Member Article

The year ahead in retail

As we start 2014, I would like to wish everyone a very happy and prosperous New Year!

As we leave Christmas for another year, and step into the sales, retailers will have already turned their attention to Easter.

Like many other sectors, retail does not stand still, forward thinking, planning and innovation are key!

These principles are also key to the sustainability of small businesses. Predicating trends and being able to adapt to changes and weathering the stormy patches, is all part of the path to success.

The trends that emerged last year should now be implemented and part of the culture of all independent stores.

Providing customers with a pleasurable in-store experience should not even need to be mentioned, it should be part and parcel of a store’s ethos.

It is attention to detail and the small things that really stand out to customers. For example, at Café Thorntons when customers place a drink order they also get a free chocolate. This is a nice little extra which may encourage them to purchase more of the chocolate or simply remember the experience and return for a future visit.

For larger stores, it is often their ability to build customer anticipation. By way of example, the annual Christmas advert by Marks & Spencer is eagerly anticipated by the public. Last year’s fairy tale theme captured the essence of Christmas for many viewers and instantly creates an exciting brand experience.

Whether large or small, retailers must continue to use creativity to capture the attention of their audience.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Royal Quays Outlet Centre .