What do you notice first when you walk into a retail store? For many, it’s the cash wrap, which is often the focal point of the store, an area store owners want customers to be able to locate easily and a section that takes up a lot of valuable floor space.
Something interesting is happening to the traditional checkout counter, though. It’s disappearing. New technology and a focus on the customer experience are changing the way retailers design their stores.
The Incorporation of Technology in Fixtures
Slots and openings are being built into fixtures to accommodate new technology. Allowing for improved customer service and customer experimentation. In addition to processing transactions and helping customers find items, technology also allows customers to experience products before purchase. Fixtures are built around encouraging customers to see, touch and use products.
The Disappearance of the Cash Wrap
Many retail locations, including the Apple Store and Nordstrom’s shoe department, have done away with the traditional checkout counter and instead rely on mobile devices like tablets to run transactions. Removing the cash wrap provides many benefits, including saving money on expensive checkout counters, releasing valuable floor space, allowing more creativity with design, reducing customer wait time, and improving customer service.
The Reduction of Inventory Kept on the Floor and In-store
Cash wraps are not the only floor-space hog in traditional retail. Inventory is a space sucker, too. In response to new technology and focus on customer wishes, retailers are reducing the amount of inventory kept in store, both on the floor and in the backroom. Customers want to try products and then customize them. They choose their color, model, and size and have it delivered to their homes. Best Buy has recently reduced its floor space by about half, mostly due to eliminating a great deal of inventory and providing delivery service.
The Emergence of the Lounge
Many Randal Retail Group's customers have recently incorporated some sort of lounge or another comfortable waiting area into their store designs. This customer-experience environment keeps consumers in-store longer, increasing their store loyalty and the chance that they will purchase more items. Lounge areas usually feature comfortable seating, products to try, technology to entertain, and charging stations.
As cash wraps and inventory storage disappear, fixtures morph and lounge areas emerge, having the right millwork vendor is essential. Choosing an experienced millwork vendor who knows how to adjust to changes and has the ability to easily customize to your specific technological needs and the desires of your target customers means you have the right supplies on time and on budget.
Is your retail business near to enhance its features to appeal to modern customers? Randal Retail Group can help!
