an approach to dinnerware retailing in which the ware is sold in individual pieces or small groups rather than in complete, predetermined compositions or sets. Implied, also, is the fact that patterns offered in open stock will be available for an indefinate period following their introduction.

A product offered in a normal case or pack that is purchased and sold at regular price; a product that is not bought in a special pack or as part of a manufacturer's production.

Individual pieces from a furniture grouping that are sold separately.

Refers to the fact that individual pieces of a pattern may be purchased at any time and that they well be available to store customers as long as they are in production.