Have you installed self-order kiosks in your business?
Contrary to popular belief, in-store technology like kiosks aren’t inherently cold and impersonal. In fact, with the right approach, brick-and-mortar stores can achieve the opposite effect—and connect with customers even more effectively with new and innovative devices.
This blog post will explore how self-service kiosks can ultimately enhance the in-store experience.
We’ve touched on the benefits of self-service kiosks in a restaurant environment.
In a retail setting, kiosks—or self-service systems composed of a tablet or other interactive technology—have taken many brands by storm. Digital kiosks help to drive more traffic to the business, increase sales, lessen wait times and customer support expenses, and even capture invaluable purchasing data that can help companies optimize their sales.
Throughout, this tech helps to cultivate a modern user experience.
Similar to ecommerce sites, brick-and-mortar stores are installing kiosks to highlight their commit to the consumer, and to show empathy as the public regains confidence in physical spaces. Data compiled by Research & Markets shows that kiosks are increasing in popularity at a rate of 11.81% per year.
It’s simple, really: Retailers can infuse kiosks with their brand personality, strategically place the devices in a welcoming fashion around the space, and achieve an on-brand atmosphere that will fuel in-store retail’s comeback.
If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that we don’t want 100% digitalized shopping. Yes, the public wants access to efficient ecommerce, swift food delivery, and the convenience of online purchases—but people also value the in-store experience.
There’s something to be said for getting outside and engaging in some real, tangible shopping. But with aesthetics and service top of mind, retail tech has become more important than ever.
Fortunately, self-service retail systems like kiosks can help brands adapt to the times and facilitate an empowering shopping experience. They give consumers more flexibility, all while blending the power of online shopping with the immersive nature of physical retail.
Contactless technology has given the consumer experience a much-needed overhaul.
You see, tech-savvy customers deeply value interactive technology. Kiosks in particular offer ample opportunity to learn more about the brand, browse the retailer’s inventory, and even—in many cases—check stock at other sites so shoppers can access exactly what they need.
Take Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s as an example. In 2014, the retail giants installed sleek self-service kiosks in select locations across the U.S. These interactive tablets helped to quickly answer questions about in-stock sizes, color options, and even other customers’ reviews of specific items. They recommended pairings based on the items in the shopper’s cart, and offered a tailored experience that left shoppers coming back for more.
Talk about efficiency. And, speaking of the power of kiosks, German liquor store BASF began to incorporate self-order kiosks and RFID tags to serve as a digital sommelier. All consumers need to do is enter their wine preferences on a tablet in-store. The kiosk will then illuminate the bottles that meet the criteria they’ve selected, all while putting key details about the wine on display.
In short, this contactless technology is helping brands bring their unique personalities to light—all while embracing digital transformation and delivering the same convenience customers expect online.
But these aren’t the only benefits these systems bring. Here are five reasons to install self-order kiosks in your stores if you haven’t already:
Interactive kiosks can help retailers boost their sales by working alongside their associates. Though contactless systems can replace retail staff when needed, they’re designed to complement them more than serve as a substitute.
This translates to higher sales, as these systems provide the engagement and interaction customers desire when they shop. Rather than waiting in line to capture a busy team member’s attention, consumers can approach the kiosk, browse the retailer’s inventory and special offers, and reap the rewards of a mutually-beneficial relationship.
And now, some statistics of note: One study conducted by Olea Kiosks Inc. found that businesses with in-store kiosks can expect 33% more walk-in traffic, along with a 32% increase in sales. The return on brands’ investment can be pretty significant in this way.
Solid service and consumer trust go hand-in-hand. Self-order kiosks deliver cutting-edge service by giving shoppers instant access to information on the retailer’s products, offers, and recommendations. There’s a sense of transparency there that most find naturally appealing.
Not only that, but kiosks can be accessed as required to save the customer time—another characteristic designed to build trust. Most customers appreciate brands that go the extra mile in prioritizing their needs.
There’s also a sense of customers being invested in not only the brand, but in the kiosk itself. The ease of use these devices bring will engage the customer and increase their chances of making a purchase they fully believe in (and chances are, they’ll be back for more in the very near future).
Kiosks are programmed with consumers’ expectations in mind.
This translates to shorter wait times, both in line and while shopping. Though some customers prefer to walk through the entire store, others enter the space with specific items on their list and simply want to find what they are looking for.
This is where kiosks come in. They make it easy to browse a store’s inventory, and even check out right from the device. People looking to mitigate congestion and enjoy a quick and easy shopping experience need look no further than businesses with self-order kiosks.
Did you know that self-order kiosks help brands achieve better inventory management and greater stock efficiency?
From customer data to order history, they bring critical information to the forefront of the shopping experience.
This includes a number of unique and innovative features designed to analyze consumer behavior. By gaining a clear understanding of what’s most popular, retailers can glean important insights into how they can enhance their operations and provide a better customer experience.
Many customers think of kiosks as their personalized shoppers. The consumer experience is interactive, tailored to the individual in question, and designed to help people meet their needs—even if they don’t necessarily know what they’re looking for.
From shopping recommendations to suggested add-ons or accessories, the brand experience kiosks deliver is truly second-to-none.
You might say contactless systems help brands reinforce their unique voice and style, all while amplifying their commitment to the customer.
Now more than ever, consumers are bombarded with purchasing decisions. From ecommerce sites to brick-and-mortar shops, there are a number of opportunities to convert prospects into loyal customers—and installing the right tech can make a crucial difference at the point-of-sale.
From their ease of use, to the personalization and transparency they bring, self-service kiosks can elevate your in-store experience. Install them today, and your patrons will thank you for it. Your ROI will too.
Interested in learning more about contactless payments? Start your 30-day free trial with KioskBuddy today, or click here to schedule a quick call with our expert team.