The characteristics of a stationary store after the pandemic

The reorganization of many spheres of life due to COVID-19 relates as well to the stationary stores. What is the influence of the new safety rules at the concept design for a stationary store? We pay special attention to some selected aspects of this ongoing change.

It is difficult to determine explicitly how the stationary stores will function after the pandemic. The occurrences of the last 12 months have accelerated the ongoing process. The concept design of a stationary store as well as shopping according to AI tips and augmented reality – these are the topics that have been discussed in retail industry for quite a while already. However, the new safety guidelines and social distancing have definitely changed the pace of implementing them in the stationary stores.

Display of products in the store during the pandemic

Good layout of the shop space is the basis. However, when products are placed in the store, it is time to take further steps. Mobile apps come in handy as they allow you to reach the product you are looking for, but also the hand sanitizer dispenser. Apps navigating you through the shop are no novelty. Nonetheless, in the times of special safety precautions, apps can also help to maintain social distancing in the commercial space.

Concept design of a store during the pandemic

The process of store designing can be improved thanks to digitalization. It all starts with collecting data and consulting it with shop managers. The data helps with analyzing the effectiveness of signage, promotional campaigns or shopfront display in particular shops. The right use of technology allows fast corrections in online mode which is especially important when your freedom to travel may be restricted.

Employee online training and tutorials

The restrictions and new regulations mean the necessity for retail to train workers. What might become helpful in implementing the new rules of work is to train people with the help of augmented reality (AR). This form allows almost instant updating of the training material in the event of changes in the law and quick implementations of new rules. The AR technology also enables to limit the costs that are linked to traditional forms of training people.

Training can entail the new forms of service. For instance, there will definitely exist a need for extra tutorials about curbside delivery rules – a form of service that allows the customer to pick up the parcel outside the shop or from the car. The customer and personnel safety will be a crucial matter.

Internet of Things in the store

What we define as the Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of devices that are connected together and that can collect and process data, as well as exchange it. IoT refers also to the electronic devices used in stationary stores. The appropriate use of data in the IoT network results in less situations where touching of panels of devices such as tablets or other LCD screens is necessary. This will make the staff’s work easier and make it less stressful to them as well as the customers.

It seems that in the coming years sales in stationary stores will take advantage of digital facilities on a wider scale than it had been foreseen before. The approach to the safety matters of clients and personnel in the store has changed diametrically.

Our company follows trends and remains up-to-date with changing legal regulations in the era of COVID-19. Thanks to our technical and technological background, we had the opportunity to participate in the production of prototype stores and we have implemented many interesting commercial projects. From the very beginning of our company’s activity, we have combined various technologies and techniques, while working with many brands in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Despite the pandemic, we have successfully continued our work. On our blog, we will keep you up-to-date about forthcoming projects.