Merchandising Made Easy - 5 Tips from Pillsbury Bakery Institute\

Lynn Schurman, president, Retail Bakers of America, believes that bakeries today can make a big difference in their retail space with a modest budget.

"It's increasingly important for retail bakeries to stay competitive in today's marketplace," said Schurman. "Retail bakeries may be surprised to learn they can easily update their retail space with a minimal investment to create an impactful change that customers will notice."

Here are five merchandising tips from The Pillsbury Bakery Institute that retail bakeries can implement on a modest budget.

1.     Make your products jump off the shelf. Clearly mark products in display cases with professional-looking signage.
2.     Think of your bakery as an edible gift shop. Keep grab-and-go items by the counter for convenience, impulse purchases and easy gift ideas.
3.     Keep bakery cases looking full. Rotate fresh products to the front of the case throughout the day.
4.     Remind customers of your signature items. Communicate this through brochures, flyers, samples and promotions.
5.     Keep your store-front clean and inviting. A fresh coat of paint goes a long way in creating that welcoming environment.