What are the two basic types of advance dating in merchandising?

The correct answer identifies the two fundamental types of advance dating in merchandising as seasonal dating and anticipation dating.

Seasonal dating refers to the practice of scheduling the availability of merchandise to align with specific seasons or events. This can involve timing the purchase and sales of items to match consumer demand during peak seasons, such as holidays or summer sports. By utilizing seasonal dating, retailers can optimize their merchandising strategies to better cater to seasonal trends and enhance sales performance during these periods.

Anticipation dating, on the other hand, involves planning for future sales based on projected demands and customer behavior. This type of dating allows retailers to prepare for upcoming buying patterns, ensuring that they have adequate inventory stocked before the demand actually rises. Retailers can use data and market analysis to anticipate when certain products will be in high demand, thus allowing them to strategically manage their inventory levels.

These two types of advance dating are essential for effective inventory management and merchandising strategies, helping retailers align their product availability with market needs and consumer expectations.