Fresh Produce
Using Visual Merchandising to Energize Produce Displays
How Visual Produce Displays Can Boost Shopper Engagement
Retailers are transforming their visual produce displays to capture attention, drive engagement, and compete in today’s fast-paced marketplace.
The Power of Eye-Catching Merchandising
Creative presentation is no longer optional—it’s a necessity in the modern produce department.
Shoppers now expect fresh, exciting, and Instagram-worthy produce displays when entering grocery stores.
According to Jonna Parker from Circana, produce marketing begins with visual impact.
Displays must stand out and attract attention immediately to avoid blending in with competitors’ setups.
When retailers present fruits and vegetables in vibrant, unique ways, they draw shoppers deeper into the department.
Innovative design sparks curiosity and encourages exploration beyond the traditional displays.
To make the most of prime display areas, such as the department’s front section, stores must rethink what belongs there.
Instead of only showing sale items, retailers should feature colorful seasonal picks or limited-time specialty products.
This approach not only boosts visibility but also helps stores build excitement around fresh offerings.
When done right, it turns a simple grocery trip into an engaging experience.
Adding Storytelling and Digital Enhancements
Beyond aesthetics, storytelling plays a vital role in connecting shoppers to the produce they buy.
Signage that features grower stories or employee highlights creates a stronger connection and builds trust.
Adding short videos or QR codes lets customers learn about items like dragon fruit or pink pineapples on the spot.
These quick interactions educate while inspiring purchases with preparation tips and recipe ideas.
Such digital experiences appeal especially to younger audiences who crave information and interactivity.
They blend seamlessly into modern shopping habits without disrupting the flow of the visit.
Retailers can use signage to highlight benefits like fiber content, vitamins, and usage tips.
Clear messaging turns passive browsing into informed, confident buying decisions.
Innovating to Attract the Next Generation
Change isn’t easy. Longtime staff may hesitate to update displays that worked for decades.
Yet Parker notes that sticking to old methods no longer drives market share.
Retailers must break from routine and embrace new concepts to win over younger shoppers.
This might involve creating trendy displays based on social media buzz or local preferences.
For example, in areas with Gen Z shoppers, stores can feature ingredients popular on platforms like TikTok.
Cucumbers or citrus fruits arranged in playful, colorful layouts resonate strongly with these digital-savvy consumers.
Operators should see this as a chance to refresh their image and expand their reach.
Instead of waiting for change, they can lead it and stand out in a competitive retail environment.
Visual produce displays offer the perfect vehicle for that transformation.
They blend art, data, and creativity to make produce exciting and accessible for all ages.