As retail stores re-open in the United States, shoppers and store-owners are increasingly aware of changing shopping habits. Yet, even as restrictions are lifted, “retail footfall remains below pre-pandemic levels…and consumer confidence is low,” according to a recent Accenture study. There are signs of an uplift in the next six months, though.
Brick and mortar stores must provide a unique and pleasant experience to persuade customers to come inside – not just shop online. To win customers in a post-pandemic world, retailers can make adjustments to their existing space or build new to align with the expectations of today’s shoppers.
Clear Safety and Social Distancing
It’s vital for retailers to build trust with their in-person shoppers by clearly showing how they follow the most up-to-date safety and social distancing protocols. For example, a new retail store can create a space where customers feel comfortable immediately with clear flow through the store and strategic open space.
Local and Mindful Construction
Post-pandemic demand is high for local brands with values that align with a consumer’s. RTF Construction can work with our retail clients to create a more sustainable renovation or build-out. Embracing local and mindful materials, resources, and products can be a massive win for a retail store and drive Atlanta’s locally-conscious consumers into your store.
Align with Digital Options
Consumers have shown that they will continue to shop online, from home, even as the pandemic recedes. Brick-and-mortar stores can make the digital e-commerce process easier for their customers by designing curb-side and in-store pickup areas. In construction, a designated space for pick-up or a window for curbside delivery is critical for the shopper experience.
Make Space for Personal Interactions
Personal interactions are the heart and soul of retail shopping (and almost everything else) in a post-pandemic world. Retailers should not only train their employees and offer personalized, top-of-the-line services but create a space for those interactions to happen as well. We can work with you to brainstorm what works for your business and customers. A help desk, a dressing room concierge desk, or whatever you need can be built into your project.
Target E-Commerce Customers
It’s also essential to work with marketing and development teams to showcase in-person offers to your e-commerce customers. Make sure that any changes made are showcased via emails, unique offerings, and social media. Use data from online sales and market research to understand what’s most important to your existing customers.
Contact RTF Construction for your Retail Needs in Atlanta
RTF Construction is proud to work with all types of clients to take their retail construction projects from vision to reality. View our retail construction project gallery to see the variety of clients we work with and current projects, including national and local brands. If you are interested in renovating your existing store or building something completely new, we’d be happy to help. Contact us online or call 678-787-2748 to learn how we can help you with your next project!
