Shopping has evolved in the last two decades. You might not remember this, but there was a time when retailers or shopping stores only opened five days a week for eight hours a day, usually opening at 9AM and promptly closing at 5PM. There were even stores that took half day schedules once a week, for inventory!
The retail industry landscape has indeed changed. These days, retail shops are open all week, often extending beyond office hours. Competition has grown, making retailers more innovative with their offerings – sales, ads, promotions and many more.
Add in the presence of the Internet and the effect has been revolutionary.
The shift of power has been transferred to consumers. Shoppers now have a choice where to shop, what to shop, what time to shop and can even demand a refund if they are unsatisfied with their purchase. The Internet provides them a retail shop open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and gives them the convenience to shop in the comforts of their own homes.
This brought out the best of the retail industry. It has gone from a purely commercial service to a sophisticated experience with customers front and center demanding only the very best – the best items and the best customer service. Having more choices to choose from, retailers need to stay on their toes to be ahead of the game – and this truly made such a huge impact on how consumers view the shopping experience today.
There are now even online shopping catalogues with credit! It’s like opening a credit account at a store where you can shop for items and pay for it later, or pay it in terms with corresponding interest. Shopping web sites have truly made it easier for consumers. They give consumers a variety of options and eliminates their reasons not to shop.
Why not shop when all barriers have been taken off?
You cannot go to a store? Shop online!
You don’t have a budget for it this month? No problem – shop now, pay for it later!
Why not shop when all barriers have been taken off?
You cannot go to a store? Shop online!
You don’t have a budget for it this month? No problem – shop now, pay for it later!
With catalogue shopping making things easier, here are a handful of tips to be able to maximize your shopping experience:
1. If you are shopping for clothes, make sure you have your correct size. Compare your measurements to their sizing chart as it may differ from the usual sizing charts of other retailers.
2. Look for samples on how a certain dress or type of clothing looks when worn.
3. Compare prices with other web sites to check if you are getting the best deal.
4. Utilize the “zoom” button. Zoom in items you wish to purchase to be able to really see the fine details. If the online retail store doesn’t have that, it’s time to look at another web site.
5. Before checking out, search for coupon codes online. Most online stores offer coupons – and any opportunity to save more is welcome.
Shopping these days has never been so easy – consumers need to be discerning on how they choose to spend money on!
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