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6 tips for improving retail merchandising

Across the world, there are successful retail stores increasing basket sizes because of a few simple tactics. Ever noticed why some of the most exciting things are at the entrance of Costco? It’s because they want to showcase the best stock.

If you operate a small store, or even if you’re a manager of a large chain, we’ve put together 6 easy to implement merchandising tactics that will help add value to your shoppers’ basket.

Display the wants not the needs

Customers already know why they’re going into a store, more often than not it’s because they need something. Use a display to feature the higher value items that they want. For example, a customer shopping for screws in a DIY store is likely to get a sense of wanting if they see a high-quality cordless drill.

Break up the aisles with a display

Studies have shown that 20% of a store’s merchandise is looked over due to the monotony of aisles. By introducing areas with different layouts, customers refocus their attention on the products in that area.

Sell the lifestyle and benefits

An effective part of merchandising is showing the customer what the benefits are to them. By incorporating effective product signage and imagery customers can begin to buy into the lifestyle that you are promoting and they will have a better understanding of how the products can benefit them.

Showcase your best stock first

When customers walk into a store they want to be immediately impressed. By showcasing your high ticket items customers are seeing the best you have to offer as soon as they enter. B&Q is a prime example, effectively showcasing items such as hot tubs and BBQs during summer months.

Rotate the featured stock

It’s important that the everyday items remain in the same place so that returning customers know where to head. However, to increase basket size throughout the year, relevant stock should be rotated. After all, there’s no point in promoting BBQs in November (unless you live in Australia!)

Prop your window display

Customers are attuned to window displays of products. Almost every store on the high street showcases their products. To gain an edge over your competitors try incorporating eye-catching props that may not necessarily relate to your products but will grab the attention of the shopper.

Employee Awards 2021

Every year we aim to recognise and reward the individuals in our teams who have gone above and beyond while embodying our company values. Without further ado, here are the 2021 winners! New Employee of the Year Award  For surpassing expectations of a new starter, always turns up for work and receives good feedback.Winner – Clinton BruceShortlisted nominations – Gary Christer, Saffron Day, and Michael Saunders Directors Award  Identified as an integral person within our business who has worked to a consistently high standard throughout the year.Winner – Luke RandleShortlisted nominations – Gary Christer and Jason Crawley Effective Communication Award  Communicates effectively with Bluestones Management, Resource and Field Teams as well as with the customerWinner – Angie LittleShortlisted nominations – Neil Warin, Ronnie Zvejnieks, Luke Randle, Brian Gudgin, and Jason Crawley Commitment Award  Consistently shows a high level of commitment and the level of commitment regardless of the situation has never faulted.Winner – Neil WarinShortlisted nominations – Steve Kershaw, Evrod Jackson, Luke Randle, and Nigel Bew Above and Beyond Award  Dedicated to getting the job done and always goes the extra mile to achieve great results.Winner – Mike WebbShortlisted nominations – Ronnie Zvejnieks, Luke Randle, Gary Christer, and Michael Saunders Leadership Award  Leads by example and represents the Bluestones One brand in a positive way

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