Published 15 Sept 2025
Article by
3 min read
What is a Planogram Compliance Checklist?
A planogram compliance checklist is a digital tool used by retailers and merchandisers to ensure that products are displayed on shelves according to a predefined planogram. The checklist typically includes steps to verify that items are arranged in the correct order, at the right shelf height, with accurate labels, pricing, and stock levels.
Benefits
A planogram compliance checklist is a vital tool that maximizes retail store spaces, boosts sales performance, and delivers a consistent, engaging shopping experience to customers. Some key benefits include:
Ensures Consistency Across Stores: By verifying that product placements match the approved planogram, the checklist helps maintain a uniform look and shopping experience across all retail locations.
Maximizes Sales and Profitability: Correct product placement guided by planograms optimizes shelf space, highlights high-margin items, and makes it easier for customers to find products, driving sales growth.
Improves Inventory Management: The checklist helps monitor stock levels and product facings, reducing out-of-stock situations and overstocking, leading to better inventory control and reduced waste.
Supports Brand Standards and Marketing: Ensuring that displays align with brand guidelines and promotional campaigns strengthens brand identity and marketing effectiveness in-store.
Enhances Auditor and Staff Accountability: Having a documented process promotes responsibility among store staff and auditors, ensuring tasks are performed systematically and verified.
Facilitates Data-Driven Decisions: Checklists often feed into digital reporting tools, providing valuable data insights on compliance trends and problem areas, enabling informed management decisions.
What to Include in a Planogram Compliance Checklist
A planogram compliance checklist should include essential elements to ensure retail stores accurately follow the approved product placement layout, maximizing product visibility and sales. It is meant to be customized to meet the needs of individual businesses but generally include elements such as:
Verification of product placement according to the planogram
Confirmation of correct product facings and quantities on the shelf
Checking for proper shelf labels and pricing
Ensuring promotional displays are correctly implemented
Validating that products are within their expiration dates and/or in good condition
Capturing photographic evidence of compliance
How to Use a Planogram Compliance Checklist
To maximize the features and benefits provided by a planogram compliance checklist, here is a step-by-step guide on how to use it properly:
Fill out the basic inspection details on the title page. This usually includes the store location, the date of the audit, and the inspector’s name.
Go through the sections included in the checklist and answer the questions in detail. It covers areas such as shelving and organization, product display, visual merchandising, and store layout.
Make sure all answers are detailed and include context when applicable. Attach photos and notes to provide additional information.
Note down any final comments or suggestions. Assign corrective actions as needed to address any issues identified during the audit.
Complete the checklist with a sign-off.
Sample Planogram Compliance Report
For reference, here is an example of a filled-out planogram compliance checklist report:
