| Built-in loyalty rewards |
| Having the right business software can also assist those retailers looking to start a customer loyalty rewards program without becoming overwhelmed by having to manage all the details involved. These programs encourage customers to continue to shop at or use the services of a business associated with the program. Therefore, by choosing a point-of-sale (POS) system that can run a loyalty rewards program, every sale offers the opportunity for customers to join. Further, pool and spa businesses can run reports and market to those who have enrolled in the program. Gone are the days of punch cards. Today’s consumers want something that is easy and is connected to their mobile phones. With a built-in loyalty program, retailers can begin by giving a big “starting bonus” to everyone that made a purchase over a certain dollar figure the previous summer. When starting a loyalty rewards program, having the right business software is important, as the system can automatically assign customer loyalty cards to easily track and build the purchase history of customers. In fact, the loyalty card information can then be used to build additional lists for product, service, and installation promotions. A loyalty rewards program can be the perfect way to effectively retain customers who are continuously being lured by big-box competitors. Pool and spa businesses can even incorporate personalized maintenance calendars and chemical tip sheets to help increase customer loyalty. These types of handouts can help keep customers coming back |
Number four: Integration makes it easy
Incorporating pool industry software which integrates systems within a business, as well as with vendors and partners, is key to running a company more efficiently. Store owners should be sure to look for a software with the following industry-specific integrations:
Water testing station integration
Connects the business software with the industry water testing software for fast purchasing recommendations in-person and online.
Pool industry vendor integration
Eliminates duplicate purchase orders and input of inventory. Pool industry software directly integrates with pool and spa vendors and distributors with pre-programmed stock-keeping units (SKUs). It saves time with automatic pricing and inventory imports/updates.
Time to get “tech-y”
The aquatics industry is clearly embracing technology to thrive, despite labour shortages and uncertain economic times. It is now time for shop owners and managers to adapt this new technology to serve an already-existing customer base, as well as the many new, younger generations entering the market as first-time pool and spa owners.
Businesses should use mobile applications to make transactions and to stay in communication with their customers. Many applications are available through business software packages or as stand-alone tools.
Service technicians are also using mobile applications in the field to upload photos, equipment information, and other customer data for future reference, and integrating tools to help diagnose water chemistry issues. They even allow technicians to send messages directly to clients with recommended product purchases that can be made directly through the online store.
Author
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, Pa. With her technical skills and industry knowledge, she joined the launch of RB Retail & Service Solutions in Pittsburgh in 2003. For more information, visit rbretailandservicesolutions.com/pool-and-spa.
