Ukiah Natural Foods Co-op

Merchandising Policy

Approved December 29. 2003

Revised and Approved February 11, 2008

This merchandising policy translates Ukiah Natural Foods Co-op’s 2001 vision, mission, purpose,
core values and operational considerations into guidelines for decision-making by UNF management and board of directors as they pertain to merchandising.

This policy directs and guides management, staff, and the board of directors and informs UNF Co-op customers on our goals and procedures relating to products sold at UNF.

Table of Contents:

introduction 4

1. Definition and Criteria of Merchandising 5

2. General Store Character 5

3. Product Selection and Emphasis 6

3.1 What Are Our Product Selection Criteria? 6

3.2 How Are Our Buying Decisions Made? 6

3.3 Product Emphasis 7

4. Values that guide product Selection & Emphasis 8

4.1 Nutritional Value And Health Considerations 8

4.2 Price Value 9

4.3 Environmental Impact 9

4.4 Social Responsibility 10

4.5 Commitment to Organics 11

4.6 Exemptions 11

5. Product Display and Promotion 12

5.1 Promotion Criteria: 12

5.2 Standard Display Procedures 12

5.3 Shelf Placement 13

5.4 Shelf Labels and Signage 13

5.5 Checkout Stand Displays 13

5.6 Special Displays 13

5.7 Bulk Area and Labeling 14

5.8 Promotion in Newsletter 14

5.9 Food Sampling and Demonstrations 14

6. Education, Advertising & Community Outreach 15

6.1 Basic Standards 15

6.2 In-Store Information 15

6.3 Advertising and Marketing 16

6.4 Education and Community Outreach 16

6.5 Newsletter 16

7. Product pricing & Dating 16

7.1 Basic Pricing Standards 17

7.2 Return Policy