BUILDING THE RIGHT MIX The most successful retail strategies balance assortment with creativity. A safe allocation often looks like this: l Branded merchandise: up to 40 percent of inventory l Apparel and accessories: around 40 percent l Giftables, souvenirs and sundries: the remainder
When merchandising, group branded products together for easy selection and position to the front or near check out, but layer in discovery items nearby.
Many hotels over-index on branded goods. While logo polos, tumblers and baseball caps( always a best-seller) perform well, the real opportunity lies in unexpected extensions. Add playful twists, such as signature cocktails etched on tumblers, or collaborate with local artists for scarves or prints.
“ Empty feels underwhelming. Overstuffed feels overwhelming. The sweet spot is curated abundance.”
MERCHANDISING MATTERS: Abundancy vs. scarcity Retail is visual, and presentation drives sales. A common mistake is overcrowding displays, which creates confusion, or offering single items, which suggests stock is depleted.
The rule of three is a timeless guideline: 1. Use round tables that guests can walk around. 2. Feature no more than three themed product stories. 3. Create depth with risers, props or floral accents.
Intentional scarcity— such as limited-edition items— can drive urgency but should always feel deliberate.
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