Case Study: Plant-Based Beverages

BUSINESS CHALLENGE:
Expand retail exposure for new and familiar products by an established brand

In the summer of 2019, a plant-based milk brand launched a fifteen-week merchandising program with a leading national retailer. Featuring custom end-caps in over 1500 stores, the campaign exposed consumers to new and established products. Because retailer conditions change regularly, and empty slots of high-velocity products are sometimes filled with slower-moving SKUs, the Sales team needed to ensure that shelves were consistently stocked with the full range of products. The Director of National Accounts again turned to Survey to handle the complexity of 23 SKUs with custom end-cap designs and aisle presence.

SURVEY SOLUTION:
Distributed workforce provides national retail execution and real-time data

Survey conducted 6000 visits at 1500 stores between May and September, merchandising, restocking, and reporting on end-caps and aisle shelves. Survey’s field workforce closed execution gaps and delivered data and photos in a dashboard.

“There were stores where we had challenges getting the end-caps set up on time or getting the full assortment placed,” said the Director of National Accounts.

"I have seen many instances where Survey’s actions have made dramatic improvements in our product’s in-store appearance and our results.They aren’t just documenting. They are proactively taking steps to correct and report back to us.”

RESULTS:
Targeted retail execution delivers effective in-store branding activation

Survey re-stocked over 25,000 units in refrigerated end-caps, maximizing the brand’s presentation and product availability in these high-visibility store locations.

End-cap planograms were adjusted and re-merchandised in 40% of all visits. Survey worked with store managers to update price tags, replenish product on shelves, and incorporate seasonal items into the product lineup, creating a feedback loop that fulfilled the program and improved communication with the retailer.

“Survey’s ability to authenticate compliance with the negotiated contract has been crucial to our growth and success. Some of the details for these projects come together in real time. Survey is consistently flexible, nimble, and responsive. Their actions in-store and valuable data confirm that plans are being executed properly. There is no delay so there are no missed opportunities. They’re a great resource.”