Gondola shelving 101

Starter vs. add-on units

A starter unit is a complete, free-standing section: two uprights, a base assembly, a back panel and shelves. An add-on unit has only one upright — it borrows the upright of the unit before it. That's why an add-on costs roughly 25% less.

A run is always one starter plus however many add-ons you need. A 24-foot run of 48-inch units is one starter and five add-ons, not six starters. Ordering six starters is the single most common and most expensive first-timer mistake.

Wall units vs. island units

Wall (single-sided) units sit against a perimeter wall. They are shallower — usually 16 to 19 inches — and often taller, 72 inches or more, because nobody has to see over them.

Island (double-sided) units stand in the middle of the floor and merchandise two aisles at once. Keep these at 54 or 60 inches so staff can see across the sales floor. A double-sided unit's total depth is roughly twice the shelf depth plus the center panel.

Back panel options

How to measure your space

1. 01Measure wall-to-wall in each direction, then subtract obstructions: columns, coolers, doors and their swing.
2. 02Plan aisle width first. Grocery and convenience typically run 4 to 5 feet clear; ADA requires 36 inches minimum.
3. 03Divide the remaining run length by your unit width (usually 48 inches). Round down — never force the last unit.
4. 04Check your ceiling: sprinkler heads need 18 inches of clearance above the top shelf. This is what limits 72-inch runs.
5. 05Note your floor. Uneven concrete means levelers and, on long runs, a floor rail to keep everything straight.