Placing dark cookies around lighter cookies is an example of what merchandising technique?

Placing dark cookies around lighter cookies is an illustration of the framing merchandising technique. This approach involves using contrasting colors or shapes to draw attention to specific items and create a visually appealing display. By surrounding lighter-colored cookies with darker ones, the darker cookies act as a frame that enhances the visibility and attractiveness of the lighter cookies, making them stand out to customers. This technique helps to guide the customer's eye and can encourage them to consider purchasing the highlighted items.

The other choices involve different design principles. Categorization is about organizing products into groups for ease of finding and understanding, layering refers to creating depth or dimension in displays, and symmetry involves arranging items in a balanced and equal manner. However, the technique being demonstrated in this scenario, where contrast highlights the product, is best encapsulated by framing.