In merchandising, a line card is a key document that serves as a concise reference for sales professionals and buyers.
According to the reference provided, a business line card contains the list of product specifications, prices, distributors and other details that can be shared with potential customers.
Purpose and Function in Merchandising
A line card acts as a portable, quick-reference guide for sales representatives and distributors when presenting products to retailers or other buyers. It compiles essential information about the product line (hence "line card") offered by a manufacturer or wholesaler.
It helps streamline the sales process by:
- Providing instant access to product information during meetings or presentations.
- Ensuring consistent and accurate information is shared.
- Facilitating order placement by clearly listing items and relevant details.
Key Information Included on a Line Card
Based on the reference and common practice in merchandising, a line card typically includes:
- Product Specifications: Details about the features, materials, dimensions, colors, or other relevant characteristics of each product.
- Pricing: Wholesale pricing, Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), or pricing tiers.
- Distributors: Information on where the products can be sourced.
- Other Details: This can encompass minimum order quantities (MOQs), packaging details, available sizes, case pack information, terms and conditions, or marketing highlights.
Here's a simplified example of how product information might be structured on a line card:
| Product Name | SKU | Key Specs | Price (Wholesale) | Distributor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product Model A | P_A123 | Color Options, Size Range | $15.00/unit | Alpha Supply Co. |
| Product Model B | P_B456 | Material Type, Case Pack | $200.00/case | Beta Goods Inc. |
Who Uses a Merchandising Line Card?
Line cards are primarily used by:
- Sales Representatives: To effectively pitch products to potential buyers.
- Wholesalers and Distributors: To inform retailers about the products they carry.
- Retail Buyers: To quickly review product offerings, compare options, and gather necessary information for ordering.
By providing a standardized and comprehensive overview of a product line, the line card is an indispensable tool for commerce and distribution channels, directly aligning with its definition as a business card containing key product details for potential customers.
