How Bricks-And-Mortar Stores Can Compete In A Digital Market
By Lina Martinez
Online shopping is the new king – it’s a fact. To deny that would be to look stupid because the numbers speak for themselves. Even worse, the industry is growing larger with each passing day. Bricks-and-mortar owners, then, are in a tricky position. How on earth can you compete when the world is shifting to eCommerce? Well, it’s by no means an easy task as the store is constantly fighting against the tide. Therefore, convincing customers to visit the shop, which is the main goal, is pretty tricky.
It’s not impossible, though. Bricks-and-mortar stores are still thriving, and here are the reasons why.
They Make The Experience Easy
Online retailers promote themselves as the most straightforward way to shop. In many ways, they are correct because a product or service is only a click away. However, the process is just simple if people understand the basics of eCommerce. Plus, lots of businesses go too far in their quest for info and make the experience bitty and unpleasant. Physical stores need to capitalize on their mistakes and smooth out the route to the checkout. And, there are certified weights to look into which do the job. As well as scales, focus on customer service and going the extra mile in addition to analyzing the layout of the store.
They Provide It Here And Now
Think about the times of the year that are hectic. Christmas is one, and Easter is another which is coming up fast. Consumers used to be under the impression that they could go online and miss the rush. Nowadays, the majority of shoppers understand that online shopping is worse than going to the store. The reason is a lack of trust. When a person purchases something online, they can’t be sure it will arrive on time. Successful stores have the item in stock and rush it through the checkout to appease any fears. It’s amazing how many people will leave the house for peace of mind.
They Use Online Tactics
Yes, the great physical stores, such as Wal-Mart, don’t rest on their laurels. Instead, they evolve with the times and take advantage of new trends. Your business can do this by using SEO marketing to attract customers to the shop. With the right keywords and phrases, the amount of traffic will double and that should lead to more conversions. If you are unsure why remember that it’s due to the shipping lifecycle of eCommerce sites. Also, don’t be afraid to offer “in-store only” deals. Customers love bargains and will stop by to take advantage.
They Are Quality
Online companies are investing in bricks-and-mortar, Amazon being the main example. Still, the industry isn’t going to thrive just because a tech giant is muscling in on a plot of land. One reason the firm is investing is that of their belief in their brand. Amazon knows it can provide quality, and in turn that will attract consumers. Owners need to take a leaf out of this handbook and follow suit. Focusing on quality is a must because, otherwise, it says to shoppers you may as well stick with online.
Are you a bricks-and-mortar person? How do you plan on competing?