Online shopping is always evolving and expanding, and an increasing number of consumers are choosing to buy goods through their devices, and having them delivered. The growing success of online retail is making the running of a physical store more challenging for their owners. However, there are still plenty of customers who enjoy a trip to the shops to look and feel items and to purchase them in-store. Independent and artisan businesses are an appealing alternative to mass produced items found online, so there’s definitely still an opportunity for success on the high street. By ensuring that you’re proactive and implementing some of the following steps to the best of your store’s ability; you’ll have a queue of loyal patrons waiting to get in before you know it.

A Welcoming Exterior

If your shop-front looks unkempt and dirty, then it won’t be a very appealing option for shoppers to enter. Check that your paintwork is kept clean and fresh, and that any signage you have, on your building or on the street outside, is clear and clean. You want the outside of your shop to look as good as it does on the inside, as people will already get a sense of what to expect when they walk through your commercial doors. Pot plants, benches, and a roll-out covers are all excellent ways to adorn your store and welcome everyone inside.

It’s worth checking to see if the street your shop resides on is well maintained; see if the road and curb need any work, and ensure that road lights and signage are in good condition. A tatty pavement can make any row of shops look unappealing, and people will avoid walking or driving there in the first place. If you’re worried that the street outside is negatively affecting your footfall; speak to your neighbouring stores and organise contacting the right people to fix what’s needed.

An Appealing Interior

Ensuring everyone in your premises or store  are motivated and happy each day, will keep them smiling and moving around the space to complete tasks. If a potential customer looks through the window; they are more likely to be inclined to enter if there seems to be a cheery and bustling atmosphere. However, if the staff look unhappy, still, and bored; there will be a gloomy and awkward portrayal of your shop’s ambiance, which nobody will want to walk into. It’s worth getting your friends and family involved by offering them a discount is they come and visit your shop in their free time; ensure that they have a thorough look around at all your merchandise, and encourage people to touch and pick up items.

Constant movement within your shop will make it seem even more tempting to passers-by, and they’ll often pop in just to see what everyone else is looking at. If you have paperwork and admin to do; set up a suitable and neat space within your store to complete it in. Behind the cash register or a counter is an excellent place to sit and finish any tasks, so that you can offer your help as soon as somebody walks inside.