Retail marketing and promotions technology is dramatically changing how these stores are run. Technological advancements like AI have been sweeping how retail stores are promoted. However, there’s much more than AI in using technology to promote a retail store. There’s also a wealth of digital marketing channels to tap into, i.e. social media and email, and in-store promotional tactics, such as digital signage software.
Here is how you can evolve your retail marketing strategy using tech.
In-Store Digital Signage Software
Digital signage software can be programmed with images, video, and marketing-friendly messaging. It is most often used to engage customers, showcase products, discounts, and upcoming events, and feature limited-time flash sales. In a retail store, this is a way to keep promoting, encourage impulse buys, and get shoppers excited. With excitement comes a higher likelihood of spending.
Interactive Store Map to Promote Sections
Use an interactive map at the front of your retail store to highlight different sections and a general path through your store. These are handy for larger stores. They also serve a purpose for smaller stores, especially if they’re interactive maps that allow customers to search for a product. This reduces customer service reps’ questions and facilitates a more positive in-store navigation experience.
QR Codes to Share Product Information
Consider placing QR codes on the product tags for near-high-end products that may require some explaining or that a customer may have questions about.
When a customer scans the code, provide instant access to detailed specs, information, reviews, and FAQs about a product. This answers questions immediately without the customer flagging a customer service rep down. QR codes can even share how-to guides if a product is particularly complex.
Customer Wi-Fi Portal Sign-Up with Email
Boosting your email subscriber list should be a priority for any retail store. Email gets you a direct line to leads that you can potentially convert with the right offer. In exchange for free customer Wi-Fi, ask for an email at the login screen. This captures the email that can be used for future marketing campaigns while providing customers with the excellent free Wi-Fi feature while browsing your store.
Augmented Reality in Retail Stores
Augmented reality, or AR, can provide customers with unique, engaging experiences as they try on products or want to see if a product fits into their space. In addition to virtual reality, augmented reality in retail adds a new dynamic to shopping. It further integrates the online with the offline and can help market specific products that customers may consider whether they fit into their wardrobe, home, or lifestyle.
App-Based Loyalty Program
Promote your retail store by creating an app on which your customers can set up a loyalty program. Reward repeat purchases with points, discounts, and exclusive offers that can only be redeemed through the app. Once the app is downloaded to your customers’ phones, you can send them push notifications to promote your retail store. This rewards your best customers and offers a way to market to your base quickly.
Digital Marketing to Attract Customers
When you take your business online, websites, social media, email marketing, and search engines can each be used to guide more customers to your store. Setting up promotions exclusive to in-store, promoting in-store events and sales, and offering additional advantages or perks for shopping in-store to customer loyalty members can all bring customers to your brick-and-mortar.
Maximize Your Social Media Reach
Make social media a pillar of your retail marketing campaign. Through Instagram, Facebook, and others, you can market your store’s products directly to customers to buy online or buy and schedule for in-store pickup. Remember, thousands of people in your location casually browse social media you can connect with using the right ad or post. With captivating images and videos, you can redirect interested users to shop at your retail store.
AI-Powered Chatbot Assistance
A chatbot available in-store powered by AI can answer all sorts of questions and assist with purchases, enhancing customer engagement online and in-store. Retailers already use AI in different ways to help guide customers through product selection. This can be provided to smartphones via an app or website or incorporated into digital signage or in-store screens.
Upselling, Cross-Selling, and Product Recommendations
AI can offer product recommendations based on past customer behaviours or what a customer intends to purchase. This is your opportunity to upsell, cross-sell, and provide complementary products or services that can enhance what your products offer to the customer. This sort of approach to moving products improves conversion rates and boosts sales. It also aligns with user preferences and does not step on toes when recommending products.
