Various factors come into play while determining how much sales you drive in your store every day. One crucial factor that most people overlook is the store layout and organization, which may stand between you and success. Having the right store organization sends a message to your customers, telling them whether to buy from you or stay away from your business. It might even make a first impression to your customers. It can attract or repel new customers; therefore, you need to organize your store in the best way possible. Below are the ways one can leverage store organization to increase sales.
Use the right floor plan
A floor plan defines the overall appearance of your store. There are many plans, including the straight floor plan, angular, and loop plan. Choosing an appropriate floor plan helps you choose a good layout, which affects three critical things; how customers move around the store, the equipment that will be used to transport inventory to its rightful place, and the ease of cleaning.
Investing in the right floor plan ensures that your customers and their shopping carts move smoothly in a clean store. It will give them an exceptional experience, and they’ll keep coming back with new customers.
The ease of moving around a store is something many people might not even consciously be aware of. However, it can make all the difference.
Categorization of goods
Always categorize your inventory for your customers to easily find what they’re looking for. For instance, food items belong to the food section, clothes go to the textiles section, and electrical appliances belong to the electronics section. You should always put goods where customers expect to find them. This might seem like common sense, but being extra mindful about where you place items can help your customers’ experience.
However, if you’re running a wholesale superstore with thousands of items, cross-merchandising isn’t bad. This tactic is used by many store owners to display eye-catching inventory that customers might be interested in. It motivates them to buy more items, thereby increasing your sales.
Appropriate Shelving
Shelving is a tactic to make your inventory look as neat as possible. Other than drawing the customer’s attention to particular items, strategically-placed shelves allow storekeepers to place clear price tags for items on display. Always set up well-organized shelves to catch the customer’s eye, and this will increase your sales in the long run.
Store organization is just as important as your inventory, employees, and marketing efforts. Most people will be turned off by a disorganized store, and if your customers can’t find things or retrieve items safely from the shelves, you’re well on your way to your downfall. They may never again step into your premises. Always arrange your store in a logical order and have people willing to guide customers if you’re running a wholesale superstore.
Emma is a freelance writer based out of Boston, MA. She writes most often on health and education. When not writing, she enjoys reading and watching film noir. Say hi on Twitter @EmmaSturgis2
