Visual merchandising has come a long way. Retailers who focus on in-store visual merchandising have a huge advantage in capturing more sales. Marketing professionals use eye-catching displays to optimize the presence of a product or limited-time offer to engage consumers in a retail environment. From designing, producing displays and executing them in a prepared fashion, requires planning and effort.
With high investment, retail displays can fail if retailers are not supported by an efficient supply chain. Third-party logistics providers, like Evans Distribution Systems, has partnered with many retailers in support of the retail display execution.
The 3PL Advantage
Point-of-purchase promotions come in a wide variety of designs, formats, shapes, and sizes. 3PLs have the skills and resources to account for every unique display and assembly. From signage, seasonal promotions, new product launches, the display industry is constantly producing new materials that need to be received, stored and accurately accounted for.
3PLs help merchandisers track and trace displays by SKU with state-of-the-art inventory management systems. They are also equipped with the material handling resources and labor to assemble the displays based on instructional guidance and coordinate shipments to the right retail locations within the delivery timelines.
Seasonality plays an important role in merchandising as many promotions are tied to holidays that are likely to have an uptick in sales. 3PLs have the flexibility to scale up or down quickly during these seasonal upticks even when there is limited advanced notice. Logistics experts can optimize shipment routes to retailers by region for increased shipping speeds.
Having a centralized partner for all display products allows retailers to take advantage of bulk purchasing. This ensures brand consistency across multiple retailers and cost savings. Display experience provides training to 3PL associates that improves assembly accuracy and quality. Delicate or bulky materials require specialized handling that is engrained in an experienced 3PL operation.
Display Partnerships Keeps You Competitive
In a highly competitive retail environment, a thoughtful and engaging display could be the differentiator for your brand or store. Studies have shown that customer experience drives sales and your bottom line. If heavy investments in visual merchandising are to be successful, almost always, a qualified 3PL like Evans is behind the operation and execution.