The purpose of this study is to evaluate the factors affecting the lighting design of the merchandising areas and depending on the findings, to achieve lighting criteria that are necessary to constitute a comfortable and attractive selling environment. In order to determine these general criteria, the factors which affect the correct and comfortable perception of the merchandise and the effects of light on color are stated. Afterwards, several methods are indicated in order to avoid glare in the shop windows, and mostly preferred lighting methods are defined. Additionally, light sources, lighting fixtures, lighting systems used for the illumination of the merchandising areas are discussed. Finally, general lighting criteria are obtained for the merchandising areas in shops.