Cambridge United FC Store
As an existing client, CUFC partnered with Layrd Design to deliver a full turnkey retail design and fit-out of their 100sqm retail store in Cambridge. The brief was to transform an outdated retail unit into a bold, branded fan store aligned with the club’s new crest and visual identity, while creating an immersive supporter experience that increases engagement and merchandise sales.
The existing space was a stripped-back shell with outdated retail displays and little sense of identity. Working within the constraints of a rented unit, where nothing could be permanently fixed, Layrd Design developed a flexible retail interior concept focused on modularity, speed of installation and future adaptability.
Within just four weeks, the football merchandise store was transformed into a dynamic sports retail destination using a fast-track design and build approach. Every element was designed to be demountable, reusable and brand-driven without compromising visual impact.
The retail interior is rooted in Cambridge United’s iconic amber and black colour palette, reinforcing club recognition throughout the customer journey. Key typography, graphic messaging and the club motto are layered across the environment to create a cohesive branded retail space.
A heritage timeline installation at the entrance celebrates the club’s history and anchors the new crest within its legacy - an experiential storytelling feature that immediately connects supporters emotionally to the space.
Bespoke retail display systems, mesh merchandising units and layered wall graphics enhanced with LED feature lighting create depth and visual hierarchy across the store. Interchangeable illuminated lightbox panels allow seasonal campaigns, kit launches and promotions to be updated quickly, supporting ongoing retail marketing activity.
Sustainability played an important role in the delivery. Tarkett flooring was installed without adhesive, allowing it to be removed and reused in the future. Existing furniture pieces were vinyl-wrapped rather than replaced, extending their lifespan while aligning them with the new identity.
The project demonstrates how sustainable retail interiors can deliver high visual impact while meeting the practical limitations of a rented commercial property.
An innovative and creative way to incorporate the club's crest into the shop floor.
Designed for Flow - Space Planning, Customer Flow & Fan Engagement
Customer journey mapping and retail zoning were central to the concept. With permanent walls prohibited, modular foam-board structures defined product areas while maintaining openness and flexibility.
Patterned carpet tiles guide customer circulation intuitively through the store, improving navigation and increasing exposure to merchandise categories. A mix of display furniture types differentiates product zones without blocking sightlines, ensuring accessibility and clear visibility across the store.
The existing checkout counter was re-clad and upgraded with integrated LED lighting, transforming a transactional point into a branded retail focal feature that reinforces identity at the moment of purchase.
The Cambridge United Club Store is now an immersive sports retail environment that strengthens the relationship between club and supporters. The space blends heritage storytelling with contemporary retail design, improves customer flow, and creates a memorable matchday shopping experience.
The new store delivers a bold, modern football merchandise destination — energetic, flexible and unmistakably Cambridge United.
