There’s plenty of work to do to get your physical store ready for the Fall season. Changing the signage is only a small part of what needs to happen to create a welcoming environment. The point is to be intentional in developing a comprehensive plan that focuses on visual merchandising, layout optimization, inventory management, and promotions. Keep in mind that customers want to shop in a clean, well-organized store where merchandise is easily located and can be purchased without hassle. Studies indicate cleanliness shows the establishment is operated professionally. Shoppers want to stay longer because they are in comfortable surroundings and feel valued.

• Customers are more likely to notice products when the area is uncluttered and well-lit
• Cleanliness reduces stress, enabling shoppers to focus on enjoying the experience.
• Schedule regular window cleaning and organize entryways to make a good first impression.

Embrace Seasonal Colors
When it comes to a Fall color theme, stick with the tried and true: orange, yellow, brown, and red. Consumers are familiar with these colors and associate them with the autumn season. Use them in decorations and displays throughout the store. Update window displays with clever seasonal themes to invite pedestrians to come inside to shop. Pumpkins, wheelbarrows, scarecrows, mums, bundles of hay, and leaves can be used as inexpensive props for a variety of merchandise. Be sure to use colorful signage to promote deals and special offers.

Highlight Seasonal Products
Creating one or more focal points throughout the store is an interesting way to display seasonal products. The items should be relevant to the season and popular with consumers. Caulk, adhesives, work gloves, smoke alarms, batteries, and decorative hardware are a few items to consider. October is Fire Prevention Month, promoting the use of smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, carbon monoxide detectors, fire blankets, and fire suppressants, as well as emergency alert decals, to prepare customers for emergencies.

Grouping complementary items encourages impulse purchases and increases the total transaction amount. It helps customers visualize how products can be used in combination or reminds them about items they may need to finish a project.

Placing new merchandise near the front of the store and high-traffic areas increases its visibility and encourages customers to take a closer look. Reserve this placement for specialty merchandise, items in limited supply, and quick-turn seasonal products. Be strategic about building project-focused endcaps, such as fall cleanup, lawn preparation, tool and equipment maintenance, home safety, and organization.

Closely Monitor Inventory Levels
The situation with tariffs and imports will impact product availability this Fall. While consumers want to receive greater value for their money, prices are rising, and imports may be in short supply. Many retailers are cautious about bringing in excess inventory and are taking a wait-and-see approach. In prior years, store owners likely used sales data to determine demand. Due to the current economic uncertainty, retailers should adopt a more proactive approach and adjust their product assortments as needed. Get a clear understanding from your current vendor to ensure a steady flow of merchandise. If not, consider other options. Consumers are projected to spend less money for the remainder of the year, becoming more selective about their purchases. Entering a store with empty shelves and low inventory will deter new customers and damage your relationship with existing ones.

Promotions and Events
Celebrate Fall with a kick-off event that is both entertaining and sales-worthy. Invite your best customers and offer special discounts, refreshments, and product demos. Host a harvest event for gardeners, or a grilling demo featuring a local grill master. Consider partnering with your vendors or community organizations to attract more participants and make the event more memorable.

• Offer limited-time, exclusive Fall deals to create a sense of urgency and drive sales.
• Promote seasonal specials on social media platforms every week
• Send e-mails to customers about Fall promotions and special purchases
• Tie-in promotional events to Fall holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving

How you display and promote products in your store can help you win or lose customers. Real customer service begins with a plan of action that focuses on exceeding shoppers’ expectations. Make preparing for the season a team effort between managers and associates to get everyone on board and energized for a profitable selling season ahead.