Refits and relays are large-scale merchandising projects aimed at updating or rearranging store layouts. A refit usually refers to a significant remodel or update of a store or department. It often involving new fixtures, or a major overhaul of how products are displayed. A relay (or reset) typically means remerchandising the products on existing shelving according to a new planogram or layout guide. Both refits and relays are critical for keeping stores fresh, optimised for shopper convenience, and reflective of the latest product range or branding. Our team frequently assists retailers and suppliers with executing refits and relays efficiently.

Purpose of Refits/Relays: Retailers periodically refit stores to improve traffic flow, expand departments, or modernize the look and feel. For example, we helped implement a new store layout for a Mitre 10 in Shepparton to create a more intuitive shopping experience for trade customers, Relays happen often when new planograms are issued to reflect product additions and deletions. Rather than small tweaks, a relay can involve shifting many product lines to new positions across multiple aisles or bays. Both tasks can be quite complex in a live store environment.

How We Tackle a Refit or Relay:

• Planning and Resources: A successful refit/relay begins with planning. We review the new layout plans or planograms provided by the retailer’s head office. From these, we estimate the scope: how many bays or departments are affected and how many team members and hours will be needed. Our project leads allocate the appropriate number of A Team merchandisers and often schedule work in stages. For larger projects or distant locations, planning includes logistics like flights or accommodation for the team. Safety is also planned – refits can involve lifting heavy fixtures or using ladders, so our teams come equipped and trained for these tasks.
• Executing a Relay: In a relay, our team will systematically tackle one section at a time. We remove products from shelves in the order needed, sometimes working one shelf or bay completely empty. Using the new planogram, we then relayout products to the new configuration – this can mean moving shelf heights, changing the sequence of products, and adjusting how many facings each item gets. Each item’s shelf label is updated to match its new position, and we ensure the labels are correctly placed under each product. If new signage or point-of-sale materials are part of the refit, we install those as well. Throughout, we keep the area tidy and organized, often working alongside store staff especially if old fixtures need removal or new ones need installing.
• Executing a Refit: In a bigger refit scenario, multiple areas of the store might be changing concurrently. For example, during a Bunnings refit, entire aisles may be moved or rebuilt. Our role can include dismantling old shelving or displays (sometimes done by Bunnings’ crew, but we assist as needed) and then setting up new shelving according to the plan. Once fixtures are in place, we merchandise the products onto the new bays similar to a relay, following the new layout guides.
• Team Coordination: These projects require close coordination. A team leader (sometimes one of our State Supervisors or project managers) will oversee progress, making sure tasks are on track for the planned completion date. We communicate with the store manager or department heads throughout the job. If challenges arise, we think on our feet and sort it out.
• Completion and Sign-off: Once the refit or relay is done, we do a thorough walkthrough to double-check compliance with the plan. We ensure all products are in their new homes, labels are correct, and the area is clean of any packaging or debris. The store’s management is invited to inspect and sign off that the reset meets their standards. We take photos of the completed work as a record for the client/supplier. We report the completion via A Team Live so our clients see that their sections have been updated.

The value of a well-executed refit or relay is significant. It can enhance sales by making it easier for customers to find products and by giving new items the space they need to succeed. A refreshed layout can also reinvigorate a store’s appearance, drawing customers’ attention to areas that might have been overlooked before. We pride ourselves on helping retailers freshen up stores and implement new layouts on schedule. By utilizing our experienced teams, refits and relays are completed faster and more safely than if store staff had to handle it alone. It’s all about teamwork and meticulous execution to keep the retail environment evolving without disrupting the day-to-day business.