We often talk of Merchandising in Retailing. But while planning or execution we often forget the core competencies of Merchandising or Merchandise Management.

Merchandising is an art to manage and materialise your merchandise needs. Merchandise management focuses on the planning and controlling aspects of a retailer's inventories. The goal is to balance the funds available with the approach for purchasing merchandise.

There are several methods available to plan merchandise for a specified period.

1. Basic Stock Method (BSM)
2. Week's Supply Method
3. Stock-to-Sale Ratio Method
4. Percentage Variation Method