Retail toy assortment planning defines the role, quantity, packaging and replenishment logic for each SKU before the buyer commits to the mix. The goal is not to maximize the number of products; it is to build an assortment the store can display, identify, receive and reorder.
Assortment Planning Sequence
- Define the channel: store type, target customer, price/margin direction and display environment.
- Define assortment roles: anchor SKU, complementary SKU, impulse item, seasonal/test item or alternative.
- Score candidate products: use the Retail Assortment Scorecard for customer fit, margin, packaging, display and operational risk.
- Set quantity by SKU: compare the buyer’s planned depth with the product-specific MOQ and pack configuration.
- Plan item data: SKU, barcode, packaging, case pack and receiving fields.
- Plan replenishment: decide what data will be tracked after launch and how strong SKUs will be reordered.
Assortment Planning Table
| Field | What to decide |
|---|---|
| SKU role | Anchor, support, impulse, seasonal/test or alternative. |
| Customer fit | Target buyer/use case and why the item belongs in the assortment. |
| Quantity | Planned units by SKU and product-specific workable minimum. |
| Packaging | Unit pack, label, box/display and barcode/SKU readiness. |
| Display | Shelf/counter footprint, units per display and refill logic. |
| Case pack | Inner/master carton quantity and store/warehouse allocation needs. |
| Risk | Electronics, batteries, complex function, labeling, testing or receiving requirements. |
| Reorder signal | Sell-through, weeks of supply, margin or other buyer-defined trigger. |
Avoid Assortment Duplication
Several visually different products can still serve the same customer need. The buyer should avoid filling the assortment with near-duplicate SKUs that compete for the same display space unless the variation has a clear commercial purpose.
Mixed Colors and Mixed SKUs
Do not assume products or colors can be freely mixed to reach one shared minimum. Confirm the exact SKU/color split, production route and packaging because different products may have separate minimums or packing requirements.
After Launch
Use the Sell-Through Review to identify winners, weak SKUs and packaging/display problems. Then use the Reorder Forecasting Guide to turn real demand and inventory into a replenishment decision.
FAQ
How many SKUs should a retail assortment contain?
There is no universal number. Use display space, budget, category strategy, operational capacity and product-specific minimums to keep the assortment manageable.
Should every SKU use the same packaging?
No. A consistent brand system can still use different package structures where product size, function or display requirements differ.
What is the difference between this guide and the scorecard?
This page structures the assortment process. The scorecard evaluates individual candidate SKUs before they are selected.