As retailers across the country get the “Okay” from government officials to start reopening, they are now faced with another obstacle – safety. How can you help customers feel safe when shopping in your store? Customer and worker safety are still high priority as COVID-19 regulations become more relaxed.
Checking with state and local authorities is highly advised for location-specific mandates. However, we’ve put together a few tips to help you keep your staff and community safe, as well as successfully reopen!
ALERT – WE ARE OPEN FOR BUSINESS
Notifying your customers that you will be reopening is step one into kickstarting foot traffic. Share social media content, send out email blasts, offer in-store discounts. Share information about your sanitization efforts and how you will help customers feel safe when shopping. Post an image of an employee sanitizing, create a graphic with tips for shoppers to keep them safe, etc.
Safety tip: you can limit the number of shoppers in the store at a given time to promote effective social distancing.
STORE SANITIZATION
Since your store has most likely been shut for weeks, it will need to be properly cleaned. Cash registers, tables, handles, shelves, etc. Check CDC guidelines.
REDESIGN YOUR DISPLAYS
Give your customers something to look forward to. This is a great post to educate you on best practices for in-store retail design. It will help you catch your consumer’s eyes, display products better, and increase sales.
For materials, display fixtures, and merchandising solutions, visit our website. We are also offering a 10% discount when you use code SAVE10.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
Masks should be a high priority to keep your employees safe. Many states are suggesting shoppers wear them as well. Consider creating signage for your store to encourage shoppers to wear face coverings when shopping at your location. If you’re looking to take protection to the next level, you could provide disposable masks to your shoppers upon entry.
SANITIZATION RULES
Posting the hygiene rules for your employees can serve as a reminder of what needs to be done. For example, employees must wash hands with soap and water for 20 seconds. They should also use hand sanitizer after touching foreign surfaces or if there are money exchanges. Stores could also consider making hand sanitizer available to their shoppers.
SHIPPING
Continuing to accommodate those who are unable or unwilling to shop in-store is important. Retailers who don’t have e-commerce websites can still offer shipping and delivery services, especially if they are local establishments. Either through FedEx, UPS, or their own delivery service. These services can be free-of-charge or be charged at a set amount.
We hope these tips are helpful as you transition back into your traditional business environment.
Looking for assistance with one of our representatives? Contact them here.