visual presentation of merchandise is called

What Is Visual Merchandising? – Importance, Elements, & Examples

Visual merchandising is what one sees when walking into a retail space. It is the presentation and organisation of products in both the store and on display to arouse customer interest and convince them to buy and return to the store.

It is a well-defined strategy that aims to influence customer decisions inside a store; thus, it is crucial for retail marketing.

But what exactly is visual merchanding, why is it important, and how it works? Here’s a guide explaining everything.

What Is Visual Merchandising?

Visual merchandising is a practice of optimising retail store presentation and displaying goods to highlight their features and benefits better and encourage customer interest.

To make this visual merchandising definition simpler, divide it into three parts –

• It’s a practice of optimising retail store presentation: Visual merchandising is an intentional practice to optimise the space and layout of the store to present the inventory in the best possible way. 
• It focuses on highlighting product’s features and benefits: Marketers plan, design, and display products with an aim to highlight their features and benefits.
• It aims to encourage customer interest: Visual merchandising aims to influence customers and encourage them to purchase goods and return to the store in the future.

Visual merchandising is an important aspect of retail marketing. It does not only include displays for merchandise on display but also includes store layout, greeter design, floor plan, signage, fixtures, and lighting.

It includes shaping customer experience inside a retail space through presentation and advertising. Therefore, it is an important tool that retail marketers use to influence consumer behaviour and thus fulfil their marketing goals – sales and repeat visits.

Importance Of Visual Merchandising

A good looking and well strategised retail space is essential to meeting a business’s sales and marketing goals. Visual merchandising helps retailers –

• Improve customer experience : Customer experience is vital to running a successful business and visual merchandising is a very important part of it. It helps to organise the retail space and help customers find what they’re looking for easily – thus improving their experience while shopping in your store. Moreover, it helps to attract, engage, and inform customers better with carefully designed displays.
• Sell targeted items: Some items bring in more profits than others, and sellers want to sell more of these. Visual merchandising helps highlight these targeted items and thus help sell them more.
• Influence Buyer decisions: Visual merchandising also involves using neuromarketing techniques to influence buyers’ decisions by appealing to their unconscious minds. This involves strategic product placement (profitable items are kept at the eye level), store paint (to set the mood), fragrance (to make you want more), and music (to influence you subconsciously).
• Meet sales goals: Visual merchandising is the salesperson that persuades the customer to purchase intended products subconsciously. Marketers do this by strategically placing profitable items, making them noticeable and tempting people to buy them.
• Market retail stores: A memorable store is what stands out in the crowd of boring retail stores. Visual merchandising aims to make the store stand out and find a place in the customers’ minds. This is done by using visual cues, positioning, and aesthetics, making them stop and look and, sometimes, even take photos or spread the word organically.

Objectives Of Visual Merchandising

Customers enter a store by seeing two things – the brand and the store design. Visual merchandising aims to influence customers by directing their attention towards the store and then to certain areas inside the store, creating a positive first impression.

Besides bringing in more customers, the process of visual merchandising aims to –

• Creating a good customer experience,
• Make the retail space visitor engage with space with all the senses (hearing, sight, touch, smell, and taste)
• Increase sales
• Develop store design to target the right audience
• Use store resources to get the most out of marketing ROI
• Give a reason to customers to come back
• Make the most out of promotional space.

Elements Of Visual Merchandising

Visual merchandising involves six distinct elements that work in conjunction to help retailers create a unique experience for shoppers. They are –

Store Layout

It is the organised arrangement of retail space that helps customers find what they’re looking for quickly. It includes store greeter, entry point, focal point, shopping flow, signage, and display fixtures.

• Store design: It is the physical look of the store that can be seen by anybody walking into it. It includes vinyl graphics, store fixtures, paint colour themes, lighting sources, and display fixtures.
• Interior design: The interior layout of the retail store that customers cannot see from the outside – it involves showroom floor covers, countertops colours, merchandising fixtures.
• Merchandise presentation: Product categories that are displayed together (by size or type), linear vs non-linear displays (merchandise arranged in a way that they have a path). It also includes decisions about which type of merchandise is suitable for the location and how to use the space effectively.
• Focal Point: A display is incomplete without a focal point where the attention is directed. This can be displays like mannequins, art pieces, themed decorations (like Christmas), lighting fixtures, etc.
• Empty Space: There is always a certain amount of empty space in the store to improve the visual appearance, the flow of foot traffic , and breathing room. It is used as an additional display area for merchandise.
• Display fixtures: A store fixture is anything installed within the retail space to display items, such as rotating racks, shelves, or tables.
• Signage: Store signage helps customers navigate to the right area, locate a product, special offers, and wayfinding. It can be in-store signs at entrances and exits, backroom information boards, shelf edge panels, window decals/signage.
• Marketing collaterals /POP displays: Store brochures, price tags, product cards, table-top visuals, floor decals and aisle signs are used to spread the store’s message.
• Promotional space: It includes backdrops for events and samples, popcorn machines etc. They can be used to entice customers into the store or encourage them to try something new.
• Mannequins: Mannequins are full-scale, detailed figures that are used as life-sized models to display clothing. Besides clothing, they can also be used to display props like jewellery and scarves.
• Brand elements: It includes any unique aspect that customers identify with a brand. This can be packaging, logos, or mascot figure that promote the brand and its visual identity .

Store Ambience

Store ambience creates a sensory experience by using lighting, music, colours or scents, which are all designed to enhance the overall customer experience. The store ambience directly affects other items in visual merchandising – it can change the perception of merchandise based on how customers perceive it. It includes:

• Colour: It is used to draw attention to certain items, create a mood or theme. Colour is also an important element in retail marketing because it will increase sales if marketers choose a colour that matches their target audience’s colour preferences.
• Lighting: The right lighting setting changes the ambience of any space. It creates shadows with no visible distractions, gives the merchandise a spotlight, and makes all colours brighter.
• Music: It can be used to create a positive atmosphere that increases sales because of the moods it arouses. Music also affects shoppers’ emotions – happy music will make shoppers cheerful, so they spend more freely. Sad music makes people feel less energetic, so they don’t spend as much.
• Scent: It can be used to create a certain mood – it increases the perceived value of products and makes customers more comfortable, relaxed, and willing to make purchases.

Store Narrative

The narrative is the story that the retail space tells. It can be based on the brand’s history and personality, the brand’s theme, the products sold there, or any other popular story that communicates an interesting message. The narrative creates a memorable experience for customers based on how it is presented – every element of visual merchandising has to be reflected in it. It includes:

• Store Theme: The store’s theme aims to create the mood marketers want their customers to associate with their products. The theme may be displayed through interior design, brand elements, or product selection. For example, a chocolate store may use warm colours, creamy pastel hues, and soft music to promote the ‘chocolate experience’. The store theme may be based on a certain season, event, holiday or trend. The theme will change with the seasons to match the latest fashion trends.
• Store Atmosphere: It combines store ambience with visual merchandising elements that are used to convey a certain message about the brand or product. For example, lighting can be used to create a calm atmosphere for relaxation, while colours and music can help customers feel energised. Buyers will associate these feelings with the brand or product and come back for more in future purchases.
• Storytelling: The retail space can be designed to tell a story about the brand’s history, products, theme, or any other idea that matches its business objectives. The narrative is displayed through all visual elements in the store – interior design, product selection, and merchandising methods have to complement it.

Benefits Of A Good Visual Merchandising Strategy

A good visual merchandising strategy may prove to be a game-changer for your business. Here are a few benefits you can get from implementing it –

• Increases store traffic: Through strategic placement of products and displays, retail marketers attract potential buyers. Once the customer is inside the store, retailers make them wander around and lose themselves in a maze of merchandising displays, all intended to direct their attention towards certain areas. Ikea is a perfect example of a store that makes people travel around the space to find products, creating an exciting and memorable shopping experience.
• Increases sales: Right placements with complementary visual elements draw buyers’ attention to a certain area. Retailers make sure that the attention is not only drawn to a single product, but also to related products or complementary items. The process of making people wander around in a store also encourages them to discover new things and be open for impulse buying – whether it is an extra item they had not planned on purchasing or bought because it was on sale. All this leads to more sales.
• Leads to more repeat customers: A good store narrative is a great way to retain customers because the experience they get from it will be memorable and unique. They will associate that experience with your brand or product and become more likely to choose them again in future purchases.
• Aids retail store marketing: Sometimes, good visual merchandising leads to word of mouth marketing – customers will recommend your store to their friends because of the shopping experience they had. The narrative you’ve created for them has become unforgettable, making it easier to market to past and future customers. The store can also get organic Instagram and Pinterest exposure for free , which is essential in the age of social media.

Visual Merchandising Examples

Visual merchandising can be seen at every retail store. The idea is to grab the attention of potential customers through strategic placement of products and visual elements, so they are drawn to certain areas in the store. Here are a few examples of visually merchandised stores –

IKEA is a great example of a company that uses visual merchandising to create a memorable shopping experience. The products are displayed in a way that makes people wander around the store, discover new things and be open to buying an extra product or two – all this leads to more impulse purchases. Ikea also does storytelling through its interior design, choosing colours and furniture styles that reflect the brand’s theme or idea.

The company also has a well-established online presence that attracts buyers with attractive merchandising displays. The icons in the main categories are presented in a neat grid.

Zara is a perfect example of a company that does storytelling with its visual merchandising. The clothing and accessories displayed in the store tell stories about certain themes or characters, like this one:

The brand also employs a full-time team of architects and visual-merchandising experts to make sure Zara stores not only have the perfect narrative, ambience, and layout but that they have almost identical scenes all over the world.

The store plan is placed in the middle of the store. The products are displayed at the end of long aisles that make you walk around in them, increasing your chances to discover other items that might interest you.

The brand uses a wall-mounted display rack in all its stores, showcasing a complete outfit. This interactive feature has become popular among shoppers, who share photos of themselves in Zara outfits on social media.

Zara also uses complementary colours and lighting effects to direct attention towards certain areas in the store.

Bottom-Line?

Visual merchandising is a key marketing tool that can make or break a retail store. It helps marketers connect with customers, create a memorable experience for them, market to past and future customers, and increase sales. It should be an integral part of every retail marketing plan.

Go On, Tell Us What You Think!

Did we miss something?  Come on! Tell us what you think about our article on  visual merchandising  in the comments section.

A startup consultant, digital marketer, traveller, and philomath. Aashish has worked with over 20 startups and successfully helped them ideate, raise money, and succeed. When not working, he can be found hiking, camping, and stargazing.

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What Is Visual Merchandising? Examples and Tips

New to retail and want to increase your sales? Learn how visual merchandising is helping retail businesses grow and how to apply it today.

Well-designed products are the barrier to entry. But visual merchandising takes your business to the top. It’s what gets customers into your store and spending money. 

Not sure how to get started with visual merchandising? This guide will walk you through the ins and outs of creating effective store displays to catch your customers’ attention and get them to make a purchase.

What is visual merchandising?

Visual merchandising is the process of planning, designing, and displaying products to highlight their features and benefits. Its goal is to attract and motivate customers to buy something. 

Understanding visual merchandising

When walking into a typical retail store, you’ll likely notice tidy, curated product displays that visually highlight items for sale. Those products aren’t arranged that way by accident—the merchant is using visual merchandising best practices to help the products sell themselves.

Essentially, your retail space has to be your most productive and most efficient salesperson, and visual merchandising employs the art of optimizing your retail store and visual displays for maximum revenue.

Yes, the discipline requires a sense of aesthetic, but it’s also a science—visual merchandising is a tried-and-true strategy with results you can replicate in your own retail store. 

However, it’s also important to recognize that the field of visual merchandising encompasses a lot of distinctive retail design topics. Best practices cover everything from creating effective window displays that draw the eye of prospective customers to the signage you put up to your store layout and much more.

Benefits of visual merchandising (condense into bullets)

Now that you know what visual merchandising is, look at why retailers should think about this retail merchandising process when designing their brick-and-mortar stores.

• Higher sales: Visual merchandising helps show your brand personality and attract the right customers. Once you capture that audience, you can focus on different product exposure strategies that sell for you.
• Customers spend more time in store: Retailers can influence how much time a customer spends in-store and the choices they make. In-store experiences can create “touch moments” where people interact with merchandise. This could be holding a plant pot, sitting in a comfy chair, or trying on and using sample products.
• More social clout: Great visual merchandising inspires shoppers to share photos of your shop online. Shoppers can post Stories or photos of your products and setup on their feeds. This gets your brand in front of a wider audience that’s more likely to buy. 

Types of visual merchandising 

Window displays, interactive displays, checkout displays.

• Outdoor signage

Seasonal displays

One common and effective form of visual merchandising is the window display. A good display will grab a passerby’s attention and encourage them to enter your store. Retailers use window displays to present new products, highlight promotions, and show off their brand personality. 

Creativity in a window display is crucial for a small retail business. You want to show your products clearly. This will let passersby see what you’re selling and attract the right customers. 

“Humans have a subconscious attraction to striking visuals. Window displays not only grab their attention, but help them envision how products will look on them or in their homes. These displays inspire would-be customers and make it easier to buy once they are in-store,” José Monsivais, Art Director and Visual Merchandiser for DiMarco .

💡 Window displays are crucial to visual merchandising and often the first interaction with potential customers. Read about these unique window displays to get inspiration for your own store.

Retailers are always working to create unique in-store experiences. A recent trend has brought the physical and digital worlds together through interactive experiences and digital signage. They work because interactive elements move and change, which draws shoppers in and gets them to interact with your brand. 

These displays include big investments such as smart vending machines with large touch screens, smart mirrors, and VR showroom displays, as well as smaller (and equally effective) tactics, such as a customer-controlled store playlist and getting product recommendations from a chatbot. 

Mannequins are the classic form of visual merchandising. They are effective because they mimic the human body and can be stylized heavily. Retailers can choose mannequins based on their customer base, through gender, size, and shape. 

Mannequins can be bought online for an average of $60 and $600. They are available in exact measurements and various materials, so you can find a set that matches your target customer. 

Checkout is often forgotten when thinking about visual merchandising yet it’s the one area every customer interacts with when they go to buy something. Checkout displays are powerful enough to attract new customers from outside and encourage impulse buys.

Create a checkout display like you don’t have any employees. Does it represent your brand? Does it promote small, affordable upsells that benefit shoppers? Treat checkout like any other area of your store and you’ll see higher average order value and revenue.

💡 Planograms are detailed drawings of your store layout with special attention on product placement, and they are an important visual merchandising tool. Read this post to learn more about what planograms are and how to use them .

Outdoor signage 

Outdoor signage is any sign placed outside your business. It acts as the first point of contact between you and passersby. Billboards, banners, A-frame signs, and even digital screens are common types of outdoor signage. 

Use clear, concise messaging with easy-to-read fonts and high-contrast colors with your signage. Position signage in high-traffic areas so more folks can see them. And, of course, keep them updated with the latest promotions or information.

A seasonal display is a temporary arrangement of products or decorations that reflect a particular holiday or season. Themed displays can trigger impulse buys by reminding customers of upcoming events or holidays.

Some examples of seasonal displays include:

• Back-to-school
• Black Friday
• Summer Sales
• Chinese New York
• Fall Fashion
• Mother’s Day

For example, a stationary store may set up a Valentine’s Day window display to sell more greeting cards and chocolates during the holiday. They can showcase new arrivals and encourage customers to buy holiday-related products. 

Visual merchandising tips

• Consider the five senses
• Think about color schemes
• Use white space
• Show, don’t tell
• Be smart with lighting
• Follow the rule of three
• Group related products
• Look at the bigger picture
• Promote special offers

1. Consider the five senses

It can be easy to focus on just creating visually stimulating product displays and forget about the other four senses. 

But the secret to an engaging and immersive shopping experience is to create a multi-sensory encounter, or what’s known as “ sensory branding .” Let's take a closer look at how you could go about doing just that:

• Sight: There are an endless array of visual cues you can play around with to communicate your message. From using colors for their psychological triggers to leveraging lighting , symmetry, balance, contrast, and focus to direct and control where a customer looks and for how long. It’s one of the fascinating components of  smart merchandising . 
• Sound : The music you play in your retail store has a profound but subtle effect on how your customers behave while shopping. Depending on who you’re targeting, you can slow people down by playing more mellow music, causing them to browse. 
• Touch: This one’s probably the easiest to get right. Retailers just need to remember to give customers the ability to touch, feel, and try out whatever it is you’re looking to sell. 
• Smell: Believe it or not, there’s an entire science to what’s referred to as “ scent marketing, ” with several real-world case studies of global brands like Samsung, Sony, and Verizon applying it to their advantage. Smell is a fast-track to the system in your brain that controls both emotion and memory—two very prominent factors behind why we choose one brand over another. 
• Taste: This can work magic if you happen to be in the business of selling consumables. Giving customers the ability to sample products before they buy is the equivalent of letting people try on clothes—it’s a highly effective best practice.

2. Think about color schemes

Color is one of the most important elements of visual merchandising. It attracts attention, expresses meaning, unites the environment, and influences buying behavior. 

Color palettes are specific to each store and can build emotional connections with shoppers. Aim to use contrasting shades like black and white. Or try monochromatic colors, which are all shades based on one color. An example of this is using pink, red, and maroon for your store.

When deciding on a color palette, ask yourself: 

• What’s the image and feeling I want to create? For example, if you’re creating a boho-chic boutique, you’ll want to consider earthy tones to show the brand’s passion for nature and freedom. 
• Who’s my target market? Different customer groups have different color preferences. You’ll want to use colors that they are attracted to and avoid colors they won’t enjoy. 
• What colors are my competition using? For the sake of standing out, you don’t want to use the same color patterns as your competitors.

3. Use white space

White space refers to areas of your store that don’t include any design elements. The space doesn’t have to be painted white or anything. It’s just empty.

White space serves a purpose for retailers because it gives customers room to breathe. It highlights displays and products while reducing clutter. It also adds different focus points throughout your store. 

4. Show, don’t tell

Before people purchase something, they typically want an idea of what it will look and feel like. To accommodate this need, you can set up your product displays so shoppers can envision your items in their own home (or wearing them, in the case of apparel).

For example, the sales floor in furniture stores is set up with product displays that make it easy for people to envision how the same products would look in their own homes. Kitchenware retail stores have their merchandise displayed like it might look in a normal kitchen, and so on.

Another prominent way apparel retailers do this is by creating policies that require their sales staff to wear the clothing they’re selling. And of course, the most tried-and-true example of this would be the mannequin and body form , which you can style with all your latest products.

This tactic gives prospective customers an immediate point of reference. And when customers can envision using your product, they’re more likely to purchase it.

5. Be smart with lighting

This again ties into engaging your customer’s senses (see above) and guiding them to experience different moods and emotions based on your store’s lighting. Whether they feel like they’re in a nightclub, a fashion runway, or right at home will depend largely on how you decide to use lighting.

Using spotlights to highlight certain products is also a surefire way to direct attention and make sure people see your top products. For more information on how to use lighting to highlight your product displays and visual merchandising, read our guide to retail lighting design .

6. Follow the rule of three

Most visual merchandisers often refer to the rule of three when creating displays. This rule states that when creating a product display, try to work in sets of three. Based on your product placement, you’ll want to have three of them side by side instead of just one. For example, if you were arranging things by height, you’d have items that were short, medium, and tall. 

Our eyes are most likely to keep moving when we’re looking at something asymmetrical because when we see something symmetrical or balanced our eyes stop dead in their track . The rule of three will keep your customers’ attention on your product displays longer. This also alludes to the pyramid principle, where if you have one item at the top and all other items “one step below,” it forces the eye to look at the focal point and then work its way down.

7. Group related products

Grouping products with other similar items will give your customers additional reasons to buy more products from you. But grouping items also has a more utilitarian justification: it saves shoppers time. 

They don’t need to wander around your entire retail store trying to mix and match things or do a price comparison . It’s one of the reasons grocery stores will put dips right beside their chips, or peanut butter with jams. 

You can also think of it as creating categories. But you don’t need to limit your creativity there: you can also create “groupings” within categories. That means having merchandise that might be the same color, price, size, or type together.

8. Look at the bigger picture

Visual merchandising is not just about making individual sections of your store attractive. It’s about creating a cohesive experience throughout the entire store. 

When designing your store’s layout, consider how each section interacts with the others. Think about the flow of traffic, the visibility of key products, and the overall ambiance you want to create. 

Say you run a boutique clothing store. Instead of focusing all your energy on one stunning display for your latest collection, you consider how it fits into your entire store layout.

• Place the new collection near the entrance to catch customers' attention as they walk in. 
• Arrange related items, like accessories and shoes, nearby to encourage add-on sales.
• Make the path from this section lead naturally to other areas of the store, like casual wear or sale items.

By looking at the bigger picture, you design a harmonious store that looks good and sells even better. 

9. Promote special offers

Promotions are powerful tools for increasing sales. However, simply having offers available isn’t enough. You have to draw attention to them through visual elements. 

Make your special promotions stand out with eye-catching visuals like BOGO (Buy One Get One) stickers, banners, and signs. Make offers clearly visible and easy to understand, so customers can immediately see the value of what they're getting. Place these promos in high-traffic areas and near the products they apply to.

Should you hire a visual merchandiser?

Hiring a visual merchandiser can be a valuable investment for retailers. They can help you improve store aesthetics, utilize your space better, and increase sales. 

But, they come with a price tag. ZipRecruiter cites the average hourly rate is $21.59 per hour for a freelance visual merchandiser, but that fee can easily reach $100 per hour or more. 

Use the following criteria to decide if a visual merchandiser is for you:

• Are sales stagnating or declining? If so, a visual merchandiser might help rejuvenate interest and boost sales.
• Does the store look outdated or cluttered? A fresh, professional look might be needed to attract modern customers.
• Is the store layout maximizing space effectively, or are there underutilized areas?
• Is your store positioned as a premium or trendy brand? High-end or fashion-forward retailers might especially benefit from professional merchandising.
• Do you or your current staff have the skills and creativity needed for effective visual merchandising?
• Do you have the budget to hire a visual merchandiser without compromising other critical areas of your business?
• Is our store size and product range too extensive for us to manage visual merchandising internally?

Evaluate the above criteria to decide if hiring a visual merchandiser is necessary. Balance the benefits with the costs and make sure you’re aligned with your store’s overall strategy. 

Getting started with visual merchandising

Knowing your target customer inside and out will help tremendously when creating effective visual merchandising and product displays. We don’t mean just familiarizing yourself with demographic data like customers’ ages, income, and education level, but digging a little deeper into their psychographics and behaviors.

In other words, don’t just target individual customers—also examine their lifestyles. You can begin doing some of this research by combing through customer data on your point-of-sale system (those order histories can reveal so much!). 

Thanks to the internet, you no longer have to wait around for a brilliant visual merchandising technique or idea to hit you. 

Instead, there are a number of invaluable resources available in the form of blogs, boards, and more. Some of the ones we recommend checking out are the following: 

• Design:retail
• Smart Retailer
• Windowswear

Remember that when trying to optimize your square footage for the most retail sales, a scientific approach of formulating a hypothesis, executing on your idea, and then testing for results will put you in the routine of trying out new ideas and sticking with what works. 

With these tips in mind, try these visual merchandising strategies to see for yourself how product displays can increase sales.

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Visual merchandising FAQ

What does a visual merchandiser do.

Visual merchandisers design and arrange store displays to make shoppers feel comfortable and drive sales. They use layout, lighting, color, and product placement to create effective retail environments.

What is the most important goal of visual merchandising?

A visual merchandiser's main goal is to increase sales by creating visually appealing and engaging displays that attract customers.

What are the 3 most important things in visual merchandising?

Color, product placement, and good lighting are the three most important things in visual merchandising. These elements work together to create a display that's cohesive and draws customers into your store

What is the highest salary for visual merchandising?

In large retail companies and luxury brands, visual merchandising salaries can top $100,000 per year. Location, experience, and the specific company can all affect salaries.

How do I start visual merchandising?

If you want to start in visual merchandising, get a degree in fashion merchandising, retail management, or something similar. You need to gain hands-on experience through internships or entry-level retail positions as well.

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The Difference Between Merchandising Presentation and Visual Merchandising

Product placement and displays play a vital role in retail design. These strategic techniques can ultimately be the difference between making a sale or not. Both merchandising placement and visual merchandising are crucial aspects of designing a retail space. However, although some people use these two words interchangeably, they are in fact two very different design components.

It’s important, as a visual merchandising expert, to realize the distinct difference between these two terms in order to maximize their potential.

What Is Merchandising Presentation?

In basic terms, merchandising presentation is a design strategy that involves placing merchandise in a neat and organized manner to make it easy for the customer to shop. While merchandising presentation is not meant to be boring, it is also not designed to be the main attraction in the store. Its main purpose is to enhance the shopping experience by making wanted products easy to locate.

What Is Visual Merchandising?

Visual merchandising, on the other hand, is more about grabbing attention. The goal of visual merchandising is to show consumers why they need a certain product, how to use a product, or how multiple pieces of merchandise can be used together. Examples include window displays, mannequin displays and feature end displays. The end result is to draw the attention to specific merchandise a customer may have otherwise overlooked, and entice them to make one or multiple purchases.

While visual merchandising is, by design, the exciting and creative component of product placement marketing, it is not a stand-alone feature. You cannot have visual merchandising without first having merchandising presentation in place. The two retail design techniques should complement each other in a manner that maximizes the customer’s shopping experience.

When using merchandising presentation and visual merchandising, the most important thing is to have a plan. Make sure both displays clearly support the company brand. It’s important to always perform a walk-through of your store to make sure everything flows seamlessly together in a way that benefits the customer.

If you’re ready to blend the power of merchandising presentation and visual merchandising to reach your full product placement marketing potential, SPC Retail ® can help. We offer high-quality, 100-percent post-consumer recycled plastic fixtures for affordable display solutions.

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Visual Merchandising: Definition and Tips for Effective Product Displays

Quality products matter, but how you showcase them matters more. Enter visual merchandising: the key to captivating your customers with enticing product displays. It’s the new frontier in retail, where attention to detail and presentation excellence can set you apart from competitors.

Unfamiliar with visual merchandising? Don’t sweat it. This guide will break down what it is, highlight its various forms, and give you tips for setting things in motion.

What is visual merchandising?

Visual merchandising refers to the strategic arrangement and presentation of products. This process shines a spotlight on their key features and benefits, drawing customers in and compelling them to make a purchase.

Step into any successful retail store. The sleek product displays that greet you aren’t just thrown together. Each item is thoughtfully positioned, a testament to the merchant’s commitment to visual merchandising. It’s this dedication that ensures products practically sell themselves.

Your retail space? It’s more than just an area filled with items. It’s an active participant in your sales process . Visual merchandising turns this space into a powerhouse, optimizing every corner and display for optimal revenue. 

It’s easy to think this approach is solely about making things look good. But visual merchandising goes beyond aesthetics. It’s a proven strategy, combining art with science, bringing measurable results to retailers big and small.

Venturing beyond mere product placement, the scope of visual merchandising is broad. It includes captivating window displays, strategic signage, and efficient store layouts—all contributing to an immersive retail experience. 

Types of visual merchandising

Understanding visual merchandising means knowing the various forms it can take. Some methods are quick and straightforward, while others may require a bit more planning and budgeting. Here’s a list of the popular picks for small retailers: 

Window displays

A window display is like an invitation. It captures attention and welcomes potential customers into the store. Retailers often use these spaces to showcase new arrivals, special offers, or a taste of their brand’s essence. 

The goal with window displays? Clarity and appeal. It’s essential for onlookers to easily identify what’s on offer. And if they can visualize those products enriching their own lives, even better. 

Checkout display

Don’t underestimate the power of the checkout area. It’s not merely a transaction point. It’s an opportunity. The right setup can attract newcomers and trigger last-minute purchases.

Visualize a self-service checkout. Is it reflective of your brand? Does it offer irresistible, affordable add-ons? By optimizing this space, you can boost both customer satisfaction and retail sales.

Interactive displays 

Retailers constantly seek new ways to engage customers, especially as the line between physical or digital environment blurs. One emerging trend is blending physical products with digital interactions. These setups invite customers to interact, offering a more immersive experience in both the tangible and virtual realms.

Options range from interactive mirrors like those found at Sephora to simpler solutions like in-store tablets showcasing product details. You can also have chatbot-assisted product recommendations or customer-curated in-store playlists for a memorable shopping experience.

Mannequins 

Mannequins remain a favorite. They resemble real-life models, showcasing products in real-world scenarios. Retailers tailor their mannequin choices to resonate with their target audience.

If you’re considering adding mannequins, they come in various styles and prices—typically between $50 to $500. With diverse sizes and materials available, finding the ideal fit should be a breeze.

Signs in stores are silent guides. They direct and inform customers every step of the way.

Think about a grocery store. Clear signs might show where the apples come from or the origins of your morning coffee.

Stores use various types of signs, from outdoor ones that showcase promotions to inside ones that provide directions. Safety signs, too, play a crucial role, ensuring that everyone remains safe.

A good tip for retailers? Make signs clear and easy to read. Dark words on a light background usually work well. Also, ensure the design matches your store’s style.

Benefits of visual merchandising

Now that you know what visual merchandising is, let’s look at the benefits of implementing this retail business strategy in a brick-and-mortar setting.

Imagine walking into a store. What catches your eye often determines what you buy. Visual merchandising plays to this very instinct. By showcasing products in an enticing manner, it triggers those spontaneous buys. The result? Higher sales. Each strategically placed product or eye-catching display nudges shoppers to spend a bit more.

Longer customer visits

Effective visual merchandising strategy does more than just attract customers—it keeps them engaged longer. Think of it as setting up a space where customers naturally want to explore. These crafted in-store experiences lead to what can be called “engagement points.” It’s at these points that customers might pick up a product, test it out, or even imagine it in their own space.

Amplified reach

Today’s shoppers love to share. A striking store layout or a novel product presentation often ends up on social media. As customers click and share, the brand gains visibility without spending a dime on advertising. When a store becomes a backdrop for a social media post, it’s doing something right. It’s not just about the store’s appeal. It’s free marketing that reaches a wide audience.

Key components of visual merchandising

To maximize virtual merchandising’s potential, it’s crucial to grasp its foundational elements. Let’s look at the visual components essential for creating standout displays.

1. Color scheme 

Color speaks to your customers. It pulls them in, evokes emotions, and influences purchases. Every store paints its own story with colors. Maybe yours leans on the stark contrast of black against white, or perhaps it’s a soft palette of pinks and reds.

Picking the right shades involves:

• Defining your store’s mood. Earthy tones could work for a boho-chic boutique.
• Understanding your audience. Different groups resonate with different colors.
• Differentiating from competitors. If everyone’s doing blue, consider another hue.

2. Lighting

Light can do wonders. It creates ambiance, guides customers, and even sets the mood. Are you aiming for a cozy, homely feel? A vibrant runway-like atmosphere? Or something in between? Lighting can help you achieve it. Spotlights on specific products can direct attention, ensuring your top items don’t go unnoticed.

3. White space 

Having areas in your store without design elements is intentional. These spaces, often termed “white space,” provide visual rest. They amplify the importance of products and cut down on visual clutter. Think Apple: its retail stores are a testament to the power of minimalist design. 

4. Grouping 

Placing similar products together is smart. Not only does it encourage customers to buy more, but it also simplifies their shopping. They don’t need to traverse your entire store searching for related items. It’s efficient and effective. Think about how grocery stores place dips next to chips or how peanut butter often sits beside jams. Group by color, price, size, or type—and watch your sales soar.

5. Rule of three 

When creating displays, think in threes. Place three products side by side. Maybe you group them by height—short, medium, tall. Asymmetrical arrangements catch the eye and hold attention. It’s different, intriguing, and it makes customers look longer. 

How to improve your visual merchandising 

Here are five ways you can improve visual merchandising in your retail store: 

1. Align every element with your brand’s image

As customers enter, let your brand envelop them. Choose major displays that resonate with your brand’s message, then refine the ambiance with smaller details. For example, in a store dedicated to sustainable living, features like reclaimed wood shelves, upcycled decorations, and a green plant motif can drive the brand’s mission home. 

2. Master product placement 

Place premium products at eye level. In a clothing store, for example, hang those designer jeans where they catch the eye first. Bundling works wonders too. Pair that summer dress with matching accessories, offering a complete look. Such strategic placements not only enhance the shopping experience but also encourage multiple purchases.

3. Optimize space usage

Maximize every inch of your retail space. Convert unused areas into engaging displays or interactive zones. For instance, transform an overlooked corner with a themed product display. Thoughtful space utilization can surprise and delight shoppers, boosting their interest and engagement. 

4. Embrace seasonal displays 

Let décor echo the seasons. For instance, in winter, a décor store might showcase festive arrangements. Such thematic setups can ignite shoppers’ festive spirit, prompting seasonal buys. A tip: Rotate your seasonal displays regularly to keep the shopping experience fresh and exciting. 

5. Ensure staff knowledge and presentation 

Your staff are part of the visual appeal. Ensure they’re well-presented, knowledgeable, and in line with the store’s vibe. For instance, in a high-end boutique, staff dressed in chic attire and offering personalized assistance complement the upscale ambiance. 

Win big with visual merchandising

Visual merchandising is more than just making your store look good. It’s about turning every corner of your shop into a conversation with your customers. Use the tips above to create effective store displays, and watch your foot traffic and sales soar to new heights.

Visual merchandising FAQ

What is the goal of visual merchandising .

The primary goal of visual merchandising is to catch a shopper’s eye. This makes them more likely to buy as they are drawn into an attractive and engaging product presentation.

What does a visual merchandiser do?

Visual merchandisers arrange product displays and set up the store layout to draw in customers and increase sales. Their expertise ensures that stores not only look appealing but also function effectively for both shoppers and retailers.

What are the 4 elements of visual merchandising?

• Interior display
• Store interior
• Store exterior
• Store layout

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What Is Visual Merchandising? The Basics You Need To Know

In eCommerce, visual merchandising is one of the most critical aspects of driving sales and building brand image. But what is visual merchandising, exactly? Simply put, it's the art and science of presenting products in a way that entices customers to buy. From product displays to store layout and design, visual merchandising encompasses a wide range of techniques that can make or break your online business.

Visual styling is significant in eCommerce because customers cannot physically touch or see products before purchasing them. Effective visual merchandising can help bridge this gap by creating an immersive online shopping experience that encourages customers to purchase confidently.

At its core, visual merchandising is all about creating a positive brand image. By presenting your products in an attractive and engaging way, you can build customer trust and establish your brand as a leader in your industry.

That's where Strikingly comes in. As a platform designed specifically for eCommerce businesses, Strikingly offers a range of tools and features to help merchants optimize their visual merchandising strategies for maximum impact.

What is Visual Merchandising?

Visual merchandising uses design, display, and presentation techniques to create an appealing shopping environment for customers. This can include everything from store layout and product placement to lighting and signage.

Image taken from Strikingly

Importance of Visual Merchandising in eCommerce

In online retail, effective visual merchandising is absolutely essential for driving sales and building customer loyalty. Creating an immersive shopping experience that engages customers on multiple levels can increase conversions and build lasting relationships with your audience.

How Visual Merchandising Affects Brand Image

Visual merchandising shapes customers' perceptions of your brand. By presenting your products attractively and engagingly, you can establish yourself as a leader in your industry while building trust and credibility with your audience.

Strikingly's Role in Visual Merchandising

Strikingly offers a range of tools and features to help merchants optimize their visual merchandising strategies for maximum impact. From customizable product displays to intuitive store design tools, Strikingly makes it easy to create an immersive shopping experience that drives sales and builds brand loyalty.

In the following sections, we'll explore some key components of effective visual merchandising and share tips and techniques for optimizing your strategy. Whether you're a seasoned visual merchandiser or just getting started, these insights will help you take your eCommerce business to the next level.

Understanding Visual Merchandising

Visual merchandising is the art of presenting products attractively and engagingly to entice customers to purchase. When you are learning what is visual merchandising, you have to know that It involves creating a visually appealing environment that showcases products in their best light.

The psychology behind visual merchandising is based on the idea that people are drawn to visually pleasing things. Using color , lighting, and layout, visual merchandisers can create an environment that appeals to customers' emotions and encourages them to buy.

Different visual merchandising techniques can be used depending on the product being sold and the target audience. Some examples include window displays, product displays, signage, and graphics.

The main types of visual merchandising include:

• Window displays - Displays in storefront windows to attract customers and showcase products. They convey the store's image and branding.
• Floor merchandising - Strategic product placement and displays on the sales floor. This includes feature areas, end caps, free-standing displays, and product groupings.
• Focal points - Prominent displays at the center or back of a store that draw the customer's attention. They highlight important products or sales.
• Signage - Includes banners, posters, pricing signs, and digital screens. Used to advertise products, sales, and events. Helps with wayfinding in the store.
• Mannequins - Life-size models used to display outfits or show how products can be used. They help to bring clothing and products to life.
• Props - Decorative elements used in displays like plants, books, decorative jars, baskets, etc. They help tie the display together and create visual interest.
• Fixtures - Permanent display units like racks, shelves, cabinets, and wall units used to contain and highlight products. They provide anchor points for the overall visual merchandising layout.
• Branding elements - Logos, shopping bags, gift cards, and packaging help create a cohesive brand experience for customers. Strengthens brand recognition and loyalty.
• Seasonal decor - Festive and themed decor used to highlight holidays and seasonal events. Helps to create an engaging ambiance that puts customers in the mood to shop.

Incorporating effective visual merchandising techniques can significantly benefit eCommerce businesses looking to learn ​​what is visual merchandising, and improve sales and customer satisfaction. Strikingly's eCommerce platform allows businesses to easily create and manage their online store with visually appealing design options.

Key Components of Visual Merchandising

Visual merchandising is an art form that involves the presentation of products in an aesthetically pleasing manner to encourage sales. When you are learning what is visual merchandising, you have to understand that this is a vital aspect of eCommerce and can significantly impact your brand image. Here are the elements of visual merchandising:

1. Store layout and design

The store layout and design are crucial to visual merchandising. How your store is laid out can influence how customers navigate it and perceive your brand. A well-designed store can make it easier for customers to find what they're looking for, while a poorly designed one can lead to confusion and frustration.

2. Product displays

Product displays are a critical aspect of visual merchandising. They should be arranged in such a way that they catch the eye of customers and encourage them to make a purchase. How you display your products can also reflect your brand's personality and values.

3. Lighting and color

Lighting and color are essential in visual merchandising because they create mood and atmosphere in your store or website. The right lighting can highlight specific products or areas of your store, while the wrong lighting can make everything look unappealing.

4. Signage and graphics

Signage and graphics are essential visual merchandising elements because they communicate important information about your products, sales, promotions, etc., to customers. They should be eye-catching, easy to read, and consistent with your brand's style.

As a visual merchandiser, you must consider all these key components when creating displays for eCommerce websites or physical stores.

Visual Merchandising Tips

To ensure that you're using these components effectively, here are some visual merchandising tips:

1) Keep it simple: Don't clutter up displays with too many products or decorations.

2) Use props: Props can add interest to displays without overwhelming them.

3) Use color: Color can create a mood and help highlight specific products.

4) Use lighting: Lighting can draw attention to specific products and add atmosphere.

5) Keep it clean: Make sure your displays are neat and tidy.

By following these tips, you can create visually appealing displays that will attract customers and encourage sales.

Techniques for Effective Visual Merchandising

Visual merchandising is not just about making your store look pretty; it's about creating an experience that will entice your target audience to buy your products . Here are some techniques to help you achieve effective visual merchandising:

1. Understanding your target audience

Before you start styling your store, it's essential to understand who your target audience is. This will help you create displays that will appeal to their interests and preferences. For example, if you're targeting millennials, you might want to use bright colors and trendy props.

2. Creating a focal point

A focal point is a display or area in your store that immediately catches the customer's attention. It should be eye-catching, well-lit, and prominently placed in the store. This could be a mannequin dressed in the latest fashion or a display of new products.

3. Promoting cross-selling and up-selling

Cross-selling and up-selling are techniques used to encourage customers to buy more products than they initially intended. You can do this by placing related products next to each other or suggesting complementary items at the checkout.

4. Regularly updating displays

Visual merchandising is not a one-time task; it requires regular updates to keep customers interested and engaged with your brand. You can change displays every few weeks or update them seasonally.

By incorporating these techniques into your visual merchandising strategy, you'll create an environment encouraging customers to buy more of what they love.

Measuring the Success of Visual Merchandising

As a beginner learning what is visual merchandising, you must know that it is a crucial aspect of eCommerce that can make or break your business. It is, therefore, essential to measure its success to ensure it achieves the desired results. There are several ways to measure the effectiveness of visual merchandising, including sales increase, customer feedback , and satisfaction, comparison with competitors, and analytics and data tracking.

1. Sales increase

One of the most obvious ways to measure the success of visual merchandising is through an increase in sales. Effective visual styling can attract customers and encourage them to make purchases. By tracking sales before and after implementing visual merchandising techniques, businesses can determine whether their efforts result in increased revenue.

2. Customer feedback and satisfaction

Another way to measure the success of visual merchandising is through customer feedback and satisfaction. By gathering customer feedback about their experience with your eCommerce website, you can determine whether your visual merchandising efforts resonate with your target audience. Positive feedback indicates that your visuals are effective in attracting and retaining customers.

3. Comparison with competitors

Comparing your eCommerce website's visual merchandising strategies with those of your competitors can also be an effective way to measure success. By analyzing what works for other businesses in your industry, you can identify areas where you may need improvement or find inspiration for new ideas to implement on your own website.

4. Analytics and data tracking

Finally, analytics and data tracking tools can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of your visual merchandising efforts. By monitoring metrics such as bounce rates, time spent on site, click-through rates, and conversion rates, you can better understand how customers interact with your eCommerce website's visuals.

Measuring the success of visual merchandising is essential when you are teaching yourself what is visual merchandising. Of course, visual merchandising is still the way to go if you want to improve your online presence.

By combining these methods, businesses can determine whether their visual merchandising efforts are achieving the desired results and make informed decisions about improving their strategies moving forward. As a visual merchandiser, staying up-to-date on the latest trends and tips is important to ensure that your eCommerce website stays ahead of the competition.

Challenges in Visual Merchandising

When learning what is visual merchandising, know that it is a powerful tool that can help your eCommerce business increase sales and improve brand image. However, like any other marketing strategy, it comes with its challenges. In this section, we'll discuss some of the most common challenges visual merchandisers face and how to overcome them.

1. Limited physical space

One of the biggest challenges in visual merchandising is limited physical space. eCommerce businesses often have to work with smaller spaces than traditional brick-and-mortar stores, making it difficult to create impactful displays.

To overcome this challenge, visual merchandisers need to be creative with their use of space. They should focus on creating visually appealing displays while also being functional and practical. This can be achieved by using modular displays or incorporating vertical elements such as shelves or hanging racks.

2. Adapting to seasonal changes

Another challenge in visual merchandising is adapting to seasonal changes. As the seasons change, so do customer preferences and buying habits . Visual merchandisers must stay up-to-date with these changes and adjust their displays accordingly.

To overcome this challenge, visual merchandisers should plan ahead and create a calendar that outlines key dates and events throughout the year. They should also keep an eye on industry trends and consumer behavior to ensure their displays are relevant and timely.

3. Budget constraints

Budget constraints are another common challenge faced by visual merchandisers. Creating impactful displays can be expensive, especially for small eCommerce businesses with limited resources.

Visual merchandisers should prioritize their spending based on what will have the biggest impact on sales. They should also look for cost-effective solutions such as DIY displays or repurposing existing materials.

4. Ensuring consistency across different channels

Finally, ensuring consistency across different channels can be a challenge for visual merchandisers. With the rise of omnichannel retailing, eCommerce businesses must ensure that their visual styling is consistent across all channels, including their website, social media, and physical stores.

When you are teaching yourself what is visual merchandising, you have to understand how to overcome this challenge. Visual merchandisers should create a style guide that outlines the critical elements of their visual merchandising strategy. This guide should be shared with all stakeholders and updated regularly to ensure consistency across all channels.

While visual merchandising can be a powerful tool for eCommerce businesses, it comes with its own challenges. Visual merchandisers can overcome these challenges and create impactful displays that drive sales and improve brand image by being creative with space, adapting to seasonal changes, prioritizing spending based on impact, and ensuring consistency across different channels.

Visual merchandising is a crucial aspect of eCommerce that involves using visual styling to attract and engage customers. Learning what is visual merchandising means understanding that it encompasses various elements, including store layout and design, product displays, lighting and color, signage and graphics. Effective visual merchandising can significantly impact a brand's image, increase sales, and improve customer satisfaction.

One of the benefits of effective visual merchandising is that it creates an immersive shopping experience for customers. Understanding your target audience and creating a focal point can capture their attention and promote cross-selling and up-selling. Regularly updating displays can also keep your store fresh and exciting.

Using Strikingly for eCommerce comes with several advantages for visual merchandisers. The platform offers customizable templates to create visually appealing websites without coding skills. You can also track analytics and data to measure the success of your visual merchandising efforts.

Visual merchandising is an essential aspect of eCommerce that requires careful planning and execution. By incorporating the right elements and techniques, you can create an immersive shopping experience for your customers that drives sales and improves brand image. With Strikingly's user-friendly platform, achieving effective visual merchandising has never been easier.

It only makes sense to sign up with us today and build your own eComerce website, correct?

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Visual Merchandising: Definition, Elements & Importance

The latest website statistics show that people have a very short attention span. Your first impression determines if a potential customer will move on or slow down to check out a product.

Smart business owners and marketers use visual merchandise to present products in a way that catches attention and entices potential customers.

If you want to improve sales and grow revenue, invest in visual merchandising, which features attractive window displays, captivating store signage, or other attractive displays.

In this article, we will look into the world of visual merchandising. We will explore its principles, impact, and the recent trends that keep it relevant in retail strategy.

What is Visual Merchandising?

Visual Merchandising is the strategic use of design elements and aesthetics to enhance the visual appeal of a retail space. It includes window displays, visual displays, and arrangements that make the retail environment attractive to the customers.

Planning is crucial to make the space within the retail stores visually appealing and functional.

History of Visual Merchandising

Visual merchandising traces its origins to the 1800s. ( BigCommerce ) This period was when retailers began to showcase their products beyond the confines of their shops.

In the late 1800s, department stores became famous because of the inclusion of stunning visual elements. Stores like Macy's, Bloomingdale's, and Marshall Fields contributed to the global evolution of merchandising.

A French retailer named Aristide Boucicaut in 1852 was the person to create the world's first department store called Le Bon Marché. ( Napoleon.org )

The idea was to create a town within a town for goods. The department store became a place to buy goods and enjoy an immersive experience.

Importance of Visual Styling & Merchandising

1. boosts sales and increases traffic.

The goal of visual merchandising is to make as many sales as possible. Using merchandising techniques can increase traffic and create a thriving retail environment. For example, visual merchandising display windows are the fastest way to boost sales by displaying products.

Visual styling and merchandising help capture attention, shape brand identity, influence purchase decisions, and create a memorable and profitable shopping experience.

If you are bent on maximizing sales and encouraging more customers to become loyal to your brand, your best bet is to use interactive displays stylishly.

With visual styling and merchandising, retailers can transform their stores' positive and negative spaces to design an attractive display. This transformation will leave a lasting and memorable impression on customers and increase sales.

2. Captures Attention

When trying to sell to a customer, the first thing to do is to capture shoppers' imagination via stunning product displays. In a retail setting, the visual appeal of the store's ambiance serves as the initial handshake. The easiest way to maximize sales is to pique a customer's interest first.

An example of attracting customer interest is having a store with attractive window displays and creative in-store layouts to encourage purchase.

You can use dark and light tones, allowing creative freedom that results in pleasing and conducive environments that attract and retain the gaze of customers. In addition, marquees, banners, and awnings give off a warm and colorful touch to your in-store visual display.

3. Effective Communication

Visual styling serves as a powerful communication tool. Retailers can effectively convey the brand's identity, values, and critical messages to customers through carefully curated displays and merchandising techniques.

Tools like point-of-sale screens and a light control system help display and communicate with customers compellingly and captivatingly. Displayed merchandise helps create a deeper connection between the brand and its audience.

Ensure you avoid creating overwhelming displays to keep potential on track and communicate the right message, affecting the customer's perception.

Visual merchandising displays help communicate the message that potential customers will understand without hassle.

4. Encourage Brand Loyalty

Retailers use visual styling and merchandising to present their unique brand message to their target audience . Let’s take the global brand Nike as an example. Nike is popular for its unique tagline, “Just Do It,” and its trademark logo.

Shoppers who enjoy their in-store experience in any Nike shopping outlet will easily remain loyal to the brand because of its unique brand messaging.

Elements of Visual Merchandising

Visual merchandising is a tool retailers use to make their stores more attractive and better. Using visual merchandising helps give customers a memorable experience.

By strategically integrating the interior and exterior elements, businesses can effectively capture the imagination of shoppers and drive customer loyalty.

We will explore the elements of visual merchandising and delve into how each element contributes to the overall success of a store.

Interior Elements of Visual Merchandising

1. store layout & planogram.

The layout and planogram of a store dictate the arrangement of products and displays. Careful consideration is given to strategically placing high-impact displays and merchandise to optimize visibility and accessibility.

By curating a well-executed planogram, retailers ensure that the store tells a compelling story, guiding customers through a curated journey.

2. Store Design

The foundation of a captivating shopping environment lies in store design. Your store designing process involves creating a layout that maximizes space, facilitates a seamless customer journey, and optimizes traffic flow.

Considering factors like product placement, traffic flow, and ambiance, a well-designed store entices customers to explore every corner.

In most cases, your customer journey begins at the visual merchandising display windows where all they can have a sneak peek of the various products. The quality of your store design will increase your chances of closing sales.

3. Display Space

Display space serves as the canvas on which the visual story unfolds. Effective use of display space involves showcasing products in a way that captures attention and highlights their unique features.

Varying heights, groupings, and focal points, retailers create visually appealing displays that invite customers to engage with the merchandise.

The area between where you display your products and the ceiling is usually an empty space in most stores. You can use this area to display visual merchandising and signage to boost your product’s appeal.

4. Lighting

Lighting is vital in influencing the mood and atmosphere of a store. Specific colors and light shades are mood-altering and influence purchase decisions.

Attracting customer interest is one of the advantages of using flashy lights for in-store displays. Strategic lighting draws attention to product attributes and details and influences customers' perception of the store's display.

With bright and warm lighting, you can create an inviting, cozy atmosphere that encourages purchase decisions.

Colors serve as influencers of customer perception and a key brand element for a cohesive identity . A deliberately chosen color palette evokes emotions and reinforces brand identity.

According to branding statistics , color increases brand recognition by 80%. The strategic use of colors in visual merchandising creates a harmonious and visually appealing environment, making the shopping experience more enjoyable.

6. Materials

The choice of materials in visual merchandising contributes to the overall aesthetic and brand image. From fixtures and shelving to the materials used in displays, each element should align with the store's theme and convey a cohesive message to customers.

Signage is a visual communication tool that guides customers and reinforces the store's brand identity. Using concise and aesthetically pleasing signage enhances the overall shopping experience.

Exterior Elements of Visual Merchandising

The window display is the initial contact point between a store and its potential customers. A well-curated display in real-life window settings can capture the imagination of passersby, enticing them to step inside. It acts as a preview of the unique offerings within the store.

2. Store Front

Attention to detail, such as promotional displays and pop-up stores in the front of the stores, can create a dynamic and inviting entrance.

An attractive, well-maintained exterior encourages customers to explore the store's offerings while leaving a lasting impression.

3. Circular Store Layout

Implementing a circular store layout is a fundamental exterior element of visual merchandising that aims to direct customers seamlessly through the retail space. This layout enhances the overall customer experience and encourages exploration and discovery.

4. Installing Digital Screens

Incorporating digital screens on the exterior of the retail space is a strategic move in visual merchandising.

These digital signage elements serve as dynamic tools to illuminate critical attributes of products. With a well put-together-screen, you can communicate promotions and reinforce the unique brand message, contributing to a memorable customer experience.

5. Point of Purchase Displays

Well-designed point-of-purchase displays strategically placed at the entrance and in specific areas capture customers' attention.

These displays, featuring as many visually striking elements as possible, showcase merchandise highlights and contribute significantly to the visual merchandising elements, ultimately enhancing the customer experience.

6. Window Displays

Window displays are crucial for creating a visually appealing first impression. These displays, aligned with the visual merchandising strategy, effectively communicate the brand's identity , engaging potential or current customers and setting the tone for the overall retail experience.

7. Unique Brand Message

Conveying a unique brand message through exterior elements is integral to visual merchandising.

Whether through window displays, digital screens, or point-of-purchase displays, establishing a distinct brand identity contributes to a memorable customer experience and reinforces the brand's image.

8. Optimized Visual Merchandising Elements

Incorporating various visual merchandising elements, such as color schemes, lighting, and spatial design, ensures a cohesive and visually appealing exterior for the retail space. This optimization further enhances the overall impact on potential or current customers.

9. Engaging Digital Signage

Digital signage helps to illuminate specific product attributes and engages customers with dynamic content. This interactive element contributes to a more immersive retail space, aligning with the visual merchandising strategy to leave a lasting impression on customers.

Visual Merchandising Examples

1. hackett london.

Hackett London is a fancy shop that sells nice suits for men. They set up a fantastic window display with tiny figures working on a suit to show off their hard work. It's like a little scene that says, “Hey, we put a lot of effort into making awesome suits!”

This suit brand strategically utilized the space within the storefront windows to create eye-catching scenes that attract customers passing by. So, if you get a suit from Hackett London, you can be sure it's stylish and well-made.

Adidas is famous for its designs, and the London shop is no exception. They have cool cabinets that can move around, and you can find them on every floor.

But the best part is the high-tech displays that show how they make their stuff. It is like a mini-movie about their products and sticks in your head when you see it.

These displays showcase the Merchandise and invite customers to interact, capturing their interest more profoundly. This shop is not just about selling shoes and clothes. It is about telling a story!

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Retail Industry Knowledge Base

The Ultimate Guide to Visual Merchandising

Eric Walker

Visual merchandising is a powerful tool that retailers use to create an engaging and visually appealing shopping experience for their customers. It involves the strategic placement of products, signage, and displays to attract attention, highlight key features, and ultimately drive sales. In this ultimate guide to visual merchandising, we will explore the key principles, strategies, and techniques that can help you become a successful visual merchandiser.

Understanding the Importance of Visual Merchandising

Visual merchandising is a crucial aspect of retail marketing that involves creating visually appealing displays to attract and engage customers. It is the art of presenting products in a way that not only showcases their features but also tells a story and evokes emotions. Understanding the importance of visual merchandising is essential for retailers to effectively communicate their brand message, enhance the shopping experience, and ultimately drive sales.

First and foremost, visual merchandising plays a key role in capturing customer attention . With the ever-increasing competition in the retail industry, it is essential for businesses to stand out from the crowd. Eye-catching displays, creative arrangements, and compelling product presentations are all elements of visual merchandising that can help grab the attention of potential customers and entice them to explore further.

Brand Identity and Values

Moreover, visual merchandising helps retailers communicate their brand identity and values . By carefully curating displays that align with their brand image, retailers can create a cohesive and memorable shopping experience. For example, a luxury brand may use elegant and sophisticated displays to convey a sense of exclusivity, while a sustainable brand may focus on using eco-friendly materials and earthy tones.

In addition to attracting customers and communicating brand identity , visual merchandising also enhances the overall shopping experience. A well-designed store layout and visually appealing displays can create a pleasant and inviting atmosphere for shoppers. It can help customers navigate through the store easily, discover new products, and make informed purchasing decisions.

Direct Impact on Sales

Furthermore, visual merchandising has a direct impact on sales . A study conducted by the National Retail Federation found that 55% of consumers make unplanned purchases based on what they see in-store. Effective visual merchandising techniques such as product grouping, color coordination, and strategic placement can influence customer buying behavior and encourage impulse purchases.

Lastly, visual merchandising allows retailers to showcase the unique features and benefits of their products. Through creative displays, retailers can highlight the functionality, quality, and value of their offerings. This not only helps customers understand the product better but also builds trust and confidence in their purchase decision.

Key Principles of Visual Merchandising

To ensure effective visual merchandising, several key principles should be considered:

Layout and Flow: The layout of a store plays a crucial role in guiding customers through the space. A well-designed floor plan ensures a smooth flow of traffic, allowing customers to easily navigate and explore different product areas. It is important to create clear pathways and avoid clutter to promote a seamless shopping experience.

Window Display: The storefront window is a powerful tool for attracting potential customers. A captivating window display should convey the brand’s identity, showcase featured products, and create curiosity. It should be visually appealing, well-lit, and regularly updated to capture attention and entice people into the store.

Color and Lighting: The use of color and lighting can greatly influence the mood and atmosphere of a retail space. Carefully chosen color schemes can evoke emotions and enhance the overall shopping experience. Lighting should be bright enough to highlight products but also create a warm and welcoming ambiance.

Visual Hierarchy

Visual hierarchy refers to the arrangement of products based on their importance or desired focus. By using different display techniques such as size, color, and positioning, retailers can guide customers’ attention towards specific products or promotions. The most attractive and high-value items should be prominently displayed to maximize sales.

Signage and Graphics

Clear and well-designed signage is essential for effective communication with customers. Signage should provide information about products, prices, promotions, and store policies. Eye-catching graphics and typography can also enhance the overall visual appeal of the store.

Seasonal Themes

Incorporating seasonal themes into visual merchandising can create excitement and encourage impulse buying. Retailers can use appropriate decorations, colors, and props to align with holidays, festivals, or changing seasons. This helps to create a sense of urgency and encourages customers to make purchases.

Interactive Displays

Engaging customers through interactive displays can enhance their shopping experience and increase their time spent in-store. This can include touchscreens, virtual reality experiences, or product demonstrations that allow customers to interact with the merchandise.

Storytelling

Visual merchandising is an opportunity to tell a story and connect with customers on an emotional level. By creating cohesive displays that align with the brand’s narrative, retailers can build a unique identity and foster a sense of loyalty among customers.

Effective Visual Merchandising Strategies

Now that we understand the key principles of visual merchandising, let’s explore some effective strategies that can help you create compelling displays:

1. Window Displays

Window displays are your first opportunity to capture customers’ attention and entice them into your store. Create visually stunning displays that showcase your best products and reflect your brand identity.

2. Feature Displays

Feature displays are strategically positioned within the store to highlight specific products or promotions . Use creative props, signage, and lighting to draw attention to these displays.

3. Color Blocking

Color blocking involves grouping products of similar colors together to create a visually impactful display. This technique can create a sense of harmony and make your products stand out.

4. Storytelling Displays

Create displays that tell a story or evoke a specific theme. This can help create an emotional connection with customers, making them more likely to engage with your products.

5. Interactive Displays

Interactive displays encourage customer engagement and interaction. Incorporate elements such as touch screens, virtual reality, or product demonstrations to create a memorable experience.

6. Seasonal Displays

Seasonal displays are a great way to create excitement and showcase relevant products. Use seasonal props, colors, and themes to create visually appealing displays that align with current trends.

Tools and Techniques for Visual Merchandisers

As a visual merchandiser, there are various tools and techniques that can help you execute your vision effectively.

One of the most fundamental tools for visual merchandisers is a planogram . A planogram is a visual representation that outlines the placement of products within a store to optimize sales and maximize space utilization. By following a planogram, visual merchandisers can strategically position products, create eye-catching displays, and guide customers on their shopping journey.

Another essential tool for visual merchandisers is lighting. Lighting plays a significant role in highlighting products, creating ambiance, and influencing customer perception. By utilizing different lighting techniques, such as spotlighting or backlighting, visual merchandisers can draw attention to specific areas or products, enhance the overall atmosphere, and create a memorable shopping experience.

In addition to planograms and lighting, visual merchandisers also utilize props and displays. Props are objects used to enhance the visual appeal of a display and create a theme or narrative. They can range from mannequins and signage to furniture and artwork. Displays, on the other hand, are carefully arranged product presentations that showcase merchandise in an attractive and organized manner.

By incorporating props and displays, visual merchandisers can create visually captivating scenes that capture customers’ attention and encourage them to explore further.

Furthermore, technology has become an increasingly important tool for visual merchandisers . Digital signage, interactive displays, and virtual reality are just a few examples of how technology is revolutionizing the field. These tools allow visual merchandisers to create dynamic and interactive experiences, personalize messaging, and gather valuable customer data for future decision-making.

Jewellery Industry is hiring Merchandisers for the Retail or Design Teams in Manufacturing companies. Understanding the role and having previous experience with Merchandising or Design will help you land a job.

Visual Merchandiser Online Course

A Visual Merchandiser Online Course is a comprehensive program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills required to excel in the field of visual merchandising. This course provides a flexible and convenient learning experience, allowing participants to study at their own pace from anywhere in the world.

The course covers a wide range of topics related to visual merchandising, including understanding consumer behavior, creating effective window displays, designing store layouts, and implementing strategic visual merchandising techniques. Participants will learn how to use color, lighting, and props to create visually appealing displays that attract and engage customers.

One of the key advantages of an online course is the ability to access a wealth of resources and materials, including video lectures, interactive quizzes, and case studies. Participants will also have the opportunity to collaborate with other students and receive feedback from experienced instructors.

Upon completion of the course, participants will have gained the necessary skills to pursue a career as a visual merchandiser in various industries such as retail, fashion, and interior design. They will be equipped with the knowledge and techniques to effectively communicate brand messages and drive sales through visually compelling displays.

Visual merchandising is an art form that requires creativity, strategic thinking, and attention to detail. By understanding the key principles, strategies, and techniques outlined in this ultimate guide, you can elevate your visual merchandising skills and create captivating displays that leave a lasting impression on customers. Remember, effective visual merchandising is not just about making products look good; it’s about creating an experience that engages customers and drives sales. So go ahead, unleash your creativity, and transform your retail space into a visual masterpiece!

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Visual Merchandising: The Complete Guide For Modern Retail

Visual merchandising techniques seem straightforward, but you must find the precise combination that matches your brand and shoppers to drive revenue..

March 15, 2021

This article offers a complete guide to modern visual merchandising, from color choice to storefront layout. It will also link to Resonai guides with additional best practices and advanced guidelines.

Jump to a section

Visual merchandising 101

Display windows, interior displays, point-of-purchase displays, seasonal displays, category displays, interactive displays, e-commerce and in-app storefronts, the best practices of visual merchandising, make effective use of light and color, communicate details with signs, always avoid clutter, store layout as visual merchandising, herringbone.

How to visualize your visual merchandising

Visual merchandising is the strategy of displaying products and services in an optimal manner, engaging potential customers and encouraging them to complete a purchase. For retailers, the goal is to present items in such a way that shoppers will understand their appeal in a single glance. Whatever the channel, visual merchandising increases the likelihood of attracting new customers, driving additional sales, and distinguishing your business from the competition.

Visual merchandising is a common practice in brick-and-mortar retail, but it can take place anywhere. Even direct-to-consumer brands can apply these techniques to e-commerce websites, in-app storefronts, or digital marketing campaigns. Here are a few types of visual merchandising that shoppers will be familiar with:

Display windows catch the attention of potential customers at the street level to draw them into the store. They often help retailers highlight new stock and promotions while communicating the kinds of products shoppers can expect upon entering.

Interior displays are smaller, in-store presentations that showcase specific products or shopper needs. They can take many forms, from glass cases containing jewelry to mannequins displaying clothing items.

Point-of-purchase displays present impulse offers to customers as they approach the checkout counter. For example, supermarkets have specialized shelving for magazines, candy, or soda. Some retailers also feature a “deal of the day” display that a cashier can retrieve upon request.

Seasonal products often require specialized promotions and signage. Seasonal displays meet these needs by showcasing promotions and products that shoppers need within a specific timeframe. Some common examples include summer swimwear, back-to-school promotions, or elaborate Christmas decorations.

Many retailers arrange products by category in ways that highlight distinct features. In a grocery store, openly displaying fruit and vegetables emphasizes their freshness compared to other packaged goods.

Many displays can engage shopper attention directly. In-store demonstrations and free samples accomplish this by encouraging customers to interact with them in passing.

In the 2020s, the cutting edge of visual merchandising uses technology to enhance the shopping experience. For example, retailers can use display screens that give directions or showcase promotional items. Many others leverage AR apps so that shoppers can visualize what a product looks like in their immediate surroundings.

Many of your customers may not enter brick-and-mortar stores at all, but visual merchandising still applies to online shopping. E-commerce product listings typically include screenshots of products, link to similar items, or notify customers about promotional coupons. Retailers cannot afford to overlook visual merchandising techniques that will make their shopping apps and websites more appealing to visitors.

Take a look at Resonai’s “ What is Visual Merchandising? ” for more introductory strategies.

Given the visual nature of visual merchandising, it’s no surprise that light and color are significant ingredients to draw from. According to one retailer, simply updating the lighting fixtures increased their sales by 12%. Color, on the other hand, is effective at communicating subtle details . Do you want your promotion to evoke passion? Red will help. Want to emphasize sustainability? Go with green. Looking to calm things down a notch? Use blue.

That all being said, sometimes a lack of light or color can have a surprising impact. Spotlights can help customers focus on certain products. Meanwhile, framing products with specific colors can help contextual details pop out. Always experiment to find the best approach for your brand and product.

Color is great for creating a mood, but it can’t present shoppers with facts. Signage is immensely helpful when communicating specific details that might help shoppers choose between different products. The key is placing signs in ways that supplement the product without disrupting the overall presentation. The following are some excellent examples:

• Banners: Hanging banners is an excellent technique for grouping related products together. Consider using them to promote seasonal sales or direct attention to each in-store category.
• Stickers: With a well-placed sticker, you can communicate item specifics that aren’t featured on the packaging. Discounts and two-for-one deals are common, but don’t feel restricted to them. For example, bookstores also use stickers to promote staff favorites.
• Digital screens: As discussed above, technology can add a layer of interactivity and practicality to visual merchandising. Digital signs can be beneficial navigation tools or a way to look up frequently asked questions.

Making effective use of floor space is a vital technique — there’s a big difference between subtly communicating that items are in stock and packing a shelf until it’s overflowing! Unless you’re a warehouse-style retailer like Costco, give your visual merchandising displays a little extra room to breathe. Retailers can use the space around a product display for signs instead of additional items.

Outside of visual aesthetics, minimal displays have other benefits. In the wake of COVID-19, many retailers are reducing shelf space and cutting back on the number of display areas. By making the best use of limited space, it’s easier to implement social distancing practices. To make up the difference, consider digital signs or AR technology that present all items from a local screen.

For advanced visual merchandising techniques, read “ 4 Visual Merchandising Strategies for 2021 .”

While there is no one correct way to handle store layout, you’ll want to be mindful of shopper expectations for your industry. Here are some common examples:

Perhaps the most recognizable store layout is the grid, where products fit into densely-packed aisles. This technique is common in supermarkets, grocery stores, pharmacies, and many more. Grids benefit retail locations that need to maximize merchandise on display while supporting optimal foot traffic.

While grids are useful in large retail stores, they tend to feel overcrowded in smaller locations. The herringbone grid variant opens up the floor with a central pathway to the checkout that branches into grids on each size. It even creates opportunities for interior displays at aisle entrances, although they can limit the visibility of products within each aisle.

Loops guide customers along a fixed path to see all products and categories before reaching the checkout counters. This layout maximizes product visibility and streamlines customer traffic but can disrupt a casual browsing experience. Loops are often found in museums and gift shops, although some retailers like IKEA were able to implement them successfully.

Free-flow layouts arrange products and displays in any pattern that leaves room for customers to browse comfortably. This style avoids structured aisles to focus on category clusters that remain visible from the store entrance. While free-form layouts are the most flexible approach, they do require an overarching structure to be successful. These patterns are often dictated by human behavior — for example, since 90% of shoppers turn right upon entering a store, retailers can place high-value promotions within this area.

To learn more about store layouts and design, take a look at “ Retail Store Layout: Designing for Maximum Revenue .”

How to level up your visual merchandising

Each element of a visual merchandising strategy may appear straightforward, but combining them in ways that appeal to shoppers is a challenge. One solution is to adopt AR tools that help retailers visualize, analyze, and experiment with different layouts. And that’s where Vera can help.

Vera is Resonai’s augmented reality platform for enterprises. Using Vera, retailers can create 1:1 digital representations of their stores, right down to individual products on the shelf. From there, it’s possible to run scenarios, analyze traffic, and make audiovisual adjustments to lighting or color on the fly. A Vera-powered supplemental app will also let retailers review data and real-time feedback when making updates to layouts.

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With Resonai, it’s easier than ever to generate visual merchandising strategies that will thrill and engage your shoppers. If you want to know more about Vera, get in touch to set up a free demonstration.

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10 key principles of visual merchandising for a retail store by Sarah Manning, Visual Merchandising Courses & Consultancy

19 May 2023

Ankorstart have partnered with Sarah Manning at VMC to offer our retailers support and advice with Visual Merchandising & Window Dressing. Sarah has written these top 10 tips for applying effective Visual Merchandising throughout your store.

The visual merchandising principles

The window dressing principles, the eyeline level, the use of colors, connecting your physical and digital window, the hot spot, wall and table merchandising, the back areas, conducting a customer flow exercise, the importance of a peaceful ambience.

My top recommendation to my retailers and students is to obtain an understanding of how to apply the four Visual Merchandising principles, which include the presentation methods Symmetrical, Asymmetrical, Repetition and Alternation. These principles can be applied to your window space, in store Visual Merchandising and to E-Commerce Retail. These principles are my “toolbox” to assisting me with my own Visual Merchandising work! Some retailers may choose to work with a specific principle which would be best suited to their brand style but have in mind that all four principles can be used with any type of merchandise.

Symmetrical – A pyramid, creating a mirror image and balance either side. Top of the pyramid to be positioned at the eyeline level of your customer. Asymmetrical – A half pyramid graduating either towards the left or right. When using within a window, ensure the graduation takes your customers eye towards the store entrance. Repetition – The use of odd numbers, groups of 3 being most popular, creating a central focal point. Repeating a consistent pattern. Alternation – An alternating pattern which assists our customers eyes flow through the composition with ease

Use the principles, Symmetrical, Asymmetrical, Repetition and Alternation for window dressing and creating displays. However, when applying these principles to product merchandising consider using Symmetrical, Repetition and Alternation only. The Asymmetric principle is not effective within product merchandising due to this being a display method – where merchandise feels too over dressed for the customer to feel comfortable with shopping from a space where this principle has been applied.

When creating your shop window display, consider your customer profile and brand style to create a strong, consistent message for the customer. The average turnaround time scale of a store window is 4-8 weeks, this helps to create regular newness for your customer.

Remember to create impactful eyeline level height within your window, the principles of Symmetrical and Asymmetrical pyramids will help you to achieve this. The top of your pyramid should reach the eyeline of your customer whilst they are passing by your window, this location is referred to as a “focal point.” Your focal point should feature a brand, product, or message which you would like to highlight to your customer first, this is your priority location within your window, a location where your customer will focus upon first.

Consider the use of colour within your window. Colours which connect us back to nature or have a positive mood boasting quality have become popular over the past couple of years. I would recommend looking at trend forecasting companies; WGSN and Trend Bible for colour trends and pantone references of the season. I feel using a colour palate of three key colours and using them consistently throughout the display composition always seems to create a stronger impact.

Connect your physical store window to your digital channels by applying a vinyl QR code on the window front. This will assist with connecting both physical and digital channels and also offer the possibility of 24/7 purchases. Your E-Commerce homepage header banner should act like your digital shop window, so mirror the same campaigns and messages which you are highlighting within your store window within your header banner and social posts.

Create a connection to your window campaign by creating a hot spot space at the front of your shopfloor. Your hot spot should be the first location that customers see as they come into your store, most retailers position their hotspots within the central area at the front of their stores.

The hot spot space should mirror the campaign highlighted within your window. Ensure the same range of merchandise is displayed within this area, you can also include any props, signage and POS which are also used within the window to connect the two spaces. Your hot spot should be changed in line with any window changes.

It is important that your customers can shop your merchandise with ease and gain inspiration through link selling. My tip to presenting merchandise on a wall bay or table fixture is to consider the Symmetrical layout.

For a wall bay use a variety of equipment; shelving, front hanging bars and side hanging bars and install this creating a Symmetrical template. When creating a Symmetrical formation, it assists our customers to look at a space with ease and for their eye to focus upon the merchandise more effectively when shopping.

For table merchandising, consider creating a pyramid shape, which involves creating central height. This should bring the middle area of the table up to the customers eyeline level. As example, height can be created by using a mannequin bust form, platforms, or wooden crates.

Increase your possibilities of link selling by merchandising associated product lines together, this also helps to create customer inspiration whilst they shop and helps to create ideas of how customers can put or use those products together within an outfit or within their home.

It can often be a challenge to encourage your customers to shop within the back areas of your shopfloor space! You may have noticed that many retailers position their popular product lines towards the back areas of their store, this would include product lines that they know most of their customers always come into purchase. You will also see service areas located within the back of the store too, these could include changing rooms, click and collect/ customer services and hospitality spaces. Therefore, consider which product lines or departments will draw your customers to the typically quiet back spaces?

Within the front areas of your shopfloor, you should feature your hot spot and new collections, these are product lines that you would like to prioritise highlighting to your customer, but they are not product lines that customers have necessarily come into store to buy.

I was introduced to the concept of Customer Flow exercises whilst working within the Visual Merchandising team at Selfridges and I have used this customer mapping exercise within my own work ever since. A customer flow exercise is an extremely helpful exercise to assist with understanding the customer flow within your shopfloor space, it also helps us to re-evaluate where the opportunities are for us to improve upon our store layout and product locations.

The exercise involves us mapping on the customer activity onto a bird’s eye floor plan. I would recommend mapping on the journeys of five customers on your map, using a different coloured pen for each customer. Create a key to mark on the areas where your customers have paused to look at the merchandise and those areas where you saw a product picked up to purchase. Once you have marked on their journeys within your store floorplan, you will notice a pattern. Review your store plan to evaluate if all areas of your shopfloor are being accessed by your customers?

Creating a peaceful ambience in your store has never been more important and we have seen retailers adjusting the ambience within their stores over the past couple of years, which has helped to encourage customers to come back to our high streets to shop. It is important to create a safe space for your customer, somewhere that they will want to spend more time browsing. We have seen a key trend in reconnecting to nature, using more natural colour tones, natural textures, and natural lighting to create a more calming and inviting environment.

Creating a multi-sensory experience for the customer has also been seen across our retailers, where they are not just creating a shopping experience but also a sensory experience for their customers. We have seen an introduction of an increase of hospitality experiences, craft, and mindfulness classes as well as Pop Up Shop retail concepts making their way into stores to combine with the customer’s shopping experience.

These are my current top 10 principles which I discuss on my courses & workshop s and apply practically within my retailers’ stores.

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The Ultimate Guide to Visual Merchandising [Examples]

Melissa Sonntag

90% of information sent to the brain is visual . This means that when it comes to selling at retail, the way you present your product will notably influence buyer decision making. So how do you make sure that every time a shopper passes through your aisle, they reach for your product instead of your competitor’s? The answer is visual merchandising.

Visual merchandising is the retail practice of designing in-store displays that will catch the shopper’s eye and increase sales. A good visual merchandising strategy involves multiple different components. In this blog post, we will go through everything you need to know about visual merchandising: what it is, who does it, tips, techniques, and examples. To jump to any part of the guide, use the table of contents!

What is Visual Merchandising?

Who does visual merchandising, collecting and analyzing merchandising data, visual merchandising techniques of 2019.

• Visual Merchandising Dos and Don'ts

Visual Merchandising Examples

Visual merchandising is the retail practice of designing and executing in-store displays in order to engage shoppers and increase sales.

Visual merchandising takes into account how your products come across to consumers as they interact with them in a retail setting, and applies certain techniques to make those interactions as impactful as possible. When it comes to in-store merchandising, organizing products, analyzing merchandising data, and executing promotional displays are just a few tasks merchandisers carry out.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Lush Cosmetics North America (@lushcosmetics) on Nov 15, 2018 at 7:06am PST

Example of Lush Cosmetics' unique in-store merchandising  

Any brand selling a product at retail carries out visual merchandising campaigns. In addition to brands that carry out their own merchandising activities, many retailers also engage in merchandising, as they have the insight into the inner workings of their own store and are well-versed on what works and what doesn’t for their customers. Brands use visual merchandising across many retail categories, such as apparel merchandising, grocery merchandising, and beer or wine merchandising.

Visual Merchandiser Job Description

Visual merchandising jobs are plentiful as a visual merchandiser has an extremely important role to play. The in-store decisions they make have a direct effect on sales, so visual merchandisers should be well organized, creative, and have an eye for detail. They monitor product appearance on the shelf in various stores throughout their designated territory. By working closely with suppliers, retailers, and manufacturers, they make certain that the placement and promotion of specific products will have a measurable impact on sales.

Some responsibilities included in a typical   visual merchandiser job description   include:

• Collaborating with suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers to ensure proper execution of merchandising plans
• Ensuring retailer compliance with merchandising strategies
• Creating and organizing in-store promotions and advertising campaigns
• Maintaining inventory of products
• Gathering information on market trends and customers’ reactions to products
• Analyzing sales data — reporting growth, expansion, and change in markets

As mentioned, a visual merchandiser has the responsibility of collecting and analyzing retail data. While merchandisers should have a good understanding of all   three types of retail execution data   (Activity Data, Sales Data, and Observational Data), merchandising data most often falls under Observational Data: Store-level data that merchandising teams observe and record about their product in retail locations, such as the condition of displays or position on the shelf.

The point of collecting this data is so that you can plug it into a   cycle of continuous improvement   that takes into account a wide range of factors. You can then derive insights from this data to inform future merchandising strategies.

An example of this would be observing a difference in sales between a retailer where you occupy a bottom shelf vs. a retailer where you occupy an eye-level shelf. While common sense tells us that eye-level shelves equal more sales, you may find after analyzing the data that the increase in sales is pretty small compared to investing in POP displays within the store. Thus, paying close attention to merchandising data helps you make better-informed decisions in the future.

      View this post on Instagram     Our static shelving in natural pine so suits wine retail. Liking the blackboard pricing strip👍 #lundia_nz #retailshelving #retailers #wine #spirits #retaildisplay #enjoygoodwine A post shared by LUNDIA (@lundia_nz) on Jul 2, 2017 at 4:22pm PDT

Now that we have a grasp on the basics of visual merchandising, we can get into some of the tips and tricks of the trade. There are several   visual merchandising tactics   that brands can use to drive shoppers to purchase. Below, we’ve gathered some of the top visual merchandising trends for 2019 to give you some ideas of what consumers are looking for from a brand.

Interactive Displays

Utilizing interactive displays is a fantastic way to engage customers who otherwise may just pass by your product. Interactive displays can incorporate high or low tech experiences; Some brands may have the budget to include a screen with a standalone display that shoppers can play brand-based games on or explore a company’s story.

If this isn’t feasible for your business, fret not -- there are plenty of interactive experiences you can design that won’t break the bank. Consider creating a 3D display with a pair of glasses tethered to the shelf to be reused. Or, set up a “Wheel of Fortune” game with your display that customers can win discounts with.

Incorporating Art

There is no shortage of amazing artists out there ready to collaborate with businesses on creative advertising campaigns. By incorporating art into your visual displays, you’ll draw in customers by standing out in the crowd. Different ways of doing this include integrating art into your product packaging, organizing products in a unique way, or designing exclusive posters and signage. Not only will shoppers be impressed by the creativity of your brand — the visuals will also stick with them far beyond the conclusion of their shopping trip.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Paul James (@plittle88) on Feb 5, 2019 at 12:18pm PST

This Coca-Cola display is sure to draw attention  

Window Displays

Scoring a window display is a real advantage for brands. The window display is the first impression shoppers have — both of the retailer and of your product — when walking into or past the store. They also provide an opportunity to promote any special sales or offers on your product. Get creative with window displays and attract the customers' attention with more than just a presentation of your product. Important aspects of a window display encompass creating a pleasant ambience through lighting and color schemes, including signage, and a design that supports your product narrative.

Cross Merchandising

Cross merchandising   is a strategy that boosts sales by placing complementary items alongside one another in stores. There are many classic cross merchandising examples, such as putting ketchup and mustard next to hamburger buns, placing dog food next to food dishes, and setting Halloween candy next to trick-or-treating buckets. For some brands, there is an opportunity for cross merchandising within their own product portfolio. For companies without this advantage, working with other brands can be a great option. Talk to other brands and store managers and introduce the idea of collaborating on a cross merchandising display.

POP Displays

POP displays — which stands for “point of purchase” — capitalize on the impulses of shoppers to maximize sales. Point of purchase is defined as “the location or medium at which a product is purchased by an end-user.” A common misconception is that point of purchase refers only to space within the store where the transfer of money for the goods occurs, such as the register. Point of purchase can be broader than this and actually accounts for the entire store. Some common POP displays include shelf talkers, dump bins, and free standing displays. These 30 different   POP display examples   are sure to provide some inspiration when planning your next merchandising display investment.

Rule of Three

Three is the magic number when grouping products in a display. Not only does it catch the customer’s attention, but it also helps cement the product display in the customer’s mind. This is why many visual merchandising experts follow and preach the “Rule of Three.” If grouping by height, have short, medium, and tall. If by width, narrow, medium, and wide. If you truly want to capture the attention of price-conscious customers, arrange items in order from good, better, and best value to the customer.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Coolio International (@coolio_international) on Sep 4, 2018 at 12:11am PDT

An example of multiple visual merchandising techniques  

Visual Merchandising Dos and Don’ts

While memorable visual merchandising is the goal of your merchandising strategy, you want customers to remember your brand for all of the   right   reasons. Keeping in mind the techniques listed out above, it is important during execution that your team isn’t going overboard or putting too much emphasis on the wrong components of a retail display. Here are a few dos and don’ts for balanced merchandising:

• Do   make constant check-ins to your displays after they are established. A merchandiser’s job does not end at simply putting the products where they need to be; it extends far beyond the initial set up. Periodic check-ins will help ensure retailer compliance.
• Don’t   go overboard on visuals. While you certainly want to captivate the attention of your audience, you don’t want them to be overwhelmed by your displays. Tying in too many colors or elements to a visual display can distract customers from the actual product and miss the point of your merchandising efforts.
• Do   test before you invest. When it comes to creating novel merchandising, there is a lot of time and money that goes into any campaign. Before making the jump into something that may not provide the ROI you expect, start small by testing a display in one or two locations before deciding to spread it into all of your stores.
• Don’t   give shoppers information overload. If you include words on your displays or signage, try to use minimalist messaging by only addressing the most important things you want to get across to the consumer. Chances are, you’ll have a lot of shoppers that only momentarily glance at the text as they walk by, so having too much of it can create missed opportunities for engagement.

When devising your next visual merchandising campaign, it can be difficult to come up with a winning retail display idea off the top of your head. We’ve collected some of the most inventive and well-executed visual merchandising examples for you to get some inspiration.

Creative Window Display

This creative Valentine’s Day window display showcases various apparel items in a way that subliminally markets to passersby.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by VitrineVM Visual Merchandising (@vitrinevm) on Feb 14, 2019 at 11:33am PST

Here we see a fantastic cross merchandising display. Pairing the cookbooks with ingredients on the shelf is a power move, and the shelf as a whole boasts products any home chef would be tempted to purchase together.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Unique Gifts 🌙 Delicious Food (@crowsnestbeachmarket) on Feb 15, 2019 at 9:51am PST

Minimalist Design

This simple yet sleek display by Absolut Vodka is a great example of minimalism. While the display is certainly eye-catching, its limited color scheme and symmetrical design don’t overwhelm the customer.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by PortaDecor (@portadecor) on Feb 15, 2019 at 9:09am PST

Essential Information

Here we see a POP display that gets the point across about the product without giving the shopper information overload. Soya focused on a couple of their products' benefits that they know customers appreciate and simplified their messaging to get that point across.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Retail Display POP Watch (@retaildisplaypopwatch) on Feb 21, 2019 at 11:34pm PST

The tried and true merchandising technique of the “Rule of Three.” Grouping these three products together is aesthetically pleasing and provides the potential for making multiple sales on products a shopper would consider buying together.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Replenish Refill (@replenishrefill) on Feb 14, 2019 at 3:53am PST

High-Tech Merchandising

For brands with a high enough budget, interactive tech displays can provide a major sales lift. This 7” Shelf Edge Video Blade is a great example and definitely draws the shoppers’ attention to this section of the shelf.

With all of the information provided above, it might be a little difficult to extract the key points that will benefit your business. To help you organize your thoughts, here are some key takeaways from this visual merchandising guide:

•  Your visual merchandising strategy has a significant influence on consumer decisions.
• Visual merchandisers have a responsibility to ensure retailer compliance and successful retail execution.
• There are many different visual merchandising display techniques to choose from, so the decision of which ones your brand will use needs to be informed by market research.
• Simply setting up a display and expecting it to be a success isn’t sufficient; Visual merchandisers need to continuously monitor and maintain their displays in-store.
• Collecting and analyzing visual merchandising data allows your team to discover insights that will refine your visual merchandising strategy. 

Now it's time to learn how to incorporate this knowledge into a higher level retail execution strategy. This retail execution webinar provides a detailed explanation of retail execution best practices , the three types of retail execution data , and how all of this fits into a cycle of continuous improvement when strategizing with your team.

Download the 2024 Outlook Report

As the retail landscape continues to evolve, it’s more important than ever to stay on top of the latest trends and challenges. Download our report today to see how more than 160+ CG executives and field leaders are strategizing for 2024.

Melissa is a recent graduate of Northeastern University and a content marketing specialist at Repsly, Inc. She is committed to applying her skills in order to bring value to Repsly readers and customers. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys practicing yoga, making music, and anything dog-related.

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Visual Merchandising: Objectives, Tools and Techniques

Last Updated on 05/10/2022

VISUAL MERCHANDISING

Moin.S Khan 1 & Adhijeet.A.dhoke 2 DKTE’s Textile and Engineering Institute, Ichalkaranji, Maharashtra, India Email: [email protected] 1

What is Visual Merchandising? Visual merchandising is everything the customer sees, both exterior and interior, that creates a positive image of business and results in attention, interest, desire and action on the part of the customer. Visual merchandising is a perception of sellers guiding them to arrange his merchandise look more attractive for a customer. The job on visual merchandising is made the store attractive for customers. Eighty percent of our impressions are created by sight that is why one picture is worth thousand words. Each customer has a mental image of its store and merchandise. A store should have an inviting appearance that makes the customer feel comfortable and eager to buy.

Objective of visual merchandise is a desire to attract customers to a place of business in order to sell the merchandise. It is offered to the customer through exterior and interior presentations. The evolution from the customer perspective should start from exterior and work completely through the interior of the store. To sum up visual merchandising helps in maintaining the overall image of a retail store in “consumers” mind. Apart from retail identity building visual merchandising is regarded as a powerful tool in shaping consumers final decision to buy in store. Visual merchandising focuses on various aspects of consumer which include sensory pleasure, effective pleasure and cognitive pleasure.

Essential of Visual Merchandising

• Interior Floor Design and Display.
• Space Design and Signage.
• Fixtures and Hardware.
• Window Display.
• Advertising Materials

Tools Use for Visual Merchandising

• Audio-Visual Displays.
• Decoration and Props.
• Signage and Graphics

The presentation in visual merchandising falls into two categories mainly:

• Exterior Presentations
• Interior Presentations

A. Exterior Presentations The quality of a store front is a major determinant for a customer, particularly a new customer, and should not be underestimated. The exterior appearance of one store, a block businesses or a cluster, silently announce what customers can expect inside. Good exterior visual merchandising attracts attention, creates interest and invites the customer into business. Exterior presentation can offer lavish, conservative, progressive or discount image.

Exterior Signs A sign is a silent salesperson, and part of a shopper first impression of a store. In less than 10sec the sign must attract attention, tell what the business is and what it intends to sell. Simple, brief, well designed, well lettered and easy to read signs will convey a feeling of welcome. Design graphics appropriate for the nature of the business, and create a message that is clear and simple. Focus on one or two key words to describe the business. A clean, clear message will have more impact. A store sign is its “signature”. It is personal, original and continuously recognizable to the public. It should create an image that is consistently carried throughout the existence of store.

Banners A new and interesting appearance can be offered by changing the banners frequently. Consumers will think exciting changes are taking place in store an will be drawn in the stores. Banners are used increasingly as an inexpensive but colorful, eye catching means of promotion. Banners can be hung up from flagpoles, projected from the building or flat against the exterior. To provide continuity the same banner design, reduced in size and scale, can be hung from the marquee and displayed inside the store. However do not over use banners. Then they might be overlooked by the consumers. You can use this banner maker .

Window Display Special emphasis should be placed on a stores window displays because they are the information link to the potential customer. Window displays can be as important, if not more important than advertising. As many as four sales could be the result of a good window display. Window display should attract attention, create interest and invite people into the store to purchase goods. There is less than 11 seconds to accomplish this, as that is an average amount of the time an individual will spend looking at a window display. Be careful not to crowd too much merchandise into a window, as customers will find it difficult to understand the message and what items are being promoted. It is important to change the displays frequently in small towns where customers pass by several times a week. New displays indicate new up-to-date merchandise is available.

Landscaping Landscaping should lead the customer’s eye to the focal point using color and texture to provide contrast and harmony. The focal point is the business sign and/or the building itself. Landscaping can also screen undesirable sights such as garbage receptacles, power transformers and refrigeration equipment. The essence of good landscaping is simplicity, simple landscape designs that are easy to maintain. For e.g. Uninterrupted expanses of grass are easier to maintain than areas cut up by several small beds of flowers or shrubs. Plants especially flowering bedding plants enhances the overall look of the store.

B. Interior Presentations Selling space is the most important part of a store and therefore efforts to utilize each square foot will help to maximize sales. One proven way to do this is through interior displays that effectively show merchandise to the customer. When planning interior displays, remember that the theme and image presented on the exterior must be carried throughout the interior of the store to provide consistency for the customer. The purpose of the interior display is to develop desire for the merchandise, show what is available, and encourage both impulse and planned buying.

Three goals of store are-

• Motivate the customer to spend money
• Protect the image of the store
• Keep expenses to minimum

As an illustration, researchers found that 64.8% of all the purchase decision were made inside a supermarket. Most people indicated they purchased the item because they saw it displayed. 67% of liquor purchased from the liquor shop is impulse items. Combining advertising and display into an integrated promotional campaign will usually be more effective.

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Color and Lighting Color contributes significantly to people’s impression of a display as well as stores overall appearance. Color in a display can catch eye and make people pause and look. The color combination of ceiling, walls, floor covering and the overall décor can affect the atmosphere of a store. Changing the color scheme can change people’s attitudes and perceptions of a store and can increase or decrease the business. Color can change the shape and interest to dull room, and can direct attention toward a specific object or away from problem areas. Warm colors (red, yellow, orange etc.) are stimulating and cheery. They make room feel warm and intimate. They make room look smaller and object inside larger.

Emotional response to color:

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Lighting Lighting is essential in calling attention to merchandise in a display. A shopper’s eye is drawn automatically to the brightest item or area. Lighting treatment may be used to draw attention to the part of display area or to coordinate the parts of total display area. Lighting can also be used to direct the path of the customers and to make them see various displays along the way.

There are three types of lighting used:

• Primary lighting
• Store illumination
• Atmosphere lighting

Primary Lighting Primary lighting is the overall level of illumination of the store using fluorescent or incandescent light sources. Outside, it includes 150 watt bulbs used as basic window lighting, marquee lights illuminating the sidewalks and lighting for generals lobby area. Inside the store primary lighting is that which fills the selling floor from overhead lighting fixtures and provides the bare essentials of store illumination.

Accent or Secondary Lighting This type of lighting provides illumination for designated display areas. Flat, shadow less, overall lighting can create a tiresome selling floor. Accent lighting provides change from light to dark highlight to shadows to prevent the boredom. This can be accomplished from down lighting from ceiling, showcase lighting and valence lighting (drapery or canopy). Incandescent bulbs are most often used for secondary lighting. They range I size from tiny Christmas trees light to small candle like or complexion bulbs, to full size globe or reflector type bulbs.

Atmosphere Lighting Atmosphere lighting is used to play light against shadow to create a distinctive effect on specific displays. Generally this category includes the use of color filters, pinpoint spotlights and black lighting to create dramatic effects. Fluorescent lights are used for primary lighting, as they cannot be focused directly on an object. Incandescent lamps have sharply defined beams that are easily directed to highlight the merchandise on display. Spotlights are great for merchandise displays. The angle at which spotlight is directed is very important. Any angle sharper than 45 degree is likely to momentarily blind a shopper. Color filters that change the color of the spotlight are available for spotlights. Gels are colored acetate that can be placed over light bulbs. They are similar to filters but are less expensive. They are available in roll form and can be easily cut to fit the light. High intensity discharge lamps are the most efficient bulbs available because they provide more light per watt. They help in reducing the cost and is also flattering to customer.

Props and Fixtures A prop is something used with a product in a display that clarifies the function of the merchandise being sold or the story being told. Props are integral part of a display. They are used in virtual merchandising to tell a story about the product A display prop may be something that is not for sale, such as floor coverings, wall treatments, backgrounds, mannequins, shelves and steps. When using saleable merchandise as prop, be sure it is appropriate for the theme of the display and is sufficient quantity to meet an increase in demand arising from the display.

Props can be items carried in from the woods or prairie, or rustic antiques found in someone’s attic. Examples include a branch from lilac bush for spring summer collection, shocks of wheat, dried leaves, large boulders used to give an idea of strength and power of a tractor, and gray rocks to provide contrast to jewelry. These objects props are generally not beautiful by themselves, but highlight the merchandise for sale. The merchandise in a display must be the dominant element. The prop is there to complement or highlight the salable merchandise and add visual excitement to the surrounding area. A prop is not there to distract customer from their original purpose of shopping for and purchasing goods.

Merchandise and Fixture Display Recommendations Goods can be effectively displayed on a variety of fixtures such as gondolas, tables, cubes, and mannequins , waterfalls and other racks, display cases. A fixture should not only complement the merchandise but also create an atmosphere in the store. It should act as silent sales person. One of the most common fixtures in store are gondolas; movable shelving approachable from all sides used in self-service retail stores to display merchandise. They can be lined up in stores as grocery or hardware stores.

Errors Commonly Occurring in Display

• Too much merchandise
• Too little merchandise
• Lack of underlying theme
• Too many props
• Poorly selected props
• Display changed to seldom
• Limited or no display budget
• Lack of attention to detail

Conclusion So by the combination of mannequin, lighting and props in a window display and a store highlight can further intensify the decision process where the former affects the affective pleasure of consumers and help them determine the suitability of a store’s retail identity to personal preference, the latter intensifies the sensational feeling of consumers and encourage the tendency to try on or purchase which directly relates to the pre-purchase stage. Thus it can be concluded that visual merchandising play one of the important role in customers’ decision making process.

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Founder & Editor of Textile Learner. He is a Textile Consultant, Blogger & Entrepreneur. He is working as a textile consultant in several local and international companies. He is also a contributor of Wikipedia.

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What Is Visual Merchandising? Useful Tips For Retailers

As a common rule, people get their initial impressions based on what they come across and see. Because of this, visual merchandising practices can significantly improve the appeal, ambiance, and customer experience inside a brick-and-mortar store. 

Visual merchandising is essential for retail marketing as it is a well-defined approach that tries to affect customers’ decisions when they visit a shop. So what is visual merchandising ?

In this article, we’ll discuss its definition and various styles. We’ll also go over some helpful techniques for improving the displays of stores and products. 

Definition, Goals, And Examples of Visual Merchandising  

What does visual merchandising mean.

Visual merchandising is the art of designing retail space layouts.  It also includes how products are exhibited to make them more appealing to buyers. Product displays must visually emphasize merchandise aesthetics, features, advantages, and purposes.

The point here is that visual merchandising is about more than just making items seem nice. It’s important to showcase them in a way that generates measurable income growth. Then, what does a visual merchandiser do ?

As a visual merchandiser , you will arrange, display, and present products in stores and places where buyers can see, pick up and purchase products. 

A visual merchandiser’s job is to optimize retail space 

Visual merchandising first appeared at physical retail locations. Yet businesses are now adopting similar strategies to the online marketplace, called online visual merchandising.

This product marketing strategy qualifies as science and art since it consists of visual components such as lines, settings, dimensions, and layout to produce attractive and harmonious presentations. It also combines factors to serve psychological ideas to affect customers’ emotions and shopping decisions.

Visual merchandising’s primary purpose is to attract customers and increase revenue. A successful store’s visual merchandise plan must entice customers inside and keep them there long enough for them to purchase.

Through demonstration and promotion, visual merchandising influences the customer experience in a retail setting. As a result, it is an efficient role used by retail marketers to influence consumer behavior and achieve their marketing objectives - revenue and return visitors.

According to research, most shoppers make their shopping decisions inside a store. Thanks to this, it makes visual merchandising is an effective marketing tactic to persuade impressionable and impulsive consumers . 

So, how do retail stores achieve this? They must use specific shapes, colors, lighting, graphics, and other design aspects in product displays. These factors generate pleasant or positive emotional experiences that inspire a buyer to spend more. 

Each retail outlet has its own visual merchandising to capture potential buyers’ attention to specific parts of the store by strategically placing merchandise and aesthetic features. Some brands in retail industry , like IKEA and Zara, are two of the most typical examples of visually appealing stores. 

It’s nearly impossible to leave one of their IKEA stores without spending significant time. Each store features a variety of exciting and creative showrooms, making it difficult to leave when you feel like you’re visiting a modern home. 

The fact that IKEA makes individuals think of their ideal home, though, slowly passes the time there. It’s because each store is furnished with reasonably priced IKEA furnishings. It also persuades many homeowners to purchase IKEA furniture since it makes the idea of designing your home to look like a showroom a realistic prospect.

An attractive visual display from IKEA

Zara is a great illustration of a business that tells a good story through its product displays. The items on display in the store space tell stories about specific subjects or people. In addition, the company recruits a team of experts, including architects and visualmerchandisers, to ensure that Zara stores have the appropriate narrative, ambiance, layout, and nearly comparable scenes worldwide.

Zara also employs lighting effects and contrasting colors. It aims at directing attention to particular areas of the store.

Types Of Visual Merchandising

Several approaches are utilized in visual merchandising depending on the specific products and stores available. Some visual merchandising techniques are more useful than others. Some are simple displays you can make yourself within several days, while others require a bigger investment and more resources to complete.

• Interior displays: displays inside a shop that could include merchandise and decorations.
• Exterior displays: fixtures such as neon signs, posters, and canopies. Additionally, outdoor signage communicates your company’s branding and gives customers an initial impression of your store.
• Store layout: visual merchandising covers how a store is planned and organized. It includes how specific products are put and the distribution of products from the front to the rear of the store. Store layout also determines the positions of points of sale, staff rooms, and other rooms, if any.
• Mannequins: style, layout, and arrangement of mannequins can convey messages to your customers.
• Window displays : shopfronts are an interesting factor in visual marketing since they can attract the attention of passers-by, resulting in more customers.

A clothing store design of window display

• Seasonal displays: This merchandise display can highlight new items, boost add-on purchases, and generate attention.
• Product information: The location and manner in which you communicate product information, including the size of signs and labels, the typeface used, and the tone of the material, can affect how customers perceive your business.
• Design decisions: flooring, textiles, and other materials, for example, can provide a physical image of your brand’s identity.

Why Is Visual Merchandising Important?

Visual merchandising is an effective approach to breaking through the clutter. Consumers are exposed to visual and text-based advertising in physical stores and online retailers. Thus, a well-designed and well-planned retail space is critical to achieving a company’s sales and marketing objectives. Here are some benefits that retailers often get from visual merchandising:

Better Consumer Experience 

A good customer experience is essential for running a successful business, and visual merchandising is a big part of it. It helps to organize the retail area and makes it easier for customers to find what they’re looking for, thereby increasing their shopping experience in your store. Furthermore, professionally designed displays assist in engaging, attracting, and educating consumers.

Meet Sales Goals

Visual merchandising is the sales assistant who subconsciously persuades customers to acquire desired things. Marketers accomplish this by strategically positioning profitable items, making them visible, and enticing people to acquire them. On average, shoppers who visit several out of every ten stores tend to make multiple impulsive purchases. 

They will enter your store and check for sensory information. Higher sales will result if you can capture their interest and guide them around your store.

Stronger Social Influence

Great visual merchandising encourages customers to share images of your store on social media. Customers can share photographs or post stories of your products on their feeds. This visual merchandising strategy  exposes your brand to a larger, more likely-to-purchase audience.

What Are The Most Important Elements Of Visual Merchandising?

1. color is king.

Color is an essential component of visual design. It draws attention, conveys meaning, unifies the surroundings, and influences purchasing behavior.

Different colors represent various themes and moods. Use contrasting colors such as black and white, or try monochromatic tones, which are all shades of the same color. This factor also greatly contributes to retail marketing since it increases sales if marketers choose a color that fits the preferences of their target audience.

Stunning color tones attract young and active customers

2. Maximum Display Visibility: What May Be Seen Sells

Retailers today must compete for customers’ attention to sell what they are displaying. Keep in mind that shoppers are often distracted by retail outlet fixtures.  It would be best to pique their curiosity by improving your in-store merchandise visibility approach to emphasizing inspiration per square foot rather than the old retail sales metric per square foot. As the curator of your customer’s shopping experience, you must seek ideas to enhance your displays more visibly and interestingly by considering the experience you want to deliver.

3. Storytelling

Buyers make split-second decisions about whether to look attentively at something or keep on walking. That is why it is vital to begin a story with a hook. Once they’ve expressed an interest, show them what they’ll get if they buy something.

Retailers can design store space to tell a story about the brand’s culture, goods, concept, or any other idea that corresponds to its commercial goals. The narrative is expressed through all the visual elements of the store, including interiors, product offerings, and retail tactics.

Consider how you might appeal to your clients’ senses other than sight. Ask yourself: Is it possible to create a multidimensional experience by combining sound, touch, taste, and smell?

Retail space with a Christmas concept 

4. Point of Concentration/ Focal Point

A focal point is essential in constructing an appealing retail display. A focal point is a location on the display where people’s eyes will immediately focus when they first glance at it. It is significantly more crucial to employ common sense to assist you in finding an excellent focal point.

This rule also refers to the pyramid principle, which states that if one thing is at the top and all other items are “one step below,”. That way, it forces eyes to stare at the main focus and then work its way down.

By positioning the most alluring items there, such as a special deal or a themed display, you may entice them to the main point. Place flat, 360-degree focal areas that are well-lit, visible from all directions, and easily shoppable.

5. Landscaping

Using landscapes to show merchandise displays is one of the most effective strategies to catch customers’ attention. Landscaping is the process of uplifting items to make them more accessible. 

Remember to carefully consider the shape and size of the displayed goods when landscaping. Because of the lighting, these details influence which portion of the visual goods is accentuated.

6. Lighting

Lighting is a factor that can create a certain atmosphere and kick-start a mood in your store.

It helps attract customers to the specific products or sections you want them to look.

Adding spotlights to emphasize branded items is another effective approach to direct attention and ensure that your best products are seen.

The best way to define balance is a sense of symmetry in the focus, weight, or emotional attachment of the many parts within the composition to achieve wholeness. A design’s stability and structure are provided through balance. It is the amount of stuff allocated in the design due to the positioning of your pieces.

Visual balance can be classified into two types. Asymmetrical balance, also known as informal balance, and symmetrical balance, sometimes known as proper balance. 

Balance is established by visual information on the part of the observer rather than physical weighing. To balance a composition, distribute its pieces so that the viewer is persuaded that the work is not about to collapse.

If you want to highlight a new product line, home goods, fashion products, or a particular promotion, think about using themes across your space. Themes might be as simple as matching colors or as complex as a fictional plot or customer testimonial. The use of themes might assist in distinguishing various products or characteristics that you wish to showcase.

Clothes that are arranged in theme

Tips to Improve Product Displays for Your Retail Business

Merchants must stay informed about fads and popular styles. Changing the displays regularly will keep customers engaged in the brand. Shoppers looking for anything new will choose to visit the store if brand new things are expected to be presented. While altering displays is important, keeping some features of the business in good correlation, such as the layout, is also beneficial. Maintaining some continuity promotes familiarity for returning clients.

Your exact visual merchandising strategies are critical but don’t lose track of your overarching merchandising approach. Here are some ways to use visual merchandising efficiently:

Internal Design

The way in which you set up and arrange your shop space is what we call internal retail design. There are endless ways to design the interior of your retail store to greet your customers, direct them throughout the store, stimulate them to interact with your products, and eventually persuade them to purchase. Use color smartly to create first impressions and close connections with your shoppers. 

Also, it would help if you kept updating product displays. Make a clear path for your consumers to travel around your store using chairs, tables, displays, shelves, and other items. The exact route will vary substantially based on the size and structure of your store.

Exterior Design

Exterior decorations attract people’s attention and excitement and are often the most eye-catching visual exhibit in your storefront.

Signage is also necessary for the exterior of your store. Outside signage is a great way to announce specials, tell folks about your company, or even share an artwork, set the stage before anyone enters.

A planogram is a graphic representation of the store. It displays the aisles and product positions the store wishes to arrange and show to maximize sales. Planograms assist retailers in planning space usage and collecting data to make better decisions. Simultaneously, it provides administrators with a comprehensive view of the storage space.

Adjust the planogram to reflect the bestseller product’s location. You should also update consumer and market needs on a regular basis to adapt the planogram. 

Seasonal Display

Seasonal factors should be considered while planning your visual merchandising. Making sure your store merchandising corresponds with what customers are experiencing, whether it’s a celebration or a holiday season of the year, will help your business feel more relevant to your target demographic.

You do not want to put out seasonal displays too early, even though you want to extend their use as much as possible. Learn when the town and other businesses set up their holiday decor, so you don’t put yours up too early.

Placing multiple displays or modest decorative items throughout your store will make your seasonal displays less formulaic and festive.

Summer clothing items

Signage is a tried-and-true method of presenting much information in a digestible, eye-catching style. It can be as basic as a poster displaying a fantastic deal or as complicated as a provided in the form that both entertains and inspires. Signage, like window displays and mannequins, is a simple tool that may be used for any messaging.

Signage that is effective can emphasize products or features, direct customers to specific things, and share information with your customers. It has a tremendous impact on what your consumers view and interact with, as well as how they perceive your business and merchandise.

McDonalds' outdoor signage

Mannequins are the most traditional type of visual merchandising. They are common and useful because they closely resemble the human body and can be highly stylized. Mannequins can be chosen by retailers based on their client base, such as gender, size, form, and so on.

Mannequins, which model clothing for retail garment stores, are frequently seen in window displays. Mannequins are also employed throughout the store to demonstrate to customers how the garments fit, giving them a better picture of how the clothes will look. Mannequins can be used to display a whole outfit or individual clothing items such as pants, dresses, hats, and other accessories.

Fashion retail outlets often use mannequins to promote products

Use bright or pleasant colors that have been associated with your store to immediately draw the visitor in.Remember to use an adequate combination of accessories—don’t overuse them, but don’t allow too much void space on your mannequin’s head. Display mannequin heads as the focal point of displays—either put mannequin heads on platforms or at eye level within the store, so they do not hinder the display.

What is visual merchandising ? You may now know and have all the useful information to best adopt this strategy in your retail business. Have good luck!

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Visual Merchandising: 12 Insights How To Merchandise Your Store

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Retail merchandising is such an important topic! Most of the time, smart retailers call it visual merchandising and are always looking for best practices to arrange their products.

What is visual merchandising? 

Visual merchandising is presenting, arranging, and displaying products in a way that makes them grab the shopper's eye and encourages them to pick up, try on, and ultimately buy the merchandise.

When learning how to merchandise your store display to draw shopper interest and sell more merchandise it is important to consider what story you want to present.

It's easy to pile an endcap with merchandise and slap on a bright red SALE sign, but how do you move full-priced merchandise?

Many articles about how to merchandise your store leave out the important part. It isn't enough to create a "pretty display"—it has to convert lookers to buyers, or it is a waste of time.

And don't think just dragging out a bunch of sale racks onto the curb or piling your leftovers no one wanted in the first place into the front of your store will draw people in, either.

Why? Because then the front of your store will resemble a yard sale more than a going retail space.

But that requires knowing the dos and don'ts of inventory management. Does that seem intimidating? It doesn't have to be. 

You need to know how to organize merchandise effectively.

Keep it simple with these tips and best practices.

12 insights on how to use visual merchandising in your store

1. change displays monthly.

Holidays and seasons only last so long, and promotional items have a short shelf life. Feature new arrivals in your store layout first.

If you ordered products meant to go together, keep them together. You don’t want their first appearance to be diluted or the potential add-on sale to be lost. Later, group any leftover items with new arrivals to change their look.

2. Visually merchandise the products people want, not need.

Don’t choose to highlight products the customer already needs ; that is what they are coming in for. Customers respond to product displays of items they want .

For example, don’t display the cheap hand mixer when every Emeril wannabe desires the fancy KitchenAid.   Just because they need a mixer doesn’t mean they won’t treat themselves to the expensive model if it is displayed well.

3. Look for one thing that makes a grouping other than price.

While all of one product works well in a grocery store, it is little more than warehousing the items in a retail store. Your visual merchandising strategy should include making displays according to product use – an assortment of items related to brewing and drinking tea, for example. Or display by colors – the strongest color combinations to attract attention in retail are red, white, and black.

Try related or contrasting colors. Our eyes quickly get the point and move on, so never make a monochromatic display.

4. Focus on the front of your store

Start with the display area closest to the front door and highlight your newest and most expensive items. Be sure to have several levels of height—even on shelves. Make sure your store fixtures are clean from top to bottom and filled with enough products so that customers can pick up and touch them without having to totally dismantle your display.

5. Add a stuffed pig to at least one window. Really.

Find an unrelated item and put it on your display. It serves as a prop, and its only purpose is to grab your customer’s attention. Add a stuffed toy pig to complete your KitchenAid display. Adding a prop to every product display is unnecessary, but the idea should always be there.

These visual elements make  the customer ask themselves, "Why is that there?" They are intrigued by your visual merchandising picture and come in to learn more.

6. Add additional lighting so the merchandise stands out

Light your display like it’s important. Adjust overhead lighting. If you have a particularly dark display with no way to highlight it from above, consider moving your best-selling products to an existing light source or light from below with small spotlights. Remember, light makes the merchandise pop.

7. Add compelling signage

Add a few well-placed, well-worded signs - even on store fixtures. Ensure the signs are short and easy to read to catch customers' attention. If your customers are mostly seniors, use larger fonts to make it easy on them. Handwritten signs with markers are okay for a kid’s lemonade stand, but they tend to look amateurish anywhere else.

Don’t ever put up signage that says DO NOT TOUCH. You might as well put up a sign that says DO NOT BUY. Displays are supposed to get messed up.

8. Rotate your displays but not your fixtures

Move existing displays around the sales floor when new merchandise comes in. Since the fairly new inventory will still sell, switch your store layout two weeks after arrival. Move one from the front to the middle of the sales floor and the other from the middle to the back.

9. Track your sales by SKU

Monitor your computer printouts and inventory levels weekly. If something takes off, be prepared to reorder these best-selling products immediately. If you have sold through your inventory and have no back stock, change your visual merchandising plan to something you have plenty of.

If something doesn’t sell, try moving the same display to another location or incorporating different product placement before giving up on it.

10. Make sure every product in each arrangement is priced

Make sure all of your product is priced. No one wants to have to ask how much something is.

11. Engage more than one sense in your store

You may have seen those stores selling health aides in malls with several oil diffusers working, pictured at right. You're probably already wondering what they smell like. That's the power of engaging more than one sense. 

I've seen retailers use ScentAir for beachy Tommy Bahama clothes departments to engage the nose, high-end grocery stores to offer fine food tastings to engage the mouth, and sound retailers to have separate rooms to engage the ears. Just make sure to go easy on scent. Many people have allergies or other preferences. 

12. Add motion to your display

It is easy to only think about what the display looks like in terms of colors and textures. Still, you can go further and add movement with a fan carefully placed out of sight to slightly billow out a summer dress, add a toy train during the holidays, or demonstrate your product in use. Usually, the motion also provides a sound, which is a bonus.

Or, check out a company that works with in-store media for retailers.

See also: How to craft a retail merchandising plan with this comprehensive primer

The most important element of visual merchandising

What's the most important aspect of visual merchandising? Your creativity. You must learn the science and the art of arranging beyond just SKUs and discounts.

These retail merchandising tips do not include all possible ways to organize merchandise into your silent salesperson. Still, they form a foundation any retailer or small business can use to boost  sales . Be careful that your floor plan remains open and that aisles are easy to walk down. Customer service extends to the ease with which they can navigate around your stellar displays.

Innovative Merchandising Strategies for Physical Stores

Visual Merchandising: How To Create Retail Counter Displays That Work

Retail Store Merchandising Ideas to See in New York [Pics]

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What Is Visual Merchandising?

From the moment consumers step foot in a store, they start making purchasing decisions based on what they see. The display colors , lighting and messaging play a significant role in which products catch their eye. Using these elements to bring attention to your brand is called visual merchandising. It’s a crucial strategy to make your products stand out in a competitive retail space.

Effective visual merchandising can have a significant impact on your bottom line. This guide will explain visual merchandising and how to use it to promote your products.

Table of Contents:

Visual Merchandising Explained

Who uses visual merchandising.

• Why is Visual Merchandising Important?
• Examples of Visual Merchandising
• Visual Merchandising and Store Displays

Benefits of Visual Merchandising

• How to Improve Your Visual Merchandising

Visual merchandising is a marketing practice that retailers and consumer products companies use to capture people’s attention so they’re more likely to purchase something. This practice took off in the  19th century  after department store window displays became popular. The initial focus was to attract customers into the store. Since then, the market has become saturated with competition. Now, visual merchandising is an essential strategy that brands use to sell more products inside the store.

Your visual merchandising strategy includes everything customers see as they pass by your merchandise. These elements reflect your mission and tell customers why they should choose your products. Here are some key components to consider:

• Color:  Different colors communicate different tones and  influence emotions . The colors you choose impact how customers respond to your merchandise.
• Lighting:  Including lights in your visual displays can help attract more customers to your products.
• Messaging:  The words and phrases you include on your packaging or retail displays significantly impact consumer purchasing decisions.
• Sounds: Modern technology has made incorporating sounds into your retail displays easy. You can play informational messages or songs that express your brand’s personality.
• Scents:  Familiar scents can  bring back good memories  and the positive emotions that go with them. Including a fragrance in your visual merchandising may help consumers associate those same good feelings with your brand.
• Technology:  Digital elements are sure to stand out from the competition. You could incorporate an interactive touch screen or promotional video into your retail display.

Visual Merchandising Key Components

Consumer products companies use visual merchandising to promote their goods in a retail space. This approach works for all types of merchandise in any retail category. Brands can use it to sell anything from groceries and beverages to clothing and toys. Many retailers also practice visual merchandising in their stores. They use their knowledge of the space and customers’ shopping patterns to design a layout that boosts sales.

Why Is Visual Merchandising Important?

The ultimate goal of visual merchandising is to sell more products. This method is vital to retailers and consumer goods companies because it can help them make more money. However, wise business leaders prioritize this practice for several other reasons:

1. First Impressions

You have  7 seconds  to make a great first impression. In those few short moments, consumers decide whether they’re interested in your products. Investing in creative and original visual merchandising helps you put your best foot forward.

More importantly, visual merchandising catches people’s attention. You can’t make an impression if no one notices your products in the first place. Creating impressive visual displays attracts customers to your brand and promotes a positive first impression.

2. In-Store Shopping Experience

In recent years, online shopping has become increasingly popular amongst consumers. However, e-commerce only accounts for  18% of global retail sales . Consumers still do most of their shopping in physical stores because they enjoy the tactile experience, amongst other benefits. Surveys show that  62% of consumers  prefer in-store shopping because they can see and feel the items.

Visual merchandising helps fulfill this need, with eye-catching displays that make it easier for customers to find products that match their interests. Displays make the in-store shopping experience more exciting and enjoyable so customers keep coming back for more. Visual displays also encourage shoppers to test your products and learn more about your brand.

3. Purchasing Decisions

Have you ever gone to the store for one thing and left with an entire cart full of items? Shoppers leave retail stores with more than they intended to buy  75% of the time . Sellers use retail merchandising to influence purchase decisions while shoppers are in the store. They target potential customers during the pivotal moments before they make a purchase.

4. Target Market

There’s no advertisement or branding that will appeal to everyone. Instead, brands focus their attention on consumers with the greatest purchase potential. Brands use visual merchandising to reach customers who are most likely to buy their products. They customize their packaging and displays to appeal to a specific demographic.

Types of Visual Merchandising

Visual merchandising is everywhere. Customers are exposed to it from the moment they open the retailer’s door until it closes behind them. Here are some prime examples of visual merchandising:

1. Store Design

A store’s interior design and layout significantly impact the types of customers it attracts and how these people make purchasing decisions. Every detail matters, from the color of the walls to the organization of the merchandise. Furniture stores are designed much differently than grocery stores for good reason.

When choosing a retailer to carry your products, it’s important to consider the types of customers they attract. You want their visual merchandising strategies to align with yours.

2. Window Displays

Window displays are prime real estate for visual merchandising. They’re often the first thing shoppers see. They allow you to start marketing your products before the consumer even enters the store, which is why window displays must be creative and unique.

3. Cross Merchandising

Displaying complementary items together encourages customers to buy more products. For example, think of how retailers often showcase salsa and tortilla chips on the same display. Shoppers are more likely to purchase both items instead of one.

4. Signs and Banners

Signs and banners help shoppers navigate through the store. You can use them to guide customers to your products or highlight special features.

5. Mannequins

Mannequins are ideal for displaying clothing and accessories. They come in different styles, sizes and skin tones to connect with specific audiences. For example, a plus-size clothing manufacturer could display their clothes on a larger-sized mannequin. The type of mannequin and its positioning and styling can tell consumers a lot about your brand.

6. Product Packaging

Packaging is crucial to the success of your visual merchandising. It provides valuable information about your product to influence purchasing decisions. It’s vital that your  packaging  reflects your brand’s personality and blends with the rest of your marketing materials. You want to send a clear and consistent message to consumers.

7. Point-of-Purchase Displays

Point-of-purchase (POP) displays  are fixtures placed throughout the store to showcase a particular product or brand. They’re stationed in high-traffic areas, so customers are more likely to notice that product and add it to their cart. POP displays are typically custom-made in various shapes and styles to promote a specific item.

8. Point-of-Sale Displays

Point-of-sale (POS) displays  are often confused with POP displays, but they’re slightly different. A POS display is a promotional fixture placed near the checkout area. This visual merchandising tactic targets consumers while they wait for their turn to pay. POS displays often promote low-cost items that won’t significantly impact the shopper’s total. People are more likely to add these goods to their cart since they’re already making a purchase.

9. Seasonal Displays

Limited-edition products come out every season. Seasonal displays introduce these items and motivate customers to purchase them. They help manufacturers sell more products in a short amount of time.

Retail Store Visual Merchandising

A major component of visual merchandising is in-store displays. Retail displays showcase your products away from the shelves, so customers are more likely to notice them and consider purchasing. For developing brands, store displays are crucial to attracting new customers. Established brands use them to highlight new releases or boost sales for a particular product.

See Our Display Solutions

The terms POP, POS and seasonal describe different categories of displays. These groups can be broken down even further to explain the individual fixtures that businesses often use. Understanding the different types of displays will help you create a compelling visual merchandising strategy. Here are the most common types that make a significant impact:

1. Floor Displays

The term floor display describes any freestanding unit that promotes a specific product or brand. They’re typically placed in the center of major aisles to attract the maximum amount of attention. They separate your merchandise from shelves loaded with other products, giving you a competitive advantage. You can customize your floor displays with eye-catching graphics that emphasize your visual merchandising and encourage sales.

2. Display Bins

Display bins are large box-like or hexagonal containers you can fill with large quantities of product. The outside of the container provides plenty of space to print striking graphics and persuasive messaging. These containers make it easy for shoppers to quickly grab your products and put them in their cart. Businesses use them to sell candy, movies, bottled soda, snack bags, bouncy balls and many other products.

3. Endcap Displays

An endcap is prime real estate at the end of an aisle where most customers walk to navigate the store. Creating a  custom endcap display  increases the visibility of your products, which could potentially boost sales. Endcap displays are an excellent way to introduce new or seasonal products that people might overlook on crowded shelves.

4. Sidekick Displays

Sidekick displays or power wings are often paired with endcap displays to implement cross-merchandising. They hang on the side of endcap fixtures to promote add-on items. For instance, you could pair sponges with dish soap or popcorn with DVDs. Sidekick displays place complementary items in one convenient location so customers are more likely to choose your products. It’s much easier to capture people’s attention from a sidekick display than an aisle flooded with competition.

5. Counter Displays

Counter displays  are fixtures placed at the point of sale to encourage last-minute purchases. They’re ideal for smaller items that can fit within a limited space. They optimize the time customers spend waiting to check out at the register. Grocery stores and gas stations typically use them for gum, candy, magazines and other impulse items. However, more retailers have started using them to sell jewelry, makeup, perfume, hair accessories and other add-on items.

6. Inline Displays

Inline displays  are custom installations brands use to promote their products on retail shelves. They draw attention to your merchandise and highlight its key features.

Inline displays are smaller than other fixtures, but they can make a powerful impact. They target customers who have already made it to your shelf, which means they are probably interested in the type of products you sell. They persuade consumers to choose your merchandise over the competitions’.

Any company that sells products in-store participates in visual merchandising. Whether they make an effort or not, customers will see their products and pass judgment on their brand. It’s crucial to take advantage of this opportunity by creating deliberate visual merchandising strategies. Consider these benefits to implementing a visual merchandising campaign:

1. Increase Sales

The main benefit of visual merchandising is increased sales. By making your products stand out, more shoppers will stop and consider buying them. Doing so also reminds existing customers about your brand, making them more likely to make another purchase. It’s like hiring a full-time salesperson to stand in the store and promote your merchandise.

2. Attract New Customers

The first step to attracting new customers is getting them to notice your products. Mesmerizing visual merchandising captures their attention to get your name out there. When they see your brand multiple times, they are more likely to purchase.

In marketing, the  rule of seven  suggests that you must interact with the customer seven times before they make a purchase. While this number may vary based on the product, it emphasizes the importance of increasing your brand’s visibility and familiarity.

3. Promote Target Merchandise

Some consumer products companies offer a wide selection of merchandise that earns various profit levels. Visual merchandising can help promote targeted items that bring in the most revenue. It also helps showcase seasonal items so you can sell as much as possible within a limited time frame.

4. Nurture Brand Loyalty

Although it’s challenging, earning brand loyalty from your customers is extremely valuable. The key to nurturing these relationships is making every interaction exciting and unique. Visual merchandising makes shopping fun and convenient. When you create a positive experience, customers associate those feelings with your products and are more likely to repurchase them consistently.

5. Build a Positive Reputation

Visual merchandising displays provide an opportunity to communicate with customers about what your brand is all about. Creating consistent messaging about your mission and the products you offer helps spread brand awareness and build a positive reputation with your target market.

6. Spread Information

Another benefit to visual merchandising is highlighting product features and information. Cover your packaging and displays with persuasive messaging that makes your products more appealing than the competitions’. You can also answer questions that may be stopping customers from making a purchase.

How to Improve Your Visual Merchandising Strategy

Your visual merchandising should showcase your products’ features, benefits and appearance so that shoppers feel compelled to purchase them. Plan your retail displays carefully to make the most significant impact. Consider these tips to improve your visual merchandising:

1. Understand Your Target Customer

When you’re trying to design eye-catching displays, it’s important to consider whose eye you’re trying to attract. Are you targeting tech-savvy, environmentally conscious or fashion-forward shoppers? Base your product presentations on what your customers value most.

Understanding your target customer makes it easier to create designs that match their interests . It also ensures your displays have the greatest possible influence. Conduct your own research or analyze existing studies to discover your customers’ interests, needs and motivations. Use this information to plan visual merchandising that will resonate with them.

2. Create a Hook

In retail stores filled with an overwhelming amount of merchandise, customers make rapid decisions about which products are worth their attention. Creating a hook to lure in your target market will give your products the best chance of being noticed. A successful hook is creative, unique and appeals to the senses. Your hook could be something simple like neon packaging or more elaborate like a display that plays music when customers walk near it.

3. Maintain Consistency

Your branding’s tone, messaging and style communicate your mission and personality . Using consistent marketing across all channels helps spread brand awareness. It also makes it easier for customers to recognize your products.

4. Make Frequent Updates

While it’s important to maintain consistent branding, the same old displays will eventually fade into the background. Update your visual merchandising to keep customers interested in your products.  Temporary displays  allow you to swap out your visual merchandising frequently. Just make sure your updates are cohesive with the rest of your marketing.

5. Follow the Trends

Keep up with industry trends to inspire your latest visual merchandising displays. Doing so shows your audience that your brand is current and innovative.

6. Consider the Retailer’s Requirements

When designing your visual merchandising campaign, you must follow the retailer’s requirements and guidelines. Some retailers restrict your display’s size and shape. For instance, a  club store  has plenty of room for display bins and large fixtures, while a mom-and-pop retailer may only have space for an inline shelf display.

7. Create Effective Displays

Make the most of your visual merchandising with effective retail displays. Consider which sizes, shapes, colors, materials and graphics will complement your products and attract the most attention. Visual displays that appeal to your customers’ wants and needs can significantly impact your bottom line.

8. Partner With Experts

Give your visual merchandising campaign a boost with help from the experts. Professional designers will assess your products and recommend packaging and displays to spread brand awareness and increase sales.

At  Creative Displays Now , we have over 60 years of experience helping our clients create outstanding custom displays. Our talented designers will use their industry expertise and shopper insights to help you promote your products in the retail environment.

Design Your Visual Merchandising Display With Creative Displays Now

Visual merchandising is a crucial tactic that consumer products companies and retailers use to capture their target market and boost sales. Retail displays play a major role in building a successful visual merchandising strategy. Their primary purpose is to help your products stand out, attracting new and existing customers and steering them toward making a purchase. They also help brands spread awareness and establish a positive reputation with their target market.

At Creative Displays Now, our team is dedicated to helping customers create successful retail displays. We have extensive knowledge about all types of displays and how to make them work for your merchandise. We  design, print and manufacture  your custom displays in-house to ensure they’re made quickly to our quality standards.

Investing time and funds into visual merchandising improves your visibility and profitability. Start by creating custom displays to help your business grow and succeed. We’ll help you personalize the  best retail displays  and ensure they meet all the major retailer requirements. Call us or  get in touch  to start today!

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Check out examples of our visual merchandising displays!

Why Visual Merchandising is So Important to Retail Success

Last Updated on July 29, 2024 by Beth Martin

If you’ve seen a product in a shop window and been drawn in by its visual appeal, you’ve experienced the power of visual merchandising first-hand. Visual merchandising is the delicate balance of science and art of creating attractive product displays in retail stores and other commercial settings that tempt customers into making purchases.

This subtle form of marketing involves creative styling, lighting, colors, display props, and even technology to create the best possible visual presentation for retail products. Visual merchandising includes in-store displays and display windows, and it’s an essential part of retail design.

This blog post will explain exactly what visual merchandising is and how to create displays that generate the maximum effect. We will also discuss nine critical aspects of visual merchandising and how you can implement them in your own retail store.

So let’s get started!

What is Visual Merchandising?

Standing out in the retail world is tough, and the best way to do this is with visual merchandising. This is the science of optimizing product placement and displays to create the most appealing visual presentation possible.

Visual merchandisers can make products more attractive by using color theory, lighting, and other design techniques, encouraging customers to buy.

Effective visual merchandising will not only increase sales but will also cohesively represent a brand’s image. Visual elements should create a space that speaks to the customers.

Every part of the store where products are displayed counts as visual merchandising, so you want to make sure an impact is being made on your customers even before they walk through your front door.

Why Is Visual Merchandising Important?

Using the practice of visual merchandising to your advantage is essential for three main reasons:

• To let your customers understand your brand’s identity, and attract the appropriate customers for your shop. For example, luxury goods are typically displayed more subtly with soft lighting and lots of visual space between products. A store with a younger audience might use bright colors and bold visuals to draw in its target customer.
• A great in-store experience will make your customers want to return to see your space in person. This is extra important in the days of online shopping when customers need a reason to not just make purchases from the comfort of their homes.
• If you create an atmosphere in your retail store that feels more like a special event, you are more likely to engage new customers and keep them coming back.
• And most importantly, fantastic visual merchandising will create business and drive sales, which is the whole point. I’ve worked on many displays where customers purchased the products in the windows as soon as I placed the merchandise.

9 Critical Aspects of Visual Merchandising

Every aspect of a store’s design can play a part in visual merchandising. Here are the main aspects that you should take into consideration when determining the merchandising in your retail stores:

• Window Displays
• Store Layout
• Color Theory
• Seasonal Displays

1. Window Displays

Windows are one of the most invaluable aspects of visual merchandising and they aren’t only important in big cities like New York. They are usually the first thing potential customers see when they walk by a retail store, and if your windows are captivating enough, you might draw in new customers from across the street or even driving by.

Creating a great window display is about thinking outside the box and using your imagination. You only have a couple of seconds to capture the attention of a passing shopper, so don’t be afraid to be bold.

2. Store Layout

The overall store layout can make or break whether or not a purchase will be made, so you want to ensure customers can see products in a straightforward and eye catching way. Shoppers should be able to easily maneuver your displays and create zones related to your brand’s merchandise.

Retail signs are what will direct your customers through your store, and this starts from your main entry sign down to your price tags and everything in between.

Cohesive signage is a simple visual merchandising tool that can help your customers find what they need, which will increase sales. Clear signage will also make a retail space easier to navigate and look more professional.

Hang tags on clothing, price tags, sale signs, and seasonal signage are all types of signage you might consider in your store. If you want your visual merchandising to look refined, all of these should look consistent.

4. Color Theory

Creating a cohesive color scheme is necessary for visual merchandising. Colors can subconsciously influence customers’ feelings about your store and products. Choosing the right colors will help you set the tone for your customer’s experience and make a lasting impression.

5. Mannequins

If you sell fashion, jewelry, or other items worn by a person, you might want to use mannequins in your store displays. Mannequins are a great way to highlight products and create seasonal displays.

There are many types of mannequin forms, so choose the ones that will look the best in your retail store and display your products the best.

6. Cash Wrap

The cash wrap is the point of sale where your customers make their purchases, so make sure it is visually appealing. Design your cash wrap to seamlessly fit in with the rest of your store, while still standing out.

Consider using the counter and sides of the cash wrap for small items that customers might purchase at the last moment.

It’s also necessary to remember that this is where money will be exchanged and stored, so safety features, such as a locked drawer for the cash, are critical.

7. Lighting

Store lighting is critical to setting the right design tone and also functions to highlight products in a specific way. The type of products you sell will help dictate what kind of store lighting you need. For example, jewelry stores typically use accent lighting to highlight their products in the best way possible.

8. Seasonal Displays

Updating displays throughout the year will encourage your customers to drop in and see how your store has changed. This could be as simple as adding some greenery for spring or could include elaborate pop-up displays.

9. Technology

In recent years, technology has become an impactful part of visual merchandising. Using large TVs or screens as part of your store displays can help to showcase products in a new and innovative way and add new dimensions to your customer’s shopping experience.

You can also use tablets to show customers additional product information or help them make a purchase that will deliver directly to their homes.

What is a Visual Merchandiser?

A visual merchandiser (or VM for short) is responsible for maintaining a brand’s visual displays. Some companies have in-house visual merchandising teams, and some use freelance merchandisers.

The typical role of a visual merchandiser is to help change the windows, change the seasonal merchandise on the floor, dress mannequins, and highlight products that the brand wants to promote. A VM must understand the target customer and create ideal displays to attract shoppers, which converts sales.

Visual merchandising is a critical aspect of retail business and one that should not be overlooked.

It’s all about creating an inviting and memorable space that makes customers want to purchase your products and come back again and again. Today, you can buy anything online, but if you offer customers a unique shopping experience, they will still want to be repeat customers in person.

By following these tips, you can start to create visual displays that will help increase sales and represent your brand in the best light possible. Please reach out if you have any questions or need help getting started!

Keep the Inspiration Flowing

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Last Updated on August 8, 2024 by Beth Martin Three, two, one…Did that customer keep walking? You only have a few critical seconds to grab the attention of someone passing by. The retail signs you select are the first glimpse to attract customers and one of the most important tools in your visual merchandising toolbox….

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The Power of Visual Merchandising: Driving Sales in Your Store

Welcome to our article on the power of visual merchandising and how it can drive sales in your store. Have you ever walked into a store and immediately been drawn to a display? That’s the magic of visual merchandising at work. Visual merchandising is the art and science of creating attractive and engaging displays to showcase products and entice customers to make a purchase. It plays a crucial role in influencing consumer behavior and can significantly impact the success of your retail business.

In this article, we’ll explore the world of visual merchandising and its importance in the retail industry. We’ll delve into the psychology behind consumer behavior and how visual merchandising can tap into these insights to create a memorable shopping experience. We’ll also provide practical tips and strategies to help you create an appealing store layout, effectively display your products, and drive sales.

Whether you’re a boutique owner, a retail manager, or simply someone interested in the art of visual merchandising, this article will provide you with valuable insights and actionable advice to take your store to the next level . So, let’s dive in and unlock the power of visual merchandising!

Understanding Visual Merchandising

Welcome to the world of visual merchandising! In this section, we will delve into the definition and importance of visual merchandising, as well as explore the role it plays in the retail industry. We will also take a closer look at the psychology and consumer behavior behind visual merchandising.

Definition and Importance of Visual Merchandising

Visual merchandising can be defined as the practice of presenting products in a way that is visually appealing and enticing to customers. It involves the use of various techniques and strategies to create an attractive shopping environment that encourages customers to make a purchase.

The importance of visual merchandising cannot be overstated. It is a powerful tool that can significantly impact a store’s sales and success. Here are a few reasons why visual merchandising is crucial for your business:

• Enhances the shopping experience: Visual merchandising creates an immersive and enjoyable shopping experience for customers. By using creative displays and attractive product arrangements, you can capture their attention and make them feel excited about your offerings.
• Differentiates your brand: In today’s competitive retail landscape, it’s essential to stand out from the crowd. Visual merchandising allows you to showcase your brand’s unique personality and values, helping you differentiate yourself from competitors and attract loyal customers.
• Drives impulse purchases: By strategically placing products and using persuasive displays, visual merchandising can stimulate impulse purchases. Customers are more likely to make unplanned purchases when they encounter visually appealing products that evoke desire and curiosity.
• Increases sales conversion: A well-executed visual merchandising strategy can effectively guide customers through the buying journey. By organizing products in a logical and visually pleasing manner, you can lead customers to the point of sale and increase the chances of conversion.

Role of Visual Merchandising in Retail

Visual merchandising is integral to the success of the retail industry. Here are a few key roles that it plays:

• Attracts attention: In a crowded marketplace, grabbing customers’ attention is crucial. Visual merchandising uses elements like colors, lighting, and signage to create eye-catching displays that draw customers in and pique their interest.
• Communicates brand image and values: Through visual merchandising, retailers can effectively communicate their brand’s image and values. Every aspect, from the store layout to the product displays, serves as a visual representation of the brand’s identity.
• Encourages exploration and discovery: A well-designed store layout and product placement can encourage customers to explore different areas of the store and discover new products. This increases the likelihood of impulse purchases and boosts sales.

Psychology and Consumer Behavior in Visual Merchandising

Visual merchandising takes advantage of psychological principles and consumer behavior patterns to influence buying decisions. Here are a few ways in which psychology plays a role in visual merchandising:

• Color psychology: Colors have a significant impact on our emotions and behaviors. Using the right colors in your displays can create the desired mood and evoke specific emotions in customers. For example, warm colors like red and orange can create a sense of urgency and excitement, while cool colors like blue and green can evoke feelings of calmness and trust.
• Product placement: The position of products within a store can influence customers’ buying decisions. Placing high-margin items at eye level or near the checkout counter can increase their visibility and likelihood of purchase.
• Impulse triggers: Visual merchandising often uses triggers to prompt impulse purchases. These triggers can include limited-time offers, “buy one get one free” promotions, or product bundles that create a sense of urgency and scarcity.

Understanding the psychology and behavior of your target audience is key to effective visual merchandising. By tailoring your displays and strategies to appeal to their preferences and needs, you can maximize the impact of your efforts and drive sales in your store.

In the next section, we will explore how to create an appealing store layout that enhances the visual merchandising experience. So, keep reading to learn more!

Creating an Appealing Store Layout

When it comes to visual merchandising, creating an appealing store layout is crucial. The layout of your store plays a significant role in attracting customers, engaging them, and ultimately driving sales. A well-designed store layout can make a lasting impression on customers and enhance their overall shopping experience. Here are some key factors to consider when creating an appealing store layout:

Effective Space Planning and Store Design

Space planning is all about optimizing the available space in your store and arranging it in a way that maximizes product exposure and facilitates navigation for customers. Consider the following tips:

• Define different sections and zones within your store to distinguish between different product categories or themes.
• Ensure proper aisle width to allow for comfortable movement of customers, especially during peak hours.
• Place frequently purchased items closer to the entrance or checkout area to encourage impulse buying.

The Importance of Traffic Flow

The flow of traffic within your store can greatly impact the customer experience and their ability to discover and explore different products. Keep these points in mind:

• Design your store layout in a way that naturally guides customers through the store, leading them from one product section to another.
• Consider the path customers are likely to take when entering the store and strategically position high-margin or popular products along that path.
• Avoid creating dead-end aisles or blocking customer pathways with excessive displays, which can frustrate customers and hinder their movement.

Using Colors, Lighting, and Signage

Visual elements such as colors, lighting, and signage can significantly enhance the visual appeal and overall atmosphere of your store. Consider the following suggestions:

• Choose a color scheme that aligns with your brand image and complements the products you sell. For example, warm colors like orange and red can create a sense of energy and urgency, while cool colors like blue and green can evoke a feeling of calmness and relaxation.
• Optimize lighting to ensure proper visibility of products and create an inviting ambiance. Avoid harsh or dim lighting that may make it challenging for customers to see details or make accurate purchasing decisions.
• Use signage strategically to highlight promotions, product features, or store policies. Clear and informative signage can help customers navigate the store, find what they need, and make informed purchase decisions.

By paying attention to effective space planning, traffic flow, and the use of colors, lighting, and signage, you can create an appealing store layout that attracts customers, keeps them engaged, and ultimately drives sales. Remember, a well-designed store layout is like an inviting stage that showcases your products and sets the scene for a memorable shopping experience.

Product Placement and Display Techniques

When it comes to visual merchandising, one of the most important aspects is product placement and display techniques. How you showcase your products can have a significant impact on your customers’ buying decisions. By strategically placing and displaying your products, you can capture your customers’ attention and influence their purchasing behavior. In this section, we will explore some effective product placement and display techniques that can help you boost sales in your store.

Strategic Product Placement

The arrangement of products in your store plays a crucial role in visual merchandising. By strategically placing your products, you can create a visually appealing and well-organized display that attracts customers. Here are some tips for effective product placement:

• Eye Level Display: Place your high-profit or best-selling items at eye level . This ensures that they are easily visible to customers and increases the chances of them being noticed and purchased.
• Cross-Merchandising: Group related products together to encourage additional purchases. For example, display matching accessories next to clothing items or place complementary food products together.
• Impulse Zone: Create an impulse zone near the checkout counter where customers can find small, inexpensive items like candies or magazines. This encourages last-minute purchases and can significantly increase your average transaction value.

Creating Eye-catching Displays

Eye-catching displays are essential for grabbing customers’ attention and creating a memorable shopping experience. Here are some display techniques that can help you make a lasting impression:

• Mannequin Displays: Use mannequins to showcase complete outfits or highlight key fashion pieces. This can inspire customers and encourage them to purchase complementary items.
• Storytelling Displays: Create themed displays that tell a story or evoke a specific emotion. For example, a beach-themed display with sand, seashells, and beachwear can transport customers to their desired vacation destination.
• Product Tiers: Use tiered displays to showcase products of varying price points. This allows customers to easily compare different options and makes it more likely for them to find something within their budget.

Seasonal and Theme-based Visual Merchandising

Seasonal and theme-based visual merchandising is a powerful way to connect with your customers and create a sense of excitement in your store. Here are some ideas for incorporating seasonal and theme-based displays:

• Holiday Displays: Decorate your store according to different holidays throughout the year, such as Christmas, Halloween, or Valentine’s Day. This creates a festive atmosphere and can drive impulse purchases.
• Seasonal Displays: Update your displays regularly to reflect the current season. For example, during summer, you can showcase swimwear and beach accessories, while in winter, you can focus on cozy sweaters and winter gear.
• Limited-time Promotions: Create displays that highlight limited-time offers or special promotions. This creates a sense of urgency and encourages customers to make a purchase before the opportunity is gone.

By implementing effective product placement and display techniques, you can enhance the visual appeal of your store and increase sales. Remember to regularly review and refresh your displays to keep them engaging and relevant to your customers’ needs and preferences.

Visual Merchandising for Different Product Categories

Visual merchandising plays a crucial role in retail stores to attract customers, create desire, and ultimately drive sales. While the principles of visual merchandising remain consistent across different industries, there are specific strategies and techniques that work best for different product categories. In this section, we will explore visual merchandising strategies tailored for three popular product categories: apparel and fashion, home and lifestyle, and food and beverage.

Apparel and Fashion

When it comes to visual merchandising for apparel and fashion, it’s all about creating an aspirational and immersive shopping experience. Here are some key tips to maximize the impact of your displays:

• Utilize mannequins: Mannequins play a vital role in showcasing your latest fashion trends. Dress them in stylish outfits that reflect your store’s aesthetic and use accessories to enhance the overall look.
• Create themed displays: Themed displays can help create a specific mood or convey a particular style. For example, during the summer, you can create a beach-themed display for swimwear or a festival-inspired display for bohemian fashion.
• Highlight key pieces: Draw attention to your best-selling or high-value items by strategically placing them in prominent areas of your store. Use spotlights or creative props to make them stand out.

Home and Lifestyle

Visual merchandising for home and lifestyle products aims to create an inviting and inspiring atmosphere that showcases the potential of your products. Here’s how you can effectively merchandise this category:

• Create room-like displays: Set up displays that resemble different rooms in a home to help customers visualize how your products can enhance their own living spaces. For example, create a bedroom display with a neatly-made bed, cozy lighting, and accessories.
• Use props and accessories: Incorporate relevant props and accessories that complement your products. For example, if you sell kitchenware, display it alongside cookbooks, fresh ingredients, and cooking utensils to inspire customers to recreate a culinary experience.
• Incorporate sensory elements: Enhance the ambiance by adding sensory elements like soft music, scented candles , or even a coffee corner. This will create a pleasant and memorable shopping experience for your customers.

Food and Beverage

Visual merchandising for food and beverage items is all about tempting the senses and stimulating appetite. Consider these strategies to make your products irresistible:

• Showcase fresh ingredients: Use visually appealing displays of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other ingredients to showcase the quality and freshness of your products. Arrange them in eye-catching patterns or stack them in attractive baskets.
• Create mouthwatering displays: Arrange packaged food items in an aesthetically pleasing manner, such as pyramid displays or color-coordinated arrangements. Use food photography or signage to showcase the final product and inspire customers to purchase.
• Offer sampling stations: Allow customers to sample your food and beverages. This not only entices them to try something new but also creates a personal connection between your brand and the customer.

By tailoring your visual merchandising approach to fit the specific needs and expectations of different product categories, you can effectively capture the attention of your target customers and drive sales. Remember, it’s all about creating visually appealing displays and immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression on your customers.

Effective Visual Merchandising Strategies and Tips

When it comes to visual merchandising, there are several effective strategies and tips that can help you drive sales and create an engaging shopping experience for your customers. Whether you’re a small boutique or a large retail chain, these techniques can make a significant impact on your store’s success. Here are some strategies and tips to consider:

Highlighting Key Products and Promotions:

• Feature your best-selling products : Place your most popular items in prominent locations to catch the attention of your customers.
• Create focal points : Use displays, mannequins, or signage to draw attention to specific products or promotions.
• Use color contrast : Make use of color psychology by placing high-contrast products together to create visual interest. For example, place a brightly colored item next to a neutral item to make it stand out.

Utilizing Props and Visual Elements:

• Use props to enhance your displays : Props can add depth and context to your products, creating a more immersive shopping experience. For example, if you sell beachwear, you can use sand and seashells as props to create a beach-themed display.
• Incorporate visual elements : Consider incorporating elements such as mirrors, frames, or artwork to add visual interest and create a unique shopping environment.
• Utilize signage effectively : Use well-designed and informative signage to guide customers, highlight promotions, and provide product information.

Creating an Engaging Shopping Experience:

• Consider the customer journey : Think about the flow of your store and how customers will move through it. Make sure there is a clear path for customers to follow, leading them to different sections and products.
• Create interactive displays : Incorporate interactive elements, such as touch screens or product demonstrations, to engage customers and get them involved in the shopping experience.
• Update your displays regularly : Keep your displays fresh and exciting by changing them regularly. This encourages repeat visits and keeps customers interested in what’s new.

Remember, the goal of visual merchandising is to capture the attention of your customers, create a visually appealing environment, and ultimately drive sales. By implementing these strategies and tips, you can create a memorable shopping experience that will keep customers coming back for more.

“Visual merchandising is all about creating an environment that tells a story and triggers emotions, ultimately leading to a purchase.”

Technology and Digital Integration in Visual Merchandising

In today’s digital age, technology plays a significant role in the field of visual merchandising. The integration of technology into traditional merchandising techniques has opened up new avenues for retailers to engage with their customers and create immersive shopping experiences. Let’s explore how technology and digital integration have transformed visual merchandising.

Incorporating Digital Screens and Interactive Displays

One of the most prominent ways technology has revolutionized visual merchandising is through the use of digital screens and interactive displays. These eye-catching and dynamic elements can be strategically placed throughout the store to capture the attention of customers and convey brand messages effectively. Here are some ways retailers are utilizing technology in this aspect:

• Digital Signage: Digital screens can be used to display engaging content such as promotional videos, product showcases, and customer testimonials. Retailers can easily update and customize the content according to their marketing objectives. The use of motion graphics, animations, and vibrant visuals on these screens creates an immersive shopping experience.
• Interactive Displays: Interactive displays enable customers to engage with products in a more personal and interactive manner. For example, touchscreens can provide additional product information, suggest complementary items, or even allow customers to virtually try on apparel or experiment with different color options. Interactive displays enhance customer participation and lead to increased customer satisfaction and sales.

Online Visual Merchandising

With the rise of e-commerce, online visual merchandising has become critically important for retailers. The virtual store experience needs to be as visually appealing and seamless as the physical one. Here are some strategies for effective online visual merchandising:

• High-Quality Product Images: Clear and high-resolution product images are crucial for online visual merchandising. Customers rely heavily on visuals when making purchasing decisions online, so it is essential to provide them with detailed images that accurately represent the product.
• Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): VR and AR technologies have the potential to transform the online shopping experience. Retailers can leverage these technologies to allow customers to virtually try on clothing, visualize furniture in their homes, or virtually explore a store. By providing an interactive and immersive experience, retailers can attract and engage customers, resulting in increased conversions.
• Personalized Recommendations: Utilizing data analytics and algorithms, online retailers can provide personalized product recommendations based on a customer’s browsing history, purchase behavior, and preferences. This enhances the customer experience by making it easier for them to discover relevant products, ultimately leading to increased sales.

Harnessing Social Media for Visual Merchandising

Social media platforms have become powerful marketing tools for retailers. They offer unique opportunities for visual merchandising by allowing brands to showcase products, engage with customers, and drive traffic to their online and physical stores. Here are some ways retailers can harness the power of social media for visual merchandising:

• Visual Storytelling: Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are ideal for visually telling the story of your brand. Retailers can curate visually appealing content such as product photos, lifestyle shots, and behind-the-scenes glimpses. By crafting a compelling visual narrative, retailers can create a strong brand identity and resonate with their target audience.
• User-Generated Content: Encouraging customers to share their experiences and photos with your products on social media can be a powerful visual merchandising strategy. User-generated content not only provides social proof but also allows retailers to showcase their products in real-life settings. Retailers can repost and engage with user-generated content, fostering a sense of community and loyalty among customers.
• Influencer Partnerships: Collaborating with social media influencers or bloggers who align with your brand values can extend the reach of your visual merchandising efforts. Influencers can create visually compelling content featuring your products, driving traffic and generating buzz around your brand.

The integration of technology and digital platforms into visual merchandising has revolutionized the way retailers engage with customers and create impactful shopping experiences. By harnessing the power of digital screens, interactive displays, online visual merchandising, and social media, retailers can stay ahead of the curve and drive sales in their stores.

So, embrace technology in your visual merchandising strategies and leverage the digital landscape to provide your customers with a visually stunning and immersive shopping experience.

Training and Development for Visual Merchandisers

Visual merchandising requires a unique set of skills and expertise to create visually appealing displays and effectively showcase products. Training and development play a crucial role in enhancing the abilities of visual merchandisers and ensuring their success in this field. Here are some key aspects of training and development for visual merchandisers:

Understanding the Role of a Visual Merchandiser

• Visual merchandisers are responsible for the overall visual presentation of a store or brand.
• They must have a deep understanding of the target audience, brand identity, and marketing objectives.
• Through training, merchandisers learn about the importance of maintaining brand consistency and aligning visual efforts with the overall marketing strategy.

Visual Merchandising Techniques and Best Practices

• Training programs focus on teaching merchandisers about various visual merchandising techniques and best practices.
• They learn how to create attractive product displays, utilize space effectively, and implement effective signage and lighting.
• Merchandisers are trained on the principles of visual hierarchy, color psychology, and the use of props and visual elements to enhance the overall look and feel of a store.

Continuous Learning and Skill Enhancement

• Visual merchandising is a dynamic field that constantly evolves with changing consumer trends and technological advancements.
• Training and development programs emphasize the importance of continuous learning and skill enhancement.
• Merchandisers are encouraged to stay updated with industry trends, attend workshops and seminars, and explore new technologies and tools that can enhance their visual merchandising abilities.

Training and development for visual merchandisers can take various forms, including workshops, on-the-job training, and mentorship programs. These programs provide merchandisers with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their roles and contribute to the success of the store or brand.

“The more you learn, the more you’ll earn.” – Warren Buffett

By investing in the training and development of visual merchandisers, retailers can benefit in the following ways:

• Improved Visual Merchandising: Well-trained merchandisers can create visually appealing displays that attract customers and enhance the overall shopping experience.
• Increased Sales: Effective visual merchandising techniques can lead to increased product visibility and customer engagement, ultimately driving sales.
• Brand Consistency: Proper training ensures that merchandisers understand the brand’s image, values, and objectives, resulting in consistent representation across all stores.
• Adaptability: Training equips visual merchandisers with the skills to adapt to changing market trends and consumer preferences, ensuring their relevance and effectiveness in the long run.

Investing in training and development for visual merchandisers is crucial for retailers who aim to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. By equipping their visual merchandisers with the right knowledge and skills, retailers can create memorable shopping experiences and drive sales in their stores.

Continue reading: Measuring the Success of Visual Merchandising

Measuring the success of visual merchandising.

Visual merchandising is not just about creating a visually appealing store or displaying products in an organized manner. It is also about driving sales and maximizing the impact of your efforts. But how do you know if your visual merchandising strategies are actually working? That’s where measuring success comes in.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Visual Merchandising

To determine the effectiveness of your visual merchandising efforts, you need to establish clear Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that align with your business goals. Here are some common KPIs that can help you measure the success of your visual merchandising:

• Sales Conversion Rate: This KPI measures the percentage of visitors who make a purchase. It gives you an indication of how well your visual merchandising is influencing customers to convert.
• Average Transaction Value: This KPI calculates the average amount customers spend per transaction. If you see an increase in this metric, it shows that your visual merchandising is encouraging customers to spend more.
• Customer Satisfaction: By collecting feedback from customers through surveys or online reviews, you can gauge their level of satisfaction with your store’s visual presentation. Happy customers are more likely to make repeat purchases and recommend your store to others.
• Footfall: Tracking the number of visitors to your store can help you understand the impact of your visual merchandising efforts. If footfall increases after implementing new visual merchandising techniques or layouts, it indicates that your strategies are attracting more customers.

Collecting and Analyzing Data

To measure these KPIs effectively, you need to collect and analyze data. Here are some methods to consider:

• Point of Sale (POS) Data: Your POS system can provide valuable insights into sales conversion rates, average transaction values, and other related metrics. By analyzing this data, you can identify trends and patterns that can guide your visual merchandising strategies.
• Store Surveys: Conducting surveys or interviews with customers can give you direct feedback on their perception of your store’s visual merchandising. Ask questions about product displays, store layout, and overall experience to gather valuable insights.
• Heat Mapping: Heat mapping technology uses sensors to track customer movement within your store. By analyzing these heat maps, you can identify the most visited areas and make informed decisions about product placement and visual displays.
• Website Analytics: If you have an online store, don’t forget to analyze website analytics to understand how customers interact with your product images and visual content. Look for metrics like time spent on product pages, click-through rates, and conversion rates.

Making Data-driven Improvements

Once you have collected and analyzed the data, it’s time to make data-driven improvements to your visual merchandising strategies. Here are some tips to help you optimize your efforts:

• Experiment and Iterate: Visual merchandising is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Test different layouts, displays, and product placements to see which ones yield the best results. Continuously iterate and refine your strategies based on the data you collect.
• Align with Trends: Stay up to date with industry trends and consumer preferences. Incorporate popular colors, themes, and visual elements that resonate with your target audience. By aligning with trends, you can capture the attention of your customers and drive sales.
• Training and Development: Invest in training and development for your visual merchandising team. Equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to execute successful strategies. Provide regular feedback and encourage creativity to foster continuous improvement.

By measuring the success of your visual merchandising efforts, you can make informed decisions, optimize your strategies, and ultimately drive more sales in your store. Remember, it’s important to regularly review and adapt your visual merchandising approach to stay relevant and capture the attention of your customers.

In conclusion, visual merchandising is a powerful tool that can greatly impact the success of your retail store. By strategically designing your store layout, creating eye-catching displays, and utilizing effective merchandising strategies, you can attract customers, drive sales, and enhance the overall shopping experience. Here are some key takeaways from this article:

• Visual merchandising involves the art of crafting an appealing shopping environment through the use of layout, display techniques, and visual elements.
• It plays a crucial role in retail by capturing the attention of customers, influencing their purchasing decisions, and creating a memorable brand experience.
• Understanding the psychology and behavior of consumers can help you design your store in a way that effectively appeals to their desires and emotions.
• Effective space planning, traffic flow management, and the use of colors, lighting, and signage are essential in creating an appealing store layout.
• Strategic product placement and eye-catching displays can draw attention to key products and promotions, increasing their chances of being purchased.
• Visual merchandising techniques may vary depending on the product category, with different strategies being used for apparel and fashion, home and lifestyle, and food and beverage.
• Incorporating technology and digital integration, such as digital screens, interactive displays, online merchandising, and social media, can enhance the visual appeal of your store and engage customers in new ways.
• Continuous training and development for visual merchandisers is important to keep up with the latest trends, techniques, and best practices in the field.
• Measuring the success of visual merchandising can be done through key performance indicators (KPIs) and data analysis, allowing you to make data-driven improvements to your strategies.

By implementing these visual merchandising strategies and applying your own creativity and brand identity, you can create a captivating and enticing shopping experience that will not only boost sales but also leave a lasting impression on your customers. Remember to constantly adapt and evolve your visual merchandising techniques to stay relevant and ahead of the competition. So go ahead, unleash the power of visual merchandising and watch your sales soar!

Frequently Asked Questions

Visual merchandising is the practice of creating an attractive and visually appealing in-store display to showcase products, promote sales, and enhance the overall shopping experience.

Visual merchandising influences sales by capturing the attention of customers, highlighting key products, creating a visually pleasing environment, and encouraging impulse purchases.

Some key elements of effective visual merchandising include strategic product placement, eye-catching signage, creative use of colors and lighting, attractive window displays, and well-organized product layouts.

Yes, visual merchandising can be implemented in online stores through the use of high-quality product images, virtual product displays, interactive features, and compelling website design.

To improve your visual merchandising efforts, consider conducting market research, staying updated with current design trends, regularly rearranging displays, analyzing customer feedback, and seeking inspiration from successful retail stores.

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What is Visual Merchandising?

Anyone who has ever walked into a retail store has seen visual merchandising at work. Visual merchandising is a marketing practice that uses floor plans, color, lighting, displays, technology, and other elements to attract customer attention. Its ultimate purpose is to use the retail space to generate more sales.

A visual merchandiser is the person behind the magic. They combine marketing principles, retail merchandising knowledge, and creativity to use the space and layout of the store to present the store’s inventory in a positive way. They are professionally trained and may be tasked to manage the following:

• Window installations
• In-store displays
• Interactive displays
• Point-of-sale displays
• Price tickets
• Promotional / seasonal displays
• Mannequin styling

Benefits of Visual Merchandising

All types of retail stores can benefit from visual merchandising. Some of the key benefits include:

Reflects your brand – A good visual merchandising display stays in-line with the company’s overall brand. For example, a franchise business might want all its franchisees to have the same promotional displays. It gives a business a sense of identity and brand consistency.

Engages the shoppers – An attractive and welcoming store creates a positive first impression. It encourages people to come into the store, and can help guide them in finding the right product for their needs. Visual merchandising helps create a positive shopping experience for customers so that they will be more likely to return for future visits.

Grow sales – When done effectively, visual merchandising can increase sales by directing people to the products they want or need. It can also help them discover new products and solutions. A nicely dressed mannequin can encourage a person to seek out an outfit and accessories that they may not have originally been looking for.

Whether you are selling clothes, hardware, electronics, food, or anything else, a professional visual merchandiser can be an important asset to your team. They can help your retail business get the results you want.