Mobile was often regarded as enemy of brick and mortar businesses. People would come into a store use their mobile to sometimes scan items and order them elsewhere. That was the story told by many brick and mortar businesses. This has changed considerably. Instead of fighting mobile, leading players in the retail sector have actively begun to embrace mobile and try to improve the customer experience.
In the US, Urban Outfitters has updated their iOS App for a slicker experience and added what is now considered a must-have: self-checkout. It has also added Apple Pay and to the App to streamline the checkout process. They also integrated what is called AfterPay. Customers can buy now and pay later in four equal payments made every 2 weeks without any interest.
Stance takes this even a step further: using Progressive Web App Technology customers just need to scan a barcode with a link and then check out using Apple Pay, Google Pay or a credit card.
These retailers are leveraging mobile to bring the online world to the store. Of course there are challenges – starting with the integration of PoS-systems and handling the expectations of the customers. But shoppers still like to go to shops. They want to have the convenience of the Web by not having to wait for the checkout and at same time the experience of the touchy-feely world of the shop. Bringing the two together makes perfect sense.
