Visual Merchandising as a Career in 2026 and Beyond: A Global, Tech-Driven Future

Introduction: Visual Merchandising’s Evolving Status

In my previous article, I asked, “Has Visual Merchandising finally become accepted?”—and I answered with a qualified “yes.” https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/has-visual-merchandising-finally-become-accepted-role-kevin-merrick-e4mjf. The question was rooted in years of observation: visual merchandisers (VMs) have historically been seen as a “nice to have” rather than essential, often the first to face redundancy when retail environments tighten. However, my perspective from the Middle East over the past 18 months has revealed a notable shift. Despite significant retail disruptions—ranging from the war in Gaza and regional boycotts to shipping issues in the Red Sea—visual merchandisers have not been the primary targets of job & role cuts. This signals a growing recognition of their value in a self-service retail landscape.

So, with this newfound acceptance, what does the future hold for visual merchandisers and the broader field of visual merchandising? The answer lies in how the profession adapts to a global, tech-driven future.

Global Environment and Regional Adaptation

As retail brands expand internationally, visual merchandisers face the challenge of maintaining global brand consistency while ensuring local relevance. This dual mandate is reshaping the profession. Regional roles are increasingly important, tasked with adapting global visual strategies to fit local cultures, consumer preferences, and shopping behaviours. This might involve adjusting colour palettes, incorporating local traditions, or responding to regional events and holidays. The ability to blend global guidelines with local nuance is now a critical skill.

At the head office level, visual merchandisers are responsible for developing comprehensive global guidelines and training programs. These initiatives empower regional teams to innovate while maintaining brand coherence. The result is a dynamic, collaborative environment where creativity and strategy intersect across borders.

AI: The Creative Collaborator

There’s a common fear that artificial intelligence will replace jobs, but history suggests a different outcome. The introduction of desktop computing in the 1980s and the rise of mobile technology in recent decades didn’t eliminate jobs—they transformed them. We now work harder, process more data, and have more roles than ever before. AI is simply the latest “team member,” capable of performing certain tasks faster and more efficiently.

By 2026, AI will be indispensable in visual merchandising. Predictive analytics tools, such as ReBO Demand Forecaster, will forecast trends, optimize product placement, and personalize in-store experiences. AI-powered sensors, like ReBO Shopper Detect, will track customer movement, identifying high-traffic zones and enabling real-time adjustments to displays. This level of responsiveness was unimaginable just a few years ago.

In head office roles, AI facilitates the creation of omnichannel campaigns. A single concept can be transformed into augmented reality (AR) experiences, social media content, and window displays—all tailored to regional preferences. Meanwhile, in-store teams can leverage AI to manage inventory more effectively, reducing waste by predicting stock needs with precision (e.g., ReBO Retail Merchandising Suite).

Visual merchandising is evolving into a dynamic, technology-infused career path that blends creativity with strategic thinking. By 2026, professionals in this field will need to master diverse environments—from mono-brand boutiques to global retail empires—while leveraging AI tools to stay competitive.

Career Pathways: From In-Store to Executive

Visual merchandising offers a clear and rewarding career progression. Entry-level in-store roles focus on hands-on tasks such as arranging products, updating signage, and ensuring compliance with brand standards. These positions now require digital literacy, as technology becomes integral to daily operations.

Regional managers, a role I believe is currently most at risk, oversee multiple stores, ensuring visual consistency while tailoring strategies to local markets. They serve as liaisons between head office and in-store teams, using design software and analytics to drive results. However, the rise of remote management tools—such as photography, video, and AI platforms like ReBO’s Retail Store Manager (RSM)—means that some traditional regional responsibilities are being absorbed by technology.

At the head office level, visual merchandisers develop global strategies, manage large-scale campaigns, and lead innovation in sustainability and technology. These roles demand strong leadership, cross-cultural communication, and the ability to translate data into actionable insights.

What Roles Are Most at Risk?

The regional and area manager roles are particularly vulnerable as remote monitoring and AI tools become more sophisticated. Post-pandemic, we’ve grown comfortable managing from afar, and technology continues to streamline these processes. This raises an important question: what will replace the traditional stepping stone from store to head office?

Within the office environment, the creative element of visual merchandising is also at risk. Tasks such as graphic design, promotion and window design, and guideline creation may require fewer individuals as AI takes on more routine aspects. Teams may become smaller and more focused on managing the creative process rather than executing every detail.

The Future Career Path

Success in visual merchandising will require a blend of creativity, tech proficiency, cultural intelligence, and agility. Professionals who embrace AI, understand regional nuances, and excel at storytelling across physical and digital channels will be well-positioned for leadership roles in the years ahead.

 Key Skills for the Future:

• Tech Proficiency: Mastery of AI tools, planogram software, and data analytics platforms.

• Cultural Intelligence: Ability to adapt displays for diverse markets.

• Storytelling: Crafting narratives that resonate across physical and digital channels.

• Agility: Pivoting strategies in response to real-time consumer data.

Expanding Horizons: New Opportunities

Beyond the traditional store-to-head-office pathway, visual merchandisers can explore:

• Digital and Omnichannel Roles: Optimizing product placement and experience across websites, apps, and social media platforms.

• Store Concept & Design: Leveraging deep understanding of store environments to design new retail concepts.

• Retail Marketing: Applying visual merchandising skills to broader marketing initiatives.

• Training and Consulting: Sharing expertise with new hires or external clients or offering consultancy services to brands.

Emerging Fields:

• AI and Tech Integration: Working in AI-driven retail environments, implementing smart displays, augmented reality, and data-driven visual strategies.

• Content Creation: Creating styling and trend reports for digital audiences or collaborating with influencers and social media teams.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Visual Merchandisers

Visual merchandising in 2026 and beyond is a career of limitless potential, blending art and science. Whether curating a luxury mono-brand store or orchestrating AI-driven global campaigns, professionals will thrive by embracing technology, cultural nuance, and strategic innovation. Those who adapt will shape the future of retail—one display at a time.

The future is bright; the future is Visual Merchandising!