Merchandising comes in many forms. A company’s ability to be successful with merchandising enables its products to be more desirable and recognizable, thus increasing sales. Merchandising includes promotions and activities related to products but also refers to how products physically exist in a store. Planogramming is an important part of merchandising that cannot be ignored.
What Is Planogramming?
A planogram is sometimes referred to as a space plan, a shelf space plan, or schematics. It is a tool used for visualizing products in a store. Planograms are typically diagrams or models that lay out the physical space of a store. It outlines the different departments in a store and suggests where they should be located within a particular space. It also includes the products that would potentially be in each aisle, as well as displays and a point-of-sale area. A planogram isn’t just a simple set of ideas, but instead is a very detailed and intricate set of information. Planogramming is the act of completing this set of instructions.
Aspects Of A Planogram
Several different items go into a fully realized planogram. Different sections of a store typically have 5 to 6 seconds to get the attention of a buyer. With the proper planogram, companies can position products and add-on sales together in order to maximize profits.
Planograms include several different things:
- Placement of products. Where a product is placed is important. Items that are more popular should have the most amount of shelf space.
- Display of products. A planogram will outline the amount of space that different manufacturers want for their products. This is usually related to how popular the item is. A planogram might also suggest new display ideas for products.
- Inventory control. While a planogram won’t specifically lay out this information, it can help a store to manage its inventory by knowing how much product the store needs to display, and how much it should have on hand.
Planogram Benefits
Using a planogram for merchandising can result in a large array of benefits. Some of the benefits include:
- Space maximization. By having a diagram that lays out where departments and products go, it’s much easier to maximize the amount of space a store has rather than making decisions on the fly.
- Enhancing visual appeal. The number one goal of a planogram is to sell more products. When products are displayed in a more appealing way, they’re more likely to sell.
- Inventory management. Planogramming helps to better organize and manage inventory.
How To Make Your Own Planogram
There are many ways to create your own planogram. Hiring an expert will help you build ideas about products and placement. An expert will know the best ways to lay out your store to maximize your profits. Knowing what items are projected to sell best and creating a detailed plan for product placement is the first place to start.
Planograms are an integral part of merchandising and can make or break your business. For more information about best practices for merchandising and starting your journey, contact RIVIR today.
