The brick-and-mortar business is more competitive than ever. Not only do you have to compete with other businesses in your area, but there’s an entire online marketplace poised to take your business.
Regardless of the convenience of online checkout, it doesn’t replace the average consumer’s love of shopping. They’ll still spend Saturdays milling from shop to shop, running errands and making impulse purchases. If you want to draw their attention, you’ll have to design a storefront worth visiting.
Improving your storefront’s exterior can help you stay at the forefront of customers’ minds. But you don’t want to overspend, so you need affordable ways to attract more passersby. Here are some cost-effective solutions that will make a huge difference:
1. Use Plants
Most storefronts are located in busy commercial districts where natural greenery is sparse. In many downtown areas, there’s not a patch of grass for miles. Whether they know it or not, your customers are drawn to plants. They boost a person’s mood and improve the air quality of your shop.
Plants are an excellent budget way to spice up any space. They’re relatively easy to grow and maintain, and you don’t need a ton of space to do it. You might put up a window box or put out planters. Try to choose drought-resistant plants or evergreens that will last longer than the typical flower variety.
2. Install an Awning
A flat storefront is boring. It has little character and dimension, nothing to draw the eye. You can remedy this with the installation of window awnings. Colorful window awnings snag the attention of drivers and pedestrians alike. They also provide shade and shelter for those walking by. You can have one installed for a few hundred dollars or less.
Although the initial investment is more expensive, you might consider a retractable awning. It can be opened and closed manually or electronically when needed. Retractable awnings significantly improve energy efficiency and protect your new installation during severe weather. Most store owners find it’s well worth the investment.
3. Add Night Lighting
Lighting isn’t as important during the summer months when the sun is out till 9:00 p.m. or later, but it’s essential during the darker days of winter. Unless your doors close at 5 p.m., your customers will have to walk from their cars to your door in the dark. It’s unsettling, to say the least, particularly if your store is located in a high-crime area.
Light posts and light sconces are pricier to install and maintain, but they’re among the simplest updates you can do to increase revenue. You won’t have to worry about losing customers because of unfit conditions in your parking lot.
4. Create a Window Display
Major companies like Tiffany & Co., Barney’s, Macy’s, and more often use lavish window displays to inspire and attract their customers. Their art goes beyond displays of well-dressed mannequins and featured products. Although you might not attempt such luxurious displays to protect costs, you can always use an affordable, yet innovative window display to your advantage.
Think like an artist. Place featured products in your window and decorate with a theme. If you’re struggling to choose a design, decorate with the seasons. You can’t go wrong with Easter eggs and bunnies in the springtime, for example. Passersby will be drawn to your window and won’t be able to stop themselves from entering your shop.
5. Spruce Up the Parking Lot
Potholes, cracks, trash, and puddles are common in parking lots, and they give the impression that the store isn’t properly cared for. While fixing every crack may not be feasible, you can address the larger issues, like potholes and safety hazards. You can also assign an employee or a member of your janitorial staff to keep the parking lot picked up and presentable. Power wash the sidewalks and lot several times a year to remove stuck-on gum, bird droppings, and other unpleasant stains.
Once you’ve handled the lot’s maintenance, add a little color and style. For example, you might hang colorful flags to draw attention or hang attractive signs from your light posts. You don’t have to pay to redo the entire lot when you can use a little creativity to stay within a budget.
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