What are traditional or general merchandise?

Traditional or general merchandise refers to a broad range of consumer goods sold through various retail channels, typically encompassing a variety of product categories rather than specializing in a single one. This contrasts with specialized retail which focuses on a niche market (e.g., electronics stores, bookstores, sporting goods stores).

Examples of traditional or general merchandise include:

* Apparel: Clothing, shoes, accessories

* Home goods: Furniture, bedding, kitchenware, décor

* Electronics: TVs, computers, appliances (though large electronics stores are becoming more specialized)

* Toys: Games, dolls, action figures

* Hardware: Tools, building supplies (though large hardware stores are also becoming more specialized)

* Sporting goods: (Though specialized stores also exist)

* Personal care items: Cosmetics, toiletries

* Stationery and office supplies: Pens, paper, notebooks

* Food and beverages: (though supermarkets are a specialized category, some general merchandise stores include basic grocery items)

Essentially, if a retail store sells a mix of these items, rather than focusing primarily on a single category, it is considered a general merchandise retailer. Department stores are the classic example of general merchandise retailers. However, smaller stores like general stores in rural areas, or even some supermarkets with an expanded range of non-food items also fall under this broad classification.