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Modernising a lighting installation does not necessarily mean replacing all existing luminaires.
When the structures already in place are still functional and suitable, LED retrofit makes it possible to retain part of the existing equipment and replace only components that have become obsolete or less efficient.
This approach makes it possible to upgrade an existing installation with more recent technologies while limiting works, the costs associated with complete replacement and the amount of material that needs to be renewed.
LED retrofit: modernising existing installations rather than replacing them
LED retrofit is based on a simple principle: keep what still has value and modernise only what is necessary.
Depending on the installation, the work may include:
- replacing old light sources with high-performance LED modules
- integrating new optics
- replacing power supplies or drivers
- adding lighting control or management systems
- adapting the luminaire to the store’s new requirements
The luminaire structure can therefore be retained when it remains functional and compatible with the upgraded installation.
For sites with a large lighting stock, this approach provides an alternative to systematically replacing all equipment.
Why choose retrofit to renovate store lighting?
Reduce energy consumption
Replacing obsolete components with more recent LED solutions can improve the energy efficiency of the installation.
Depending on the existing equipment and the solution implemented, retrofit can significantly reduce energy consumption while maintaining, or even improving, lighting performance.
The upgrade can also be combined with detection, dimming or control systems to adapt lighting to the store’s actual needs.
Reuse existing equipment through retrofit
The benefits of retrofit go beyond energy performance.
By retaining structures that are still functional, this approach encourages the reuse of luminaires and limits the need for new raw materials.
It also reduces the amount of equipment that needs to be replaced and therefore the waste generated during renovation.
Retrofit is therefore fully aligned with a circular economy approach: extending the service life of existing equipment rather than systematically replacing it.
Optimise the overall cost of renovation
Retaining the elements of the luminaire that can still be used helps limit removal, complete replacement and reinstallation work.
Investment is therefore focused on the components required to modernise the equipment, which can help control the overall project cost compared with a complete renewal of the lighting stock.
This approach can also help reduce maintenance costs through the use of more recent and efficient components.
Limit disruption in the store
Retrofit work can be carried out directly on existing luminaires, with very fast and targeted interventions. Tests carried out by TRATO showed that component replacement could be completed in around 3 minutes per luminaire.
This speed of intervention helps limit major works and disruption to operations, which is particularly important for stores that need to remain open during renovation.
An approach developed by TRATO for renovation projects
TRATO supports retailers with the creation, renovation and modernisation of their lighting installations.
Retrofit complements this expertise by making it possible to upgrade existing lighting fleets when their configuration is suitable for renovation.
Each project requires an initial assessment to determine which components can be retained, which need to be replaced and what performance levels are expected after the upgrade.
This approach makes it possible to design a solution tailored to the existing installation rather than systematically applying a standard replacement solution.
TRATO’s retrofit solutions are studied and developed in France, with equipment designed and manufactured locally.
A large-scale retrofit project in practice
TRATO has implemented this approach as part of a project carried out at the head office of a major retail company.
Out of a total fleet of 15,000 luminaires, 6,500 units were upgraded through retrofit.
By retaining the existing structures, 22.5 tonnes of aluminium were reused.
The equipment upgrade also resulted in
- energy consumption reductions of up to 70%
- a return on investment achieved 7 months sooner than with a complete replacement of the installations
This example illustrates the benefits that retrofit can deliver when the characteristics of the existing lighting fleet make it possible to retain a significant proportion of the equipment.
An approach recognised by the industry
TRATO’s approach to reuse and retrofit was also recognised at PERIFEM DAY 2026.
TRATO received an award in the Reuse category, highlighting a solution capable of combining installation modernisation, energy performance and the reuse of existing equipment.
This recognition reinforces an approach that directly addresses retailers’ current challenges in terms of renovation and reducing environmental impact.
Retrofit or complete replacement: the right solution depends on the project
Retrofit is not intended to systematically replace the installation of new luminaires.
Depending on the condition of the equipment, the required performance, technical constraints or changes to the store layout, complete replacement may still be necessary.
The key is therefore to assess the existing installation in order to identify the most appropriate solution.
When the existing structures remain suitable, retrofit makes it possible to extend their useful life while benefiting from the performance of more recent lighting components.
A different way to modernise retail lighting
Renovating store lighting no longer necessarily means replacing all existing equipment.
By reusing existing luminaires and focusing work on the components that need to be upgraded, LED retrofit can combine energy performance, cost control, reuse and business continuity.
An approach that addresses today’s retail challenges while giving existing installations a new lease of life.
Discover the TRATO retrofit solution