The British Retail Consortium (BRC) recently reported that UK Christmas shoppers are hitting the high street earlier than ever this year, providing a much-needed silver lining to the dark cloud that has lingered over the British high street these last few months.
Figures released by the BRC and accounting giant, KPMG, show that retail sales were 5.6 per cent higher this September than last year, as consumers started getting ready for the festive period earlier.
Retail in 2021
On top of this good news, PwC has predicted that most sectors, including retail, will return to growth in 2021. But, on top of continuing to focus on savvy digital marketing strategies and investing in e-commerce, how else can retail executives keep up the Christmas spirit and continue to look forward to a happy new year?
Here are four top tips for retail executives and directors to keep in mind when it comes to a healthy recovery of the retail sector for 2021.
Value for money
It is impossible to predict how the pandemic and Brexit agreements will pan out, however, one thing is for sure, value for money will continue to be at the forefront of consumers’ needs and wants. Discounts, offers and a continued commitment to providing consistent good value should be at the forefront of retail strategy for 2021.
Launch new incentives
Tesco recently launched its Aldi Price Match scheme across 500 branded and own-label lines in a quest to stay one step ahead of the competition and boost brand loyalty. Meanwhile, both Tesco and the Co-op have revised their membership schemes, offering loyal shoppers a host of attractive new perks.
Focus on customer loyalty
Clubcard holders are currently profiting from Clubcard Prices on around 2,000 products, meanwhile, the Co-op is treating its members to the chance to choose two personalised offers a week. Staying innovative is key, and as well as offering discounts, it’s important that the marketing for these incentives is on point to lure customers in.
Continued investment is key
Continuing to invest in e-commerce, in addition to click-and-collect and contactless home delivery, will remain key in driving growth and encouraging consumers to spend. Consumer behaviour has changed drastically and behaviours are continuing to shift, therefore in order to accommodate this, retailers must continue to adapt, too.