The introduction of new technology has made Web-based purchasing more accessible and product information more readily available, challenging retailers to create a retail environment that is an extension of the Web experience, one that helps to enhance customer experience, strengthen brand awareness, and promote products in a way that has a positive impact on direct sales, according to Digital Signage Connection. For the full story, click here.
Editor’s Insight: Consumers are using their smart phones to shop, and all retailers, including vending operators, are affected by this change.
Vending operators lost a major portion of their “captive” customers years ago when the white collar and pink collar worksites began replacing blue collar worksites.
Now, the vending consumer can choose from a variety of meal and refreshment options with the touch of the buttons on his or her smart phone.
Vending operators will have to learn to integrate social media marketing into their operations in order to win their fair share of consumer purchases. Vending operators will continue to offer outstanding convenience compared to their retail competitors. But convenience in and of itself will not be enough to compete successfully in the new retail marketplace 07-27-12 By Elliot Maras
