Quick Overview
- 1#1: DotActiv - Advanced planogramming and space planning software that optimizes retail shelf layouts with 3D visualization and automation features.
- 2#2: Javeler - AI-driven retail space planning platform that automates assortment optimization and generates data-backed planograms.
- 3#3: Visual Retail - Comprehensive visual merchandising solution offering digital planograms, store clustering, and photo-realistic 3D renders.
- 4#4: Quintesics - Planogram software focused on space optimization, image recognition, and performance analysis for retail environments.
- 5#5: ShelfLogic - User-friendly planogram design tool that enables quick creation and management of shelf layouts for better merchandising.
- 6#6: RELEX - Enterprise retail platform with integrated space planning and visual merchandising optimization for large-scale operations.
- 7#7: Blue Yonder - AI-powered supply chain and retail software featuring advanced category management and space allocation tools.
- 8#8: Oracle Retail - Full-suite retail management system including merchandising, assortment planning, and space optimization capabilities.
- 9#9: SketchUp - Intuitive 3D modeling software used for designing store layouts, fixtures, and visual merchandising displays.
- 10#10: Vectorworks - Professional CAD and BIM software tailored for retail design, exhibition planning, and detailed visual merchandising renders.
We evaluated tools based on core capabilities (including automation, accuracy, and integration potential), user-friendliness, and value for money, ensuring the list reflects tools that balance innovation with practicality across diverse retail needs.
Comparison Table
This comparison table showcases leading Visual Merchandising Software tools, such as DotActiv, Javeler, Visual Retail, Quintesics, ShelfLogic, and more, to help businesses navigate options effectively. Readers will learn about key features, practical use cases, and distinct differences, empowering them to align technology with their specific visual merchandising needs. From optimizing shelf layouts to enhancing digital displays, the table simplifies complex evaluations into clear, actionable insights.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DotActiv Advanced planogramming and space planning software that optimizes retail shelf layouts with 3D visualization and automation features. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Javeler AI-driven retail space planning platform that automates assortment optimization and generates data-backed planograms. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | Visual Retail Comprehensive visual merchandising solution offering digital planograms, store clustering, and photo-realistic 3D renders. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Quintesics Planogram software focused on space optimization, image recognition, and performance analysis for retail environments. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 5 | ShelfLogic User-friendly planogram design tool that enables quick creation and management of shelf layouts for better merchandising. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | RELEX Enterprise retail platform with integrated space planning and visual merchandising optimization for large-scale operations. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | Blue Yonder AI-powered supply chain and retail software featuring advanced category management and space allocation tools. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Oracle Retail Full-suite retail management system including merchandising, assortment planning, and space optimization capabilities. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | SketchUp Intuitive 3D modeling software used for designing store layouts, fixtures, and visual merchandising displays. | creative_suite | 7.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 10 | Vectorworks Professional CAD and BIM software tailored for retail design, exhibition planning, and detailed visual merchandising renders. | creative_suite | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
Advanced planogramming and space planning software that optimizes retail shelf layouts with 3D visualization and automation features.
AI-driven retail space planning platform that automates assortment optimization and generates data-backed planograms.
Comprehensive visual merchandising solution offering digital planograms, store clustering, and photo-realistic 3D renders.
Planogram software focused on space optimization, image recognition, and performance analysis for retail environments.
User-friendly planogram design tool that enables quick creation and management of shelf layouts for better merchandising.
Enterprise retail platform with integrated space planning and visual merchandising optimization for large-scale operations.
AI-powered supply chain and retail software featuring advanced category management and space allocation tools.
Full-suite retail management system including merchandising, assortment planning, and space optimization capabilities.
Intuitive 3D modeling software used for designing store layouts, fixtures, and visual merchandising displays.
Professional CAD and BIM software tailored for retail design, exhibition planning, and detailed visual merchandising renders.
DotActiv
specializedAdvanced planogramming and space planning software that optimizes retail shelf layouts with 3D visualization and automation features.
AI-driven AutoPlan optimizer that automatically generates and refines planograms for optimal product placement and sales performance.
DotActiv is a comprehensive visual merchandising software platform specializing in planogramming and space optimization for retailers. It allows users to create detailed 3D store layouts, optimize shelf space for maximum sales and efficiency, and ensure compliance across multiple store formats. The tool integrates advanced analytics, assortment planning, and automation features to support data-driven merchandising decisions, making it ideal for professional retail environments.
Pros
- Powerful 3D planogramming and photorealistic visualization tools
- Advanced optimization algorithms for space and sales efficiency
- Robust integration with ERP systems and strong compliance monitoring
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Pricing can be high for small retailers
- Limited free trial or basic version availability
Best For
Large retail chains, supermarkets, and CPG brands needing enterprise-level planogramming and visual merchandising optimization.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at around $500/month for basic plans, scaling with store count and features (enterprise editions higher).
Javeler
specializedAI-driven retail space planning platform that automates assortment optimization and generates data-backed planograms.
AI-driven auto-planogramming that generates optimized layouts from sales data and constraints in minutes
Javeler is a cloud-based visual merchandising platform that enables retailers to create, optimize, and deploy planograms with AI-driven tools for assortment planning and shelf space allocation. It offers 3D rendering, real-time collaboration, and integration with ERP and POS systems to streamline store layouts and boost sales performance. The software provides advanced analytics to measure merchandising effectiveness and support data-driven decisions across multi-store operations.
Pros
- AI-powered planogram generation and optimization for efficient shelf planning
- High-fidelity 3D visualization and drag-and-drop interface for realistic layouts
- Seamless integrations with major retail systems like SAP and Oracle
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for non-expert users due to advanced features
- Pricing scales quickly for large enterprises, less ideal for small boutiques
- Limited on-premise deployment options, primarily cloud-focused
Best For
Mid-to-large retail chains needing scalable, data-driven visual merchandising across multiple stores.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at around $5,000/month based on store count and features; free trial available.
Visual Retail
specializedComprehensive visual merchandising solution offering digital planograms, store clustering, and photo-realistic 3D renders.
Browser-based photorealistic 3D rendering with no need for specialized hardware or software installations
Visual Retail is a cloud-based 3D visual merchandising software that allows retailers to design and optimize store layouts, planograms, and product assortments in photorealistic 3D environments. It features drag-and-drop tools for placing fixtures, products, and displays, enabling quick iteration and visualization of merchandising strategies. The platform supports real-time collaboration, space analytics, and export options for implementation across physical stores.
Pros
- Photorealistic 3D rendering for accurate store visualizations
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for rapid planogram creation
- Real-time cloud collaboration for team-based merchandising
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and geared toward mid-to-large retailers
- Performance can lag with very complex store models
- Limited integrations with some POS or inventory systems
Best For
Mid-sized to large retail chains needing advanced 3D tools for store planning and visual merchandising optimization.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $5,000/year per store cluster; enterprise plans scale with number of users and stores.
Quintesics
specializedPlanogram software focused on space optimization, image recognition, and performance analysis for retail environments.
AI-powered computer vision that automatically detects planogram deviations, product placement, and shelf metrics from uploaded store images
Quintesics is an AI-driven visual merchandising platform that uses computer vision to analyze store photos and videos for planogram compliance, shelf space utilization, and product assortment optimization. Retailers can capture images via a mobile app to receive automated audits on out-of-stocks, pricing accuracy, and merchandising standards across store networks. It provides actionable insights and dashboards to improve visual merchandising performance without manual inspections.
Pros
- Advanced AI for automated planogram compliance and shelf audits from photos
- Scalable analytics for multi-store chains with real-time dashboards
- Mobile app simplifies in-store data capture and reporting
Cons
- Limited native tools for creating new planograms from scratch
- Dependent on image quality and lighting for accurate AI detection
- Enterprise-focused pricing may be steep for smaller retailers
Best For
Large retail chains with multiple locations seeking automated compliance monitoring and merchandising analytics.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically starting at $5,000/month based on store count and features; contact for demo and quote.
ShelfLogic
specializedUser-friendly planogram design tool that enables quick creation and management of shelf layouts for better merchandising.
Photorealistic 3D shelf simulations that mimic real-world lighting and product placement
ShelfLogic is a specialized visual merchandising software that enables retailers to design, optimize, and manage planograms with photorealistic 3D shelf visualizations. It supports assortment planning, space allocation, and compliance monitoring across store networks. The platform integrates with inventory systems for data-driven layouts and offers collaboration tools for remote teams.
Pros
- Photorealistic 3D rendering for accurate shelf previews
- Robust planogram library and drag-and-drop editing
- Advanced analytics for sales optimization and compliance
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for non-expert users
- Pricing can be high for smaller retailers
- Limited native mobile app support
Best For
Mid-sized to large retail chains needing professional 3D planogramming and store compliance tools.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at around $500/month per user, scaled by store count and features.
RELEX
enterpriseEnterprise retail platform with integrated space planning and visual merchandising optimization for large-scale operations.
AI-powered auto-planogramming that dynamically generates and optimizes shelf layouts based on real-time sales and inventory data
RELEX is an enterprise-grade AI-powered retail optimization platform that includes visual merchandising capabilities through its Planogram Optimization and Shelf Space Planning modules. It automates the creation of data-driven planograms by integrating demand forecasting, inventory data, and sales analytics to maximize shelf efficiency and sales potential. The software supports 3D visualization, compliance checks, and real-time updates, making it ideal for large-scale retail operations seeking integrated merchandising solutions.
Pros
- AI-driven automated planogram generation for optimized shelf layouts
- Seamless integration with supply chain, forecasting, and inventory systems
- Advanced 3D visualization and real-time collaboration tools
Cons
- High enterprise-level pricing limits accessibility for smaller retailers
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive features
- Less focus on creative visual design elements compared to specialized VM tools
Best For
Large retail chains and grocery stores needing integrated visual merchandising with end-to-end supply chain optimization.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically subscription-based starting at $50,000+ annually depending on store count and modules.
Blue Yonder
enterpriseAI-powered supply chain and retail software featuring advanced category management and space allocation tools.
AI-powered Shelf Intelligence for automated, data-driven planogram generation and real-time space optimization
Blue Yonder offers enterprise-grade retail software with robust visual merchandising capabilities through its Assortment & Space Planning and Planogram Optimization modules. It leverages AI and machine learning to automate shelf space allocation, create dynamic planograms, and optimize store layouts based on sales data and consumer behavior. The platform integrates seamlessly with broader supply chain management for holistic retail operations.
Pros
- AI-driven planogram automation and optimization
- Deep integration with supply chain and demand forecasting
- Scalable for multi-store, large-scale retail operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation
- High enterprise-level pricing
- Less intuitive for small retailers or quick setups
Best For
Large retail chains and enterprises needing integrated AI-powered visual merchandising within a full supply chain suite.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically annual subscriptions starting at $100K+ based on modules, store count, and users.
Oracle Retail
enterpriseFull-suite retail management system including merchandising, assortment planning, and space optimization capabilities.
AI-powered auto-planogramming that generates optimized layouts based on sales data, fixtures, and assortment constraints
Oracle Retail Visual Merchandising is an enterprise-grade solution that optimizes store layouts, planograms, and visual presentations across retail chains. It integrates space planning, assortment optimization, and store clustering with advanced analytics to align merchandising with sales performance and customer behavior. The platform supports omnichannel strategies, enabling seamless coordination between physical stores and digital experiences.
Pros
- Robust integration with Oracle's full retail suite for end-to-end operations
- Advanced AI-driven planogram optimization and space allocation
- Scalable for large enterprises with multi-store clustering capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring IT expertise
- High cost prohibitive for small to mid-sized retailers
- Customization often demands professional services
Best For
Large retail chains with complex, multi-format store networks seeking integrated enterprise merchandising solutions.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing, typically subscription-based starting at $100,000+ annually depending on store count and modules.
SketchUp
creative_suiteIntuitive 3D modeling software used for designing store layouts, fixtures, and visual merchandising displays.
3D Warehouse, a massive free repository of user-generated retail models, fixtures, and props for instant scene population
SketchUp is a powerful 3D modeling software that enables visual merchandisers to create realistic store layouts, fixture designs, and product displays through intuitive modeling tools. Users can import floor plans, sketch 3D environments, and populate scenes with assets from the vast 3D Warehouse library tailored to retail elements like shelving and mannequins. It supports virtual walkthroughs and basic rendering, making it suitable for pre-visualizing merchandising strategies before physical implementation. Though general-purpose, it excels in rapid prototyping for retail spaces.
Pros
- Intuitive Push/Pull tool for quick 3D modeling of store fixtures
- Extensive 3D Warehouse library with retail-specific assets
- Strong extension ecosystem for rendering and layout enhancements
Cons
- Lacks built-in planogram or inventory management tools specific to visual merchandising
- Performance issues with large, complex retail scenes
- Advanced rendering requires paid extensions or plugins
Best For
Freelance visual merchandisers and small retail teams needing affordable, flexible 3D visualization without enterprise-level specialization.
Pricing
Free web-based version; SketchUp Pro at $349/year; Studio bundle at $699/year including advanced features.
Vectorworks
creative_suiteProfessional CAD and BIM software tailored for retail design, exhibition planning, and detailed visual merchandising renders.
Renderworks integration for photorealistic 3D renderings with advanced lighting and materials tailored to merchandising displays
Vectorworks is a comprehensive CAD/BIM software platform renowned for 2D drafting and 3D modeling, making it suitable for visual merchandising through detailed store layouts, fixture designs, and display visualizations. It supports parametric objects, site modeling, and photorealistic rendering to help merchandisers plan retail spaces effectively. While versatile across industries like architecture and entertainment, its tools adapt well to VM tasks but lack deep retail-specific automation.
Pros
- Powerful 2D/3D modeling and BIM tools for precise merchandising plans
- High-quality Renderworks for realistic store display visualizations
- Extensive object libraries and Marionette scripting for customization
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for non-CAD users
- Expensive compared to niche VM software
- Not optimized with retail-specific templates or automation
Best For
Experienced designers and firms handling complex, large-scale visual merchandising projects that require robust CAD/BIM integration.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $3,045; subscriptions from $152/user/month (Fundamentals), higher for specialized versions like Architect or Spotlight.
Conclusion
This curated list highlights how visual merchandising software empowers retailers to create impactful spaces, with DotActiv leading as the top choice—boasting advanced 3D visualization and automation for optimized shelf layouts. Javeler and Visual Retail follow closely, each offering unique strengths: Javeler's AI-driven assortment optimization and Visual Retail's photo-realistic 3D renders. Together, they confirm that the right tool can transform displays into data-backed, engaging experiences.
Ready to elevate your retail displays? Start with DotActiv to harness its powerful planning capabilities, or explore Javeler and Visual Retail to find the perfect fit for your specific needs.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison