Why a Bricks and Mortar Business Desperately Needs Digital Marketing
The evolution of online shopping has created huge transparency in price. The convenience of shopping from home means that shoppers in stores want a better experience, and price retailers must adapt to provide it while maintaining their requisite margin. The evolution of bricks and mortar networks will require them to have greater cost control and become true multi-channel operations. Many experts emphasize that information is only as valuable as the strategy behind it.
Digital marketing for bricks and mortars is an effective way to drive new business to your establishment. Many consumers use the Internet for much more than just shopping online. In fact, many consumers will visit a brick-and-mortar store’s website before actually purchasing the product. If a brick-and-mortar business implements a digital marketing strategy, it will see a boost in foot traffic and customer loyalty.
Moreover, customers no longer want to choose between in-store and online shopping. They expect seamless experiences across all channels. By complementing brick-and-mortar and digital businesses, a retailer can create a brand experience that is convenient to both parties. In addition, stores can serve as community hubs, showrooms, and warehouses. Customers will use digital channels to tell retailers what they need, and the retail industry must listen to them.
In order to survive in the modern retail environment, brick-and-mortar retailers need better tools than they currently have. Physical retail is facing a tough time. Approximately 7,567 national stores have closed this year, and the final number is expected to top 12,000 by the end of the year. If a brick-and-mortar business doesn’t embrace digital marketing, it will be left behind.
Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected people and businesses around the world. In Australia, the unemployment rate went up from 5% to 7.5%, and many traditional brick-and-mortar businesses have been left to fend for themselves with zero revenues. But luckily, many have found ways to survive in the current environment. Among these innovative strategies include ecommerce, social media marketing, and search engine marketing.