Enhancing In-Store Shopping: Strategies for Apparel Brands

Below are practical suggestions for apparel retailers to design distinctive and engaging in-store experiences that encourage repeat visits from customers.

Written by: Robert Woo, Content Writer
Edited by: Madeleine Anderson, Partner Manager

The era of relying solely on brick-and-mortar stores for clothing shopping is long gone. Today, apparel brands must contend with the convenience of online shopping from the comfort of one’s own home, courtesy of smartphones and couches.

As e-commerce and online shopping continue to surge, it’s imperative for apparel retailers to enhance the in-person shopping experience. Through innovative approaches and technology integration, brands can craft compelling and immersive experiences that foster customer loyalty.

This need is particularly pressing in light of recent consumer trends. Reports indicate a resurgence in in-store shopping akin to pre-pandemic levels. With more individuals seeking opportunities to shop in-person, it’s crucial for retail establishments to meet this demand and capitalize on the higher spending potential of in-store customers.

Let’s explore some actionable strategies to achieve this goal.

Establishing Personal Connections in a Digital Era

Enhancing the in-store shopping experience is crucial for apparel brands, and creating a positive first impression is key. It’s essential to cultivate a welcoming environment that resonates with customers, complete with approachable and knowledgeable staff and visually appealing store layouts.

Personalized service is paramount for fostering customer loyalty. Apparel brands can offer a range of tailored services, such as personal styling, made-to-measure options, and bespoke tailoring. Leveraging customer data from their CRM enables brands to provide personalized recommendations, delivering a customized shopping experience that caters to individual preferences. This strategy, known as clienteling, is experiencing a resurgence in the retail landscape post-pandemic.

Improving the In-Store Experience

Visual merchandising is essential for attracting customers and enhancing the in-person shopping experience. Apparel brands can captivate shoppers by creating unique displays, utilizing mannequins to showcase outfits, and optimizing store lighting, which has been proven to increase sales significantly. Regularly updating window displays to reflect current trends and seasonal themes can maintain customer interest and encourage exploration within the store.

A seamless checkout process is key to leaving a positive impression on customers and fostering repeat visits. Apparel brands should invest in efficient in store point-of-sale systems that offer multiple payment options, like Teamwork Commerce’s Point of Sale (POS) system. Teamwork Commerce’s POS system automates discounts, promotions, loyalty programs, gift cards, tax exemptions, and more, ensuring accurate transactions and enhancing the overall checkout experience. Additionally, providing services like complimentary gift-wrapping and implementing a loyalty program can personalize the shopping experience and elevate customer satisfaction.

Creating experiential retail spaces sets apparel brands apart and offers customers a unique shopping experience. This may involve incorporating lounge areas for relaxation, offering refreshments, or providing interactive areas for children to engage while parents shop. Apparel retailers are increasingly considering social media trends and creating Instagram or TikTok-worthy spaces to attract customers. By offering more than just products, apparel brands can cultivate an environment that customers genuinely enjoy and are eager to return to.

Embracing Innovative Technology

Cutting-edge technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have the potential to transform the in-store shopping experience. Virtual fitting rooms, for instance, enable customers to try on clothing virtually, eliminating the need for physical changing rooms. AR technology allows customers to visualize how clothes would look on them, streamlining the decision-making process and enhancing overall enjoyment.

Interactive displays and touch screens are also effective tools for engaging customers and elevating the shopping experience. These technologies provide product information, styling tips, and customization options, empowering customers to make informed purchasing decisions.

Endear’s clients utilize Shoppable Stories to deliver curated product selections to targeted customer segments. Given that 82% of shoppers use their phones while in-store, these mobile lookbooks enhance the selection process, guiding customers to items they’re interested in trying on.

Crafting a Distinctive Ambiance

To enhance the in-real-life shopping journey, apparel brands should prioritize captivating store designs that set them apart. This entails creating eye-catching window displays, incorporating creative interior design elements, and designing unique fitting rooms that leave a lasting impression on customers.

Hosting in-store events presents another opportunity to attract customers and generate excitement around the brand. Whether it’s organizing fashion shows, conducting styling workshops, or collaborating with local artists to showcase their work, these events add a special touch to the shopping experience. By sending out targeted email and SMS campaigns to announce these exclusive events, brands can ensure maximum participation and engagement.

In today’s competitive retail landscape, it’s imperative for apparel brands to differentiate themselves by offering an elevated IRL shopping experience that keeps customers coming back. By doing so, brands not only foster stronger customer loyalty but also establish a prominent presence in the constantly evolving fashion retail sector. Additionally, positive word-of-mouth generated from exceptional shopping experiences further enhances brand reputation and customer retention.

It’s time for apparel brands to elevate their IRL shopping game and redefine the customer experience. Fortunately, Endear is here to assist. Our CRM platform, centered around clienteling, has empowered numerous retailers to deliver personalized shopping experiences both online and in-store.

The collaboration between Teamwork Commerce and Endear presents a groundbreaking solution for retailers. Our joint solution delivers all-in-one clienteling on a mobile point-of-sale, equipping retailers with a flexible, in-store clienteling solution with powerful omnichannel capabilities. By seamlessly integrating customer data, personalized recommendations, and efficient checkout processes, retailers can elevate their in-store experiences to new heights, fostering stronger customer loyalty and driving business growth.