Ecommerce is on the rise. For retailers this means increasing challenges around omnichannel fulfillment. For example, if delivery times are too long, customers will opt to shop elsewhere. Research from McKinsey shows that over 90% of US online customers expect free shipping within a couple of days. So what’s the answer?
One solution gaining popularity within omnichannel fulfillment strategy is in-store fulfillment, which involves using physical retail locations to fulfill online orders.
Among improved customer experience, there are plenty of other tangible benefits to an in-store fulfillment strategy:
In this blog, we’ll discuss each and how it can help retailers streamline their operations, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction.
Sometimes known as ship-from-store, in-store fulfillment is an omnichannel retail strategy that involves leveraging retail stores as miniature distribution centres. With this strategy, eCommerce orders can be fulfilled and shipped to customers from either the primary distribution centre or a nearby store. By implementing multiple stores as fulfillment options, retailers can alleviate some of the pressure on their distribution centres. They can also provide customers with access to more inventory and quicker delivery times, while giving them more options for returns and exchanges.
This is where the key advantage of the in-store fulfillment model lies; in its ability to boost the customer experience. Customers today expect flexibility and convenience. For example, 68% of customers reported convenient fulfillment options such as buying from one store, while collecting from another, were top of the list in their purchasing decision according to a survey by Newstore. Let's take a closer look at five of the other key advantages associated with in-store fulfillment.
When implemented successfully, in-store fulfillment offers retailers a range of benefits.
The Viare order management system is designed to help retailers achieve a streamlined and more efficient in-store fulfillment model. For example, retailers that are taking a customer-first approach are leveraging the power of Click & Collect, which gives their customers the option of only selecting items which can be collected today, i.e. at the collection store, or adding items which will be sent in for collection. The Click & Collect feature of the Viare solution is easy to use, which ensures staff can efficiently process Click & Collect orders for customers.
Viare keeps track of your inventory in near real-time and ensures you're able to present your customers with accurate inventory levels; i.e. you’re not promising to sell them something that’s not in stock. With increased inventory accuracy and buffer stock management, you can reduce cancelled orders and out-of-stocks, all of which boost the customer experience.
When successfully implemented, the in-store fulfillment model will help retailers streamline their fulfillment process, reduce transportation costs, and centralise inventory management.
Don't just take our word for it. Check out how Briscoes, Rebel Sport and Living & Giving are benefitting from harnessing the power of Viare's order management solution.