Retail Audit Checklist: What to Check In Store

What a retail audit checklist should cover

A retail audit checklist helps area managers and auditors check that every store meets the same standards. It focuses on what customers see and experience in the store.

Exterior and entrance

• Signage clean, lit and undamaged
• Window displays current and in line with the campaign
• Entrance clear, clean and welcoming

Visual merchandising

• Planograms followed for key categories
• Displays full, tidy and correctly priced
• Promotional materials installed as briefed

Pricing and promotions

• Shelf prices match system prices
• Promotions clearly displayed and correctly applied at checkout
• Expired promotional material removed

Stock and availability

• Key products available on the shop floor
• Out-of-stocks recorded and replenishment process followed

Store condition

• Floors, fixtures, fitting rooms and washrooms clean
• Lighting and air conditioning working
• Safety signage and emergency exits clear

Staff and service

• Staff in uniform, well presented and wearing name badges
• Staff available on the floor and greeting customers
• Queue management at checkout

How to use the checklist

Score each item as compliant or non-compliant, add photographs for exceptions, and assign every non-compliance to an owner with a deadline. Repeat audits monthly or around major campaigns to track improvement.