Why a Bricks and Mortar Business Desperately Needs Digital Marketing

Whether your bricks-and-mortar business is big or small, you need to embrace the power of digital marketing to stay competitive. The internet is the most popular source of shopping for consumers, and bricks-and-mortar businesses must be online to attract new customers and retain loyal ones. Here are some ways digital marketing can help your brick-and-mortar business:

The evolution of retail is already underway. Many brick-and-mortar shoppers are already looking for a brick-and-mortar business online before they even step foot inside it. As the consumer shifts toward online shopping, brick-and-mortar businesses need to evolve to meet these changing expectations. While brick-and-mortar businesses will never completely go out of business, having a digital presence is essential for staying competitive and profitable. In addition to the advantages of having a digital presence, consumers are increasingly willing to purchase products from brick-and-mortar establishments if they have a digital presence.

Retailers are increasingly adopting mobile apps to improve customer experiences. Apps like Google Maps, Shopify, and Guides can help sales associates better serve customers in-store. Embracing digital marketing services can increase conversion rates by up to 40% and help you build valuable relationships with your customers. Further, they can be highly customizable and applicable across industries, so you can tailor them to your brick-and-mortar experience.

Moreover, two-thirds of millennial shoppers now use mobile devices to look for products and services. Therefore, it is imperative for brick-and-mortar businesses to take their website seriously. A great website provides valuable information, such as the prices of products and their return policies. The website also provides more opportunities to gain reviews. If your website is not well maintained, your business may actually repel customers.

While a brick-and-mortar business should consider location and store design, digital marketing can help drive customers to the store. For example, clothing brands can use digital marketing to promote in-store exclusive sales. The customer experience should be seamless and convenient. Employees should be ready to answer any questions or help customers in need. Call buttons can alert employees to your presence. Using social media on the right channels can increase traffic to your brick-and-mortar business.

In the COVID-19 era, retailers are being forced to integrate their digital operations with their brick-and-mortar stores. In fact, 55% of them claim they would not have survived without e-commerce. A small percentage plan to continue this integration after the pandemic ends. Retailers need to embrace the power of digital marketing to stay competitive. It is time to embrace the power of omnichannel marketing and become smart about it.

Brick-and-mortar businesses are inherently more prone to customer service problems. Digital signage can help point customers to a specific area. Explainer videos can simplify the customer experience. With so many options and a short attention span, bricks-and-mortar businesses must know what sets them apart from online competitors. Therefore, it is important to understand your competitive advantage in this age. A brick-and-mortar business desperately needs digital marketing to remain relevant.

While online marketing can help drive customers to your physical location, your brick-and-mortar business isn’t likely to survive without it. Digital marketing, on the other hand, can be less invasive and is an excellent way to get new customers. Moreover, it can help you avoid losing customers to your online competitors. Retailers that thrive and survive will take the time to embrace change and remain aligned with their customers.