By Rachael Pritz
Pool and spa businesses are incorporating user-friendly technology tools to enhance customer convenience and help foster loyalty. Implementing in-store shopping apps, online payment systems, and loyalty reward programs provides uncomplicated technological solutions that customers find convenient. This not only sets one’s business apart from competitors but also positions it to thrive in 2024.
In-store shopping apps
Customers play a pivotal role in the success of a business, and providing them with a more seamless and convenient buying experience is a fundamental responsibility. Implementing an in-store shopping app can significantly enhance the ease of shopping at the store, serving as a key differentiator to drive increased sales in the upcoming season.
Within many business management systems, there are tools available for business owners to set up discounts on products, which are considered during the checkout process. Customers also have the option to store a standard discount on their profiles, automatically applied during checkout. Moreover, each transaction made through the app contributes towards a rewards system. To support business owners, many platforms offer online webinars and training documentation to ensure a seamless onboarding process.
Recent market research reveals a growing trend in the use of retail mobile apps by consumers while shopping in-store. As a result, in-store mobile apps provide retailers with the opportunity to interact with customers, improving the overall shopping experience, fostering customer loyalty, and boosting in-store sales. In fact, common activities associated with retail app usage in-store involve redeeming discounts, price comparisons, checking product ratings and reviews, and finding specific products.
As a result, this trend offers pool and spa retailers a unique opportunity to engage customers on a personal level through in-store mobile apps. Redeeming in-store coupons and discounts is one of the most widely used features by retailers, providing an advantage over big-box competitors. Further, sending push notifications about exclusive in-store discounts can effectively drive both foot traffic and sales. Retailers can also use in-store mobile apps to send targeted promotions based on customer interests.
As mobile apps continue to be a critical aspect of customer engagement in the tech-driven world, their popularity is expected to grow. Tech-savvy consumers, particularly those interested in luxury goods such as pools and spas, have embraced automation systems for their outdoor living spaces. Retail mobile apps empower customers to compare prices while shopping physically, making it easier for them to secure the best deals. Therefore, it is imperative for pool and spa retailers to embrace mobile apps, not only to facilitate customer engagement but also to increase sales and foster customer loyalty.
In-store shopping apps offer customers the convenience of “scan and go” shopping within the retail store. Consumers, in general, are accustomed to and at ease with mobile app usage, making it an opportune time for businesses to adopt this technology. Customers have the option to generate shopping lists and then scan the products they require as they navigate through the store. Some apps can sync with any discounts stored in the customer’s profile and can also be customized with special offers. All scanned items are quickly pulled up for payment at checkout, streamlining the shopping and payment process. This technology aims to make the shopping experience fast and hassle-free, contributing to its appeal and potential for building customer loyalty. A seamless and efficient checkout enhances the overall customer experience, encouraging them to consider returning in the future.
Technology opportunities in the buying process
When was the last time the business evaluated its customers’ buying process? Is the path to purchase optimized for maximum ease? If the answer is no, now is the time to explore technological solutions, such as the implementation of an e-commerce site equipped with a user-friendly online payment system.
Several integrated pool and spa business software packages simplify the process of setting up an online e-commerce store. This enables clients to conveniently order, pay, and co-ordinate the delivery or pick-up of their supplies through the online platform. A crucial aspect is ensuring the availability of an online bill pay solution to create a seamless and easy buying process for customers. The incorporation of online bill pay establishes a reliable billing process, allowing customers to pay bills, process credit cards, and minimize errors to ensure accurate end-of-the-day tallies.
It is imperative to confirm that the business software supports these online features and incorporates pool industry integrations. This ensures that inventory and delivery dates are accurate, meeting customer expectations effectively.
Positive relationships, positive profits
Businesses should consistently seek opportunities to establish and nurture positive customer relationships and loyalty. Customers are particularly drawn to rewards programs that offer benefits with each purchase, contributing to increased customer loyalty. Fortunately, straightforward technological solutions exist to establish and manage loyalty rewards programs, automating the tracking of purchase history, allowing businesses to identify loyal customers and those who may be at risk. This information can then be used to adjust marketing efforts accordingly.
‘Make it easy’ mindset
Embracing a customer-centric approach that prioritizes simplicity underscores the significance of adopting integrated business software tailored for pool and spa enterprises in the approaching season. The ability to streamline all facets of business operations contributes to offering customers an optimal experience, fostering lasting customer loyalty, and bolstering profits. In-store shopping apps, online bill pay systems, and loyalty reward programs are all accessible technological solutions that, when implemented, provide a convenient shopping experience for customers, ensuring a loyal customer base and a consistent flow of profits in 2024. S
Retailers can also use in-store mobile apps to send targeted promotions.
Rachael Pritz has been active in the pool industry for more than 20 years, which has provided her with an all-encompassing expertise in the trade. She worked at a local pool store while pursuing a master’s degree at the University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With her technical skills and industry knowledge, she joined the launch of RB Retail & Service Solutions in Pittsburgh in 2003.
