2021 has started with another UK lockdown and as people are staying at home we are seeing the continuation of an accelerating trend to head online for bedroom furniture shopping.
Digital sales have been growing steadily for a number of years, but Covid 19 has definitely brought about a dramatic increase.
Luckily, we have been aware and adapting to the trend for some time, so have been able to use it to our advantage. That said, we have learned a lot over the last few months and are continuing to widen our skills and knowledge of digital sales all the time.
As bricks and mortar retailers face enforced closures, we have some tips for adapting to selling online:
- Keep it simple. Think about a carefully curated, yet more limited choice for online sales, which makes the process easier for consumers and retailers.
- Use high quality imagery. Consumer expectations are harder to manage in a digital world as nothing quite matches being able to touch and physically experience a product.
- Use specific ranges online. Think about the balance between how much a consumer will realistically invest in an online sale and collections available and consider swapping out options to reduce costs.
As the pandemic continues, we are here to help all our customers and would urge anyone thinking about expanding their digital sales to give us a call.
Health and safety remains at the forefront of our thoughts through into our Home Delivery and Installation service too. All our teams are equipped with the right PPE and each fitter has their own jerry can, soap and towel so they can wash their hands regularly. All consumers are consulted on procedures in advance to ensure they are happy for us to proceed. Fitters and customers are empowered to call a halt at any stage if they don’t feel it is safe.
2020 and now 2021 have brought significant changes to the ways we operate, but I am delighted to say that we have risen to the challenges, adapted, worked together and are succeeding despite everything.
Stay safe.