Top 10 Shelf and Display Tactics

One of the best ways to save money at the supermarket is to be aware of marketing strategies used to encourage you to buy more and spend more. The following are some of the most common tactics:

#1
The eye-level trick. A recent survey of shampoo products in Northern California supermarkets showed that in almost all of the 20 stores visited, the higher-priced shampoos were at eye level. This is true for other products throughout the supermarket.


#2
End-of-aisle displays. End-of-aisle displays don't mean the products are on sale. Check carefully; sometimes these products are near their freshness expiration dates.


#3
Kids' cereals. The most expensive children's breakfast cereals are often placed at their eye level (not adults'). As you shop the aisle, you don't even realize what's causing your kids to want to put just about every cereal box imaginable in the cart.


#4
Candy next to cereal. Grocery stores often place candy and breakfast cereal on opposite sides of the same aisle (a parent's worst nightmare).


#5
Shelves change constantly. Marketers will often rearrange shelves, making shoppers search for their regular items and discover new products in the old, familiar shelve spaces.


#6
Pre-cut fruit. Produce departments now display mouth-watering fruits that are pre-cut (and more expensive).


#7
Cluttered displays. Massive end-of-aisle displays, large window signs and a cluttered look create an aura that implies the store is filled with bargains.


#8
Prepared meals. Employees lavishly preparing take-home meals right before your eyes creates excitement and sales, especially if a free taste is part of the strategy.


#9
Specialty items grouped together. Items for special occasions (for example, chips, dips and sodas) are often grouped together to increase impulse sales.


#10
Encouragement to stay awhile. Stores sometimes have TVs and newspapers in the cafe seating area. This is a multi-purpose concept to get people used to staying longer in the store. (A rested shopper is a better shopper!)

List as lifted from the Supermarket Guru Newsletter