Top 10 Merchandising Assistant Certifications

Certifications can help a merchandising assistant stand out in the job market. These certifications demonstrate a level of expertise that is valued by employers. They also provide evidence of the individual’s commitment to professional development and their dedication to staying abreast of industry trends and best practices. Additionally, certifications may enable a merchandising assistant to gain access to higher-level positions or better compensation. Finally, certifications can give a merchandising assistant an edge when competing with other candidates for the same position.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the best certifications for Merchandising Assistants and how they can help advance their career.

What are Merchandising Assistant Certifications?

Merchandising Assistant Certification is a credential offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF) that provides recognition of knowledge and skills in merchandising, retailing, product placement, visual merchandising and more. The certification program is designed to help individuals advance their careers in the retail industry. It can also serve as an important benchmark for employers looking to hire experienced professionals for their merchandising team. With this certification, professionals demonstrate their expertise in product selection, inventory management, pricing strategies and promotional tactics. They also learn how to analyze consumer data and trends to identify opportunities for improvement and growth. Additionally, candidates gain an understanding of the importance of cultivating relationships with vendors and customers alike. This knowledge can be used to create effective marketing campaigns that drive sales and customer loyalty. Ultimately, Merchandising Assistant Certification helps individuals develop the necessary skills for success in today’s competitive retail environment.

Pro Tip: Before applying for a merchandising assistant certification, make sure you have a thorough understanding of the retail industry and its trends. Additionally, it is important to have strong organizational skills and an eye for detail in order to be successful in this role.

Related: What does a Merchandising Assistant do?

Top 10 Merchandising Assistant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Merchandising Assistants today.

1. Certified Merchandising Professional (CMP)

Certified Merchandising Professional (CMP) is a certification program from the International Association of Visual Merchandisers (IAVM). It is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of expertise in visual merchandising. The CMP designation is recognized by the retail industry as a mark of excellence and professionalism.

To become certified, applicants must have at least two years of experience in visual merchandising and pass an exam. The exam covers topics such as product display techniques, store layout, customer service, marketing strategies, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost of the CMP certification program varies depending on whether you are an IAVM member or non-member. For members, the cost is $295 USD for the initial application fee plus $125 USD for each subsequent renewal every three years. For non-members, the cost is $395 USD for the initial application fee plus $175 USD for each subsequent renewal every three years.

Once certified, CMPs are required to renew their certification every three years by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

2. Certified Retail Merchandiser (CRM)

Certified Retail Merchandiser (CRM) is a professional certification that recognizes expertise in retail merchandising. It is designed to help retail professionals advance their careers and demonstrate their commitment to the industry. The CRM program is administered by the National Retail Federation (NRF), the world’s largest retail trade association.

To become a Certified Retail Merchandiser, you must complete an online application and pass an exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as merchandising principles, product knowledge, inventory management, customer service, and store operations. You must have at least two years of full-time work experience in retail merchandising or a related field to be eligible for the exam.

The cost of taking the exam is $395 for NRF members and $495 for non-members. The exam fee includes access to study materials and practice exams. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your Certified Retail Merchandiser certificate from NRF.

The entire process typically takes about three months from start to finish.

3. Certified Visual Merchandiser (CVM)

Certified Visual Merchandiser (CVM) is a professional designation for those who specialize in creating attractive and effective visual displays for retail stores. It requires knowledge of product placement, lighting, color coordination, and other design elements to create an inviting atmosphere that encourages customers to shop.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete the CVM program, which includes both online and in-person training. The program consists of four courses: Visual Merchandising Principles, Visual Merchandising Strategies, Store Design & Layout, and Retail Display Techniques. After completing the program, participants must pass a final exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the CVM program varies depending on the provider but usually ranges from $500-$1000 USD. Additionally, some providers may require additional fees such as registration or materials fees.

Once certified, visual merchandisers can use their skills to help retailers increase sales by creating visually appealing displays that draw customers in and encourage them to make purchases.

4. Certified Store Manager (CSM)

Certified Store Manager (CSM) is a professional certification program designed to help retail store managers develop the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage their stores. The CSM program is offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF), and it provides store managers with an understanding of the principles of retail management, customer service, sales and marketing, operations, human resources, finance and accounting, and merchandising.

The CSM program consists of three levels: Certified Store Manager I (CSMI), Certified Store Manager II (CSMII), and Certified Store Manager III (CSMIII). Each level requires passing a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as retail operations, customer service, sales and marketing, operations, human resources, finance and accounting, and merchandising.

It typically takes about two years to complete all three levels of the CSM program. To get certified at each level you must pass the corresponding exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost for each level varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $200-$400 per exam.

5. Certified Retail Operations Manager (CROM)

Certified Retail Operations Manager (CROM) is a certification program designed to provide retail professionals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to effectively manage retail operations. The CROM program is offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF), and it is designed for retail professionals who want to advance their careers in the field of retail operations management.

The CROM certification requires applicants to complete a comprehensive course of study that covers topics such as customer service, store layout and design, inventory control, merchandising techniques, human resources management, financial management, marketing strategies, and more. After completing the coursework, applicants must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

The CROM certification typically takes about three months to complete. The cost of the program varies depending on whether you take it online or in-person; however, most programs cost between $2,500 and $3,500. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam.

In order to get certified as a CROM professional you must meet certain prerequisites such as having at least two years of experience working in a retail environment or having completed an accredited college degree in business or related fields. Once these requirements are met you can apply for the program through the NRF website.

6. Certified Retail Planner (CRP)

Certified Retail Planner (CRP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in retail planning. The CRP program was developed by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and is administered by the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM).

The CRP certification is designed for experienced retail planners who have at least three years of experience in retail planning. The program focuses on developing knowledge, skills, and abilities related to retail planning and strategy. It includes topics such as market analysis, store layout design, merchandise assortment planning, customer segmentation, pricing strategies, and more.

The CRP certification process involves passing an online exam that consists of multiple-choice questions covering the topics listed above. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of experience in retail planning or a related field. The exam fee is $350 USD.

Once you pass the exam, you will receive your official CRP certification from ICPM. This certificate is valid for five years and can be renewed by taking a refresher course or retaking the exam.

The cost of obtaining a Certified Retail Planner (CRP) certification depends on the number of courses taken and any applicable fees associated with taking the exam or renewing your certification. Generally speaking, it can take up to six months to complete all requirements for becoming certified as a CRP.

7. Certified Global Supply Chain Professional (CGSCP)

Certified Global Supply Chain Professional (CGSCP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to provide supply chain professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead successful global supply chain initiatives. The CGSCP certification recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in global supply chain management, including areas such as logistics, procurement, operations, inventory management, and customer service.

The CGSCP certification requires applicants to complete a total of nine courses that cover topics such as global supply chain strategy, risk management, and technology. To qualify for the CGSCP certification, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in a related field. In addition, they must pass an exam that covers all nine courses.

The time it takes to complete the CGSCP certification depends on how quickly you are able to complete the required courses. Typically it takes between six months and one year to complete all nine courses and pass the exam.

To get started on your journey towards becoming a Certified Global Supply Chain Professional (CGSCP), you will need to register with APICS and pay the registration fee. The cost of registering for the CGSCP program is approximately $1,000 USD depending on which country you reside in. This fee includes access to all course materials as well as access to practice exams and other study resources.

8. Certified Logistics and Distribution Professional (CLDP)

Certified Logistics and Distribution Professional (CLDP) is a certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in logistics, supply chain management, transportation, and distribution. The CLDP certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate mastery in the areas of logistics planning, supply chain management, warehousing, inventory control, transportation operations, customer service, and distribution operations.

The CLDP program consists of two parts: an online course and an examination. The online course covers topics such as supply chain management principles; logistics planning; warehousing; inventory control; transportation operations; customer service; and distribution operations. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test the candidate’s knowledge on these topics.

To become certified as a CLDP, applicants must complete the online course and pass the exam with a score of at least 70%. Applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least five years of professional experience in the field or having completed an AST&L approved training program.

The cost for the CLDP certification program varies depending on whether you are taking it through AST&L or through one of their approved providers. Through AST&L directly it costs $895 for members or $1,395 for non-members. Through an approved provider it may cost up to $2,000 depending on which provider you choose.

It typically takes about 10 weeks to complete the online coursework and take the exam but this can vary depending on how quickly you work through the material.

9. Certified Inventory Control Specialist (CICS)

Certified Inventory Control Specialist (CICS) is a certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence in inventory control, materials management, and supply chain operations.

The CICS certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as inventory planning and control, purchasing, supply chain management, production scheduling, and quality assurance. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

To become certified as a CICS, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least two years of professional experience in the field or having completed a minimum of 12 college credits in related subjects. Once the eligibility requirements are met, applicants can register for the exam through APICS’ website. The cost of the exam is $495 USD for members and $595 USD for non-members.

10. Certified Sales Associate (CSA)

Certified Sales Associate (CSA) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Sales Professionals (NASP). It is designed to provide sales professionals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to excel in their field. The CSA certification is recognized as a mark of excellence and provides a competitive edge for those seeking to advance their careers.

The CSA certification program consists of four courses: Professional Selling Skills, Professional Negotiation Skills, Professional Presentation Skills, and Professional Closing Skills. Each course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete. Upon successful completion of all four courses, participants will receive their Certified Sales Associate (CSA) certificate.

In order to become certified, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least two years of sales experience and passing an exam that covers the material from each course. The exam can be taken online or in person at one of NASP's testing centers.

The cost for the CSA certification program varies depending on the format chosen. Online courses typically cost $299 while in-person courses cost $499. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees or proctoring fees.

Do You Really Need a Merchandising Assistant Certificate?

Yes, a Merchandising Assistant Certificate is an important stepping stone in pursuing a career in merchandising. Having the certificate helps demonstrate to potential employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the field. It can also provide you with valuable contacts and resources for furthering your education and career.

The certificate program covers topics such as retailing, product selection, pricing strategies, visual merchandising, customer service, and more. This ensures that you are well-equipped to handle various aspects of the job. Additionally, it may help you develop personal qualities such as communication and problem-solving skills while working with customers or colleagues.

In conclusion, having a Merchandising Assistant Certificate is beneficial for those who want to pursue a career in merchandising. The certificate provides essential knowledge and skills related to the field while helping build your confidence and expand your network of contacts.

Related: Merchandising Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About Merchandising Assistant Certifications

1. What is a Merchandising Assistant Certification?

A Merchandising Assistant Certification is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful merchandisers. It covers topics such as product selection, pricing, marketing, inventory management, visual merchandising, customer service, and more.

2. How do I become certified as a Merchandising Assistant?

In order to become certified as a Merchandising Assistant, you must complete an accredited course of study in retail merchandising and pass an examination to demonstrate competency in the field.

3. What qualifications do I need in order to be eligible for certification?

In order to be eligible for certification as a Merchandising Assistant, you must have at least two years of relevant experience or education in the field of retail merchandising. Additionally, you must pass an examination demonstrating your knowledge and skills related to retail merchandising practices.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a Merchandising Assistant?

The amount of time it takes to become certified varies depending on the individual's experience level and educational background; however, most people are able to obtain their certification within six months to one year of study and preparation.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements after becoming certified?

Yes, most certifying organizations require that individuals maintain their certifications by completing continuing education courses related to the field of retail merchandising every few years in order to stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.