Not every fit-out happens in an empty unit, and sometimes the business is still trading and the works need to happen alongside the business, either in or out of operating hours - both of which pose their own unique issues.
You have two options. You can phase the work so the business keeps running, or accept a planned closure and design the programme to keep it short. Both are valid, but you should decide early on, because the choice impacts the construction sequence, end date and cost.
Phasing a project will cost more, as it takes more time and adds complexity / coordination; because the work has to be planned around the people still using the space. In return you will protect revenue, and maintian consistency for your customers - which for many businesses is worth it, as a closure could send customers elsewhere.
A planned closure is usually cheaper and faster because the contractor has the whole space. They can work without having to stop and start. But the business has to absorb the downtime, which means lost trade, displaced staff and a relaunch afterwards.
Decide which suits the business best before the programme is set. Changing approach halfway through is costly and disruptive - don’t do it!
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