If you own a traditional brick-and-mortar store, then you’ll know more than most how difficult it can be to rival online shopping and other competitors on the high street. It can feel as though you’re swimming against the tide as you try to battle with faceless stores and make your mark within your industry, especially when many of them offer the same products or services as you.
In times of desperation and to get customers through your doors, it’s tempting to lower your prices and undercut the competition. Sadly, once you start offering discounts and money off just to increase footfall, you may find your business finances and bottom line begin to suffer. Thankfully, you don’t have to undermine your success to improve the retail experience. Let’s explore some interesting ways you can do this, without harming your sales margins.
Make payments straightforward
Whether you’re a food truck owner, you have a stall at a farmers’ market or you’re a brick and mortar store, having the right payment terminal and card reader has a strong influence on your retail customer experience. If your current payment forms are complicated, unreliable or you can’t accept certain types of payment then you’re already a step behind your competitors and difficult to shop with. Updating to smarter contactless credit card readers and intelligent POS displays can help keep your business moving and enhance the retail experience for the customer.
Keep your employees happy
There’s nothing more off-putting for customers than staff that appear uninterested, sullen and rude. Why would they ever want to return to your store or café if the staff have a poor attitude? Your employees are the face of your business and they should reflect the high standards of your products and your services. Keeping your employees informed and well-trained in customer service and expectations ensure higher job satisfaction for them and happier customers who are more likely to return after such a positive experience.
Understand your products better
If someone comes into your store with a question about a specific product, this is your chance to outshine the competition, not just as a retailer but as a brand that has an impressive knowledge of its industry and as a company that is committed to helping its customers. Ensure you and your staff are competent and share your passion for all your products. Whether you’re selling electrical components, or a specific coffee blend in your café, brushing up on your knowledge can enhance the retail experience.
Don’t bug your customers
One of the main reasons people enjoy shopping online is because they can do it without being bothered by pushy salespeople. Ensure that you’re giving your customers plenty of autonomy and not hovering around them waiting to close a potential sale. Consider saying hello a few minutes after they enter your store and let them know they can grab you if they need any help.
Final thoughts
With the right approach, your retail experience will be able to compete with your faceless online competitors effortlessly. Consider the points above to get started.
