Why a Bricks and Mortar Business Desperately Needs Digital Marketing
For a bricks-and-mortar business to remain competitive, it is important to capitalize on its strengths. One of the biggest levers is direct customer contact. And while employees are a business’s most important asset, they can also be a major source of growth if they implement a robust digital marketing strategy. A good website and social media strategy will help attract more customers to your store. Using email marketing to target specific demographics is another great way to generate customer loyalty.
Digital marketing can also benefit a brick-and-mortar business by driving new traffic. In fact, most consumers visit a brick-and-mortar store’s website before they make a purchase. By improving visibility online and driving more traffic to your brick-and-mortar location, you will increase sales and customer loyalty. So why does a brick-and-mortar business desperately need digital marketing?
Consumer behavior is evolving. Unlike earlier generations, consumers now expect seamless retail experiences. By complementing a digital presence with a brick-and-mortar one, a brick-and-mortar retailer can serve as a warehouse, showroom, and community center. Digital channels provide a great opportunity to listen to customer needs and meet their needs. With the right technology and a good strategy, retailers can ensure a seamless customer experience for both.
Today, the world is experiencing one of its most difficult times in a century. The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted people and businesses all over the world. Unemployment in Australia rose from 5.2% to 7.5%. Many traditional bricks-and-mortar businesses have been left to struggle with costs and zero revenue. In the meantime, digital marketing, social media marketing, and search engine optimization have become powerful selling channels.
A brick-and-mortar retailer should leverage digital marketing to differentiate itself from the competition. In-store shoppers want a seamless experience and leveraging online and offline data will help them stand out. Companies like Indigo are already using digital data to improve the experience in-store. For example, Bonobos has implemented an app called Guides that can help sales associates find what the customer is looking for.
Brick-and-mortar stores have been around for a long time, but times are changing. More consumers are interacting with brands through digital channels than ever before. If brick-and-mortar stores are to stay competitive, they must be flexible and embrace the digital era. With the help of digital marketing, brick-and-mortar retailers can remain competitive and profitable. However, consumers are increasingly savvy about shopping online, and they’re more likely to buy products from businesses with a strong digital presence.
Digital marketing helps a brick-and-mortar business make the most of its physical location. If a clothing brand advertises a sale only available in-store, digital marketing can be an excellent way to promote that sale. In-store, employees should be ready to help customers when they need it. Using call buttons or other technology that alerts them to an emergency is another way to keep staff ready to help customers.