Opening up a retail shop can be a confusing process. The retail space is getting more and more difficult by the day; the obvious online competition makes retail stores the less popular choice in terms of convenience and accessibility. The good news is that there is still plenty of space for retail to shine. Retail stores are becoming more and more popular for big brands because of their ability to offer an interactive experience to their customers. Here’s four of the most important tips when it comes to opening up a retail space in 2020.

 

Branding

Retail stores aren’t just a place for your customers to purchase your products — they should be able to do that online already. Rather, they’re a touchpoint for your customers to access everything that’s good about your brand.

Retail stores should become immersive experiences that offer a unique value to your customers that the online experience simply can’t. For instance, stores like the Art of Shaving offer tutorials on shaving with straight razors, as well as product samples and demonstrations. Some fine bespoke suit companies offer a glass of whiskey while you are being fitted for your suit. Your store should have a unique experience to offer your customers.

Stores that make visiting them a whole experience tend to stay in business the longest. Take that into consideration when setting up your shop.

Take advantage of social media when it comes to branding. This is where you really have the ability to create your store’s brand. This is how most people will identify you and will make your first impression. Social media is becoming a more common way for branding and marketing in today’s world.

 

Employee Retention

You should pay your employees well. If you don’t want to be just another mediocre store, then you should hire talent that can bring that vision to life. The only way to ensure that is to set a high value for the performance of your employees.

Treat your employees right by giving them perks. Offer a generous employee discount and keep morale high by integrating employee parties and activities.

Employee retention will ultimately help cut costs of running your retail shop. In the long run, it will play a large role in keeping you in business.

 

Online Integration

The online sphere should be seamlessly integrated with the retail space. Kiosks where customers can test out a physical product and then order a customized version online are one viable option.

Especially during this time, offering an online shopping experience is important. This will help you bring in more sales and reach a larger customer base. It offers a much more convenient way of shopping when people prefer staying at home amidst COVID-19.

 

Promotions and Events

Your store should be a place where your customers are comfortable spending leisure time. Urban Outfitters creates this by creating a specific aesthetic complete with good lighting and seating throughout the store. Starbucks is more than a place to get coffee because it was designed to be a meeting place.

If you have an eco-friendly shop, which are becoming more popular, show how you source your materials, like marine recovered ocean plastic material yarn. This will be interesting to your customers and also add an element of transparency.

Workshops are also a viable option. They are especially good ideas for craft stores or if you include specialty foods in your shop.

Make sure that your retail store is worth going to. Don’t be afraid to take risks and be unique in your choice of visual design and store layout. Risks make a successful company. Staying safe can keep you from dominating the market.

 

 

 

Emma Sturgis is a freelance writer based out of Boston, MA. She writes most often on health and education. When not writing, she enjoys reading and watching film noir. Say hi on Twitter @EmmaSturgis2