Ecommerce stores offer significant benefits for both owners and customers. However, in-person shopping also has its advantages, and there are times when customers prefer to shop in person. The solution to integrating ecommerce with in-person shopping is known as click to bricks. This strategy combines the best aspects of both online and physical shopping.
To implement clicks to bricks effectively, it is essential to have the right point of sale (POS) equipment and software that syncs with your inventory. This ensures that what customers see online matches what they find in the store. For businesses selling online and in person, or taking pre-orders online for in-person delivery, clicks to bricks is the optimal way to serve customers.
Clicks to bricks allows online shoppers to visit a store or market in person, or to pre-order online and complete their purchase in person, all while managing sales and inventory seamlessly. This approach enhances customer service, as shopping for items like clothes, furniture, and food is often more enjoyable when customers can see and try products before buying.
The strategy also boosts profits, as some customers still prefer in-store experiences. During the pandemic, one-third of U.S. shoppers adopted omnichannel practices, and two-thirds plan to continue. Clicks to bricks has become popular as more consumers and retailers recognize the limitations of online shopping. Predictions of the demise of brick-and-mortar stores were premature, as in-person shopping offers unique advantages.
Physical markets appeal to customers who appreciate locally-made products and support small businesses. They are also more environmentally sustainable. Clicks to bricks enhances customer service and increases profits by offering a smoother customer service experience, allowing pre-orders for in-person purchases, increasing sales and profits, improving conversion rates, and resulting in higher average order values.
Implementing an in-person experience involves considerations like shelving, layouts, inventory management, and staffing. However, the right tools, such as a POS system that integrates inventory and payment processing, can streamline the process.
Square and WooCommerce POS are two solutions for managing in-person sales. Square offers a comprehensive business management platform, while WooCommerce POS is ideal for small businesses expanding into retail. WooCommerce In-Person Payments provides a simple solution for accepting payments and syncing inventory.
By adopting clicks to bricks, businesses can offer a seamless shopping experience across online and in-person channels, ultimately improving customer satisfaction and boosting sales.
