Retail Store Operations and Merchandise Handling
Store operations questions test whether you can open, run and close a store safely, receive and handle merchandise correctly, and keep the sales floor full and presentable. Expect sequencing questions, checklists and what-would-you-do-first scenarios.
Core rules
- Opening: walk the floor for safety and cleanliness, switch on lights and POS, check float, verify signage and price tags, confirm staff attendance and replenish fast movers.
- Receiving: match purchase order to carton count, inspect for damage, record a GRN, report short or excess supply, and move stock to the right location.
- Handling: keep cartons off the sales floor, stack by weight and stability, follow FIFO/FEFO, tag and price correctly, and separate damaged, expired or returned stock.
- Replenishment: fill from the back, face up labels, follow the planogram, and remove empty cartons immediately.
- Closing: reconcile cash, secure high-value stock, clear waste, switch off non-essential equipment, and lock up as per the checklist.
- 5S-sort, set in order, shine, standardise, sustain-keeps backrooms and shelves workable.
Worked example
A carton marked 24 units arrives with only 22 and a torn side. Reasoning: count before signing, note the shortage and damage on the delivery document, photograph if permitted, inform the supervisor, and file a GRN for 22 saleable units. Never sign received-in-good-condition and adjust later.
Traps
- Accepting stock without checking against the purchase order.
- Mixing damaged goods with saleable stock.
- Blocking aisles or fire exits with cartons.
- Replenishing only the front row while back stock stays unrotated.