Even though a strong online presence is essential for many retailers, it’s important to not overlook the power of your brick-and-mortar store. 71% of shoppers believe they’ll find better deals online, but 94% of retail sales are still credited to brick-and-mortar stores. If you have a brick-and-mortar store, it’s almost certain that you want to get more people coming through your doors. While there are many methods to lure shoppers to visit your store, there’s likely some out-of-the-box strategies you haven’t explored. That’s why we’ve curated a lengthy list of unique ideas for retailers to boost foot traffic and increase sales in their brick-and-mortar stores.

1.   Convenient and Intimate Facilities

Providing customers with thoughtful and satisfying equipment or facilities to enhance their shopping satisfaction, happiness and make their shopping experience better, even though these may be not related to your business and products. For example, providing USB chargers or sharable chargers, which are invaluable, especially considering the fact that most of people now have a smartphone. Providing Free WIFI or Lounge Area with Televisions, teas and coffee. 

2.   Enhance Your Window Displays

Foot traffic is directly related to how attractive your business looks from the outside. If your store isn’t eye-catching or welcoming to people walking by, then the amount of foot traffic will diminish. Of course, this is even more relevant if your retail location is within an urban environment. Your store should have eye-catching retail displays that people can easily notice just from walking by your store. For example, utilizing signs that advertise sales or displaying the most popular products near the windows can draw customers into your store.

3.   In-store or Local Events

Look at your store as more than just a store — approach it as an event space. Customers will associate your store with being fun and a place to visit, even when they don’t really need to shop. Besides, People love businesses that engage with the local community they are serving. You can host a local event or take part in an event by having a booth. This is a great way to interact directly with potential customers and build relationships. By in-store or local events, you are increasing your store’s visibility which will result in more foot traffic. Bring sample products and giveaway prizes to the event to entice customers to interact with you. Don’t forget to announce your participation at the event on all of your social media platforms.

4.   Email Marketing Implement

Email marketing is a form of permission marketing that is now more effective than ever. You need to keep your customers in the loop about ongoing in-store promotions or upcoming events. One of the best ways to do so is via email. Emails can inform and give your customers a reason to physically come to your store. Include promotions, sales, and new product launches in your next email marketing campaign.

5.   Cooperate with Micro-Influencers or Celebrities

Take advantage of influencer marketing to drive more traffic to your store. It’s a common practice for brands and businesses to use influencers to help sell their products. Finding influencers within your business niche can be an effective strategy to increase the number of customers who visit your store. For example, Verizon Wireless has hosted events, inviting NFL players. Verizon has had them dress as store associates and surprise customers. Once word gets out, customers are likely to visit your store for the chance to meet an icon.

6.   Keep Teaching Customers Related to Your Products

Most consumers want to learn about how to get the most out of the products they buy. If you offer to teach them, they’ll gladly visit your store. For example, if you sell food-related products, show your customers how to use them with a cooking demo. Bonus points for getting a chef (or mixologist) with an existing audience. For customers who don’t necessarily want to learn how to cook, offer tasting events. You can also model it as a customer appreciation event, which can help build relationships with your customers.

Getting increased foot traffic is still possible even in this digital age. You just have to give potential customers a reason to stop by your store instead of passing by. Increasing foot traffic takes time, action, and effort. Using the strategies listed above can help your business attract more customers and draw them into your store. With consistent effort, you will surely see an increase in foot traffic.

engineer@Hshelf.com