With Format Management you build a format that is successful today and remains relevant tomorrow. From sharp positioning to format development, rollout and management: always consistent, distinctive and future-proof.
A strong format is the foundation of a distinctive customer experience and commercial growth. We help organisations translate their positioning into clear format principles and concrete choices on the shop floor. Whether you are working on a new format or refining an existing one, we provide structure, direction and coherence.
We combine strategy with tools such as the floor space matrix and category manual, ensuring your format is not only well designed but also well executed. Our approach connects brand, channel and shopper in one clear line of thinking and doing. This way, you develop a format that works – with results for your customer and your organisation.
Create a format with
impact and profitability
Positioning & Format principles
Do you want a distinctive format that attracts visitors and keeps them coming back? Together we determine your unique positioning and appealing format principles. With our Format Management model we ensure a consistent experience – from concept to execution. Whether you are just starting out, refining your existing format or expanding, we provide structure and focus. We support you with strategy, tools such as the format and floor space matrix, and practical models. This way, you develop a format with impact – relevant and distinctive in your market.
Category Manual & Floor Space Matrix
How does your format translate to the shop floor or company restaurant? Within Format Management we help you develop a clear category manual that supports decisions on shelf, presentation and layout. With the floor space matrix we lay the foundation for effective space allocation and assortment management. We also work with concrete tools and examples you can apply directly in your format. This ensures consistency in experience and execution across stores or departments. The combination of strategy and practice makes your format recognisable and successful.
Interim Specialists
Do you need temporary reinforcement within Format Management? We provide experienced interim specialists who get up to speed quickly and add value immediately. This way, you combine the right expertise with the flexibility your organisation needs.
Advanced Training Courses
Category Management
In this training, you’ll learn how to translate shopper and market insights into concrete category visions and plans. You’ll gain a clear understanding of how retail formats work, explore strategies and tactics using analyses, tools and cases, and apply them straight away in practice. Strengthen your role and increase the value of your category!
€ 1.825,- (excl. VAT)
27 January & 17 March 2026
12 May & 23 June 2026
6 October & 27 October 2026
Category Management
Online
In this training, you’ll learn how to use data, tools and insights to optimise your online assortment and boost conversion. You’ll discover how to make better use of digital platforms and strengthen collaboration between retailers. For both starters and experienced professionals!
€ 1.825,- (excl. VAT)
22 September & 29 October 2026
Category Management
in foodservice
In this training, you’ll learn how to apply Category Management, Trade Marketing and retail format principles effectively within the foodservice and out-of-home markets. You’ll explore trends, channels, shoppers and routes to market, and work with tools you can use immediately.
€ 1.825,- (excl. VAT)
1 October & 5 November 2026
Format Management
In this two-day training, you’ll learn how to translate brand identity and strategy into clear retail format principles and building blocks such as location, layout, service, assortment, price, presentation and promotion. You’ll discover how to create focus and consistency through format policy, management and execution.
€ 1.825,- (excl.VAT)
10 March & 16 April 2026
17 November & 10 December
What our clients say about us
“The Customer Journey training gave me valuable insights into all my different touchpoints. I started putting it into practice right away.”
Mehmet Eser
Foodservice HOMiES
“Category management is a true specialism. I’d highly recommend this training to anyone involved in category development.”
Marleen Ligtenbarg,
Marketingmanager Maaltijd Thuis
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you mean by a format?
A format is the total set of choices that determine how your brand translates to the shop floor: from assortment and price to experience and positioning.
When should I involve The Category & Trade Company for Format Management?
When developing a new format, repositioning, or when you want to achieve growth with more consistent execution.
Do you also work with hospitality or foodservice formats?
Yes, we have experience in retail, foodservice and out-of-home concepts.
Do you also help with implementation on the shop floor?
Absolutely. For example, developing a category manual, floor space matrix and supporting the rollout.
