Whether you’re preparing for a holiday shopping surge or looking for a way to drive sales, consider setting up a case or stock-up sale for your shoppers.
Find a Location
You don’t need a tent or a truck — all you need is an area that is easy to access, has good visibility and can be designated for the length of the sale period. Areas that are currently unused, such as a seating area or classroom, an entry wall or vestibule, part of your produce area or in an underused bulk aisle, pallet drop or a current stack display area, are all are potential case sale areas.
Determine Your Items
In determining your potential case sale items, use the data you have access to: Check your POS data, review SPINS, scan prior/regular special orders, review and research pantry building lists, and explore what items your store carries that have seen recent purchase surges (pasta, broth/stock, canned or bulk beans, rice, cereal). These sources can all help you decide what items to carry.
What deals are out there right now? Do any Co+op Basics items seem particularly appealing or fit this list? Don’t forget to review the Co+op Deals items for the upcoming sale periods — these can be great case deals. When using current Co+op Deals, make sure to make a sign for the stack that displays the case price.
Make It Fun
Create a festive atmosphere — hang string lights, use props and signs to make area stand out and use bright vivid colors for signs. Make the area special, fun and exciting.
Make It Easy
Be sure to make the stacks tall and easy to shop. Dummy up if needed and stack items on top of tables (no one likes to bend down and lift). Use a bench, pallet, shelf or bin; stack cases and bags on top. Vary the color of stacks, place like with like, pasta with sauce. Use big signs with prices that are easy to read from a distance so that shoppers will be sure to notice the product. Cross-merchandise in the area if possible.
One more benefit of a stock-up sale: If you’re offering high-penetration, high-volume items, the sale stock can serve as a simple back-stock area for inventory of items, allowing for restocking on shelf or in slots as needed for those shoppers buying from the regular item location.
Check out the Stock-up Event Tasks and Duties Checklist for more ideas.
