A retail business could be viewed as one of the most challenging start-up businesses, due to the sheer amount you have to consider. Where a lot of entrepreneurs may opt for an eCommerce business based solely on home-working, retail demands that you get out into the world and build something physical with a store and a tangible product.
With that in mind, here are a few crucial points you should consider along the way.
Your Business Name is Important
For some entrepreneurs with a dream, the perfect retail name has long-since been created; for others, it can be a very daunting task to come up with the perfect name for their retail business. Either way, your business name shouldn’t be a rushed task, and you should ensure that it reflects the same as your branding should: the message, tone and target audience. Ideally, it should be something memorable.
Naming for a retail business can be different to any other kind, as retail names don’t necessarily have to reflect your specific product; as with many shops, it could be the name of a designer or a concept, or even something completely unrelated but which is catchy. Consider the idea of printing/cresting your business name on
promotional products which you can hand out to your most loyal customers. From simple balloons and key-holders, to sports balls – Imagine turning your basketballs to promotional Personalized Basketballs with your store name crested on it and what it will do to enhance your store’s visibility and eventually promote your business.
Design is Key
When it comes to a physical business property which customers will visit as opposed to an online store, you not only need to consider your brand and business message, but your store design, too. You need to provide a good and lasting impression for any visitor to your store, and your shop image needs to reflect the tone and target audience you are tailoring for. If you’re brand is budget friendly, it shouldn’t scream luxury expense; likewise, if you’re brand is top-end, then you should be considering luxury shop fittings and not budget interiors.
Outline Your Products and the Services You Offer
With a retail business, it’s not only important to select the right merchandise to display in your store, but you also need to form a plan for any extra services your retail business may offer. Depending on the product, this could be many things, such as an after-sale support service, a repair option, a multi-purchase deal or gift-wrapping. You should be clear about this before commencing business, and be sure all employees are clear, too.
Decide on Any Other Channels
Most retail stores also have an eCommerce website; and, with most shopping performed online these days, it really is a necessity if you hope to push your business forward. You should therefore consider setting up a website alongside your physical store, and you should also decide on any other selling channels, such as taking telephone orders, issuing customers with a catalogue or an easy-to-use mobile app on which consumers can place their orders.
Focus on Customer Service
With products so easily ordered from the comfort of home, the reason most people will choose to shop in a store instead is the personalized, customer experience. You therefore need to make sure that your retail business excels at positive customer service. If this is lacking when customers visit your store, this could be the very thing which deters them from re-visiting. Your merchandise could be great, but if your customer service isn’t, you may lose customers.
