Given the current restrictions regarding non-essential retail, “Click and Collect” has been one of the most popular methods for consumers to purchase these items remotely. This method of online shopping is not just for the large corporations – it can work for all sorts of businesses from cafes to gift shops.
The retailer needs an ‘online shop’ set up on their website. They set the price for item(s) to be sold. If there is a limited stock or the retailer only wants to allow a given number of items to be sold in a particular time slot, this needs to be set also. The consumer selects the item(s) to purchase and then proceeds to the payment page. Payment can be made using payment systems such as Stripe and an order confirmation is provided to the consumer containing the collection details. Whereas online shops usually charge a fee for delivery, in-person collection is usually free. The consumer then arrives at the premises with proof of purchase and the goods are exchanged.
We’re all hoping that the current restrictions will not be in place much longer, hopefully allowing non-essential retail to open soon. However, it is likely that restrictions such as social distancing (thus possibly limiting the number of consumers allowed on the premises at any one time) will remain in place for the time being. Furthermore, even in the event of the lifting of restrictions, there will still be an element of caution among some people who will still prefer purchasing items remotely. The more flexible your business is in terms of meeting consumer needs, the better it will inevitably fare in this uncertain climate.
