When you enter a store, you might notice rows of neatly and systematically arranged products with proper space between the aisles. They are not randomly arranged so, a lot of thought and even blueprints of the shelves are made for effective placement of the products. But why exactly does a store need a strategic plan of product placement, otherwise known as a Planogram?

Planograms are a key to successful visual merchandising. They are schematic drawing tools used by retailers to drive in more in-store sales. 

How to make an effective planogram?

Ideally, planograms pay close attention to details as a lot of thought goes behind sketching them. It is not merely fitting all the items into the shelves but making sure all the products are strategically placed to attract customers. Even if you’re a small store and you don’t have a detailed planogram yet, you can use the philosophies as an inspiration to draw up an effective layout.

Factors like – brand, price, visual aesthetics, new arrivals, popularity, necessary items, and more have to be considered before planning the layout of the shelves. You can take help from a sales force automation software to device one.

Why a planogram?

FMCG or Consumer Durables rely on planning and strategizing to stay on top of their game. A lack of planning can lead to many missed opportunities, and nobody wants that! A well-organized floor plan makes it easy for the customer to navigate through the store. Smart placement of the right products at the right place can make them inadvertently pick out items not even on their shopping list. A well thought out visual merchandising will:

• Increase sales: A good first impression goes a long way. A well-organized floor plan will not only just attract more customers but also helps in retaining them. Data shows that a major part of sales is derived from returning customers. Whether it is an FMCG or other consumer product companies, they all target to create a loyal customer base. Proper alignment of products will increase the customer experience, helping in maximizing your sales.
• Increase Cross Sales: Intelligent placement of items like placing complementary items near each other or placing necessary items at the back or end shelf to make customers walk through ‘other items’ to get them to help boost the cross-sales of additional items.
• Help in effective inventory management: Efficiently planning has more advantages than you can think. It helps you restock before things run out. You can keep your store shelves from looking like a deserted island of sold-out goods.
• Help in space management: Planograms can help in using every nook and corner of the store effectively. A planned layout will let you come up with creative and strategic displays of products. Using the store space to its maximum potential could also be very cost-effective.

Planograms are vital for an effective visual representation of the store. They help to catch customers’ attention and also increase shopping convenience. A sales force automation software can help you craft this tool seamlessly.