A Vendor In-Store Support (VIS) call refers to a routine merchandising visit to a Bunnings store by our team on behalf of a supplier. A merchandiser’s goal is to ensure the supplier’s products have adequate stock levels, correctly presented, and aligned with store standards to maximise sales. Key activities include:

• Stock Replenishment & Ordering: The merchandiser checks inventory levels on the shelf and in overhead or backstock. Any empty shelf positions are refilled by “drop and fill” from top stock. With many retailers now using automated ordering systems, the rep verifies data integrity – if the system erroneously shows stock on hand when the shelf is actually empty, they coordinate an adjustment to trigger reordering. Ensuring the system’s data matches reality is critical. For example, an item won’t get re-ordered if the system thinks 10 are in stock when none are on the shelf.
• Planogram Compliance & Presentation: The merchandiser reviews the planogram (shelf layout) and puts products back in the correct location as required They reposition any misplaced Part of this process is refreshing shelf labels and tickets so that each product has the correct label in the right spot. Labels are key to helping store staff find where to put new stock and thus ensure products actually make it to the shelf, which in turn triggers re-orders in automated systems.
• Housekeeping & Stock Rotation: A regular call includes tidying the shelf and removing any obstructions to sales. The rep cleans up dust or spills, rotates products if needed (so older stock sells first), and identifies any unsaleable stock (damaged or expired items) to remove them from the shelf. They also replace worn or empty shelf-ready packaging (like cardboard display boxes) to keep the section neat[8]. All these presentation steps keep products ready for sale and prevent lost sales opportunities.
• Core Range Audit: The merchandiser cross-checks that the store has the full core range of the supplier’s products. If any missing lines are identified, they address it with the store’s department coordinator or flag it for follow-up with the buying team. This range compliance check ensures products do not drop out of the system
• Communication and Reporting: During the visit, the rep liaises and builds rapport with store team members and management. They might discuss stock issues, upcoming promotions, or gather feedback. Before finishing, the merchandiser documents the visit in our A Team Live reporting app (more on that later). They upload photos of displays or fixes made and note any issues or opportunities. This real-time reporting provides the supplier with immediate visibility of what was done on the call.

A regular VIS call is typically performed on a set call cycle to meet Bunnings requirements. By performing these tasks diligently every visit, we ensure the supplier’s products are always well-presented and in stock for shoppers. Over time, this leads to stronger sales and a better relationship with the retailer.