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With so many businesses closing up shop globally and around the U.S., many people believe that brick-and-mortar stores are slowly becoming relics of the past. After all, the following businesses have been found in malls and plazas for decades, but have either closed completely or drastically reduced their locations in the past few years: Kmart, Sears, JC Penney, Macy’s, Toys R Us, Radio Shack, GAP, Payless ShoeSource. Though this might be a signal that commerce is moving in a different direction, it’s still too soon to say that all roads lead to the destruction of shopping as we know it. It does, however, point to the importance of eCommerce for any business, large or small.
Black Friday Still Reigns Supreme
Cyber Monday has become a major shopping event in recent years, garnering over $2.7 billion in online revenue in 2016. There are still plenty of people, however, who get up in the early morning hours on Black Friday and trudge out to the shops to find a great deal. In fact, physical shoppers spent $655.8 billion in stores during the 2016 event. This goes to show that brick-and-mortar is here to stay; but only if done right by offering the option for online ordering.
A Dual Strategy That Works
There’s no denying the ease and convenience of online shopping. Many people want the luxury of browsing in their pajamas without a salesperson in their face so they can take the time to make a decision. Technology has made it easier for consumers to find the product they want; anywhere, anytime. No one knows this better than Amazon, the king of online retail. But with the popularity of having a physical storefront, even Amazon has branched out to create actual stores where people can go shopping. The combination of a retail shop and eCommerce comes together in harmony, and any small business that wishes to succeed can learn from this strategy.
Reliable Credit Card Processing Increases Sales
Reaching a broad range of customers, both online and physically, is the key to increasing sales across the board. Different consumers want different things, and by offering both, your small business can run with the big dogs and acquire a diverse, and loyal, customer base. This is where having a reliable credit card processing company can help. Not only will your online payments be handled exponentially, but your in-store capability of accepting credit cards will also increase your sales. Few people carry cash with them these days, and everyone expects to have the option of paying with a credit card no matter where they go. Be sure to hire a professional team that delivers the best merchant services you can find so your customers feel secure and safe. In-store or online, that’s just good business.
