Page 25 - March-April 2025 - REPORTER v2 - web optimized

he retail landscape is always changing,
Toffering opportunities for independent
retailers to stand out from competitors. In
2025, here are the key trends shaping the
industry and practical ways to improve
customer experience and your bottom
line.
1. Personalizing the Customer Experience
Today, customers want more than just
products; they want great experiences.
Personalization can help you do just that,
keeping customers engaged.
Know Your Customers: Independent
retailers serve a diverse customer
base. Tailoring your approach helps
you succeed. Contractors prioritize
efficiency, bulk purchasing options,
and reliable supply chains. Offering
contractor support, competitive prices, Strategic Store Layouts: Make sure tracking, automated scheduling, and route
and an easy purchasing process will help everyday items are easy to find with optimization make deliveries faster and
build loyalty. DIY shoppers seek advice, logical product placements and clear more reliable.
inspiration, and accessible product signage. For bigger purchase decisions, AI Visualization Tools: Let customers
information. Offering workshops, expert incorporate areas where customers can see how products like flooring, paint,
advice, and product samples and displays explore and engage. siding, or roofing will look in their space.
can help build their confidence and The immersive experience helps them
encourage repeat visits. 2. Investing in Smart Retail Technology feel confident in their choices and creates
Technology is changing opportunities to upsell higher quality
how customers shop and materials which might otherwise not be
how stores run. Using considered.
INDUSTRY PROVEN smart tech can improve 3. Creating Engaging and Interactive
efficiency and create a
FORKLIFTS smooth experience for Shopping Spaces
both staff and customers. Many shoppers need inspiration when
Electronic Shelf Labels making purchasing decisions. Stores that
(ESLs): Say goodbye to offer product suggestions and hands-

outdated paper price tags. on experiences will stand out and keep
ESLs update prices in real customers coming back.
time, reducing errors and Curated Design Collections: Make
saving time and labour so shopping easier by grouping
you can quickly adapt to complementary products and materials
market changes. into themed collections, such as “Modern
Advanced Inventory Minimalist” or “Rustic Farmhouse.”
Systems: AI-driven Interactive Showrooms: Building
inventory systems materials have evolved from commodity
help predict demand, items to a fashion category. Create
automate reordering, and spaces where customers can explore
track inventory levels the design trends and mix and match
in real time. These tools materials by creating hands-on spaces to
help optimize stock display exterior finishes, doors, windows,
levels while ensuring kitchens, flooring, and more.
operational efficiency. Partnering with Contractors: Become

Delivery Management the go-to store for contractors to bring
5,500 LB CAPACITY UNIQUE DESIGN DOUBLE REACH Software: Delivery their clients and finalize material
LIGHTWEIGHT - SHORTEST OVERHANG management tools make selections. Offering expert help and
transporting materials hands-on displays will not only ease the
888-557-2244 or 416-679-3838 to job sites easier. contractors’ workload but also improve
sales@bikboomtrucks.com Features like real-time client satisfaction.
41 Claireville Drive, Etobicoke, Ontario, M9W 5Z7 - NE Corner of Finch & 427
www.lbmao.on.ca LBMAO Reporter - March-April 2025 25