How to Merchandise with Limited Space

With so many wonderful seasonal summer offerings, it can be challenging to decide what products to bring in if you have a small department or limited space to work with. Don’t let space limit your offerings! You can build an eye-catching display with many varieties and products in a small space. Here are some great tips and suggestions for small stores to make a big impact!

• Use Baskets & Bowls: Utilize small, attractive baskets in tight spaces to separate similar looking products like red and black plums, and pluots. This can help avoid confusion and let you bring in all the varieties your customers are looking for. It’s worth investing in a few nice bowls and baskets, as they can be used throughout the year and add a nice touch to displays. They are also great for delicate or riper fruit, like figs, that don’t want to be handled.
• Show Variety: Create a focal-point harvest display that offers a medley of items. Bringing together small amounts of everything from stone fruit, tomatoes, berries, and corn captures the feel of summer all in one display. Eye-catching displays excite customers and encourage larger purchases.
• Fiber Pint Baskets: A growing trend in produce is the use of fiber pint baskets for berries, stone fruit, specialty peppers, and cherry tomatoes. This reduces customer handling by encouraging customers to buy the whole basket, and also beefs up displays by making an area look fully stocked when you are actually putting out less product.
• Signage: As always, make sure to offer clear signage on all displays and product varieties. Variety names can be written directly on the handle of paper totes if you don’t have room for a separate sign.