How to become a Visual Merchandiser

Visual merchandisers develop floor plans and three-dimensional displays of goods and services in order to maximise sales and profit. These include window displays, interior point-of-sale displays and special promotions.

Personal requirements for a Visual Merchandiser

Creative flair and imagination
Good hand-eye coordination
Good colour sense
Good drawing and design abilities
Able to cope with the physical demands of the job

Education & Training for a Visual Merchandiser

You can work as a visual merchandiser without formal qualifications. Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications. You may like to consider a VET qualification in visual merchandising or retail operations. Applicants may be required to submit a portfolio of artwork. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

Duties & Tasks of a Visual Merchandiser

Visual merchandisers:

Communicate with managers of department stores to determine the floor layout, traffic flow and display points, as well as what items are to be displayed and how
Design window or internal displays based on a theme, style or trend of promotion
Obtain props and accessories for constructing displays
Make and paint props and signs
Dress mannequins and use appropriate lighting to display merchandise for the best possible presentation
Arrange ticketing and signage
Maintain, store and dismantle displays after promotion periods.

Tasks

Setting up fabricated displays in store windows and other areas
Developing overall promotional and display plans for approval
Arranging lighting to highlight fixtures, displays and goods
Preparing sketches and models showing layout, colour and other features for approval
Arranging ticketing and signage
Organising the setting out of goods to be shown as part of permanent displays
Determining goods for display in accordance with prospective seasonal and promotional events
Obtaining props and other accessories, and building displays

Working conditions for a Visual Merchandiser

Visual merchandisers may be required to carry equipment and products, climb ladders, unpack stock and work in confined areas. Those employed by large department stores or firms may travel between head office and branches. They may need to work at night and on weekends and public holidays.

Employment Opportunities for a Visual Merchandiser

Visual merchandising requires creative talent and an eye for detail. Major employers include department stores, small to large retailers and other businesses such as display and exhibition companies. Some visual merchandisers are self-employed as consultants, freelancers and trainers. Wholesalers sometimes employ visual merchandisers to work with retailers to maximise sales through visual presentation in showrooms, exhibitions and trade shows.

Specializations

Visual Merchandiser

Average age
37
Future Growth
Positive
Gender Share
68% female
Average full-time
40 hours
Weekly Pay
N/A
Skill level rating
Entry level
Unemployment
Lower unemployment
Full-Time Share
44%
Employment Size
9,200
Employment by state
ACT: 1.1%
NSW: 33.1%
NT: 0.2%
QLD: 17.4%
SA: 6.7%
TAS: 0.8%
VIC: 32.2%
WA: 8.3%
Age brackets
15-19: 2.2%
20-24: 12.1%
25-34: 33.1%
35-44: 22.1%
45-54: 19.4%
55-59: 5.7%
60-64: 3.4%
65 and Over: 2%
Education level
Advanced Diploma/Diploma: 23%
Bachelor degree: 17.9%
Certificate III/IV: 13.1%
Post Graduate/Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate: 2%
Year 10 and below: 12.9%
Year 11: 5.5%
Year 12: 25.7%