RETAIL GLOSSARY

Seasonal Markdown Optimisation

The process of determining the optimal timing, frequency, and depth of markdowns during a selling season to maximise gross margin and sell-through rates.

What is Seasonal Markdown Optimisation

Seasonal Markdown Optimisation is a retail strategy and analytical approach used to determine the most effective and profitable way to discount or markdown seasonal products as they approach the end of their selling season. This strategy is particularly important in industries where products have a limited shelf life or strong seasonality, such as fashion, electronics, outdoor equipment, and holiday-related items.

How Seasonal Markdown Optimisation works

Identify Seasonal Products: Retailers first identify which products in their inventory are subject to seasonality. These are items that have a limited selling window due to factors like weather, holidays, or specific events.

Data Collection: Retailers gather historical sales data for these seasonal products. This data includes information on sales volumes, pricing, and timing of sales.

Seasonal Profiles: Retailers create seasonal profiles for each product. These profiles detail how sales and demand patterns change throughout the season. This is typically done by examining sales data from previous seasons.

Demand Forecasting: Using the seasonal profiles and historical data, retailers forecast the remaining demand for the seasonal products as the season progresses. This helps determine how much inventory needs to be sold by the end of the season.

Markdown Strategies: Retailers develop various markdown strategies based on factors such as inventory levels, time left in the season, and the perceived demand for the products. These strategies can include percentage discounts, buy-one-get-one (BOGO) offers, bundle deals, or clearance sales.

Price Optimisation: Retailers use pricing optimisation algorithms and models to calculate the optimal markdown prices for the remaining inventory. These models consider factors like the desired sell-through rate, profit margins, and competitive pricing.

Inventory Management: Inventory levels are continuously monitored and adjusted based on the success of the markdown strategies. If certain products are not selling as expected, further markdowns may be applied to move the inventory before the season ends.

Communication and Marketing: The markdown strategies are communicated to customers through advertising, in-store signage, and online promotions. Effective marketing helps drive traffic and sales for the discounted seasonal products.

Analysis and Adjustments: Retailers regularly analyse the effectiveness of their markdown strategies by comparing actual sales to forecasts. If certain products are not selling as expected, adjustments can be made, including deeper discounts or additional marketing efforts.

End-of-Season Clearance: As the season comes to a close, retailers may implement more aggressive clearance strategies to sell any remaining inventory, such as "end-of-season sales" or "closeout events."

Seasonal Markdown Optimisation aims to maximise revenue and profit while minimising leftover inventory at the end of the season. By using data-driven approaches and pricing optimisation techniques, retailers can make informed decisions about how to discount their seasonal products strategically. This not only helps clear out inventory but also ensures that profitability is maximised throughout the season

Pros of Seasonal Markdown Optimisation

Maximising Profit: Seasonal Markdown Optimisation allows retailers to maximise their profit margins on seasonal products. By carefully analyzing historical sales data, demand patterns, and inventory levels, retailers can set optimal markdown prices that strike a balance between attracting customers and preserving profitability. This ensures that products are sold at the highest possible price throughout the season, and discounts are strategically applied to clear remaining inventory toward the end of the season.
Minimising Inventory Costs: Efficiently managing seasonal inventory is crucial for retailers. Seasonal Markdown Optimisation helps prevent overstocking or understocking of seasonal products. Overstocking can lead to increased carrying costs, storage fees, and the risk of unsold inventory. Understocking, on the other hand, can result in missed sales opportunities. By implementing effective markdown strategies, retailers can minimise carrying costs and avoid the need for deep clearance discounts.
Improved Customer Experience: Retailers can enhance the overall shopping experience for customers by implementing well-planned seasonal markdowns. When products are priced attractively based on demand and time of season, customers are more likely to make purchases. This not only boosts sales but also fosters customer satisfaction and loyalty. It also helps retailers maintain a competitive edge in the market by offering products at prices that align with customer expectations.

Cons of Seasonal Markdown Optimisation

Complexity and Data Requirements: Implementing effective Seasonal Markdown Optimisation requires a significant amount of historical sales data and the use of sophisticated forecasting and pricing models. Smaller retailers or those with limited access to historical data may find it challenging to fully leverage this strategy. Additionally, the complexity of the process can be a barrier for businesses without the necessary analytical resources and expertise.
Risk of Margin Erosion: While the goal of markdown optimisation is to maximise profit, there is a risk of margin erosion if not executed correctly. Overly aggressive markdowns or discounts that are too deep can significantly reduce profit margins, especially if inventory clearance becomes necessary toward the end of the season. Striking the right balance between clearing inventory and preserving profitability can be challenging.
Consumer Expectations: Seasonal Markdown Optimisation must consider consumer expectations and perceptions. Customers have become accustomed to sales and discounts during specific times of the year, such as holiday sales or end-of-season clearance events. Retailers need to be cautious not to deviate too far from these expectations, as it can negatively impact sales. Balancing the desire to maximise profitability with meeting customer expectations is a delicate task.

FAQ

Below you will find answers to common questions

How can Seasonal Markdown Optimisation help us maintain healthy profit margins while clearing seasonal inventory?

Seasonal Markdown Optimisation allows retailers to strategically plan markdowns based on historical sales data and demand patterns. By analysing this data, we can set initial prices that align with customer expectations and preserve profitability early in the season. As the season progresses, the optimisation process helps us identify the right time to implement deeper discounts to clear remaining inventory. This approach minimises the risk of margin erosion and ensures that we maximise profits while efficiently managing inventory.

How can we strike a balance between offering attractive discounts to customers and maintaining our brand's perceived value during seasonal markdowns?

Balancing discounts with maintaining brand value is essential. Seasonal Markdown Optimisation enables us to do this by segmenting our inventory and applying different discounting strategies based on product categories and customer segments. For high-end or premium products, we can offer more subtle discounts that still provide value while preserving brand image. For more seasonal or fast-moving items, we can offer more aggressive discounts to attract price-conscious shoppers. This approach ensures that our markdown strategy aligns with customer expectations and maintains our brand's perceived value.