Competition Format
Event structure.
Preparation
10 minYou receive a printed scenario card describing a business situation. Read carefully, identify the core problem, and outline your recommended approach. No outside materials allowed.
Role-Play with Judge
Up to 10 minThe judge acts as a business professional (customer, manager, or owner). You present your analysis and recommendations, field questions, and demonstrate your grasp of relevant performance indicators.
Transition / Wrap-Up
Included in 10 minConclude with a clear summary of your recommendations. The judge may ask 1–2 follow-up questions before scoring your role-play.
Performance Indicators
What you'll be tested on.
Product/service management in apparel
Visual merchandising and display
Pricing strategy for retail
Buying and inventory management
Brand positioning and identity
Consumer behavior in fashion
Promotional strategies (social, in-store)
How to Prepare
Preparation framework.
01
Master the Performance Indicators
Download the PI list for your cluster and BA Core from deca.org. Learn the definition of each PI and be able to apply it in a business scenario.
02
Build a scenario framework
Use a consistent opening structure: re-state the situation, state your recommendation, explain the reasoning, address any concerns. Practice until it's automatic.
03
Practice with sample scenarios
DECA posts sample role-plays on deca.org. Time yourself. Film your practice. Review your vocabulary and professionalism.
04
Take practice exams
Use the Practice Exams on this hub. Focus on missed questions and trace each one back to a specific PI.
05
Compete in chapter/district competitions
Nothing replaces reps. Use every qualifier to refine your scenario approach and test comfort under pressure.
Sample Scenario Themes
Representative topics.
Not official DECA scenarios, representative themes based on past competitions.
Developing a strategy to increase average transaction value
Responding to a shift in consumer trends (sustainability, athleisure)
Designing a seasonal promotional campaign
Advising on store layout and visual merchandising
Managing slow-moving inventory
Building a social media content plan for a new product line
Competition Tips
Notes from experienced competitors.
Know current trends in fashion retail: sustainability, omnichannel, direct-to-consumer.
Be prepared to discuss margin, markup, and open-to-buy calculations.
Visual merchandising scenarios are common, understand principles of display (focal point, color blocking).
Demonstrate awareness of both in-store and digital customer touchpoints.
Ready to prep for AAM?
Practice exams for Marketing · Review Marketing + BA Core performance indicators · Roleplay framework.