Lighting Retail with Purpose: Reflections from the Fagerhult Team

Our approach is grounded in collaboration – understanding the design philosophy behind each project and ensuring that lighting enhances and supports it. We believe that the best results come when lighting is seamlessly integrated with the overall concept, materials, and atmosphere.

Our retail team combines diverse experiences and perspectives, united by a shared passion for creating lighting that transforms the look and feel of a retail space. To understand what drives their work and how they approach the unique challenges of retail lighting, we spoke with three team members about their partnership with designers to shape spaces that feel cohesive, engaging, and true to the design intent.

Dave Hughes, Head of Lighting Design

As Head of Lighting Design, Dave’s role involves overseeing design delivery, guiding teams, and working closely with clients to ensure their spaces are not just illuminated but brought to life. Dave has vast experience working in a variety of sectors, but retail is a sector that quickly stood out for him: 

“I prefer working in the fast-paced nature of retail. The idea of working on a project and within weeks you see it installed – there’s a quicker gratification compared to other sectors where you wait years.”

One of his recent highlights was a Next store in Thurrock, Essex, where his team collaborated with architects Gensler to reimagine the brand’s look:

“We introduced more detailed LED elements, including coves and ceiling pads with squares and rectangles of light. While a few individuals from the Next team were initially hesitant about the changes being made to the store, the design looked fantastic and quickly proved its impact. It’s about moving a brand forward while staying true to its identity.”

For Dave, success is measured by teamwork and outcomes:

"I am driven by delivering high-quality work and take great satisfaction in seeing how our designs perform in the real world. Constructive feedback – whether positive or offering opportunities to refine our approach – is what helps us grow and develop as designers. I believe the success of any design is never the achievement of a single individual – it is the product of collaboration, learning, and shared progress. I truly enjoy being an active part of that process."

Lee Thompson, Business Development Manager

Lee manages a mix of client accounts and new business development. His portfolio includes household names such as Starbucks, O2, and Molton Brown. Alongside nurturing relationships, he collaborates with retail designers and fit-out companies, providing them with Fagerhult’s design expertise where their lighting knowledge may be limited.

Before joining Fagerhult, Lee spent years in retail, from the shop floor to management. That experience continues to shape his approach today:

“Retail gave me a strong foundation in customer service, and that’s still what drives me. I enjoy building relationships, understanding clients’ challenges, and finding ways we can add real value.”

For Lee, the most rewarding aspect of the role is the impact lighting has on a retail environment:

“We’re not just delivering a product – we’re helping create a feeling and an atmosphere that aligns with a brand’s identity and customer expectations. Effective lighting has the power to influence mood, guide people's movement through a space, and shape their connection with what’s on display. When it’s done well, it enhances both the environment and the overall customer experience. That responsibility is something I take pride in.”

Lee’s perspective bridges the gap between customer experience and design delivery. He thrives on helping clients see what’s possible:

“Sometimes clients don’t initially see what’s possible with lighting. That’s when the conversation becomes exciting – showing them how light can transform not only their products but the entire store experience.”

Kayleigh Latka, Retail Commercial Director

Kayleigh has been with Fagerhult for 14 years, joining the company when its retail division was still in its infancy. Her role is broad and fast-paced. She oversees the internal sales team – a group that handles everything from project coordination and quoting to stockholding and ensuring projects are delivered within tight lead times. 

“Retail is more fluid than other areas. Whatever the salesperson needs for a project, we make it happen. We quote, we stockhold, we coordinate – it’s very much an all-hands-on-deck approach.”

For Kayleigh, the pace is what makes retail so rewarding:

“I’ve always thrived under pressure. I enjoy the speed and intensity of retail – that sense of instant progress and achievement. You can work on something one week and see it live the next, which is hugely motivating.”

The nature of retail projects means last-minute changes are inevitable, but she views them as an opportunity rather than a setback:

“There are times when a project is 70% delivered, and a designer will request a significant change. Without moving the timeline, we need to make it work. That problem-solving element is challenging, but it’s also what keeps the role exciting.”

Just as important to her as the pace is the culture of collaboration within her team:

“One of the main reasons I’ve been at Fagerhult for so long is the people. We’re a very open team – hierarchy doesn’t get in the way of collaboration. Everyone has a voice, and that constant openness helps us keep improving.”

Looking to the future, Kayleigh is most excited about the role of sustainability in retail:

“It’s a huge topic, and more and more of our clients are pushing for it. I enjoy being part of those conversations – seeing how retailers are trying to move forward and be more sustainable in the way they design and deliver their spaces. It’s an important and exciting challenge for the industry.”

Lighting Retail, Together

Together, Dave, Lee, and Kayleigh highlight the unique character of retail lighting: a sector defined by pace, collaboration, and creativity. From problem-solving under pressure to shaping memorable customer experiences, the team’s shared commitment ensures that every project delivers both impact and value. It’s this combination of expertise, adaptability, and passion that continues to drive Fagerhult’s retail work forward.

To discuss how Fagerhult can support your next Retail project, please get in touch.