What does the term "scrambled merchandising" refer to?

The term "scrambled merchandising" refers to the practice of offering a wide range of unrelated products within a retail setting. This strategy is employed by retailers who choose to diversify their inventory beyond their core business. For example, a grocery store may sell electronics, or a clothing retailer might include household goods in their offerings. This approach aims to attract a broader customer base by providing convenience and a variety of shopping options in one location, thereby enhancing customer experience and potentially increasing sales.

This concept contrasts sharply with organizing merchandise by categories, which adheres to a more traditional and structured approach to retail presentation. It also differs from the alignment seen in traditional sector displays, where products are grouped based on their type or category, and from the focus on specialty items, which narrows the product offering to specific niches. The scrambled merchandising strategy, therefore, represents a significant shift in how a retailer may choose to organize and present its products.