Online vs Physical Visual Merchandising
Introduction
The retail landscape has transformed dramatically in the past 10 years, and visual merchandising careers are more diverse than ever. Whether you're interested in online visual merchandising or traditional VM and store design, understanding both worlds is crucial for success in today's market. If you think online and physical visual merchandising are completely different worlds? Think again.
With over 16 years of combined experience in both physical and digital retail environments, I've witnessed firsthand how the fundamental principles remain consistent while the execution methods continue to transform. And don’t get me start talking about marketing strategy. Merchandising in 2025 it's multi-sensorial, requiring professionals to adapt their skills across multiple platforms.
3 Core Similarities Between Online and Physical Visual Merchandising
Similarity #1 - Layout and Customer Journey Navigation
Both physical store design and e-commerce visual merchandising require creating intuitive customer journeys that:
Maintain customer interest and inspiration through costumer journey
Guide navigation logically, structured and intuitively
Use creative displays strategically in crucial moments
Apply storytelling to create connections
The goal? Keep customers engaged moving/ exploring through the space.
Similarity #2 - Product Allocation
Smart retail merchandising strategies coordinate products using the same commercial principles:
Color palette coordination across all touchpoints
Collection, seasonal and section grouping
Cross-selling opportunities
Commercial strategy
Industry Insight: Your in-store product coordination should mirror your online proposals. Consistency builds trust and reinforces brand identity across all customer touchpoints.
Similarity #3 - Display Composition
The fundamental visual merchandising techniques never change:
Triangular, Rule of thirds, Visual hierarchy
Color balance and theory
In function or collage
Storytelling elements
In fashion brands maybe the only difference is that in Physical stores use mannequins while online platforms use models. Different tools, identical creative principles.
3 Game-Changing Differences You Need to Know
Difference #1 - Sensorial Engagement
Physical Store Advantages:
Engages all five senses for complete customer immersion
Texture, scent, sound, and atmosphere create memorable experiences
Immediate tactile feedback influences purchase decisions
Online Platform Constraints:
Limited to audio-visual engagement only
Must work harder to create sensory connections through detailed imagery
Requires advanced digital merchandising skills to compensate for sensory limitations
Solution: Online visual merchandisers must master descriptive copywriting, high-quality photography, scenographic photoshoots and video content to bridge that sensorial connection online 💭
Difference #2 - Space Limitations
Physical Store worry about:
Square footage ROI
Fixed fixture availability and layout restrictions
Stocks and sizes constrains
Traffic flow management requirements
Career Implication: Physical VM professionals develop strong spatial problem-solving skills, while digital specialists master embrace creative possibilities and get more proactive and agile to data responsive actions.
Difference #3 - Physical Effort
Physical Visual Merchandising Reality:
Heavy lifting and ladder work required
Night shifts to work when store's closed
Walking kilometers daily
Tool management and hands-on installation
Physical stamina essential for success - Sweat and tears (literally!)
Online Visual Merchandising:
Comfortable desk-based work environment ( Can work in heels ✨)
Technology-focused skill requirements
Long hours of screen
Career Consideration: Choose based on your work style preferences and physical capabilities.
Which Visual Merchandising Career Path is Right for You?
Choose Physical VM If You:
Love hands-on, tactile work environments
Enjoy immediate visual results from your efforts
Prefer shopping in traditional retail atmospheres
Have strong physical stamina and enjoy active workdays
Want direct customer interaction feedback
Choose Online VM If You:
Excel with digital tools and technology
Prefer flexible work arrangements
Enjoy data-driven decision making
Want to reach global audiences
Like testing and optimization
Master Both If You Want To:
Maximize your visual merchandising career opportunities
Command higher salaries in the retail industry
Become a comprehensive retail design consultant
Lead omnichannel retail strategies
Future-proof your professional skillset
Which team are you?
Drop in comments a 💪 for physical team or 👠 for online team.
Check out Steer Academy online courses if you want to master BOTH worlds
