In-Depth Notes on Effective Merchandising in Food Service Operations

Definition of Merchandising

  • Merchandising refers to visual or display marketing aimed at attracting customer interest through the selection and presentation of product items.

    • Considerations:

    • Layout of the selling area

    • Flow of customers

    • Finalizing Aspects: Packaging and branding must be complete prior to merchandising.

  • from notes: Stand out, unique, attract customers, engage senses

Use of Fixtures and Fittings

  • Utilizing different display types to enhance visibility and attract customers:

    • Gondola Displays:

    • Tables and Bins:

    • Flat-based Decks:

Types of Displays

  • Different display styles include:

    • Vertical Bands: Utilize vertical space effectively.

    • Pyramid Display: Draws focal attention to specific products.

    • Horizontal Displays: Utilize flat, surface areas for product placement.

    • stacking

Effective Merchandising Factors

  • Key factors contributing to successful merchandising strategies include:

    • Variety: A diverse range of products to meet customer needs.

    • Flexibility: Ability to rotate products for seasonal events.

    • Branding & Co-branding: Building recognizable brand identities and strategic partnerships.

    • Product Placement: Strategic positioning of goods in the store to encourage purchases.

    • Group Product Display: Placing related items together enhances the shopping experience.

    • Ease of Access: Ensuring products are easy to reach and view for customers.

    • Promotions: Utilizing sales strategies to attract attention and stimulate purchases.

Types of Merchandising Goods

  • Understanding different types of products can tailor merchandising strategies:

    • Convenience Goods: Staple products essential for daily living; widely available.

    • Impulse Goods: Products purchased without significant prior consideration./last minute

    • Shopping Products: Require information for comparison among different brands./ research

    • Specialty Goods: Unique items that customers are willing to pay a premium for due to brand loyalty./

  • Product placement- brands at oilers game

  • collaboration- 2 companies helping each other to sell products