The countdown to the holiday season has started for retailers and consumers. Many independent retailers began preparing for year-end sales months ago to achieve maximum results. But now it comes down to creating a pleasant in-store shopping experience. Rather than relying on their points of view, retailers can gain insights from consumers. Eighty-three percent of shoppers say they will return to a store if they have a positive experience. When customers feel good, they want to spend time in the store and interact with the products and staff. Creating a sense of ambiance is even more critical during the holidays since shopping for gifts tends to be time-consuming and hectic.

Competition from big-box retailers can be aggressive during the holidays. While it’s essential to have a solid overview of the competitive landscape, success for Independents depends on identifying what your business does better than competitors and leveraging those strengths with consumers. Whether your brand is Walmart or Ace, consumers have certain expectations upon entering the store.

Deliver Above and Beyond Service
Most businesses would receive an A or B if customers could give the neighborhood hardware stores a letter grade. Why? Shoppers enjoy interacting with knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful staff. Some customers may feel a little stressed during the holidays and need extra attention. A well-trained staff is observant and knows when to help and make recommendations. Loyal customers are open to gift suggestions and product options they may not have considered giftable previously.

Add Eye-Catching Displays and Decorations
People like looking at colorful product displays that help them imagine how the product can enhance their lifestyle. While most stores may not have space for highly constructed displays, temporary modular displays (TDMs) may be the answer. These cardboard displays with holiday graphics attract attention and are a festive backdrop for gifts and decorative holiday merchandise.

The countdown to the holiday season has started for retailers and consumers. Many independent retailers began preparing for year-end sales months ago to achieve maximum results. But now it comes down to creating a pleasant in-store shopping experience. Rather than relying on their points of view, retailers can gain insights from consumers. Eighty-three percent of shoppers say they will return to a store if they have a positive experience. When customers feel good, they want to spend time in the store and interact with the products and staff. Creating a sense of ambiance is even more critical during the holidays since shopping for gifts tends to be time-consuming and hectic.

Competition from big-box retailers can be aggressive during the holidays. While it’s essential to have a solid overview of the competitive landscape, success for Independents depends on identifying what your business does better than competitors and leveraging those strengths with consumers. Whether your brand is Walmart or Ace, consumers have certain expectations upon entering the store.

Deliver Above and Beyond Service
Most businesses would receive an A or B if customers could give the neighborhood hardware stores a letter grade. Why? Shoppers enjoy interacting with knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful staff. Some customers may feel a little stressed during the holidays and need extra attention. A well-trained staff is observant and knows when to help and make recommendations. Loyal customers are open to gift suggestions and product options they may not have considered giftable previously.

Add Eye-Catching Displays and Decorations
People like looking at colorful product displays that help them imagine how the product can enhance their lifestyle. While most stores may not have space for highly constructed displays, temporary modular displays (TDMs) may be the answer. These cardboard displays with holiday graphics attract attention and are a festive backdrop for gifts and decorative holiday merchandise.