An Analytical Approach

The purpose of this case study is to evaluate and analyze the ''4 Pics 1 Case'' picture presented as the subject of this paper. Product assortment and product positioning will be discussed, in particular regard to the goods/commodities shown in the provided picture.

Throughout the course of evaluation and analysis, as aforementioned, issues concerning product assortment and placement, including supermarket/grocery store layout, have been found. Principles concerning Supermarket layout, including the psychology thereof, and consumer behavior will be touched upon in addition to product assortment and positioning. Its goal is not to produce alternative courses of actions, recommendations and a methodology for general implementation, but to provide a critical analysis of the subject within the framework of Marketing and Consumer Behavior. It will seek to answer the question, ''Why are the products in the pictures placed/positioned like that?''

Findings/Observations

The following immediate and general observations have been made:

 The four pictures portray an assortment of products on the supermarket's shelves, the layout and positioning of which may or may not be intentional.

 The subject appears to provide, aside from basic/everyday household products, lines of clothing (Infants' clothing and accessories have been noted) and home appliances.

 In one picture, it was noted that what looked like alcoholic products were placed in the same aisle as toothpaste and baby's diapers.

 In another picture, it was noted that bottled mineral water was placed on the same shelf as what looks like chewing gum/''breath freshening'' products (gum, breath mints, mouthwash, etc.).

 In yet another picture, apple juice was placed on the same shelf as what seemed like alcoholic products. Diapers, facial care and cosmetic products were also to be found in the same aisle

 In the fourth and final picture, powdered milk (Nido) was to be found on the same aisle as dishwasher soap, cosmetic and other miscellaneous products.

Besides what was made apparent in the four pictures, no other background or additional information has been provided. For the purposes of this case study, references to stereotypical/conventional supermarket layout and/or implied psychology will be made.

Analysis

''Impulse buying is the ideological imperative behind the construction and layout of supermarkets and grocery stores. Ever wonder why you can often find two different aisles inside a grocery store that sells salad dressing? Take a trip to the produce section next time to you go to the grocery store and take notice of the brands of salad dressing that you find next to the lettuce and tomatoes. You will find salad dressing located in the produce section, but it's always the more expensive kind than you find in the condiment dressing. Impulse, baby!''

''One of the most common supermarket layout tricks is the placement of dairy. Almost every home in the country has cheese, milk, and butter in the refrigerator. Dairy is a staple of the American diet. Since the grocery stores know that people are going to