A successful bricks-and-clicks business uses its online and offline stores in tandem, with each supporting the other in a single retail strategy. Here are some of the ways that can work.
Buy Online, Pick Up in Store
Online shopping can be convenient and exciting but often fails to satisfy a customer’s desire for instant gratification. While visiting a store fills this need, it usually comes with the hassle and inconvenience of physically searching for products and standing in lines. With online ordering and in-store pickup, customers don’t have to choose between convenience and instant gratification.
Better In-Store Browsing
Customers who are used to the selection offered by online shopping are often disappointed by the limitations of brick-and-mortar stores. Retailers with limited physical space can expand their selection by supplementing the in-store experience with tablets, and scannable QR codes.
Out Of Stock Dilemma
No one wants to waste a trip to the store for a sold-out product that the website says is in stock. To prevent overselling and customer dissatisfaction, bricks-and-clicks retailers need to keep their inventory up-to-date, and consistent across all stores, online and off.
Flexible Return and Exchange Policy
When it comes to customer returns, bricks-and-clicks stores have a huge advantage. When items purchased in a physical store can be returned online and vice versa, customers have the freedom to choose the most convenient option.
How To Select An eCommerce Platform
Stunning Showrooms
Many customers prefer to view products in all their glory, in realtime before they make a purchase. To engage these customers online, retailers
should recreate this experience on their site with digital showrooms and detailed product views.
Great Discounts & Convenience
Convenience and cost are the primary reasons consumers choose online shopping. Brick-and-mortar retailers looking to drive more business to their physical locations must offer promotions, coupons, and lower prices on a regular basis.
