Running a retail store, restaurant or other customer-facing business in the twenty-first century is no easy feat. Yes, if you’re a popular brand, then you’re most likely more concerned with the success of your online store, as that’s where many regular and potential customers are flocking for ease of purchase. However, for many small businesses, and big businesses, to some extent, a physical store still holds a great purpose.
There are still many who prefer the experience of a real-life shop, and putting your store in the real world serves as an additional line of marketing, so there are always advantages to doing so. However, there are disadvantages to letting your store become outdated or lacklustre, whether you’re a big brand who cares more about the potential of the internet for retail, or perhaps even a small café owner, who believes that quirky design is in right now. Aesthetically, that’s true, but it doesn’t mean you can’t enter the modern era with the service and products you provide, whether you’re in the retail or the food industry. Here’s some advice for modernising your store and turning it from a chore into… slightly less of a bore. You’ll feel better afterwards. I promise.
The beauty of modern technology.
The glitz and glamour of the newest devices and pieces of tech on the market aren’t just fun gadgets to have at home or show off to your friends; they’re genuinely useful tools in numerous industries. New payment technology, for example, has been transforming retail and food businesses for a few years, and, if you’re not using the latest and greatest in payment devices, then you’re missing out. By that, I mean you’re missing out on customers, not just the contactless, smartphone and credit card technology available.
Devices and software are always evolving, so make sure you stay ahead of the game, rather than falling to the back of the pack. Update your technology when a better method comes along, because this makes things easier for you and your staff, as well as for your customers. Companies such as NFC Direct offer solutions through software geared to such payment technology.
Improve the aesthetic of the place.
I know I said that retro and quirky designs can work well for a quaint little restaurant, or an edgy, new retail store, but that’s only if this style is executed to great effect. The key is to be intentional and contemporary with every last detail. Your store or diner can’t look “different” by virtue of it being old and outdated. The stylistic choices must be well-considered and, as I said, intentional.
You need an enticing storefront, first of all. If you’re a retail store, this means something eye-catching in the way of the best clothes in your store or some new deal you’re running on the winter range, for example. In the case of a restaurant, an enticing window display usually requires some form of enticing item on the menu; perhaps your special meals for the day.
Whatever the case, any store in the present age must impress through customer service and great products, but it must also impress through professionalism and a well-designed physical store. People subconsciously judge, and they’ll certainly judge a store which looks neglected in terms of modernity.
