Cosmetics/H&BA in spotlight at Ross

Drug Store News, Sept 25, 1989

Cosmetics/H&BA in spotlight at Ross

NEWARK, Calif. -- Cosmetics and H&BA are taking center stage at clothing off-price chain Ross Stores' new prototype.

After two years of selling cosmetics and H&BA, Ross now uses them as an important part of an intentionally upscale presentation.

In the prototype, attention is immediately focused on the two categories, positioned in the front center of the store between young mens and womens apparel departments.

Store design

Dropped track lighting, gold-trimmed glass display cases, compact gondola units, multi-tiered tables and promotional fixtures all combine to show off the products and the department. Unlike the chain's initial foray of 500 SKUs, the new prototype is generally better stocked and lines are more complete.

Within glass cases, which include raised corner displays, are higher-end cosmetics like Glycel, Lancome and Clinique, and fragrances such as Polo, Poison and Gucci. Directly behind this fully-serviced area, Ross stocks fragrances like Stetson, Anne Klein, Jovan and Chaps, along with the store's selection of generally professional, salon-formula hair care products. Here, Ross carries brands such as Paul Mitchell, Stiff Stuff, Aussie and Infusium in a wide range of formulas and sizes.

Low-end cosmetics are then located directly beyond the hair care gondolas and are merchandised along two wall partitions.