Casual News Now’s first retailer roundtable took place on Monday, and although the conversation is off the record, retailers in attendance agreed that it would be helpful to round up key takeaways and share them with the industry.
- Private sale events can be a huge benefit in times of low foot traffic. But they have to be done right. These types of events should be upscale and exclusive — they’re not your everyday discount. Partnering with vendors is the best way to make this effort worthwhile for everyone involved.
Shoppers will love the exclusivity and savings, retailers will drive foot traffic and get people thinking about outdoor furniture, and manufacturers will have retailers who sell out of their product. It’s a triple win. - Blogs have been useful in the past, but retailers agree it’s hard to find fresh new ideas, which has led them to abandon the blog idea altogether. Customer reviews have proven more successful, with some retailers turning their reviews into social media content to get more eyes on it. Others offer discounts on certain items when they bring in proof of a review.
The conversation also turned to reaching an older audience. While younger people are mainly on TikTok and Instagram, baby boomers and Gen X still use Facebook the most.
- With outdoor furniture, it can be tough to get repeat customers. Once they buy, they have everything they need. That’s where accessories come in. Follow-up communication should focus on accessorizing the outdoor room — smaller purchases but the potential to sell multiple products.
- Vendors who help drive traffic to retail stores through SEO and brand awareness with consumers are gaining traction. Companies with huge internet reach and strong branding, like Polywood and Outer, are helping direct traffic to local retailers who can sell and show them the product. Some of these consumers will come in looking for a brand they saw online and sales reps can step them up to premium products.
The next roundtable will take place on Oct. 1. To RSVP, email alex@homenewsnow and we will send a calendar invite.
