Retail Merchandising: Transforming Browsers to Buyers

It’s no secret that online shopping is continually reaching new heights. Consumers have found they can find a vast selection of merchandise online that might not otherwise be available to them. They’ve also become savvy to the power of price comparisons, seeking out coupon codes, and finding other ways to shop smarter and cheaper. While many fear that this development might phase out in-store shopping in time, that doesn’t necessarily have to be the end result.

Catering to the In-Store Crowd

Quite a few consumers still prefer the in-person shopping experience in spite of all the products now available to them online. Though society seems to be obsessed with technology, few things can compare to actually being able to wander through store aisles and physically touch the merchandise. Of course, having the option to try on clothing and shoes before purchasing them offers plenty of benefits as well.

Converting Browsers to Buyers

Having said all that, seeing a steady stream of people coming into your store doesn’t necessarily mean you’re going to sell them something. Some simply enjoy getting out of the house and browsing. Others want to get a better idea of how shoes and clothing might fit them or just how big a kitchen gadget might really be. From there, they plan to make their actual purchases online. Getting them to spend their money in your store instead of simply looking around requires making use of effective storefront merchandising ideas.

Delving into Retail Merchandising

In a nutshell, merchandising is the process of arranging items in your store in a way that encourages visitors to make purchases. Furthermore, it entails prompting prospects to spend more than they might’ve originally planned. The concept of merchandising encompasses a range of components and tactics that essentially focus on making your inventory more attractive and interesting to in-store visitors. If you’re trying to develop a more effective merchandising strategy, it’s important to keep a few things in mind.

Less Is More

Consumers have more choices now than ever before, and their shopping experiences are going to become even more complicated moving forward. They want a selection, but they don’t want to be flooded with so many options they don’t know which one to choose. Instead of carrying countless similar items from different brands, cut down on the selection and focus more on the presentation of a few select options.

Ensure Your Layout Makes Sense

Truly efficient merchandising strategies involve improving the layout and flow of your inventory. All the items in your store need to be set up in a way that makes sense and brings order to chaos. Make your inventory clearly visible, and set it up in a way that’s attractive to customers. Also place an emphasis on upselling and cross-selling. Place decorative pillows near the bedding sets that match them. Put together unique outfits and display them close to all the components included.

Keep Your Products Moving

Millions of consumers still prefer the in-store shopping experience to at least some extent. That doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll spend money in your store. To promote spending and encourage visitors to return, you’ll need to develop an effective merchandising strategy. Doing so will not only boost your bottom line but also give the public the experiences they’re looking for.