Use communication APIs in-store to drive online demand

Physical stores are still in demand

While nearly everything can be bought online, and often at cheaper prices, retailers should be careful not to fall into the trap of dismissing physical stores altogether. We have officially entered the era of mix-and-match as research shows over half of shoppers (across most generations) still prefer shopping in-store.

58%

of shoppers in Asia still prefer to buy from retailers that have brick-and-mortar stores.

Source: Business Times

It’s all about ascertaining quality and improving convenience

Customers wish to touch, feel, and see the goods for themselves before making a purchase. But that doesn't mean retailers should neglect an online presence. After all, many in-store customers make their first purchase in-person to ascertain quality, and then make subsequent purchases online for convenience.

Integrated communications drive demand, from offline to online

While customers have been streaming onto retail websites from online advertisements and social media links, brick-and-mortar stores can also become legitimate lead generators if they are integrated well with the online experience.

For instance, traditional stores can set up and attach unique QR codes for all your products in-store. Upon scanning these codes it will trigger automated SMS or WhatsApp notifications with all the product information that the shopper can then review in detail at home.

This provides opportunities for retailers to keep the sales opportunity alive long after an indecisive customer has left the store.