The size of the reflector is an important consideration. The bigger the reflector, the less merchandise the customer can see, which defeats the purpose of lighting. But if you want real intense light, the compact is the way to go. Improving the Fluorescent Fluorescent lighting has gone through a considerable metamorphosis. It used to be that you put a red garment under fluorescent light, and it could be any color from raspberry to orange.
Fluorescent lamps provide uniform, even light that is beautiful for cosmetics and accessories.
The small profile makes them more desirable in showcase lighting. The T5 lamps reduce the profile of the housing that incorporates the bulb. He predicts that the high-output T5 lamps will become the norm in showcases, replacing the larger and less efficient T8s almost totally in the next few years. But right now, they're only available in 24 inches and up. A lot of designer showcases are getting so elaborate that they're unreal.