// INDUSTRY UNLOCKED // that unites the online shop with the physical shopfront . This ensures customers have a variety of options available to them , optimising the shopping experience . A successful e-commerce strategy should aim to be both dynamic and inviting . Factors such as identifying a target audience and positioning products accordingly are key to marketing success , ensuring small retailers stand out in the crowded e-commerce marketplace . In terms of logistics , a retailer ’ s online site should give its customers a range of payment options , as well as provide convenience and flexibility for the business owner and employees . This can be achieved by ensuring the online site is able to accept credit and debit card payments from any device , manages all incoming payments and orders and is protected against fraud .

Replacing outdated , manual tools

For busy small retailers , updating their technology can seem like a daunting task , especially if they and their staff are familiar and comfortable with their current manual processes . However manual tools and processes can lead to mistakes and inconsistencies , including miscalculating inventory , greater carrying costs and an overall decline in revenue . Through automating these processes , it is easy to avoid common errors , such as mistakenly selling an out-of-stock product and having to delay shipping .

Small retailers should embrace new technologies that aim to make it easier for their employees . For example , integrative digital platforms can streamline administrative aspects of a small business , including tracking and reporting on all transactions and customer purchase trends and assisting management processes such as scheduling shifts for employees . For small retail businesses , integrating new technologies also guarantees precision and accuracy in managing all administrative processes . For instance , tracking down specific transactions is easier than ever due to the volume of data platforms which are capable of storing data , while an easy-to-navigate user interface avoids the panic that ensues when attempting to find precise information using outdated technology or manual records . With these processes taken care of , employees have significantly more time to focus on other aspects of the business , such as engaging with customers , marketing their products and services and ensuring customer satisfaction – high value tasks that contribute to small retailers ’ growth .

The opportunity for growth

Whilst dealing with these issues may seem like a daunting task for small retailers , acknowledging the potential challenges and taking preventative measures can turn the issue into an opportunity to upgrade current processes and boost growth . By eliminating outdated practices that no longer serve current business models in the rapidly developing retail industry , small retailers can make room for more efficient processes .

Small retailers that adopt up-to-date technology specifically designed to simplify administrative operations will create a much smoother experience for managing their business and employees . It will also minimise the margin for error , enabling a more consistent experience for their customers and boosting customer satisfaction and loyalty . With the tedious administrative aspects of the business taken care of , small retailers can concentrate on building their customer base , optimising the products and services they offer and focusing on what they do best : serving their customers . �

SMALL RETAILERS MUST CREATE AN OMNICHANNEL EXPERIENCE FOR THEIR CUSTOMERS THAT UNITES THE ONLINE SHOP WITH THE PHYSICAL SHOPFRONT .

Jon Boland , General Manager , Clover UK

Intelligent SME . tech

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