Final answer:
A standard stock list is a merchandising method where all stores in a chain stock the same items, offering predictability but potentially reducing variety in the marketplace.
Step-by-step explanation:
The merchandising method in which all stores in a retail chain stock the same merchandise is known as a standard stock list. When a grocery chain applies this concept, customers can expect consistency in product offerings, store organization, brand availability, and pricing across all of its locations.
This predictability can lead to improved efficiency and ease of shopping for the customer, as seen in the example provided where workers slice meats and cheese to order and sell goods by the pound for price transparency. However, this approach to merchandising can also lead to reduced variety in the market, creating a more uniform and, some might argue, bland shopping experience.