So you already have a successful online store. You can multiply your earnings by opening a brick-and-mortar store, as well. Now that the Covid-19 vaccines have been widely rolled out, more people are going out to shop. They may not be ready to return to pre-pandemic levels, but they are out and about more.
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Make Your Physical Store Click
If you’re thinking of opening a brick-and-mortar store, here are some tips to help you be successful.
1. Do your research.
Ensure there’s a demand for your products in the area where you want to open your store. Look at the site’s demographics and whether your target market is present.
2. Find the right location.
The location of your store is vital for foot traffic and visibility. You want to be in an area convenient for your target customers and where they are likely to shop.
3. Negotiate your lease.
Once you’ve found a few potential locations, negotiate with the landlord for the best terms. Be sure to get everything in writing.
4. Ensure that your signage is eye-catching.
Your store’s signage should be visible from a distance and attract customers to come in. Its design should reflect the personality of your brand. Consider using customized laser-cut metals for a modern touch. That will also be durable and will last many years.
5. Create a floor plan.
You should design your store layout to maximize sales and customer satisfaction. Flow is essential and makes sure customers can find what they’re looking for easily. Displays should make it easy for customers to handle the merchandise. After all, this is the advantage of the physical store over your online store.
6. Invest in good lighting.
Proper lighting makes your products look more appealing and can help increase sales. It also makes your store look more inviting and safe.
7. Have a comfortable waiting area.
If your store is likely to have customers waiting, make sure they are comfortable by providing seating and possibly a TV or other entertainment.
8. Play music.
Studies have shown that playing music in stores can increase sales. Make sure the pieces you choose are appropriate for your store and won’t annoy your customers.
9. Keep the store clean and organized.
A tidy store will give customers a positive impression of your business and make them want to return.
10. Train your employees.
Your employees are the face of your business, so it’s essential to train them well. They should be knowledgeable about your products and provide excellent customer service by assisting customers in finding what they need. They should also be friendly and personable.
11. Promote your store online.
Make sure your physical store is promoted on your online store, including all the information customers need to know, such as your hours and location. Use social media to promote your physical store’s sales and special events. Have a contest on social media. Offer prizes for the best posts about your store or the most creative photos of your products.
“That will entice them to visit your store and make a purchase. It’s also a good idea to use your online presence to promote this kind of event. You can embed countdown clock on website to count the time left to the shop opening or to the end of the opening sale.”
12. Have a grand opening.
A grand opening is a great way to generate buzz for your new store. Have some fun with it and make it an event that people will remember.
13. Offer discounts and coupons.
Give customers discounts and coupons exclusive to your physical store. That will entice them to visit your store and make a purchase.
14. Give away freebies.
Who doesn’t love free stuff? Giving away freebies is a great way to attract customers to your store and get them interested in your products.
15. Create a loyalty program.
Loyalty programs are a great way to encourage customers to keep coming back. Create a loyalty program that rewards customers for patronizing your online and physical stores.
16. Have a sales contest among your staff.
Sales contests are a great way to motivate your employees and generate more sales. Offer prizes for the top sellers, such as gift cards or paid time off.
17. Have special events.
Special events, such as meet-and-greets with local celebrities or artists, can help bring people into your store. That is something that your physical store can offer that your online store cannot.
18. Sponsor community events.
Sponsoring community events is a great way to get the brand of both your online and physical stores out there. It’s also a way to give back to the community.
19. Advertise in local publications.
Advertising in local publications is a great way to reach potential customers who may not be aware of your store. Make sure your ad stands out and includes your business hours and location.
20. Collaborate with other businesses.
Collaborating with other businesses, such as hosting joint events or promoting each other’s products, is a great way to reach new customers and generate more business. Another great way to promote your store is by placing flyers in local businesses that your target customers are likely to visit, such as restaurants and cafes.
21. Go door-to-door in the neighborhood.
A more personal way to promote your store is by going door-to-door in the neighborhood and handing out flyers. That is a great way to get to potential customers you may not reach through other methods.
Expand to a Physical Store Now
As you can see, a physical store is an integral part of any successful business. It’s where people can get hands-on experience with your products and speak to someone about their needs or concerns. If you have an online store but don’t yet have a brick-and-mortar location, it may be time to start scouting locations for one! Your customers will thank you.
