If Link 51 was your go-to for shop and stockroom shelving, the search for a new supplier has probably landed on your desk sooner than you’d have liked. It’s a decision most retailers only make once every few years, so it’s worth taking a beat to check you’re choosing on the right things rather than just the first quote that lands.
Why this decision is landing on more desks right now
Link 51 is no longer trading, and a lot of the retail and shopfitting enquiries we’re seeing at Rackline are from buyers in exactly that position: an existing range that’s no longer supported, a refit that needs new stockroom shelving fast, or simply the job of finding a replacement supplier before the next order is due. None of that is a bad problem to have — it just means doing a bit more homework than usual before you commit.
What to check before choosing a new supplier
A few questions are worth asking of any supplier you’re considering, not just on price:
- Can they match or improve on what you already have? A good design team should be able to work from photos, measurements or old part numbers, not just a fresh brief.
- How long is the lead time? Especially if a store opening or refit date is already fixed.
- Do they install as well as supply? One team covering design through to fit-out usually means fewer delays and less finger-pointing if something doesn’t fit.
- What’s their range depth? Static shelving covers most stockrooms, but garment hanging, mobile shelving and secure cabinets are worth checking too if your site needs more than one type.
- What happens after installation? Ask how they handle spares, extensions and repairs a year or two down the line — it’s the question that matters most if your last supplier has just shown why.
Where Rackline fits
We’ve been supplying retail storage since 1984, and we’ve put together a dedicated guide for anyone specifically looking for a Link 51 alternative, covering the product ranges that typically replace it and what to expect from the switch. Our static shelving range covers the bulk of general stockroom needs, with mobile shelving, garment hanging systems and secure cabinets available where a site needs something more specific.
A quick buyer’s checklist
- Take photos and rough measurements of the space before you call anyone
- Note down any part numbers or the make of your existing shelving, if you have them
- Ask for a design and quote timeline upfront, not just a price
- Confirm whether installation is included or handled separately
- Check aftercare and spares before you sign off, not after
If you’d like a design and quote for a replacement, book a free design consultation, call 01782 770 144 or fill in the form below. Most retail enquiries get a first response within a few working days.