The large format retailer was looking for a more environmentally and longer-lasting Exit Sign.

As Australia’s largest DIY warehouse chain and Australia’s #1 Trusted Brand, the retailer, has been significantly lifting its environmental and safety performance for ten years. It is always looking for solutions and products that meet all three complex challenges.

Known for its extensive network of stores and high customer traffic, the retailer faced several critical challenges in ensuring safety and sustainability across its facilities. The complexity of managing  high-traffic retail environments made the need for durable, reliable, and eco-friendly solutions paramount.

Traditional exit signs, reliant on electricity and batteries, posed significant maintenance burdens and hidden costs. These signs required regular testing and frequent replacements, leading to increased operational expenses and potential safety risks due to system failures.

Additionally, the client aimed to reduce its carbon footprint and eliminate e-waste associated with traditional signage systems.

They needed a solution that would not only enhance safety for staff and customers but also align with its environmental sustainability goals. This included improving energy efficiency and reducing energy usage, minimising maintenance costs, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

Even though Emergency Exit Signs are mandatory for occupant safety, when it comes time to choosing them, navigating the various options can be tricky. This is why Smarterlite has worked closely with and briefed dozens of electricians, project managers and facilities managers across 100 of the retailer’s stores throughout Australia.

Through these strong working relationships, Smarterlite has developed  a deep understanding of their needs and challenges.

Knowing the importance that the retailer and their parent company place on both safety and sustainability, Smarterlite provided the client with optimal solutions through their tried and tested, world-leading and low-to-no operational carbon photoluminescent products.

These products included Smarterlite Environmental Exit Signs, stair treads, hand rail strips, and specialised photoluminescent wall paint; all designed to meet the highest safety standards while significantly reducing energy consumption and maintenance needs. In new stores, using Smarterlite Environmental Exit Signs has reduced construction costs for the retailer, in addition to their savings in operating, maintenance and compliance costs through the life of the store.

Smarterlite Apollo and Hyperion Environmental Exit Signs have been deployed in various stores to meet their individual needs. The Apollo Exit Sign reduces risks associated with suspended signs being hit by forklifts, while the Hyperion Exit Sign features integrated LEDs ensuring the sign remains illuminated with 100 lux on its face.

By implementing these advanced Environmental Exit Signs, they were able to reduce their dependency on electrical systems and eliminate the need for frequent battery replacements.

The deployment of Smarterlite Environmental Exit Signs and related products at the retailer led to impressive outcomes.

• Enhanced Safety: Reliable and durable exit signs ensure the safety of staff and customers, reducing the risk of system failures and improving emergency preparedness.
• Reduction in Electricity Usage: The new exit signs drastically cut down on energy consumption, resulting in significant cost savings.
• Annual Operational Savings: Reduced maintenance and operating costs, leading to substantial financial savings.
• Carbon Saved Annually: Lower carbon emissions aligned with the retailer’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
• e-Waste Avoided Each Year: By eliminating the need for traditional battery replacements, they significantly reduced its electronic waste footprint.

• Sustainable Practices: The use of recycled materials and energy-efficient solutions demonstrates the retailer’s dedication to environmental responsibility.
• Cost Efficiency: The reduction in maintenance and operating costs provides long-term financial benefits, enhancing overall operational efficiency.