Many pool service businesses agree that the pandemic has forced them to rethink the layout and design of their stores. As a result, savvy merchandisers are taking the opportunity to renovate their retail stores and retool their business procedures in preparation for what appears will be another busy year.
The slower winter months present a great opportunity to tackle major retail renovations to your in-person and online stores. In this blog, we break down a few changes you can make to better manage customers and improve the efficiency, productivity, and long-term profitability of your business – and why pool service software is a must-have to make these processes easier.
Renovate Your Pool Retail Store to Improve Customer Service
Begin preparing your pool and spa business for the new year by strategically renovating your showroom’s layout. While you want the space to feel attractive and inviting, ensure that it meets social distancing protocols and feels safe and comfortable for both customers and employees.
Here are our recommendations for improving the layout and operations of your store to enhance customer service and boost sales:
- Rearrange key customer areas: Keep safe, open spaces even when your store is busy.
- Get creative with display racks and chemical buckets: Use them to create social distancing barriers while maintaining a pleasant shopping experience.
- Digitize the sales process: Implement a mobile point of sale (POS) system so staff can serve customers anywhere in the store.
- Add mobile retail terminals: Use “Line Buster” features for faster service.
- Equip your team with tablets: Enable them to access inventory, customer profiles, process payments, and send receipts from anywhere.
Move and Integrate Your Pool Water Testing Software
Water testing is one of the most valuable services for pool retailers. The layout and efficiency of the testing area are crucial, especially during the pandemic. Many retailers are now offering outdoor water-testing drop-off and pick-up stations to minimize crowding.
Once samples are tested, staff can email results with product links for customers to order online. Consider upgrading your pool management system so it syncs with your water testing software for a smoother workflow.
Remove Clutter and Prioritize Products
Decluttering and prioritizing products help make your store more spacious and appealing. Use the reporting tools in your pool service software to identify high- and low-performing items. Remove products that don’t sell well and highlight high-margin ones for better profitability.
Retool Your Online Store
As customers continue to shop online, ensure your e-commerce store integrates with your management software for accurate inventory and payment processing. Use Online Bill Pay to make billing easy and secure. This reduces paperwork, saves labor costs, and improves cash flow.
Support your online business with email marketing, Cyber Sales, and curbside pickup options. Many retailers are turning their stores into mini-warehouses to fulfill online orders more efficiently.
Don’t Wait!
Strategic renovations and updated software will make your store more efficient and appealing. A clean, spacious layout not only improves safety but also increases customer satisfaction and sales potential.
