Visual merchandising is the practice of developing floor plans and product displays to maximize sales. The goal is to attract and engage customers to encourage purchases. Effective visual merchandising coordinates physical store elements like lighting, signage, and product placement. Key objectives include making products easy to find and select, educating customers, and promoting new items or themes. Common display types are shelves, hanging racks, mannequins, and open/closed cases. Changing displays frequently keeps the store looking fresh and entices return customers.