Visual Merchandising

Visual merchandising is the activity and profession of developing floor plans and three dimensional displays in windows and in stores in order to maximise sales. the purpose of visual merchandising is to attract, engage and motivate the customer towards making a purchase.

PURPOSE

The main purpose of visual merchandising is to make it easier for the customer to locate the desired category and merchandise, make it possible for the customer to coordinate and accessories and to highlight highlight particular product at strategic locations.

BRIEF HISTORY

Years ago it wasn't uncommon for store owners to display their products on tables in front of their store to lure in customers. Store windows where small back then and glass was not a easily available product. This all changed in 1840's when glass became mass produced.

The evolution in store design brought about a new process of shopping. It was no longer a verbal engagement between retailers and customers but now a sensory experience. The first step occurred when small stores began to display their merchandise openly to the public. eventually the deliberate displaying of goods became an important tool for retailers.

(first Selfridges opened March 1909)

The rise of department stores in the 19th century bought more changes in store design and visual displays. The early department stores continued with the idea of displaying merchandise in elaborate and luxury settings.

(Window display in Selfrigdes)