The internet is teeming with articles on the importance of in-store merchandising, but few actually offer relevant information on how to execute it effectively and efficiently. If you are on the same page with us and looking for some useful tips on store merchandising, you have arrived. Check out these fantastic, easy-to-do, and measurable ways to increase footfalls and shore sales up.
First things, first! What is in-store merchandising, and how is it different from general merchandising? While general merchandising comprises product design, packaging, branded promotion, online sales, etc.; in-store merchandising, as the name suggests, refers to product merchandising in shops/stores. It includes space allotment, display setups, layouts of shelves, and other considerations for displaying and selling products.
Now, before hopping on to fancier and more advanced methods of in-store retail merchandising, all plans for merchandising India should positively follow the following three steps. Why? Because you got to set the right foundation; here you go.
Understand the Floor Plan
An oft-ignored factor, a floor plan of your store plays a role much vital than you might initially think. A well-organized floor plan helps maximize the space available, keeps overcrowding of products at bay, and makes it easier for shoppers to move around the store and check products. Remember that the easier and quicker the access to products for the customers in the store, the higher is the likelihood that a shopper will become a customer.
How to do this? Start with the area at the front of your store and work backward. There first few feet (5-15 feet, depending on store size) of your store’s entrance should be clutter-free. Imagine entering a room full of things you want, only to find way too many hurdles right at the entrance. It might affect one’s decision to enter that room further. This is exactly what happens if managing the decompression zone is not paid enough attention to while executing in-store merchandising plans. Remember that creating a space that allows a transition from the outside world to shopping mode is extremely significant to turn a visitor to a customer.
Group Products Logically
It may start with something as basic as separate sections for children, teenagers, and adults and may go up to different sections according to the product type, need, and occasion. For example, you are allocating specific spaces to display and keep formal wear, playtime-wear, party-wear, sleep-wear, footwear, and accessories in the apparel and accessories store. The same pattern can be followed in FMCG and consumer durables stores too. As long as it makes sense to your customers, you can be more creative with your groupings. The primary aim of organizing your merchandise this way is to make products easier to find, elicit consumer’s interest and attention, and then maximize the possibilities of it getting converted to an actual purchase.
Keep updating the stock
It is an absolute bummer for the customer to find the product that they have been looking for and then notices that it has already expired or near the expiry date. Besides, it also leaves a negative impression about the management by the store owner and employees. Take stock of the situation at the store regularly to ensure that the stock available is updated.
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