It’s a hard time to remain afloat as a business today, given the economic downturn from the COVID-19 pandemic. Many businesses had to shut their doors either temporarily or permanently due to regional stay-at-home orders and social distancing guidelines. Still, some businesses have made the most of the situation through omnichannel strategies. One of these strategies is curbside pickup, and it allows customers to order food or goods and drive to pick them up. If your business hasn’t done this, you can still read some of the main benefits of curbside pickup here. These recommendations can help recover your business during this stressful time.
Streamlines In-Store Inventory
Undoubtedly, curbside pickup streamlines the distribution of your in-store inventory. This is one of the greatest advantages for retailers today. Inventory velocity ensures greater order fulfillment while also allowing you to upsell or cross-sell hard ticket items. Faster inventory flow creates a stronger supply chain between you, your manufacturers, distributors, and customers. More importantly, it increases your overall sales via the Buy Online, Pick-Up in Store (BOPIS) model.
Offers Customers More Flexibility
With that, customers appreciate ease and transparency in their shopping experience. No longer are they pestered with in-person hassles like wrong sizes, limited quantity, or facing other customers. Instead, BOPIS allows customers to order their desired products from the comfort of their homes. The on-location pick-up also reduces the time spent browsing in-store. They’ll appreciate the simplicity of this model, and you’ll see greater retention amongst your loyal patrons.
Reduces Shipping or Delivery Costs
Additionally, retailers reduce their shipping and delivery costs. Simply put, customers who pick up their own items eliminate the need for third-party delivery or shipping services. This could mean hundreds—if not thousands—of dollars saved with increased profit margins. You can even offer unique savings for curbside pickup orders to increase customer reliance.
Increases Customer Loyalty and Brand Recognition
The last main benefit of curbside pickup is that it increases customer loyalty and raises your brand recognition. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic forced many businesses to omnichannel strategies. Still, even during this difficult transition period, those businesses that offer curbside pickup leave a greater impression on consumers than those that do not. You’ll have greater customer retention given the dependability of your store over your competitors. Newer patrons will turn to your business when others have closed temporarily or permanently.
One way to optimize your inventory, customer loyalty, and curbside orders is through a POS system. Granted, our legacy pos software for small business ensure fast, reliable inventory management, customer data, and complete functionality for your restaurant, retail store, or hotel. Contact us with questions regarding your POS system and we’re happy to help.
