting systems can be programmed to automatically control and monitor the lighting levels, saving energy and providing cost savings. Energy savings of up to 50% are achievable through automated dimming when lights are not needed.
You can even use them as part of your marketing strategy by spotlighting specific products or promotions at different times, adding an extra layer of visual appeal to your supermarket.
Fixtures Layout:
Carefully plan the layout of lighting fixtures to achieve uniform illumination across the supermarket. Avoid dark spots or areas with excessive glare by strategically placing fixtures to provide even lighting distribution throughout the store.
Here is an example of good aisle lighting. The arrangement of aisle luminaires should be carefully considered to provide effective lighting for both the corridors and the shelves. Luminaires should be positioned in a way that allows for illuminating the corridors while also providing vertical lighting on the shelves.
To achieve this, the luminaires should be placed parallel to the shelves and aisles. This arrangement ensures that the light spreads evenly across the shelves, allowing products to be well-illuminated and easily visible to customers. Placing luminaires on top of shelves should be avoided as it may lead to blocked light and shadows, resulting in wasted light and energy.
Multiple Lighting Layers:
Implement multiple layers of lighting to enhance the overall visual appeal of the supermarket.
General lighting provides overall illumination for easy and safe movement throughout the supermarket. It should meet the recommended lighting requirements discussed earlier in the table, ensuring sufficient brightness and visibility across the entire space.
Accent lighting is employed to highlight specific features or merchandise within the supermarket. By using focused light sources such as spotlights or track lighting, accent lighting draws attention to particular products, displays, or promotional areas.
Task lighting is essential for areas where specific tasks are performed, such as cash counters or food/meat sections. These areas require targeted and brighter lighting to facilitate efficient and accurate work for both employees and customers. Task lighting should be designed to provide a 3:1 brightness ratio compared to the general lighting level. This ensures that individuals can easily read labels, tags, register screens, and pin pads, enhancing the overall functionality and productivity of these work areas.
Decorative lighting serves both functional and aesthetic purposes in a supermarket.It contributes to the overall ambiance and style of the store, making it visually appealing and inviting. Chandeliers, pendant lights, wall sconces, or unique fixtures can be used to create a distinctive atmosphere in certain sections of the supermarket. Decorative lighting also helps to define the store’s brand and create a memorable shopping experience for customers.

By incorporating these four lighting layers, a supermarket can achieve a well-rounded and effective lighting design that enhances the shopping experience, promotes products, ensures functional workspaces, and creates an inviting and visually appealing atmosphere.
Brightness, CCT And CRI
Designing supermarket lighting requires a comprehensive consideration of brightness, color temperature (CCT), and color rendering (CRI). The brightness level should be sufficient for clear visibility and easy navigation throughout the store. Selecting the appropriate CCT helps create the desired ambiance, with cooler temperatures offering a bright and energetic atmosphere, while warmer temperatures provide a cozy feel. It is important to choose lighting fixtures with a high CRI(>80) to accurately represent the true colors of products, making them appear vivid and appealing to customers. By balancing these factors, the supermarket lighting design can enhance the overall shopping experience.
High Contrast
High contrasts play a significant role in supermarket lighting design. By creating a stark contrast between the products and their surroundings, it enhances visibility and draws attention to specific items. This can be achieved by strategically positioning light fixtures to highlight certain areas or using different lighting intensities to create variations in brightness. High contrasts not only make the products stand out but also contribute to a visually engaging and dynamic shopping environment.
Higher contrast ratios in supermarket lighting design can lead to increased impulse buying. By incorporating variations in brightness, colors, and temperatures, contrasts can be created between different areas of the store. For instance, highlighting specific product stands with bright spotlights can draw customers’ attention away from low-brightness areas. A recommended contrast ratio of 30:1 for accent lighting to general lighting can create an effective focal point. Additionally, a 3:1 ratio for accent lighting to general lighting is recommended for signs, enhancing visibility and readability. These contrast techniques help attract customers and enhance their shopping experience.
Energy Efficiency:
Reducing energy costs is a crucial consideration for supermarkets. With round-the-clock operation, energy bills can significantly impact profits.
Choose energy-efficient LED fixtures that emit less heat and consume up to 65% less energy compared to traditional lights. This not only saves costs but also helps protect perishable items in your store. LED lighting not only provides significant energy savings but also offers long lifespans and lower maintenance requirements compared to traditional lighting options.
Ideas for Supermarket Lighting
To stand out from the competition and create a unique shopping experience, consider implementing creative lighting ideas in your supermarket.
- Accent Lighting: By using accent lighting, you can direct focus and draw attention to specific areas or products in your supermarket. This can be achieved through the use of spotlights, track lighting, or adjustable fixtures. Accent lighting helps create visual interest and highlights key elements, such as special promotions, displays, or high-value items.
- Dynamic Lighting: Incorporating dynamic lighting solutions allows you to adjust the color and intensity of the light throughout the day. Mimicking natural lighting variations, such as warmer tones in the morning and cooler tones in the evening, can create a more dynamic and engaging shopping environment. This can be achieved through the use of smart lighting systems or color-changing LED lights.
- Lighting in Signage and Displays: Integrating lighting into your signage and displays can make them more visually appealing and attention-grabbing. This can be done by using backlighting, LED strips, or spotlights to illuminate important information or highlight specific products. Lighting in signage and displays can enhance visibility, improve readability, and create a sense of excitement around promotions or special offers.
- Creating Depth and Dimension: In larger supermarket spaces, using lighting to create depth and dimension can enhance the overall visual impact. This can be achieved by combining different lighting techniques, such as uplighting and downlighting, to highlight architectural features, create interesting patterns of light and shadow, and add a sense of depth to the space. This technique can make the supermarket more visually appealing and immersive for customers.
- Interactive Lighting: Incorporate interactive lighting elements to engage customers and make their shopping experience more interactive and enjoyable. This can include touch-sensitive lighting panels, motion-activated lighting effects, or color-changing lights controlled by customers. Interactive lighting adds an element of fun and interactivity, leaving a lasting impression on shoppers.
- Seasonal Lighting Themes: Create a festive atmosphere by incorporating seasonal lighting themes throughout the year. For example, during holidays like Christmas, you can use decorative lighting elements such as string lights, lighted ornaments, or themed light displays. This adds a touch of celebration and helps shoppers get into the holiday spirit.
- Illuminated Pathways: Guide customers through your supermarket by illuminating pathways and walkways with subtle lighting. This can be achieved through the use of recessed floor lights, LED strips along the floor, or pathway lighting fixtures. Illuminated pathways not only enhance safety but also create a visually appealing and intuitive flow within the store.
- Artistic Lighting Installations: Install unique and eye-catching lighting installations as artistic focal points within your supermarket. This could be a sculptural light fixture, a custom-designed chandelier, or a lighting installation that complements your brand identity. Artistic lighting installations add a touch of elegance and create a memorable visual impact.
- Mood Lighting Zones: Create different mood lighting zones within your supermarket to cater to different sections or product categories. For example, you can use warm and cozy lighting in the bakery section to evoke a sense of comfort, while using brighter and cooler lighting in the fresh produce section to enhance freshness. Mood lighting zones help to enhance the ambiance and support the specific atmosphere you want to create in each area.

Remember, the key is to strike a balance between functionality, aesthetics, and the overall shopping experience. Implementing these creative lighting ideas can help elevate your supermarket’s atmosphere, captivate customers’ attention, and leave a positive and lasting impression.
How to Light up a Supermarket?
Achieving effective lighting in a supermarket requires careful planning and execution. Lighting up a supermarket effectively involves several key steps:
- Lighting Assessment: Begin by evaluating your supermarket’s space, including the layout, ceiling height, and existing lighting infrastructure. Assess any limitations or areas that require special attention.
- Identify Lighting Requirements: Determine the lighting needs for different areas within the supermarket. This includes ambient lighting for overall illumination, task lighting for specific work areas, and accent lighting to highlight products or create focal points. Consider factors such as customer comfort, product visibility, and energy efficiency.
- Lighting Levels: Determine the recommended lighting levels for each area based on industry guidelines and standards. Ensure that the lighting is sufficient to provide clear visibility without causing glare or discomfort for shoppers. Different areas may require varying levels of brightness to meet specific needs.
- Lighting Design: Collaborate with lighting professionals or consultants to create a lighting design plan. This plan should consider the optimal placement of fixtures, lighting angles, and distribution to ensure uniform illumination throughout the supermarket. Select lighting fixtures that meet the specific requirements of each area and align with your aesthetic preferences.
- Energy Efficiency: Opt for energy-efficient lighting solutions, such as LED lights, to minimize energy consumption and reduce operating costs. LED lights offer longer lifespan, better color rendering, and lower heat emission compared to traditional lighting options.
- Lighting Controls: Implement lighting control systems to enhance flexibility and energy savings. Use dimmers, motion sensors, and timers to adjust lighting levels based on occupancy or daylight availability. This allows for better control and customization of lighting scenes for different times of the day or specific activities.
- Maintenance and Upkeep: Regularly maintain and inspect the lighting system to ensure optimal performance. Replace any faulty or outdated fixtures promptly to maintain consistent lighting levels and prevent disruptions to the shopping experience.

F.Q.A.
Conclusion
Supermarket lighting is a crucial aspect of creating an inviting and enjoyable shopping experience for customers. The right lighting enhances product visibility, influences customer behavior, and contributes to overall satisfaction. By understanding the importance of supermarket lighting, considering different lighting options, and implementing creative ideas, you can transform your supermarket into an attractive and customer-friendly space. Remember to prioritize energy efficiency, aesthetics, and compliance with regulations when selecting lighting fixtures. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a supermarket environment that delights customers and boosts sales.
Sinolumi LED Ltd is a reliable manufacturer of high-quality LED lighting fixtures for supermarkets worldwide. Our products are crafted using premium materials, ensuring durability and performance. With a range of options including LED recessed lights, panel lights, pendant lights, spotlights, track lights, downlights, and cabinet lights, we offer versatile solutions to meet your specific needs. Our competitive prices make it cost-effective to upgrade your supermarket lighting. Customization options are also available for a personalized touch. Contact our 24/7 customer representatives for guidance and get a Free Quote NOW!