Facing (retail)

Faced products on a supermarket shelf

Facing is a retail term that refers to the practice of bringing products on a shelf or display to the front edge, with the labels facing forward, to create a neat and organized appearance. This practice is also known as blocking, fronting, or conditioning. Facing is a common task in retail stores and is typically performed by store employees, including stock clerks, merchandisers, and sales associates.

Purpose

The primary purpose of facing is to enhance the visual appeal of the store, making it easier for customers to find and select products. Proper facing can lead to increased sales by ensuring that products are readily visible and accessible. It also helps in maintaining inventory control by making it easier to spot out-of-stock items and replenish them promptly.

Process

Facing involves several steps:

• **Pulling products to the front**: Employees pull products from the back of the shelf to the front edge.
• **Aligning labels**: Ensuring that all product labels are facing forward and are easily readable.
• **Filling gaps**: Filling any gaps on the shelf with additional stock from the back or from storage areas.
• **Cleaning**: Removing any dust, debris, or damaged products to maintain a clean and attractive display.

Benefits

• **Improved customer experience**: A well-faced shelf is more visually appealing and easier to shop from.
• **Increased sales**: Products that are easy to see and reach are more likely to be purchased.
• **Inventory management**: Helps in identifying low stock levels and preventing stockouts.
• **Store aesthetics**: Contributes to the overall cleanliness and organization of the store.

Challenges

• **Time-consuming**: Facing can be a labor-intensive task, especially in large stores with extensive product ranges.
• **Maintenance**: Requires regular attention to maintain the appearance of the shelves throughout the day.
• **Training**: Employees need to be trained on proper facing techniques to ensure consistency and effectiveness.

Related Concepts

• Merchandising
• Planogram
• Stock management
• Retail audit
• Visual merchandising

See Also

• Retail
• Stock clerk
• Sales associate
• Inventory management
• Customer experience