What a surprise! A new survey shows that online shoppers miss the personal experience of visiting a bricks and mortar store. And several forward-thinking luxury retailers like Chico’s women’s apparel are already working to add that personal touch.
Harris Interactive conducted the survey of 2,274 adults for a California company, IMShopping, a social media shopping firm, to measure how consumers feel about getting human assistance while shopping online.
Lisa Quall and Kelly Gasparich aren’t sure what business will be like when the economy rebounds, but they’re working overtime to make this challenging environment work for them.
A year ago, Lisa opened Elegant Clutter, a small boutique in Mill Creek, Washington, about 30 miles outside Seattle. Kelly joined her quickly and the two created a shop designed for women who enjoy making their homes beautiful.
Lisa and Kelly say much of the store’s success relies on attractive price points that encourage impulse-buying. They are determined to hold to their average price tag of $25 to $100 and rely heavily on IMAX products to do so.
The rain was threatening and I was in a hurry. Grabbing the pen and ready to sign the receipt, I was stopped when the shop owner asked to see some identification. I dug in my wallet for my drivers license and waited while he examined it.
Annoyed?
Well, I was for a moment, I admit. Then he smiled and said, “Thanks, we’ve gotten a couple of stolen cards in the past few months and we just decided to be more cautious. It protects both of us, you know.” Yes, I do know.
Fast on the heels of my column last month about a small-town newspaper’s efforts to help retailers comes news of a bigger effort.
It’s called 3/50 Project and it was created by Cinda Baxter, a gift and home retail consultant. News has spread rapidly throughout the industry.
The concept is simple: choose three local businesses you would miss if they closed, visit them and spend some money with them.
The best thing about Americans, I think, is our ability to pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and start all over again, as the song says.
Admittedly, that may seem pretty difficult in these challenging times. But I’m beginning to see and hear indications that there is more positive thinking out there – and more people deciding to actually do something, not just worry and fret.
Buyers came to High Point Market last month ready to buy, albeit sometimes in smaller quantities, and eager for interesting products.
While everyone admits traffic was down, retailers reported they were pleased with product offerings and are managing well back home.
At the IMAX showroom, business was brisk and customers were seriously shopping. The top 10 Best Sellers this Spring focused on getting a lot of “Bang for the Buck” with both contemporary and traditional statement pieces dominating the list.
IMAX Dallas Showroom Entrance
It’s market time again – and I know you’re ready with your list of needs and wishes, your open-to-buy numbers and your comfortable shoes.
There’s just one thing more you need to bring and this year it’s a bit difficult to find it. It’s a positive attitude. We all realize this is not a banner year and we probably won’t see much improvement until late this year or even 2010.
But where I live, the daffodils are blooming, Bradford pear trees are glorious and everything is turning Spring green. You just have to feel better, thanks to Mother Nature.
Consider my tip sheet to make a better market: