With summer just around the corner, retailers need to be on their toes with merchandising. People love to shop during long summer afternoons, so being prepared with your store fixtures is an absolute must. Here are four things shoppers will want from merchants during the months of June, July and August:
1. Ease of shopping
Customers today are used to the online shopping experience, which is fast and often hassle-free. While the warm weather may encourage shoppers to visit your brick-and-mortar location, you won’t pull in any extra revenue if customers find your store difficult to navigate. Organize your display tables and clothing racks so customers will be able to easily make their way through your outlet, and be sure you have plenty of staff on hand to answer any questions shoppers may have.
2. Bright colors, fun accessories
Clothing retailers should be prepared for a summer of bright, fun hues and unique accessories. Shoppers will be eager to pick up T-shirts, sun dresses, slacks and skirts in florescent or neon pinks, oranges, yellows and blues. While sunglasses will definitely be popular, other summer accessories like wristbands, bangles and dangling earrings will be popular, so be sure to stock such items on your jewelry displays.
3. Summer savings
In addition to ease of shopping, customers of today have grown accustomed to low prices found on the internet. You can edge out web-based competition by dropping prices on some of your own popular items. Be sure to broadcast your promotions with store signs and social media campaigns. Focus on sales that will bring in foot traffic. For example, you can offer discounts on clothing only if customers show up at the physical store location, rather than purchasing through your online store.
4. Pay more, get more
While sales and promotions are essential, they may not be as necessary as years passed, seeing that the economy has been steadily improving. You may find that some shoppers are willing to pay slightly more for your products if it means they’ll get extra perks. These benefits come in many shapes and sizes – perhaps the staff at your store is extra friendly, or maybe you offer free gift wrap or a gift with purchase. In any event, find a way to increase the value of your store overall, and you won’t have to rely so heavily on slashing prices.
