Practical guide: offering click and collect in your shop
The retail industry has undergone a revolution in recent years, particularly with the rise of online shopping and marketplaces. In this context of digitalization, click-and-collect is a feature that allows retailers to stand out and offer an efficient and convenient service to their customers. In this article, we will define what click-and-collect is, explain why this functionality is important for retailers, and above all how to implement it in your business.
How to implement this new service in your business?
A new organization for your shop
In principle, click and collect requires the implementation of a website with an online ordering platform. However, if you do not have an e-commerce site, it is still possible to offer this functionality to your customers. For example, you can use social networks to announce this new offer and take orders by phone or e-mail.
To implement this in your business, you need to define a clear organization for order collection. It is important to have a dedicated space for withdrawals, as well as a stock management system to avoid errors and stock-outs. It is also advisable to inform customers of the opening hours for collection and the processing times.
To make it easier to create orders, use an online order management system that allows you to centralize them and send notifications when they need to be prepared. You can also set pick-up times to avoid queues and ensure speedy service.
The advantages of click-and-collect for retailers
Click and collect has many advantages for retailers. Firstly, it builds customer loyalty by providing a convenient and efficient service. Secondly, it reduces delivery and stock management costs by limiting unnecessary stock. Finally, it boosts sales by offering an additional solution for customers who may be reluctant to use home delivery.
How to optimize click-and-collect in your business?
Communicate this new functionality to your customers
Once you have implemented this practice in your shop, it is important to tell your customers that they can get your products in another way. As mentioned earlier, use your existing communication channels, such as your website if you have one, your social networks, or your newsletter to let your customers know that you offer this purchase option. In parallel, you can create a specific display in your shop to let your customers know that click-and-collect is finally available. You can place these posters on your front door or on your checkout counter, for example.
Don't hesitate to present the advantages of click and collect, such as the speed, the simplicity of the order, and flexibility of the collection schedule. You can also offer a discount to encourage customers to try this new service. This will boost your sales.
Managing click-and-collect payments
When you set up click and collect, you need to decide how you are going to manage payments. You can ask for online payment at the time of purchase or payment on the spot at the time of collection. Online payment is more convenient for customers, as it is still faster than a "traditional" purchase in the shop. In addition, it gives you the guarantee of payment before the order is prepared by you or your staff. If you choose to pay on the spot, make sure that you have a suitable cash register system and that you are well-informed about the payment methods accepted.