Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
TITLE OF THE INVENTION
Method and Apparatus for Merchandising Management
RELATED APPLICATION
The present application is related to and claims the benefit under 35 USC
~119(e) of priority
from U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/372,883 filed April 15, 2002,
the disclosure of
which is hereby incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to methods of managing the performance of employees in
a retail stores
and identifying the opportunities for improvement in merchandise management in
order to
facilitate an increase in retail sales.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Retailing is an industry in which thousands of small tasks must be performed
in timely manner.
The industry struggles with implementing these tasks such as planogramming
products and re-
stocking products, maintaining product pricing, implementing marketing
programs. Any
deficiencies in the execution of these tasks will cause a retailer to lose
potential sales of their
customers who patronize their store. Part of the problem is that most of
retailers' workforce is
made up of high turnover unskilled staffers earning little more than minimum
wage. The other
part of the problem is that retailers have not developed an effective method
of managing the
performance of these employees. Current methods of delegation and follow-up
are ineffective.
As well, performance measurement is made more difficult due to the large
number of tasks that
the retailers are required to be performed on a regular and timely basis, such
as stocking
shelves, changing prices efc.
In conventional retailing, the most common method of delegation and follow-up
currently used is
a store walk-around. The store manager walks around the store, with pen and
paper, viewing
the retail displays, signage, stock levels, and general appearance and
cleanliness of the store.
The store manager generates a task to be completed based upon his/her
observations. The
problem with this method is it relies on the management person's ability to
notice deficiencies
and produce this "things to do list" and is therefore prone to inconsistent
performance by the
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
management person. This method is also undesirable because it is a reactionary
approach
rather then a proactive approach to merchandising management and managing
performance. A
more effective methods of delegation and follow-up which is sometime used,
would involve
scheduling routine tasks, such as fill the shelves, place P.O.P. ("Point of
Purchase") material or
signage for example and then use this schedule as a checklist to follow-up on
performance.
Some of the problems with this method of delegation and follow-up is that it
is time
consumptive, burdensome and therefore expensive to undertake consistently and
comprehensively: the larger the retail facility, the larger the number of task
to be performed, and
the more difficult it is to keep up with the merchandising tasks and in
tracking performance.
Another important element of retail management that is currently lacking in
today's retail
environment is the ability to measure performance of such a large number of
tasks.
Performance measurement allows the merchandise/store managers to determine if
current
efforts are causing a progression or digression in workforce performance. The
merchandise or
store manager can then take better control of the situation with this informed
to make the
appropriate changes.
There is therefore a need in the retail industry for an effective method of
merchandising
management and managing and measuring pertormance.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates in a first aspect to a method for merchandise
management for a plurality
of merchandise and supporting marketing material, comprising the steps of:
~ selecting a plurality of primary merchandising tasks;
~ paraphrasing each of the plurality of primary merchandising tasks for at
least one of the
plurality of merchandise into at least one sub merchandising task, forming a
set of sub
merchandising tasks;
~ combining the set of sub merchandising tasks into a standards manual; and
~ conducting a check-and-assessment of the plurality of merchandise using the
set of sub
merchandising tasks.
In a first variation to the invention, the plurality of primary merchandising
tasks comprises
Product Placement I Planogramming, Product Pricing, Product Availability I
Service Levels,
Product Promotion / P.O.P. Implementation, and Product Image / Freshness.
2
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
In a second variation, the invention further includes the step of using
results from the check-
and-assessment for evaluating performance of at least one person responsible
for display of
said merchandise.
The evaluating performance of the at least one person responsible for display
of said
merchandise may comprise the user performing sub merchandising tasks and
determining the
percentage of affirmative replies.
In a third variation, the invention further includes the step of using results
from the check-and-
assessment for generating a list of further things to do for merchandise
management.
In a fourth variation, the invention further includes the step of using
results from the check-and-
assessment for generating a list of further things to do to complete
merchandise management.
In a fifth variation, the invention further includes the step of using results
from the check-and-
assessment for printing P.O.P. or shelf price tags identified to be missing.
In a sixth variation, the invention further includes the step of using results
from the check-and-
assessment for generating a printed or electronic inventory order.
In a seventh variation, the invention further includes a set of sub
merchandising tasks involving
the use of at least one planogram.
In an eighth variation, the check-and-assessment of the plurality of
merchandise comprises the
steps of: performing at least one sub merchandising task of the set of sub
merchandising tasks;
and Recording the result of the at least one sub merchandising task.
In a ninth variation, the step of combining the set of sub merchandising tasks
into a standards
manual comprises storing the sub merchandising tasks in a storage of a
computer, wherein the
computer comprises a processor, memory, further storage, and communication
facilities; and
the step of conducting a check-and-assessment of the plurality of merchandise
using the sub
merchandising tasks comprises using a speaker element in electronic
communication with the
computer for providing a first voice information to the user from the computer
and a microphone
element in electronic communication with the computer for receiving a second
voice information
from the user and transmitting said second voice information in electronic
form to the computer.
In accordance to a second aspect, this invention relates to a voice
interactive system for
assisting a user to manage merchandise for a plurality of merchandise and
supporting
marketing material, comprising:
~ A computer, comprising a processor, memory, storage, and communication
facilities;
3
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
~ A speaker element in electronic communication with the computer for
providing a first voice
information to the user from the computer;
~ A microphone element in electronic communication with the computer for
receiving a second
voice information from the user and transmitting said second voice information
in electronic
form to the computer;
~ A file or database containing a plurality of sub merchandising tasks; and
~ Software stored at the computer for performing the steps assisting the user
to conduct a
check-and-assessment, the steps comprising:
~ Retrieving a sub merchandising task from the file or database;
~ Communicating the sub merchandising task to the user using the speaker
element;
~ Receiving a response to the sub merchandising task from the user using the
microphone
element; and
~ Processing said response.
In a first variation to the system, the plurality of sub merchandising tasks
are paraphrases of a
plurality of primary merchandising tasks for the plurality of merchandise,
including Product
Placement / Planogramming, Product Pricing, Product Availability / Service
Levels, Product
Promotion / P.O.P. Implementation, and Product image / Freshness.
In a second variation, the check-and-assessment is used for evaluating
performance of at least
one person responsible for display of said plurality of merchandise.
Evaluating performance of the at least one person responsible for display of
said merchandise
may comprise the user performing sub merchandising tasks and determining the
percentage of
affirmative replies.
In a second variation, the invention further comprises the step of using
results from the check-
and-assessment for generating a list of further things to do for merchandise
management.
In a third variation, the invention further comprises the step of using
results from the check-and-
assessment for generating a list of further things to do to complete
merchandise management.
In a fourth variation, the invention further comprises the step of using
results from the check-
and-assessment for printing P.O.P. or shelf price tags identified to be
missing.
In a fifth variation, the invention further comprises the step of using
results from the check-and-
assessment for generating a printed or electronic inventory order.
4
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
In a sixth variation, the invention further comprises an electronic display
for presenting the
content of at least one planogram to the user.
In a seventh variation, the check-and-assessment of the plurality of
merchandise comprises the
steps of:
~ Performing at least one sub merchandising task of the set of sub
merchandising tasks; and
~ Recording the result of the at least one sub merchandising task.
In an eighth variation, a headset comprises the speaker element and the
headphone element
for allowing the check-and-assessment to be conducted by the user hands-free.
In a ninth variation, the software comprises a speech recognition component
for the step of
receiving the response to the sub merchandising task from the user.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Fig. 1 illustrates performance summary.
Fig. 2 shows sections from a sample Standards Manual.
Fig. 3 shows sections from a sample Standards Manual.
Fig. 4 shows sections from a sample Standards Manual.
Fig. 5 shows sections from a sample Standards Manual.
Fig. 6 shows the opening screen.
Fig. 7 shows the main screen.
Fig. 8 shows the screen for the merchandise management menu.
Fig. 9 is a diagrammatic representation of the process flow.
Fig. 10 shows a flow chart for one implementation of the voice interactive
system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
A preferred embodiment of the present invention uses a standards manual as a
method of
communicating expectations in performing standards and incorporating a method
of checking,
assessing and measuring performance of these standards.
5
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Current use of Standards Manual by the majority of retailers has been
ineffective because they
do not clearly set out expectations. Nor are current use of Standards Manuals
developed in a
manner that would permits performance of the standards to be measured.
Paraphrasing
An important aspect of the Standards Manual of the present invention is that
all of a retailer's
standards as such relate to the execution of Primary Merchandising Tasks/PMT's
(discussed
below) are paraphrased as smaller, more specific Sub-Merchandising
Tasks/SMT's. Compared
to the prior art, the present invention's "paraphasing of SMT's" communicates
performance
expectations in a clearer, more concise manner. Additionally, converting
retailing standard into
smaller more specific tasks that can then be assessed as being performed "Yes"
or not
performed "NO", enables the retailer to measure performance objectively.
Existing Standards
Manuals are designed for the most part as "resource tools" used to document
and communicate
factual information and not designed to clearly communicate expectation,
making performance
assessments so subjective to interpretation that they are not reliable, often
causing more harm
than good to workplace performance.
Another important aspect of the Standards Manual of the present invention is
the identification
of the five (5) Primary Merchandising Tasks (PMT) identified as the following:
1 ) Product Placement / Planograming
2) Product Pricing
3) Product Availability / Service Levels
4) Product Promotion / P.O.P. Implementation
5) Product Image / Freshness
These five (5) primary merchandising tasks (PMT) identify the merchandising
tasks that cause
the majority of a retailer's sales to be lost due to poor execution of
standards. The present
invention sets out to identify these five (5) primary merchandising tasks as a
parameter for
effective performance management in a retail environment. A retailer may still
wish to add other
smaller and less significant factors to this list. Prirnary merchandising
tasks (PMT) are
comprised of smaller more numerous and more specific sub merchandising tasks
(SMT). For
example the re-stocking of KitKatT"~ chocolate bars is a (SMT) of the (PMT)
namely Product
Availability/Service Levels. It is common for a store to carry as many as
10,000 different
products, this store would be said to have 10,000 (SMT's) that make up it's
Primary
6
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Merchandising task (PMT) of Product Availability/Service Levels. This
illustrates the challenge
retailers face and the potential for loss sales due 1:o poor performance of
just this one single
P MT.
It's important to note that paraphrasing relates to these sub merchandising
tasks. And because
of the large number of products carried, the Standards Manual paraphrases some
SMT's in a
PMT group, and still clearly communicates the standards and expectation
An example of a Product Placement / Planograming paraphrased is as follows:
"Ensure that all
products on the planogram are properly merchandised". A copy of the planogram
would be
contained in the manual along with the paraphrase. If there are 100 different
products on the
planogram and a check-and-assess identifies that: only 85 of the 100 items
were properly
planogrammed, an 85% measurement would be determined for Product Placement
Planograming. In this instance, all 100 Product Placement / Planograming SMT's
are grouped
together and linked to the planogram listing to be founding the Standards
Manual.
A generic example of such an SMT would be: "Correctly merchandise [insert
specific product,
type of product or category of product] to planogram." This question type is
applicable for
virtually all vendible products.
An example of a Product Pricing paraphrased is as follows: "Ensure that all
products on the
planogram are properly merchandised". A copy of the retailer's price list
would be contained in
the manual along with this paraphrase. If there ara 100 different products on
the price list and a
check-and-assess identifies that only 95 of the 100 items were properly
priced, a 95%
measurement would be determined for Product Pricing. In this instance, all 100
Product Pricing
(SMT) are grouped together and linked to the planogram listing to be founding
the Standards
Manual.
A generic variation of this example question would be "Establish that price of
[insert specific
product, type of product or category of product] ai: or below maximum pricing
[insert pricing
scheme]."
An example of a Product Availability / Service Levels paraphrased is as
follows: "Ensure that
stock levels on all products found on the planogram are properly
merchandised". A copy of the
planogram or a listing of the products on the planogram would be contained in
the manual along
with this paraphrase. If there are 100 different products on the planogram or
list and a check-
and-assess identifies that only 60 of the 100 items were on the shelves, a 60%
measurement
would be determined for Product Availability / Service Levels. In this
instance, all 100 Product
7
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Availability / Service Levels (SMT) are grouped together and linked to the
planogram listing to
be founding the Standards Manual.
A generic variation of this "Maintain an in-stock position of all [insert
specific product, type of
product or category of product] on the planogram.°'
An example of a Product Promotion / P.O.P. implementation paraphrased is as
follows: "Ensure
that all products on the promotional signage are properly displayed". If there
are 100 different
promotional signs to be properly displayed and a check-and-assess identifies
that only 95 of the
100 items were properly displayed, a 95% measurement would be determined for
Product
Promotion / Planograming. In this instance, all 100 Product Promotion / P.O.P.
SMT are
grouped together.
A generic example of this is: "Ensure properly display of [insert specific
signage to be found, i.e.
shelf talkers, counter promotional sign]."
An example of a Product / Store Image paraphrased is as follows: "Ensure that
none of the
products on the shelf are 'expired' or damaged". If there are 100 different
products where a
check-and-assess identified that 5 of the 100 items were expired or damaged, a
95%
measurement would be determined for Product Image / Freshness. In this
instance, all 100
Product / Store Image SMT's are grouped together.
"Maintain the image of [insert specific product, type of product or category
of product] freshness
by checking expiration dates and removing outdated products from shelf' and
"Keep [insert
specific product, type of product or category of product] clean and remove any
soiled or opened
product from the shelf' are further examples of paraphrasing SMT's for Product
/ Store Image.
An aspect of the Standards Manual of the present invention is Performance
Summary used to
quantify as a percentage. 100% representing perfect performance. An important
aspect of the
Summary reporting of performance measurement is that it is done in a way that
mirrors the
standards manual of the present invention. This facilitates easily understood
dialog that would
follow between management and store personnel.
Figure 1 is a sample Performance Summary indicating the store's overall
performance in the
five (5) Primary merchandising tasks (PMT's). The merchandise or store manager
might
delegate each Primary merchandising task (PMT) to a different person or team
of people for the
5 tasks and will be able to use this summary to communicate performance
results to the
individual stakeholders.
8
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
The elements in Figures 2 to 5 jointly constitute an example of a Performance
Summary
indicating the performance broken down by section department or product
category and then
into the five (5) Primary merchandising tasks (PMT's). The merchandise or
store manager might
delegate the entire section, department or product category to an employee
Team of
employee's and will be able to use this summary to communicate performance
results to the
individual stakeholders.
Strategically, the Performance Summary identifies where the opportunities for
improvement
exists. In the case of the Figure 1 for overall store Performance Summary,
Service t_evels is
shown as a clear area where more resources should be placed with potential
opportunity for
improving performance. Product Pricing and P.O.P. Implementation on the other
hand indicate
proper performance level and may possible be where less resources may be
required without
effecting performance levels.
In either of these two reporting examples (Figures 1, and Figures 2 to 5),
week-by-week results
can be tracked to show progression or digression in performance, further
aiding the dialog
between management and store personnel.
By way of an operative example, the principles identified above have been
incorporated into a
Standards Manual entitled Best Practice Retailing Standards in Schedule 1. By
following the
method embodied in the manual and working through a check and assessment of in-
store
corresponding sections, a manager or designated employee can identify and
determine whether
any tasks have been completed in order to conform the retailing area to the
established retailing
standards. A list of items to be done, in order to bring the retail area into
compliance with the
standards set out in the manual, can be determinE:d with reference to the
particular items where
performance was determined to be less that 100°io (or an acceptable
level), based on the
completion of the page by page analysis of the manual while reviewing the
retail area to which
the manual relates.
The employee or Team of employees responsible for the retail area will obtain
a quantified,
objective indicator of their level of performance arid compliance relative to
a perfect level
established by the retailing standards manual. This information on performance
and compliance
can be tracked over time to determine which areas and/or employees
consistently under-
perform and require targeted efforts to improve performance/compliance with
standards. The
performance of employees charged with responsibilities for the tasks in a
given retail area can
be judged against the standards provided in the manual.
9
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Another embodiment relates to a system using bi-directional voice
communication which allows
the merchandising system to be automated and operated by voice (abbreviated in
this
document as "Voice Computing" or the "System"). Each Sub merchandising task is
posed as a
question that is transmitted from a base computer to a remote unit including a
headphone/microphone worn by the assessor. For example, the base computer
transmits the
following question: "Is the Kit Kat promotional sign properly displayed ?".
The assessor
responds to the questions with voice inputs relative to the observed
performance of the
standard: a "Yes" voice input if the task was properly completed; a "No" voice
input if the task
was not properly completed. The inputted voice response from the assessor is
then transmitted
back to the base computer, which records, correlates and tabulates the
responses into a
performance summary.
Voice Computing
The System (Voice Computing) is a system with hardware and software components
for
automating the check-and-assessment process associated with a Standards Manual
performed
by a user. The means of carrying out the process, typically a writing
instrument such as a pen
and a printed copy of the manual, is replaced by electronic devices as part of
a multimedia
system. A computer (the "Computer"), having electronic memory elements for
storing the
contents of the Standards Manual (a file or database including an electronic
version of the
associated voice track), runs software to facilitate the check-and-assessment
process. The
Computer may be part of a telecommunication network of such computers and
other network
devices, such as a local area network (LAN), an intranet, extranet, or the
Internet.
The remote unit of the system corresponding to the assessor/user has a number
of input-output
elements. These include a visual display such as a LCD or CRT display and a
voice input-
output device, such as a headphone/microphone headset (more generically
microphone and
speaker). An electronic device for entering characters is also included, such
as a manual
pointing device such as a mouse or trackball (spec;ially coupled with the
display as in the case
of PDA's), or a keyboard. These are linked electronically either directly with
the display, or via
the Computer. A printed copy of the Standards Manual may be included as the
means by which
information such as the planogram (instead of a CRT or LCD display screen) is
displayed.
There may be one component of the remote unit to act as an intermediary
between the
Computer and the i/o devices in collecting and distributing signals in both
directions. In a further
variation, there may be further intermediary devices, such as routers and
switches between the
Computer and the remote unit (networking on a peer-to-peer or client-server
basis).
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Alternatively, the i/o devices are connected to the Computer with the related
signals (in
communication channels) associated with the particular user. The link between
the Computer
and the remote unit may be by cable or wireless telecommunication means.
In order to facilitate the check-and-assessment process, a voice recognition
component is part
of the software run by the Computer. One advantage of using Voice Computing is
its "hands-
free" characteristic which allows the assessor to make small correcting
adjustment with his/her
hands, thus further aiding the merchandising of products in the stores and
increasing
merchandising efficiency.
Each task is posed as a question that is transmitted from the Computer to the
remote unit (the
headphone/microphone worn by the assessor). For example, the Computer
transmits the
following question either visually as displayed on the screen or verbally by
the headphone: "Is
the KitKatT"~ promotional sign properly displayed ?". A graphic of a correct
display may also be
displayed on screen or its location (page number) recited in an accompanying
Standards
Manual. The assessor then responds orally to the questions relative to the
observed
performance of the standard: a "Yes" voice input if the task was properly
completed; a "No"
voice input if the task was not properly completed. The inputted voice
response from the
assessor is then transmitted back to the base computer, which captures,
recognizes, records,
correlates and tabulates the responses (ultimately into a performance
summary). There are a
large number of technologies available for speech recognition and synthesis.
The responses are
preferably, but not exclusively, of the Yes-No binary type. For example, a
number may also be
the response in relative to a question about the inventory quantity of a
certain product placed on
a shelf._Pre-determined minimum inventory levels enables the computer to sort
"Yes" inputs
from responses indicating inventory levels at or above the minimum.
Conversely, "No" inputs
would come from responses indicating inventory levels below the minimum. The
purpose of
using the inventory quantity rather then a simple "Ves/No" is to allow the
system to operate as a
perpetual inventory order device. To be discussed in more detail later in
embodiment that
explains how the system can further aid the merchandising.
Figures 6 to 8 illustrate one possible initial series of screen displayed to a
user of the System.
As shown in Figure 6, the user is first required to enter his user identifier
and password in the
corresponding text boxes. Once selecting and clicking on the box indicated as
"Enter", the user
is permitted to initiate a new session.
Each session commences with a selection of the task areas to be performed as
part of the
check-and-assessment. Figure 7 illustrates one possible layout for this menu
screen, permitting
11
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
the user to select the specific task areas and the order in which the areas
are to be performed.
The actual check-and-assessment process involving questions is then carried
out. The user has
at all times the option of returning to this menu.
Once the check-and-assessment has been completed (or a part thereof), the user
(with properly
authorization) can generate a report (including hardcopies) by indicating to
the System to initiate
and show the Merchandising Management Application screen (sample shown in
Figure 8). At
this point, a number of reports can be generated. -The reports in Figure 8 are
discussed in
further detail below in relation to Figure 9.
This invention optionally includes software modules for entering questions
into a particular
System for a particular check-and-assessment session. For example, a software
component
may allow a manager or merchandising specialist to produce an electronic
Standards Manual
(including possible interface software with other merchandising systems, such
as an inventory
database or standalone system), including questians under each of the
categories for each
product and any graphic display. In addition to a session linked to the
planograms, sessions can
be linked to coincide with a list of pre-set initiative, a list of a specific
group of products to be
checked (i.e. only those products on promotion to be checked) as well, the
Standards Manual
can then be used as the basis for the check-and-assess session.
The system may also run a component using the Standards Manual as a basis as a
training
session tool, which requires the trainee to respond with affirmation that they
understand what
they read in the standards manual and what they observe. The benefit of
linking the training with
the check and assess is that there is even greater consistency in
expectations. This would have
tutorial capabilities that would allow the trainee to call up "Help" for more
clarification of the
standard and expectation.
Figure 10 shows the process flow of a preferred embodiment. Square boxes
indicate input and
output means; oval boxes show functions; parallel horizontal entities denote
one or more files or
databases (storage of information); and circular entities with inset numerical
reference and
accompanying arrow refer to or indicate the presence of a separate section of
the overall flow
chart.
Sequencing and Combining Questions
One important advantage of using Voice Computing is that sequentially asked
questions of a
normal nature can be posed in combinations for reducing redundancies and
taking advantage of
heuristics, making this significantly more time effecaive than other methods.
Two steps are
12
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
involved here. Firstly, the normal set of questions for a Standards Manual is
produced; then
analysis follows of the questions for sequencing and combining purposes and
generating the
hierarchical order in which the reduced set questions should be posed (as for
example in a
decision tree or flow chart) is carried out. These si:eps are typically
performed by the manager or
a merchandizing specialist and then entered into the System for a particular
session of check-
and-assessment.
An example sequencing and combining questions is as follows: The base computer
poses a
question about the inventory level of a product in the order that product is
planogrammed to
appear on the shelves, if read from left to right. If the assessor answers
with a "NO" voice input
response, the base computer records the "No" voice input responses as an
indicator that the
product in question was not the product in that place on the planogram. If the
assessor answers
with a inventory quantity example "24" voice input response, the base computer
records a
response for 2 sequentially combined questions. The base computer records a
yes to the
product being in the sequentially correct place on the planogram. At the same
time, the base
computer records either a "Yes or Na" for Product availability, depending on
the pre-determined
minimum/ critical inventory level set for that product
In addition to sequencing questions, the answer to a single combination
question can form
indicators of the validity of a number of related propositions . For example,
the base computer
might ask the assessor "What is the inventory of KitKatT"~ chocolate bars and
are they
promotionally priced at 99 cents ?" If the assessor responds with a number,
e.g. 24, the base
computer records not only that a quantity of 24 is i:he inventory amount
indicating that KitKatT"~
is available, but also that it indicates the following: The system user would
be instructed or
trained (possibly under a training component of the System) to answer in a
hierarchy simply as
follows: If all responses are positive the response is a quantity response.
The computer will
accept "yes" for the other 4 propositions. If all responses are ""No" the
order of utterances are
(1 ) "wrong" for wrong price; (2) "no" for product is not found in that place
on shelf; (3)" damaged"
for damaged product; (4) "missing" for missing P.O.P. (material etc.); and (5)
a "quantity" for
inventory/service level, referring to the actual numerical quantity. As far as
the invention is
concerned, "wrong" is actually a "no"-type answer. Likewise, If an assessor
checks the quantity
and it is below the minimum/critical level established, then the answer is
"no" to the implied
question/instruction "Maintain an in-stock position on that product".
Based on the assessor's "quantity" response of 24 to the above mentioned
question, the base
computer would record that
13
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
~ KitKatT"" is properly planogrammed;
~ KitKatT"" is properly priced at 99 cents;
~ the KitKatT"' product has not past its expiry date nor has it been damaged;
and
~ the KitKatT"' product has a promotional sign properly displayed. Properly
display only
relates to P.O.P.
If the assessor response with a "No" to the above question, the base computer
records the "No"
input response that KitKatT"" is not properly planogrammed. The base responds
then follows
with the follow-up question, "Is Kit KatT"" somewhere else on the shelf, if so
what is the inventory
of KitKatT"" ?" If the assessor responds with a number, e.g. 12, the base
response records not
only 12 as the inventory figure indicating that KitK;atT"" is available, it
also indicates to the base
computer:
~ KitKatT"" is properly priced at 99 cents;
~ KitKatT"~ product was not expired or damaged; and
~ the KitKatT"~ product has a promotional sign properly displayed.
If the assessor responds with "Wrong" to the original question. "What is the
inventory of KitKatT~'
chocolate bars and are they promotionally priced at 99 cents ?", the base
computer records the
"Wrong" input response that KitKatT"" is not properly priced at 99 cent. The
base computer asks
the follow-up question "what is the inventory of KitKatT"" ?" If the assessor
responds with a
number, e.g. 12, the base computer records 12 as the inventory figure
indicating that KitKatT"" is
available, and the response indicates to the base computer that the KitKatT"~
product was not
expired or damaged. The assessor will only respond with the number of vendible
products,
being trained to only include saleable items in inventory amount. Therefore if
there is a quantity
of 24 and one is damaged the response to the question would be "23". It also
indicates to the
base computer a "yes" response that the KitKatT"~ product has a promotional
sign properly
displayed. It would only count as a "Yes or no" response if a tag line on the
original questions
voice prompt. If no tag line is uttered by the computer, the computer and the
assessor ignores
that step and there is no effect on the % for P.O.F'.
If the assessor responds "Damaged", the base computer records the "Damaged"
input response
that KitKatT"~ is expired or damaged. If one or more are damaged the response
is "Damaged"
because it effects the freshness image of that product and others. The user
will be trained on
what is damaged, i.e. torn or faded labels, have empty or opened packages and
soiled
14
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
basically. The base computer asks the follow-up question "what is the
inventory of KitKatT"~ ~°
(referring to the undamaged portion of goods). If the assessor responds with a
number, e.g. 12,
the base response records not only 12 as the inventory figure indicating that
KitKatT"" is
available, it also indicates a "yes"-input response that KitKatT"~ is properly
priced at 99 cents It
indicates to the base computer a "yes"-input response that the KitKatT""
product has a
promotional sign properly displayed.
If the assessor response with "Missing", the base computer records the
"Missing" input
response that the KitKatT"~ promotional sign is not properly displayed. The
base computer asks
the follow-up question "What is the inventory of KitKatT"~ ?" If the assessor
responds with a
number, e.g. 12, the base computer records not only 12 as the inventory figure
indicating that
KitKatT"" is available, it also indicates to the base computer a "Yes" input
response that KitKatT""
is properly priced at 99 cents. It indicates to the base computer a "yes"
input response that the
KitKatT"~ product was not expired or damage.
When a product is on promotion, the starting question for that product will be
something like
"What is the inventory of KitKatT"~, is there a shelf talker (P.O.P.) and is
the product priced at
99cents ?" The expected responses are varied accordingly.
This aspect of the present invention enables the assessor to check-and-assess
the five (5)
Primary merchandising tasks (PMT's) all at once, in a very time effective
manner. This aspect is
not limited to these five (factors), an unlimited number of factors can be
checked with
appropriate modifications which would be clear to the person skilled in the
art.
A preferred embodiment of the present invention uses the System including the
core check-and-
assess methodology to perform computerized functions that further aid the
execution of
merchandising tasks in addition to producing a Performance Summary.
The base computer uses the negative input responses captured during the
performance check-
and-assess session i.e. all of the "Missing", "Damaged", "Wrong", "No" and
"Quantity" that are
below minimums / critical levels as deficiencies. These no-type or deficient
responses
collectively summarize the store's opportunities for improvement and
requirements for timely
corrective action.
A chart of the possible process flow is indicated in Figure 9. At step 910, a
Standards Manual is
created and obtained by a store manager, which sets the standards /
expectations and
paraphrase in question with preferably Yes/No type answers. Also may be set at
step 910 are
parameters for a Performance Audit which may be invoked later (as step 930).
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
The next step is the check-and-assess session during step 920 using Voice
Computing or done
manually.
As referred to earlier in relation to Figure 8, the System, incorporating the
check-and-assess
method, can be used as an aid in merchandising management to produces various
reports. This
would include a printed version of a "Things to do list" to be utilized as a
delegation tool (step
940). All negative responses can be summarized in a "Things to do list" and
printed in a "Things
to Do" report format after a check-and-assess session has been completed
(during step 920).
Every product on the planogram can be coded in the programming of the computer
with a
specific employee or department identified. This allows for printing of
separate "Things to Do"
reports for each of the individual stakeholders. This results in greater time
and cost
effectiveness.
Another way this system can be used as an aid in merchandising management is
to reproduce
printed P.O.P. or shelf price tags at the base computer printer (step 950).
Responses that have
identified missing P.O.P. or the wrong price during the check-and-assess
session (step 920)
can be summarized and printed after a check-and-assess session has been
completed. The
printed P.O.P. and/or shelf price tags can be immediately delegated to the
appropriate
employee so that corrective action may then take place. Every product on the
planogram can be
coded with a specific employee or department identified so that separate
batches of P.O.P. or
shelf price tags can be run for each individual stakeholders.
A further way the System can be used in merchandising management is to produce
(at step
960) a printed or electronic inventory order that can be sent to the supplier
immediately
following a check-and-assess session (step 920). All inventory response may be
captured on a
"Stock card styled " spreadsheet capable of keeping a perpetual inventory and
generate a
product order. Items with inventory levels inputted below minimum / critical
levels trigger an
output response printed to the appropriate suppliers pre-formatted order form.
Every product on
the planogram is coded in the programming of the computer with a suppliers
code to identify the
source for replenishment.
In a variation, such orders are sent electronically to a supplier using a
Business to Business
system, such as that implemented using the Internet or any other means of
telecommunication.
The retailer may choose to run a check-and-assess session for any one of the
purpose above or
other customized reports.
16
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
The use of the voice-based system, including the check-and-assess method of
inventory levels
of products and producing a printed or electronic inventory order, is a method
embodied in the
present invention (as indicated above for step 960 of Figure 9). Voice
Computing in this manner
can also be used by suppliers acting on their own behalf during a sales call
to the retailer's store
or by any organizations in any other industries that require replenishment of
inventories or
supplies. The system is viable and universal in most industries where
workplace performance,
price audit, supplies and inventories etc. are a factor. Voice Computing,
combined with a check-
and-assess of inventory for the purpose of reordering can take the form of any
inventory or
supply listing, in the same way as a planogram listing. The method creates
much greater time
and cost effectiveness then any prior arts methods found in retailing today.
It will be appreciated that the above description relates to the preferred
embodiments by way of
example only. Many variations on the apparatus for delivering the invention
will be clear to
those knowledgeable in the field, and such variations are within the scope of
the invention as
described and claimed, whether or not expressly described.
Ali patents, patent applications, and publications referred to in this paper
are incorporated by
reference in their entirety.
17
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
SCHEDULE1
Best Practice Retailin Standards __ _Tobacco Cate or
Standard _ On Standard_Off Standard_ Assessment Value
Image
One (1 ) point value is
1.) Keep Tobacco Picture of full Picture of half given for keeping
Supertrays full. Supertrays empty i Supertrays full.
Sunertrav
2.) Brands packaging Picture of Picture of One (1 ) point value is
displayed so that packages packages not given for
pack front faces farina customer farina merchandising all
customer. tobacco product
facin the customer
3.) Use coloured Picture of Back Picture of One (1 ) point value is
brand strips given for using
supplied by the Wall with Strips Backwall Without manufactures
cigarette strips. i coloured strips on all
company's . tobacco shelves
r _ _ __._ --_- _
I~ Image Scoring ' 3 out of 3 = 100
2outof3= 66.6%
_- __ 1 out of 3 = 33.3
!!~Tobacco Pricing
One (1 ) point value is
' 1.) 20 packs at or ~3 . ~ given for pricing 20
below maximum t packs at or below
pricing Jan 15, 01 I ' maximum pricing.
established by __
price survey.
i
2.) 25 packs at or i ', One (1 ) point value is
below maximum I ~3 , given for pricing 25
pricing ~ ' ', packs at or below
established by Jan 15, 01 ', maximum pricing.
price survey. -
3.) Carton packs at or One (1 ) point value is
below maximum ' ~27 , given for pricing
pricing ' Carton packs at or
established by Jan 15, 01 below maximum III,
price survey. - pricing. I
Price Strategy Scoring 3 out of 3 = 100
2outof3= 66.6%
1 out of 3 = 33.3 % ,
18
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Standard _ On Off Assessment
Standard _ Standard Value _
P.O.P. Implementation
Picture of One (1 ) point
price value is
1.) Properly I.D properly given for displaying
display
CTP authorized displayed CTP authorized
on
interior price backwall. interior cigarette
price
identification signs.
sign
on backwall.
I
2.) Properly display Picture of One (1 ) point value is
CTP authorized exterior sign on given for displaying
exterior price pole. CTP authorized
identification sign ~ exterior cigarette price
on outside pole. j signs.
3.) Properly display One (1 ) point value is
approved age given for using
restriction signs approved age
i on beside restriction sign beside
I backwall. backwall.
P.O.P. Implementation 3 out of 3 = 100
Scoring 2 out of 3 = 66.6
1 out of 3 = 33.3
Planogram
Implementation 11 Ft
Planogram ~ Planogram
1.) Correctly ~ One (1 ) point value for
merCltandise ITL__ ITL RBH ITL ITL RBH every shelf properly
I tobacco shelves to ITL ITL RBH I_TL _- _ITL_ RBH Set t0 planogram.
I planogram. ITL ITL_ RBH_ IT_L ITL_ RBH Total Of tW2lVe (12)
I ITL ITL RBH RJR RJR RJR points are assessed
_ for tobacco
i - lano ram.
2.) Properly display One (1 ) point value for
the ITL and RBH Picture of ITL Picture of every tobacco counter
counter display in ~ and RBH counter displays display properly in
a visible area of l counter display not to standard. ~ position. Total of two
the pay point I and proper (2) points are
counter. i location. assessed for tobacco
i - counter displays.
i I __ I _
i Planogram Scoring ~ 14 out of 14 = 100%
19
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Standard _" ", On Standard i - Off Standard ~ Assessment Value
Service Levet
r
i
1.) Carry the Top 75
SKU's of tobacco See top 75 list One (1 ) point value for
products. And attached ir~astock.p Fe eK h'en
maintain the Top _ 4 packs of any Top 30
30 SKU's at all SKU is considered out
time. or about to be out of
' stock.
' Service Level Scoring 30 out of 30 = 100%
.-~ ~.- __- - ~___ _ _ _._
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Best Practice Retailin Standards - _ ___ Gum & Mint Cate or
Standard On Standard Off Standard Assessment Value
Image
1.) Maintain freshness One (1) point value for
of product by Show picture of each of the 73 SKU's
checking date code on so long as the
expiration dates on product packages for each
products regularly. SKU are not expired,
Remove outdated soiled, or opened
product from the
shelf.
2.) Maintain the Gum Show a box of Show a box of
& Mint display by Hall's SKU that ~ Hall's SKU
always keeping is full almost empty
the product ~' with one of the
packaging clean broken open
and unopened
jj~Image Scoring ~ 73 out of 73 =100%
' _ i _ _
j Pricing Strategy
', ~ t One (1 ) point value is
I 1.) Price regular gum . given for pricing
at or below Regular gum at or
maximum pricing Jan 15,01 below maximum
established by price pricing.
survey. '
1
i
2.) Price premium gum One (1 ) point value is
at or below ' ~ given for pricing
maximum pricing ~ ~ ', i Premium gum at or
established by price Jan 15, 01 ' I below maximum
survey. I pricing.
i
_ ___ __- _--
3.) Price SuperPak ~ ~ One (1 ) point value is
gum at or below i ~ . ' given for pricing
maximum pricing ', Superpak gum at or
established by price Jan 15, 01 ! below maximum
survey. pricing.
Pricing Strategy Scoring ' 3 out of 3 = 100
2outof3= 66.6
_. -- ~. 1 out of 3 = 33.3 % I
21
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Standard _ On Standard _ Off Standard______ Assessment Value
P.O.P. Implementation
Picture of Price One (1 ) point value is
1.) Properly Display Ip sign and given for properly
price identification holder using the Gum & Mint
signs. Price Id. sign and
holder.
2.) Properly display Picture of a ~ One (1 ) point value is
current monthly Gum self given for properly
promotional shelf dangler using the current Gum
danglers. & Mint promotional
shelf dangler.
___
3.) Properly display ~ ! One (1 ) point value is
current monthly ~ i given for properly
promotional ? using the current Gum
counter signs. f ~ & Mint promotional
~ counter sign.
i
4.) Properly display ~ One (1 ) point value is
current monthly ~ given for properly
promotional ~ ', using the current Gum
Nozzle Talkers. ~' ! & Mint promotional
i Nozzle Talkers.
5.) Properly display ~ j a One (1) point value is
current monthly ~ i gmen for properly
promotional Pump ' using the current Gum
Toppers. ~ ~ ,~ & Mint promotional
~! Pump Topper.
_ ____ i
P.O.P. Implementation ~' ~5 out of 5 = 100
Scoring i ', ~I 3 out of 5 = 60 % i
_._-_- ' -'; 1 out of 5 = 20
Planogram ' I -
Implementation i - i
I ~ One (1 ) point value for
1.) Correctly ~ ~ I each of the 75 items
merchandise Gum ~ on planogram so long
& Mint section as ~ ~ as each is
per planogram. I merchandised in the
~ proper location.
Planogram ~' i 75 out of 75 = 100%
Implementation I
22
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Standard - On Standard Off Standard Assessment Value
Service Level
2.) Maintain an in-
stock position of See e0ach(of the' 73 SKU sor
a!I Gum & Mint planogram in-stock. Fewer then
SKU's on 6 packs of any SKU is
planogram. considered out or
about to be out of
stock.
'. Service Level Scoring ~ 73 out of 73 = 100%
23
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
I Roof P,.or.fir.o Dete;li.,rr Cto.,.~a..rl~ I r~H~.,..~..a,, n....
n..........__. I
_ ..,
Standard On Standard Off Standard v Assessment Value
Image
3.) Maintain freshness One (1 ) point value for
of product by Show picture of each of the 44 SKU's
checking date code on so long as the
expiration dates on product packages for each
products regularly. SKU are not expired,
Remove outdated I, soiled, or opened
product from the
shelf.
i
I 4.) Maintain the Show a shelf of ' Show a shelf of
Chocolate Bar O'Henry full O'Henry almost
display by always empty with one
keeping the ~ opened
product packaging _ i
clean and j
unopened
I
age Scoring -- , 4I 4 out of 44 =100%
I_.~ _ -- 1_
Pricing Strategy
One (1 ) point value is
4.) Price regular bars ~ given for pricing
at or below , Regular Bars at or
maximum pricing Jan 15, 01 below maximum
established by price ~ pricing.
survey.
i i
I
~ 5.) Price King Size One (1 ) point value is
Bars at or below ~ , given for pricing King I
maximum pricing Size Bars at or below
established by price ; Jan 15, 01
maximum pricing.
survey. I
I
_ __ ___ __ __ ______ _' _ i
Pricing Strategy Scoring 2 out of 2 = 100 %~
L__ -...-_._-._- _~ 1 out of 2 = 50
24
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Standard _ On Stan__dard Off Standard Assessment Value
P.O.P. Implementation
Picture of price One (1 ) point value is
6.) Properly display given for properly
ID sign and
price identification holder using the Chocolate
sign for Chocolate Bar Price Id. sign and
Bars. holder.
7.) Properly display Picture of a One (1 ) point value is
current monthly Chocolate Bar given for properly
promotional shelf self dangler using the current
dangler for Chocolate Bar
chocolate bars . promotional shelf
dangler.
-.
8.) Properly display One (1 ) point value is
current monthly i given for properly
promotional ; using the current
counter sign. v Chocolate bar
promotional counter
sign. i
-i
9.) Properly display ~ One (1 ) point value is
current monthly ~ ~~I given for properly
promotional j ~ using the current
Nozzle Talkers i ~ ' Chocolate Bar
for chocolate j - promotional Nozzle
bars. I ';, Talkers. ,
i ; ~ ~ _
I 10.)Properly display ~ --, ~ -- ~ One (1 ) point value is
current monthly ! ; given for properly
promotional Pump I using the current
Toppers for I i ! , Chocolate Bar
chocolate bar. ~ ~ ~ promotional Pump
i ' Topper.
P.O.P. Im lementation -._- __-.____.-_--.._ ' t of 5 = 100
p I ;
Scoring , ~ 3 out of 5 = 60
_ _. _ ~ bout of 5-= 20 % J
Planogram . _ __....- .... _- _
Implementation
~ One (1 ) point value for
2. Merchandise each of the 57 item s
________ _ _.1 __~ _
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Chocolate Bar on planogram so long
section as per as each is
planogram. merchandised in the
proper location.
Planogram I 57 out of 57 = 100%
Implementation
Scorina
Standard ~ On Standard----Off Standard ~ Assessment Value
--r
Service Level
3.) Maintain an in- One (1 ) point value for
stock position of See each of the 44 SKU's
all Chocolate Bar planogram in-stock. Fewer then
SKU's on __ 6 packs of any SKU is
planogram. considered out or
about to be out of
stock.
Service Level Scoring I ~ I 44 out of 44 = 100%
26
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
I Rwct Pr.~rtii~w 1?wt~ilinrt Qt9nrlarrle 1 Rm.nronro !'n~w.r.,.... I
Standard ~On Standard ~ Off Standard v Assessment Value
__-
~ Image
1.) Maintain freshness One (1 ) point value for
of product by Show picture of each of the 173 SKU's
checking date Code on so long as the bottles
expiration dates product for each SKU is faced
j on products up, not expired or
regularly. Remove soiled.
outdated product
from the shelf.
I
2.) Maintain the Show a shelf of i Show a shelf of
Beverage display Coke Full j Coke Unfaced
by always keeping i
the product ~ --
packaging clean
and faced up. i
_l _
_.Image 5corin~___ _-~._~_____.,..-» ~ 178 out of 178
_ . _ ---.~-. ~,._ . __,.___.! ._~_~_._- _ ~ =100 % -
27
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Standard ___ On Standard Off Standard Assessment Value
Pricing Strategy
One (1 ) point value is
1.) 355m1 Cans at or given for pricing
below maximum 355m1 cans at or
pricing. below maximum
ricin .
2.) 600m1 bottles at or One (1 ) point value is
below maximum given for pricing
pricing 600m1 bottles at or
below maximum
ricin .
3.) 1 It bottles at or One (1 ) point value is
below maximum given for pricing 1 It
pricing bottles at or below
maximum ricin .
4.) 2 It bottles at or One (1 ) point value is
below maximum given for pricing 2 It
pricing _ bottles at or below
maximum ricin .
5.) 473 ml Alternative One (1 ) point value is
Bev. at or below given for pricing 473
maximum pricing ml Alt. Bev. at or
below maximum
pricing.
~, 6.) 571 ml Neutracitical One (1 ) point value is
drinks at or below given for pricing
maximum pricing 571m1 Neutracitical at
or below maximum
_..--_._____-__-- _._-__.. ricinc .~_
7.) 710 ml Gatorade at One (1 ) point value is
or below maximum given for pricing
pricing 710m1 Gatorade at or
below maximum
__--_ _--_-_ ..__.--.-_.__ Wing
28
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
8.) 500m1 Montclair One (1 ) point value is
water at or below given for pricing
maximum pricing 500m1 Montclair at or
- below maximum
ricin .
9.) 710 ml Montclair One (1 ) point value is
water at or below given for pricing
maximum pricing 710m1 Montclair at or
below maximum
ricin .
10.) 1.5 It Montclair One (1 ) point value is
water at or below given for pricing 1.51t
maximum pricing Montclair at or below
_ __ maximum ricin .
Pricing Strategy Scoring 10 out of 10 = 100
out of 10 = 50
I -_- __%
Standard _ On Standard -_ Off Standard __ Assessment Valu
P.O.P. Implementation
Picture of Price One (1 ) point value is
11.)Price identification ~ ID shelf tags given for properly
shelf tags used. using the Beverage
Cooler Price Id. Shelf
tags.
12.)Current monthly Picture of a One (1 ) point value is
promotional cooler cling given for properly
cooler cling used. using the current
promotional cooler
cling.
_-_.___ -_.___ __--.~_.__-- _-_._
i
13.)Current monthly One (1 ) point value is
promotional given for properly
counter sign used. ~ using the current
Beverage promotional
counter sign.
14.)Current monthly ! One (1 ) point value is
promotional ~ given for properly
Nozzle Talkers I, using the current
used. - ~ Beverage promotional
j Nozzle Talkers . i
-. _-____ _ --L_ _____----_. t _ I
29
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
15.)Current monthly One (1 ) point value is
promotional Pump given for properly
Toppers used. using the current
beverage promotional
Pump Topper.
P.O.P. Implementation 5 out of 5 = 100
Scoring 3 out of 5 = 60
1 out of 5 = 20
Planogram i
Implementation
One (1 ) point value for
3.) Maintain each of the 173
Beverage cooler I facings on planogram
as per planogram. I I so long as each is
' merchandised in the
i I proper location.
- --_-_.-__-_
Planogram ! 173 out of 173 =
Implementation 100%
Scoring
__ -~
Standard On Standard Off Standard Assessment Value
Service Level
4.) Maintain an in- One (1 ) point value for
stock position of See each of the 100 SKU's
97% of the 100 planogram in-stock. Fewer then
SKU's on -6 packs of any SKU is
planogram. , considered out or
about to be out of
stock.
Service Level Scoring 100 out of 100 =
100%
__ -.---- ___-__-_.
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Best Practice Retailin Standards ___ Saltv Snacks Cate or
Standard On Standard Off Standard Assessment Value
Image
5.) Maintain the Show picture of Show picture One (1 ) point value for
Hostess display by full section of section that each of the 100
always keeping is not full facings so long as
the display full and each facing is al least
faced. half filled.
Image Scoring 100 out of 100 =100%
31
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Pricing Strategy
One (1 ) point value is
6.) Large 319g Dorito's given for pricing Large
are priced at or Dorito's at or below
below maximum maximum pricing.
pricing.
7.) Large 280g Ruffles -- One (1 ) point value is
are priced at or given for pricing Large
below maximum Ruffles at or below
pricing. maximum pricing.
Pricing Strategy Scoring 2 out of 2 = 100
1 out of 2 = 50
32
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Standard On Standard__ Off Stan_d__ard Assessment Value
'h P.O.P. Implementation
Picture of Price One (1 ) point value is
I~ 16.)Price identification Ip given for properly
sign used in Take using the Price Id.
i home section. Signage in the take
I, home section.
-_- _-_
17.)Shelf strips used Picture of a self One (1 ) point value is
in both the single strips given for properly
serve and take using the shelf strips
' home sections. in both the single
serve and take home
i
sections.
18.)Both Big Grab - One (1 ) point value is
and Mega Grab Show red frame given for properly
signs with red signs over using the red framed
frames are single serve sign above the Big
properly used. section Grab and Mega Grab
product.
19.)Current monthly One (1 ) point value is
promotional given for properly
counter sign used using the current
properly. promotional counter
sign .
20.)Current monthly I - One (1 ) point value is
promotional Pump i given for properly
Toppers used. ~ using the current
promotional Pump
Topper.
I' P.O.P. Implementation I 5 out of 5 = 100
Scoring 3 out of 5 = 60
1 out of 5 = 20
Planogram
Implementation
One (1 ) point value for
4.) Maintaining the Show picture each of the 100
single serve and of planogram facings on planogram
take home section so long as each is
as per planogram. i merchandised in the
proper location.
Planogram 100 out of 100 =
Implementation 100%
Scorin
____g --__-___.--.__.._.. ____.-. _ -:
33
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
_Standard On Standard ___ Off Standard __ Assessment Value
Service Level
5.) Maintain an in- One (1 ) point value for
stock position of See each of the 10 SKU's
the top 10 planogram in-stock. Fewer then
Hostess SKU's . 3 packs of any SKU is
considered out or
about to be out of
stock.
Service Level Scoring 10 out of 10 = 100%
34
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Best Practice Retailin Standards ____ __Sin le Serve Cate or
Standard On Standard Off Standard Assessment Value
Image
6.) Maintain freshness One (1) point value for
of product by Show picture of each of the 66 SKU's
checking date code on a so long as the each
expiration dates on meat snack SKU is faced up and
products regularly. product none of the product is
Remove outdated expired, soiled, or
product from the opened
shelf.
~.) Maintain the Show a picture Show a picture
Single serve of a full pegged of an almost
section by always section empty section
keeping the
product packaging
clean , unopened,
full and faced up.
Image Scoring 66 out of 66 =100%
Pricing Strategy
One (1) point value is
8.) Small Pringles at or given for pricing Small
below maximum Pringles at or below
pricing. maximum pricing.
3.) Trebor Single serve One (1 ) point value is
at of below given for pricing
maximum pricing. Trebor single serve
product at or below
maximum pricing.
4.) Kripry Kernals - i One (1 ) point value is
Tubes at or below ~ given for pricing
maximum pricing. i Krispy Kernals Tube
at or below maximum
-- pricing.
Pricing Strategy Scoring 2 out of 2 = 100
1 out of 2 = 50
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Standard __ On Standard __- Off Standard- _ Assessment Value
P.O.P. Implementation
Picture of Price One (1 ) point value is
21.)Price identification ID shelf tags. given for properly
shelf tags used in using the Price Id.
front of all SKU's ~ Shelf tags.
22.) Price tickets used Picture of a One (1 ) point value is
on all pegged product with given for properly
product. price tag on top using price tickets on
right hand all pegged product.
r~rnor
1
~ 23.)Both "Snack to One (1 ) point value is
Go" signs in red Picture of given for properly
frames properly signs on top using the "Snacks to
used above of section. Go" signs in red
section. frames on top of
section.
P.O.P. Implementation 3 out of 3 = 100 '%
Scoring 2 out of 3 = 66.6
1 out of 3 = 33.3 %
Planogram
Implementation i
One (1 ) point value for
5.) Maintain Single ~, each of the 81 items
Serve section as I on planogram so long
per planogram, i as each item is
merchandised in the
proper location.
Planogram ', ~ 81 out of 81 = 100%
Implementation
Scoring ' -i
Standard ----~On Standard---_-__~ Off Standard - ~ A~sment Value
Service Level
One (1 ) point value for
6.) Maintain an in- ~~ I each of the 66 SKU's
stock position of See I in-stock. Fewer then
97% of the 66 planogram I 3 packs of any SKU is
SKU's on _ ~ considered out or
planogram. about to be out of
~ stock.
36
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Service Level Scoring-~ 66 out of 66 = 100%
Best Practice Retailin Standards _Take Home Cate or
Standard On Standard Off Standard Assessment Value
Image
8.) Maintain freshness One (1 ) point value for
of product by Show picture of each of the 52 SKU's
checking date Code on so long as the
expiration dates on product products for each
products regularly. SKU are faced up and
Remove outdated not expired, soiled, or
product from the opened.
shelf.
9.) Maintain the Take Show a Full Show a section
Home section by section . almost empty
always keeping with one open
the product faced
up clean and
un~ened
Image Scoring 52 out of 52 =100%
Pricing Strategy -.
One (1 ) point value is
Trebor take home size given for pricing
at or below maximum Trebor take home at
pricing. or below maximum
ricin .
3.) Allan SuperPak at One (1 ) point value is
or below maximum given for pricing Allan
pricing. SuperPak at or below
maximum pricing.
4.) Large Pringles at or -~ One (1 ) point value is
below maximum given for pricing Large
pricing. Pringles at or below
maximum pricing.
i
j Pricing Strategy Scoring 3out of 3 = 100
37
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Standard On Standard Off Standard_ Assessment Value
P.O.P. Implementation
Picture of Price One (1 ) point value is
I, 24.)Price ID shelf tags Ip shelf tag given for properly
used in front of all using Price Id. Shelf
products on shelf. - tags in front of all
products on shelf.
I
~I 25.)Price tickets used Picture of a One (1) point value is
on the top right price ticketed given for properly
hand corner of all pegged product using price tickets on
pegged product. all pegged product.
I
P.O.P. Implementation 2 out of 2 = 100
Scoring -_-
Planogram
Implementation
One (1 ) point value for
6.) Maintain Take each of the 58 facings
Home section as on planogram so long
per planogram. as each item is
-_,_~-, , merchandised in the
proper location.
Planogram 58 out of 58 = 100%
Implementation
Scoring
Standard I On Standard I Off Standard I Assessment Value
Service bevel
7.) Maintain an in- One (1 ) point value for
stock position of See each of the 49 SKU's
97% of the 49 planogram in-stock. Fewer then
SKU's on 3 packs of any SKU is
planogram. considered out or
about to be out of
stock.
Service Level Scoring ~ ~ ~ 49 out of 49 = 100%
38
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Best Practice
Retailin Standards
Automotive Cate
or
Standard On Standard _ Assessment Value
Off
Standard
Image
Show a shelf One (1 ) point
value for
10.)Maintain each of the 162
the facing
Automotive sectionfaced up so long as the
face-up
by always keeping and not soiled.
th
t f
d
e pro
uc
ace-
up~ and clean.
Image Scoring 162 out of 162
=100%
Pricing Strategy
One (1 ) point value is
9.) Current retailer given for pricing all
pricing to be retail product at
followed. current retailer pricing.
I 10.)Current WWAF One (1) point value is
pricing to be given for pricing
followed. WWAF at the current
retailer price..
i
-._-
4.) Current Formula 1 ! One (1 ) point value is i
10W-30 pricing to given for pricing '
j be followed. ; 10W-30 at the current
retailer price.
i -_- - j
i
5.) Current Quaker ' One (1 ) point value is i
State 10W-30 f ! given for pricing
pricing to be I~ I Quaker State 10W-30
followed. ! ' at the current retailer
', price.
Pricing Strategy Scoring ', 4 out of 4 = 100 % ;
3 out of 4 = 75
I, } ! 2 out of 4 = 50
1 out of 4 = 25
39
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Standard On Standard-. Off Standard Assessment Value
P.O.P. Implementation _.
Picture of Price One (1 ) point value is
26.)Price identification ID shelf tags given for properly
i shelf tags to be using the Price Id.
used in front of all Shelf tags in front of
i products on all products on shelf.
shelves.
i
27.)Price tickets to be Picture of a One (1 ) point value is
i used on the top product with given for properly
j right hand corner price tickets on using price tickets on
of all pegged top right hand all pegged products.
product. corner
_ __
P.O.P. Implementation 2 out of 2 = 100
Scoring ----
Planogram
Implementation
One (1 ) point value for
7.) Maintain 8 Ft each of the 163
Automotive facings on planogram
section as per so long as each item
planogram. is merchandised in
the proper location.
Planogram 75 out of 75 = 100%
Implementation
Scoring
Standard I On Standard I Off Standard I Assessment Value
Service Level
8.) Maintain an in- -- One (1 ) point value for
stock position of See each of the 158
97% of the 158 planogram SKU's in-stock.
SKU's on _Fewer then 2 packs of
planogram, any SKU is
considered out or
about to be out of
stock.
Service Level Scoring 158 out of 158 =
100%
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Best Practice Retailin Standards _ Dair Cate or
Standard On Standard ' Off Standard Assessment Value
Image
11.)Maintain freshness One (1 ) point value for
of product by Show picture of each of the 18 SKU's
checking date code on so long as the product
expiration dates on product is faced-up, clean,
products regularly. unopened and not
Remove outdated expired
product from the
shelf.
12.)Maintain the Dairy Show a full Show a shelf of
display by always shelf of Dairy almost empty
keeping the products
products faced-up,
clean and
unopened
- Image Scoring 18 out of 18 =100% i
s
-.- --_ .___ i
~ Pricing Strategy
One (1 ) point value is
i
i 1.) 500m1 milk in given for pricing
cartons at or below 500m1 milk in cartons
i maximum pricing. - at or below maximum
____ __- -___ _-___ pricing.
2.) 400m1 milk shakes One (1) point value is
in cartons at or given for pricing
below maximum 400m1 milkshakes at
pricing. -., or below maximum
il pricing.
'~ ----- ._-_.. _--__._
~~ 3.) 500m1 milk in One (1 ) point value is
bottles at or below given for pricing
maximum pricing. 500m1 milk in bottles
at or below maximum
' -. pricing.
41
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
4.) 1.It milk in cartons One (1 ) point value is
at or below given for pricing 1 It
maximum pricing. milk in cartons at or
below maximum
pricing.
' Pricing Strategy Scorin~ 4 out of 4 = 100
Standard _ On Standard_Off Standard Assessment Value
P.O.P. Implementation
Picture of Price One (1 ) point value is
28.)Price identification Ip shelf tags properly using the
shelf tags used in Price Id. Shelf tags in
front of all front of products with
product. different price points.
P.O.P. Implementation 1 out of 1 = 100
Scorin
I Planogram
Implementation
I One (1 ) point value for '
8.) Maintain the Dairy each of the 21 facings
section as per I on planogram so long
planogram. ~ as each item is
merchandised in the
proper location.
Planogram 21 out of 21 = 100%
Implementation
'__Scoring -___:-_-
Standard On Standard Off Standard Assessment Value
Service Level
9.) Maintain an in- -! One (1 ) point value for
stock position of See each of the 11 SKU's
97% of the 11 planogram in-stock. Fewer then
SKU's on 2 units of any SKU is
planogram. considered out or
about to be out of
' stock.
Service Level Scoring 11 out of 11 = 100%
42
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Best Practice Retailin Standards _Deli Sandwich Cate or
Standard On Standard Off ~itandard Assessment Value
Image
13.)Maintain freshness One (1 ) point value for
of product by Show picture of each of the 6 SKU's
checking date code on so long as the
expiration dates on product packages for each
products regularly. - SKU are not expired,
Remove outdated soiled, or opened
product from the
shelf.
I
14.)Maintain the Deli Show an
Sandwich section Opened
by always keeping peckage
the product
packaging clean
and unopened
Image Scoring 6 out of 6 =100%
Pricing Strategy
-~ One (1 ) point value is
11.) Follow supplier given for each of the 6
suggested pricing. SKU that are priced at
the suppliers
suggested pricing.
12.)Have one specially -One (1) point value is
I priced sandwich. given for specially
pricing one sandwich.
Pricing Strategy Scoring 7 out of 7 = 100
43
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Standard _ On Standard--Off Standard ~ sment Value
P.O.P. Implementation
Picture of Price One (1 ) point value is
29.)Price tickets on ticket on given for properly
the top right hand product using price tickets on
corner of all each of the 6 SKU's..
product.
__-_ -
~ 30.)Special red price Picture of a One (1 ) point value is
ticket used to sandwich with a given for properly
indicate one red price ticket. using a special red
sandwich on -price ticket to indicate
special. one sandwich on
special..
I 4.) Use at least one One (1 ) point value
I Show picture
price id shelf tags given for properly
to identify one of $2.99 shelf using price id. Shelf
$2.99 shelf of ~ tag to identify one
sandwiches. ~ ~ shelf of $2.99
i ! sandwiches.
_P.O.P. Implementation t_ -_ 8 out of 8 = 100
-Scoring. _-~-i! -_
Planogram i
Implementation
I One (1 ) point value for
9.) Maintain 2 maintaining 2 shelves
shelves of ~ of sandwiches,
sandwiches as
per planogram
2.) :Maintain one of the One (1 ) point value for
2 shelves for ~2.~)9 maintaining 1 shelf of
sandwiches. ~ $2.99 sandwiches.
Planogram i ' ', 2 out of 2 = 100%
Implementation I
i
Scorina i
44
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Standard On Standard-Off Standard Assessment Value
~I Service Level
See
10.) Have a minimum planogram One (1 ) point value for
of 12 sandwiches each of the 12
in stock at all sandwiches in stock
times.
2.) Have a minimum One (1 ) point value for
of 6 sandwiches each of the 6
at a $2,99 price sandwiches in stock
point in stock at ~ with a $2.99 price
all times. point.
Service Level Scoring 18 out of 18 = 100%
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
tsest Practice ltetailin Standards __ _ _ _ Chocolate Bar Cate or
Standard . __ On Standard Off Standard Assessment Value
Image
15.)Maintain freshness One (1 ) point value for
of product by Show picture of each of the 44 SKU's
checking date Code on so long as the
expiration dates on product packages for each
products regularly. SKU are not expired,
Remove outdated ~ soiled, or opened
product from the I
shelf. '
16.)Maintain the Show a shelf of I Show a shelf of
Chocolate Bar O'Henry Full O'Henry
I display by always almost empty
keeping the _ with one of the
product packaging I broken open
clean and
unopened i
Ima a Scorin o
~g g I~ 44 out of 44 =100 /o
I._--______ ___- -_- ____L
Standard __--___ On Standard--__.1 O_ff Standard _---. Assessment Value
Pricing Strategy
One (1 ) point value is
13.)Regular Bars at or ~ given for pricing
below maximum Regular gum at or
pricing. ~ below maximum
- I pricing.
14.)King Size Bars at or -- One 1
below maximum ( ) point value is
given for pricing
pricing. Premium gum at or
below maximum
pricing.
46
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Pricing Strategy Scoring 2 out of 2 = 100
1 out of 2 = 50
-__- __
P.O.P. Implementation
Picture of Price One (1 ) point value is
31.)Price identification ID sign and given for properly
sign used. holder using the Chocolate
Bar Price Id. sign and
holder.
i
32.)Current monthly Picture of a One (1 ) point value is
promotional shelf Chocolate Bar given for properly
dangler used. self Dangler using the current
i I Chocolate Bar
promotional shelf
:
w dangler.
-_ ~ --
I
i 33.)Current monthly One (1 ) point value is
promotional given for properly
counter sign used. using the current
Chocolate Bar
promotional counter
! I i ~ sign.
I
-_~
j 34.)Current monthly ~ One (1 ) point value is
promotional ; ~ ! ~ given for properly
Nozzle Talkers i ! using the current
used. ' j ~ Chocolate Bar
i ; promotional Nozzle
Talkers .
_ ' !
_-_ -. ___ _ --_- _ _
'~ 35.)Current monthly ~~ One (1 ) point value is
promotional Pump I ~ given for properly
', Toppers used. ~ I using the current
-. ~ Chocolate Bar
promotional Pump
Topper.
P.O.P. Implementation ' 5 out of 5 = 100
Scoria___-_- -___. -.____-_-_
Standard _- _ On Standard- _ Off Standard -- j Assessment Value
PlanograrrW~
Implementation i
i ; One (1 ) point value for
10.)Maintain ' each of the 57 items
Chocolate Bar I ~ on planogram so long
section as per _ li as each item is
planogram. ~ merchandised in the
j proper location.
47
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Planogram 75 out of 75 = 100%
Implementation
Scoring
Standard On Standard Off Standard Assessment Value
Service Level
11.) Maintain an in- One (1 ) point value for
stock position of See each of the 44 SKU's
97% of the 44 planogram in-stock. Fewer then
SKU's on 6 packs of any SKU is
planogram. considered out or
about to be out of
stock.
Service Level Scoring 44 out of 44 = 100%
48
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Best Practice ~ocolate Bar
Retailin Standards Cate or
Standard _ _ Assessment Value
On Standard Off ~>tandard
Image
17.)Maintain One (1) point
freshness value for
of product by Show picture each of the
of 44 SKU's
checking date code on so long as the
expiration datesproduct packages for
on each
products regularly. SKU are not
expired,
Remove outdated soiled, or opened
product from
the
shelf.
18.)Maintain
the
Chocolate Bar Show a shelf Show a shelf
of of
display by alwaysp'Henry Full O'Henry
keeping the almost empty
product packaging with one of
the
clean and
unopened broken open
Image Scoring ~ 44 out of 44
_ ~-.-- - __._':=100%
Pricing Strategy-_ ._-_.-_ _~ _
-.
j One (1 ) point
value is
15.) Regular ! given for
Bars at or pricing
below maximum ~ Regular gum
at or
pricing. below maximum
pricing.
16.) King Size One (1 ) point
Bars at or value is
below maximum given for pricing
pricing. Premium gum
at or
below maximum
pricing.
Pricing Strategy 2 out of 2 =
Scoring 100
1 out of 2 =
50
49
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Standard _ On Standard Off Standard_ Assessment Value
__
P.O.P. Implementation
Picture of One (1) point
Price value is
36.)Price identificationID sign and given for properly
sign used. holder using the Chocolate
Bar Price Id.
sign and
holder.
37.)Current Picture of One (1 ) point
monthly a value is
promotional Chocolate Bar given for properly
shelf
dangler used, self Dangler using the current
Chocolate Bar
promotional
shelf
I dangler.
38.)Current One (1 ) point
monthly value is
promotional given for properly
counter sign using the current
used.
Chocolate Bar
promotional
counter
sign.
39.)Current One (1 ) point
monthly value is
promotional given for properly
Nozzle Talkers using the current
used. Chocolate Bar
promotional
Nozzle
Talkers .
40.)Current One (1 ) point
monthly value is
promotional given for properly
Pump
Toppers used. using the current
Chocolate Bar
promotional
Pump
Topper.
P.O.P. Implementation 5 out of 5 =
100
Scoring 3 out of 5 =
60
_ _ -____-.___ ~-.__-.-__- - ----1 out of 5 =
_-I_ __-_- 20
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Planogram
Implementation
One (1 ) point value for
11.)Maintain each of the 57 items
Chocolate Bar on planogram so long
section as per as each item is
planogram. merchandised in the
proper location.
Planogram 75 out of 75 = 100%
Implementation
Scorina
Standard On Standard Off Standard Assessment Value
Service Level
12.) Maintain an in- One (1 ) point value for
stock position of See each of the 44 SKU's
97% of the 44 planogram in-stock. Fewer then
SKU's on 6 packs of any SKU is
planogram. considered out or
about to be out of
stock.
Service Level Scoring 44 out of 44 = 100%
a _ -_-_-_ _ _ -- I
51
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Best Practice ~ocolate Bar
Retailin Standards Cate or
Standard ___ Assessment Value
On Standard
Off Standard
Image
19.)Maintain One (1 ) point
freshness value for
of product by Show picture each of the 44
of SKU's
checking date Code on so long as the
expiration datesproduct packages for each
on
products regularly.-_ SKU are not expired,
II Remove outdated soiled, or opened
product from
the
shelf.
20.)Maintain Show a shelf Show a shelf
the of of
Chocolate Bar O'Henry Full O'Henry
display by always almost empty
keeping the with one of
the
', product packaging broken open
clean and
unopened
Image Scoring 44 out of 44 =100%
.--__.-_-_ __- --__ __~. -_._-___-- _
Pricing Strategy
One (1 ) point value is
17.) Regular Bars at or given for pricing
below maximum Regular gum at or
pricing. below maximum
pricing.
18.)King Size Bars at or One (1) point value is
below maximum given for pricing
pricing. Premium gum at or
below maximum
pricing.
52
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
Pricing Strategy Scoring ~ 2 out of 2 = 100
I 1 out of 2 = 50
Standard On Standard Off Standard Assessment Value
~ _ _ _ _
-.
P.O.P. Implementation
Picture of One (1 ) point
Price value is
41.)Price identification(p sign and given for properly
sign used. holder using the Chocolate
Bar Price Id.
sign and
holder.
42.)Current Picture of One (1) point
monthly a value is
promotional Chocolate Bar given for properly
shelf
dangler used. self Dangler using the current
Chocolate Bar
_ promotional
shelf
dangler.
___ _-- ____-_.
43.)Current ~ One (1 ) point
monthly value is
promotional I given for properly
counter sign j using the current
used.
Chocolate Bar
promotional
counter
sign.
___- -_-- -_-_--_
44.)Current One (1 ) point
monthly value is
promotional , given for
properly
Nozzle Talkers '
using
the
current
used. Chocolate
Bar
promotional
Nozzle
i
Talkers
.
53
CA 02425710 2003-04-15
45.)Current One (1 ) point
monthly value is
promotional given for properly
Pump
Toppers used. using the current
Chocolate Bar
promotional
Pump
Topper.
P.O.P. Implementation 5 out of 5 =
100
Scoring 3 out of 5 =
60
1 out of 5 =
20
-~ __-._ . _
Planogram I
Implementation
I One (1 ) point
value for
12.)Maintain ' each of the
57 items
Chocolate Bar i on planogram
so long
section as per as each item
is
planogram. merchandised
in the
proper location.
Planogram 75 out of 75
= 100%
Implementation I ~
Scoring ---. - -_-. !-_ -.
Standard On Off Standard Assessment Value
Standard
Service Level
-
13.) Maintain One (1 ) point
an in- value for
stock position See each of the
of 44 SKU's
97% of the 44 planogram in-stock. Fewer
then
SKU's on _ 6 packs of any
SKU is
planogram. ! considered out
or
j about to be
out of
stock.
i
_ --._ . -
-_-_
Service Level ~ 44 out of 44
Scoring = 100%
54
