As the retail industry continues to evolve, so does the role of retail merchandising.
With the recent trend of understaffed retail stores, many brands are left to face the consequences of reduced stock replenishment, fewer testers, damaged or incomplete displays, and increased theft. In this blog, we will explore the implications of understaffed retail stores on retail merchandising and how brands can protect themselves in the face of these challenges.
Retailers are understaffed.
Worldwide, it's a fact that retailers are unable to find enough staff, and those they can employ may not be of the calibre they would like. The recession is also meaning retailers are looking for a way to operate with a smaller team. This has many ramifications, some are strikingly apparent as you enter a store, with no one to ask for help, and often long queues at the till.
Merchandising is one of the first areas to see a huge impact, staff simply do not have time to replenish stands, clean, ensure displays are in place, or replace testers.
This means that your brand will suffer in terms of product visibility and accessibility. Shoppers will not be able to find the products they are looking for., therefore choosing another brand or leaving the store without a purchase.
What does this mean for your brand?
When retailers are understaffed, it can negatively impact your brand's in-store presence. Customers may encounter empty shelves or incomplete displays, which can lead to frustration and a negative view of your brand. Additionally, testers may not be replaced and displays can be left damaged, leading to a lack of accessibility to try your products.
On top of these issues, theft is also likely to be higher in understaffed stores. Without sufficient staff to monitor the sales floor and ensure proper security measures are in place, your products may be more vulnerable to theft. This not only affects your brand financially but also affects the availability of your products for customers. Regular merchandising ensures stock levels are replenished and losses are noted with appropriate staff.
What can you do?
Fortunately, there are solutions to mitigate these risks. Brands can consider outsourcing retail merchandising to professional merchandising services. This concept involves hiring experts in the field to manage and maintain your product displays in-store. Outsourcing retail merchandising can ensure your products are always properly displayed and readily available to customers, despite staffing shortages. This will have a huge, positive impact on your brand.
However, it's essential to choose a reputable retail merchandising company that has experience working with retailers in a variety of settings.
VSS Ltd
VSS Ltd are experts in merchandising, with nearly three decades of experience in the industry. VSS Ltd has established itself as a leading authority in merchandising, showcasing our expertise and knowledge.
Our field team has incredible experience, ongoing training, and a love of merchandising. Not just any retail merchandising company – we can offer you a customised approach to merchandising that meets your unique needs and goals. By doing so, you can ensure that your brand is always well-represented, even in an environment where retail staffing is lacking.
Our merchandisers span across New Zealand, from bustling cities to remote towns, ensuring our nationwide presence.
Our reporting system is second to none, giving you complete access to your brands in-store. Your online portal will show you every one of your stands, and product displays on each and every call we make.
Overall, it's clear that the impact of understaffed retail stores goes beyond just long wait times and unanswered customer questions. It can significantly impact your brand's ability to sell products effectively. Now is the time to ensure you are proactive in protecting your brand and sales.