Everyone is shopping online, the downtown area is dying out – and pandemics and supply
bottlenecks are the straw that breaks the camel’s back. Will you be forced to close your business?
Certainly not. At least, not if you prepare and adapt to the trends in the retail market. Then your
sales can still grow despite all the crises.
Fortunately, GALA knows all the latest scientific studies. Here are the results that you would do
best to put into action now .
7 Current Trends in Retail
Studies say: These new megatrends are gaining in importance.
#1 Online and Offline Connect
Online shopping is on the up, traditional offline shopping is in decline. But why choose only one? Brands that sell both online and in-store have the brightest future ahead of them. Because when
done right, both channels benefit from one another rather than harm one another.
What you should do now:
Set up a click & collect system where customers can order online and pick up their delivery in your store.Launch virtual events like live stream shopping or guide your customers through your store using AR and VR. Add QR codes to your products: Customers who are not quite ready to make a purchase can use it to save it to their cart in your online store, instead of looking elsewhere among the competition.
#2 Digital Technologies Support the Retail Trade
Repetitive tasks? Adieu. Stressed out staff? No more. Contrary to what many people think, digital development offers many an opportunity, especially for the retail sector.
What you should do now:
Automate your warehouse and logistics to optimize processes.
Install a self-checkout system to reduce the burden on your employees.Adjust your prices to the current level of buying interest and your stock. Monitor customer attitudes using a survey screen at the store exit. ℹ️ Read our article on POS marketing here.
#3 The Downtown Area Is Not Dying Out
It has been predicted for years that downtown areas are dying out. That is correct – but only for those who fail to adapt to consumer needs. To avoid becoming one of them, you should introduce new concepts.
What you should do now:
Offer your customers services they don’t get on the Internet: Custom-made products, a personal service, and the like. Hold events to attract customers to your store: Pop-up assortment, live music, Christmas parties. Seek opportunities outside your own store: go to trade fairs, street markets or cooperate with other stores in your area.
#4 Sustainability Is a Factor in the Future
Nowadays, lots of customers only buy from environmentally conscious companies. Your attitude towards our planet also plays an important role for job candidates.
What you should do now:
Go for recycled raw materials in your next store makeover. Create a plan to reduce waste. Measure and reduce your energy consumption.
#5 Staff Expectations Are on the Increase
Your staff don’t just want to earn enough money in the future. In fact, other aspects of the job are coming into focus: first and foremost, flexibility and a workplace that is conducive to good health.
What you should do now:
- Test new models of working like the 4-day work week.
- Streamline workflows to avoid unnecessary stress.
- Place a break room at your team’s disposal that promotes relaxation.
- Lots of greenery, fresh air and bright daylight are a must.
#6 Switzerland Shops Locally
In an increasingly international world, people are looking for a sense of familiarity and a feeling of safety. Small stores with a close connection to the local area are therefore in vogue. However, global chains can also benefit from this trend as well.
What you should do now:
Expand your assortment with products from the region. Dedicate an entire shelf to local produce.
hygiene with sales-boosting store management
#7 Hygiene Remains Important
People want to leave your store in good health even after the pandemic. Narrow aisles and cramped quarters discourage passers-by from entering your store. This is especially true in food retail.
What you should do now:
Create a hygiene concept for customers and staff.
Facilitate contactless payment.Guide your customers intelligently through the aisles in your store to avoid crowding.Use digital tools to control the number of people in your store.Place disinfection stations at the entrance and provide for good ventilation.Safeguard your health of your staff, for example, by using screens at the checkout.
Conclusion: These 3 aspects have the strongest influence on bricks-and-mortar retail
Whether in 2025, 2030, or 2100: Retail will always exist. You just have to adapt! Sounds complicated – but it mainly has to do with three areas:
Business model.
Your biggest competition is e-commerce. That’s why you need to give your customers reasons to visit your store: a more personal approach, a unique shopping experience, and unforgettable events.
Digitalization.
One thing is sure:
Anyone without an online store in 2030, or at least a virtual strategy, will cease to exist. But digitalization goes much further: It boosts customer loyalty, drives sales and lowers costs when done correctly.
Interior design.
You only have one chance:
If new customers don’t find your store appealing, they will prefer to do their shopping on the web. You need to offer an experience that sticks in their mind. At the same time, you need to optimize your store concept so that your sales grow and your staff remain happy.
Is your interior design ready for the latest megatrends?
We at GALA would be delighted to design a concept for your retail trade.
Let’s talk about your strategy
