Finding a way to compete with online retailers is one of the biggest challenges any convenience store comes up against in the modern marketplace.
However, sometimes the techniques and marketing tactics used in the online sphere can be harnessed to a shop keeper’s advantage, bringing their store into the 21st century, as well as tidying up the way it is presented to existing and new customers.
In this article we look specifically at how working processes adopted by comparison websites online can also be harnessed offline by savvy and forward-thinking shop owners.
Be Up Front About Promotions and Deals
Nothing irks a customer quite like finding out that all is not what it seems, as an eye-catching promotion turns out to be a damp squib.
Many internet users turn to comparison websites for everything from sports tips to car insurance, precisely because the complex promotions offered by sports wagering and insurance companies are broken down into easy-to-understand language by such comparison sites. This means that sign up bonuses meant for sports fans, or tailored promo policies for classic car owners, will have their terms and conditions clearly labelled, allowing customers to shop with confidence.
Similar clear labeling can easily be implemented in a convenience store, with promos being kept as simple as possible, and ensuring that barcodes are up-to-date, so that when an item is scanned through the customer is not met with a bigger number than they were expecting.
Even a Small Product Range is Better Than No Choice at All
Many convenience stores just do not have the shelf space to compete with supermarkets when it comes to choice. Believe it or not comparison websites have a similar issue, with most users tending to opt for one of the deals or offers that rank at the top of their webpage.
What this shows is that while choice is important for customers, the most vital thing to keep in mind for a shop owner is that desirable and profitable products must be given the most prominence on visible shelves and display cabinets.
Personalization is Everything
Another thing that comparison websites and apps do well is tailoring their services for each individual customer. This starts with regular customers having online accounts, but also extends to users being able to pick and choose the services they wish to be kept abreast of.
A local shop can do the same by making a point of remembering the names of regular customers, or creating a mini newsletter that keeps the community supporting your shop that little tighter knit.
Little efforts like these are often the ones that pay the greatest dividends for small shop owners.
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