Can Brick-and-Mortar Stores Survive in the Age of Online Shopping?

• T-ROC Staff
• Jun 5, 2023
• 4 mins read

With the rise of e-commerce, brick-and-mortar stores seem to be losing out. We’ve all heard stories of store closings or seen retail giants like Sears struggle to stay afloat in the face of increased online competition. While it may seem as though brick-and-mortar stores are doomed to go the way of the dodo bird, there’s still hope for those who prefer shopping in person. In this blog we’ll look at how brick-and-mortar stores can survive and even thrive in an age where online shopping reigns supreme.

The convenience of online shopping has certainly been a boon for customers. With the click of a mouse, you can purchase anything from groceries to electronics without ever having to leave the comfort of your living room. But as great as it is to be able to get everything you need in one place, there’s something to be said for the experience of visiting an actual store. Shopping in-person offers customers the opportunity to try things on, ask questions, and consult with knowledgeable sales staff—all important elements that have been lost in the age of e-commerce.

Fortunately, marketers have recognized this and adapted their strategies accordingly. Some brick-and-mortar stores are offering in-store pickup options for online purchases or even integrating technology into their stores. For example, some retail outlets are using facial recognition software to greet customers by name or offering virtual reality experiences so customers can try on clothes without actually taking them off of the hanger.

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The VIBA platform from T-ROC is another innovative tool that can be utilized as an in-store totem that assists customers without having to wait around. It can directly connect you to Valerie, the virtual assistant, or a live agent. These types of strategies help traditional retailers stand out among their digital competitors while also creating an enjoyable customer experience.

But what about those retailers who aren’t adapting these strategies? Will they go out of business because they haven’t kept up with e-commerce trends? Not necessarily—there are still ways for traditional stores to compete with digital marketplaces like Amazon and eBay. The key is focusing on customer experience and finding unique ways to engage customers so they feel valued both online and offline. For instance, many brick-and-mortar stores are partnering with local businesses or offering rewards programs that encourage repeat visits and loyalty from customers.

At the end of the day, it’s clear that brick-and-mortar stores can survive in this new age of online shopping— but only if they’re willing to adapt strategically and focus on providing a superior customer experience every time. By leveraging technology solutions and engaging with customers through creative marketing campaigns, traditional retailers can find success even when competing against powerful e-commerce giants like Amazon and eBay. With these tactics in place, there’s no reason why brick-and-mortar stores can’t continue flourishing in today’s digital world!

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