Custom Step Vans: Creating a Mobile Retail Unit
A Mobile Retail & Merchandising Unit for Kansas City Current
Step Van Customizations
Custom step vans have become essential assets across various industries, offering unparalleled versatility and adaptability to meet unique business needs. Whether it’s for food trucks, mobile offices, or retail spaces, these vehicles provide a blank canvas for creating specialized solutions that drive business success.
In this article, we explore the transformation of a standard Ford F59 step van into a fully customized mobile merchandising unit for the KC Current, a professional women’s soccer team. This project highlights the power of step van customizations in creating purpose-built vehicles that not only meet operational requirements but also enhance brand visibility and engagement.
Project Overview
The KC Current, a professional women’s soccer team, sought a mobile merchandising vehicle to bring their branded products directly to fans both at games and across the city. Starting with a brand new Ford F59 step van, our team was tasked with turning this standard white vehicle into a fully functional mobile retail unit.
The goal was clear: Create a visually striking, fully customized step van that could effectively showcase merchandise while also being easy to operate in various locations. The project involved a blend of interior and exterior customizations, tailored to meet the specific branding and operational needs of the KC Current.
Customization Details
To bring the KC Current’s vision to life, we executed a range of customizations, both inside and out, designed to create a mobile merchandising unit that is as functional as it is visually appealing.
Interior Customizations:
Custom Materials and Build-Out: We used premium materials to create a durable yet attractive interior layout, perfectly suited for retail merchandising. The build-out included specialized shelving and display windows to highlight products and optimize the shopping experience.
Electric and Lighting Installation: To enhance visibility and create a welcoming atmosphere, we installed custom lighting solutions and electrical components, ensuring the unit could operate seamlessly in various environments, whether during day games or evening events.
Exterior Customizations:
Custom Paint and Graphics: The exterior was painted teal with an industrial enamel paint and a partial wrap with custom graphics was installed to aligned with the KC Current’s branding, transforming the vehicle into a moving billboard that commands attention wherever it goes.
Automatic Awnings: We installed two automatic awnings that open up the side of the vehicle, allowing easy access for fans to view and purchase merchandise. This design feature also provides shade and protection during outdoor events.
Rear Cutout and Video Display: The rear of the vehicle features an additional awning and a cutout area fitted with two TVs. These screens can be used to display engaging video content, further enhancing the fan experience and drawing attention to the merchandise.
Challenges and Solutions
Every customization project comes with its unique challenges, and this one was no exception. One of the primary challenges we faced was translating the KC Current’s vision into a practical, fully functional mobile unit. While clients often have creative and ambitious ideas, not every concept is feasible in real-world applications.
In this project, our team worked closely with the KC Current to align their vision with practical design solutions. Through a collaborative process, we refined the design to ensure that every feature not only met the client’s goals but also functioned seamlessly in a mobile environment. This problem-solving approach, grounded in both experience and open communication, allowed us to create a mobile merchandising unit that exceeded the client’s expectations while staying within the scope of what’s achievable. We employ this approach with all our clients to reach a superior outcome.
Results and Impact
The final product was a sleek, eye-catching mobile retail unit that perfectly embodied the KC Current brand. The custom step van not only delivered on its visual appeal but also met all functional requirements needed for it to operate effectively as a merchandising vehicle.
The van has since become a staple at KC Current games, providing fans with easy access to branded merchandise in an engaging and convenient way. Its flexible design allows it to travel throughout the city, bringing the team’s products directly to their supporters, wherever they are. The automatic awnings and video displays create a dynamic retail environment, making it more than just a vehicle—it’s a mobile experience.
The client was thrilled with the end result, noting how the vehicle has enhanced their merchandising capabilities and visibility across multiple locations. This project is a prime example of how well-executed step van customizations can turn a simple vehicle into a powerful marketing and retail tool.
Connect with Us!
We specialize in transforming step vans into purpose-built solutions. Whether you need a mobile merchandising vehicle, a food truck, or other customizations, our team has the expertise and experience to bring your vision to life.
Interested in learning more about how custom step vans can support your business goals? Connect with us today to discuss your project and explore how we can create a vehicle tailored to your needs.