Brick-and-mortar strategies in the digital age
Online shopping is a growing sector of the retail industry, but that doesn't mean brick-and-mortar stores are being phased out. Rather, retail merchants are simply rethinking their marketing strategies to stay relevant in the digital age. This can entail a variety of changes, such as embracing modern POS software and integrating online and in-store services. Here's a look at a few different ways for retail stores to say competitive:
Combine the online and in-store experience
Consumers often like to compare products and prices online, where they can see all the details of particular items, but they may not want to wait days or weeks for delivery. Creating a custom online experience that can easily transition to brick-and-mortar services can be a great way to draw customers in. Digital Journal reported that personalizing the shopping experience across all channels is a great way to provide the instant gratification many shoppers crave. Shoppers can buy online and then pick up their orders at brick-and-mortar locations so they can avoid the hassle and cost of having goods shipped.
Modernize your point of sale
With mobile wallets and online payment options like PayPal and LevelUp, more people are leaving their cash and credit cards at home in lieu of carrying their smartphones. Investing in POS software that can recognize various forms of payment can be a great way to win over customers and draw them in to brick-and-mortar locations. Another great option to offer consumers is email receipts that are easier to track and save than paper and sure to please eco-conscious shoppers.
Offer extra in-store services
When it comes to online shopping, the experience is often lacking a human element. Forbes suggested that retailers can attract shoppers by hosting in-store events to promote newly released products like video games and draw people in for sales. It's also nice for customers to be able to direct their questions to knowledgeable staff. Training employees on the products they are selling can be a great place to start, and retailers can also equip them with tablets that allow them to quickly access inventory and other information to better serve customers. Employees will also be able to track down other stores that carry out-of-stock items or restock on the spot for customers, according to Forbes.
