The Lope Shop at Grand Canyon University has undergone a significant transformation in preparation for Welcome Week, thanks to the efforts of assistant manager Jayna Watts and visual merchandiser Ella Miller. Their collaboration has resulted in a new boutique-style feel that aims to make shopping easier and more enjoyable for students, parents, and customers alike.
One of the key changes implemented during the „summer of change“ at the Lope Shop is the removal of many clothing racks. In their place, small tables now display apparel, planners, and other gadgets, allowing customers to browse without feeling overwhelmed by congestion. This new layout is particularly beneficial during busy times like Welcome Week, the first week of classes, and holiday sales.
The back wall of the Lope Shop has been transformed with the addition of shelves and television stands, which now showcase neatly folded sections of apparel. Among the new features is an „In My Lopes Era“ section in the center portion of the back wall, catering to Taylor Swift fans with lanyards and coffee mugs.
Throughout the store, customers will find examples of cross merchandising, where items are displayed in multiple locations. This strategy not only enhances the shopping experience but also makes it easier for customers to find what they’re looking for. Additionally, the relocation of the supplies section to a more accessible wall has opened up space for a more streamlined shopping experience.
The inspiration for the new boutique-style layout came from visual merchandiser Ella Miller’s visit to Whidbey Island, Washington, where she observed the effective use of tables and cross merchandising in boutique stores. By incorporating these elements into the Lope Shop, the team aimed to create a more inviting and organized shopping environment.
In addition to the physical changes in the store layout, new merchandise has been introduced to cater to different customer preferences. Team-themed sections for fall sports, Christian clothing from Image One, and instrument supplies for musical students are among the new additions. An Ink’d greeting cards machine and a well-stocked hat stand are also expected to enhance the shopping experience.
As the Lope Shop gears up for Welcome Week, the anticipation is high for a successful launch of the new layout and merchandise offerings. With a focus on the new logo and lavender attire, the store is ready to usher in a new era of shopping for the GCU community.
In conclusion, the collaborative efforts of Jayna Watts, Ella Miller, and the entire Lope Shop team have resulted in a fresh and exciting shopping experience for customers. By embracing a boutique-style feel, implementing cross merchandising strategies, and introducing new merchandise, the Lope Shop is poised to make a lasting impression during Welcome Week and beyond.