Introduction
Omni-channel retailing is focused on creating a seamless consumer experience for the connected customer who uses traditional and digital shopping channels simultaneously throughout the purchase journey. Whether it be an eCommerce website, a print catalog, or an actual brick-and-mortar store, the connected consumer expects the ability to pause and resume the shopping experience at different points across all channels. Customers interact with the brand, and not separate channels within the brand. In order to accommodate this new breed of highly engaged consumers and their shopping habits, retailers need to implement new supply chain and marketing strategies that take advantage of near real-time information.
The concept of omnichannel retailing involves reaching consumers wherever and however they choose to do their shopping. This means that messaging, branding, and ordering may be coordinated among cellphones, tablets, in-store displays and checkout. In marketing, omnichannel campaigns will reach across online, radio, TV, and newspaper messaging. In many cases, QR codes, internet links, social media outreach, and location-based cues may be used to keep consumers focused on products and services.
The research showed the three most important things shoppers required from an omni-channel retailer were the ability to return products purchased online through a physical store, being able to check in-store stock levels through a website and consistent promotions and sales online and in-store.
Where does Omni channel Retailing Help?
Accurate information allows companies to make better-informed decisions and improve the distribution process. In most industries, shaving a fraction off shipping costs will lead to huge savings and
References: 1)http://blog.atlasrfidstore.com/what-is-omni-channel-retailing#sthash.BEMoorWL.dpuf 2)http://www.omni-channel.biz/ 3)http://phys.org/news/2012-11-opportunities-omni-channel-retailing.html#jCp 4)http://www.indiaretailing.com/7/23/29/9141