We are experimenting with a new approach for cards not in our everyday range at our Sophie Randall store. With space a premium and a desire to better serve customers we have started a self-managed doubling and tripling of card pockets.
For two weeks we have been testing our approach with 99 pockets. Customer feedback and sales both suggest that in the Sophie store the idea will work well – customers browse for longer than in a newsagency, are prepared to work to find what they want and we have the labour resources to manage the pockets daily to ensure we’re not out of stock. With only two of each design in each pocket, daily checking is essential.
Once we have extended this to our full face card display wall we will cover 243 facings and have capacity for over 700 designs. This will help us through seasons such as Christmas where fixturing for lifestyle cards is lost to the seasonal display.
We don’t plan to test this approach in our newsagencies. The consumer mindset when shopping for a card in a newsagency is very different to what we see in a Sophie store.
Mark
I would have thought Retailer would have told you which cards were selling thus obviating the need to check pockets daily?
David
David, This would require card companies to barcode product to the specific design. Few do. Mark
dont agree look measy and unprosessional.
Mark,
Would you open a Sophie Randall store near one of your Newsagencies??
How would the SR outlet impact card sales in your newsagency?
Jordan,
I have done that at Forest Hill. Nil impact. They attract different customers dues to range, layout and the overall experience. I’d be happy to do it again.
Mark