Boost your seasonal sales: Top tips for retailers
In the fast-paced retail environment, savvy businesses are well aware of the impact seasonal changes can have on their sales. Be it the festive-focused Golden Quarter or the much-awaited school holidays, discerning retailers understand the importance of adjusting their strategies to stay ahead and boost sales.
At Orderwise, we recognise the importance of standing out from the competition and continuing to drive revenue growth. In this blog, we’ll discuss five key tips and strategies retailers can use to boost sales in busy times and maximise success.
Look at customer demands and expectations
Consumer purchasing trends have developed beyond just identifying and buying an item, with customers now looking for an immersive and personalised experience. Customers are now increasingly drawn to companies that offer quick and easy delivery services, prioritise sustainability, and focus on providing a unique journey.
Implementing this doesn't have to be difficult however; the introduction of loyalty schemes, offering rewards to new and existing customers or utilising online and mobile analytics to subtly suggest products to individuals based on their habits.
Using solutions such as CRM systems and ecommerce-centric systems will help retailers, especially in busy shopping periods, to tailor messaging resulting in increased click-through rates, conversions and sales.
Offer multi-channel experience
Customers expect to be able to buy from a range of platforms at their own convenience, so to capitalise on seasonal sales, retailers must make sure they have a strong presence and seamless integration across multiple channels.
Retailers can combine physical stores with online sales channels - such as the Orderwise Online Store - as well as online marketplaces like Amazon and social media platforms to create a seamless multi-channel shopping experience.
Effective multi-channel software can integrate retail outlets, online marketplaces, and third-party platforms for a smooth omni-channel operation and enhanced purchasing options for customers. All of this means you can easily manage orders from start to finish, and make light work of managing direct shipments from suppliers.
Streamline warehousing
Seasonal peaks impact the whole business, not just the customer-focussed teams. Your marketing and sales effort and investment will be for nothing if your stock and warehouse operations aren’t able to fulfil those orders. Combining data collected from customer habits with automated stock replenishment, the warehouse team can maximise picking efficiency and be the first to know when stock is running low, as well as flagging issues with missing or damaged stock.
By looking at spending trends, retailers can forecast and purchase the right quantities of stock which is especially important if products won’t be able to rollover into the next season. Using automation can allow clear visibility of the whole chain, from supply to store with one central hub.
Optimise delivery
Faster delivery times are becoming more of a priority with customers when choosing which retailer to purchase from, especially around times with a set end date such as Christmas and new school terms. Shoppers are looking for efficiency and visibility, requesting to know exactly when a package may arrive.
The key to managing the whole delivery and returns process is by integrating with courier systems to combine orders into a single shipment and utilise delivery rules to save staff time on choosing the right couriers for the job. Effective use of automation means that drivers can keep customers updated on estimated delivery times, while planning the most efficient route, leading to reducing operational expenses.
Maintain visibility
In the midst of bustling seasonal changes, many retailers' marketing efforts tend to blend together. So how can you stand out from your competitors? While offering exclusive savings and rewards can be one approach, it may not always be cost effective for your business to have the best offers on the market. Instead, consider exploring alternative methods like captivating store displays and visual attractions. Just look at Selfridge’s notorious window displays and Apple’s iconic clean-cut stores.
By implementing these tips and strategies, you can ensure your retail business is set for success during seasonal changes. Understanding business strengths, customer habits and how to stand out amongst the crowd will make you a strong competitor in a saturated industry.
Looking for more ways to keep your customers happy and sales soaring?