Since our shopping trip to Ikea a few weeks ago I've been thinking a lot about visual merchandising. Specifically how stores make their wares look Ikea accomplishes this goal beautifully. If you've been to Ikea you know that it's not an ordinary shopping trip, but rather a unique experience. From the colorful furniture, homewares, and textiles, to the sleek and simple product designs, to the carefully arranged home showcases, Ikea accomplishes a lofty goal: shoppers are mesmerized, enthralled, and eager to purchase -- all without employees having to "make a sale."
I commented to the professor while we were shopping that desire is awakened simply by seeing... a display of fifty wire wisks hanging in rows, shelves full of colorful cups, the simple, organized way that living is portrayed. It's an interesting and deceptively simple sales tactic, and (at least in Ikea's case) very successful.
It's easy to understand Ikea's success, and why so many people love the store. When beautiful, sleek, and unique products are presented in thoughtful and appealing ways and offered at inexpensive prices the experience is irresistible!
In the photos: Happy colored cups. Perfectly sized for little hands and great for summer sipping. An Ikea treat.
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