One of the biggest changes to retail due to the pandemic has been in-store occupancy.
Most states have adopted rules limiting the number of patrons inside a store. This has created quite a challenge for small shops that would generally rely on one-on-one interactions and in-store marketing items to help with sales.
A way to adapt to the new normal of retail is by expanding on your shop’s storefront design.
In this article, you’ll learn four fantastic curb appeal tips for the front of the store.
Lead With Your Best Stuff
Bypass window shopping by bringing your best stuff to the customer!
Placing items outside of the shop is a sure-fire way to garner attention. It’s an age-old tactic that still works today due to the thrill and excitement of interacting with items.
A passerby can stop, engage, and conduct business on the spot. This transaction can get others involved (peer influence) as they make way past the shop. It’s much like seeing a line out of a restaurant — a thought of, “this has got to be good!”
You can continue this experience by beckoning individuals inside with more exciting stuff within eyeshot.
Add Personality and Design
Big brands get to leverage their namesakes and iconic building designs. Your small shop doesn’t have the privilege.
What’s needed is a touch of personality and design on the shop’s front — things like:
- Eye-catching business signs
- Irresistible discounts and promos
- Enticing sounds and smells
Obviously, you’ll need to follow local laws and regulations for the storefront’s design. But, get creative where you’re allowed to help the shop stand out. Defy expectations and complacency by doing the opposite of local competitors.
Wording, too, can make a difference in how individuals react. Bring it back to the basics and speak like your customer. This will connect with them on a real level, enticing them to further explore what’s inside the shop.
Keep It Clean
Impressions with a store are much like that of a person.
You won’t likely get another chance to make an impression on someone as they stroll past. Nothing puts the wrong image in their head faster than a dirty appearance.
You need to:
- Keep windows sparkling and clear
- Sweep and maintain the grounds
- Dust and touch up the item presentation
A business that cares for its presentation sends the signal that it also cares for its customers. It’s subtle but it could be the very thing some need to see before entering the shop. Plus, it’s never a bad thing to take pride in your work and presentation!
Do a Little Landscaping
If you’re allowed to do it (and you can afford it) then some landscaping can certainly help with the storefront!
Simple things like adding a few plants or keeping the greens trimmed are good for the store’s presentation. Flowering plants can add colors that attract customers, too, by standing out against the often drab corporate design of other stops.
Good Storefront Design Is More Important Than Ever
The limited occupancy of a store plus other factors is making business difficult.
A business needs to adapt to thrive.
Improving upon the storefront design is one area that every shop owner needs to explore. This guide shared four ideas but there are so many more to try once creativity kicks in.
Get inspired to improve your business through the insights and guides found on the site! There are plenty of business-related articles you’re sure to love as much as this one. So, check them out, and cheers to your success!