Merchandising Life Cycle

We set out to create a document that would unify all our stores and unlock their full potential.

  • Plan it.

    Planning is the critical first step in the merchandising process to ensure consistent execution of brand visual direction.

    Stores need comprehensive planning timelines that at a glance let them absorb what next steps need to be taken.

    Investing time to plan leads to efficiency when executing to maximize business results.

  • Map it.

    Mapping is the second component of the Merchandising Life Cycle. Mapping is important to ensure we create the best in-store experience for our customers and adapt the brand direction to our unique spaces.

    Mapping is the process of notating or illustrating your plan. The maps serve as the communication vehicle to your team for seamless execution.

  • Set it.

    This is the first component of the execution phase of the Merchandising Life Cycle. Each month we bring our detailed maps to life and use our allocated hours to set new flow and execute monthly product strategies. 

    Having a clear plan and managing the productivity of our team will allow us to set new flow as efficiently as possible.

    This will ensure you create a compelling shopping experience and protect the needed hours for customer engagement

  • Style It.

    This is the final execution component of the Merchandising Life cycle. Styling of mannequins and visual displays brings our product stories to life and entices the customer to shop, explore, and make a purchase.

    Learning how to use these techniques will best convey the brand pillars of Family, Fun, Fashion, and Value through presentation.

  • Walk it.

    This is the post-product flow walk-through where we assess the execution of the presentation of New Flow. The WALK component is where the ART of visual merchandising comes to life in ensuring seamless execution leading to the best customer experience possible.

    To guide the assessment process, we use Visual Inspection Touch-points to support consistent and objective assessment of execution. 

  • Flex it.

    Flex It is the intentional moving of product focused on the balance of Art + Science of Visual Merchandising, in reaction to the business, inventory or upcoming events - and always rooted in the Store Design and Merchandising strategies.

    Flexing enhances the merchandising presentation while maintaining the integrity of the Shop Vibe. This helps create a consistent store experience regardless of store type, inventory and assortment

When we developed the Merchandise Planning Life Cycle document, our goal was to create an inclusive guide for all store teams and building formats. It’s designed to be equally useful for new and experienced leaders—whether they’re preparing for their first or fiftieth seasonal set.

The document outlines efficient processes for managing product from the moment it arrives through to when it leaves our stores in the hands of satisfied customers.

This comprehensive 53-page guide provides a clear, straightforward roadmap for all store teams to follow.