From the Aisle Up: How VSS Builds Retail Careers That Last
At VSS, we know great merchandising isn’t just about tidy shelves or perfect planograms. It’s about people. The merchandisers you see in stores every day are the reason our clients’ brands shine and why shoppers find what they’re looking for.
But those results don’t happen by accident. Behind every polished display is a team that’s been trained, supported, and encouraged to grow.
Training that actually makes sense
We’ve all seen training programmes that look great on paper but fall flat in the real world. At VSS, we flip that approach. Our training is built around what actually happens in stores, from handling unexpected stock issues to reading planograms and building displays that grab attention.
We pair new merchandisers with experienced mentors and share live examples through our Polish reporting system. Every project comes with clear written, verbal, and video briefings so our team knows exactly what’s expected before they step into store. Because the better prepared our team is, the better our clients’ results.
Culture built on trust and teamwork
It’s not easy to manage hundreds of stores, multiple brands, and tight deadlines. That’s why culture matters.
Our merchandisers know they’re part of something bigger. They’re supported, respected, and trusted to make smart calls on the floor.
Instead of group chats, our team has access to a 24/7 helpline for immediate support, whether they need clarification, advice, or help with something unexpected. That safety net means no one ever feels stuck, and our standards stay consistent nationwide.
That sense of connection makes a difference. It’s why many of our merchandisers have been with us for years and why clients notice the consistency in our work.
Hiring the right people
We’ve learned over the years that not everyone is cut out for merchandising. It takes initiative, accuracy, curiosity, and a certain type of personality that thrives on making things look just right.
We have our own formula for spotting the right people, and no, we can’t share it. It’s our little secret. But it works.
The result is a team that genuinely cares about doing a great job, understands the brands they represent, and takes pride in getting every detail right.
When you hire people who get it, you don’t have to chase results. They deliver them.
Why it matters
When merchandisers feel supported, they perform better. When they’re proud of the brands they represent, it shows in every display.
Our job is to make sure that pride, skill, and professionalism shine through in every aisle.
Because in the end, it’s not just about the shelves. It’s about the people who make them shine.