The last two decades have seen an explosion of digital businesses across all industries. These innovative businesses have increased the competition for local businesses. If you run a local brick and mortar store, you need more creative ideas to keep the customers coming. One of the most overlooked aspects of customer acquisition is curb appeal.
Many local stores don’t work on their appearances as they believe customers will still visit. In today’s highly competitive business environment, improving your curb appeal can help you make the best first impression. This is the first step in winning over the customer.
This post looks at simple improvements you can make to improve your business’ appearance.
Rebrand Your Store
When was the last time you had a serious look at your company’s logo, colors and messaging? For local businesses, it’s easy to get comfortable knowing that customers can see your store. But with more people now shopping online, go to extra lengths to maintain a loyal customer base.
In 2020 alone, 2 billion people shopped online. A refresh of your brand’s look can entice more customers to walk into your store. Consider reworking the logo and choosing more appealing colors which still reflect your brand. Rebranding also signals a rejuvenated business offering better products and services.
Install Functional Hardscaping
How does your outdoor space look? If you have a wide space in front of your shop, use this space to add more appeal to your shop. Some ideas of hardscape that can transform your outdoor space include pavers, walkways, outdoor additions, water features, decks, and driveways. These additions revolutionize your business premises by offering unrivaled beauty, adding functionality, and making it easier to maintain this space.
For increased durability and functionality of walkways, sidewalk or pavers, consider adding rebar mesh to the installations. The reinforcement strengthens your walkways and driveways to support more weight and last longer.
Spruce up the Exterior
When was the last time you had a thorough cleaning of your shop’s exterior surface? With exposure to the elements, the doors, windows, walls, and roofs collect a lot of dirt and debris. These affect the outlook of your business and this is the first impression your customers get. Shoppers will associate your poorly maintained store with poor services.
You can spruce up your business store with high pressure cleaning, roof washing, professional wall and window, stain removal, and other such services. There are contractors who handle such work and they offer custom cleaning solutions.
De-clutter
What do customers see when they look at your business from across the road? Many local stores use every inch of space to advertise different products or services. While this might look like a good idea, it works against your aim to bring in customers.
For a shop front cluttered with products, signage, and other materials, shoppers will keep off. Cluttered spaces don’t reflect well on your store’s professionalism. Shoppers will look for a more organized store and they can see this right from the door.
Optimize Your Parking Area for Visitors
Parking is a major consideration for any local shopper. If you have enough space, create a welcoming parking area with an attendant to assist drivers. Make sure the space is well-lit and you have simple signage to guide drivers.
First impressions matter in business. These are just a few of the ideas you can use to improve your store’s outlook and attract more walk-in customers.
