Assortment policy evaluation in retail
Trade is one of the sectors of the national economy, where the interests of producers (suppliers) and the final consumer (buyer) intersect. On the one hand, when selling consumer goods, trade influences volumes and the manufactured (supplied) product mix. On the other hand, it generates demand and consumption, improving the material and cultural standards of living. Economic and financial indicators of commercial enterprise performance, the level of trade services directly depend on the correctness of the generated range of products for a specific type of retailer. Therefore, the optimal trade list of goods at the retail outlet will not only meet customer demand but also ensure a break-even operation of a commercial enterprise. Assortment policy is one of the key elements of the overall management system of a trade organization, along with price, economic policies, staffing and resources provision. The main objectives of assortment policy are assortment building, meeting the consumer demand volume and structure, reducing costs and increasing profits. Assortment policy evaluation in the retail trade is implemented with the aim of making management decisions based on the systematic analysis of the trade list structure and meeting the consumer demand. Economic and financial performance of retailers depends on the correct trade list formation in accordance with consumer requirements. Therefore, prompt response to the current assessment of the assortment policy implementation and making timely adjustments are important for the organization of all business activities of a commercial enterprise.