Which of the following is not a question for assortment managers to address?

The role of assortment managers is centered around optimizing product selection to meet customer needs while maximizing sales and profitability. They focus on various factors such as sales trends, customer preferences, and return rates to guide their decisions.

The first choice, regarding slotting fees, while relevant in broader discussions about product placement and promotions, does not directly relate to assortment management. Slotting fees are more about the cost associated with getting products into stores rather than the ongoing management of the product assortment itself. Assortment managers primarily assess the performance and appeal of products among consumers rather than the financial transactions involved in securing shelf space.

In contrast, evaluating sales trends helps assortment managers understand which products are performing well and should be prioritized. Similarly, analyzing customer preferences by region allows for a tailored approach to meet specific market demands. Tracking return rates can identify problematic products and inform future selections. Hence, the essential focus of assortment management lies in understanding and reacting to consumer behavior and product performance, making the first choice the least relevant question for them.