Exclusive Julian Hunt Sainsbury is testing a new way of merchandising fresh produce as part of its efforts to revamp store standards. A key design element is the use of barrels to create a cascade' effect in the departments. The open merchandising idea has come from the US where the company's Shaw's subsidiary has pioneered its use (pictured). Marketing director Sara Weller said the new merchandising had been installed in three stores ­ Hendon, Canley in Coventry and the Dome Roundabout store in Watford. It is going into the company's Nine Elms store in London in the next couple of weeks. And elements of the new merchandising approach are being trialled in three others. Weller said feedback from the initial trials was excellent with many shoppers believing quality and freshness of produce had improved. The techniques are similar to the work under way at Safeway which is also trying to improve the appearance of its fresh produce departments by creating a market feel in its stores. {{NEWS }}

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