A pet supplies manufacturer recently approached us to create pallet displays for Costco. Because of our extensive experience working with Costco, Sam’s Club, BJ’s, and other warehouse clubs, we decided to share pallet display best practices so that your test run of 30-50 displays turns into a full launch of all club stores.
Test Orders & Taking Your Best Shot
It’s challenging enough to get the attention of a warehouse club so, once you do, you want to make the most of their initial order or “test” of your products. In addition to creating warehouse club friendly packaging, the design, construction and attractiveness of the pallet display will be critical for strong sales and a successful test.
TPH maintains up-to-date guidelines for the club stores and most major retailers, so we know the requirements you need as well as other pertinent information and how they differ from store to store. For example, while Walmart will take full, half, quarter pallets, Costco generally takes full pallets. Each club store requires different selling position and sizes. The key is understanding how each display is going to be shipped into that club store.
Pallet Display Trays
Trays that are currently used on pallets also give the flexibility of being displayed or stacked along the wall as you enter the Club. Occasionally, the retailer will request less product per tray. In that scenario, it is sometimes more economical to add a filler rather than running a new tray.
Pallet Display Location
Understanding the placement of your pallet displays in the warehouse club is critical. Whether they’re located under a rack in the middle of an aisle (in-line displays), versus at the end of the aisle (end cap display) affects how it will be shopped and the best way to construct it.
For example, Costco pallets that are in-line shop from the 48″ side of the pallet. Sam’s can shop either way and BJ’s shops only on the 40″ side.
Seasonality
Remember that the warehouse clubs buy 2-3 seasons in advance. We are currently working with our clients to supply Costco and others for fall and winter products, at least for the East Coast and Midwest. Product normally arrives in their warehouse 2-3 months ahead of season. Depending upon where your products are manufactured, you have to allow enough time for product manufacturing and fulfillment, ship testing, ocean freight, and local distribution. Packaging and displays should not be an afterthought.
Ship Testing
International Safe Transit Association (ISTA) testing is required for all shipments to Sam’s Club. We conduct the ITSA shipping tests (vibration, drop test, etc.) so that you are certified – both here and in China. We also help our clients get approvals from Sam’s Club if any changes to your retail displays or packaging is needed. We also recommend ship testing for all shipments to Walmart, Meijer, BJ’s, and Costco to ensure your displays hold up in the field.
Harness Our Expertise
Let our 50 years of working with major retailers and warehouse clubs be your guide to a successful test and strong product sales in general. We will ensure that your pallet display meets all warehouse club and retailer requirements, looks great and is cost-effective – whether your products are manufactured in China the U.S. or elsewhere in Asia.
Contact us to learn more about pallet, floor, temporary, and permanent displays
