In this year where forecasting sales has been a real challenge it is interesting to see the holiday merchandising in stores. While I was doing some shopping, I did take a few photos to share. Obviously, time in stores is limited and we have to respect the advice of public health to get in and get out. I did have to wait in line at one store which might have been more a function of an impending snowstorm which always drives people into the stores.
Key take aways would be:
- More focus on bundling products and using a round number like $20.
- All of the challenges of just getting products produced likely limited any new or truly incremental items.
- Seasonal control label gets prime merchandising spots.
- There are opportunities to ‘do the work’ for consumers in items such as ready to serve cheese plates where you can charge a premium.
- Seasonal items in departments like natural food indicates volume continues to increase and the numbers support a limited time offer.
- Displays seem to be smaller as retailers and suppliers are still struggling to really predict volume. A second factor limiting creative merchandising is labour in stores is focused on the basics and providing a safe shopping environment.
We hope you enjoy the photos and that you are able to get into stores while you are shopping to learn for next year.
Peter