ROSEMOUNT, Minn. — Cannon Equipment has introduced a front-end merchandising display called VersaGrid that it claims is the first system designed both for traditional single-line checkouts and self-checkouts.

Cannon Equipment has introduced a front-end merchandising display called VersaGrid that it claims is the first system designed both for traditional single-line checkouts and self-checkouts.

The VersaGrid system has been designed with the flexibility to enable retailers to adapt their displays to market trends, consumer preferences and seasonal changes.

"VersaGrid will forever change the way products are displayed at the front end and in other high-value areas of the retail environment," said Chuck Gruber, president of Cannon Equipment. "Ultimately, the VersaGrid system will be a game changer providing retailers a competitive edge by allowing them to stay on top of merchandising innovations in this very valuable space in their stores."

According to the company, shelves, pockets, pegs and bins can be moved accurately at any time and securely locked into place to ensure program compliance. The VersaGrid system is also eco-friendly in that the design is set up to last for over 10 years and all of the merchandising components can be re-used through the Cannon Equipment System.

The system, which uses a series of permanent reconfigurable base frames connected to meet any design criteria, was based on input from grocery, other retail, magazine and branded manufacturing companies, according to Kenny Ramsey, vice president of marketing and new product development for Cannon Equipment. Once the required footprint is established, such standard and custom interchangeable components as shelves, baskets, pegs or magazine pockets can be attached anywhere on the unit.

"Our main objective was to develop a front-end solution that would address the needs of retailers and participants today while providing flexibility to allow for future changes in consumer preferences, product innovations and corporate directives," Ramsey said.

The VersaGrid system was introduced at the ECRM Checklane and Front End EPPS event in Florida earlier this year.