Retail Store Opening and Closing Checklist

This checklist standardises daily opening and closing procedures for retail stores. Designed for store managers and assistant managers in retail environments to ensure consistent standards, loss prevention, and safety compliance.

  • Industry: Retail
  • Frequency: Daily (opening and closing)
  • Estimated Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Role: Store Manager / Assistant Manager
  • Total Items: 18
  • Compliance: OSHA 29 CFR 1910.36 Means of Egress, ADA Title III Accessibility Requirements, NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, State Retail Workplace Safety Regulations

Security and Access

Security systems and access control verification.

  • Alarm system armed/disarmed correctly?
  • Security cameras operational (no blind spots)?
  • Safe balanced and excess cash dropped?
  • Back door locked and alarmed?

Safety Conditions

Store safety checks for customers and staff.

  • All fire exits unobstructed and emergency lights functioning?
  • Fire extinguisher accessible and pressure gauge in green?
  • No spills, tripping hazards, or wet floor conditions?
  • Stockroom organised with no overloaded shelves or blocked aisles?
  • First-aid kit stocked?

Visual Merchandising and Planogram

Compliance with visual merchandising standards.

  • Planogram executed correctly on all fixtures?
  • All items priced with correct shelf tags?
  • Window displays in good condition per current directive?
  • Sales floor clean, floors swept, fixtures dusted?

Operational Checks

Day-to-day operational verification.

  • POS terminals operating and opening float correct?
  • Scheduled staff present or coverage arranged?
  • All lighting operational (replace burned out bulbs)?
  • HVAC set to correct temperature and functioning?
  • Notes for next manager or pending tasks

Related Retail Checklists

Related Store Operations Checklists

Why Use This Retail Store Opening and Closing Checklist?

This retail store opening and closing checklist helps retail teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for store manager / assistant manager professionals, this checklist covers 18 critical inspection points across 4 sections. Recommended frequency: daily (opening and closing).

Ensures compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.36 Means of Egress, ADA Title III Accessibility Requirements, NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, State Retail Workplace Safety Regulations. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Retail Store Opening and Closing Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 18 inspection items across 4 sections: Security and Access, Safety Conditions, Visual Merchandising and Planogram, Operational Checks. It is designed for retail operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed daily (opening and closing). Each completion takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

Who should use this Retail Store Opening and Closing Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Store Manager / Assistant Manager professionals in the retail industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

Browse More Checklists