In the fast-paced environment of a service station, stock rotation is often overlooked in favour of more pressing operational demands. However, poor stock rotation can quietly erode your margins, increase waste, and damage customer trust.

Products like snacks, drinks, oil, car accessories and even first aid items all have a shelf life. When older stock is left at the back while newer stock takes prime position, expiry dates creep up unnoticed. The result? Unsellable items, compliance risks, and a direct hit to your bottom line.

Effective stock rotation isn’t just about placing new deliveries behind existing items. It’s about training your team to actively check dates, adopt the FIFO (First In, First Out) method, and take ownership of each shelf they manage. It’s also about setting clear routines, such as end-of-week checks so no section is ever missed.

Another overlooked impact is customer perception. A shopper who grabs a stale sandwich or an out-of-date bottle of engine oil is unlikely to return. A clean, well-rotated display builds trust and signals that your service station pays attention to the details.

If you’re experiencing ongoing stock losses or receiving customer complaints about product quality, it may be time to audit your rotation practices. Small changes like better shelf labelling, rotating at the point of restock, or empowering staff with quick training can drive significant improvements.

Remember, profitability is not only about selling more, it’s also about reducing what you throw away. Stock rotation is a low-cost habit that protects your reputation and keeps your shelves working in your favour.

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