Display and Merchandising Basics
What this domain tests
This domain checks whether you can arrange stock so it sells: display types, shelf hierarchy, ticketing and planogram compliance. Questions often ask which display suits a product or what is wrong in a described display.
Core concepts
- Visual merchandising uses placement, colour, lighting and signage to attract attention and increase sales.
- Display types: window display, point-of-purchase (POP) display, thematic/seasonal display, cross-merchandising (related items together), colour blocking, pyramid, stepped, hanging, and dump-bin/pile display.
- Shelf hierarchy: eye level (prime, usually private-label and high-margin items), reach level, bend level, and top/bottom shelves for bulk or slow movers.
- Facing: pull products to the front edge, labels facing out, and block by brand and size.
- FIFO on shelf: older stock in front, newer behind, so expiry-dated goods rotate.
- Signage and ticketing: every displayed item must carry the correct price tag; promotional tags must state the offer clearly.
- Cleanliness and safety: no dusty packs, no overhanging stock, no display blocking walkways.
Worked example
A shampoo planogram requires Brand A at eye level, 4 facings, sizes 100 ml to 400 ml left to right. On the shelf, the 400 ml pack sits at the left, a 100 ml pack is pushed to the back, and two facings are missing. Correct action: bring all facings forward, reorder sizes left to right as per planogram, and pull the older 100 ml pack to the front.
Traps that cost marks
- Putting the newest dated stock in front.
- Overfacing one brand and squeezing out a listed SKU.
- Using a display that hides the price tag or blocks the aisle.
- Assuming eye level is for heavy bulk packs.