Retail Dude

Well the time of the year for which every retailer (no matter big or small) awaits eagerly is finally here. And how!!! Amidst all the terror threats, protests from the small store owners et al unwelcomed circumstances the organized players still look ‘bullish on the festive sales’. I believe it’s not just the big retailers who are sanguine up for the festivities in the air. Even the traditional retailers would like to cash in as much as possible in the days to come. In order to take the modern players head on here are a few tips which might come handy for such stores

Ø The Visuals – Looks Can Kill – And of course, bring you back to life (that is if your store has been facing a hard time in attracting and retaining customers). Though it is not advisable to overspend on your store décor, but who said only expensive looks good. Simple things like improving the store lighting, keeping the aisles clear and unblocked, and arranging a merchandise in a manner in which it is convenient to locate, is sufficient. Another useful advice would be making your salesperson dress in a more presentable manner and if there is no particular uniform then probably carrying a tag which say “How can I help you?” or “Allow me to make shopping easier for you” would sufficient to make your customers leave your store with a smile.

Ø Innovative & festival-centric services – Customers are more tempted to shop at stores where they find services which suit the occasion. For instance, around the time of Diwali offering a box of chocolates on every purchase (depending on the amount spent by the customer) or any other sweet would ensure a good word-of-mouth publicity along with more sales. Also it would give out a signal to your competitors that you are prepared for the occasion.

Ø Coming up with a shopping theme for your store – It’s not as hard as it looks. In fact one of the simplest things that can differentiate you from the clutter. In case, you are not as innovative, you can bank upon the mythology of the reason for which the festival is being celebrated and it is sure to give you a bunch of ideas.

Ø The Music – Please don’t stop the music. But, at the same time ensure that it makes the customers spend more time at the store, which in direct proportion to how much spend. Loud music with a lot of beats is not advisable as it could lead to customers spending less time in retail outlets, which could prove detrimental to sale figures.

Ø Connect emotionally with your customers – Touch the emotional chord. And, who better could execute this other than the traditional retailers. With long history of implausible relations with the customers, it is the easiest thing to ensure that the customers spend more than they actually intended to. Simply having a donation box at the cash till or having customers donate their old goods for a strong cause (for instance flood victims) and in return providing discount on a new merchandise (which you were anyway planning to give) is sure to do the trick.

Still not convinced. Try them and you will know.

- Vivin

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