Stock Up Shelves

I always wonder, when I go into a store and the shelves are half empty, if they will be there next month. It looks like they are trying to reduce inventory before closing down for good or in advance of a sale. Look at it from a customer's perspective; do you want to but something and if there's a problem the place where you bought it is gone? Or maybe the owners just don't have the capital to fill the store with inventory. either way, it give a poor impression to people who want to shop there.

Keeping shelves stocked give the feeling that you are busy and expecting a lot of customers. Most people like to do business with a successful store or business. If you can't afford to pay for all the inventory you need ask suppliers to disply it on consignment. When item on your shelves get low pull them forward to give the impression of more behind them. When you run out of something, fill that space with another item until it's back in stock. Customers will be more comfortable shopping in a clean and well stocked store.
More short ideas in the monthly Idea-Letter (since 2002), free sample at www.idealetter.com