Digitization has had a direct impact on the customer footfall at your retail store. The digital consumer can shop for anything she wants, at any time, and get it delivered to wherever she is. Quick technological advancements in logistics have enabled e-commerce companies to offer same-day delivery of products ordered online. The question naturally arises – what can you do to compel people to visit your store when the benefits seem to be on the other side.
To help you, we have compiled a list of 9 practical ideas that you can implement to drive foot traffic and boost sales at your retail store.
1. Create unique shopping experiences
By its very nature, e-commerce companies give you a clear advantage over themselves – ‘touch & feel’ shopping experiences. Online shopping is a virtual experience which is why your physical proximity to the shopper enables you to establish a ‘human’ connection, thereby increasing the value of the interaction. Hire smart talent, adept at sensing consumer preferences and invest in technologies like POS systems to record and analyze shopping behavior, trends, and patterns. Combine these tactics to deliver unique shopping experiences to your consumers, and they are bound to return for more.
2. Work on the window display
A lot of retail store owners ignore their window displays. Window displays play a crucial in promoting your retail store products. If your window display has a neglected look, displaying dull and faded products, it will not inspire people to visit your store. Changing or upgrading your display windows on a fortnightly basis may nudge the casual observer to pay a visit.
3. Cut down the queue
Most customers dread the long queues and abandon their purchases. To increase sales, banish the long lines. POS systems will help you clear queues faster, thereby improving your turnover.
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4. Go digital
Yes, you read it right! As we mentioned before, consumers are using digital devices during their entire buyer journey. Whether to research the product or to compare prices, consumers are flocking to the digital world to make informed decisions. Hence it is crucial that your store has an online presence with a website, at the very least. You should also be present in listing directories and online forums. Ensure that you include correct details such as name, address, phone number, business hours, visual content, and reviews. It might take some effort, but it will drive traffic to your website and eventually to your retail store.
5. Hydrate your customers
Shopping can make customers thirsty. Offering a free cold drink or juice is a fun way to drive foot traffic to your store. It definitely will create a good impression on your customers. Ensure your customer stays hydrated, they are likely to shop more. Remember point no. 1?
6. Have a strong marketing plan
It is always a good idea to invest in marketing. The proliferation of free online tools and research materials mean that you can create and implement a marketing plan easily without incurring excessive fees/costs. Most modern POS systems come with bulk email and SMS capabilities and are usually an excellent place to start. If your finances permit, you can even consult a marketing agency to help you with creating and running successful marketing campaigns.
7. Create a customer contact list
Ensure that you record your customer profile details like email, birthday, anniversary and phone number, etc. Use the data wisely to reach out to them to promote your sales offer and loyalty programs. Do keep in mind not to spam them.
8. Have a loyalty program in place
In the process of acquiring new customers do not forget your old ones. Always have a loyalty program in place to ensure the retention of old customers. Loyalty programs will also help you create evangelists of your brand.
9. Keep impulse buys close to sales counters
Use the space around the sales counter wisely. Many customers indulge in impulse buys at the sales counter. These are usually low-value products related to your line of business.
Which idea appeals to you?