How do today's fashion merchants typically handle their merchandise selections?

Today's fashion merchants typically customize merchandise mixes for different locations to effectively meet the specific demands and preferences of their target markets. This strategy acknowledges that consumer preferences can vary significantly based on geographic, cultural, and demographic factors. By tailoring the merchandise to reflect local tastes and shopping behaviors, merchants maximize their appeal and increase the likelihood of sales.

For instance, a store located in a warm climate may emphasize lighter fabrics and summer styles, whereas a store in a colder region might focus on heavier materials and winter apparel. This localized approach helps in optimizing inventory turnover and ensures that the assortment aligns well with the expectations of the customer base in each specific area.

In contrast, stocking all items in equal quantities would not account for the varied demand across locations, leading to potential overstock or understock issues. Offering limited size ranges could alienate potential customers who do not find their sizes available, and avoiding seasonal changes in products would result in a stale inventory that fails to attract repeat business throughout the year.