Click & Collect: The New Win – Win Way To Shop

Many things changed for us over the past few months with the arrival of the dreaded pandemic.  We learnt to make banana bread and admire nature as we sat patiently through lockdowns and downtimes.  We learnt the difference between social distancing and physical distancing and Zoom, WhatsApp and Facetiming brought family and friends virtually closer. And we learnt how to be flexible and innovative when it comes to keeping retail business going with queues and sanitisers and flexi glass barriers.  We also embraced the ‘click and collect concept’ as never before.

What is Click and Collect?

This is hybrid shopping.  The shopper chooses an item from online shop, pays for it and arranges a time for collection at your brick and mortar shop.  Buy online and Pick up In Store.

Why do shoppers like it?

Even without the dangers of a virus being included in any transaction, click and collect was fast becoming a winning way to shop for a growing number of consumers.  It is convenient, quick and perfect for busy lives.  The added advantage over complete shopping online is that with the pickup process, there is time for customers to inspect the product before leaving the store, or at least the car park.   With today’s Pandemic restrictions, the click and collect process allows minimum contact with shop staff and with other shoppers.

Why do retailers like it?

Click and collect reduces shipping costs, staff costs and surprisingly increases revenue, as “buy online and collect in store customers” spend an average of 11% more than home delivery shoppers.  Stock is easily maintained as the website collates the numbers.  Shelves are not upset by curious shoppers and their offspring and generally speaking it’s a more organised way of selling.  In these difficult times, it makes the working environment a safer place for staff as interactions are to a minimum.

What is the perfect Click and Collect Experience?

• A website with ease of functionality. 

• Filtered searches and ease of payment. 

• A time and designated pick up point

• Parking places

• No waiting in line

How do I add Click and Collect to my Website?

There are a myriad of Click and collect software options that can transform your website in as little as 30 minutes.   From, clickandcollect.com to cybertill and zetes.com and hub-box.com.  It is best to read the review of each software before committing to a purchase. Companies like Qminder  offer a 14 day free trial so you can test drive before committing.   If you already use Shopify, click and collect software options can be added very easily.

Click and collect has found its way into the buying habits of the Irish public.  The Covid-19 pandemic did indeed teach us many things and among them was the value of time. This shopping experience minimizes transaction times, reduces the workload and saves time for everyone involved.  If you are not already converted, then take the time to offer a click and collect service to your customer base and enjoy the benefits.