The most important part of the planogram process is not only execution but the pre-work before making the planogram available. Many retailers today work with their suppliers to pre-set the planogram in what is known as the retailer set room. During this time, the planogram goes from a paper process to the physical layout to understand where we can merchandise and layout the category in a method that attracts the buyer, display product innovation of new items, introduce excitement into the category and meet the basic merchandising standards driven by the retailer.
With COVID-19, the process of planogram pre-set is near impossible. The risks of health, wellness, safety and social distancing have created new challenges to the process. However, the importance of this process is critical to ensuring the planogram meets consumer needs. Not to mention, as curbside and online sales continue to grow, the planogram plays and even greater role in shelf capacity planning to ensure on-shelf availability and the “Pick-Path” for the in-store shoppers supporting BOPIS. How can we continue this critical process without meeting? Answer: Virtual and Augmented reality!
