With much of the country easing out of lockdown, Aussie businesses can finally look forward to welcoming back the customers.
We know we can expect great things after the recent reopening in Sydney generated record high sales.
And in Melbourne, all indications are today’s reopening was delivering on a promised shopping frenzy.
While exciting, reopening in an ongoing pandemic will continue to present challenges.
Health guidance warns against complacency, encouraging businesses and customers to continue their Covid-safe practices.
So what’s the best way to get your customers back after lockdown?
Here are a few tips to help.
Watch the advice
We’ve all seen and heard those scary reports about the increase in abuse to shop staff.
So you can be forgiven for feeling a little anxious about re-opening the shop doors.
In NSW, some businesses have chosen to stay closed until restrictions for entry are cleared.
In Victoria, there will be no official restrictions on unvaccinated retail shoppers for a few weeks yet, giving people more time to get vaccinated.
It’s not yet clear who will enforce future restrictions to unvaccinated shoppers — or how — but be sure to check your state government guidelines regularly for the latest updates.
In the meantime, do whatever feels right for you and your staff.
Handy Links:
Victorian Retail Covid Safe Guidance
Maintain your online store
Lockdown was a great opportunity for businesses to set up online ordering or to spruce up an existing e-commerce store.
Just because physical shopping is back in business, it doesn’t mean online ordering has to go.
It’s believed that online shopping will continue to be popular even after the pandemic.
And if you didn’t take the opportunity to set up an online store during lockdown, it’s not too late to begin.
Set up and maintain an ecommerce store to give your customers the ultimate in choice and convenience.
Does your website need refreshing?
Here’s How to Create a Website that Customers (and Google) will Love
Offer an in-store experience
Sure, re-opened shops can expect an initial rush of customers.
But there’s no denying that the pandemic has impacted the future of in-person shopping now that online shopping is here to stay.
And yet, physical stores will continue to be relevant … as long as they offer more than what people can get online.
One way to entice those customers back through your doors is by offering an experience.
Consider what value you could offer to customers who’ve made the effort to visit you in person.
Depending on your product, you could offer:
- tutorials
- demonstrations
- free classes
- guest talks
- performances
- competitions
- giveaways
While no one knows for sure what the future holds for retail shopping, businesses can stay prepared by following the health guidance and continuing to watch for great marketing tips.