Top 11 Merchandising Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are important for a merchandising coordinator in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the role. Certifications can give an applicant an edge over other applicants who do not have them, as employers often seek out individuals with certifications when hiring for merchandising coordinator positions. Additionally, certifications can provide evidence of a candidate’s expertise and commitment to their profession, which can help build trust with potential employers.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Merchandising Coordinators and to explain how they can benefit a merchandising coordinator's career.

What are Merchandising Coordinator Certifications?

Merchandising Coordinator Certification is a professional certification for individuals who are responsible for the management and coordination of merchandise within retail stores. The certification is offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF), and it recognizes an individual’s knowledge and skills in merchandising, inventory control, visual display, store operations, customer service, marketing principles and more. By obtaining this certification, individuals demonstrate their commitment to excellence in the field of retail merchandising and can help them stand out in a competitive job market.

The certification provides a comprehensive understanding of the retail industry, helping individuals to better understand the needs of customers and how to effectively meet those needs. It also helps individuals develop strong communication skills that are essential when dealing with vendors and customers. Furthermore, it equips individuals with the technical knowledge needed to properly manage inventory levels, analyze sales data and create effective strategies for increasing sales. By having this knowledge and expertise, professionals with Merchandising Coordinator Certification can confidently make decisions that will lead to improved performance in their organization.

Pro Tip: When looking for a merchandising coordinator certification, make sure to research the certifying body and review their requirements in detail. Also, look for courses that provide hands-on experience and mentoring from experienced professionals. This will help ensure you have the best chance of passing the exam and becoming certified.

Related: What does a Merchandising Coordinator do?

Top 11 Merchandising Coordinator Certifications

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

1. Certified Merchandising Professional (CMP)

Certified Merchandising Professional (CMP) is a certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals working in the merchandising industry. The program is administered by the National Retail Federation (NRF), the world’s largest retail trade association.

The CMP program consists of two parts: an online exam and a professional development course. The online exam covers topics such as product selection, pricing, promotion, and inventory management. It also includes questions about customer service, visual merchandising, store operations, and human resources.

The professional development course consists of four modules that cover topics such as leadership skills, strategic planning, problem solving, and communication. It also includes a project-based assessment that requires participants to develop a merchandising plan for a retail business.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CMP program. To get certified, you must pass both the online exam and the professional development course with a score of at least 75%. You must also have at least two years of experience in retail or related fields.

The cost of the CMP program varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $400 to $600 USD. This fee covers all materials needed for both parts of the program as well as access to additional resources such as webinars and forums.

2. Certified Retail Merchandiser (CRM)

Certified Retail Merchandiser (CRM) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in retail merchandising. This certification provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and strategies used in retail merchandising. It also demonstrates an individual’s commitment to the industry and their ability to serve as a trusted advisor to retailers.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam administered by the National Retail Federation (NRF). The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as product assortment, pricing strategy, store layout, visual merchandising, customer service, and more.

The exam typically takes two hours to complete and costs $395 for NRF members or $495 for non-members. To become certified, applicants must score at least 70% on the exam. Once certified, CRMs are required to renew their certification every three years by completing continuing education courses or retaking the exam.

3. Certified Visual Merchandiser (CVM)

Certified Visual Merchandiser (CVM) is a professional certification program designed to provide visual merchandisers with the knowledge and skills needed to create effective visual displays that attract customers and increase sales. The program focuses on the principles of design, color theory, display techniques, product placement, store layout, and customer service. It also covers topics such as marketing strategies, digital signage, window displays, and more.

The CVM program typically takes about one year to complete and consists of three parts: an online course or workshop; an in-person seminar or workshop; and a final exam. The online course or workshop provides students with the basics of visual merchandising while the in-person seminar or workshop allows them to gain hands-on experience in creating effective displays. The final exam tests their knowledge of all aspects of visual merchandising.

To become a Certified Visual Merchandiser (CVM), you must complete the program requirements and pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher. You must also have at least two years of experience in visual merchandising before taking the exam.

The cost for becoming a Certified Visual Merchandiser (CVM) varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD for the entire program.

4. Certified Store Planner (CSP)

Certified Store Planner (CSP) is a professional certification program offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF). It is designed to provide store planners with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to effectively plan and design retail stores. The CSP certification is valid for three years and requires successful completion of an exam.

The CSP exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as store layout, customer service, visual merchandising, inventory management, and more. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

To become certified, individuals must first meet the eligibility requirements set forth by the NRF. These include having at least five years of experience in store planning or related fields and a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in retail management or related fields. Once these requirements are met, individuals can apply for the CSP certification online through the NRF website.

The cost of becoming a Certified Store Planner is $395 USD plus applicable taxes. This fee covers the cost of registration and examination fees as well as access to study materials and other resources provided by the NRF.

5. Certified Space Planning Professional (CSPP)

Certified Space Planning Professional (CSPP) is a certification program for professionals in the field of space planning. It is designed to recognize and reward individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the principles, practices, and techniques of space planning. This certification provides evidence that an individual has demonstrated a mastery of the skills necessary to effectively plan, design, and implement interior space plans.

The CSPP program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical project. The written exam tests knowledge of the principles and practices of space planning as well as their application to specific projects. The practical project requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge by completing a real-world space planning project.

The CSPP program takes approximately three months to complete from start to finish. Candidates must register for the exam at least six weeks prior to taking it, so they should plan accordingly if they wish to take the exam on time.

The cost for the CSPP program varies depending on where you take it and how much preparation you do beforehand. Generally speaking, it will cost between $500-$1,000 USD including registration fees and materials costs.

In order to become certified as a Certified Space Planning Professional (CSPP), candidates must pass both the written exam and practical project with a score of 80% or higher on each part. Upon successful completion, candidates will receive their certification which is valid for three years before renewal is required.

6. Certified Category Management Professional (CCMP)

Certified Category Management Professional (CCMP) is a certification program offered by the Association for Retail Environments (A.R.E.) that establishes industry standards for category management professionals. The CCMP certification is designed to recognize and promote excellence in category management, which involves the strategic planning and development of product categories within retail environments.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CCMP program, depending on the individual’s experience level and commitment to studying. To get certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as consumer behavior, marketing strategy, pricing strategies, merchandising techniques, and more.

The cost of obtaining the CCMP certification varies based on whether or not you are already a member of A.R.E., but generally ranges from $300-$500 USD.

7. Certified Retail Inventory Manager (CRIM)

Certified Retail Inventory Manager (CRIM) is a professional certification program offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in retail inventory management. The CRIM program requires candidates to demonstrate their knowledge of inventory management principles and practices through a comprehensive exam.

The CRIM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as inventory planning, forecasting, purchasing, pricing, and more. Candidates must also demonstrate their understanding of current industry trends and technologies. To become certified, candidates must pass the CRIM exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The CRIM exam can be taken at any NRF-approved testing center or online via the NRF website. The cost for taking the exam varies depending on the testing center or online provider chosen; however, it typically ranges from $200-$400. It typically takes about four hours to complete the exam.

In order to maintain their certification status, CRIMs must complete continuing education requirements every two years. This includes attending approved training courses or workshops and completing online modules related to inventory management topics.

8. Certified Retail Buyer Professional (CRBP)

Certified Retail Buyer Professional (CRBP) is a certification program offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF). It is designed to recognize those who have achieved an advanced level of knowledge and skill in the retail buying profession. The CRBP program provides a comprehensive review of the principles, practices, and techniques used in successful retail buying.

The CRBP program consists of four courses: Introduction to Buying, Merchandise Planning & Control, Negotiations & Business Relationships and Financial Analysis & Decision Making. Each course includes a final exam that must be passed with a score of 80% or higher for successful completion. The total time commitment for the four courses is approximately 150 hours.

To become certified as a CRBP, you must first complete all four courses and pass the final exams with scores of 80% or higher. You must also have at least two years of professional experience in retail buying or related fields. Once you have completed these requirements, you can submit your application to NRF for review and approval.

The cost to apply for the CRBP certification is $350 USD plus applicable taxes. This fee covers the cost of materials, registration fees, and administration costs associated with the program.

9. Certified Product Assortment Planner (CPAP)

Certified Product Assortment Planner (CPAP) is a professional certification program offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF). It is designed to provide retail professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively plan, analyze, and implement product assortment strategies. The CPAP certification is earned by passing an exam that covers topics such as product selection, pricing strategies, inventory management, customer segmentation, and marketing plans.

The CPAP certification exam can be taken online or in person at an NRF-approved testing center. To take the exam online, you must have a valid email address and access to a computer with an internet connection. The online exam typically takes two hours to complete. In-person exams are held periodically at NRF-approved testing centers across the United States.

To become certified as a Certified Product Assortment Planner (CPAP), you must pass the CPAP exam with a score of 70% or higher. After successfully completing the exam, you will receive your official CPAP certificate from the NRF.

The cost of taking the CPAP exam varies based on whether you take it online or in person. The online version costs $295 USD while the in-person version costs $395 USD.

10. Certified Pricing and Promotion Strategist (CPPS)

Certified Pricing and Promotion Strategist (CPPS) is a professional certification program designed to help professionals in the retail industry understand the principles of pricing and promotion strategy. The CPPS program is offered by the Retail Pricing Professionals International (RPPI) and provides an in-depth understanding of pricing, promotion, and merchandising strategies.

The CPPS program consists of four courses that can be taken either online or in-person. The courses cover topics such as pricing strategy, promotional planning, pricing research, pricing analytics, and more. Each course takes approximately 8 hours to complete.

To become a Certified Pricing and Promotion Strategist (CPPS), you must successfully complete all four courses within two years of enrollment. Upon successful completion of the courses, you will receive a certificate from RPPI indicating your achievement.

The cost for the entire CPPS program is $1,000 USD. This fee covers all four courses, as well as access to additional resources such as webinars and case studies.

11. Certified Supply Chain Merchandising Specialist (CSCMS).

A Certified Supply Chain Merchandising Specialist (CSCMS) is a professional who specializes in the management of supply chain merchandising activities. The CSCMS certification is issued by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). This certification demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in supply chain merchandising and provides organizations with assurance that their personnel have the skills necessary to effectively manage their supply chain operations.

The CSCMS certification requires applicants to pass an exam administered by ASCM. The exam covers topics such as inventory management, procurement, logistics, and customer service. Applicants must also meet certain educational requirements, including a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a related field.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the requirements for the CSCMS certification. Applicants must first register for the exam by submitting an application with supporting documentation to ASCM. Once approved, applicants can take the exam at a designated testing center or online. After passing the exam, applicants must submit proof of their educational qualifications and work experience to ASCM before they are certified as CSCMS professionals.

The cost of obtaining the CSCMS certification varies depending on your country of residence and other factors. In general, it costs around $500 USD to register for the exam and $200 USD for each additional attempt at taking it. There may also be additional fees associated with obtaining your educational qualifications or submitting proof of your work experience.

Do You Really Need a Merchandising Coordinator Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a Merchandising Coordinator Certificate to become a successful merchandiser. However, there are benefits to having one that could make the difference between being an average merchandiser and a great one.

A certificate in Merchandising Coordinator provides valuable insight into the industry and the necessary skills to succeed. This can include courses on understanding customer needs and wants, developing strategies for product placement, analyzing sales data, and creating effective visual displays. All of these skills are essential for any merchandiser who wants to be successful at their job.

Another benefit of having a Merchandising Coordinator Certificate is that it shows employers that you have taken the time and effort to learn about the industry. This can give you an edge over other candidates who do not have this kind of experience or education. Additionally, having this certification may also open up more career opportunities as many companies prefer to hire candidates who have some formal training in merchandising.

In conclusion, while you don’t necessarily need a Merchandising Coordinator Certificate to be successful in the field, it can certainly help you stand out from other applicants and give you the knowledge and skills needed for success in this competitive industry.

Related: Merchandising Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Merchandising Coordinator Certifications

1. What is a Merchandising Coordinator Certification?

Answer: A Merchandising Coordinator Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates competency in the skills necessary to effectively manage and coordinate merchandising activities. It covers topics such as product selection, pricing, display, and promotion of merchandise.

2. Who should pursue a Merchandising Coordinator Certification?

Answer: Individuals who are interested in working in the retail industry or those who currently work in retail and wish to increase their knowledge of merchandising activities should pursue a Merchandising Coordinator Certification.

3. How long does it take to complete a Merchandising Coordinator Certification?

Answer: The length of time needed to complete a Merchandising Coordinator Certification depends on the individual’s prior experience and the specific requirements of the program they choose. Generally, it takes between 6-12 months to complete all certification requirements.

4. What are the benefits of obtaining a Merchandising Coordinator Certification?

Answer: Obtaining a Merchandising Coordinator Certification can help individuals enhance their career prospects by demonstrating their expertise in this field and helping them stand out from other job applicants. Additionally, earning this certification can also lead to higher salaries and more opportunities for advancement within the industry.

5. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Merchandising Coordinator Certification?

Answer: Yes, some programs may require applicants to have prior experience or training related to merchandising activities before they can be eligible for certification. Other programs may also require applicants to pass an exam or complete certain courses before certification is granted.