Summer; A Critical Time for the Retail Sales

Retail sales

The summer season is on the move. Therefore it is a good time for the tourist industries to flourish. On the other hand, retail sales face a great setback due to the seasonal change. But retailers should not be dispirited. That is to say, they should not think of this state as the fixed state of retail in summers. No matter if the retailers have a brick and mortar store or online; retailers can enhance their retail sales by adopting a few summer boosting techniques.   

Retail Sales demand Organizing Summer Events

Everyone loves parties. In the same vein, customers are also in for parties. Therefore retailers need to create events that will attract customers and increase retail sales. That is to say, think of summer ideas, for example, organizing pool parties, offering cold drinks, etc. Further retailers should promote their products at this event. That is to say, one of their employees can display the use of the products and inform customers about its advantages. As a result, this helps in creating brand awareness.

Secondly, it draws customers to the store. Thirdly it creates a sense of loyalty among the customers. Therefore it is beneficial if retailers hold summer parties once a month. As a result, it will help retailers expand their business and increase retail sales. Further, these summer events are great for introducing new products and getting rid of old products. However, if the customers do not buy products during the event, there are chances that they shall buy later.

Tourist Promotions; Effective way for Retail Sales

The summer season is a good season for tourists. Therefore retailers should plan their summer strategies keeping in mind the tourists. Firstly, retailers can strategize to promote their store to tourists. Secondly, they can team up with tourist companies. In other words, they can offer them discounts. Further, there are tourist agencies that cite the name of places and stores that tourists must follow. Therefore retailers should make sure that they are enlisted in the name of the stores and places that the tourists must visit. Moreover, retailers should keep their presence active on social media. It is another effective way to draw tourist attention towards the brand.  

Increase Retail Sales by Attracting Foot Traffic

 Foot traffic increases during the summer season. Therefore retailers should focus on promoting their brand where it will reach the customers’ attention. For example, one effective way to do this is to promote store products outside the store. That is to say, retailers should promote their products outdoors by placing them on tables and racks. As a result, this will draw the attention of the passers-by. Consequently, they shall visit the store to view the products. As a result, it shall help increase retail sales.

Limited Time Summer Offers

Certainly, it is the right time to offer limited products to clients. That is to say, the summer products should have a limited time offer. In short, all retailers can promote seasonal products such as t-shirts, cups, etc. Therefore retailers need to be creative and quick in implementing these limited-time offers. In other words, they should create a buzz that if the buyers will not be quick to purchase, they are more likely to lose the product.  

Hold Competitions

Certainly, customers are an integral part of the business. Therefore retailers should encourage them to take part in the making of seasonal products. That is to say, they can submit the designs that they want to see on the products. Further, those who take part in the contest should be rewarded with discounts. Consequently, this not only helps with maintaining loyalty with the brand. Further, it helps retailers get an idea about what the customers like, demand and expect from the seasonal products.

Certainly, everyone likes gifts and discounts. Therefore that is the way to persuade customers to shop. In other words, by offering them discounts and giveaways, retailers can persuade them to shop. Further, the goal is and should be to promote the brand’s name. Therefore the reward offered should be related to the store and must promote the brand. Moreover, this can be an effective way to get rid of the old and surplus inventory.

Unique Customer Experience helps with retail sales

While it is an essential part of retail, creating a unique customer experience should be more focused during the summer season. In other words, customers return to a store due to the experience that it offers. That is to say, the customers not only like the product but they also value the experience retailers offer. For example, retailers can create a nice and vibrant ambiance that enhances their shopping experience. Further retailers can offer free Wifi to their customers. Moreover, they should have a Point of Sale System that fastens the transaction process and provides convenience for the customers. These are just a few examples of how retailers can provide a unique and extraordinary experience to their customers.   

Retail Store Tips to keep Customers in Retail Store for Long

retail store tips

Retail Store Tip

Although it is better if the customers are provided with quick and hassle-free retail store experience. However, some retailers focus more on enhancing the customer experience by following an effective retail store tip. That is to say, they keep customers more in the store and make them feel like the store’s family and not as a customer who is there to purchase. That is to say, not all customers are speedy in terms of shopping. In other words, there are shoppers who want to invest their time in the store that they shop from. Therefore retailers need to know certain retail store tips that help them keep their customers stay in the store for long.  

Therefore retailers need to create such in-store experiences that encourage customers to stay in the store. In other words, the longer the customers stay in the store, the more chances are that they will buy from the store.

Retail Store Tips for Retailers to make customers stay in their store for long

The Teranoid team has come up with a few effective retail store tips that shall help retailers encourage their customers to stay in the store for long.

1ST Retail Store Tip: Create Interesting and Unique Customer Experience

Retailers should not just focus on sales. In fact, they should also allot some section of their store for creating an interesting and unique customer experience. For example, retailers can allot a section of their store for offering sample products. Further, retailers can also make a separate fun area in their store. Consequently, these fun and entertaining areas in the store will help customers enjoy some time during shopping. Therefore retailers need to think as to which ideas they can implement in the stores so that their customers are not just fascinated but also enjoy the shopping experience. Further, retailers should understand their customers and their likes more so that they have an idea about what sort of interesting experience they need to create for the customers. 

2nd Retail Store Tip: Create walls that offer Customers to take Pictures

In the modern world of social media, people are always in for capturing photographs. That is to say, people prefer visiting places that provide good opportunities and a place to take pictures. Therefore modern shoppers share their daily experiences on social media. So, when they visit stores that have decorated a section of their store specifically for photography, customers will be more than happy to visit such stores. Therefore retailers should see if they can offer similar setup to customers in their store. As a result, they shall be able to not just take pictures but will also share them on social media which in turn will promote the store.    

3rd Retail Store Tip: Educate the Customers

Retailers should educate the customers by acquainting them with the store products. For example there are makeup stores that offer samples and assistants that help them test the product. Moreover, they also educate the customers regarding relevant products and provide them with comparison as well. As a result, retailers and employees get to know the customers better while conversing with them. Further, retailers can also offer classes to their customers. As a result of the classes, there are more chances that the customers will buy the product that they are being educated with.    

4th Retail Store Tip: Serve Snacks and Beverages

Serving customers with drinks and snacks is another retail store tip to keep them stay longer in the store. However, retailers should make sure that they should not overdo when it comes to offering food and drinks to their customers. Simple drinks or juices are good enough to serve to the customers.

5th Retail Store Tip: Provide Mobile charging Facility in the Store

Another effective way to keep today’s generation engaged in the store is to provide charging stations in the store. As a result, retailers will be able to stay in their store for long. Further, the charging stations should have space for the customers to leave their phones there while they wander around. Further, this results in consumers shopping from the store while their phone is being charged. Of course, they would not just sit there and watch their phone get charged. Certainly, they would prefer to pass their time in something and the best option for them at that time will be to explore the store and its products.      

Conclusion

To conclude, there are both types of customers. Firstly those who prefer a rapid shopping experience. Secondly, those who prefer a more relaxed way to shop. Therefore retailers should be able to cater to both these types of customers. That is to say, they should create a balance between the two and satisfy both types of customers.

Retail Store Design Ideas to Increase Sales

Retail store design idea

Retail Store Design Ideas

Certainly, humans get attractive towards visuals. In other words, most part of the brain that responds to the information comes from what we see. Therefore if retailers want to get customer attention, they should make their stores visually appealing. That is to say, effective retail store design ideas count a lot. Further, if retailers are running brick and mortar stores, they should plan and implement retail store design ideas in such a way that enhances sales. This is exactly what we shall discuss below. In short, we shall discuss the retail store design ideas that retailers can implement in their stores. As a result, retailers will be able to draw customer attention to the store and its products.

Retail Store Design Ideas that Retailers can Implement

The Teranoid team has come up with certain retail store design ideas that retailers should follow to get more customer attention and provide a great environment and service to the shoppers.

“You walk into a retail store, whatever it is, and if there’s a sense of entertainment and excitement and electricity, you wanna be there.”

–Howard Schultz (Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Starbucks)

Create Extraordinary Customer Experience through effective Retail Store Design Ideas

Retail is not just about having the products in stock. Rather it is about creating an extraordinary experience for the customers. Therefore retailers should think about the experience customers would want to have, before planning retail store design ideas. Consequently, retailers shall be able to come up with such ideas that enhance the customer experience.

Store Layout

Certainly, retailers want to make their most appealing parts of the store visible to their customers. Therefore retailers need to make sure that they know the route customers will take when they enter the store. Consequently, retailers will be able to plan their store design strategy accordingly. Moreover, retailers should make their own strategies to lead the customer traffic the way retailers have planned their store layout. In addition, retailers should invest in foot traffic tools. As a result, they shall be able to know how customers move in the store and which areas grab their attention more.

Successful Retail Store Design Ideas include not overstocking the Entrance Area

Retailers should try to avoid placing loads of products at the entrance. That is to say, retailers should give customers some time to be comfortable after entering the store. Therefore placing many products at the entrance of the store becomes unnoticeable by the customers in most cases. However, retailers should place a few products at the entrance. Further retailers should place the shopping baskets and carts ahead of the decompression zone.      

In-store Breaks

There is a possibility that the customers will skip some areas of the store in case the retail store has similar-looking aisles and racks. Moreover, long aisles are not an ideal situation for retailers to implement in the stores. Therefore retailers should implement visual breaks between the aisles. These breaks shall vary from retailer to retailer. For example, retailers can have displays, signboards, touch screens that educate customers in some way, etc. Consequently, these store breaks attract the customers and keep them away from boredom and getting tired. Therefore retailers should try to implement such breaks in their stores. Consequently, this helps customers to view products more attentively.   

Central Point in Stores

Certainly, it seems ideal that the customer attention is drawn towards all the products of the store. However, it is important that there should be one focal point in the store. Consequently, it draws customers more towards the product and the store. Therefore retailers should try to implement focal points in their store. Hence, retailers should pick one aspect of the store that they need to draw customer attention towards. Therefore retailers should have one focal point in mind before designing the retail store layout.

That is to say, retailers should think of one of the areas of the store as their focal point. Further, they should arrange the lights and other products that help focus on this central point. Consequently, it will help in drawing customer attention towards the focused products. Moreover, once they get their attention, there are high chances that they shall check the items placed around the focal point.

Retail Store Design Ideas include creating Enough Space for Customers to Walk

Certainly, retailers should keep adequate space for the customers so that they walk freely. In other words, the store space should not be such that customers find it difficult to move around in the store. Further, there is a high possibility that shoppers instantly stop buying once they are bumped from behind. Consequently, this results in losing customers and sales. Therefore what retailers can do is tidy up the spaces that are assembled roughly. Further, they should adequate room for the customers so that they shop easily and without distractions and disturbances.

Moreover, this encourages customers to appreciate the products because they are not disturbed by any other factor. In addition, this makes customers think highly of the store because of its successful planning, organization, and implementation.

The Advancement in the POS System Features & its Impact on Businesses

POS system features

Certainly the Point Of Sale System is very effective when it comes to advancement. However, with the passing time, the POS System Features are advancing more. In other words, the Point of Sale System is progressing immensely. That is to say, it is providing convenience and flexibility to retailers worldwide. In short, the POS system features have drastically changed the business world. To clarify, it has supported the businesses immensely. Most importantly, from cash registers to iPad and Mobile POS Systems. This huge transition in the business world has not just helped businesses with various enhanced POS system features, but it has also helped them to keep their transactions and records in one place.  

Enhanced POS System Features

The Point of Sale System manages business operations online. Because of online business processing, businesses have the potential to grow rapidly due to the quick processing of operations. Further, businesses can simply automate their operations. That is to say, instead of importing the data on to the spreadsheet, they can save their time by automating operations.

Point of sale System comes with a sales tracking feature of online and offline transactions. Further the modern POS System features help manage the financial record and the inventory information under a single unit. Consequently, this helps retailers manage their customer and sales information as well as the product information simultaneously. In other words, businesses do not have to go through various reports on separate systems.   

Mobile POS System Feature

Due to the modern age, the majority of the customers do not use cash. That is to say, they use credit cards and other cashless modes of payments. According to Finance Magnates, the use of cash will be extremely less till 2025. To clarify 75% of consumers will use cashless payment modes instead of cash. Therefore based on this statistic, businesses should consider implementing mobile payments.

It is through mobile payments that the employees can accept the payment of customers just through the use of an internet connection. Moreover, this gives customers the freedom to pay through their choice of payment mode. However, businesses do not need extra and heavy machinery for this. Further, it does not require extensive customer training. To clarify, it simply needs a card reader device. Moreover, there are options through which the customers can pay directly from their mobiles. As a result, this has immensely simplified the payment methods for customers.       

How POS System Features Manage Customers Effectively

CRM integration is one of the most effective POS system features that modern POS Systems are offering. Further, the previous POS Systems could only give information based on customer behavior. On the other hand, the modern POS Systems offer retailers and business owners to see which customers are the most loyal and are giving maximum sales to the business. Further, this feature allows businesses to keep customer details, purchase history and make market strategies accordingly. Consequently, this greatly helps in improving customer relations.

Big Data

Big data is not just for big companies. That is to say, small businesses today have easy access to big data through their POS systems. Moreover, it is one of the most effective POS system features that it allows businesses to get valuable information from POS transactions. As a result, this helps businesses make effective business decisions. Modern POS System comes with effective features such as data reporting that helps business owners understand the progress of the business. Further, it helps make future strategies to further enhance the business proceedings.       

Enhanced Security POS system Feature

Because of continuous growth in the technological field, the security feature of the Point of sale System also requires growth and advancement, most importantly in its security feature. Due to IoT (Internet of Things) connectivity of the Point of sale system with the other devices has become mandatory. However, it is due to the IoT, that these systems are becoming more prone to hacks and breaches. Therefore there is a continuous threat that the point of sale system can be easily hacked. Hence, it is important that business owners secure their business and customer data.

Further, they should be able to combat security threats. Therefore for this purpose, businesses should keep updating their Point of sale systems with the latest updates. Secondly, they should have strong passwords, antivirus programs and should be able to detect any unauthorized activity. In addition, they should limit their POS access so that even the employees are not able to access the POS System except for processing client purchases. Moreover, the POS System should ensure the security of the customer data as well.               

Conclusion

Certainly, POS Systems are supporting the business industry immensely. That is to say, in restaurants they allow users to search menu items, process orders online, track the menu items that are selling well and also keep employee records. These are just a few of the features that the POS System is offering to the restaurants. However, the POS System offers several other enhanced and helpful features for all types of businesses. Further, it is impacting the entire business world more and more with its continuous advancement.    

How to build Retail Customer Loyalty?

Customer Loyalty

Customer Loyalty?

Certainly, retailers want that their customers are happy with their brand and services. Further, they also expect and want that the customers return to their store and buy again. Therefore customer loyalty is very effective for retailers and their businesses. In other words, it is easy for the employees and retailers to sell to the loyal customers. Moreover, in case the customers really like a brand, there are chances that they shall recommend the brand to other people. But how can retailers build retail customer loyalty? Loyalty Programs is one of the ways through which retailers can build customer loyalty amongst their customers. However, this is only a component of the entire retail customer loyalty procedure. In short, retail customer loyalty stems from having real and cordial retail customer relations. Below we shall discuss how retailers can build these effective relations with their customers.

Retail Customer Loyalty demands knowing the Customer  

Certainly retailers need to understand the type of customer they are catering to. That is to say, customers are loyal to such brands that understand their needs and wants. Therefore retailers need to make sure that their brand is satisfying customers and fulfills their demands and needs. So, the language of the brand should speak to the customers and show how much they care for their needs. Moreover, the store should contain such products that the customers can relate to.

So, achieving this requires knowing well the target audience. Therefore retailers should try to get to know their target customers as much as they can. As a result, retailers shall be able to create the best marketing strategies. Secondly they shall know which products to keep in the store.

Being Socially Active is essential for Retail Customer Loyalty

CSR counts a lot when it comes to attracting people and building customer loyalty. In the same vein, retail customers are attracted to companies that indulge in social activities. Therefore retail companies should be kind and have a good and meaningful purpose apart from just selling. However, companies who want to create customer loyalty through CSR do not necessarily have to be over the top to be socially active. That is to say, retailers can be simply humble and decent with their services. In other words, retailers should implement practices such as decency and morality in their stores. For example, there are brands that lose their reputation because of indecent activities in their stores or offices, such as harassment, immodest and bad behavior etc. As a result, these companies face loss of customers. Consequently, they are not able to build Retail Customer Loyalty.

“If people believe they share values with a company, they will stay loyal to the brand.” 

– Howard Schultz

Uniqueness is essential to build Customers Loyalty

Certainly the company should have a unique face and voice. That is to say, if retailers will be the same as the other companies in the store, they shall not be able to make a mark on the customers. Therefore retailers should ensure that they recognize their unique traits and enhance them further. Moreover, they should use their uniqueness to build retail customer loyalty.        

Adopt the Omni channel practice to build Customer Loyalty

Exceptional retail experiences also constitute in building retail customer loyalty. That is to say, when customers are provided with good customer experience they return to the store more often. Further there is also high chance that these customers will talk about their experience with other people.

So retailers need to understand the ways through which the customers shop. That is to say, in today’s world, customers prefer buying through various channels. Further the mode to buying has also changed. To clarify, there is also great possibility that customers prefer buying online. As a result, retailers should implement omnichannel strategy in their store. In other words, retailers should keep their presence active on all social media channels. As a result, it will give customers the choice to buy from their desired mode. Moreover, it shall become a way to increase sales and build retail customer loyalty.

Customer Loyalty and Rewards Programs

Certainly the loyalty programs are one of the most significant components in building retail customer loyalty. That is to say, the brands that have loyalty programs for their customers are more likely to receive their customers more often. Therefore retailers should keep in mind a few aspects that shall help them build effective retail customer loyalty programs.

Digital Loyalty Programs

Firstly retailers should try to eliminate loyalty cards. In other words, they should try to make digital loyalty program options for example, POS based loyalty programs and mobile based loyalty programs. To clarify, retailers should implement loyalty through their POS Systems. As a result, it shall provide convenience to the customers and create loyalty amongst them.           

To conclude, retailers need to provide extraordinary customer service to their customers every time. This shall eventually build loyalty amongst the customers for the brand. 

“Every contact we have with a customer influences whether or not they’ll come back. We have to be great every time or we’ll lose them.” 

– Kevin Stirtz

Retail Business Ideas for Beginners

Retail Business Ideas

Retailers must be aware of the retail apocalypse. Further, it is expected that the brick and mortar stores will face a setback and the e-commerce will rule the retail world. However, while online shopping is popular, brick and mortar shopping too is not completely diminishing anytime soon. Therefore the industry has a lot of retail business ideas for retailers who plan to do their business in time. So, for those who are planning to enter the retail world, it is the right time to do so.

Retail Business Ideas

Certainly the best ideas for businesses come from exploring ones interests and passion. Further, market demands also help beginners in choosing the right business for themselves. In short, a good business should be such that caters to the requirements of the customers. Further it is essential that it is of interest for the business owner as well. Therefore the Teranoid team has come up with several retail business ideas that shall help newcomers adopt and get new retail business ideas.

Unique Retail business Ideas

In case retailers are confused as to which business to begin with, they can try combining two products together. For example, having a combined piercing and jewelry store. Moreover, there can be several other such ideas that help cater to different types of people simultaneously.

Retail Business Idea: Men’s Salon and Spas

The male grooming industry is expanding rapidly and is expected to grow more in the coming years. A good idea for retailers is to provide an exceptional experience in their salons and spas. Further retailers can offer grooming and consultation services. Moreover, retailers can offer their clients to touch and smell the products that they intend to use on the customers.

Health Industry retail business idea

This is another productive idea when it comes to opening a retail business. That is to say, people care about their wellness and health. Therefore they do not hesitate in investing money on health. For example, gym memberships, tourism etc. Therefore retailers can adopt a business that provides health related products or services to people. Moreover retailers can also prove how their products and services are different from their competitors and how they care about the clients’ health and wellness.

Mobile Food Trucks

Mobile food trucks require less investment as compared to opening a restaurant. Further this business is highly popular and is increasing to make its mark. Moreover, it can cater to wide range of people belonging to various areas because of its mobility feature. In addition, another benefit of food trucks is that it is not restricted to one place or area. That is to say, if the business does not do well in one area, they can always change their location and see which areas respond to their business more.  

Mobile Boutiques

Mobile clothing boutiques is another good option for retailers. Just as mobile food trucks are popular and doing well, in the same vein the mobile clothing boutique can also be as effective as the mobile food industry.

Turn online store to physical stores

Retailers who already have an online business have the opportunity to expand their business by having a physical store. Therefore retailers first need to analyze the area that has their maximum amount of customers. Further, retailers also need to analyze the availability and response of brick and mortar stores in that area. However, if retailers are doubtful to take this huge step, they can first try pop up retail. 

Feminist related Business Ideas

Companies and brands that support a social cause are more popular among consumers. That is to say, customers are more loyal and develop trust easily with companies that they can relate to and that are involved in meaningful causes. In today’s world, the feminist brands are gaining popularity. People generally are quite emotional regarding feminism. Therefore they are also very active when it comes to supporting such causes.

Retail Business Idea to have Unique Products

Certainly, consumers are in look for unique products. Therefore if beginners have any such ideas, it is the ideal situation for them. Further, the brick and mortar stores have the perfect space and displays to showcase these products. Consequently, consumers are attracted towards these special and distinctive products.

Having a Business Partner is Beneficial

It is beneficial and affective that retailers should have a business partner before they plan to start their setup. Further there are fears and confusions involved regarding the new business. Therefore having a retail partner greatly helps with handling difficult tasks. Moreover, there shall be more brain power which consequently shall help gain more powerful and productive ideas.       

“The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity.” ― Amelia Earhart

How To Manage Retail Operations Effectively?

retail operations

Retail store managers have a great responsibility. That is to say, the handling of the entire retail store is dependent on retail store managers. Therefore having effective retail operations is an art. That is to say, they play a significant role in the successful running of the business. Because of business expansion, there are many retail operations that the managers have to deal with. In this article, we shall discuss how retailers and managers can effectively manage and control retail operations.  

Retail operations require motivating the Staff foremost

One of the most important retail operations is to manage the retail staff effectively. That is to say, it requires motivation and encouragement for employees. Moreover, this is very significant because of the high turnover rate in retail. So, retail store managers can play a productive role in reducing the number of turnovers.

Recruitment process

Therefore firstly managers should be wise while recruiting the retail staff. Consequently, retailers will not have to face employee turnovers at a later stage. Therefore, retailer should make sure that the employees they are hiring are perfect for the business and its environment. Further retailers should analyze the potential of the employees they are hiring and whether they shall be able to handle challenging work situations.     

Onboarding

Secondly, retailers need to ensure that after the recruitment process, the retailers must ensure that the employees are working effectively. Further, the retailers should train their employees regarding effective management of retail operations. For example, training employees on sales and managing displays and products. Further, if retailers are using technology in their stores, they should train their employees on how to use it. For example, training them to effectively use a POS System.  

Managing Retail Operations

Retailers and managers need to continue to monitor the staff. That is to say, retailers should engage with the staff more even after their recruitment process. For example, they can set goals and receive continuous updates from employees about the status of goals.   

Retail operations also include managing your staff well. By that, we mean listening to them and make them comfortable in their workplace. In other words, see if the staff has any problems. Further, managers should also encourage them and listen to their ideas and suggestions. Moreover, retailers should recognize the employees’ strengths and weaknesses and should treat them accordingly.

Running Smooth Retail Operations

One of the most significant ways to run smooth retail operations is to stay in stock. That is to say, reducing shrinkage and taking loss prevention measures in time highly affects the smooth running of retail operations.

Preventing Theft and Robbery

This is one of the significant causes of losing sales. Therefore managers should implement effective security measures that help in managing theft issues. For this purpose, retailers can use anti-theft devices, effectively handle robberies and theft and several other activities that help mangers run their retail operations smoothly by handling theft and shoplifting.

Use the Right Tools for effective running of Retail Operations

Many of the retail operations issues can be resolved by choosing the right tools for business. That is to say, retailers should choose the right inventory management software and POS System. Consequently, this affects the smooth running of the business. Further managers need to keep a record of the items that are popular are selling fats through their POS System. Moreover, they can plan marketing strategies that help create brand awareness and boost sales. With the help of advanced gadgets, retailers and managers no more need to calculate data and do processing manually.        

The managers should be skillful and active because the entire retail operation depend upon their credibility and the ability to control the store effectively.

“Today, people in loss prevention need to have skills in finance, inventory control, accounting. They really need to understand the retail operations thoroughly.”

–Paul Lang  

The Art of Handling Theft in Retail

theft protection

Theft and robberies can occur anywhere. That is to say, robberies can occur unexpectedly at any time. Therefore it is essential that retailers should keep enhancing their security plans and gadgets for theft protection. As a result, they shall be able to handle theft protection effectively. In this article, we shall acquaint retailers with helpful tips so that they can efficiently handle emergency theft and robbery situations.

Theft Protection requires Preventing Armed Robbers

Certainly, the best way to handle armed robbers is to try to prevent them in the first place. Robbers take the risk of theft because for them the outcome is quite beneficial. Therefore, by implementing ways that can increase the chances of being caught and decrease the possibility of profitable outcomes for them is effective. How can retailers implement it? Therefore, let’s see how we can implement theft protection strategies effectively.

For Theft Protection Retailers need to Be Aware & Vigilant

There are specific timings during the day when robberies take place. For example, these timings might include closing hours and intervals. In other words, closing hours are most crucial because that is the time when a large amount of cash is easily accessible. Further, lunch breaks and intervals are also significant because, during that time, people are either away or busy. That is the perfect time for theft to take place. Moreover, the holiday season is a major time that allows robberies to take place. In other words, the salespersons are busy due to large crowds. Moreover, cash is also in huge amounts. Therefore it is the ideal situation for robbers to break into the stores.

Therefore, retailers need to take preventive measures that help with theft protection. For example, they can take extra care at the opening and closing time of the store. That is to say, they can increase the number of employees and guards during the closing hours. Firstly, they can inspect any suspicious activities. Secondly, they need to ensure that nobody is hiding in the store when they close it.

Handling Cash Effectively

Certainly, robbers are in search of cash. Therefore retailers need to take such preventive measures that secure their cash. For example, retailers should avoid keeping extra amounts of money in stores. That is to say, they should keep the extra amount of money in the safe or somewhere else that is secure such as banks. Secondly, retailers need to be careful while going to the banks. That is to say, they can change their routes. Further, they can change their timings as well.

An effective way to avoid employee theft is to limit the POS system access of the employees to only necessary tasks. That is to say, retailers can use employee cards and pins, analyze and monitor cash details, etc.

Improve Store Visibility; a Theft Protection strategy

Improve the visibility of the entrance and exit areas for theft protection. Further retailers can make visible the checkout areas as well. Therefore retailers can prevent placing signs that block the view. Moreover, retailers can use cameras that monitor the activity of the entire store and consumers. As a result, it will help retailers view the areas of the store that otherwise are not visible. In addition, the implementation of good lighting is also mandatory because darkness and low lighting are one of the main causes of burglary and theft.         

How to behave if theft takes place in the Retail Store

In case the robbers have broken into the store, act calmly. That is to say, retailers should not resist. Robberies are mostly armed therefore do not take the risk of putting the lives of customers and employees in danger. Secondly, retailers should avoid making sudden movements because this can result in dangerous and life-threatening outcomes. Thirdly, retailers can activate security alarms if possible. Moreover, retailers or cashiers should not retaliate and instead give them the money. Certainly, it is difficult to remain composed at that time, but retailers need to notice the robbers. In other words, they should notify their physical appearance and the way they look.

Another important tip for theft protection is to inform the police as soon as the robbers leave the store. Further, inform the police of the time when the robbers have left the store. Moreover, provide them with the details of the robbers and their vehicle. Last of all, do not touch the things that the robbers have touched as this shall help the police detect the robbers.     

Flash Mob Robbery

Ever heard of the term? Well, it means robbers entering into a store in the form of a mob. Consequently, it becomes easier for them to intimidate the employees and gather the products as quickly as possible. Flash mobs can be really powerful because they are huge in numbers. Certainly, no one can handle and retaliate against large groups of people. Moreover, it also happens at times that the robbery is performed unnoticed.

How to handle Flash mob Robbery

Retailers need to inform the law authorities as soon as they see large groups of people close to their store or even at other places. Social media can also be another way to detect these activities. That is to say, be aware when someone mentions the name of your retail store. Retailers should ensure that their employees are everywhere in the store. Further, they should be vigilant and alert. But, do not fight back and indulge in violence because this will result in negative and harmful situations. Instead, the customers, as well as the employees, should stay quiet and to one side of the store.

Conclusion

Certainly, it is not an ideal situation and no one wants to face theft in their stores. However, retailers should be prepared for such situations because they can occur anywhere anytime. If retailers face such a situation, they would certainly not want to be caught unprepared and unequipped. Therefore, retailers need to be active, vigilant and well prepared for such situations.   

Managing Effective Customer Service in Retail

customer service

One of the most effective ways that impact the in-store experience is retail customer service. That is to say, the way the brand treats its customers directly impacts the sales. In other words, the brand’s name and reputation greatly depend on the way the retail customer service that the company delivers. Therefore when it comes to dealing with customers, the retailers and their employees are entirely responsible for it. That is to say, it is in the hands of the retailers to either increase their customers or make their already existing customers loyal and long-lasting. Therefore, retailers should try their best to implement ways that enhance the retail customer service.

How to Enhance Retail Customer Service

In this article, we shall discuss the ways that shall help retailers enhance their retail customer service.  

Effective Retail Customer Service requires Acknowledging Customers

Certainly, it is the retailers’ duty that the customers should leave the store satisfied and delighted. Further retailer must appreciate their frequent customers because they are the ones who give the most profit to the company. Therefore not commending and warmly welcoming them would be irresponsible and irrational on the part of retailers. Therefore retailers should let their regular customers know how grateful and delighted they are to receive them again.

What retailers can do to serve customers better is to save their details. That is to say, they should invest in such technology that helps them enhance customer service. For example, CRM systems, POS Systems, etc. These are the technological gadgets that help secure the customers information such as name, contact details, history of their purchase, etc. As a result, retailers will be able to use these details for their benefit. That is to say, retailers will utilize this information to deal with customers more efficiently. Further retailers can send thank you notes to their customers and acknowledge them for their purchase.

Educate Customers to implement better Retail Customer Service

Upselling is another effective customer service way. However, generally, it is believed that it is not a useful technique. However, if it is used effectively, it is very beneficial. In other words, if the employees educate the customers before they purchase the product, it not only results in better sales but also customer satisfaction and delight. Therefore retailers should train their associates to upsell and cross in the right and most effective way. In other words, they should attend each customer with full attention and see which customers demand help. As a result, they can upsell and cross products. Moreover, it should not simply mean that the salesperson is promoting their product. In fact, the employee should make sure that their aim is to educate the customers and not promote the product.     

Greet & Welcome Retail Customers Politely

Customer service begins as soon as the customers enter the store. Therefore retailers should begin their customer service by greeting their customers right there. That is to say, they should welcome their customers warmly and politely. In other words, if the salesperson selects their greeting words wisely, it can do great wonders for the customers. For example, the salesperson can offer to relax the customers by taking their shopping bags and placing them on the counter. As a result, customers will feel special. Therefore retailers can practice new and effective greeting messages for their customers and start implementing them in their store.

Help Retail Customers beyond Shopping

The customers can be moody at times. That is to say, they may be facing a rough day. Therefore employees can try to cheer them up in case they find someone down and low. This does not mean doing something great. In short, it means simply giving customers a smile. Moreover, retailers can crack jokes or cheer them up in some way. Not all customers are the same. Therefore it depends on the customer to customer as to how they need help apart from shopping. For example, they can help customers in attending their children while they shop freely.      

Effective Retail Customer Service can get affected due to Stock Out Situations

The salesperson can deal with the stock out situations successfully if they know how to manage the situation effectively. Therefore retailers should have a backup plan for the stock-outs. That is to say, if customers ask for a product that is unavailable, the salesperson should not discourage them by simply informing them about the unavailability of the product. Instead, they should give them a substitute option that is better and more useful. As a result, retailers will not lose their sales and customers disappointed. Also, in case of an online store, retailers can check with other stores. Further, they can check the warehouse for the product and then ship it to them at their location.

Conclusion

By effective retail customer service, we mean meeting the demands of the customers in time. However, the retail customer service involves several other factors, depending mainly on the customers and their demands and temperament. In short, the salespersons should receive the customers warmly and fulfill their demands and needs. Consequently, it makes customers happy and satisfied. As a result, they are pleased with the brand and ensure to stay loyal with it.