The modern consumer looks at their grocery store as a place that can serve many needs and wants for them. General merchandise items may not always be at the top of the radar for grocers, but the evidence proves that offering the right types of GM items can shoppers to your store even more loyal.
Valu Merchandisers (VMC) has developed a successful three-tier program that reimagines general merchandise categories, and adds trendy and innovative items. Through a strong core seasonal program and two incremental programs (Major incremental events and monthly endcaps), stores who participate are attracting new customers and growing sales.
A highlight of GM Reimagined is the incremental monthly endcap program. These displays feature non-repetitive, higher-end merchandise that targets women, children and Millennials. Based around topical and trendy designs, the endcaps or stacking table displays source products from new vendors and are curated by an expanded GM team. Catch the eye of shoppers with new items that will entice them to make impulse buys and build additional sales. Each month, VMC emails three to four options for retailers to select, keeping the program fresh and customized to each stores’ audience.
The core seasonal program and major incremental events have also expanded to help retailers compete with not only other grocers, but also home improvement stores and national superstores. This year’s Christmas seasonal selection featured more than 400 new items from all key holiday categories including electronics, toys, home decor, baking, clothing and more. Our recent Spring and Summer seasonal selection featured an additional 20 vendors. It expanded the Fourth of July program along with grills, umbrellas, indoor and outdoor décor and patio furniture.
Remember that consumers will likely continue to make fewer stops in 2021 and if you can capitalize on that, you have the ability to bring in incremental dollars as consumers make more purchases at your store versus making more trips. VMC plans to build on the GM Reimagined success by helping stores to increase incremental and seasonal sales and profits.
If you are interested in the GM Reimagined program, reach out to your local VMC representative who can work with you.
