The humble bricks and mortar stores have been a staple on our high streets for centuries now. From clothing and shoes to homeware and gadgets, people still enjoy popping to the shops to search for items and return home with brand new pieces.
However, for a retail store to survive in the modern era, it needs to update itself and embrace the incredible technology solutions now available. Below, we explore three ways to bring your retail store into the 21st century.
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Update Branding
A retail store that has been opened for several years, or even decades, will at some point require a facelift. This facelift should include not only the color scheme and the layout of the store, but also tech solutions. For example, investing in custom illuminated signs are a modern update from dated store signs. By using signs which use clever lighting and colors, you can ensure customers can find you, whether it’s the height of midday in summer or in the evening in winter.
Additionally, when you are updating your branding, take the time to reassess your business’ tone of voice. Is it currently more formal, when you are looking to attract new, younger customers? The tone of voice you use should also apply to even written communication, including emails to customers, any social media posts, content on your website, and even in any printed materials you have in-store.
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Embrace E-Commerce
It’s common knowledge that a lot of consumers now choose to buy online. It’s for this reason why any retail store in the modern world needs an e-commerce platform to sell from, which also enables them to sell across the globe should they wish to do so. E-commerce is suitable for retailers of a vast variety of items, from pet toys to beauty supplies. Of course, there are key aspects your e-commerce store needs to make sure it hooks visitors in and convinces them to make a purchase. For example, you need to pay attention to:
- SEO: All e-commerce stores need to be found by those who will want their goods. Search Engine Optimization plays a crucial role in this. Optimize your website, and you will see it rising through the rankings on search engines like Google.
- Product Descriptions: To sell your items, you need to make them sound attractive and compelling. While you may love and be passionate about your products, it’s always worthwhile to employ a specialized copywriter to create these descriptions. If you do write them yourself, make sure you proof them beforehand, as any spelling mistakes and grammar issues will turn customers away as it won’t have the much-needed authority, and customers won’t trust you to deliver the goods.
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Invest in an App
Much like shopping online is now the norm; shopping via smartphone apps is increasingly growing in popularity. So much so that it’s becoming a crucial aspect of a retail store. Apps enable shoppers to browse your products and buy on the go, whether they are sitting on the bus, scrolling through on their lunch break, or while they are sitting on the couch at night. Investing in an app is worthwhile for any retail business which has an extensive product directory to showcase.
For example, retailers such as Nordstrom and Walmart have easy-to-use apps that allow consumers to make purchases quickly and easily.
To survive in the modern world, a retail store needs to keep up with trends. While online shopping is the preferred method for many, there’s still something special about taking a trip into the shopping mall or high street to browse at your leisure.
Interesting Related Article: “What is E-Commerce?”