Your counter serves many purposes, so it can be difficult to create a space that can accommodate all of your needs. The three main roles of a counter are 1) to serve as a space for customers to check out purchases, 2) to display smaller, convenience items for impulse purchase and 3) to function as a work station for employees.

By following some simple tips, you can transform your counter from drab to fab.

Most importantly, you must keep your counter clean. A dusty work area could reflect poorly on your business. At the end of the day, try to make it a point to wipe down the front, sides and surface of your counter. After each week clear everything off and get the back corners.

Don’t clutter up your counter space. This is sometimes easier said than done. Remember that countertops are no place for work documents or employees’ personal belongings. Employees can keep their belongings safely stowed in the back of the store. Also, things like staplers, receipt tape and other day to day supplies have a way of ending up everywhere and getting lost. To keep organized, we recommend designating a permanent home for these items and then labeling that spot so employees know where to return items.

Make thoughtful choices as to what you keep on your counter. If you make note of the supplies that you use most often, you can put everything else away. For merchandise, we find it best to switch out countertop items and see which ones sell.

Keep the countertop simple, but make it pop. Just by adding some lights or seasonal decorations can really make the countertop stand out. Trying new things can work to your advantage. Consider changing up your countertop display.

How do you keep your countertop interesting and functional?