How Small Businesses can Compete with Big Retailers
When you first begin a new business, part of your planning should be to research your competitors. There are some huge names in all industries that you will need to compete against.
It can be hard to think of ways to stand out amongst these behemoths of business but sometimes keeping it simple is the best way. Here are some tips to help your small business compete with big retailers.
Personalised customer experience
One of the advantages of running a small business is the ability to focus on details. Chances are the owners do most of the work, or at least oversee production. This allows space for you to focus on giving your customers perfect service.
Here you can capitalise on your brand and build upon your values and ethos by communicating clearly with your customers at all times. This means quick responses to queries, resolving issues in a timely manner and even regular updates on their orders.
Cultivating a relationship with your clients increases the chances of them becoming repeat customers, who will likely sing your praises to others around them.
Niche products and specialty offerings
Large retailers often sell more generic products. This is where your business can offer something different and niche. If you are in the pottery game and make your own mugs, why not offer a personalisation service alongside this? You could paint specific designs or have mix-and-match shapes and patterns.
Offering personalisation can help people shop for the most discerning recipients, especially around birthdays and holidays. Running festive offers, for example, encourages customers to buy more with you as they can get everything they need in one place.
Personalised photo baubles are always popular, and you can run deals for discounts the more people buy. Getting an ornament for the whole family means a profit for you and a lovely memento hanging on many Christmas trees.
Flexible and personalised delivery options
Whenever you shop with a large retailer, shipping is pretty standard. One way to out-pace the competition is to offer different delivery options. If your business allows, you could offer same-day delivery or next-day delivery at a reasonable price.
Make sure you vet your shipping company thoroughly, though. You don’t want to offer these tantalising options and be unable to fulfil your obligations. Royal Mail, for example, are a UK institution but they may not be able to offer the quickest service.
You could also consider offering eco-friendly delivery options as standard. This could be in the form of recycled packaging or materials made from eco-friendly processes. Being aware of your business’s carbon footprint allows you to make changes that customers will appreciate. This helps to set your company apart from the big retailers in a meaningful way.
