Food items typically sell more when placed in which position within a category?

Food items typically sell more when placed in the first position within a category due to several factors related to consumer behavior and product visibility. When an item is positioned first, it is the first one that customers see, which can significantly increase its chances of being noticed and selected. This is often referred to as the "first position effect," where consumers may gravitate towards the initial options presented to them, reducing the cognitive load required to evaluate all alternatives.

Additionally, the first position can convey a sense of leadership or prominence in the category, which can appeal to consumers' decisions. Supermarkets and retailers often leverage this understanding through strategic product placement, thereby maximizing visibility and sales potential for items that they want to promote.

In contrast, positions such as the second or last may not draw the same level of attention, as consumers may have already formed a selection bias with the first item or may overlook options at the end of the lineup, especially if they are not actively searching for them. Thus, the first position is critical for enhancing product sales and promoting visibility in retail environments.