How Retailers Can Bring Customers Back Into Stores
"Retailers are trying to figure out, 'What's the best way to bring customers back into the stores?'" said Shariq Siddiqui, CEO of the retail technology company Veeve. "And customers are trying to figure out, 'How do I walk into a store, do a quick transaction where nobody touches my stuff, and then I just walk out?'"
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a major impact on the retail industry, with many stores forced to close or operate at reduced capacity. As a result, customers have become accustomed to shopping online, and many are hesitant to return to physical stores.
However, retailers are starting to find ways to bring customers back into stores. One way is to offer contactless shopping experiences. This can be done through self-checkout, curbside pickup, and delivery. Retailers are also investing in technology that can help to track and manage customer traffic, so that they can ensure that stores are not overcrowded.
In addition to offering contactless shopping experiences, retailers are also focusing on creating a more enjoyable in-store experience. This includes things like improving the store layout, providing more comfortable seating, and offering free Wi-Fi. Retailers are also starting to offer more experiential shopping experiences, such as in-store cooking classes or beauty makeovers.
The key to bringing customers back into stores is to offer a convenient, safe, and enjoyable shopping experience. By focusing on these factors, retailers can create a competitive advantage and attract customers back to their stores.
Here are some specific examples of how retailers are implementing contactless shopping:
Self-checkout: Self-checkout allows customers to scan and pay for their items without interacting with a cashier. This is a popular option for customers who want to avoid contact with others.
Curbside pickup: Curbside pickup allows customers to order their items online and pick them up at the store without leaving their car. This is a convenient option for customers who are short on time or who do not want to go inside the store.
Delivery: Delivery allows customers to have their items delivered to their home or office. This is a convenient option for customers who do not want to go to the store at all.
In addition to offering contactless shopping options, retailers are also focusing on creating a more enjoyable in-store experience. Here are some specific examples:
Improved store layout: Retailers are redesigning their stores to make them more spacious and inviting. This includes things like removing unnecessary clutter and creating more walkways.
More comfortable seating: Retailers are adding more comfortable seating areas in their stores so that customers can relax and take a break.
Free Wi-Fi: Retailers are offering free Wi-Fi in their stores so that customers can stay connected while they shop.
Experiential shopping experiences: Retailers are offering more experiential shopping experiences, such as in-store cooking classes or beauty makeovers. This can help to make shopping more fun and engaging for customers.
By focusing on contactless shopping and creating a more enjoyable in-store experience, retailers can bring customers back into stores and boost sales.