How to leverage in-store technology as a retailer

If you're looking for ways to spice up your retail business approach and appeal to new, fresh audiences, it's likely time for you to begin using in-store technology. 

Capgemini found that 72% of consumers expect to have significant interactions with brick-and-mortar retail stores after the pandemic, exceeding pre-pandemic numbers of 60%.

So, which in-store technologies are a good fit for your business? This article will list several ideas for you to consider as you look forward to the future of your in-store consumer experience.

Want more ideas on how to stay ahead of retail trends? Watch our video for more tips

What is in-store technology?

In-store technology refers to the digital tools and innovations that physical retail stores use to automate and optimize their customer experience as well as improve retail sales. 

Examples of in-store tech

In a world brimming with digital technologies, there are several retail technologies that will improve the retail experience for both employees and customers in physical stores. 

Reach your tech-savvy customer base by implementing some of these innovative technologies in your retail business. 

QR codes

The QR code—that little black and white square you see on menus and posters—is a barcode that can be scanned using your mobile device's camera. Oftentimes you'll see these in restaurants (a product of the COVID-19 pandemic), but more and more, they're being used by retailers.

Typically, the QR code will direct you to more information or a payment portal for a smart checkout. QR codes can be used to give background on a product, link to an article about a product, or lead to a contactless payment option, among other things.

BOPIS

BOPIS stands for "buy online, pick up in store." It's the perfect combination of online shopping and in-store shopping (no delivery fees!) and saves time when you can't go into the store.

BOPIS services peaked during the height of the pandemic. Fewer people were shopping in person and needed the option to pick up their products rather than do the shopping themselves. 

Now, with BOPIS, brick-and-mortar stores can continue functioning while giving consumers the convenience that they crave. 

In-queue checkout

Many businesses are implementing an in-queue checkout. This will optimize the checkout process when there are long lines and customers waiting. Handheld scanners and contactless payment devices are used by employees to approach customers in line and get them checked out when all of the cashiers are occupied. 

Contactless payment methods

Contactless payment is a part of nearly every other in-store technology, but it's one that has revolutionized payment processes. During the pandemic, retailers adopted the contactless payment trend to minimize physical contact with surfaces.

Now, it's the norm, and there are several ways to approach the payment process without having to touch highly-trafficked surfaces in retail stores. 

Interactive experiences

Interactive experiences in retail can take many forms. This can look like gamifying a shopping experience through an app, using smart vending machines to show off products, creating digital displays in your store, using smart mirrors or interactive mirrors in your dressing rooms, and using apps that scan a product to show its features. 

Customers appreciate an immersive experience, and interactive technology is one way to create that.

Artificial intelligence

One way companies are choosing to optimize their business is through artificial intelligence. Customer service robots are becoming more prevalent. AI-generated support services in the online shopping experience are almost a given. 

Not only can AI automate a task to free up time for other things, it can also keep real-time data of your customers.

Clienteling software

Clienteling software facilitates long-term relationships between sales associates and customers. Otherwise known as a customer relationship management system (CRM), clienteling software allows your business to track customers throughout the buyer's journey.

Not only does clienteling software keep and organize all of your client data, it also enables sales associates to send personalized offers and recommendations to shoppers, makes it simple to follow up with clients, and facilitates strong relationships with customers.

Clientbook is a clienteling software that has all of the previously mentioned features and more, making client relationships the focus of your retail business. Not only does this make the job more enjoyable for employees, it also improves customer retention and sales.

Interested in how Clientbook can help your business to thrive? Get our clienteling starter kit to find out how clienteling will improve your retail business

Why in-store tech is beneficial for retailers 

In-store tech is the way of the future. If you're looking for ways to optimize your business and spend more time creating novel experiences for consumers, it's time to integrate in-store technology into your brick-and-mortar retail spaces. 

Automates menial tasks

In-store technology can automate menial tasks within your business. This can look like responding to common customer issues or complaints using AI, placing digital kiosks in your retail store to make checkout easier, implementing an inventory management software, and making sure you have contactless payment options for your customers.

Makes more time for customer relationship-building

When you've streamlined your repetitive, administrative tasks, that leaves you with more time to spend with customers. 

Using a clienteling software like Clientbook, you can develop long-term relationships with your customers, which leads to a happier work life and a more loyal customer base. You can focus on what will make your customers happy and how to earn their continual business, which is at the heart of your purpose as a business owner or employee. 

Makes shopping a fun, interesting experience

With an abundance of tech options at your fingertips, why not put them to use in your retail business? Shoppers are looking for a unique shopping experience and one that makes them feel seen, uplifted, and intrigued. There's no better way to create that type of consumer experience than through new and exciting technologies. 

Conclusion

Retail has looked a certain way for decades, but that doesn't mean it has to stay that way. By implementing in-store technologies, you can increase consumer delight along with your sales revenue. 

Book a demo with Clientbook today to see how you can implement valuable in-store technology into your business right away.