Merchandising, Display and Store Operations
What the domain covers
This domain tests how goods are selected, arranged and presented, and how the store is run day to day. It includes planograms, visual merchandising, shelf space, store layout, housekeeping and opening or closing routines.
Core rules and concepts
- Planogram: a diagram showing where each product sits on a fixture; it links space to sales and margin.
- Visual merchandising principles: visibility, accessibility, cleanliness, colour blocking, logical grouping and signage with correct prices.
- Placement logic: high-demand items may be at the back to pull customers through the store; impulse items near checkout; heavy items low; children's items at child eye level.
- Store operations: opening checks, cleaning, lighting, temperature control for perishables, price verification, replenishment and closing cash and security checks.
- Space productivity: sales per square foot or per shelf metre helps compare displays.
Worked example
A small store wants to raise impulse sales at checkout. List the top five fast-moving small items by unit sales and gross margin. Place the highest-margin item at easy reach, the cheapest anchor item lower, and keep the counter uncluttered. Check that every item has a shelf price and stock behind the display. After two weeks, compare unit sales with the previous period. If sales rise without blocking the billing area, keep the planogram; if not, adjust.
Traps that cost marks
Overcrowding shelves; blocking aisles or emergency exits; displaying items without stock; price tags that differ from the POS; ignoring expiry dates during replenishment; treating display as decoration rather than a sales tool.