The practice of replenishing store shelves with merchandise before the store opens allows customers to find products readily available as soon as the business day commences. For example, grocery stores often restock perishable goods such as produce, dairy, and baked goods in the pre-dawn hours to ensure freshness and availability for early morning shoppers.
This pre-opening replenishment strategy offers several advantages. It minimizes disruption to customers during shopping hours, creating a smoother and more pleasant shopping experience. Additionally, it maximizes sales potential by ensuring product availability during peak shopping periods. Historically, this practice has evolved alongside changing consumer habits and advancements in supply chain logistics, reflecting the increasing demand for 24/7 availability and convenience.