The way products are displayed in your stores can significantly influence customer behavior and sales. One of the most effective strategies in visual merchandising is vertical merchandising. This approach not only maximizes shelf space but also enhances product visibility and accessibility, leading to increased sales. This will leverage the natural movement of the customer's eye, which tends to scan shelves from top to bottom rather than side to side. By strategically placing products in vertical sections, retailers can create visually appealing displays that enhance product visibility and encourage higher sales using planograms. Let us explore the concept of vertical merchandising, its benefits, and practical tips for implementation with the help of shelf space planning.

Understanding Vertical Merchandising

It involves organizing products on shelves in vertical columns rather than horizontal rows. This technique leverages the natural scanning pattern of customers, who typically look from top to bottom when browsing shelves. By arranging products in vertical sections, retailers can create a more organized and visually appealing display that guides customer’s shopping.

Benefits of Vertical Merchandising

• Enhanced product visibility: Vertical displays ensure that a range of products is visible at different eye levels, increasing the likelihood of catching a customer’s attention. Products placed at eye level typically sell better because they are more visible and accessible. Retailers can use this prime space with the help of planograms high-margin or popular items. For children's products, consider their eye level to maximize the impact.
• Improved shopping experience: A well-organized vertical display helps customers find what they are looking for more easily, improving their shopping experience. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
• Efficient use of space: Vertical merchandising allows retailers to utilize vertical space effectively, maximizing the number of products displayed without overcrowding shelves. This efficient use of space can be particularly beneficial in smaller stores.
• Increased sales: By making it easier for customers to see and access products, vertical merchandising can lead to an increase in the chances of impulse purchases and overall sales. Customers are more likely to notice complementary items and make additional purchases.

Practical Tips for Effective Vertical Merchandising

• Strategic placement of products: Place high-demand and high-margin products at eye level to maximize visibility. Products at this level are more likely to be noticed and purchased. Less popular items can be placed higher or lower on the shelves.
• Cross-merchandise products: Place complementary items vertically to encourage cross-merchandising. In a convenience store, you could stack snacks above beverages or place toothbrushes above toothpaste using planograms. This not only boosts sales but also enhances convenience for customers.
• Use clear signage: Clearly label different sections of the shelf to guide customers. Use signs to highlight offers, special promotions, new arrivals, or bestsellers. This can draw shopper’s attention to specific products and encourage purchases.
• Keep shelves well-stocked: Ensure that shelves are always fully stocked, and products are neatly arranged in your stores. Empty or disorganized shelves can create a negative impression and deter customers.
• Rotate products regularly: Regularly change the placement of products to keep the display fresh and interesting. This can also help in identifying which products perform better at different levels.
• Leverage lighting:Use lighting to highlight specific sections of the shelf. Proper lighting can make products more attractive and draw customers’ attention to specific areas.

Overview of Nexgen POG

Nexgen POG is a robust and user-friendly cloud-based visual merchandising tool. It is designed for quick and efficient planogramming with minimal effort. Planogram in retail can be designed by easily dragging and dropping the products. The multi-device compatibility feature of POG allows you to obtain, share and edit planogram on any device, including your phone. It helps in designing store-specific planograms for increased product visibility and sales.

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